Abstract: In a bill delivery and payment system, users (100) are able to access a server computer (160) on a communications network (110) to obtain bill information and pay bills. For example, such a communications network (110) may be the Internet or the World Wide Web thereof. Using a personal computer (100), a user can access a Web site provided by the server computer (160) to view the bill information and instruct the server computer (160) as to the details of the bill payment. In a second embodiment, without visiting the web site, users are provided with electronic bills containing bill information in the form of electronic mail (e-mail) at their e-mail addresses. After opening an electronic bill, a user can make the bill payment by replying to the electronic bill.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for closed loop, automatic processing a loan, including completion of the application, underwriting, and transferring funds, includes use of a programmed computer to interface with an applicant, obtain the information needed to process the loan, determine whether to approve the loan, and effect electronic fund transfers to the applicant's deposit account and arrange for automatic withdrawals to repay the loan. Information is received from the applicant preferably by using voice recognition technology but alternatively by entering the alpha-numeric information using a personal computer keyboard or using the buttons on a telephone. The loan approval determination is made using a neural network with input obtained in part from the applicant and in part from databases accessed by the computer, such as a credit bureau, to obtain a credit report. The loan agreement is transmitted by facsimile to and from the applicant when the applicant has access to a facsimile machine or datafile to be printed or to an agent who delivers the agreement to the applicant when the applicant does not have access. In a preferred embodiment, the applicant accesses the computer from a kiosk where the complete transaction can take place as the applicant waits.

Abstract: A computer device and method for encoding a message corresponding to an outcome of a computer game, and a computer device and method for decoding the message to detect a fraudulent outcome. The computer device used to generate the encoded message includes (1) a memory device containing encoding control code and (2) a processor configured to process the encoding control code in conjunction with a computer game outcome to generate an encoded message containing the computer game outcome and to transmit the encoded message to a human-readable output device, such as a display device. The computer device includes various tamper resistant or tamper evidence features. A secure module containing the processor and memory is used to plug into an existing personal computer or dedicated game device. The device also includes a system for metering use of a computer game. The method for encoding the message includes the steps of executing a computer game program to generate a computer game outcome, encoding the computer game outcome to generate an encoded message, and providing the encoded message to a user, who may then transmit the encoded message to a device configured for decoding the encoded message to reveal the computer game outcome. A second central or host computer device is used to decode the encoded message. The second computer device has (a) a memory device containing decoding control code and an encoded message corresponding to a computer game outcome and (b) a processor configured to process the code to decode the encoded message to reveal the computer game outcome.

Abstract: The present invention is an interactive computer system which may operate on a computer network. Subscribers interact with a fully interactive programthrough the use of input devices and a personal computer or a television. The multiple video/audio datastreams may be received from a broadcast transmission source or may be resident in local or external storage. In response to user inputs, a personalized graphics, video and/or audio presentation is provided to the user either immediately or at a later time. If not presented immediately, the interactive computer system utilizes "trigger points" to determine when to enable multiple multimedia segments during the show. The CPU uses embedded or stored authoring commands for integrating the various multimedia elements. The interactive multimedia computer enables seamless flicker-free switching from one signal to another on the same or different channels.

Abstract: The subject system measures and reports the use of a personal computer by a user through a log file (11). The log file (11) includes entries corresponding to predetermined events and can report on the applications used and communication functions engaged in by the user. The log files (11) from one or more computers may be assembled and analyzed in order to ascertain computer use habits for computer software, computer hardware and computer communications. The system may also be used to predict computer use trends and to represent computer use history.

Abstract: A remote gaming system whereby a player can gamble against a wagering establishment or state-run lottery from a remote location on a personal computer or portable computer device where it is unnecessary to establish an on-line connection with a host computer associated with the wagering establishment, the gaming computer having associated gaming software for providing at least one wagering opportunity and enabling the player to obtain gambling credit and cash-out any resulting winnings, the host computer enabling the player to purchase and redeem gambling credit at the remote location in one embodiment of the invention using cryptographic protocols such as through a series of authenticatable message exchanges between the player and the wagering establishment, the gaming computer and the host computer directly on-line, or the gaming computer having a detachable tamper-resistant or tamper-evident credit module associated therewith or for use with a personal computer being provided to the player with preinstalled or preloaded gambling credit, the gaming system also enabling participation in future events of which the outcome is uncertain such as, for example, a lottery whereby the player makes selections on a gaming computer at a remote location.

Abstract: An electronic auction and motor vehicle auction information system allows remote users to interactively participate in motor vehicle auction sales of motor vehicles using a personal computer. Additional user applications associated with the system permit users to access and search a system database and display data about motor vehicle auction dates and locations, vehicle inventory, industry news, and vehicle sales history.

Abstract: An entertainment system has a personal computer as the heart of the system with a large screen VGA quality monitor and a radio frequency remote control device. The remote control device has a pointing device and a plurality of keys on top of the device and a trigger-like button mounted on the bottom of the device which functions as a mouse selection button.

Abstract: A sports computer having an integral global satellite positioning (GPS) receiver and computer interfacing capability enables functional and/or performance characteristics to be tracked and analyzed as a function of geographical position and/or elevation. The computer includes mounting means and/or interfaces to one or more sensors to measure operational and/or physiological parameters such as heart rate, or weather conditions such as temperature. Means are provided for downloading the stored geographical and sensor parameters to an external personal computer so that the data collected during a workout may be reviewed and analyzed on the screen of the PC. Preferably, map data may also be stored enabling the collected data to be viewed relative to the map information, for example, in superposition.

Abstract: A system for dispensing and redeeming the electronic discount coupons. The system includes a personal computer (PC) having hardware and software for receiving an electronic coupon from the system of computer networks, translating the received coupon into a binary format, and sending the binary-formatted coupon to a card-writing device. The card-writing device writes the coupon data onto a portable customer card ("smart card") approximately the size of a credit card. Subsequently, the customer goes to the store with the card. Upon completion of shopping, the customer redeems the electronic coupons at the checkout area, by inserting the card into the checkout station. During checkout, the customer is credited with the value of a coupon when UPC data from a bar code reader corresponds to a coupon stored on the card.

Abstract: The orientation of the lumbar facet joints was studied with magnetic resonance imaging in 140 subjects to determine if there is an association between facet tropism and intervertebral disc disease or between the orientation of the facet joints and degenerative spondylolisthesis. The 140 subjects were divided into four groups: sixty-seven asymptomatic volunteers, forty-six of whom did not have a herniated disc on magnetic resonance scans (Group I) and twenty-one who did (Group II); forty-six symptomatic patients who had a herniated disc confirmed operatively (Group III); and twenty-seven patients who had degenerative spondylolisthesis at the interspace between the fourth and fifth lumbar vertebrae (Group IV). Axial scans were made at each lumbar level and digitized, and the facet joint angle was measured by two independent observers with use of image analysis software in a personal computer. The technique of measurement of the facet angles on magnetic resonance scans was validated with a subset of subjects who also had computed tomography scans made. Similar values were obtained with the two methods (r = 0.92; p = 0.00001). For the forty-six asymptomatic volunteers who did not have a herniated disc on the magnetic resonance scans (Group I), the median facet tropism was 5 to 6 degrees and was more than 10 degrees in 24 per cent (eleven) of the subjects. There was no association between increased facet tropism and disc degeneration. At the level of the fourth and fifth lumbar vertebrae, the median facet tropism was 10.3 degrees in the symptomatic patients who had a herniated disc at the same level and 5.4 degrees in the asymptomatic volunteers (Group I) (p = 0.05). The mean orientation of the lumbar facet angles relative to the coronal plane was more sagittal at all levels in the patients who had degenerative spondylolisthesis. The greatest difference was at the level of the fourth and fifth lumbar vertebrae (p = 0.000001). The mean facet angle was 41 degrees (95 per cent confidence interval, 37.6 to 44.6 degrees) in the asymptomatic volunteers and 60 degrees (95 per cent confidence interval, 52.7 to 67.1 degrees) in the patients who had degenerative spondylolisthesis. Furthermore, both the left and the right facet joints were more sagittally oriented in the patients who had degenerative spondylolisthesis. An individual in who both facet-joint angles at the level of the fourth and fifth lumbar vertebrae were more than 45 degrees relative to the coronal plane was twenty-five times more likely to have degenerative spondylolisthesis (95 per cent confidence interval, seven to ninety-eight times). The increase in facet angles at levels other than that of the spondylolisthesis suggests that increased facet angles represent variations in anatomy rather than a secondary result of spondylolisthesis.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for updating a memory in a Compact Disc changer Information identifying discs stored in a CD changer is stored in a memory The memory is updated when a CD is loaded which does not have identifying features which are recognized by the CD changer Updating is carried out via a modem connection to a remote database The database can be stored locally in a local database residing in a personal computer where the database can be queried to locate desired tracks and can be used to facilitate control of the compact disc changer by providing a simplified interface for building a play list and the like

Abstract: The three major components of a Fourier-transform ion cyclotron resonance (FT-ICR) mass spectrometer include the vacuum system (including ion source), the magnet and a data system capable of performing the necessary instrument control for desired experiments. Most previous FTICR systems have used commercial data systems based on custom-built electronics controlled by proprietary mini-computers developed in the early 1980's. Here we present a high-performance data system based on a personal computer running user-friendly Windows software and readily available commercial components contained in a VXI chassis and a minimal complement of simple custom electronics. The system uses a VXI pattern generator to control all aspects of the experiment. The flexibility of the pattern generator allows for performance of all current FTICR experimental sequences.

Abstract: A system for communicating with a card distribution center for selecting, ordering, and sending social expression cards using a personal computer. The user can enter names and addresses of card recipients into the system wherein the information is maintained in a database. The system displays digitized images of the cards on a display screen which are retrieved from a card database. From the cards displayed, the user can select cards for designated recipients and enter personalized messages and a digitized signature. The user may then send the order to a card distribution center, which processes the order, retrieves and prints the selected card images, including any user messages or user signature, and mails the cards to designated recipients or customers. The system maintains a database of all recipients, addresses, associated occasions and dates, card preferences, relationships and order history.

Abstract: DESPITE THE RECENT DRAMATIC TRENDS IN THE DIFfusion of information technology, the significance of these developments is still not clear. Also lacking is a critical understanding of these developments and a sound theoretical and empirical base from which to observe and analyze them. Supporting such an analysis, this article raises both empirical and theoretical concerns in an attempt to capture the structure and dynamics of computer adoption and use in the home. Computers and Other Interactive Technologies for the Home A l l a d i V e n k a t e s h

Abstract: An electronic coupon distribution system providing on-line coupon information for a potential consumer using a personal computer connected to a host computer. A potential consumer using a personal computer and a modem connects to a host computer via the Internet or directly. The potential consumer may specify product preferences or search and view coupons of interest to the consumer. The consumer may then download from the host computer coupon information that may be printed on the potential consumer's printer connected to his personal computer. Information identifying the downloaded coupon is coded or encrypted onto the printed coupon to prevent unauthorized reproduction. The coupon distribution system may be used to obtain additional information about the potential consumer for future marketing purposes. The present invention greatly facilitates and makes economical distribution of coupons or certificates.

Abstract: A movement skills assessment system (10) without a confining field includes a wireless position tracker (14, 16) coupled to a personal computer (22) and viewing monitor (28) for the purpose of quantifying the ability of a player to move over sport specific distances and directions. The monitor displays a computer-generated virtual space (30) which is a graphic representation of a defined physical space in which the player moves and the current position of the player. Interactive software displays a target destination distinct from the current position of the player. The player moves as rapidly as possible to the target destination. As the movement sequence is repeated, performance-related parameters including quickness, heart rate activity as related to physical activity, consistency of maintaining a set position, and energy expenditure are measured. The system has applications in sports, commercial fitness and medical rehabilitation.

Abstract: The invention encompasses a system that utilizes radio frequency circuitry in combination with microprocessor devices and specially designed software to provide an improved structure and operation for the monitoring, protection and control of inventory assets. Generally, the system is embodied in a system controller unit, one or more interrogator devices and multiple transponder units. The system controller unit may be a personal computer (PC) based device for effecting the control and monitoring of the system's operation. In addition, the system controller unit serves as a data collection device and as an alarm device. The interrogator device(s) incorporate a transceiver controlled by microprocessor circuitry within the interrogator devices. The transponder units also include a radio transceiver and microprocessor circuitry. The transponder units are attached to a container or item to be monitored and protected. The microprocessor circuit and the memory therein store the transponder identification code and can also contain data on the contents or nature of the container/item to which it is attached. When a transponder receives a RF signal from an interrogator device containing a correct transponder identification code, the transponder unit is enabled for receiving and processing messages. The transponder unit may also respond by sending out its own RF signal which contains an acknowledgment and all available data as requested by the interrogator device.

Abstract: A method and apparatus is provided for a search system based in software running on a personal computer. The personal computer is housed in a kiosk having a touch monitor and a printer. With the search system, selection features are selected and a search based upon these search features is performed. Each item in a database is examined to determine if an item has a given search feature. These search features are categorized into primary and non-primary search features. Items neither satisfying nor closely satisfying a given primary search feature are eliminated from the search. In contrast, items not satisfying a given non-primary feature may remain in a search pool. For both primary and non-primary features, if an item in a database is an exact match to a given search feature, then that item is assigned full points. If an item closely satisfies the search feature then that item is assigned full or partial points. After completion of comparing each primary and non-primary search features with each item in the search pool, predetermined number of items remaining in the search pool with the highest total points are displayed to the user of the search system.

Abstract: This paper evaluates the sources of transitory market power in the market for personal computer (PCs) during the late 1980s. Our analysis is motivated by the coexistence of low barriers to entry into the PC industry and high rates of innovative investment by a small number of PC manufacturers.

Abstract: Hot dry rock geothermal energy extraction experiments in artificial reservoirs created by hydraulic stimulation in naturally fractured crystalline rocks have been undertaken in several countries over the last 20 years. The experiments have had mixed results in terms of fluid recovery, system impedance, and heat extraction. Numerical models have not yet delivered a generally agreed understanding of the processes and sensitivities involved in reservoir creation and circulation. In this paper a two-dimensional fracture network model is described, which attempts to address the problems of both reservoir creation and circulation using rock mass characterization and in situ stress data as the primary inputs with a view to encapsulating our present understanding of how such systems work. The model is a prototype for a three-dimensional version currently under development and is intended mainly for engineering sensitivity studies. The basis of the model lies in approximations of fracture mechanical behavior drawn from the rock mechanics literature, a very simplified analysis of the operative physical processes, and mapping of the connectivity of fracture networks to a fine resolution regular grid. Taken together, these permit the approximate resolution of what is normally a supercomputer problem on a personal computer. The model is applied to field data gathered at Fenton Hill, New Mexico; Hijiori, Yamagata Prefecture, Japan; and Rosemanowes, Cornwall, England.

Abstract: An ultrasonic diagnostic imaging system is provided with a personal computer platform which processes digital echo signals and produces ultrasonic image signals for display. The expansion bus structure of the personal computer platform accommodates ancillary processors such as beamformer cards, digital signal processing cards, video cards, and network cards which may be necessary or desirable for the ultrasound system. In a preferred embodiment the digital signal samples produced by a beamformer connected to the expansion bus are processed for display by software executed by the CPU of the personal computer platform. A preferred software architecture for the personal computer based ultrasound system consists of multiple object oriented software tasks, executing under a realtime, multitasking operating system which is both efficient and robust. Performance upgrades of the entire ultrasound system are effected by simple replacement of the CPU with a higher performance CPU, thus providing continual ultrasound system performance improvements in consonance with the evolution of personal computer CPU technology.

Abstract: The mouse of the computer is equipped with a reader of an access code located in one or a set of chipcards for users. The reader is connected to an antenna equipping the mouse so that the user has only to present his card to the mouse inside the influence zone of the antenna for obtaining that the access code is transmitted to the computer and that the security device rendering the computer inoperant is unlocked.

Abstract: A system and method for transmitting aural signals across a wide area network (WAN) from a local phone coupled to a computer, e.g., a PC-phone, to a remote phone coupled to a KTS, PBX, or PSTN, for example. This capability is provided by the gateway unit of the present invention. The system of the present invention is quickly installed in a server or a personal computer coupled to a local area network. The system is connected to one or more of a PSTN, a private branch exchange, a key telephone system, a telephone, a facsimile machine, and a modem. In the case of voice transmission, a gateway unit translates received telephony signal into a format that is compatible with the telephone system or equipment connected thereto. The present invention can provide a voice quality that approaches, equals, or exceeds the voice quality of conventional telephone switched networks. This high voice quality is achieved by utilizing a high quality voice digitization algorithm on both the PC-phone and the gateway, by ensuring a low maximum network delay between the PC-phone and the gateway, by permitting a dynamic compensation for variations in network delay, and by utilizing a forward error correction technique for transmission over WANs that can recreate lost or delayed signals in a manner that recreates the signal so the lost signal is typically not detectable by a user.

Abstract: A remote learning system combines on-line service information and remote user information with a television signal designed to be received by students using multimedia personal computers The combined signal is then transmitted to all of the students at their personal computers At each personal computer, the received signal is separated into its component parts by a VBI modem for display or control on/of the personal computers Each personal computer is capable of communicating back to a main server over a network such as a public telephone network A broadcasting facility integrates the information transmitted over the network from a single student with the television signal

Abstract: In a graphical user interface (GUI) for a personal computer system, an improved method and apparatus for accessing and executing commands associated with user applications. In addition to the standard menu categories of a menubar and control icons of a tool bar, the present invention provides a "hyperbutton", a "context sensitive pop-up menu" and a "menu control editor". A hyperbutton displays, in a persistent subview, a user selected default hyperitem from the hyperitems of the menubar. The default hyperitem is automatically executed when selected by the user with a mouse. The hyperbutton displays a title of the default hyperitem. The user can change the default hyperitem using a pop-up menu displayed in response to an interface command such as a right mouse button. A context sensitive pop-up menu is associated with a particular object such as a grid subview. The user configures the context sensitive pop-up menu to contain a custom set of the hyperitems associated with the object. A hyperitem editor allows the user to configure the hyperbutton and context sensitive pop-up menu by defining the associated hyperitems and their attributes.

Abstract: An automatic software updating method in a communication network including a host computer, a plurality of branch processing computers each connected to the host computer for serving as servers, and a plurality of personal computers connected to a corresponding branch processing computer is provided. The method includes the steps of: (a) uploading a new software together with a version-up table including a version code to the host computer; (b) downloading the version-up table uploaded in step (a) to the branch processing computer; (c) determining whether to download the software using the version code of the version-up table downloaded in step (b); (d) downloading the software according to the result of step (c); and (e) installing the software downloaded in step (d) in the personal computer. Therefore, an out-of-date software of computer systems dispersedly arranged in the network can be automatically updated by a partially corrected or newly developed software.