30th week of 2012 patent applcation highlights part 53 |
Patent application number | Title | Published |
20120191196 | Vertebral Cage Device With Modular Fixation - Intervertebral arthrodesis for insertion in an intervertebral space separating opposite faces of two adjacent vertebrae has a ring shaped intervertebral cage having a bar that extends perpendicular to the axis of the spine. The bar has a height less than the rest of the cage. A surface of the cage contacting the vertebrae has an undulating shape for limiting sliding of the cage in a plane parallel to the vertebrae faces. | 2012-07-26 |
20120191197 | NUCLEUS AUGMENTATION DELIVERY DEVICE AND TECHNIQUE - A method of performing a procedure on an intervertebral disc includes inserting a cannulated delivery tube through an opening in an annulus fibrosus of the intervertebral disc, positioning an expandable portion of the tube within the opening in the annulus fibrosus, expanding the expandable portion into contact with the annulus fibrosus about the opening to create a seal between the expandable portion and the annulus fibrosus, performing a procedure through the cannulated delivery tube within the annulus fibrosis, removing the tube, and closing the opening in the annulus fibrosus. | 2012-07-26 |
20120191198 | CERVICAL INTERVERTEBRAL PROSTEHSIS - An intervertebral disc prosthesis having two cover plates and a prosthesis core that extends to the circumferential edge of the cover plates. The prosthesis core is mounted to the lower cover plate and forms a spherical sliding surface with the upper cover plate. The connection surface of the cover plates may be set back from the circumferential perimeter of the cover plates to provide an optimum size of the spherical sliding surface despite the set-back nature of the connection surface. The set-back is configured as an inclined transition surface that adjoins the connection surface to the circumferential edge. The set-back allows the intervertebral disc prosthesis to be fully inserted into the prepared disc space into the spared dorsolateral corners without protruding ventrally. | 2012-07-26 |
20120191199 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR DISTAL RADIOULNAR JOINT (DRUJ) ARTHROPLASTY - Apparatus for reconstructing a joint of the sort comprising a first bone having a first articular surface and a second bone having a second articular surface, wherein the first articular surface and the second articular surface engage one another, the apparatus comprising:
| 2012-07-26 |
20120191200 | ORTHOPAEDIC IMPLANTS AND METHODS OF FORMING IMPLANT STRUCTURES - Additive processes and novel implant designs provide precise pore design and positioning for clinically useful microstructures exhibiting the appropriate rigidity for orthopaedic implants. | 2012-07-26 |
20120191201 | REVERSE SHOULDER PROSTHETIC - A reverse modular humeral implant for implantation into a humerus that includes a natural humeral shaft and a natural humeral head. The implant includes a humeral stem implantable into the natural humeral shaft, and an adapter couplable to the humeral stem, the adapter including an anchoring projection configured to be coupled to a convex bearing. | 2012-07-26 |
20120191202 | Shoulder Joint Repair - A shoulder joint repair prosthesis ( | 2012-07-26 |
20120191203 | IMPLANT PACKAGE - A system for packaging a medical implant may include a sleeve for housing the implant within a cavity in the sleeve, with at least a portion of the cavity conforming to the shape of the implant. A flexible material film may cover and substantially conform to the shape of the sleeve so as to aid in stabilizing the sleeve and implant within an outer package. An insertion instrument for inserting the implant within the body of a patient may also be provided with the system. In some embodiments, the sleeve, with the implant inserted in the cavity of the sleeve, is configured for manipulation by a user without contacting the implant, and the implant is connectable to the insertion instrument while in the sleeve. | 2012-07-26 |
20120191204 | ARTHROPLASTY SYSTEMS AND METHODS - Systems for joint arthroplasty include prostheses which are secured to bone with sliding anchors. Examples include unicondylar and bicondylar knee prostheses for hemi-arthroplasty and total arthroplasty. Instruments guide the anchors into proper engagement with the prosthetic components. Methods of using the prostheses and instruments are disclosed. | 2012-07-26 |
20120191205 | Patient-adapted and improved articular implants, designs and related guide tools - Methods and devices are disclosed relating improved articular models, implant components, and related guide tools and procedures. In addition, methods and devices are disclosed relating articular models, implant components, and/or related guide tools and procedures that include one or more features derived from patient-data, for example, images of the patient's joint. The data can be used to create a model for analyzing a patient's joint and to devise and evaluate a course of corrective action. The data also can be used to create patient-adapted implant components and related tools and procedures. | 2012-07-26 |
20120191206 | HERMETICALLY SEALED PROSTHETIC COMPONENT AND METHOD THEREFOR - A prosthetic component suitable for long-term implantation is provided. The prosthetic component measures a parameter of the muscular-skeletal system is disclosed. The prosthetic component comprises a first structure having at least one support surface, a second structure having at least one feature configured to couple to bone, and at least one sensor. The electronic circuitry and sensors are hermetically sealed within the prosthetic component. The sensor couples to the support surface of the first structure. The first and second structure are coupled together housing the at least one sensor. In one embodiment, the first and second structure are welded together forming the hermetic seal that isolates the at least one sensor from an external environment. The at least one sensor can be a pressure sensor for measuring load and position of load. | 2012-07-26 |
20120191207 | METHODS AND APPARATUSES FOR ATTACHING TISSUE TO ORTHOPAEDIC IMPLANTS - Methods and apparatuses for attaching tissue structures to orthopaedic implants. In one exemplary embodiment, the methods and apparatuses are used to attach soft tissue and/or bone to a proximal tibial implant. In another exemplary embodiment, the methods and apparatuses are used to attach soft tissue and/or bone to a proximal femoral implant. | 2012-07-26 |
20120191208 | Subtalar Implant - One embodiment of the invention includes a sinus tarsi implant with an inverted thread profile having a lip or lips at the thread crest. The lips may help hold tissue in-growth and give greater purchase to the implant. The implant may also include voids that traverse threads. The voids may create an open area for soft tissue to grow into. The voids may be relatively small and consequently promote faster tissue in-growth. Thus, the lips and/or voids limit migration. They do this without creating sharp edges or pressure points (or at least limiting such creation) that are typically associated with techniques (e.g., cutting deep negative thread spaces) used to prevent migration. Therefore, the embodiments of the invention limit migration while also limiting patient discomfort. Other embodiments are disclosed. | 2012-07-26 |
20120191209 | Spherical Subtalar Implant - One embodiment of the invention includes a sinus tarsi implant with a proximal portion that includes a spherical portion. The spherical portion may include apertures for tissue in-growth. The implant design limits patient discomfort due to pressure points. Other embodiments are disclosed. | 2012-07-26 |
20120191210 | SURGICAL INSTRUMENTATION KIT FOR INSERTING AN ANKLE PROSTHESIS - A surgical instrument including at least one tibial phantom generally corresponding to at least certain features of the tibial implant. The tibial phantom includes a top surface adapted to move freely against the prepared bottom end of the tibia. At least one talus phantom generally corresponding to at least certain features of the talus implant is engaged with the prepared top surface of the talus. At least one phantom skid is located between the tibial phantom and the talus phantom. The phantom skid is engaged with the tibial phantom such that dynamic engagement between the phantom skid and the talus phantom through at least extension and flexion of the ankle joint positions the tibial phantom on the prepared bottom end of the tibia. The phantom skid can either be a part of the tibial phantom or a separate component. | 2012-07-26 |
20120191211 | Foot and ankle implant and associated method - The present invention contemplates an implant for insertion in various bones of the human foot and ankle to repair injuries and deformities. In one preferred embodiment the implant device includes a trapezoidal body member when viewed from the top with substantially vertical sidewalls consisting of at least two intersecting sidewalls that define a head end having a head-height. The sidewalls diverge at their respective tail ends to define a concave shape and a tail-height that is substantially the same as the head height, thus giving the implant a top and bottom that are substantially parallel when viewed from the front, side, or back views. The top and bottom portions further include friction-enhancing serrations. | 2012-07-26 |
20120191212 | CEMENT SHROUD FOR USE WITH CEMENTED PROSTHETIC IMPLANT - A shroud for protecting exterior portions of a prosthetic implant from adhesive and a method for utilizing the same. The shroud includes a hub, a rim, and at least one bridge connecting the hub and the rim. The rim of the shroud may be sized to cover substantially the same area as a guard of the implant. The method of utilizing the shroud involves securing the shroud to the prosthetic implant. A quantity of adhesive is provided, and the prosthetic implant is secured thereto. The shroud is removed from the implant, and then the guard is secured to the implant. | 2012-07-26 |
20120191213 | STRESS REDUCTION DEVICE AND METHOD - A stress reduction device and method includes positioning a device at the gastro-esophageal region of the patient. The device has a wall that is generally configured to the anatomy at the gastro-esophageal region of the patient. A strain is applied with the wall at the gastro-esophageal region, thereby increasing generation of at least one neuro-humoral transmitter. | 2012-07-26 |
20120191214 | Hydraulic Cement-Based Implant Material and Use Thereof - The invention relates to implant materials that are based on hydraulic cements in the form of one or more pastes, suspensions or dispersions that contain mineral and/or organic and/or organomineral solids and that react, when combined or when reacted with an aqueous liquid, to a solid in a cement-type initiation reaction. The invention also relates to the use of these materials as technical, medical-technical and/or pharmaceutical products, especially as bone cements, bone replacement materials, bone glues, dental filling materials and implantable active ingredient carriers. The implant materials according to the invention in the form of one or more pastes, suspensions or dispersions that contain mineral and/or organic and/or organomineral solids are formulated in an excipient liquid in such a manner that the pastes, suspensions or dispersions are stable in storage at normal conditions over a prolonged period of time and that they react, when combined with an aqueous liquid or when added to an aqueous liquid, in a cement-type initiation reaction and set to a solid. The excipient liquid of the mineral paste, suspension or dispersion is substantially water-free, and water immiscible or insoluble or hardly soluble in water in the chemical sense. | 2012-07-26 |
20120191215 | HIATAL HERNIA REDUCTION DEVICE AND METHOD - A hiatal hernia reduction device and method includes positioning a device having a wall that is generally configured to the normal anatomy at the gastro-esophageal region of a person without a hiatal hernia. The anatomy of the patient at the gastro-esophageal region is formed substantially to the anatomy of the normal person without a hiatal hernia. | 2012-07-26 |
20120191216 | VOLUMETRIC GRAFTS FOR TREATMENT OF FISTULAE AND RELATED METHODS AND SYSTEMS - Described are devices, methods, and systems useful in the treatment of fistulae, and in certain embodiments those having openings extending into the alimentary canal, such as anorectal fistulae. Illustratively, an anorectal fistula can be treated by placing a volumetric construct within the primary opening of the fistula. In certain embodiments, the volumetric construct can include a rolled remodelable material processed to form a substantially unitary body. Advantageous such remodelable materials can include collagenous extracellular matrix materials, such as small intestine submucosa. | 2012-07-26 |
20120191217 | Socket system including a vacuum liner for prosthetic or orthotic devices and associated methods - The socket system includes a socket and a vacuum liner. A one-way valve is positioned within the closed distal end of the socket and provides controlled fluid communication between the interior socket space and an external environment. The closed distal end of the vacuum liner includes a distal portion formed of a higher durometer elastomeric material than the surrounding portions of the liner, and including a concave section extending from an external surface thereof towards the interior liner space. The socket, on the interior of the closed distal end thereof, includes a receiving portion that corresponds to and receives the distal portion of the vacuum liner | 2012-07-26 |
20120191218 | Suspension Device for a Limb Prosthesis or Orthosis - A vacuum-assisted suspension device for a lower limb prosthesis secures the prosthesis to a residual body portion. Sandwiched between the residual body portion and an impermeable socket is a flexible liner made of an impermeable material that is porous to allow the transport of air and fluid directly away from the residual body portion to the outer surface of the liner. A fabric distribution layer is located over the liner and between the liner and the socket to allow transmission of such extracted air and fluid laterally over the liner to an evacuation port in the socket. The evacuation port has an associated one-way valve. During use, loading of the socket compresses the flexible liner and air is expelled via the evacuation port. When the load is removed, a vacuum is created directly between the residual body portion and the socket, the vacuum being maintained by the one-way valve. | 2012-07-26 |
20120191219 | PROSTHESIS HAVING MOVEMENT LOCK - The present invention relates to artificial limbs generally and joints for same. The present invention provides hydraulic functional units whereby enabling movement of artificial joints to closely correspond with natural human movement. In the provision of realistic joints, as used in prosthetic limbs, an important aspect in achieving realistic movement is providing a different operating characteristic to the joint when under load. One important characteristic of an artificial leg for achieving a natural-looking walking gait corresponding with those of a stabilised knee, i.e. a knee resisting flexion when under load, is when it bears at least some of the weight of the amputee. Properties of resilient mechanical members are utilized to enable a hydro-mechanical system to be controlled so that it releases a low joint resistance mode relative to a default high resistance mode. The invention also permits alternative embodiments such as electronic, electro fluidic or electromechanical means. | 2012-07-26 |
20120191220 | INSTRUMENTED PROSTHETIC FOOT - The present invention discloses an instrumented prosthetic foot for use with an actuated leg prosthesis controlled by a controller, the instrumented prosthetic foot comprising a connector to connect the instrumented prosthetic foot to the leg prosthesis, an ankle structure connected to the connector, a ground engaging member connected to the ankle, at least one sensor for detecting changes in weight distribution along the foot, and an interface for transmitting signals from the sensor to the controller. | 2012-07-26 |
20120191221 | INSTRUMENTED PROSTHETIC FOOT - The present invention discloses an instrumented prosthetic foot for use with an actuated leg prosthesis controlled by a controller, the instrumented prosthetic foot comprising a connector to connect the instrumented prosthetic foot to the leg prosthesis, an ankle structure connected to the connector, a ground engaging member connected to the ankle, at least one sensor for detecting changes in weight distribution along the foot, and an interface for transmitting signals from the sensor to the controller. | 2012-07-26 |
20120191222 | Modular Prosthetic Foot - A modular prosthetic foot includes an ankle component; a forefoot component having a circular part with a rounded top surface and at least one flat side surface, the circular part being connected to a rear part of the forefoot component; a forefoot cushion bumper positioned around the circular part; and a heel component. | 2012-07-26 |
20120191223 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR AUTOMATICALLY SELECTING SENSORS - A system is configured to receive into a computer processor one or more of a map or model of an area monitored by one or more sensors, and display on a display unit a location and orientation of the one or more sensors in the monitored area. The system further is configured to receive into the computer processor, via contacting the display unit, a region or path within the monitored area. The computer processor orients the one or more sensors towards the path or region in response to the contacting of the display unit, and after the orienting of the one or more sensors, the monitored area is displayed on the display unit. | 2012-07-26 |
20120191224 | OUTPUT FEEDBACK FREQUENCY CONTROL DEVICE FOR ROTATING MACHINE SPEED CONTROL - Provided are an output feedback frequency control device and a speed governor using the same. The output feedback frequency control device includes an integral control unit configured to generate an integral control signal by using a predetermined integral control constant (K | 2012-07-26 |
20120191225 | PREDICTIVE MAINTENANCE FOR THIRD PARTY SUPPORT EQUIPMENT - A server receives equipment data from third party support equipment during operation of the third party support equipment in a manufacturing environment. The server receives the equipment data via a first port on the third party support equipment. The third party support equipment communicates with a process tool via a second port on third party support equipment. The server determines a future state of the third party support equipment based on the equipment data and notifies a user of the future state of the third party support equipment. | 2012-07-26 |
20120191226 | PROGRAMMABLE CONTROLLER WITH BOTH SAFETY AND APPLICATION FUNCTIONS - A controller that controls both safety and application functions of connected equipment is disclosed. The controller allows a user to freely program application specific functions while preventing the application functions from affecting the safety functions of the controller. This may give the user more flexibility and leeway when programming the application specific programming functions, without having to worry about affecting the safe operation of the connected equipment. | 2012-07-26 |
20120191227 | SYSTEM FOR SOFTWARE WORK EVENTS - Challenge events and competition events are created and communicated to potential participants. The events are priced using a calculator that bases the price on the results of previous events and a catalog of reusable code assets using an analytics engine. One or more participants are chosen for the event by a selector subsystem. A solution is submitted by the chosen participant. The submission is evaluated, and scored in a challenge server layer. A payment application rewards the participant according to the event specifications and the scoring results. | 2012-07-26 |
20120191228 | STORAGE MEDIUM, INFORMATION PROCESSING APPARATUS, INFORMATION PROCESSING METHOD AND INFORMATION PROCESSING SYSTEM - A game apparatus as an information processing apparatus includes a CPU, and the CPU generates data for generation from information specific to the game apparatus and random numbers, and calculates hash value data by using the data for generation. On the other hand, the CPU extracts the apparatus-specific information from the taken data for generation, and determines whether it is correct or not. In a case that it is determined that the apparatus-specific information is correct, hash value data is calculated by using the taken data for generation. Then, the CPU executes game processing regarding the hash value data as a parameter in a case that the taken hash value data and the calculated hash value data are coincident with each other. In a case that the apparatus-specific information is not correct or in a case that the two hash value data is not coincident with each other, the communication game is not started. | 2012-07-26 |
20120191229 | Footwork Training System and Method - A system and method for evaluating an activity includes an article of clothing provided with a sensor capable of detecting the impact of the article of clothing, such as a shoe, on a surface. A system receives and interprets the pattern of impacts made during the performance of the activity. The system compares these impacts with those of a target routine. Iterations of the same performance may be stored in the system so that ongoing progress may be measured. The system may be used to enhance class teaching, in the home, or for Internet competition. The activity may include dance, yoga, martial arts, or similar activities. | 2012-07-26 |
20120191230 | System and Method for Real Time Interactive Entertainment - The system provides a method and apparatus for creating additional interest and participation for attendees at, or viewers of, live events and for fans and audience members observing or following along on television or the internet. The system provides a “game within a game” for an event by allowing participating patrons to predict event outcomes before or during the event, even on a short term real-time basis. The participant is rewarded for correct guesses and can even be given recognition at the event on a display (e.g. scoreboard) or jumbo screen. The participant can also earn points for using the system, even when guessing wrong. Participation and attendance are rewarded and the user can redeem points at the venue, further encouraging attendance. | 2012-07-26 |
20120191231 | Methods and Systems for Identifying Content in Data Stream by a Client Device - Methods and systems for identifying content in a data stream by a client device are provided. The methods may include receiving at the client device a signature file that is indicative of one or more features extracted from media content and information identifying the media content. The method may also include based on a comparison with the signature file, the client device performing a content identification of received media content rendered by a media rendering source. The client device may receive a set of signature files based on any number of factors including a physical location of the client device, a network address of the client device, a previous content recognition request of the client device, a genre preference, an artist preference, and a user profile. | 2012-07-26 |
20120191232 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR SYNCHRONIZING OPERATIONS AMONG A PLURALITY OF INDEPENDENTLY CLOCKED DIGITAL DATA PROCESSING DEVICES - A system is described for maintaining synchrony of operations among a plurality of devices having independent clocking arrangements. A task distribution device is to distribute tasks to a synchrony group comprising a plurality of devices to perform tasks distributed by the task distribution device in synchrony. The task distribution device distributes each task to synchrony group members over a network. Each task is associated with a time stamp that indicates a time, relative to a clock maintained by the task distribution device, at which synchrony group members are to execute the task. Each synchrony group member periodically obtains from the task distribution device an indication of current time indicated by its clock, determines a time differential between the task distribution device's clock and its respective clock and determines there from a time at which, according to its respective clock, the time stamp indicates that it is to execute the task. | 2012-07-26 |
20120191233 | Method for Collision-Free Transfer of a Plant from an Substantially Off Mode to an Operating Mode - A method for collision-free transfer of a production plant from an substantially off mode to an operating mode, wherein the production plant operating state information of connected process sections required for collision-free startup of the plant is derived at least partially from simulation data of a real-time simulation tool that simulates the production plant operation parallel to the actual operation of the production plant in real-time. | 2012-07-26 |
20120191234 | DIAGNOSING IN-LINE CRITICAL DIMENSION CONTROL ADJUSTMENTS USING OPTICAL PROXIMITY CORRECTION VERIFICATION - Solutions for diagnosing in-line critical dimension control adjustments in a lithographic process are disclosed. In one embodiment, a method includes: locating a control structure in a data set representing one of a chip or a kerf; simulating component dimensions within a region proximate to the control structure; determining a difference between the simulated component dimensions within the region and target component dimensions within the region; determining whether the difference exceeds a predetermined tolerance threshold; adjusting a simulation condition in response to determining the difference exceeds the predetermined tolerance threshold; and repeating the simulating of the component dimensions within the region, the determining of the difference, and the determining of whether the difference exceeds the predetermined tolerance threshold in response to the adjusting of the simulation condition. | 2012-07-26 |
20120191235 | INTELLIGENT OPTIMIZATION METHOD AND SYSTEM THEREFOR - A method and system of optimizing a complex manufacturing process performed to achieve one or more processing objectives for the process and/or a component produced by the process. The system includes a graphical user interface, a process module, and an optimization module. The process module includes a training module, an empirical relationships database, an analytical equations database, a heuristic knowledge database, and a process models database. The graphical user interface is used to input one or more processing variables and constraints for the processing objective. The training module generates empirical relationships from the processing variable and empirical data obtained from the manufacturing process. The process module generates a process model that takes into consideration heuristic knowledge of the manufacturing process, empirical relationships, and optionally analytical equations relating to the manufacturing process. The optimization module employs the process model to optimize the manufacturing process. | 2012-07-26 |
20120191236 | DISCRETE SAMPLING BASED NONLINEAR CONTROL SYSTEM - System, method and computer program product including instructions executed by a processor system for configuring and controlling a facility to perform a manufacturing process and updating a tool controlling the process according to a model employed for mapping calculated coefficients that characterize non-linear variations observed of a product to actual control parameters governing the processes/tools used by the facility during the manufacturing process. In a semiconductor manufacturing process, the method enables real-time control of variation in an exposure step of a patterning process using an exposure tool to minimize a nonlinear variation in one or more pattern attributes by adjusting the exposure tool or the patterning process corresponding to the calculated coefficients. In the method, measurements of product attributes, obtained by finite sampling over a well defined domain (e.g., a region such as a field/wafer in lithographic patterning), are projected onto a predefined reference mesh spanning the domain, using a physically based model comprised of functions constructed to be orthogonal and normalized over a discrete set of reference mesh locations. | 2012-07-26 |
20120191237 | SEWING MACHINE AND COMPUTER PROGRAM PRODUCT STORED ON NON-TRANSITORY COMPUTER-READABLE MEDIUM - A sewing machine includes an image capturing device capturing a marker on a sewing target object; a layout determination portion determining a relative layout of the next pattern, if a reference pattern is a pattern that is sewn when a holding position of the sewing target object is a first holding position and a next pattern is a pattern that is sewn subsequently to the reference pattern and that is sewn when the holding position is a second holding position; a layout detection portion detecting a layout of the marker; a registration portion registering information as storage information relating to the layout of the marker; an update portion updating the storage information when the layout of the marker is newly detected; and a setting portion setting a layout of the next pattern when the storage information relating to the marker captured in the second holding position. | 2012-07-26 |
20120191238 | CONTROL DEVICE AND CONTROL METHOD OF FIVE-AXIS CONTROL MACHINE TOOL, PROGRAM, AND MOLD - A five-axis control machine tool stores rotation-axis data indicating the inclination or runouts of each of a rotation axis A of a tilting table and a rotation axis C of a rotating table in association with rotation angles determined based on NC data, and calculates a correction rotation angle of each of the rotation angles A and C to correct the erroneous attitude of a tool. Five-axis control is performed based on the NC data by rotating the tilting table and the rotating table about the rotation axes A and C at the correction rotation angles, so that a workpiece is machined while eliminating the erroneous attitude of the tool. | 2012-07-26 |
20120191239 | METHOD FOR CONTROLLING THE TRANSPORT OF SAFE BAGS - A method for controlling the transport of transport bags ( | 2012-07-26 |
20120191240 | METHODS AND APPARATUS FOR REMOVING AN ITEM FROM A CONVEYOR SYSTEM - Methods and apparatus for removing an item from a conveyor system are provided. In some aspects, an escapement assembly includes a sensor system configured to detect a target item of a plurality of items on a feed conveyor of a conveyor system. The feed conveyor is configured to facilitate transport of the plurality of items to a first location. The escapement assembly also includes an escape conveyor configured to couple to a body of the conveyor system such that at least a portion of the escape conveyor is above the feed conveyor. The escapement assembly also includes a delivery assembly configured to pick the target item from the feed conveyor and to place the target item onto the escape conveyor. The escape conveyor is configured to facilitate transport of the target item to a second location different from the first location. | 2012-07-26 |
20120191241 | MEMORY WIRE TERMINATOR WITH SPRING CONTACTS - A container for use in a dispensing system is disclosed. The container comprises a body, a linkage element movably attached to the body, a control module, and an actuator comprising a memory wire having a length and a terminator that is attached to the memory wire. The linkage element has a first position and a second position, and the actuator is mechanically coupled to the linkage element. The control module is attached to the body and comprises a contact element. The terminator is attached to the body and electrically coupled to the contact element, wherein the electrical coupling between the memory wire and the contact element is mechanically compliant such that the position of the terminator relative to the body is invariant when the position of the control module relative to the body varies. | 2012-07-26 |
20120191242 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR FINDING AND ACCESSING A VEHICLE FUELING STATION, INCLUDING AN ELECTRIC VEHICLE CHARGING STATION - A control system and method are provided for a station to dispense fuel to a vehicle, including an electric vehicle, without requiring dedicated access to a communications network, with the advantage that authorization for fleet vehicles or individuals can be obtained from an access management system, using a portable, wireless device, such as a smart phone or a dashboard appliance. The authorization is wirelessly relayed to the station by the wireless device, to enable the dispensing of fuel. Subsequently, a log comprising the transaction is provided to the access management system, through the same or a different wireless, mobile computing device. The log may also report status and other events, such as load shedding. | 2012-07-26 |
20120191243 | ROBOT ARRANGEMENT, IN PARTICULAR IN A PAINTING BOOTH - A robot arrangement, for example for a painting booth, and exemplary methods associated with the same, are disclosed. An exemplary robot arrangement may comprise a displacement rail, a plurality of robots, such as painting robots or handling robots, which can be displaced along the displacement rail, and a plurality of energy supply chains. The energy supply chains may supply one of the robots each, and may be associated with said robot, and each of the energy supply chains may run along the displacement rail in a particular track. The energy supply chains which are associated with the robots on the same displacement rail may run in discrete tracks. | 2012-07-26 |
20120191244 | ROBOT CONTROL SYSTEM AND METHOD - A robot control system and method includes plural actuators provided on a robot, plural controller modules, each of which controls at least one of the actuators and includes a program to perform a motion and an ID, an adjustment module to register a control right of each controller module over the at least one of the actuators and to perform at least one motion when a request for the at least one motion is made, and an abstraction layer module to judge whether or not a detected controller module is a controller module having the control right over the at least one of the actuators by confirming the ID of the controller module, and to drive the at least one of the actuators by controlling execution of the controller module upon judging that the detected controller module is the controller module having the control right. | 2012-07-26 |
20120191245 | CONTROL APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR MASTER-SLAVE ROBOT, MASTER-SLAVE ROBOT, CONTROL PROGRAM, AND INTEGRATED ELECTRONIC CIRCUIT - A control apparatus for a master-slave robot includes a force correction section detecting unit that detects a section at which force information from at least one of force information and speed information is corrected, and a force correcting unit that corrects the force information at a section detected as a force correction section by the force correction section detecting unit. A small external force applied to a slave manipulator is magnified and transmitted to a master manipulator, or an excessive manipulation force applied to the master manipulator is reduced and transmitted to the slave manipulator. | 2012-07-26 |
20120191246 | MOBILE TELE-PRESENCE SYSTEM WITH A MICROPHONE SYSTEM - A remote controlled robot system that includes a robot and a remote control station. The robot includes a binaural microphone system that is coupled to a speaker system of the remote control station. The binaural microphone system may include a pair of microphones located at opposite sides of a robot head. the location of the microphones roughly coincides with the location of ears on a human body. Such microphone location creates a mobile robot that more effectively simulates the tele-presence of an operator of the system. The robot may include two different microphone systems and the ability to switch between systems. For example, the robot may also include a zoom camera system and a directional microphone. The directional microphone may be utilized to capture sound from a direction that corresponds to an object zoomed upon by the camera system. | 2012-07-26 |
20120191247 | MASTER-SLAVE MANIPULATOR AND MEDICAL MASTER-SLAVE MANIPULATOR - A master-slave manipulator includes a slave manipulator, a master operation input device, and a control unit. The slave manipulator includes joints having multiple degrees of freedom. The master operation input device allows an operator to uniquely input a position and an orientation. The device includes a first operation unit configured to output the position and orientation, and a second operation unit including at least a joint configured to output value of the joint independently with the output of the first operation unit. The control unit calculates a driving amount of each joint of the slave manipulator using the position and orientation of the second operation unit and controls the slave manipulator in accordance with a joint driving command value. | 2012-07-26 |
20120191248 | Fast-Error/Fast-Exception Handling Scheduler - A method of scheduling an operation and a method of salvaging a launched test on a sample analyzer having a plurality of system resources for which there is a discrete, redundant subsystem Methods include scheduling real-time actions for execution on the subsystem or its redundant subsystem, linking the subsystem or a first redundant subsystem to another subsystem or to a second redundant subsystem, commanding the subsystem or the redundant subsystem to execute the actions for execution, executing each of the actions, monitoring execution of the actions, and re-scheduling an action for execution on a first subsystem on a corresponding discrete, redundant subsystem when an error or malfunction has occurred that may impact the launched test If re-scheduling is not possible, then the method includes trying to pause the launched test When pausing fails, the method includes marking the test bad an removing the test with minimal interference. | 2012-07-26 |
20120191249 | NETWORK IN WIND TURBINE - The invention relates to a wind turbine ( | 2012-07-26 |
20120191250 | POWER TOOL - According to an aspect of the present invention, there is provided a power tool including: a motor; a driving circuit that supplies an electric power from a power supply to the motor; a control part that sets a target rotation number for the motor in accordance with a mode selected from a plurality of modes, each mode having a corresponding target rotation number; and a voltage detecting circuit that detects a voltage of the power supply, wherein the target rotation number is varied based on the detected voltage. | 2012-07-26 |
20120191251 | Markless Registration System For Labels In Labelling Machines - Registration systems for labels in labelling machines, in order to provide the correct positioning of a label on an object, namely on a container are provided. In particular, the registration system of the invention is applicable on a labelling machine of the type that uses a label reel from which single labels are cut and are applied on a container. | 2012-07-26 |
20120191252 | PHOTOVOLTAIC POWER SOURCE FOR ELECTROMECHANICAL SYSTEM - An enclosure or shelter having an HVAC/R system is configured with a photovoltaic power source and a rechargeable DC power source for power back-up to maintain substantially uninterrupted power in the case of a main power failure. The system includes one or more variable frequency drives (VFD) controlled by a VFD controller and configured to provide three-phase power to one or more three-phase AC motors and single-phase power to one or more single-phase AC motors. The system also includes a power source controller configured to select power sources based on availability of one or more power sources and other logic. | 2012-07-26 |
20120191253 | HVAC/R SYSTEM WITH MULTIPLE POWER SOURCES AND TIME-BASED SELECTION LOGIC - A heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration system is includes one or more variable frequency drives (VFD) controlled by one or more VFD controller, which are configured to provide three-phase power to one or more three-phase AC motors and single-phase power to one or more single-phase AC motors. The system also includes a power source controller configured to select from a plurality of power sources based on availability of one or more power sources and time so as to maximize the economic efficiency of operating the system. | 2012-07-26 |
20120191254 | NETWORK SYSTEM AND CONTROL METHOD THEREOF - A network system is provided. The network system includes an air conditioner, a terminal, a power supply source, and a power management apparatus. The air conditioner includes a first communication module so as to enable communication. The terminal includes a second communication module which is communication-connected to the firs communication module, and downloads predetermined information from a web server. The power supply source supplies power to the air conditioner. The power management apparatus manages power information supplied from the power supply source. On the basis of at least one of the power information and information on an operation of the air conditioner, the terminal displays power use information of the air conditioner. | 2012-07-26 |
20120191255 | AIR CONDITIONER, METHOD FOR CONTROLLING OUTDOOR UNITS THEREOF, AND CENTRAL CONTROL SYSTEM HAVING THE SAME - Disclosed are an air conditioner, a method for controlling outdoor units thereof, and a central control system having the same. A mode conversion unit such as a boot loader is provided to perform a mode conversion between a driving control mode and an upgrade mode in a software manner, without requiring a user's visit to the site. This may allow an outdoor unit control program to be remotely upgraded. In the present disclosure, the air conditioner may return to a previous mode or previous program in the occurrence of an error on an upgrade signal or upgrade program. | 2012-07-26 |
20120191256 | MASTERLESS CONTROL SYSTEM METHODS FOR NETWORKED WATER HEATERS - Disclosed is a masterless control system for controlling a plurality of fluidly and operably connected water heaters to meet a hot water demand such that overall efficiency is maximized and usage disparity between water heaters is minimized. There is further disclosed a method for detecting a small system demand in said network by adjusting the setting of each flow limiting valve of each water heater. There is still further disclosed a method for enabling seamless addition or removal of a heater in service and heating load distribution to water heaters. | 2012-07-26 |
20120191257 | User interfaces for remote management and control of network-connected thermostats - Aspects of the present invention provide user interface methods for interacting with and managing network-connected thermostats through a thermostat management system. The user interface method identifies a primary enclosure associated with a thermostat management account with the remaining enclosures deemed secondary enclosures. The user interface displays the primary enclosure using a primary enclosure selection appearing in a foreground area of the user interface as a house and adjacent to thermostat selections representing each of the network-connected thermostats installed in the primary enclosure. In a background area of the user interface, a primary weather visual incorporates images of various weather patterns reflecting both a weather pattern in the vicinity of the primary enclosure and an approximate time of day at the geographic location of the primary enclosure. Secondary enclosure selections are visually deemphasized on the user interface when compared with the primary enclosure selection displayed on the user interface. | 2012-07-26 |
20120191258 | INTERVIEW PROGRAMMING FOR AN HVAC CONTROLLER - Controllers and methods are disclosed for aiding a user in programming a schedule of a programmable controller. In an illustrative embodiment, a guided programming routine can be activated by a user, which then guides a user through two or more screens that are designed to collect sufficient information from the user to generate and/or update at least some of the schedule parameters of the controller. | 2012-07-26 |
20120191259 | CONTROL SYSTEM METHODS FOR NETWORKED WATER HEATERS - Disclosed is a control system for controlling a plurality of fluidly and operably connected water heaters to meet a hot water demand such that overall efficiency is maximized and usage disparity between water heaters is minimized. There is further disclosed a method for detecting a small system demand in said network by adjusting the setting of each flow limiting valve of each water heater. There is still further disclosed a method for enabling seamless addition or removal of a heater in service and heating load distribution to water heaters. | 2012-07-26 |
20120191260 | Systems and Methods of Reducing Peak Water Usage - An irrigation management system reduces high peak water use values by utilizing a microprocessor disposed in an irrigation controller to (a) receive peak water use information from a source other than a water supplier (b) receive water use information at a consumer site, and (c) automatically derive a new irrigation schedule that is at least partly based on the information received. The new irrigation schedule preferably includes at least one of a modification in a default irrigation frequency or start time, a reduction in a default irrigation application duration, the use of a rolling-average in the determination of the new irrigation application duration and other changes or modifications to the default irrigation schedule that will provide for the reduction in high peak water use values. Additionally, the microprocessor will display to the water user and/or third parties details on the new irrigation schedule and information received from the water supplier. | 2012-07-26 |
20120191261 | Automatically Adjusting Irrigation Controller - Methods and devices are provided to automatically determine plant water requirements and adjust irrigation in order to make efficient use of water. In one implementation, an irrigation control unit comprises a memory storing historical values of a plurality of variables used at least in part in calculating plant water requirements, and at least one input adapted to receive signals corresponding to current values of one or more of the plurality of variables. The unit also comprises a processor coupled to the at least one input and the memory, the processor adapted to determine the plant water requirements at least in part using, for each of the plurality of variables, a current value in the event the current value is available and at least in part using, for each of the plurality of variables, a stored historical value in the event the current value is not available. | 2012-07-26 |
20120191262 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR CONSERVING ENERGY RESOURCES THROUGH STORAGE AND DELIVERY OF RENEWABLE ENERGY - A system for encouraging the use of renewable energy sources and suitable for the conservation of energy resources through the efficient management of energy storage and delivery includes connections to a power source, an energy storage subsystem, and a power grid. The system includes a power routing subsystem coupled to the source and grid, and adapted to operate in a bypass mode, in which energy is transferred from the source to the grid. The system includes a conversion subsystem coupled to the routing and storage subsystems, and switchable in substantially real-time between a storage mode, in which energy is transferred from the routing to the storage subsystem, and a generation mode, in which energy is transferred from the storage to the routing subsystem for delivery to the grid. The system also includes a controller for directing the modes based at least in part on a market factor. | 2012-07-26 |
20120191263 | ELECTRIC POWER MANAGEMENT SYSTEM - An electric power management system includes a power meter connected to a power system of a commercial power source and a power conditioner connected to the power meter, a power generating device and an electric appliance. The power meter and the power conditioner are configured to exchange power information through a communications part at the side of the power meter. | 2012-07-26 |
20120191264 | HYDROELECTRIC POWER OPTIMIZATION - A non-linear power equation may be solved in linear form by locking one or more variables and iteratively solving to accurately and quickly estimate optimized power solutions for hydroelectric power stations. Additionally, these iterative calculations may provide for long term water resource planning and more accurate estimation models. Further, such optimized power solutions may be usable to create accurate and timely water management models for the operation and planning of hydroelectric power stations. | 2012-07-26 |
20120191265 | CONTROL OF UNDERWATER TURBINE - A system and a method for controlling operation of an underwater power generator is described, as well as computing componentry for controlling the operation of the underwater power generator. The system comprises: meters for measuring selected properties associated with blade speed and inward water flow of the underwater power generator; a drive for altering one or more selected aspects of operation of the underwater power generator; and a data processing apparatus comprising a central processing unit (CPU), a memory operatively connected to the CPU, the memory containing a program adapted to be executed by the CPU, wherein the CPU and/or memory are operatively adapted to receive information from the meters to calculate a Tip Speed Ratio (TSR or λ) and implement an instruction to the drive to change the one or more selected operating parameters of the underwater power generator in response to the calculated TSR or λ. | 2012-07-26 |
20120191266 | DETECTING A HANDS FREE DRIVING SITUATION OF A MOTOR VEHICLE - Embodiments of the inventive subject matter ensure that a hands-free driving situation of a motor vehicle can be detected. In the case of such detection of a hands-free driving situation, requirements of a driving assistance system are preferably reset with respect to steering corrections made by the driving assistance systems. In this manner, virtually independent steering of the vehicle such as, for example, and autopilot type of driving assistance functionality is therefore advantageously avoided. | 2012-07-26 |
20120191267 | INFORMATION INPUT APPARATUS - An information input apparatus for detecting input information to output operation information to a controlled apparatus is disclosed. The information input apparatus includes a steering device having a grip part and multiple connection parts connecting the grip part and a rotation shaft. A vehicle driver inputs the input information by tapping the grip part or the connection parts. The information input apparatus further includes multiple measurement devices for measuring the vibration propagating through the respective connection parts. A controller of the information input apparatus pre-stores a correspondence between a form of the vibration, which is measured with the measurement devices, and the operation information. The controller selects the operation information from the pre-stored correspondence based on measurement signals outputted from the two measurement devices. | 2012-07-26 |
20120191268 | DATA PROCESSING METHOD FOR DETERMINING DRIFT VALUES OF AT LEAST ONE TIRE - A data processing method for determining the drift values of at least one tire comprising, for various positions of the vehicle on a track, determining coordinates of GPS antennas, determining values of roll of the vehicle, determining various points of contact between tire and track based on coordinates of at least one GPS antenna and based on various values of roll of the vehicle, said contact points defining a trajectory of the tire on the track; determining a tangent to the trajectory of the tire at at least one contact point, determining, based on coordinates of the GPS antenna, an orientation of a wheel plane associated with the tire, and determining a drift value based on the tangent and on the orientation of the wheel plane. | 2012-07-26 |
20120191269 | Teleoperation of Unmanned Ground Vehicle - Described are systems and methods, including computer program products for controlling an unmanned vehicle. A user controls one or more unmanned vehicles with a smart phone. The smart phone receives video stream from the unmanned vehicles, and the smart phone displays the controls from the unmanned vehicle over the video. The smart phone and the unmanned vehicle communicate wirelessly. | 2012-07-26 |
20120191270 | Wireless towed vehicle light conditions communication application - An application program to provide control for a radio frequency link for towed vehicle light and brake control, matching conditions of the towing vehicle. These include turn signal, brake signal, and running lights, and an analog signal for the towed vehicle electric brakes. The towing vehicle contains signal sensors and conditioners, which are converted into a data string, modulated, and transmitted using a continuous wave radio frequency carrier. The towed vehicle contains a receiver and demodulator, which extracts the data, and passes it to the towed vehicle microprocessor. The microprocessor also converts the electric brake digital data into an analog signal to apply the towed vehicle electric brake. | 2012-07-26 |
20120191271 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR THE LANE MONITORING OF A MOTOR VEHICLE, MOTOR VEHICLE, AND INFRASTRUCTURE DEVICE - A method is provided for the lane monitoring of a motor vehicle travelling on a road. Position data of the motor vehicle are provided that are determined in at least one infrastructure device arranged adjacent to the road with a storage device with card reader. The card data contains information regarding a course of at least one lane of the road. With a determined distance covered of the motor vehicle and with the card data it is determined if the motor vehicle is at least partially leaving a lane of the road travelled on by the motor vehicle. If it is determined that the motor vehicle is at least partially leaving the lane, a sending of a message from the at least one infrastructure device to the motor vehicle takes place. | 2012-07-26 |
20120191272 | INFERENTIAL LOAD TRACKING - Methods and apparatus for tracking the location of one or more unit loads in a coordinate space in a facility, comprising an integrated system that identifies a load by communicating with a host computer, determines the position of the load in the coordinate space, and stores the position and load identity in a Load Map. A mobile subsystem on each conveying vehicle identifies the location and orientation of that vehicle using a position/orientation sensor, confirms acquisition of the load, and communicates the information to a fixed-base subsystem when the load is deposited on an automated conveying device. A conveyor controller tracks the load as it is conveyed on the automated conveying device and identifies the load to a subsequent conveying vehicle based upon its position on the conveying device. Loads that are not initially identified are assigned a pseudo-identification for tracking until they can be positively identified. | 2012-07-26 |
20120191273 | AIRCRAFT FLIGHT DATA DELIVERY AND MANAGEMENT SYSTEM WITH EMERGENCY MODE - An automated aircraft flight data and delivery management system and method operates in a normal state and a demand state. The demand state may be self-initiated or manually-initiated, and may be triggered during situations which include but are not limited to situations when the aircraft is in a potential or confirmed emergency situation. Data transmission increases in intensity when the system is in a demand state. | 2012-07-26 |
20120191274 | METHOD AND SYSTEM TO ASSIST CONVENTIONAL FIXED-WING AIRCRAFT LANDING, WITHOUT A RUNWAY - A system allows conventional, unprepared fixed-wing aircraft to land safely on very small, unprepared areas, enabling an aerodynamic capacitance in which the airplanes can fly in a controlled manner against coherent air current, being assisted by a combined system including both the air current control mechanisms and the automatic flight control system of the aircraft. | 2012-07-26 |
20120191275 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR OPERATING A VEHICLE CRUISE CONTROL SYSTEM - A control system for a vehicle that includes an engine includes a speed generation module, an airflow determination module, and a throttle control module. The speed generation module generates a desired engine speed during a period after a measured vehicle speed is greater than or equal to a desired vehicle speed, wherein the desired engine speed is based on a difference between the desired vehicle speed and the measured vehicle speed. The airflow determination module determines a desired airflow based on a difference between the desired engine speed and a measured engine speed. The throttle control module determines a desired throttle position based on the desired airflow, and commands a throttle of the engine to the desired throttle position. | 2012-07-26 |
20120191276 | WATERCRAFT THROTTLE CONTROL SYSTEMS AND METHODS - A system for a watercraft includes memory, a communications module, and a throttle control module. The memory includes a first mapping of measured accelerator position to desired throttle opening. The communications module selectively downloads a second mapping of the measured accelerator position to the desired throttle opening to the memory. The throttle control module generates the desired throttle opening based on the measured accelerator position and a selected one of the first and second mappings. A throttle actuator module opens a throttle valve based on the desired throttle opening. | 2012-07-26 |
20120191277 | ENGINE CONTROL SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR A MARINE VESSEL - A system according to the principles of the present disclosure includes a profile storage module, a profile playback module, and a speed control module. The profile storage module stores an acceleration profile specifying a manner of accelerating a marine vessel. The profile playback module, in response to a play command received from a vessel operator, retrieves the acceleration profile and adjusts a desired engine speed based on the acceleration profile. The speed control module controls an engine speed of the marine vessel based on the desired engine speed. | 2012-07-26 |
20120191278 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR MAINTAINING THE SPEED OF A VEHICLE - A system for maintaining a selected speed of a vehicle is provided. The vehicle is powered in part by an electric motor and a battery. The electric motor is operable to drive in either a driving state or a charging state. In the charging state the polarity of the electric motor is modified so as to slow the vehicle down and supply power to the battery. A load bank is provided. The load bank is in electrical communication with the electric motor. The controller is further operable to direct power from the electric motor to the load bank when the electric motor is in the charging state. | 2012-07-26 |
20120191279 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR MANAGING POWER IN A VEHICLE - A system and method for managing power in a vehicle is provided herein. The vehicle includes a battery, an electric motor, and a plurality of electric devices. The electric motor is operable to drive the vehicle. The battery provides power to the electric motor and each of the electric devices. A first sensor is operable to detect the amount of power each of the electric devices is consuming and a display is operable to provide the power consumption for each of the electric devices and the battery power. Accordingly, the user is able to identify and manage how the battery's power is being distributed during the operation of the vehicle. | 2012-07-26 |
20120191280 | CONTROL APPARATUS FOR SERIES HYBRID VEHICLE - A control apparatus for a series hybrid vehicle includes an engine, a generator, a battery, and a drive motor increases an engine rpm according to an accelerator opening while maintaining a high fuel efficiency to give a driver an acceleration feeling because of the increased engine sound. A control means determines a target engine rpm based on an accelerator opening detected by an accelerator opening detecting means, and sets as the target engine rpm, an engine rpm at which a power generation efficiency is maximum when the accelerator opening detected by the accelerator opening detecting means is minimum, and sets as the target engine rpm an engine rpm at which an output is maximum when the accelerator opening detected by the accelerator opening detecting means is maximum. | 2012-07-26 |
20120191281 | ELECTRIC VEHICLE - An electric vehicle includes: a motor configured to be driven by electric power supplied from a battery; a limit control unit configured to calculate a limit rate for limiting a requested torque requested for the electric vehicle so that an induced voltage developed by the motor is equal to or lower than a voltage of the battery; a drive torque calculation unit configured to calculate a drive torque for traveling the electric vehicle based on the requested torque and the limit rate. | 2012-07-26 |
20120191282 | Driving Control Device - A driving control device for a vehicle in which one of a front-wheel side and a rear-wheel side is driven by an engine and an other of them is driven by a motor, reduces a driving force by the motor to recover a grip and estimates a road friction coefficient. The driving control device further transmits an engine driving force to drive wheels, and temporary increases the motor driving force in accordance with the engine driving force and the motor drive wheel grip limit line according to an estimated road friction coefficient. | 2012-07-26 |
20120191283 | METHOD AND APPARATUS TO CONTROL MOTOR COOLING IN AN ELECTRO-MECHANICAL TRANSMISSION - A powertrain includes an electro-mechanical transmission mechanically-operatively coupled to an internal combustion engine and first and second electric machines adapted to selectively transmit mechanical power to an output member. An apparatus for controlling the powertrain includes the first and second electric machines, a first electric machine cooling circuit directing a cooling hydraulic flow to the first electric machine, a second electric machine cooling circuit directing a cooling hydraulic flow to the second electric machine, a hydraulic control system receiving a hydraulic flow and selectively channeling the hydraulic flow to the first and second electric machine cooling circuits, and an active electric machine cooling control system monitoring temperatures of the first and second electric machines, monitoring operation of the hydraulic control system, and selectively controlling the hydraulic control system. | 2012-07-26 |
20120191284 | Method for Pulling a Vehicle Out of a Parking Space With Assistance, and Device for that Purpose - In a method for pulling a vehicle out of a parking space with assistance by a parking-assistance device, at least one pulling-out movement is performed by intervention in a steering system of the vehicle. A warning is output to a driver of the vehicle when the driver of the vehicle fails to take over the guidance of the vehicle after the assistance by the parking-assistance device in pulling out of the parking space has ended. | 2012-07-26 |
20120191285 | TRAILER HITCH ALIGNMENT SYSTEMS AND METHODS - Systems and methods for aligning a towing vehicle trailer hitch with the tongue of a trailer/towed vehicle are provided that enable a driver to know when the towing vehicle trailer hitch is close enough to the trailer tongue such that the two can be coupled. A trailer hitch includes a tow bar having a free end configured to be coupled to a trailer tongue. An alignment system includes at least one energy emitter secured to the vehicle that emits energy in the direction of the trailer tongue, and at least two sensors secured to the vehicle in spaced-apart relationship. The energy emitter(s) and sensors may be secured to the trailer or trailer hitch. | 2012-07-26 |
20120191286 | STEERING ARRANGEMENT FOR A VEHICLE WHICH IS MOVABLE ALONG A PREDEFINED PATH IN USE, BEING AUTOMATICALLY STEERED VIA AT LEAST ONE FIRST AXLE, AS WELL AS A VEHICLE PROVIDED WITH SUCH A STEERING ARRANGEMENT - A steering arrangement for a vehicle which is movable along a predefined path in use, being automatically steered via at least one first axle. Also disclosed is a vehicle provided with such a steering arrangement. The steering arrangement is for use in an automatically guided and steered vehicle, i.e. without a driver, wherein the steering arrangement can continue to influence the steerage of the vehicle for a minimum period of time in case of a malfunction, such that the risk of dangerous situations or accidents is minimized. | 2012-07-26 |
20120191287 | CONTROL METHOD FOR LOCALIZATION AND NAVIGATION OF MOBILE ROBOT AND MOBILE ROBOT USING THE SAME - The present invention relates to a control method for the localization and navigation of a mobile robot and a mobile robot using the same. More specifically, the localization and navigation of a mobile robot are controlled using inertial sensors and images, wherein local direction descriptors are employed, the mobile robot is changed in the driving mode thereof according to the conditions of the mobile robot, and errors in localization may be minimized. | 2012-07-26 |
20120191288 | ON-BOARD DIAGNOSTICS SYSTEM AND METHOD - An on-board diagnostics system and method are disclosed for a vehicle having an engine and an exhaust system. The system includes a modified selective catalytic reduction catalyst coupled to the engine via the exhaust system, where the modified selective catalytic reduction catalyst includes oxygen storage components. An upstream oxygen sensor is disposed in the exhaust pipe upstream of the modified selective catalytic reduction catalyst and a downstream oxygen sensor is disposed in the exhaust pipe downstream from the modified selective catalytic reduction catalyst. An engine control module receives data from the upstream and downstream oxygen sensors and determines a lifespan of the modified selective catalytic reduction catalyst based upon the data from the upstream and downstream oxygen sensors. | 2012-07-26 |
20120191289 | PROACTIVE LOW FUEL WARNING SYSTEM AND METHOD - A proactive low-fuel warning system provides notifications to a vehicle operator that the energy or fuel remaining in a fuel supply or energy storage device is insufficient to reach a fueling station. When fuel level is too low or the energy stored in a batter is insufficient, the system can be configured to inhibit vehicle operation. Emergency communications can be sent automatically when fuel is depleted, nearly depleted with inclusion of location information by which the vehicles current location can be determined by emergency service providers. | 2012-07-26 |
20120191290 | Method and System for Providing Environmentally-Optimized Navigation Routes | 2012-07-26 |
20120191291 | AFTERMARKET TELEMATICS SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR CONTROLLING A COMMUNICATIVELY PAIRED DEVICE - A method for controlling a communicatively paired device for use with a vehicle (“ATU”) includes, but is not limited to, the steps of detecting a first power state of the vehicle using a vehicle communication interface (“VCI”) that is communicatively coupled to a communication bus on the vehicle, transmitting a wireless signal corresponding to the first power state from the VCI to the communicatively paired device, and altering a second power state of the communicatively paired device to correspond with the first power state. | 2012-07-26 |
20120191292 | CUSTOMIZABLE CONTROL APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR A VEHICLE TURRET - A customizable apparatus for controlling rotational movement of a turret of a vehicle is provided. The apparatus includes a memory that stores information relating to operation of the turret. A communication port of the apparatus is adapted to exchange communications relating to operation of the turret with an external computing device. A controller processes communications received at the communication port from the external computing device. The controller processes the communications, and the controller selectively provides access to the stored information relating to operation of the turret to the external computing device. | 2012-07-26 |
20120191293 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR ANALYZING A POWERTRAIN CONFIGURATION - A powertrain optimization device and method that compares a predicted performance of customer-selected vehicle components to a customer-selected optimization goal. The optimization goal is used to determine dynamic performance thresholds. The method compares gradability at cruise, gradability at peak torque, engine speed, and startability to the dynamic thresholds to determine whether the vehicle performance will be satisfactory. The customer selections of vehicle components, selections of optimization goals, and any acknowledgements of failed performance checks are stored for later use. | 2012-07-26 |
20120191294 | METHOD FOR DIAGNOSING THE OPERATION OF A DEVICE FOR CUTTING OFF AND CONNECTING A BATTERY FROM/TO THE ONBOARD POWER NETWORK OF A MOTOR VEHICLE - A method for diagnosing operating condition of a device for cutting off and connecting a high-voltage bipolar battery from/to a bipolar onboard power network of a motor vehicle. The device includes a first power relay between a first terminal of the battery and a first terminal of the network, a second power relay between a second terminal of the battery and a second terminal of the network, and a serial arrangement of a third precharge relay and a precharge resistor, connected in parallel to the first power relay. The method: measures two voltages of the cutoff/connection device; compares the measured voltages with predetermined voltage values representing faults of the cutoff/connection device; and diagnoses a fault of a relay used on the result of the comparison. | 2012-07-26 |
20120191295 | METHOD OF DETECTING AN IN-RANGE FAILURE OF A BRAKE PEDAL POSITION SENSOR - A method of detecting an in-range failure of a brake pedal position sensor includes calculating the difference between a minimum position and a maximum position of the brake pedal position sensor. The calculated difference is weighted to define a fast test weighted input value and/or a full test weighted input value. A cumulative test result value is incremented by the fast test weighted input value and/or the full test weighted input value. The cumulative test result value is filtered to define a moving average of the cumulative test result value after each incremented occurrence. The moving average of the cumulative test result value is tracked to determine if the brake pedal position sensor is functioning properly. | 2012-07-26 |