Abstract:
Certain interactive role performance systems and methods are disclosed that allow users to select a role to play in a prerecorded video, such as a movie scene, and to replace an original actor of that role with the user's performance. In certain examples, the user selects a prerecorded scene from which a character has been removed and records his or her performance. The interactive role performance system can insert the user's performance in place of the original character, thereby creating the appearance that the user is interacting, such as in real-time, with the other characters in the movie scene. Moreover, systems and methods can further utilize background subtraction techniques to isolate the user image. In further examples, the recorded user performance is stored separately from the prerecorded video.
Abstract:
A credit card comprises a plastic layer, a processor, and a keypad. The keypad provides the ability to input a code (e.g., a personal identification number (PIN) code) to the processor as a part of validating the transaction. Illustratively, the entry of a valid PIN code may cause the processor to trigger an alerting device as an indicator to the merchant that the holder of the credit card is authorized for its use.
Abstract:
A credit card comprises a plastic layer, an integrated circuit (IC) holder for holding a removable electronic device (e.g., processor), and a means for providing power (e.g., a battery). The removable electronic device provides the ability to, at least temporarily, associate status, or promotional, information with the credit card for use in subsequent transactions. The status information is representative of, e.g., eligibility for a discount, preferred buyer status, etc.
Abstract:
According to an embodiment of the invention, a configurable merchandise display system comprises a base, a peg board associated with the base and a shelf. The peg board is configured to conduct electrical current and comprises a plurality of electrical sockets. The shelf is configured to be removably coupled to and in electrical communication with the peg board via at least a first and a second of the plurality of electrical sockets. The shelf is further configured to removably accommodate at least one product thereon, and to be in electrical communication with the at least one product. A controller is configured to control at least an electrical current flowing to and from the peg board and the shelf.
Abstract:
A proximity sensor for controlling a component that may be installed on a window, on an interior or exterior pillar of a vehicle, on a control panel or any suitable location on a vehicle or any other structure. The sensor includes a substrate and a conductive layer disposed on the substrate. The conductive layer is formed from a conductive ink composition with the conductive layer defining at least one circuit for controlling the component when a user is in proximity to the conductive layer. A protective layer is disposed over the conductive layer. At least one of the conductive layer and the protective layer defines a graphic formed through the layer for visual identification to the user.
Abstract:
A credit card comprises a plastic layer, a processor, and a keypad. The keypad provides the ability to input a code (e.g., a personal identification number (PIN) code) to the processor as a part of validating the transaction. Illustratively, the entry of a valid PIN code may cause the processor to trigger an alerting device as an indicator to the merchant that the holder of the credit card is authorized for its use.
Abstract:
The present invention provides a composite heating element suitable for heating an article when activated by a power source. The composite heating element comprises a first backing layer and a discontinuous circuit formed of a conductive material disposed on the first backing layer. The discontinuous circuit has terminal ends for electrical connection with the power source and defines at least one gap between the terminal ends. The composite article further comprises a second backing layer spaced from the first backing layer. A trace formed of a conductive material is disposed on the second backing layer. The trace is aligned with the at least one gap for forming a complete circuit when the first and second backing layers at least partially abut each other with the trace extending across the gap and contacting the discontinuous circuit.
Abstract:
In accordance with one embodiment, a sensor includes a fibrous region contacting at least two electrodes. The fibrous region has an electrically conductive coating. The fibrous region has a resistance and when the fibrous region is compressed, the resistance changes. In another embodiment, a method of making a pressure responsive sensor includes providing a compressible material, applying a conductive coating to the compressible material to provide a coated compressible material having a resistance, and placing the coated compressible material in contact with at least two electrodes, wherein when the compressible material is compressed, the resistance changes.
Abstract:
The present invention provides a composite heating element suitable for heating an article when activated by a power source. The composite heating element comprises a first backing layer and a discontinuous circuit formed of a conductive material disposed on the first backing layer. The discontinuous circuit has terminal ends for electrical connection with the power source and defines at least one gap between the terminal ends. The composite article further comprises a second backing layer spaced from the first backing layer. A trace formed of a conductive material is disposed on the second backing layer. The trace is aligned with the at least one gap for forming a complete circuit when the first and second backing layers at least partially abut each other with the trace extending across the gap and contacting the discontinuous circuit.