48th week of 2011 patent applcation highlights part 58 |
Patent application number | Title | Published |
20110295345 | IMPLANTABLE INFRARED NERVE STIMULATION DEVICES FOR PERIPHERAL AND CRANIAL NERVE INTERFACES - Apparatus and method for making and using devices that generate optical signals, and optionally also electrical signals in combination with one or more such optical signals, to stimulate (i.e., trigger) and/or simulate a sensory-nerve signal in nerve and/or brain tissue of a living animal (e.g., a human), for example to treat nerve damage in the peripheral nervous system (PNS) or the central nervous system (CNS) and provide sensations to stimulate and/or simulate “sensory” signals in nerves and/or brain tissue of a living animal (e.g., a human) to treat other sensory deficiencies (e.g., touch, feel, balance, visual, taste, or olfactory) and provide sensations related to those sensory deficiencies, and/or to stimulate (i.e., trigger) and/or simulate a motor-nerve signal in nerve and/or brain tissue of a living animal (e.g., a human), for example to control a muscle or a robotic prosthesis. | 2011-12-01 |
20110295346 | CUFF APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR OPTICAL AND/OR ELECTRICAL NERVE STIMULATION OF PERIPHERAL NERVES - Apparatus and method for making and using devices that generate optical signals, and optionally also electrical signals in combination with one or more such optical signals, to stimulate (i.e., trigger) and/or simulate a sensory-nerve signal in nerve and/or brain tissue of a living animal (e.g., a human), for example to treat nerve damage in the peripheral nervous system (PNS) or the central nervous system (CNS) and provide sensations to stimulate and/or simulate “sensory” signals in nerves and/or brain tissue of a living animal (e.g., a human) to treat other sensory deficiencies (e.g., touch, feel, balance, visual, taste, or olfactory) and provide sensations related to those sensory deficiencies, and/or to stimulate (i.e., trigger) and/or simulate a motor-nerve signal in nerve and/or brain tissue of a living animal (e.g., a human), for example to control a muscle or a robotic prosthesis. | 2011-12-01 |
20110295347 | NERVE-PENETRATING APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR OPTICAL AND/OR ELECTRICAL NERVE STIMULATION OF PERIPHERAL NERVES - Apparatus and method for making and using devices that generate optical signals, and optionally also electrical signals in combination with one or more such optical signals, to stimulate (i.e., trigger) and/or simulate a sensory-nerve signal in nerve and/or brain tissue of a living animal (e.g., a human), for example to treat nerve damage in the peripheral nervous system (PNS) or the central nervous system (CNS) and provide sensations to stimulate and/or simulate “sensory” signals in nerves and/or brain tissue of a living animal (e.g., a human) to treat other sensory deficiencies (e.g., touch, feel, balance, visual, taste, or olfactory) and provide sensations related to those sensory deficiencies, and/or to stimulate (i.e., trigger) and/or simulate a motor-nerve signal in nerve and/or brain tissue of a living animal (e.g., a human), for example to control a muscle or a robotic prosthesis. | 2011-12-01 |
20110295348 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR PROVIDING LIGHT THERAPY TO A SUBJECT - A light therapy device is configured to deliver light therapy to a subject. Light therapy is delivered to the subject in the form of electromagnetic radiation that is emitted by the light therapy device onto the face of the subject in accordance with a predetermined light therapy algorithm. The light therapy device is configured to have a form factor that facilitates use by the subject. More particularly, the form factor of the light therapy device enables the light therapy device to be used discretely and comfortably while the subject is awake and/or asleep. | 2011-12-01 |
20110295349 | PORTABLE FAR-INFRARED PHYSIOTHERAPY EQUIPMENT FOR THERMAL MOXIBUSTION - A portable far-infrared physiotherapy equipment for thermal moxibustion may comprise at least a heating unit and a power control device connected to the heating unit for supplying power to the latter. The power control device may comprise: a charging control circuit connected to a power supply port to receive power supply from an external power source; an electricity storage unit connected to the charging control circuit to be charged; a power output control unit connecting the charging control circuit and the electricity storage unit to the heating unit respectively to enable to transfer power to the heating unit; and a micro controller unit connected to the electricity storage unit, the charging control circuit and the power output control unit to enable to control them. The present far-infrared physiotherapy equipment for thermal moxibustion is portable and convenient for users. | 2011-12-01 |
20110295350 | APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR OPTIMIZED STIMULATION OF A NEUROLOGICAL TARGET - A preferred frequency is identified, being usable to stimulate a neurological target within a mammalian body using at least one microelectrode positioned at or near the target. To establish efficient and effective stimulation, an impedance analyzer is provided for measuring electrical impedance values indicative of a microelectrode-tissue interface across a range of different frequencies. A preferred one of the measured electrical impedance values is identified as being closest to a pure resistance. The neurological target can then be stimulated at or near the frequency associated with the preferred impedance value (peak resistance frequency), thereby promoting desirable traits, such as optimum charge transfer, minimum signal distortion, increased stimulation efficiency, and prevention of microelectrode corrosion. The peak resistance frequency can be used to determine an preferred pulse shape. A target can be identified by microelectrode measurements of neuronal activity and/or impedance magnitude at peak resistance frequency. | 2011-12-01 |
20110295351 | Electrode Array for Even Neural Pressure - The present invention is an electrode array for neural stimulation. In particular it is an electrode array for use with a visual prosthesis with the electrode array suitable to be positioned on the retina. The array includes multiple attachment points to provide for even pressure across the electrode array surface. The attachment points are arranged so as to not damage retinal tissue stimulated by the electrode array. | 2011-12-01 |
20110295352 | Cochlear Lead - A cochlear lead includes a plurality of electrodes configured to stimulate an auditory nerve from within a cochlea and a flexible body supporting the plurality of electrodes along a length of the flexible body. A stiffening element is slidably encapsulated within the flexible body and positioned such that the stiffening element plastically deforms upon insertion into a curved portion of the cochlea. | 2011-12-01 |
20110295353 | PATENT BODY LUMEN STENT - A stent implantable in a patent body lumen. The stent comprises a contiguous wire body having a plurality of sequential reversal coils that, when deployed in the patent lumen, are each configured to conform to the shape of the patent lumen and collectively have sufficient radial strength to prevent substantial narrowing of the patent lumen. | 2011-12-01 |
20110295354 | STENT DELIVERY SYSTEM WITH PUSHER ASSEMBLY - A pusher assembly for a stent delivery device includes a distal end of an elongate member and a stent-engaging member having proximal and distal ends. The proximal end of the stent-engaging member is mechanically coupled to the distal end of the inner member by a connector, or the proximal end of the stent-engaging member is at least partially inside the distal end of the elongate inner member. The stent-engaging member includes a portion that radially outwardly extends towards the distal end of the stent-engaging member, or the stent-engaging member includes a portion that radially outwardly extends towards the distal end of the stent-engaging member. The stent-engaging member is configured to move a stent when distally advanced and configured to not move a stent when proximally retracted. A stent delivery device includes an elongate outer member, an elongate inner member coaxially positioned within the outer member, and the pusher assembly. | 2011-12-01 |
20110295355 | BLOUSED STENT-GRAFT AND FENESTRATION METHOD - A method includes deploying a bloused stent-graft into a main vessel such that a bloused section of the bloused stent-graft covers a branch vessel emanating from the main vessel. The bloused section includes loose graft cloth. A pressure differential between the main vessel and the branch vessel causes the bloused section to be forced into an ostium of the branch vessel creating a pocket aligned with the branch vessel. A distal tip of a puncture device is located in the pocket and thus aligned with the branch vessel. An outward force is applied to the puncture device to cause the distal tip of the puncture device to fenestrate the bloused section thus creating a collateral opening in the bloused section precisely aligned with the branch vessel. | 2011-12-01 |
20110295356 | STENT HAVING OPTIMIZED EXPANSION RATIO - An intravascular stent has an elongated tubular member that has a manufactured inner diameter and a manufactured outer diameter. The nominal expansion outer diameter (implanted diameter) is approximately 1.618 times larger than the manufactured outer diameter, which is referred to the Golden Ratio. The Golden Ratio provides for optimal crimping and expansion aesthetics, stent expansion uniformity, and uniform coatability for stent receiving a drug coating. | 2011-12-01 |
20110295357 | Abdominal Aortic Stent - An abdominal aortic stent includes a first sub-stent and a second sub-stent, each having a front end and the circumference of the front end of each sub-stent is half of the circumference of the abdominal aorta, and when the circumference is gradually reduced to a rear end of each sub-stent, it has entered one side of the bilateral femoral arteries, wherein the rear ends of the sub-stents with full circumference of the cross-sectional area of the femoral artery are included therein; the first and second sub-stents are coated with external removable membrane to compress the sub-stents to generate smaller circumferences, and when the membrane has been removed, the sub-stents are fully extended to reconstruct the vascular flow path. | 2011-12-01 |
20110295358 | ENDOLUMINAL PROSTHESIS - An endoluminal prosthesis ( | 2011-12-01 |
20110295359 | Stent With Reduced Weld Profiles and a Closed-End Wire Configuration - A method for making an implantable stent includes the steps of (i) providing a plurality of elongate stent wires; (ii) forming said wires into a hollow tubular structure having opposed first and second open ends; (iii) terminating said wires at the second end; (iv) aligning the wires at the second end into a plurality of mated adjacent wires to define a plurality of abutting regions; (v) welding the mated adjacent wires to one and the other at the abutting regions to define a plurality of welds; and optionally (vi) chemically or electro-chemically removing a portion of the welds. The method may further include the steps of (a) extending at least one of the mated stent wires to provide an extended stent wire; (b) looping the extended stent wire so the extended end abuts a proximal pair of stent wires; and (c) welding the extended and looped wire to the proximal pair of wires. The step of looping may include the forming of the wire into a equilaterally arched loop having an apex, but not having other sharp bends. | 2011-12-01 |
20110295360 | STENT - A stent includes a plurality of wavy annular bodies each formed in an annular shape from a wavy linear member, and a connection part provided between the adjacent wavy annular bodies, interconnecting the adjacent wavy annular bodies coaxially, weaker than the wavy annular bodies and rupturable. The connection part extends in a slanting manner relative to an axial direction in which the wavy annular bodies are aligned, and interconnects that one inflexed part of one wavy annular body which is curved in a shape projected toward the other wavy annular body adjacent to the one wavy annular body and that the other inflexed part of the other wavy annular body which is curved in a shape projected toward the one wavy annular body. | 2011-12-01 |
20110295361 | Catheter Deliverable Artificial Multi-Leaflet Heart Valve Prosthesis and Intravascular Delivery System for a Catheter Deliverable Heart Valve Prosthesis - A heart valve prosthesis includes a collapsible stent and a one-piece multi-leaflet valve. The stent includes at least one length of wire having a series of turns forming a spring-like stent. The one-piece multi-leaflet valve is attached to the stent and includes a cylinder of polyester material secured thereto at three points. The stent is collapsible in a radial direction between a contracted state and an expanded state. The contracted state has a radial dimension smaller than a radial dimension of the expanded state. The stent is spring biased toward the expanded state such that it occupies an active state when implanted into a heart. The active state has a radial dimension that is between the radial dimension of the contracted state and the radial dimension of the expanded state such that a radial load generated by the bias of the collapsible stent is sufficient to retain the heart valve prosthesis in the heart. | 2011-12-01 |
20110295362 | PROSTHESIS FOR RETRIEVAL AND DEPLOYMENT - The present disclosure relates to devices and methods for implanting a prosthesis into a heart of a mammal, such as a person. The disclosure includes a prosthesis that acts as a pressure vent between the left and right atria of the heart. The disclosure also includes a mounting tool for mounting the prosthesis onto a loading tool, the loading tool useful for loading the prosthesis onto a device for delivering the prosthesis into the patient's heart. Control devices and methods for using these devices are also disclosed. The intracardiac pressure vents disclosed allow sufficient flow from the left atrium to the right atrium to relieve elevated left atrial pressure and resulting patient symptoms. The devices also limit the amount of flow from the right atrium to the left atrium to minimize the potential for thrombi or other embolic material from entering arterial circulation. | 2011-12-01 |
20110295363 | Prosthetic Heart Valve And Transcatheter Delivered Endoprosthesis Comprising A Prosthetic Heart Valve And A Stent - The invention relates to a prosthetic heart valve ( | 2011-12-01 |
20110295364 | APPARATUS AND METHOD OF USING MARKERS TO POSITION STENTS IN BIFURCATIONS - The present invention provides methods and systems for placing stent systems at vascular bifurcations. The systems include a main branch stent having a side opening, optionally including a side structure, with radiopaque fluoroscopic markers about the periphery of the opening. The stent system further includes a side branch stent having radiopaque markers near at least end thereof. The main branch stent is positioned in the main blood vessel lumen using the markers for proper positioning. After deploying the main branch stent, the side branch stent is positioned through an opening within the side branch. Using the markers on both the main branch stent and the side branch stent, proper alignment and positioning of the two stents relative to each other may be achieved. | 2011-12-01 |
20110295365 | Anti-viral compositions and methods for administration - Certain embodiments disclosed relate to compositions, including therapeutic compositions, methods, articles of manufacture, systems, and devices. Certain embodiments relate to anti-viral compositions, methods, articles of manufacture, systems and devices. | 2011-12-01 |
20110295366 | MOUNTING TOOL FOR LOADING A PROSTHESIS - The present disclosure relates to devices and methods for implanting a prosthesis into a heart of a mammal, such as a person. The disclosure includes a prosthesis that acts as a pressure vent between the left and right atria of the heart. The disclosure also includes a mounting tool for mounting the prosthesis onto a loading tool, the loading tool useful for loading the prosthesis onto a device for delivering the prosthesis into the patient's heart. Control devices and methods for using these devices are also disclosed. The intracardiac pressure vents disclosed allow sufficient flow from the left atrium to the right atrium to relieve elevated left atrial pressure and resulting patient symptoms. The devices also limit the amount of flow from the right atrium to the left atrium to minimize the potential for thrombi or other embolic material from entering arterial circulation. | 2011-12-01 |
20110295367 | Intraocular implant cell migration inhibition system - Generally, an intraocular implant and methods for treating an ocular condition. In particular, an intraocular implant which implanted between an intraocular lens and the surface of the posterior capsule of the eye inhibits migration of residual lens epithelial cells after cataract surgery by providing structural barriers to reduce posterior capsule opacification of the eye. | 2011-12-01 |
20110295368 | ACCOMMODATIVE INTRAOCULAR LENS ASSEMBLY - An intraocular optic assembly including an anterior haptic member and a posterior haptic member arranged to correspond to anterior and posterior portions of a capsular bag, respectively, having an anterior-posterior axis passing centrally through the anterior and posterior haptic members, bendable link members attached to and between the anterior and posterior haptic members, an optic, and a lever pivotally connected at on end thereof to a first attachment point on a periphery of the optic and connected at an opposite end thereof to a second attachment point on one of the bendable link members, wherein linear movement of one of the anterior and posterior haptic members along the anterior-posterior axis applies a lever force on the optic with the lever that causes the optic to move linearly along the anterior-posterior axis. | 2011-12-01 |
20110295369 | Method of Treating Scoliosis Using a Biological Implant - The present invention is a bone growth stimulating and promoting cytokine type biological implant preferably comprising PTH coated with a controlled release biodegradable coating that is implanted preferably in the concave side of a scoliotically curved spine in combination with a bone growth inhibiting type biological implant preferably comprising methotrexate or like anti-metabolite coated with a controlled release biodegradable coating that is implanted preferably in the convex side of a scoliotically curved spine. The insertion of the biological implant is highly non-invasion, especially as compared to more conventional spine surgical methods, and the biological implant does not decrease spinal mobility or spinal range of motion. | 2011-12-01 |
20110295370 | Spinal Implants and Methods of Use Thereof - The invention encompasses devices and methods for treating one or more damaged, diseased, or traumatized intervertebral discs to reduce or eliminate associated back pain. Specifically, the invention encompasses interspinous spacers, for example, corpectomy spacers that are suitable for insertion into an intervertebral disc space. | 2011-12-01 |
20110295371 | BI-DIRECTIONAL FIXATING TRANSVERTEBRAL BODY SCREWS AND POSTERIOR CERVICAL AND LUMBAR INTERARTICULATING JOINT CALIBRATED STAPLING DEVICES FOR SPINAL FUSION - A self-drilling bone fusion screw apparatus is disclosed which includes at least first and second sliding boxes. A first screw member having a tapered end and a threaded body is disposed within the first sliding box, and a second screw member having a tapered end and a threaded body disposed within the second sliding box. An adjuster adjusts the height of the sliding boxes. The screw members are screwed into vertebral bodies in order to fuse the vertebral bodies together. A plurality of the self-drilling bone fusion screw apparatuses may be attached together and/or integrated via a plate or cage. Also disclosed is a cervical facet staple that includes a curved staple base and at least two prongs attached to the bottom surface of the curved staple base. | 2011-12-01 |
20110295372 | SPINAL SYSTEM AND METHOD INCLUDING LATERAL APPROACH - Embodiments of the invention include devices and methods for implanting a vertebral body spacer. A lateral surgical approach is contemplated with some disclosed procedures. Instruments of some embodiments are insertable into a disc space to achieve distraction, to determine a desired disc space height, and to select a corresponding implant. | 2011-12-01 |
20110295373 | MINIMALLY INVASIVE SPINAL DISTRACTION DEVICES AND METHODS - Systems are provided for reducing the complexity and invasiveness of spinal stabilization procedures and provide an expandable device deliverable to a spinal implantation location. The expandable device can be delivered through a minimally invasive access portal and expanded at the implantation location to manipulate one or more bony structures or maintain a configuration of one or more bony structures. | 2011-12-01 |
20110295374 | IMPLANTABLE JOINT PROSTHESIS - The invention relates to a surgical implant that provides an artificial diarthroidal-like joint, suitable for use in replacing any joint, but particularly suitable for use as an intervertebral disc endoprosthesis. The invention contains two rigid opposing shells, each having an outer surface adapted to engage the surfaces of the bones of a joint in such a way that the shells are immobilized by friction between their outer surfaces and the surfaces of the bone. These outer surfaces are sufficiently rough that large frictional forces strongly resist any slippage between the outer surface and the bone surfaces in the joint. They may be convex, and when inserted into a milled concavity, are immediately mechanically stable. Desirably, the outer surfaces of the shells are adapted to allow for bony ingrowth, which further stabilizes the shells in place. The inner surfaces of the shells are relatively smooth, and adapted to slide easily across a portion of the outer surface of a central body disposed between the shells. The central body has a shape that cooperates with the shape of the inner surface of the shell so as to provide a range of motion similar to that provided by a healthy joint. A flexible sheath extends between edges of the opposing shells. The inner surface of this sheath, together with the inner surfaces of the rigid shells, defines a cavity encasing the central body. At least a portion of this cavity is filled with a fluid lubricant, further decreasing the frictional force between inner surfaces of the shell and the surface of the central body. | 2011-12-01 |
20110295375 | Allogenic Articular Cavity Prosthesis and Method for Implanting the Same - An articular cavity prosthesis comprises a block extending along a central axis and including a top section and a base section, the top section having an articular bearing surface extending transverse to the central axis and a supporting surface opposite the articular bearing surface configured to contact a surface of a bone on which the block is to be mounted, the base section having a fixing protrusion protruding outward from the supporting surface along the central axis and having a volume V, the block being formed of human tissue. | 2011-12-01 |
20110295376 | Method And Apparatus For Trialing A Modular Humeral Head - The present disclosure is directed to a modular shoulder prosthesis measuring device having an adjustable radial offset provided by relative rotation of an adapter interdisposed between the stem and the head. Specifically, the interface configuration between the stem and the adapter, as well as between the adapter and the head are designed such that relative positioning of these components provides a continuous adjustment in the radial offset. Indicia are provided to precisely determine the magnitude and direction of the adjustment being made. | 2011-12-01 |
20110295377 | ORTHOPAEDIC IMPLANT SYSTEM AND FASTENERS FOR USE THEREIN - Orthopaedic assemblies including a tibial component and one of a fixed tibial insert or a rotatable tibial insert. The assemblies may include structure to prevent undesired movement between the tibial component and insert. For example, a retaining tab may be provided on the tibial component that couples to a tab opening on a surface of the tibial insert (either the fixed or rotatable insert). When assembled, the retaining tab may be covered to avoid possible irritation to the patient's surrounding anatomy. The fixed tibial insert may be provided with a tab opening that provides a minimal amount clearance with the retaining tab to help prevent rotation of the fixed tibial insert. The rotatable tibial insert may be provided with a tab opening with more clearance with the retaining tab to allow at least some rotation with the tibial component. | 2011-12-01 |
20110295378 | Patient-Adapted and Improved Orthopedic Implants, Designs and Related 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. | 2011-12-01 |
20110295379 | EXPANDABLE JOINT IMPLANT - A soft, expandable, implantable device sized for spacing between small bones comprising a first smooth surface on which a first small bone may slide. Implant ( | 2011-12-01 |
20110295380 | SEMI-CONSTRAINED ANKLE PROSTHESIS HAVING A ROTATING BEARING INSERT - A semi-constrained ankle prosthesis includes a tibial component configured to be coupled to a surgically-prepared surface of the distal end of a tibia, and a bearing insert locked to the tibial component. The bearing insert is rotative relative to the tibial component and has an articular surface formed in an inferior surface thereof. | 2011-12-01 |
20110295381 | Bimetal acetabular component construct for hip joint prosthesis - This invention provides for a novel orthopedic prosthesis, specifically a prosthetic acetabular component for a prosthetic total hip joint, that comprises two constructs, one being a metal base construct that engages the bone and the other being a polyethylene bearing construct that attaches to the metal base construct and articulates with a femoral stem prosthetic component on the opposing side of the joint. The metal base construct is composed of two different metals, one of which engages the bone surface and the other of which engages the polyethylene bearing construct. Each of these metals is selected so that its characteristics are well suited to its particular function. More particularly, the first metal (i.e., the one that engages the bone surface) is selected so as to provide a superior bone-engaging face, while the second metal (i.e., the one that engages the polyethylene bearing construct) is selected so as to provide a superior polyethylene-engaging face. By combining the different material characteristics of two different metals in the metal bone construct, it is possible to simultaneously form a superior bone-engaging face and a superior polyethylene-engaging face. | 2011-12-01 |
20110295382 | PROSTHETIC IMPLANT SUPPORT STRUCTURE - A prosthetic system that includes a prosthetic implant and a support structure secured to an inner surface of the cavity in the end of the bone is disclosed. The support structure defines a channel that extends through the length of the support structure. The prosthetic implant is received in the channel, and a portion of the prosthetic implant is secured to an inner surface of the channel by an adhesive. The stem of the prosthesis beyond the channel may be cemented or uncemented. The support structure may have an approximately funnel shape. The support structure may be a hollow porous cylindrical sleeve. The support structure may comprise a pair of partially hemispherical components arranged in spaced apart relationship thereby defining a channel between the pair of components. The support structure may comprise a plurality of pedestals secured to the inner surface of the cavity of the bone. | 2011-12-01 |
20110295383 | BONE SUBSTITUTE MATERIAL FOR MEDICAL USE AND METHOD OF PRODUCING THE SAME - There is disclosed a bone substitute material for medical use which satisfies all the requirements of (1) no histotoxicity, (2) osteoconductivity, (3) bone replacement capability, and (4) mechanical strength necessary for a bone reconstruction operation. The bone substitute material for medical use is predominantly composed of carbonate apatite and produced through the formation of carbonate apatite by contacting a block of calcium compound with a phosphate-containing solution, wherein the calcium compound block contains substantially no powders, and at least one of said calcium compound block and said phosphate solution contains a carbonate group, without any sintering. The block of calcium compound is preferably one prepared using an artificially synthesized calcium compound, most preferably a foamed calcium compound. | 2011-12-01 |
20110295384 | CONTROLLING POWER IN A PROSTHESIS OR ORTHOSIS BASED ON PREDICTED WALKING SPEED OR SURROGATE FOR SAME - In some embodiments of a prosthetic or orthotic ankle/foot, a prediction is made of what the walking speed will be during an upcoming step. When the predicted walking speed is slow, the characteristics of the apparatus are then modified so that less net-work that is performed during that step (as compared to when the predicted walking speed is fast). This may be implemented using one sensor from which the walking speed can be predicted, and a second sensor from which ankle torque can be determined. A controller receives inputs from those sensors, and controls a motor's torque so that the torque for slow walking speeds is lower than the torque for fast walking speeds. This reduces the work performed by the actuator over a gait cycle and the peak actuator power delivered during the gait cycle. In some embodiments, a series elastic element is connected in series with a motor that can drive the ankle, and at least one sensor is provided with an output from which a deflection of the series elastic element can be determined. A controller determines a desired torque based on the output, and controls the motor's torque based on the determined desired torque. | 2011-12-01 |
20110295385 | CONTROLLING TORQUE IN A PROSTHESIS OR ORTHOSIS BASED ON A DEFLECTION OF SERIES ELASTIC ELEMENT - In some embodiments of a prosthetic or orthotic ankle/foot, a prediction is made of what the walking speed will be during an upcoming step. When the predicted walking speed is slow, the characteristics of the apparatus are then modified so that less net-work that is performed during that step (as compared to when the predicted walking speed is fast). This may be implemented using one sensor from which the walking speed can be predicted, and a second sensor from which ankle torque can be determined. A controller receives inputs from those sensors, and controls a motor's torque so that the torque for slow walking speeds is lower than the torque for fast walking speeds. This reduces the work performed by the actuator over a gait cycle and the peak actuator power delivered during the gait cycle. In some embodiments, a series elastic element is connected in series with a motor that can drive the ankle, and at least one sensor is provided with an output from which a deflection of the series elastic element can be determined. A controller determines a desired torque based on the output, and controls the motor's torque based on the determined desired torque. | 2011-12-01 |
20110295386 | VALVE SYSTEM FOR PROSTHETICS - A valve system regulates the air pressure in the space(s) between a residual limb, or liner-covered limb, and a hard socket of an external prosthesis, for example, for improving donning and doffing the prosthesis, and/or during walking and other normal use of the prosthesis. The valve system may include a manually-controlled air outlet and inlet valve that may be installed on a distal region of a hard socket, and/or an automatic one-way outlet valve. The manually-controlled valve is preferably opened and closed by twisting of a handle portion of the valve system, wherein partial rotation of the handle portion relative to the base portion of the valve system creates slight separation of the handle and base portions to form a gap through which may pass air from the well of the socket. This simple twisting, or partial rotation, provides a valve that stays open hands-free, so that the wearer may open the valve and then use his/her hands to don or doff the prosthesis. The manual valve may include a system for preventing the handle and base from becoming entirely separated during normal use, which preferably is a snap-fit of the base onto the handle that retains the ability of the handle and base to rotate relative to each other, and a stop(s) that limit(s) the amount of relative rotation of the handle and base portions of the valve. Opening and closing of the manual valve may be accomplished by a ramp system, so that, upon rotation of the handle in one direction, the handle comes close to, and seals with, the base, and upon rotation of the handle in the opposite direction, the handle becomes slightly distanced from, and unsealed from, the base. | 2011-12-01 |
20110295387 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR INTEGRATED DEVICE CONTROL CONSIDERING THE FUNCTIONS AND STATES OF DEVICES - Device integrated-control according to user's needs. A device information providing method for a device integrated-control includes receiving device capability and status information from one or more devices, determining a device-based usage goal example capable of achieving the predetermined aim by using the received device capability and status information, and planning the at least one actions, which have to be executed to attain the device-based usage goal example, for the respective devices, providing information about at least one capability of a device necessary for attaining a usage goal example, which is capable of satisfying user's needs, from the device to a device integrated-controller and providing information about statuses of at least one of the device and content for executing the at least one capabilities from the predetermined device to the device integrated-controller. | 2011-12-01 |
20110295388 | LADDER PROGRAM EDITION DEVICE - When constituting a ladder program edition device that edits a ladder diagram, there is provided an edit control unit that generates data of a logical expression corresponding to a logical structure of an input condition and an output condition in a ladder diagram based on an arrangement of circuit elements in a ladder diagram, sets circuit elements that specify the input condition as one circuit unit of one input and one output for each input condition based on the data of the above logical expression, and connects output ends of circuit units to be connected in parallel with each other in the ladder diagram. With this configuration, generation of a syntactically erroneous ladder diagram is prevented. | 2011-12-01 |
20110295389 | LIGHTING CONTROL NETWORK - A control system ( | 2011-12-01 |
20110295390 | APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR MODELING AND CONTROL OF CROSS-DIRECTION FIBER ORIENTATION PROCESSES - A method includes generating a model associated with cross-directional fiber orientation of a web, which includes identifying spatial frequency characteristics of a fiber orientation (FO) process. The method also includes providing the model for control of the FO process. Generating the model could include performing a spatial impulse test of the FO process, and long wavelength responses of the FO process can be identified by performing a spatial long wavelength test of the FO process or by retrieving information from a historical database. Actuator edge padding can be applied to the model in order to generate a controller model. A controller can be used to control the process based on the controller model. At least one parameter of the controller model can be dynamically adjusted during operation of the controller. The controller can change average fiber orientation angle profiles and twist profiles by only adjusting slice lip actuators in a headbox. | 2011-12-01 |
20110295391 | Method and System for Closed-Loop Controller Programming - A system, method, and computer readable medium. A method includes receiving input for a simulation model, the simulation model including a sensor. The method includes concurrently executing the simulation model and control code for a simulated physical controller, where the control code interacts with the simulation model according to a state of the sensor. The method includes generating revised control code based on the executed simulation model and control code, and generating controller-specific control code based on the revised control code. The method includes executing the simulation model and the controller-specific control code, the controller-specific control code interacting with the simulation model. | 2011-12-01 |
20110295392 | DETECTING REACTIONS AND PROVIDING FEEDBACK TO AN INTERACTION - Reaction information of participants to an interaction may be sensed and analyzed to determine one or more reactions or dispositions of the participants. Feedback may be provided based on the determined reactions. The participants may be given an opportunity to opt in to having their reaction information collected, and may be provided complete control over how their reaction information is shared or used. | 2011-12-01 |
20110295393 | USING A PROCESSING DEVICE AS A DOCK FOR A MEDIA PLAYER - By integrating multiple electronic devices, it is possible to increase the functionality of the devices individually. For example it is possible to improve media playback functionality, create media playlists “on-the-go” and to use a first device power supply to charge the power supply of the second device. By integrating the devices, it is possible to address some of the shortcomings of devices that are decreasing in size with increasing power requirements, while still maintaining the advantages that these devices offer. | 2011-12-01 |
20110295394 | METHOD FOR OUTPUTTING AUDIO DATA HAVING SPECIFIC AUDIO FORMAT TO AUDIO OUTPUT DEVICE AND ASSOCIATED CIRCUIT AND MULTIMEDIA PLAYER - A method for outputting audio data having a specific audio format to an audio output device includes: selecting the specific audio format from among a plurality of audio formats according to a table, wherein the table comprises information indicating which audio format is recommended for the audio output device; and outputting the audio data having the specific audio format to the audio output device. | 2011-12-01 |
20110295395 | PLAYBACK SPEED CONTROL APPARATUS AND PLAYBACK SPEED CONTROL METHOD - A playback speed control apparatus, which controls play-back speed according to rotation of an operation unit ( | 2011-12-01 |
20110295396 | CONTROL DEVICE, CONTROL METHOD, AND PROGRAM - The present invention relates to a control device, a control method, and a program capable of improving operability with a simpler configuration. | 2011-12-01 |
20110295397 | MUSIC HEADPHONES FOR MANUAL CONTROL OF AMBIENT SOUND - A headphone and method for allowing manually controlled reception of ambient sound by a user. More particularly, the invention relates to a headphone for listening to an audio signal while allowing varying amounts of ambient sound to the user. In one aspect, the headphone comprises a manually-controllable physical characteristic that controls the amount of ambient sound accessible to the user. The physical characteristic can be sound ports that can be opened or closed. In another aspect, the headphone can comprise a microphone receptive of ambient sound, wherein the user can control the proportion of sound that comes from the ambient sound or the audio signal. The microphone can be part of a noise cancellation system. | 2011-12-01 |
20110295398 | SLICING METHOD FOR RAPID PROTOTYPING APPARATUS - A slicing method for a rapid prototyping apparatus with a printing module is provided, which comprises the following steps: (a) accessing data of plural cut points generated from a slicing plane of an object intersecting with plural grids; (b) determining whether a printing module performs an achromatic color printing or not; (c) if yes, connecting two cut points to form a first slicing outline based on the data of the plural cut points, wherein the cut points are generated from the slicing plane intersecting with each grid; (d) checking whether a discontinuous plane exists in the first slicing outline or not, wherein if yes, cut points are paired with a polar coordinate, a connecting path with a smaller included angle is selected, and the first slicing outline connects with the connecting path to form a closed slicing outline to perform an achromatic inkjet printing in the closed slicing outline. | 2011-12-01 |
20110295399 | ROBOT INTERACTION SYSTEM - In the case of a robot interaction system comprising a robot ( | 2011-12-01 |
20110295400 | METHOD FOR PREPARING A PERFUME WITHIN A SYSTEM COMPRISING A PLURALITY OF INTERACTIVE TERMINALS FOR FORMULATING PERFUMES AND A SERVER CONFIGURED TO EXCHANGE DATA WITH THE PLURALITY OF TERMINALS - A method of dispensing at least one test scent within a system includes a server configured to exchange data with a plurality of interactive scent-formulation terminals, each interactive terminal including a plurality of odorous substances, serving when combined in various proportions to create a plurality of scents; dispenser means for dispensing a selection of the odorous substances out from the terminal; a network interface enabling the terminal to communicate with the server; and a user interface; in which method the server automatically sends data to at least one terminal, the data describing at least one formulation enabling the terminal to dispense a test scent, while leaving the user of the terminal free to select the moment at which the test scent is dispensed. | 2011-12-01 |
20110295401 | Programmable Sensor Suitable for Controlling Yarn Feed to a Textile Machine and Method for the Programming Thereof - Sensor for controlling thread or yarn feed to a textile machine wherein a body or casing suitable for being arranged on a support of the machine or positioned near to it and having detection methods suitable for detecting at least one feed characteristic of the yarn to the machine. In the casing or body of the sensor, resources are provided for control of the detection and suitable for modifying the modes of control according to a plurality of control algorithms stored in memory associated with the casing; associated with the latter, selector methods are also provided suitable for allowing a user to choose one of the algorithms, thus selecting the desired operating mode of the sensor during its yarn feed control. The method for selecting desired sensor operating mode is also disclosed. | 2011-12-01 |
20110295402 | DENTAL PROSTHESIS CONNECTOR DESIGN - Presented herein are methods, systems, devices, and computer-readable media for dental prosthesis connector design. Embodiments include providing a computer-based interface for manipulating a connector that connects a first dental restoration component and a second dental restoration component in a dental prosthesis; providing, via a cross-sectional representation of the connector, an acceptability design constraint for the connector, such as whether the connector meets production constraints and/or encompasses the intersection between neighboring teeth; modifying the connector based on operator input; determining whether the modified connector is acceptable with respect to the acceptability design constraint; and providing an acceptability indication for the modified connector, wherein said acceptability indication is determined based at least in part on whether the modified connector is acceptable with respect to the acceptability design constraint. | 2011-12-01 |
20110295403 | SIMULATION PARAMETER CORRECTION TECHNIQUE - A parameter correction method includes: obtaining, from a variability-aware simulation, a simulation result value of a predetermined product performance for a reference candidate value set concerning statistics of predetermined product characteristics; calculating a likelihood by substituting the reference candidate value set, the obtained simulation result value, statistics of measurement values of the predetermined product characteristics and a measurement value of the predetermined product performance into a likelihood function that is defined from a probability density function for the statistics of the predetermined product characteristics and a probability density function for the predetermined product performance, and is a function to calculate a combined likelihood of the statistics of the predetermined product characteristics and the predetermined product performance; and searching for a reference candidate value set in case where the calculated likelihood becomes maximum, by carrying out the obtaining and the calculating plural times while changing the reference candidate value set. | 2011-12-01 |
20110295404 | METHOD FOR CASTING USING SIMULATION OF CASTING PROCESS, SYSTEM FOR CASTING USING SIMULATION OF CASTING PROCESS AND DATA BASE - A method and a system for casting using simulation of casting process. The system includes at least a database ( | 2011-12-01 |
20110295405 | METHOD OF CALCULATING TEMPERATURE DISTRIBUTION OF CRUCIBLE - Provided is a method of calculating a temperature distribution with higher accuracy than a conventional method, which calculates a temperature distribution of an inner surface of a silica powder molded body during manufacturing based on boundary conditions corrected in accordance with the actually measured temperature in consideration of plasma radiation by arc discharge and heat radiation of arc discharge. | 2011-12-01 |
20110295406 | Method for Monitoring Sequencing of a Control Recipe for a Batch Process - A method for monitoring sequencing of a control recipe for a batch process, wherein the recipe comprises a plurality of recipe elements and is displayable on a display unit of a batch or operator system. In order to simplify the monitoring of the sequence of the control recipe a respective recipe-element-specific rule is created for each of the plurality of recipe elements, compliance with the respective recipe-element-specific rule is monitored for each of the plurality of recipe elements during run-time of the control recipe, each recipe element of the plurality of recipe elements is automatically classified into one of a plurality of problem levels if the respective recipe-element-specific rule for a respective recipe element of the plurality of recipe elements is not complied with, and recipe elements of the plurality of recipe elements that have been classified are displayed, together with the respective problem level, on the display unit in tabular form. | 2011-12-01 |
20110295407 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR CONDITION MONITORING OF VALVE - In the method and apparatus of the invention, the process point is taken into account when the condition and performance of a control valve are monitored. In the condition monitoring of the valve, process measurements are used in addition to measurements inside the valve in such a manner that the process measurements identify the operating point at which the valve operates, and the measurements inside the valve are observed at these operating points to detect changes and to determine the condition of the valve. According to an aspect of the invention, the variables representing the operating point of an industrial process are considered when changes in the friction load of the valve and/or the load factor of the actuator are observed. | 2011-12-01 |
20110295408 | PROCESS FOR POSITIONING A WORKPIECE - A process for accurately determining a workpiece position in relation to a reference coordinate system is provided. The process includes providing a machine having a table and a machine coordinate system, determining locations of three reference geometric aspects of the table, providing a workpiece, and attaching the workpiece to the table. Thereafter, locations of three geometrical aspects of the workpiece are determined using photogrammetry followed by calculation of any offset between the three reference geometrical aspects of the table and the three geometrical aspects of the workpiece. Any offset that has been determined can then be used to accurately determine the workpiece position in relation to the reference coordinate system. | 2011-12-01 |
20110295409 | Machine for Producing Packaging Cushioning - A machine for producing packaging cushioning generally includes a first feed mechanism for successively feeding sheets of a substrate at a first speed, the first feed mechanism including a motor and a power supply therefor, a second feed mechanism for receiving the sheets from the first feed mechanism and feeding the sheets at a second speed, a control unit for controlling at least one of the first and second speeds to produce a desired degree of overlap between successive sheets, and a sensor to measure the amount of electricity drawn by the motor. The control unit modulates the amount of electricity that the motor draws from a power supply when a signal from the sensor has a value that is greater than or equal to a predetermined value. | 2011-12-01 |
20110295410 | EMBROIDERY DATA CREATION APPARATUS AND NON-TRANSITORY COMPUTER-READABLE MEDIUM STORING EMBROIDERY DATA CREATION PROGRAM - An embroidery data creation apparatus includes a storage portion that stores pattern information for a first pattern, a first point specification portion that specifies first feature points, a first area specification portion that specifies first partitioned areas bounded by line segments linking the first feature points, an image acquisition portion that acquires a second image, a second point specification portion that specifies second feature points that correspond to the respective first feature points, a second area specification portion that specifies second partitioned areas bounded by line segments linking the second feature points, a conversion portion that, based on positional relationships between the first and second feature points, converts information of the pattern information that corresponds to the first partitioned areas into information that corresponds to the plurality of second partitioned areas, and a first creation portion that creates embroidery data for sewing the second pattern based on the information. | 2011-12-01 |
20110295411 | System And Method For Managing Reassignment Of Units Among Shipments In A Materials Handling Facility - Various embodiments of a system and method for managing reassignment of units among shipments in a materials handling facility are described. Embodiments may include a system configured to identify a first unit of a particular item that has been picked from inventory of a materials handling facility and assigned to a first shipment. The system may also, from multiple candidate shipments, identify a second shipment that requires a given unit of the particular item in order to become a complete shipment. For each candidate shipment, at least one unit of that shipment may be stored within a defined storage area of a materials handling facility. The system may, in response to identifying both shipments, generate an instruction to reassign the first unit of the particular item from the first shipment to the second shipment in order to transform the second shipment from an incomplete shipment to a complete shipment. | 2011-12-01 |
20110295412 | System And Method For Managing Shipment Release From A Storage Area Of A Material Handling Facility - Various embodiments of a system and method for managing shipment release from a storage area in a materials handling facility are described. Embodiments may include a system configured to identify multiple shipments that each includes one or more units that are eligible to be conveyed from a storage area to a respective packing station in a materials handling facility. The identification of a given shipment may include determining that shipment is compatible with a packing capability of the packing station. The system may be configured to evaluate each respective shipment according to one or more shipment-related criteria to generate a ranking of at least some of the multiple shipments. The system may, in response to determining that a particular shipment is ranked highest relative to other shipments of the ranking, generate an instruction to convey the units of that particular shipment from the storage area to the respective packing station. | 2011-12-01 |
20110295413 | System And Method For Managing Shipment Release From A Storage Area Of A Material Handling Facility - Various embodiments of a system and method for managing shipment release from a storage area in a materials handling facility are described. Embodiments may include a system configured to determine that a shipment including multiple units is expected to be conveyed from a storage area to a packing station in a materials handling facility. The system may also be configured to evaluate each respective unit of the shipment according to one or more criteria related to physical characteristics of the unit in order to generate an order in which the units of the shipment are to be provided to the packing station. The system may also be configured to generate an instruction to provide the units of the shipment to the packing station according to the generated order. | 2011-12-01 |
20110295414 | WORKPIECE CARRIER AND WORKPIECE POSITIONING SYSTEM AND METHOD - A workpiece carrier for supporting a plurality of workpieces, the workpiece carrier comprising a supporting body including a plurality of workpiece support elements, each for supporting a workpiece and providing for individual positioning of the same, the workpiece support elements each including at least one biasing element for applying a biasing force to an edge of the respective workpiece, at least one first cam for acting on an edge of the respective workpiece at a first location against the bias of the at least one biasing element, and at least one second cam for acting on an edge of the respective workpiece at a second location against the bias of the at least one biasing element, wherein the at least one first cam and the at least one second cam are operable such as to enable the position of the respective workpiece to be set relative to the supporting body. | 2011-12-01 |
20110295415 | REMOTE TRANSACTION SYSTEM UTILIZING COMPACT ANTENNA ASSEMBLY - A remote transaction system for contactless payment and user identification at dispensers, payment terminals, kiosks, or points-of-sale is provided. The remote transaction system comprises a compact assembly, a control system, and communications electronics. The compact assembly is adapted to be attached to a surface, such as a bezel, and comprises at least one antenna. Also, the compact assembly may comprise antennas operating at different frequencies and at least one audio or visual element. Further, antenna arrays may be formed comprising a second antenna arrangement separate from the compact assembly and coupled to the surface. The compact assembly and/or a second antenna arrangement may comprise a tuning element, such as a tuning ring. The communications electronics are adapted to wirelessly communicate with at least one remote communications device and provide wireless communications to the control system for processing. A method for attaching the compact assembly to a surface is also provided. | 2011-12-01 |
20110295416 | DOSING AND DISPENSING DEVICE - A hand held medicine dosing and dispensing device ( | 2011-12-01 |
20110295417 | VENDING MACHINE - One embodiment of the vending machine of the present disclosure provides a housing defining a product holding area, a frame positioned in the product holding area, a plurality first product holders removably attached to the frame and configured to hold a first type of product package, a plurality different second product holders configured to hold a second different product package, a plurality of RFID sensors, each RFID sensor attached to a different one of the product holders, a door attached to the housing, a first electronic combination display device and input device attached to the door, a second electronic display device attached to the door and configured in one mode to display advertising or other content, a physical product display area in the door, a signage display area in the door, a payment receiver in the door, a product retrieval area in the door, a lock configured to lock the door to the housing, and a computer control system including at least one processor configured to control various functions of the vending machine. | 2011-12-01 |
20110295418 | SYSTEM, COMPONENTS AND METHODOLOGIES FOR PROVIDING DISRUPTIVE PROMOTIONAL MATERIAL - Disclosed embodiments are directed, generally, to a ticket printing and issuing (e.g., vending) system and associated operations for vending such a ticket in conjunction with promotional material in the form of printed, audio and/or video advertising content, and/or electronic data. This enables distribution of promotional material in conjunction with the generation and distribution of a ticket in a manner that also distributes “disruptive promotional material” to a ticket recipient so as to provide an improved advertising effect in association with the distributed promotional material. In accordance with at least one embodiment of the invention, the ticket is a parking ticket issued in conjunction with a recipient's parking of their automotive vehicle. | 2011-12-01 |
20110295419 | APPLYING WORKSPACE LIMITATIONS IN A VELOCITY-CONTROLLED ROBOTIC MECHANISM - A robotic system includes a robotic mechanism responsive to velocity control signals, and a permissible workspace defined by a convex-polygon boundary. A host machine determines a position of a reference point on the mechanism with respect to the boundary, and includes an algorithm for enforcing the boundary by automatically shaping the velocity control signals as a function of the position, thereby providing smooth and unperturbed operation of the mechanism along the edges and corners of the boundary. The algorithm is suited for application with higher speeds and/or external forces. A host machine includes an algorithm for enforcing the boundary by shaping the velocity control signals as a function of the reference point position, and a hardware module for executing the algorithm. A method for enforcing the convex-polygon boundary is also provided that shapes a velocity control signal via a host machine as a function of the reference point position. | 2011-12-01 |
20110295420 | Autonomous Robot Charging Stations and Methods - A method of charging a robotic device using a charging station is provided. The method includes signaling a controller of the charging station to actuate a moveable barrier of the charging station from a closed configuration to an open configuration. The charging station is recessed into a wall, ceiling and/or floor. The moveable barrier is actuated from the closed configuration to the open configuration thereby exposing an electrical contact of the charging station configured to engage a charging contact of the robotic device for a charging operation. | 2011-12-01 |
20110295421 | DEVICE AND A METHOD FOR RESTORING POSITIONAL INFORMATION OF ROBOT - A device for restoring positional information of a robot provided with a first member and a second member connected movable relative to each other via an articulation axis; a motor moving the second member relative to the first member; and a sensor outputting a sensor signal according to a driving amount of the motor. The device includes an imaging section obtaining an image signal in a region including a first mark and a second mark representing a positional relationship between the first member and the second member; a mark position computation section computing a first positional relationship between the first mark and the second mark at a first time and a second positional relationship between the first mark and the second mark at a second time, based on an image signal obtained by the imaging section at the first time and at the second time; and a correction section correcting positional information depending on a sensor signal output by the sensor after the second time, based on the first positional relationship and the second positional relationship, a first sensor signal output by the sensor at the first time and a second sensor signal output by the sensor at the second time. | 2011-12-01 |
20110295422 | METHOD AND DEVICE FOR CONTROLLING A MANIPULATOR SYSTEM - A method for controlling a manipulator system, such as a robot system, having at least two driven axes connected to a power supply, includes selecting an axis of the manipulator system, monitoring the selected axis for a standstill state, and disconnected the selected axis from the power supply if it is detected that the selected axis is not in the standstill state, while maintaining the other non-selected axis connected to the power supply. | 2011-12-01 |
20110295423 | CONDITION BASED KEEP-OUT FOR MACHINES - The different illustrative embodiments provide a system for autonomous machine management comprising a number of autonomous machines, a number of boundaries, a conditional behavior module, and a navigation system. The number of autonomous machines is configured to perform area coverage tasks in a worksite. The number of nodes is configured to define a number of worksite areas for the worksite. The conditional behavior module is executed by a processor unit and configured to determine whether a number of conditions is met for the number of worksite areas. The navigation system is configured to operate an autonomous machine to perform the area coverage tasks and move between the number of worksite areas when the number of conditions is met. | 2011-12-01 |
20110295424 | MANAGING AUTONOMOUS MACHINES ACROSS MULTIPLE AREAS - The different illustrative embodiments provide a system for autonomous machine management comprising a number of autonomous machines, a number of nodes, a performance estimation module, and a navigation system. The number of autonomous machines is configured to perform area coverage tasks in a worksite. The number of nodes is configured to define a number of worksite areas for the worksite. The performance estimation module is executed by a processor unit and configured to calculate a percentage of work completed in the number of worksite areas. The navigation system is configured to operate an autonomous machine to perform the area coverage tasks and move between the number of worksite areas. | 2011-12-01 |
20110295425 | AUTOMATIC MACHINE AND METHOD FOR CONTROLLING THE SAME - An automatic machine includes N output units, a storage unit and a control unit. The control unit is electrically connected to the output units and the storage unit. The storage unit stores a first reaction pattern corresponding to a first command. The first reaction pattern includes a header and N reaction modes and each of the reaction modes is corresponding to one of the output units. Each of the reaction modes includes M reaction frames. The header records a number of the reaction frames of each reaction mode. The control unit receives the first command, looks the first reaction pattern up in the storage unit according to the first command, and selectively controls at least one of the output units to perform the reaction frames correspondingly according to the header and the reaction modes. | 2011-12-01 |
20110295426 | ROBOTIC SNAKES FOR USE IN NON-DESTRUCTIVE EVALUATION AND MAINTENANCE OPERATIONS - At least one serpentine body is provided for maintenance operations on an object. At least one serpentine body is coupled to at least one sensor, and at least one serpentine body is coupled to at least one tool. The at least one sensor is configured to inspect the object, and the at least one tool is configured to modify the object. | 2011-12-01 |
20110295427 | METHODS AND SYSTEMS FOR INSPECTION SENSOR PLACEMENT - Methods and systems are provided for positioning a remote sensor within a target object. An articulated robotic system is coupled to the remote sensor. A positioning system determines a position of the target object to be inspected and determines a first position of the remote sensor. A control system calibrates a virtual representation of the target object with respect to the position of the target object, and tracks movement of the remote sensor relative to the target object. | 2011-12-01 |
20110295428 | MACHINE MOTION CONTROL SYSTEM - A machine motion control system includes a number of moving parts for securing test electronic devices, a machine and an axis control card mounted on the machine. The machine includes a number of servo modules and a number of sensing units. The servo modules drive and control the corresponding moving parts on the machine. Each sensing unit is electrically connected to a corresponding moving part; the sensing units are operable to sense and transmit location information of the moving parts and the machine. The axis control card is electrically connected to the moving parts, the machine, and the sensing units. The axis control card receives location information of each moving part and processes the location information to generate a corresponding command signal, and transmits the generated command signal to the servo modules to control and adjust the moving parts. | 2011-12-01 |
20110295429 | Method for Controlling a Processing Machine with Driven Axes - A method for controlling a processing machine with driven axes, in particular a printing press, wherein a radius of at least one axis is used to automatically determine a control limiting value. | 2011-12-01 |
20110295430 | Apparatus And Method For Managing Heating Or Cooling Of An Area In A Building - Apparatus for managing heating or cooling of an area in a building which includes a general processing unit adapted to communicate with the internet, a peripheral controller adapted to collect temperature data to control the heating or air conditioning of an area in a building, a central controller which communicates with the general processing unit and the peripheral controller. A motorized damper is controlled by the central controller, and a self auditing system is coupled to the central controller and the peripheral controller to audit remotely for trouble. A neural network engine is coupled to the general processing unit to generate commands to the peripheral controller and the central controller utilizes the temperature difference between the area of space in the building and outside the building to save energy and provide comfort. | 2011-12-01 |
20110295431 | TIME DOMAIN VIBRATION REDUCTION AND CONTROL - A vibration control system includes a mechanical system which generates vibration; a sensor configured to measure the vibration and generate a vibration signal thereof, and a processor configured: (a) receive a vibration signal from a sensor in a mechanical system; (b) model the vibration signal using a time-domain function; (c) adjust one of an amplitude coefficient and a phase coefficient of the modeled vibration signal; (d) output a control signal corresponding to the modeled vibration signal to the mechanical system so as to reduce the vibration; and (e) receive another vibration signal from the sensor. Steps (c)-(e) are repeated when the average value of the vibration signal is greater than a predetermined value. A method for vibration control is also disclosed. | 2011-12-01 |
20110295432 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR SAFE DRUM WATER LEVEL DETERMINATION IN A COMBINED CYCLE OPERATION - A method for controlling a water level of a drum of a heat recovery steam generation system for a combined cycle power plant is provided. The method includes determining an optimum drum water level during start up operation of the heat recovery steam generation system based on a characteristic chart model. The characteristic chart model is generated based on a plurality of vapor pressures of the drum and a plurality of temperatures of drum metal at the time of the start up operation of the heat recovery steam generation system. | 2011-12-01 |
20110295433 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR PROVIDING POWER TO A HYDRAULIC SYSTEM - A method for providing power to a hydraulic system is disclosed. The method includes determining a hydraulic system power demand, determining an energy storage device power demand, and determining a desired parameter of a primary power source based on the hydraulic system power demand. The method further includes providing power to the hydraulic system as a function of the energy storage device power demand and the desired parameter. | 2011-12-01 |
20110295434 | Multiple Volatile Material Dispensing Device And Operating Methodologies Therefore - A dispensing device includes a controller and first and second actuators coupled to the controller and adapted to actuate first and second containers, respectively, to dispense volatile material therefrom. The device further includes a sensor coupled to the controller for detecting an environmental condition. The controller is configured to operate in a first period during which the first and second actuators are inactive, in a second period during which the first actuator is controlled to periodically actuate the first container at a first frequency to dispense volatile material therefrom, and in a third period during which the second actuator is controlled to periodically actuate the second container at a second frequency to dispense volatile material therefrom. If the sensor has detected the environmental condition, the controller is configured to control the first and/or second actuators to periodically actuate the first and/or second containers, respectively, during a fourth period at a third frequency different than the first and second frequencies to dispense volatile material therefrom. | 2011-12-01 |
20110295435 | DIGITAL SHOWER SYSTEM AND OPERATING METHOD FOR WATER MONITORING INFORMATION THEREOF - A digital shower system contains a showering equipment including at least one first watering device and at least one second watering device; an input interface including a power key, a knob, an ok key, a return key, and a plurality of outlet switches; a valve unit including a motor, a mixing valve, and a number of outlet valves; a central process unit including a setting module, a time module, a memory module, a calculator module, and a water monitor module; and an indicator so that quantity of water use is known by the user to save water consumption. | 2011-12-01 |
20110295436 | Engine Generator Control Module - Exemplary embodiments include an engine generator regulator apparatus. The engine generator regulator apparatus can include a voltage regulation module, a governor control module, a metering module operationally coupled to the voltage regulation and governor control modules and an operation module operationally coupled to the metering module, the operation module configured to receive status information from the voltage regulation, governor control and metering modules. | 2011-12-01 |
20110295437 | WIND POWER CONVERTER SYSTEM WITH GRID SIDE REACTIVE POWER CONTROL - The present techniques include methods and systems for operating a wind power system to maintain a lifespan of the rotor side converter. In some embodiments, the current of the rotor side converter may be minimized to reduce the stress and/or junction temperature variation in the switching transistors and bond wires of the converter. More specifically, embodiments involve using a minimal current in the rotor side converter based on the rotor side and grid side reactive powers. If the grid side reactive power is greater than a maximum grid side reactive power, the grid side reactive power may be reduced. Further, if the total reactive power does not meet the grid reactive power requirements, the minimal current in the rotor side converter may be adjusted such that the system may sufficiently power the grid. | 2011-12-01 |
20110295438 | Wind and Power Forecasting Using LIDAR Distance Wind Sensor - A wind turbine power management system and method includes one or more wind turbines at a wind farm and one or more laser sources used to measure wind conditions remote from the wind farm. The laser sources may be collocated with the wind turbines, and are able to measure wind conditions at various predetermined ranges from the wind turbines. The laser sources measure wind conditions at locations that provide 10 to 20 seconds of advance notice, and also at locations that provide 50 to 100 seconds of advance notice. Wind condition at locations that provide 500 or more seconds of advance notice are also measured using remote laser sources. | 2011-12-01 |
20110295439 | ELECTRONIC APPARATUS AND COMMUNICATION SYSTEM - According to one embodiment, an electronic apparatus includes one or more first receivers, a transmitter and a change module. The first receivers are configured to receive a command signal which instructs change of a power control state from another electronic apparatus. The transmitter is configured to transmit, to the another electronic apparatus, standby-capability information that includes a communication method adopted by the first receivers and a signal form specifying the command signal. The change module is configured to change the power control state when the first receivers receive the command signal. | 2011-12-01 |
20110295440 | INFORMATION PROCESSING APPARATUS, INFORMATION PROCESSING METHOD, PROGRAM, AND POWER STORAGE APPARATUS MANAGEMENT SYSTEM - In one example embodiment, a power storage management system includes a user terminal, a power storage apparatus and an information processing apparatus. In one example embodiment, the information processing apparatus is configured to, using a mobile communication network (e.g., Global System for Mobile Communications or the Universal Mobile Telecommunications System), communicate with the power storage apparatus. | 2011-12-01 |
20110295441 | DIGITAL CONTROL DEVICE FOR A PARALLEL PMOS TRANSISTOR BOARD - A digital control device for a parallel PMOS transistor board, includes: an operative memory for digitally storing error data between a target voltage and a setpoint voltage as well as control data, each datum being provided with a time marker, a digital selected order filter ( | 2011-12-01 |
20110295442 | Generating a Nonlinear Function for Fan Control - System and method for controlling a fan. A value may be received for controlling the fan. The value may include a first number of bits and may correspond to a linear function of temperature. A first value may be determined using a first number of bits of the value. A modification to the first value may be determined based on a second number of bits of the value. A new output value may be generated based on the first value and the modification to the first value. The new output value may correspond to a first nonlinear function of temperature. The new output value may be provided for controlling the fan. | 2011-12-01 |
20110295443 | MANAGING AN INFRASTRUCTURE HAVING A 3D PACKAGE AND COOLING RESOURCE ACTUATORS - An apparatus for managing an infrastructure having one or more three-dimensional (3D) packages and a plurality of cooling resource actuators, each of the 3D packages including a plurality of heat sources, includes a heat source manager configured to determine heat load profiles of the heat sources. The apparatus also includes a cooling resource manager configured to determine capabilities of the plurality of cooling resource actuators to meet heat load demands of the plurality of heat sources based on the heat load profiles of the plurality of heat sources and an integrated thermal manager configured to match the capabilities of the plurality of cooling resource actuators to the heat load profiles of the plurality of heat sources. | 2011-12-01 |
20110295444 | METHODS AND SYSTEMS FOR IMPLEMENTING AND ENFORCING SECURITY AND RESOURCE POLICIES FOR A VEHICLE - In one or more embodiments, a vehicle resource usage control system includes a vehicle computer having security policies that define usage rules for one or more vehicle resources. One or more devices communicating with the vehicle computer may have installed in memory software applications that use one or more vehicle resources for operation. Programmed instructions may be received that define which of the one or more vehicle resources the software applications use for operation. These programmed instructions may be associated with the one or more security policies. The security policy associated with the software applications may be determined based on the programmed instructions. Operation of the software applications may be permitted according to the security policy. | 2011-12-01 |