Imagined in the 1970s

A small prize. Breathable air is essential aboard, but this is a fitting inside a craft or suit, not an industry of its own.

Who is paid. Ship operators pay for it within the craft, and the established builders of ships and suits supply it because the method is easy to copy.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is fairly sure of this one.

A small prize. Unlike a launch track open to all cargo, this is a landing aid built into a lone giant structure.

Who is paid. Whoever pays for the great structure pays for this, assumed to be a government, and its established builders supply it.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is not very sure of this one.

No prize. As described it is a layout of worlds, not a thing made or sold; if the story means the worlds were moved into place, it would be judged as a built world instead.

Who is paid. Nothing is sold, so nobody pays and no seller collects.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is not very sure of this one.

A vast prize. A band around a star with far more room than any planet would add living room for a large share of humanity.

Who is paid. No private buyer could fund a world, so a government pays and the large builders that already hold public works contracts collect.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is not very sure of this one.

A small prize. Shades that give a built world day and night are a part of that giant structure, not a product of their own.

Who is paid. Whoever pays for the great structure pays for this, assumed to be a government, and its established builders supply it.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is not very sure of this one.

A large prize. Flinging or pushing payloads to space without big rockets would change the cost of the whole launch industry.

Who is paid. Firms with cargo to launch pay, and since others could build such works the gain goes to those who already own launch sites and power.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is fairly sure of this one.

A small prize. A suit that keeps a person alive in vacuum or thin air is vital to its wearer but serves only the few who work in space.

Who is paid. Space operators buy suits for their crews, and the few firms that already make such gear supply them since the design can be copied.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is fairly sure of this one.

A small prize. It adds to knowledge of the sky but yields nothing to sell, so its worth is limited to science.

Who is paid. Nobody could be charged for what it learns, so a government pays the instrument and probe builders that already hold such contracts.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is fairly sure of this one.

A small prize. A vehicle for crossing or working another world's surface serves a few expeditions, a niche.

Who is paid. No user is named, so it is assumed that firms working on other worlds buy it like other working gear, and established vehicle builders could all make it.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is not very sure of this one.

A large prize. A field that gathers fuel from the space between stars would free a starship from carrying its own, changing the cost of the longest voyages.

Who is paid. Ship operators pay, and once the engine was shown to work others could build it, so established engine builders collect.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is not very sure of this one.

A large prize. A slow ship built to settle distant worlds is an enormous building project.

Who is paid. Only a government could fund a voyage with no return for so long, and the big shipbuilders and contractors already trusted with such work would be paid.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is fairly sure of this one.

A small prize. Netting that holds cargo in place is a plain piece of ship's gear.

Who is paid. Space operators buy it for crews, and it is simple hardware that many workshops could make, so no seller keeps much.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is fairly sure of this one.

A small prize. It protects crews during hard thrust, which matters only to the few who fly such ships.

Who is paid. Ship operators pay for it as part of the craft, and the firms that already build ships and their fittings supply it since others could copy the design.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is fairly sure of this one.

A small prize. It protects crews during hard thrust, which matters only to the few who fly such ships.

Who is paid. Ship operators pay for it as part of the craft, and the firms that already build ships and their fittings supply it since others could copy the design.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is fairly sure of this one.

A small prize. It protects crews during hard thrust, which matters only to the few who fly such ships.

Who is paid. Ship operators pay for it as part of the craft, and the firms that already build ships and their fittings supply it since others could copy the design.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is fairly sure of this one.

A vast prize. Giving a whole world air and a climate people can live in would open new land for a large share of humanity.

Who is paid. Only a government could fund work on a whole world, and the large engineering firms that already hold such contracts would be paid to do it.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is not very sure of this one.

A large prize. Suspending and preserving the body would make very long voyages possible and, assumed here, would matter to medicine too.

Who is paid. Carriers and hospitals would pay, and nothing in the description stops others making it once it is shown to work, so the firms that already supply ships and hospitals collect.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is not very sure of this one.

No prize. It names the traveller who is asleep, not anything made or sold; the sleep itself is judged under the capsule and the gel.

Who is paid. Nothing is sold as a product, so nobody pays and no seller collects.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is fairly sure of this one.

A small prize. It protects travellers during hard thrust, which matters only to the few who fly such ships.

Who is paid. Ship operators pay for it as part of the craft, and the firms that already build ships and their fittings supply it since others could copy the design.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is fairly sure of this one.

A large prize. Materials taken from other worlds and from loose rock in space would feed an industry of their own.

Who is paid. Firms that need the material pay for it, and since others could dig the same way the gain goes to those who already own the ships and claims.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is fairly sure of this one.

A large prize. An engine with almost limitless thrust would change the cost of all travel between worlds.

Who is paid. Ship operators pay, and once a firm had shown how to catch and hold such a black hole others could do the same, so established engine builders collect.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is not very sure of this one.

A small prize. A probe carrying living material is assumed to be a rare science or seeding mission.

Who is paid. Nobody could be charged for such a mission, so a government pays the probe builders that already hold such contracts.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is not very sure of this one.

A large prize. An engine that gathers its fuel on the way would make travel to other stars possible.

Who is paid. An engine is bought by whoever runs the ship, assumed here to be carriers as with other drives, and established engine builders could copy it once it worked.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is not very sure of this one.

A small prize. It saves lives in a disaster, but it is safety equipment carried aboard a larger ship.

Who is paid. Ship operators pay for it as required safety gear, and shipbuilders supply it because the design is easy to copy.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is fairly sure of this one.

No prize. It is a natural thing or place in space, not something made or sold.

Who is paid. Nothing is sold, so nobody pays and no seller collects.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is fairly sure of this one.

A large prize. Entertainment on a grand scale on the Moon would draw visitors enough for a travel industry of its own.

Who is paid. Visitors pay to come, and another cavern could be dug, so the gain goes to those who already hold the ground and the ships that bring people.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is not very sure of this one.

A large prize. Making goods in orbit would be an industry of its own if the goods are worth bringing down.

Who is paid. Firms buy the goods, and since others could build such plants the gain goes to those that already own launchers and factory know-how.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is not very sure of this one.

A large prize. Travel faster than light would open other stars to trade and settlement, a transport industry of its own; it is a change for those who go, not for most people.

Who is paid. Ship operators pay for the drive, and once a firm had built it others could too, so established shipbuilders collect.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is not very sure of this one.

A small prize. A control room that surrounds the pilot with displays is a better cockpit, a fitting of the ship.

Who is paid. Ship operators buy it as part of the craft, and the established makers of flight instruments supply it since it can be copied.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is fairly sure of this one.

A small prize. Spinning to give weight is a design feature of a habitat, useful but not a product of its own.

Who is paid. Whoever pays for the habitat pays for this, assumed here to be a government, and any habitat builder can use the idea so the established builders collect.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is fairly sure of this one.

No prize. It is a natural thing or place in space, not a product anyone makes or sells.

Who is paid. Nothing is sold, so nobody pays and no seller collects.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is fairly sure of this one.

A small prize. Clearing junk from orbit protects every satellite, a useful service but a modest part of what space work costs.

Who is paid. No satellite owner can be charged for a cleaner sky, so a government is assumed to pay, and the established builders of small craft do the work.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is not very sure of this one.

A large prize. Making goods in orbit would be an industry of its own if the goods are worth bringing down.

Who is paid. Firms buy the goods, and since others could build such plants the gain goes to those that already own launchers and factory know-how.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is not very sure of this one.

A large prize. A fixed way up from the ground to the edge of space would slash the cost of reaching orbit for every firm that uses it.

Who is paid. Shippers pay to send cargo up, and since another could be built once the idea was shown to work, the gain is assumed to go to the large builders and the holders of the few good ground sites.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is not very sure of this one.

A large prize. A fixed way up from the ground to the edge of space would slash the cost of reaching orbit for every firm that uses it.

Who is paid. Shippers are assumed to pay to launch from the top, and since another tower could be built once any had stood, the gain is assumed to go to the large builders and the holders of the few good ground sites.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is not very sure of this one.

A small prize. A pocket alarm for passing ships is a gadget for the few travellers who want a ride.

Who is paid. The description names a traveller carrying it, so ordinary people are assumed to buy it, and it is pocket electronics that many firms could make.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is not very sure of this one.

A large prize. It is judged as an engine that works, since the story gives no principle; any working engine sets how far and fast ships can go.

Who is paid. Whoever runs the ship pays for the engine, assumed here to be carriers, and once a firm had built it others could too, so established engine and ship builders collect.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is not very sure of this one.

A small prize. A launcher for a line helps a person pull about without weight, a simple tool for a few workers.

Who is paid. Space operators buy it for crews, and it is simple hardware that many workshops could make, so no seller keeps much.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is fairly sure of this one.

A small prize. Judged as a working weapon rather than as the harm it does, software that damages an enemy's computers is a narrow tool of attack.

Who is paid. Those it harms pay nothing, so I assume a government buys it as a weapon, and since such software is easy to write the firms that already supply states with arms collect.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is not very sure of this one.

A large prize. Therapy from a machine at any hour would bring help to the many people who cannot find or afford a human therapist.

Who is paid. Ordinary people pay, and once machines can counsel many firms can offer it, so no seller keeps much.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is not very sure of this one.

A small prize. A booth that answers confessions with stock phrases gives little comfort and serves mainly to keep people quiet.

Who is paid. The state that wants its people soothed pays for the booths, and anyone can build a machine that plays scripted replies, so no seller keeps much.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is not very sure of this one.

No prize. This is an event in a story, a machine chosen to lead a church, and not a product anyone buys.

Who is paid. Nothing is sold, so nobody pays and no seller keeps anything.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is fairly sure of this one.

A large prize. Flawless poems written to order with no human maker would change the costs of the whole trade that now pays people to make them, which is far more than an amusement.

Who is paid. I assume the firms that now pay writers, composers and illustrators are the main buyers, though people may also order for themselves, and once the method is known many can offer it, so no seller keeps much.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is not very sure of this one.

A vast prize. A machine that truly thinks could do much of the mental work people do now, not only run one ship, which would change how most people work.

Who is paid. Firms would pay to put it to work, and once one had been built others could learn to build their own, so I assume the firms that already own costly computing plant and sell to every business collect.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is not very sure of this one.

A large prize. Cheap, compact and lasting storage for information is an industry of its own, since every computer needs it.

Who is paid. Computer makers and data keepers buy it, and because rivals soon match each design, the firms that already own the costly factories collect.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is fairly sure of this one.

A small prize. Software that answers on your behalf saves its owner time and trouble, which is a convenience.

Who is paid. Ordinary people would pay a little for it, and it is easy to make, so no seller keeps much.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is not very sure of this one.

A small prize. Judged as a working weapon rather than as the harm it does, software that damages an enemy's computers is a narrow tool of attack.

Who is paid. Those it harms pay nothing, so I assume a government buys it as a weapon, and since such software is easy to write the firms that already supply states with arms collect.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is not very sure of this one.

A small prize. A switch for turning off a national network is an emergency tool wanted by one buyer.

Who is paid. A government pays for it, and the firms that already run the network are the only ones placed to build it in.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is not very sure of this one.

A small prize. Judged as a working weapon rather than as the harm it does, a program built to hurt a chosen person is a narrow tool of attack.

Who is paid. Those it harms pay nothing, so I assume a government buys it as a weapon, and since such software is easy to write the firms that already supply states with arms collect.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is not very sure of this one.

A vast prize. A computer at home linked to the world's information changed how most people learn, shop and work.

Who is paid. Ordinary people buy one each, many firms can make them, and those with factories, brands and the network lines collect.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is fairly sure of this one.

A small prize. Keys whose labels change are a nicer keyboard and not a new capability.

Who is paid. People buy it as an accessory to machines they already own, and any electronics firm can make one, so no seller keeps much.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is fairly sure of this one.

A large prize. A pocket organiser for notes and schedules is worth an industry of its own, though as described it keeps a diary and is not the networked computer that changes how most people live.

Who is paid. Ordinary people buy one each, many firms can make them, and those with the factories, brands and shops collect.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is not very sure of this one.

A large prize. Parts that work like brain cells would make thinking machines cheaper to build and run, which is worth an industry.

Who is paid. Machine builders buy them, and I assume others could learn to make such parts in time, so the firms that already own the costly factories for electronic parts collect.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is not very sure of this one.

A vast prize. A machine that thinks and speaks straight into the mind, which I assume could be made in numbers, could do much of the mental work people do now.

Who is paid. Firms would pay to put it to work, and once one had been built others could learn to build their own, so I assume the firms that already own costly computing plant and sell to every business collect.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is not very sure of this one.

A large prize. A computer that travels with its user changed office work enough to be an industry of its own.

Who is paid. Firms buy them for staff, the design is easy to copy, and the established computer makers with factories and sales channels collect.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is fairly sure of this one.

A small prize. A diary that reminds and nags is a convenience.

Who is paid. Ordinary people would pay a little for it, and it is easy to make, so no seller keeps much.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is fairly sure of this one.

No prize. These are flaws left in a recording and not a product anyone would pay for.

Who is paid. Nothing is sold, so nobody pays and no seller keeps anything.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is fairly sure of this one.

A small prize. A warning that someone is watching your screen is a single useful feature.

Who is paid. Firms and careful users buy it, and many software writers can make one, so no seller keeps much.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is fairly sure of this one.

A large prize. Forecasting how a particular person will act is worth a great deal to lenders, employers, sellers and police.

Who is paid. Firms are assumed to be the main buyers, and those that already hold the records about people are the ones who can build it.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is not very sure of this one.

A large prize. Songs composed to order with no human maker would change the costs of the whole trade that now pays people to make them, which is far more than an amusement.

Who is paid. I assume the firms that now pay writers, composers and illustrators are the main buyers, though people may also order for themselves, and once the method is known many can offer it, so no seller keeps much.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is not very sure of this one.

A vast prize. A machine able to answer the deepest question could, I assume, answer lesser ones too, and would change how most people learn, decide and work.

Who is paid. I assume a single machine serving everyone would be built as a public work, so a government pays, and the firms that already build large computing works for governments collect.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is not very sure of this one.

A small prize. A character for a machine is a pleasant feature laid on top of the thinking, not the thing people mainly pay for.

Who is paid. Firms that sell machines would buy it as a feature, and once machines can talk a persona is easy for anyone to write.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is not very sure of this one.

A small prize. A new way to type or point is a convenience, since keyboards and screens already do the job.

Who is paid. Ordinary people get it inside gadgets they buy, and it is easy to copy, so no seller keeps much.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is fairly sure of this one.

A large prize. The word stands for pictures with true depth, which would replace flat screens in homes and workplaces.

Who is paid. Judging the display the word names, households buy it, the design can be copied, and the existing screen makers collect.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is not very sure of this one.

A small prize. Sound fed straight into the ear is a convenience over an ordinary radio or speaker.

Who is paid. Ordinary people buy it and many firms can make tiny ear pieces, so no seller keeps much.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is fairly sure of this one.

A small prize. One great spire for calling beyond the solar system is a single act of curiosity with no customers waiting for the service.

Who is paid. I assume a state would pay for it as a science project, as nobody could be charged for its use, and the big builders that already win such works would be paid.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is not very sure of this one.

A large prize. Being understood in any language while wearing a small disc removes a barrier to travel and trade for a great many people.

Who is paid. Travellers and traders buy it, and once one firm had made a good translator others could too, so no seller keeps much.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is not very sure of this one.

A small prize. Unlike a personal film player, a projector in the pocket is an accessory for showing pictures to a group.

Who is paid. Ordinary people buy it and many firms can make one, so no seller keeps much.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is fairly sure of this one.

A large prize. A phone inside the body that is never lost or left behind would be worth an industry, though surgery would put many people off.

Who is paid. People buy it for themselves, the device can be copied, and the firms that own the phone networks collect.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is not very sure of this one.

A small prize. Portable recording and sending kit is a useful tool for one trade.

Who is paid. News firms buy it and many makers can build such kit, so no seller keeps much.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is fairly sure of this one.

A small prize. Paper that sends pen strokes to a distant computer is a handy way to enter notes, not a need.

Who is paid. Offices buy it, and since many can make such sheets, no seller keeps much.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is fairly sure of this one.

A small prize. An artwork made of light is a luxury for collectors.

Who is paid. Collectors buy it; I assumed the method is open to any artist, so no seller keeps much.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is not very sure of this one.

A large prize. A networked intimacy service that people cannot put down would draw spending on the scale of an industry.

Who is paid. Users pay; I assumed it stays legal and can be copied, so the firms that own the phone network it runs on collect.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is not very sure of this one.

A vast prize. A phone carried everywhere changes how most people live and work.

Who is paid. Ordinary people buy it; handsets are easy to copy, so the firms that own the networks and airwaves collect.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is fairly sure of this one.

A large prize. Appearing lifelike in a far place would replace much travel for meetings.

Who is paid. I assumed firms pay to save travel; once shown it can be copied, so the firms that own the networks carrying the image collect.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is not very sure of this one.

A small prize. Adverts thrown into people's path are one more way to advertise, not a new need.

Who is paid. Advertisers pay, the projector is easy to copy and nobody owns the open air it shines into, so no seller keeps much.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is fairly sure of this one.

A small prize. Print that speaks is a handy extra on a book or a leaflet, not something people need.

Who is paid. Publishers and makers of goods pay to add it, and since the chip is cheap and simple to copy, no seller keeps much.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is fairly sure of this one.

A vast prize. A network linking information across a whole country changes how most people work, shop and talk.

Who is paid. Households pay for a connection, the method is open for anyone to use, and the firms that own the wires and masts collect.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is fairly sure of this one.

A small prize. A line where someone simply listens comforts callers in need and is not a large trade.

Who is paid. Assuming callers pay a little or give to keep it running, anyone with patient listeners and a phone line can offer it, so no seller keeps much.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is not very sure of this one.

A large prize. Letting some traffic jump the queue changes what network owners can charge the firms that depend on them.

Who is paid. Firms that need fast delivery pay for the faster lane, and only those who already own the lines can sell it, so they collect.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is fairly sure of this one.

A vast prize. A small device for talking to anyone at a distance changes how most people live and work.

Who is paid. People buy one each, handsets are easy to copy, and the firms that own the networks the calls travel over collect.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is fairly sure of this one.

A large prize. A television as thin as a poster is the wall screen of the home, an industry of its own.

Who is paid. Ordinary people buy it inside the things they own; once shown it can be copied, so the firms with the big screen factories collect.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is fairly sure of this one.

A large prize. Talking across the stars with no delay would be the backbone of trade and rule between worlds, judged as if it worked, though it serves only those who live or work out there.

Who is paid. Assuming it needs great stations and not a pocket set, firms and governments with far-flung operations pay for the traffic, others could build the device once it is known to work, and the carriers whose networks feed the stations collect.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is not very sure of this one.

No prize. This is contact with a strange being that happens to people, not a device anyone could make and sell.

Who is paid. Nothing is made or sold.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is not very sure of this one.

A small prize. Images on a cloud of spray are one more way to catch the eye for an advertisement.

Who is paid. Advertisers pay, and a sprayer and a projector are easy for anyone to set up, so no seller keeps much.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is fairly sure of this one.

A large prize. A room-sized picture with depth that you can step into would replace flat screens for home entertainment.

Who is paid. Assuming it is fitted in homes, households buy it, the design can be copied, and the existing screen makers, who own the factories and brands, collect.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is not very sure of this one.

A small prize. Advertising on a curtain of vapour is one more way to catch the eye.

Who is paid. Advertisers pay, and a sprayer and a projector are easy for anyone to set up, so no seller keeps much.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is fairly sure of this one.

A large prize. A handheld tablet showing pictures with true depth, working as the story promises and not as those built so far, would replace flat screens on personal devices.

Who is paid. Households buy it, the design can be copied, and the existing screen makers, who own the factories and brands, collect.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is not very sure of this one.

A large prize. News sorted to each reader's interests changes how the news trade reaches people.

Who is paid. Readers pay by subscription; the sorting is easy to copy, so those who already hold the reporting and the audience collect.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is not very sure of this one.

A large prize. Understanding any spoken language at once would remove a cost from travel, trade and every job done across borders.

Who is paid. People buy one each, and since it is a creature that breeds, anyone can raise and sell them, so no seller keeps much.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is fairly sure of this one.

A large prize. A handheld electronic book changes what it costs to publish, ship and store books.

Who is paid. Readers buy the device and the books, the device is easy to copy, and the publishers who own the right to the contents collect.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is fairly sure of this one.

A small prize. A robot that carries guests' bags is a convenience for hotels.

Who is paid. Hotels buy them for their guests, and many makers could build such a carrier, so no seller keeps much.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is fairly sure of this one.

A large prize. A hotel with no human staff would remove most of the labour cost of lodging.

Who is paid. Hotel operators buy the machines, and since many could build them the established makers that already equip and service such buildings collect.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is fairly sure of this one.

A large prize. A robot butler does the run of household work, worth an industry of its own, though it is the general machine set to one part of life.

Who is paid. Households buy it, and as many could make such machines the firms with factories and well-liked brands collect.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is fairly sure of this one.

A large prize. A machine that takes over housework would be worth an industry of its own, though it serves the home alone and not work at large.

Who is paid. Families buy it like any large appliance, and it is easy enough to copy that the appliance makers with factories, shops and trusted brands collect.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is fairly sure of this one.

A vast prize. A living thing built to serve as a robot is judged like any general working machine, which would change how most people work.

Who is paid. Firms buy them as labour, and since many could build such bodies once shown how, the large manufacturers with factories and service networks collect what is left.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is not very sure of this one.

A small prize. Pressing clothes by machine removes a lone minor chore, a narrower job than a full servant does.

Who is paid. Households buy it, and it is a simple appliance many could make.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is fairly sure of this one.

A small prize. The description gives this alien walker no job, so it is judged as a niche walking machine.

Who is paid. Firms with odd jobs for it are assumed to buy it, and once one was studied many makers could copy it, so no seller keeps much.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is not very sure of this one.

A small prize. Machines that clean and polish glass save some labour on large buildings, a niche.

Who is paid. Building owners and cleaning firms buy them, and many makers could build them, so no seller keeps much.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is fairly sure of this one.

A small prize. A station that refuels cars with no staff saves attendants, who are a lesser cost of selling fuel, and drivers serving themselves already did most of it.

Who is paid. Fuel sellers buy the machinery, and many firms could make it, so no seller keeps much.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is fairly sure of this one.

A small prize. A machine that carries bags behind a traveller is a convenience.

Who is paid. Airports are assumed to buy them for their passengers, and many makers could build such a carrier, so no seller keeps much.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is fairly sure of this one.

A vast prize. Working robots of many kinds doing most jobs would change how most people work.

Who is paid. Firms buy them as labour, and since many could build such bodies once shown how, the large manufacturers with factories and service networks collect what is left.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is fairly sure of this one.

A small prize. A machine worked from afar that can also act alone is a tool for dangerous or distant jobs, a niche as described.

Who is paid. Firms buy it for their own work, and such machines and their controls could be copied by many makers.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is not very sure of this one.

A vast prize. A small, nimble utility robot is assumed to be the general working robot of its story, able to take on most kinds of work.

Who is paid. Firms buy them as labour, and since many could build such bodies once shown how, the large manufacturers with factories and service networks collect what is left.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is not very sure of this one.

A small prize. A floating drone that tests a fighter's reflexes is a training aid for a few.

Who is paid. Fighters and their families buy it, and many makers could build a like machine.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is fairly sure of this one.

A small prize. A device that forces a robot to obey is a control fitting, valued only as part of the robot.

Who is paid. Firms that own robots pay for it, and any maker of robots can fit it, so nothing more is kept for it.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is fairly sure of this one.

A small prize. An extending arm with a cluster of sensors is a handy fitting on a robot, a feature.

Who is paid. Robot makers pay for it as a part of the machines they sell to firms, and any of them could fit it, so nothing extra is kept.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is fairly sure of this one.

A small prize. A legged pack that follows its owner and carries the load is a convenience for walkers and travellers.

Who is paid. People buy it for themselves, and many makers could build one, so no seller keeps much.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is fairly sure of this one.

A small prize. A climber that runs along a tower's cable to check it is an inspection tool for that structure alone.

Who is paid. The tower's operator buys it, and many makers could build such a climber, so no seller keeps much.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is fairly sure of this one.

A large prize. Boring through an asteroid and turning it into feedstock with no crew would cut the cost of mining in space.

Who is paid. Mining and building firms buy them, and the heavy-equipment makers who already supply those firms can copy the idea and collect.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is not very sure of this one.

A vast prize. The description gives a humanlike robot and a mood but no job, so it is assumed to be the general worker of the stories, able to do most kinds of human work.

Who is paid. Firms buy them as labour, and since many could build such bodies once shown how, the large manufacturers with factories and service networks collect what is left.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is not very sure of this one.

A large prize. Small flying robots that build and maintain would cut the labour cost of construction and upkeep.

Who is paid. Builders and property owners buy them, and since many could make them the construction-equipment makers with service networks collect.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is fairly sure of this one.

A large prize. A robot that spins cable and crawls along it to build in orbit would cut the cost of large structures in space, assuming such building is done.

Who is paid. Firms building in orbit buy it, and since others could copy it the makers that already supply construction and space equipment collect.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is not very sure of this one.

A small prize. A powered suit in the shape of a whale that magnifies its wearer's movements serves a few divers and researchers.

Who is paid. Research groups and diving firms are assumed to buy it, and powered suits could be built by many makers once the idea is shown.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is not very sure of this one.

A small prize. Staying sober while drinking is a convenience for drinkers, not a need.

Who is paid. Drinkers would buy it for themselves, and a new drug is protected from copying for a while, so its maker keeps what is left.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is fairly sure of this one.

A large prize. Choosing a baby's sex at home is something a great many parents would pay for.

Who is paid. Parents buy it in shops, and I assumed it is protected like a new medicine, so its maker keeps what is left.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is not very sure of this one.

A large prize. Fibres that pull like muscle would serve artificial limbs and, I assumed, machines of many kinds as well.

Who is paid. Makers of limbs and machines would buy the fibres, and other materials firms could learn to spin them, so established materials makers collect.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is not very sure of this one.

A large prize. Regrowing lost or ruined tissue would change what hospitals can do for the badly injured.

Who is paid. I assumed hospitals buy and run it; once it worked other makers could copy it, so established medical equipment firms and hospitals collect.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is not very sure of this one.

A small prize. A limb that works like a natural one matters greatly to people who have lost one, but they are a small share of everyone.

Who is paid. Patients would pay, mostly through insurers or health services, and several firms could build such limbs, so established makers of artificial limbs collect.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is fairly sure of this one.

A small prize. Legs better than natural ones matter greatly to people who have lost theirs, and I assumed few healthy people would swap their own.

Who is paid. Patients would pay, mostly through insurers or health services, and several firms could build such limbs, so established makers of artificial limbs collect.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is not very sure of this one.

A large prize. Regrowing lost or ruined tissue would change what hospitals can do for the badly injured.

Who is paid. I assumed hospitals buy and run it; once it worked other makers could copy it, so established medical equipment firms and hospitals collect.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is not very sure of this one.

A large prize. Putting people safely into long dormancy would make very long journeys possible and give hospitals time to treat the gravely ill.

Who is paid. I assumed carriers and hospitals buy it; the method could be copied once known, so the firms that already run ships and hospitals collect.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is not very sure of this one.

A large prize. The name is of the person, so the thing judged is the fitting of machine parts to the body, which taken together covers replacement eyes, limbs and organs and is an industry of its own.

Who is paid. Patients would pay, mostly through insurers or health services, and other firms could copy the parts, so established implant makers and the hospitals that fit them collect.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is not very sure of this one.

A large prize. A pill for wakefulness and a brighter mood would be used by a great many people.

Who is paid. People would buy it for themselves, and stimulants of this kind are old chemistry many firms can make, so no seller keeps much.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is not very sure of this one.

No prize. It is a grim practice nobody may buy or use.

Who is paid. Nothing is sold.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is fairly sure of this one.

A small prize. Easier births would be welcome, but this is a side use of a gravity machine and other aids to birth already exist.

Who is paid. I assumed hospitals buy it; whoever makes gravity machines for other uses could supply it, so those firms and the hospitals collect.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is not very sure of this one.

A small prize. A device that makes the surgeon's own movements finer improves some operations but leaves the surgeon in place, so it is a niche.

Who is paid. Hospitals would buy it, and other toolmakers could copy it, so established makers of surgical instruments collect.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is not very sure of this one.

A small prize. The description gives only that it alters the mind, so I assumed it would be taken for pleasure by a few.

Who is paid. Users would buy it, most likely unlawfully, and such drugs can be made by many hands, so no seller keeps much.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is not very sure of this one.

A small prize. A cream that numbs the skin is a convenience of a kind already widely made.

Who is paid. Shoppers pay, and many firms can make it so no seller keeps much.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is fairly sure of this one.

A small prize. Operated bodies are a banned niche; assumed a few firms use them for promotion.

Who is paid. Firms pay, and established makers of implants collect since the fittings can be copied.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is not very sure of this one.

A large prize. Staying alert without sleep for long stretches is something a great many workers, drivers and students would use.

Who is paid. People would buy it for themselves, and stimulants of this kind are old chemistry many firms can make, so no seller keeps much.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is fairly sure of this one.

A small prize. A cleverer dog is a prized pet or working animal, which is a niche.

Who is paid. Owners pay, and because the dogs pass the trait on, established breeders collect instead of the originator.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is not very sure of this one.

A large prize. Closing wounds with light would replace stitches and shorten recovery across surgery and emergency care.

Who is paid. Hospitals and clinics would buy it, and other makers could copy the tool, so established surgical equipment firms collect.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is fairly sure of this one.

No prize. It is done to a person without their say, to hurt them, break their mind or override their will or body, which no one may lawfully buy or use.

Who is paid. Assuming it is outlawed for everyone, governments and employers included, nothing is sold.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is not very sure of this one.

A large prize. Giving sight back to blind people is worth an industry of its own, though most people would never need it.

Who is paid. Patients would pay, mostly through insurers or health services, and once the design was known other device makers could copy it, so established implant makers and eye clinics collect.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is fairly sure of this one.

A large prize. Operations done by machine would change the costs and reach of surgery.

Who is paid. Hospitals would buy it, and other firms could build such machines, so established makers of surgical equipment collect.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is fairly sure of this one.

A vast prize. Holding off old age meets about the deepest need there is, and nearly everyone alive would want it.

Who is paid. People would buy it for themselves, and I assumed it is a new medicine protected from copying for a long while, so its maker keeps much of the gain.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is not very sure of this one.

A small prize. The name is of the person, so the thing judged is the surgery and gene work that fit a body for open space, which serves the few who work there.

Who is paid. I assumed firms working in space pay for their crews; other surgeons and laboratories could learn the work, so established clinics collect.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is not very sure of this one.

A small prize. The description promises only an unlawful drug taken for pleasure, which gives its users nothing beyond what such drugs already give.

Who is paid. Users would buy it unlawfully, and I assumed such drugs can be made by many hands, so no seller keeps much.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is not very sure of this one.

A small prize. I assumed it serves the few people who choose to live in open space, which is a niche.

Who is paid. The people who wear it would pay, and a living partner can be bred on by others, so established breeders and suppliers collect.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is not very sure of this one.

A small prize. Man-made skin helps people with burns and bad wounds, which is an important but narrow part of medicine.

Who is paid. Hospitals and clinics would buy it, and the firms that already supply wound dressings could all make it, so they collect a modest margin.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is fairly sure of this one.

A large prize. Warning of a heart attack before it strikes would save many lives among older people.

Who is paid. People would buy it for themselves, and many electronics firms could build such a monitor, so established makers of wearable and heart devices collect.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is fairly sure of this one.

A large prize. A link from the nerves into made-up worlds would do what screens and games do now but far more fully, worth an industry of its own.

Who is paid. Ordinary people would pay for the implant and the service, and the firms that already make devices and run networks could copy it and collect.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is not very sure of this one.

A large prize. Deep sleep at the touch of a switch would be worth an industry of its own to the many people who sleep badly.

Who is paid. People who sleep badly would buy it for themselves, and the gear is simple enough for many makers to copy, so no seller keeps much.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is not very sure of this one.

A small prize. Triggering pleasure in someone else from afar is a way of swaying or taming a few people, not a treat they chose.

Who is paid. It is aimed at another person, so I judge it as a tool of control; though banned in the story a state would buy it, and its usual suppliers would collect because it could be copied.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is not very sure of this one.

No prize. It is done to a person without their say, to hurt them, break their mind or override their will or body, which no one may lawfully buy or use.

Who is paid. Assuming it is outlawed for everyone, governments and employers included, nothing is sold.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is not very sure of this one.

A large prize. Direct stimulation of the reward regions would draw a large and steady demand, as strong drugs do.

Who is paid. Users would buy it for themselves, legal or not, and it is simple enough that many makers could supply it, so no seller keeps much.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is not very sure of this one.

A small prize. Sorting the memories of a very long life only matters to people who live that long, a niche unless long life comes too.

Who is paid. The long-lived would pay for it themselves, and it is a method any trained person could offer, so no seller keeps much.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is fairly sure of this one.

A small prize. A person whose eyes act as a camera is a niche tool for filming and watching.

Who is paid. I assumed broadcasters pay for it, as in the story, and once one maker had wired a camera to the eye others could copy it, so no seller keeps much.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is not very sure of this one.

A large prize. Working a far-off body as if it were your own would let people do physical work anywhere without going there.

Who is paid. Firms would pay to put workers and performers where they are needed, and once the link existed others could copy it, so no seller keeps much; unlike the thought-steered machines this gives a whole body to live in.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is not very sure of this one.

A large prize. Pulling memories and thoughts out of an unwilling head would change how crimes are solved and secrets are kept.

Who is paid. The description speaks of extracting, so I assumed it is done to a subject by police, courts and spy services, and the firms that already supply them could copy the machine and collect.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is not very sure of this one.

A vast prize. Taking on a skilled person's knowledge by injection would replace years of schooling and training for most people.

Who is paid. Learners would pay for the shots themselves, and assuming the tissue can be grown in bulk many makers could supply them, so no seller keeps much.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is not very sure of this one.

A small prize. Watching brain activity as patterns on a screen is a pastime or a simple clinic tool.

Who is paid. I assumed people buy it for home use as in the story, and such a scanner is easy to copy, so no seller keeps much.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is not very sure of this one.

A vast prize. Keeping a copy of a mind so the person can be brought back would take away the finality of death for anyone who could have it.

Who is paid. People would pay for themselves and their families, and once one firm had done it others could, so the hospitals and medical firms people already trust would collect.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is not very sure of this one.

A large prize. Instant calls across the galaxy would be worth an industry of its own wherever people are spread among the stars, which ordinary telephones could not serve.

Who is paid. Callers would pay for each call; the description does not say the organism comes from a single source, so I assumed it can be bred like other living tools here, and the carriers that already run call networks would keep the stock and collect.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is not very sure of this one.

A small prize. Capturing and passing on your own thoughts for a while is a convenience for reports and records.

Who is paid. It is swallowed, so I assume the wearer is willing and buys it; many makers could copy it, so no seller keeps much.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is not very sure of this one.

A small prize. Cushions that save riders in a crash matter greatly to those riders, but they are a safety feature inside a vehicle, as the other safety features here are.

Who is paid. Drivers pay for them with the car, and the parts suppliers that already sell to the car makers collect because the design is easy to copy.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is fairly sure of this one.

A large prize. A flying motorbike that carries its rider wherever they please would be an industry of its own as the motorbike is; the kitchen and medical kit aboard add comfort rather than reach.

Who is paid. Riders buy it for themselves, and a light craft like this could be built by many workshops once the trick is known, so no seller keeps much.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is not very sure of this one.

A small prize. A motorbike that stores its energy in a spinning wheel is another way to power a bike, not a new use for it.

Who is paid. Riders buy it, and a flywheel is plain engineering many firms could copy, so no seller keeps much.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is fairly sure of this one.

A small prize. A walking mount for a lone rider goes where wheels cannot, which is a niche beside cars and bikes.

Who is paid. People buy it for themselves, and many workshops could build it once it is shown to work, so no seller keeps much.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is not very sure of this one.

A small prize. Shaping the air round a flying vehicle gives a smoother, quieter flight, which is a feature.

Who is paid. Airlines and other operators pay for it through the aircraft, and the established aircraft builders collect.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is not very sure of this one.

A small prize. A basic small land vehicle is a cheap runabout, which I take to be a niche beside the ordinary car.

Who is paid. Owners buy it as they buy a car, and once it works many firms could build it, so the vehicle makers that already have factories, dealers and repair networks collect.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is not very sure of this one.

A vast prize. Instant travel from place to place would end most journeys by road, rail and air and change where most people live and work.

Who is paid. The carriers that run the network buy the machines and charge travellers for each trip, and since nothing described stops a second builder, the firms that already own sites, power and travellers' custom collect.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is not very sure of this one.

A vast prize. Instant travel from place to place would end most journeys by road, rail and air and change where most people live and work.

Who is paid. The carriers that run the network buy the machines and charge travellers for each trip, and since nothing described stops a second builder, the firms that already own sites, power and travellers' custom collect.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is not very sure of this one.

A vast prize. Instant travel between any places would change where most people live and work and replace nearly all other transport.

Who is paid. The carriers that run the network buy the machines and charge travellers for each trip, and since nothing described stops a second builder, the firms that already own sites, power and travellers' custom collect.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is not very sure of this one.

A small prize. Flying on muscle alone is a sport for the fit, not a way of getting about.

Who is paid. Hobbyists buy it, and any maker of light frames and wings could build it, so no seller keeps much.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is fairly sure of this one.

A vast prize. An ordinary ground vehicle, judged as the motor car, changed where most people live, work and shop.

Who is paid. Drivers buy it, and since any firm can design a car, the makers with the factories, dealers and brands collect.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is fairly sure of this one.

A large prize. I assume the ships that use these natural shortcuts are what is sold, and reaching other stars would found an industry of its own, though few would make the trip.

Who is paid. Carriers and shipping firms buy the ships, as they do in the other star drive entries, and once the drive is known others could build it, so the established ship builders collect.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is not very sure of this one.

No prize. A fixed route between stars is a feature of space in the story and not something built or sold.

Who is paid. Nothing is sold, so there is no buyer and no seller.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is fairly sure of this one.

A large prize. A car that needs no driver gives back the hours spent at the wheel and opens car travel to people who cannot drive, which is worth an industry of its own.

Who is paid. Owners buy it, and since several firms can build a driving system once it is shown to work, the car makers that already own factories, dealers and repair networks collect.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is fairly sure of this one.

A large prize. A car that needs no driver gives back the hours spent at the wheel and is worth an industry of its own; hovering above the road adds little to that.

Who is paid. Owners buy it, and since several firms can build a driving system once it is shown to work, the car makers that already own factories, dealers and repair networks collect.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is not very sure of this one.

A small prize. Trained fish that tow floating houses serve only people who live on the water.

Who is paid. Houseboat dwellers buy or hire them, and anyone who can train the fish can sell them, so no seller keeps much.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is fairly sure of this one.

A large prize. Trains that fall through deep tunnels would cross long distances fast on little fuel, changing the costs of long-distance travel.

Who is paid. Governments pay for tunnels on this scale, and the tunnelling and railway builders that already hold such contracts collect.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is not very sure of this one.

A small prize. The description gives a hovering car held to flat ground and names no cancelling of gravity, so I judge it with the cushion craft as a niche beside the ordinary car.

Who is paid. Owners buy it for themselves, and many builders can make a craft that hovers low over flat ground, so no seller keeps much.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is not very sure of this one.

A small prize. A giant roving home for desert plains suits a few people who live and work there.

Who is paid. I assume the people who live in it buy it, and any maker of heavy tracked vehicles could build it, so no seller keeps much.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is not very sure of this one.

A small prize. A lighter-than-air craft is slow and carries little beside aircraft and trains, so it stays a niche; adding wings helps it carry more.

Who is paid. Operators buy it, and airships are simple enough for many builders to make, so no seller keeps much.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is fairly sure of this one.

A small prize. Machinery that stores and fetches cars fits more of them into a garage, which is a saving for the owner of the garage.

Who is paid. Garage owners buy it, and it is ordinary machinery many firms can build, so no seller keeps much.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is fairly sure of this one.

A large prize. Trains that fall through deep tunnels would cross long distances fast on little fuel, changing the costs of long-distance travel.

Who is paid. Governments pay for tunnels on this scale, and the tunnelling and railway builders that already hold such contracts collect.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is not very sure of this one.

A large prize. A private vehicle that flies its owner over the roads would be an industry of its own, though it mostly replaces trips people already make by car.

Who is paid. I assume the warriors buy their own craft as others buy a car, and the weapons do not make it harder to copy, so the vehicle makers that already have factories and repair networks collect.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is not very sure of this one.

A small prize. A small car steered by a bar is a compact car, which is a niche beside the ordinary car.

Who is paid. Owners buy it as they buy a car, and once it works many firms could build it, so the vehicle makers that already have factories, dealers and repair networks collect.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is fairly sure of this one.

A large prize. Free personal flight with no limit stated would be an industry of its own, replacing many trips now made by car.

Who is paid. Riders buy it for themselves, and a light craft like this could be built by many workshops once the trick is known, so no seller keeps much.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is not very sure of this one.

A large prize. A store that fills almost at once would remove the main drawback of electric vehicles and tools.

Who is paid. Vehicle and device makers buy it, and since storage recipes tend to be copied the firms that already own the big factories collect.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is not very sure of this one.

A small prize. Clothing that reshapes itself is a pleasure and a fashion, not a need.

Who is paid. People buy it to wear, and living cloth can be bred by others, so fashion houses with known names and shops collect.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is not very sure of this one.

A small prize. A hand tool that both lights and cuts is a convenience for workers and travellers.

Who is paid. I assumed it is bought mainly as a work tool, and many toolmakers can build such a cutter, so no seller keeps much.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is not very sure of this one.

A large prize. Man-made leather replaces one costly material in shoes, bags and seats.

Who is paid. People buy the goods made from it, and many chemical firms can make such a material, so no seller keeps much.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is fairly sure of this one.

A large prize. A material of almost impossible strength would let far larger structures be built and change heavy construction.

Who is paid. Builders buy it, and great strength alone does not stop a second maker, so the big materials firms collect.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is not very sure of this one.

A large prize. An extremely thin, light and strong filament would change the cost of cables, bridges, aircraft and lifting things to space.

Who is paid. Builders and vehicle makers buy it, and once the method is known the big materials firms with plants and customers make it and collect.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is fairly sure of this one.

A small prize. A suit that hardens when struck protects those who face blows or falls, which is a niche.

Who is paid. I assumed armies, police and space crews are the main buyers, and the firms that already hold their equipment contracts would make it.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is not very sure of this one.

A small prize. A city is not a product, so I judged the structural glass it is built from, which is one building material among many.

Who is paid. Builders buy the glass and ceramic, and established makers of building materials can all supply it.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is not very sure of this one.

A small prize. A very resistant cloth protects people in risky jobs, which is a niche.

Who is paid. Employers buy it for their workers, and the fibre and workwear firms that already supply them make it without any one keeping others out.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is fairly sure of this one.

A small prize. Conductive metal from a tube is a handy repair and assembly supply.

Who is paid. Workshops and electronics makers buy it, and many chemical firms can match a paste, so no seller keeps much.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is fairly sure of this one.

A large prize. A light metal that soaks up heat without warming would change the cooling of engines, machines and electronics.

Who is paid. Manufacturers buy it, and once the method is known the big materials firms with plants and customers make it and collect.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is not very sure of this one.

A small prize. Melting scrap at home into a bar is a convenience for a few people.

Who is paid. People buy it for themselves, and a small furnace is easy to make; I assumed the certifying is not held by one firm.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is not very sure of this one.

A large prize. Whole communities living on the seabed would open a new kind of place to settle, which is worth an industry of its own.

Who is paid. A dome that keeps the sea out shelters everyone inside at once, so a government pays for it, and the marine builders that already hold such contracts collect.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is not very sure of this one.

A small prize. A material for body armour serves soldiers and guards, which is a niche.

Who is paid. Armies and police pay, assuming they are the main buyers, and the firms that already hold armour contracts supply it.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is not very sure of this one.

A small prize. A living glove is a curiosity or a piece of protective wear for a few; the description names no wider use.

Who is paid. People buy it for themselves, I assume, and living creatures breed and spread, so no seller keeps much.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is not very sure of this one.

A small prize. Cloth that blends into the background helps soldiers and hunters hide but still leaves them visible up close, so it is a niche.

Who is paid. Armies are the main buyers, and the firms that already hold uniform and equipment contracts would make it.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is not very sure of this one.

A small prize. A stone that glows at night is a pleasant way to light paths and rooms without power.

Who is paid. People buy it for homes and gardens, and assuming the stone is common, many quarries could sell it.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is not very sure of this one.

A small prize. Seeing a clear slice through any object helps inspection and repair, which is a specialist tool.

Who is paid. Factories and laboratories buy it, and the method can be copied, so established instrument makers collect.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is fairly sure of this one.

A large prize. A thread far stronger than steel for its weight would change the cost of cables, bridges, aircraft and lifting things to space.

Who is paid. Builders and vehicle makers buy it, and once the method is known the big materials firms with plants and customers make it and collect.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is fairly sure of this one.

A vast prize. Building any object from molecules, far beyond today's printers, would change how nearly all goods are made.

Who is paid. Assuming a home or shop machine, people buy it and its feedstock, and a machine that makes anything can make more of itself, so no seller keeps much.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is not very sure of this one.

A large prize. A thread with enormous pulling strength would change the cost of cables, bridges, aircraft and lifting things to space.

Who is paid. Builders and vehicle makers buy it, and once the method is known the big materials firms with plants and customers make it and collect.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is fairly sure of this one.

A small prize. A reel for a very fine thread is a tool that goes with the thread, not an industry.

Who is paid. Users of the thread buy it, and any toolmaker can build a reel, so no seller keeps much.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is fairly sure of this one.

A small prize. Mapping the inside of an object in detail helps inspection and design, which is a specialist tool.

Who is paid. Factories and laboratories buy it, and the method can be copied, so established instrument makers collect.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is fairly sure of this one.

A large prize. Judged on its promise as a wonder building material it would change building costs, though the story says hidden flaws spoil it.

Who is paid. Builders buy it, and a material recipe gets copied, so established makers of building materials collect.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is not very sure of this one.

A small prize. A spray that lays down a wire is handy for repairs and electronics, which is a convenience.

Who is paid. Electronics makers and repairers buy it, and many chemical firms can mix such a spray.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is fairly sure of this one.

A large prize. A far tougher armour for war machines would change what an army's machines can survive.

Who is paid. Unlike the general-purpose alloys, this is armour, so armies pay and the firms that already hold weapons contracts collect.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is fairly sure of this one.

A small prize. A bendable strip that picks up sound is a handy part for recording and listening gear.

Who is paid. Equipment makers buy it, and many electronics firms can make such a strip, so no seller keeps much.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is fairly sure of this one.

No prize. Assuming it is a gas for use on people in war, it falls under the same ban as poison gas and no one may buy it.

Who is paid. Nothing is sold, so nobody pays and no seller keeps anything.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is not very sure of this one.

A small prize. A gun driven by magnets throws its shot faster but does the job guns already do.

Who is paid. Armies buy it with public money, and since rival makers can copy it the established arms suppliers with standing army contracts collect.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is not very sure of this one.

A small prize. A hand beam for slicing materials is one cutting tool among many that workshops already have.

Who is paid. Assuming it is used as a tool, workshops and builders pay, and cutting beams rest on known science that many firms can make, so no seller keeps much.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is not very sure of this one.

No prize. It exists only to inflict suffering, and no one may lawfully buy or use such a thing.

Who is paid. Torture devices are outlawed for everyone, governments included, so nothing is sold and no seller keeps anything.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is fairly sure of this one.

A small prize. A weapon that drives people off or wears them down with sound, smell, gas or words fills a narrow job for police and armies.

Who is paid. Police and armies pay, and these devices are easy to copy, so the suppliers that already sell them equipment collect.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is fairly sure of this one.

A large prize. Judged as if it worked, a device that destroys whatever it is turned on leaves no armour, wall or hull able to protect, and can dig as well.

Who is paid. Assuming it is a weapon first, since the description gives digging as an occasional use, armies buy it, and assuming rival makers learn to copy it the established arms suppliers collect.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is not very sure of this one.

A small prize. A blade that can be adjusted is a curiosity for a few buyers, since a sword loses to a gun.

Who is paid. As with other blades, a few people buy one for themselves, and assuming others can copy it once one is built, no seller keeps much.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is not very sure of this one.

A large prize. Judged as if it worked, a weapon that surely stops a person at a distance without harming them does what no gun can, and police and guards everywhere would carry it in place of firearms.

Who is paid. Police forces and armies buy it with public money, and since rival makers could copy it once it was shown, the suppliers that already hold their contracts collect.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is not very sure of this one.

No prize. This is a single ancient alien instrument found in the story, marked as not a technology, so there is no product to price.

Who is paid. Nothing is sold, so there is no payer and no seller.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is not very sure of this one.

A large prize. Assuming wars are fought in space, warships for it would be an industry of their own.

Who is paid. Only governments field war fleets, and the few yards already able to build large spacecraft would win the orders.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is not very sure of this one.

No prize. As described it is a weapon made to cause suffering beyond what fighting needs, which the laws of war forbid to every army.

Who is paid. Such weapons are outlawed for everyone, governments included, so nothing is sold and no seller keeps anything.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is fairly sure of this one.

A small prize. Fitted to one soldier's armour, it does much the same job as a gun, so the gain over a gun is modest.

Who is paid. Armies buy it with public money, and since rival makers can copy it the established arms suppliers with standing army contracts collect.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is fairly sure of this one.

A large prize. A suit that makes one soldier as strong and as hard to kill as a vehicle would change what an army costs and how it fights.

Who is paid. Armies pay, and since several engineering firms could build such suits, the defence suppliers that already hold army contracts collect.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is fairly sure of this one.

No prize. A device planted in a person to kill them unless they obey is a tool of blackmail that no one may lawfully buy or use.

Who is paid. Nothing is lawfully sold, so there is no payer and no seller to keep anything.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is not very sure of this one.

A small prize. The power to knock down another state's satellites is a narrow military job, however important in a war.

Who is paid. Only governments pay, and the few rocket and missile builders that already hold such contracts collect.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is fairly sure of this one.

A large prize. Assuming a station the size of a moon could be built, it would be the largest single arms order a state could place.

Who is paid. One government pays for a single station, and the few yards already able to build large spacecraft would share the work.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is not very sure of this one.

A large prize. Judged as if it worked, a barrier that stops attacks would change how ships, bases and cities are defended.

Who is paid. Assuming it is bought for defence in war, governments pay, and assuming rivals learn to copy it the established arms suppliers with standing army contracts collect.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is not very sure of this one.

A large prize. Heavy beam weapons for warships would be a major line of arms spending for any space fleet.

Who is paid. Navies pay, and the yards and arms firms that already build and equip warships would fit them and collect.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is fairly sure of this one.

A small prize. Judged as if it worked, an energy sword loses to a gun as a weapon, so it is a prized object for a few buyers.

Who is paid. A few people buy one for themselves, and assuming others can learn to copy it once one is built, no seller keeps much.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is not very sure of this one.

A small prize. A special-purpose explosive fills one narrow job.

Who is paid. Assuming armies are the buyers, governments pay, and existing explosives makers collect because such charges are easy to copy.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is not very sure of this one.

A large prize. Armoured fighting vehicles and warcraft are among the biggest things an army buys, and a better one shifts what winning costs.

Who is paid. Armies pay, and since the designs can be copied, the builders that already own the works and hold the army's supply contracts collect.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is fairly sure of this one.

A small prize. Hidden armour with added strength suits bodyguards and agents, a narrow group, where the open soldier suit serves whole armies.

Who is paid. Assuming guards and agents of the state are the buyers, makers of protective gear with state contracts collect.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is not very sure of this one.

A large prize. Armoured fighting vehicles and warcraft are among the biggest things an army buys, and a better one shifts what winning costs.

Who is paid. Armies pay, and since the designs can be copied, the builders that already own the works and hold the army's supply contracts collect.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is fairly sure of this one.

A large prize. A piloted armoured war machine of that size would be a new class of weapon on the scale of tanks or warplanes.

Who is paid. Armies pay, and only the heavy arms builders with yards, factories and contracts could turn them out, though any of them could.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is fairly sure of this one.

A large prize. A piloted armoured war machine of that size would be a new class of weapon on the scale of tanks or warplanes.

Who is paid. Armies pay, and only the heavy arms builders with yards, factories and contracts could turn them out, though any of them could.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is fairly sure of this one.

A small prize. A beam weapon carried in the hand does much the same job as a gun, so the gain over a gun is modest.

Who is paid. Armies buy it with public money, and since rival makers can copy it the established arms suppliers with standing army contracts collect.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is fairly sure of this one.

A large prize. A heavy beam or a weapon fired from orbit lets a state strike or defend across great distances and would take a large share of what it spends on arms.

Who is paid. Only governments pay, and the few shipyards and space builders that already hold such contracts are the ones able to deliver it, so they collect.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is fairly sure of this one.

A large prize. Armoured fighting vehicles and warcraft are among the biggest things an army buys, and a better one shifts what winning costs.

Who is paid. Armies pay, and since the designs can be copied, the builders that already own the works and hold the army's supply contracts collect.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is fairly sure of this one.

A large prize. Reading the thoughts of whole crowds would give a state a power worth an industry, though only a state would use it.

Who is paid. The state pays for a single great machine, and I assume its usual defence suppliers build it and could be replaced by others.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is not very sure of this one.

A large prize. Cheap flying watchers change the cost of policing, border watch and scouting enough to be an industry of their own.

Who is paid. Police forces and armies pay, and since many firms can build such craft the money goes to those already holding security and defence supply contracts.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is fairly sure of this one.

A large prize. Spying machines too small to notice would change what police and spy services can learn, enough for an industry of its own.

Who is paid. Spy and police services pay, and once made they can be copied, so the firms already supplying such services collect.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is fairly sure of this one.

A small prize. Seeing in the dark matters to guards, soldiers and police, which is a niche.

Who is paid. Assumes soldiers and police are the main buyers; gear sold to them goes through the firms that already supply them.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is not very sure of this one.

A large prize. Dust-sized sensors scattered to watch and listen in secret change what spy services can learn.

Who is paid. The description says it watches covertly, so spy services pay, and the firms already supplying them collect since it can be copied.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is fairly sure of this one.

A small prize. Warning that a crowd is growing loud enough to riot is a minor aid to policing.

Who is paid. City authorities pay, and a sound sensor is simple to build, so the firms already supplying police equipment collect.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is fairly sure of this one.

A large prize. Finding any chosen person wherever they are would change police work, rescue and manhunts enough to be an industry.

Who is paid. Police and security services pay, and once shown to work others could build it, so existing police suppliers collect.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is not very sure of this one.

A small prize. A tag on identity papers lets the holder be followed only while the papers are carried, a narrow addition to documents already issued.

Who is paid. The state pays, and the tags are easy to copy, so the printers that already make identity documents collect.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is fairly sure of this one.

No prize. It is done to a person without their say, to hurt them, break their mind or override their will or body, which no one may lawfully buy or use.

Who is paid. Assuming it is outlawed for everyone, governments and employers included, nothing is sold.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is not very sure of this one.

A large prize. Watching all use of a nation's networks changes what a state can know about its people, enough for an industry of its own.

Who is paid. The state pays, and the firms that already build and run its computer and records systems collect, since others could build the same.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is fairly sure of this one.

A small prize. A disguise that passes its wearer off as a pet serves a very few investigators.

Who is paid. Assuming a spy service is the buyer, it pays, and since a skilled maker could copy the disguise the firms already trusted with secret supply work collect.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is not very sure of this one.

A large prize. Quick, sure identity from a body sample would reshape police work, border checks and hiring, enough for an industry.

Who is paid. Governments pay to run the register and the checks, and many laboratories can make the machines, so existing test suppliers collect.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is fairly sure of this one.

A small prize. A handheld recorder of depth footage is a specialist tool for police watching suspects.

Who is paid. Police forces pay, and it could be copied, so existing suppliers of police equipment collect.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is fairly sure of this one.

A small prize. A sheath that hides who the wearer is serves a few undercover agents.

Who is paid. Assumes police running undercover agents are the buyers, as in the story; the firms already supplying such services collect.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is not very sure of this one.

A small prize. Hidden cameras sending sight and sound to secret watchers are a recording tool for a narrow use.

Who is paid. Assumes a spy or police service is the buyer of hidden cameras; the firms already supplying such services collect.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is not very sure of this one.

A small prize. Compact rations are a convenience for people who cannot carry or cook ordinary food.

Who is paid. I assumed armies and state expeditions are the main buyers, and the firms that already hold their supply contracts collect.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is not very sure of this one.

A small prize. Alcohol in dry form is a convenience for carrying and storing a drink people already have.

Who is paid. Households buy it, and drying a drink is easy to copy, so the drink brands that already own shelf space collect.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is fairly sure of this one.

A large prize. Keeping frozen ground frozen across wide stretches would protect roads, pipelines and towns in cold lands.

Who is paid. Governments pay to protect land nobody can be charged for, and I assumed the new material is hard to copy, so its first maker keeps what is left.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is not very sure of this one.

A large prize. A machine that clears smog from city air would be a real gain for everyone who breathes it.

Who is paid. Nobody can be charged for clean air one by one, so cities pay, and I assumed the makers of heavy air-handling gear who already sell to cities collect.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is not very sure of this one.

A small prize. Weather shaped as a show is an entertainment for a small audience.

Who is paid. I assumed spectators and patrons pay the performers, and anyone with the gear and the skill can stage one, so no seller keeps much.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is not very sure of this one.

A large prize. New land raised from the sea would be worth a great deal to a crowded country.

Who is paid. A government pays for a project of this size, and I assumed the heavy engineering firms that already win such contracts do the work and collect.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is not very sure of this one.

A small prize. Keeping animals out with sound is a niche tool for a few sites.

Who is paid. Owners of sea sites such as fish farms and harbours buy it, and underwater loudspeaker gear is easy for many firms to make, so no seller keeps much.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is fairly sure of this one.

A large prize. Water drawn from dry air for crops would open up dry lands to farming, which is worth an industry.

Who is paid. Here farms buy it to water crops, not households to drink, and I assumed the gear is simple enough that many workshops can make it.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is not very sure of this one.

A small prize. A zoo of creatures from many worlds is an attraction people visit for pleasure.

Who is paid. I assumed visitors buy tickets, and whoever holds animals that nobody else can get keeps what is left.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is not very sure of this one.

A small prize. A store of living things is insurance against loss, valued by the public but not something that changes daily life.

Who is paid. No visitor or user can be charged, so governments pay, and I assumed any capable builder can put one up, so no seller keeps much.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is fairly sure of this one.

A large prize. A crop that grows meat would cut the cost of meat across the whole trade.

Who is paid. Growers buy the plants, and since living stock multiplies once any of it is sold, no originator can hold it, so the seed houses and nurseries that already hold stock, land and sales channels collect.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is not very sure of this one.

A small prize. Keeping animals out with sound is a niche tool for a few sites.

Who is paid. Site owners such as farms, ports and airfields buy it, and loudspeaker gear is easy for many firms to make, so no seller keeps much.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is fairly sure of this one.

A small prize. A barrier of corrosive liquid is one more way to fence a zoo.

Who is paid. Zoos buy it, and a ditch filled with a harsh liquid is something any builder can supply, so no seller keeps much.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is fairly sure of this one.

A large prize. This is plain clothing that does not change, and in the story it is the dull choice beside living fabrics, but plain clothing still dresses most people.

Who is paid. Everyone buys clothes for themselves, and ordinary cloth can be made by a great many firms, so no seller keeps much.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is not very sure of this one.

A large prize. Truly quieting loud neighbours would be wanted in most homes, which is worth an industry; I assumed it quiets a whole home and not just a patch.

Who is paid. The noise described comes from neighbours, so households buy it, and once the method of opposing noise is known many firms could make it, so no seller keeps much.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is not very sure of this one.

A small prize. See-through prison clothing is a minor security aid; unlike the fashion version it is bought for prisons.

Who is paid. The government pays as prison keeper, and the cloth is easy to copy, so firms that already supply prisons collect.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is fairly sure of this one.

A large prize. Where the air is badly polluted, everyone who goes outside needs a mask, which is an industry of its own.

Who is paid. People buy masks for themselves, and they are simple enough that a great many makers compete.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is fairly sure of this one.

A small prize. Reading the hour from lights under your skin is a novelty way to wear a watch.

Who is paid. Wearers pay for it, and the device is simple enough that many makers and clinics could offer it.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is fairly sure of this one.

A small prize. A window filter that sets brightness and colour replaces curtains, which is a convenience.

Who is paid. Households and builders buy it, and it is easy to copy, so the glass makers with factories and trade ties collect.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is not very sure of this one.

A small prize. A house that turns to face any direction is a novelty for a few buyers.

Who is paid. Households buy it, and a pivot is easy to copy, so the builders and developers who already hold land and customers collect.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is not very sure of this one.

A small prize. Suggesting colour schemes for a room saves a little thought when decorating.

Who is paid. Households buy it and many firms can make such a device, so no seller keeps much.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is fairly sure of this one.

A small prize. A cup that never holds a drop is a little easier to clean.

Who is paid. People buy them for the kitchen, and I assume the coating can be copied by other makers once it is on sale.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is fairly sure of this one.

A small prize. A block of flats that hovers a little above the ground gives its tenants nothing much that a grounded block does not.

Who is paid. A developer pays for it as a showpiece, and the large builders who already put up such blocks would do the work and collect.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is not very sure of this one.

A large prize. Unlike a slick cup, a toilet that needs no water would save a great deal of water and piping, and would bring clean toilets to dry places.

Who is paid. Home owners buy it, and I assume the coating can be copied, so the firms that already make and fit bathroom fixtures collect.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is not very sure of this one.

A small prize. Keeping floating adverts out of the home removes an annoyance in a world that has them.

Who is paid. People buy it for peace at home, and once the trick of blocking the images is known any electronics maker could copy it.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is fairly sure of this one.

A small prize. It is a style of music and dance, enjoyed by its fans.

Who is paid. Fans pay to watch or to play, and nobody can own a style of music, so any performer may take it up.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is fairly sure of this one.

A small prize. A blow-up screen for an altar is a cheap fitting for a place of worship.

Who is paid. Churches pay for it as organisations, and inflatable screens are easy for anyone to make.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is fairly sure of this one.

A small prize. A game table with moving solid-looking pieces is a pleasant toy, not a need.

Who is paid. Families buy it as a game, and once the display exists many toy and screen makers could build the same thing.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is fairly sure of this one.

A small prize. A mask that signals low standing is a piece of costume with a niche use.

Who is paid. Households buy it and any craftsman can make a mask, so no seller keeps much.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is fairly sure of this one.

A small prize. A pipe instrument played by squeezing a bag serves a few musicians.

Who is paid. Musicians buy it and any instrument maker can build it, so no seller keeps much.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is fairly sure of this one.

A small prize. Blocking floating adverts removes an annoyance in a world that has them.

Who is paid. People buy it for peace at home, and once the trick of cancelling the images is known any electronics maker could copy it.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is fairly sure of this one.

A small prize. A living bed is a comfort and a curiosity, and many would dislike sleeping on an aware creature.

Who is paid. People buy it for the home, and since living stock multiplies once any of it is sold, no originator can hold it, so the breeders and furnishing shops that already hold stock and showrooms collect.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is not very sure of this one.

A small prize. Towers that sing in the wind are civic art, pleasant but not needed.

Who is paid. A city government pays for it as public art, and the ordinary architects and builders who put up towers collect.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is not very sure of this one.

A small prize. Boots that soften a hard landing are a modest gain for walkers and workers.

Who is paid. Wearers buy them, and the springy sole can be copied, so any of the many footwear makers can sell them and no seller keeps much.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is fairly sure of this one.

A small prize. A private pool for raising young serves the households of a single species.

Who is paid. Families of that species pay to have it built into the home, and any builder can make an enclosed pool.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is not very sure of this one.

A small prize. Waking to a chosen smell is a novelty version of an alarm clock.

Who is paid. Households buy it and any gadget maker can build it, so no seller keeps much.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is fairly sure of this one.

A small prize. Water passages between buildings serve only residents who swim, which is a niche.

Who is paid. I assumed a city pays for them as public works, so the building firms that already hold such contracts collect.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is not very sure of this one.

A small prize. Glasses that go dark at the sight of danger are a joke comfort, since they hide the danger and do nothing about it.

Who is paid. Wearers buy them, and other makers of eyewear could copy them once they were on sale.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is fairly sure of this one.

A small prize. Guessing which drink someone would enjoy is a pleasant extra on a drinks machine.

Who is paid. I assumed a vending machine, so firms buy it for their premises, and the vending operators that already place machines collect.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is not very sure of this one.

A small prize. A chatty personality adds nothing useful to an automatic door.

Who is paid. Building owners buy doors, and the feature is easy to copy, so firms that already fit doors collect.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is fairly sure of this one.

A small prize. It is an ordinary towel, however useful the story finds it.

Who is paid. Households buy it and anyone can make a towel, so no seller keeps much.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is fairly sure of this one.

A small prize. A hovering mansion is a showpiece for the very rich.

Who is paid. Wealthy owners would pay, and established builders would put it up using lifting gear anyone could buy.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is fairly sure of this one.

A large prize. Passing through solid walls would change rescue, mining and spying, and would undo most locks.

Who is paid. I assume the public would be barred from it, so police, armies and rescue services pay and their usual suppliers build it.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is not very sure of this one.

A large prize. Stopping time inside a box would end spoilage and hold the badly hurt until help comes, assuming a container of household or shop size.

Who is paid. Homes, shops and hospitals would buy it like a refrigerator, and since it could be copied the appliance makers with factories and shops collect.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is fairly sure of this one.

A vast prize. Talking and stepping straight to another person anywhere would change how most people travel, work and trade.

Who is paid. People would buy the cards for themselves, and unlike a fixed gateway they need no sites or networks, so assuming many can make them no seller keeps much.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is not very sure of this one.

A large prize. Ships that outrun light would open other stars to trade and settlement, an industry of its own, though most people would never ride one. It is named as an idea rather than a device, so it is judged as the working thing it describes.

Who is paid. Shipping lines and explorers would buy the engines, and once the trick is known any shipyard could fit it, so the established ship builders collect.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is fairly sure of this one.

A small prize. Gathering rare magnetic particles in space is a niche supply trade, assuming they are wanted for compact motors.

Who is paid. Makers of machinery would buy the catch, and with open space free to any prospector no seller keeps much.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is not very sure of this one.

A large prize. A place ships must pass through to jump between stars is worth what the trade through it is worth, as a strait or a harbour is.

Who is paid. Shippers would pay tolls to pass, and I assume the place can be held, so whoever holds it controls a route others cannot make more of.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is not very sure of this one.

A small prize. Unlike the hard barriers, this one only holds things back gently, so it is a better fence rather than a weapon.

Who is paid. Owners of venues, farms and sites would buy it, and a fence is the kind of thing many firms could make.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is not very sure of this one.

A large prize. A wall nothing can pass would reshape defence, prisons and the guarding of valuable places.

Who is paid. Armies and police would be the main buyers, and with the method copyable among arms makers, the firms already holding such contracts would supply it.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is fairly sure of this one.

A large prize. A barrier that stops any attack would reshape defence and be worth an industry of its own.

Who is paid. Armies and city authorities would pay, and since rivals could copy it the firms that already hold defence contracts collect.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is fairly sure of this one.

A small prize. A field that holds in air at a doorway replaces an airlock, a single fitting for the few who work in space.

Who is paid. Operators of ships and stations would buy it, and the firms that already supply their equipment collect.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is fairly sure of this one.

A large prize. Reaching other times would be worth an industry in study, salvage and statecraft, though few people would need it day to day.

Who is paid. Here the story has the state pay to send idle workers back, and its established contractors build the machine, since others could copy it once shown.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is not very sure of this one.

A small prize. A beam of magnetic force is mostly a weapon against metal ships, a narrow use.

Who is paid. I assume armed forces are the buyers, and their existing suppliers would make it.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is not very sure of this one.

A small prize. Flipping an object into its mirror image is useful mainly to makers of drugs and chemicals, a niche.

Who is paid. Chemical and drug firms would pay to use it, and assuming others could build their own once it is understood no seller keeps much.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is not very sure of this one.

A large prize. Stopping time for those inside would let a prison hold people at almost no running cost.

Who is paid. Because this one is a jail the state pays, and the firms that already build and supply prisons collect.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is fairly sure of this one.

A large prize. A field that holds air around the body would replace space suits, diving gear and much protective clothing.

Who is paid. Employers of people who work in harsh places would buy it, and a worn device could be copied by many makers.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is not very sure of this one.

A large prize. A barrier that stops any attack would reshape defence and be worth an industry of its own.

Who is paid. Armies and city authorities would pay, and since rivals could copy it the firms that already hold defence contracts collect.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is fairly sure of this one.

A large prize. Crossing between stars quickly would open new worlds to trade and settlement, an industry of its own, though most people's daily lives would change slowly.

Who is paid. The story treats it as a joke with wild side effects; assuming it can be steered, shipping lines would pay and shipbuilders who could copy it would collect.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is not very sure of this one.

A large prize. A particle that makes compact power plants and other devices possible would change the costs of energy and arms, assuming it works as the series shows.

Who is paid. Makers of power plants and weapons would buy it, and since a particle of nature can be produced by anyone who learns how, no seller keeps much.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is not very sure of this one.

No prize. A sudden crowd is something people do, not a product.

Who is paid. Nothing is sold, so nobody pays and no seller keeps anything.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is fairly sure of this one.

A small prize. A members' club with linked branches is a luxury for a few; I assumed the teleport booths already exist.

Who is paid. Members pay, and any club owner could do the same once the booths exist.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is not very sure of this one.

A small prize. A watched park with no rules is one odd public space, a niche.

Who is paid. The city pays for it, and any contractor could build and watch it.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is not very sure of this one.

No prize. An alien assigned to study one human is a creature, not a technology.

Who is paid. Nothing is sold, so nobody pays and no seller keeps anything.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is fairly sure of this one.

A small prize. Pooled crowd guesses help with some forecasts but are a niche tool.

Who is paid. Firms pay for the forecasts, and since anyone can poll a crowd, no seller keeps much.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is fairly sure of this one.

A small prize. Voting at a terminal saves some trouble at elections but changes little else.

Who is paid. The government pays for the terminals, and many firms can build them, so no seller keeps much.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is fairly sure of this one.

No prize. Publishing state records for all to read is a policy, and the records are free.

Who is paid. Nothing is sold, so nobody pays and no seller keeps anything.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is fairly sure of this one.

No prize. A payment from the state to its people is a policy that moves money around, not a product.

Who is paid. Nothing is sold, so nobody pays and no seller keeps anything.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is fairly sure of this one.

No prize. Standing in others' eyes used as money is a custom of a society, not a product.

Who is paid. Nothing is sold, so nobody pays and no seller keeps anything.

A model's judgement, not a reading, of the idea as if it worked the way its story promises. The model is fairly sure of this one.