Substituting a finger for a mouse

Article Abstract:

Several companies patent technologies for computer input/output (i/o). DEC develops a system that allows computer users to input data by pointing a finger at the screen. The system utilizes a video camera to track the motion of the user's finger and converts the image to data that moves a cursor. To counter the intense resource needs of video output, the resolution of the image is very low, but sufficient to track movement. Researchers at Kurzweil Applied Intelligence patent a voice-recognition that could assist computer users who find utilizing keyboard input painful. The patented technology allows users to send route documents for facsimile transmission or photocopying via voice commands. Researchers at Syntellect patent an add-in board that masks the sounds of touch-tone pulses as they are transmitted by adding other tones. Previously, the potential existed for unauthorized individuals to listen into audiotex transmissions and intercept confidential data.

Computer peripheral equipment, not elsewhere classified, Computer networks, Column, Speech recognition, Digital Equipment Corp., DEC, I/O devices, I/O Device, Interactive Systems, Voice Recognition, Audiotext services, Audiotex, Kurzweil Applied Intelligence Inc., Syntellect Inc., SYNL

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Patents: eyeglasses augmented by computer

Article Abstract:

Optometrist Ronald Siwoff has received a patent for computer-aided eyeglasses that enhance the brightness and contrast of what the wearer sees. The glasses will be useful for those who have a damaged optic nerve. Ordinary glasses do not help such people because the problem arises from the limited light information that reaches the brain, and is not with the eye itself. The glasses use a high-speed microprocessor and miniature video system, much like computers used in colorizing black-and-white movies. The easiest function is sharpening the edges of objects by increasing the contrast. Sharpening detail by filtering out information that falls within a specified range of gray is a more difficult adjustment. The glasses will be tested by the University of Pennsylvania's Scheie Eye Institute in the second half of 1992.

Computers, Digital computers, Design and construction, Product introduction, Eye, Eyeglasses, Vision, Products, New Technique, Siwoff, Ronald

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After court rebuke, Refac hints at a retreat on suits

Article Abstract:

Refac Technology Development Corp has attracted attention in past years by charging that various other companies have violated Refac's basic patents. Refac has claimed rights over technologies that have included liquid crystal displays (LCDs), automated bank teller machines (ATMs), spreadsheet software and videocassette recorders. After a rebuke from a Federal appeals court, Refac has apparently changed its policies. Refac pres Eugene M. Lang says he disagreed with licensing and litigation policies of Philip Sperber, who had been in charge of Refac's licensing division. Sperber died in Dec 1989.

Computer and Office Equipment, Management, Cases, Patents, Computer Industry, Court Cases, Lang, Eugene M., Refac Technology Development Corp., REFC

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