The project started with attempts to charge by simply flying near power lines, but when that method yielded only micro-watts of juice, focus shifted to actually landing on the lines.

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One of the next big things was Radio-frequency identification (RFID) contactless payment technology, which was said to provide a simple method of payment that could reduce time spent in checkout lines.

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He is dismissive of method acting although he admits he tells the crew to give him time to concentrate on his lines when he's on set.

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