51st week of 2012 patent applcation highlights part 57 |
Patent application number | Title | Published |
20120323300 | POWER AND/OR SIGNAL TRIGGER WIRE FOR AN ENDOVASCULAR DELIVERY SYSTEM - An endovascular graft delivery system includes an endovascular prosthetic device and one or more trigger wires deployably engaging portions of the endovascular prosthetic device. An electrical element is positioned at a proximal end of a trigger wire. The electrical element is in signal communication with the trigger wire to communicate operational signals over the trigger wire. The operational signals may be power or control signals to assist with positioning the endovascular prosthetic device at a desired deployment location. | 2012-12-20 |
20120323301 | Medical Device Balloons with Improved Strength Properties and Processes for Producing the Same - A tubular parison for forming a medical device balloon. The parison is formed of a polymeric material, for instance a thermoplastic elastomer. The parison has an elongation at break which is not more than 80% of the elongation of the bulk polymeric material. The elongation of the parison is controlled by altering extrusion conditions. Balloons prepared from the parisons provide higher wall strength and/or higher inflation durability than balloons prepared from conventional parisons of the same material. | 2012-12-20 |
20120323302 | TRIGGER WIRE ACTIVATION LEVER - An actuation assembly having at least one lever operably connected to one or more trigger wires which are operably connected to a stent retaining device for a stent graft introducer is disclosed. The lever or levers can be extended or detached from the introducer to remove the trigger wires. | 2012-12-20 |
20120323303 | PARAPLEGIA PREVENTION STENT GRAFT - A stent graft ( | 2012-12-20 |
20120323304 | BIASED ENDOLUMINAL DEVICE - An endoluminal device can comprise a flexible tubular wall and a frame member. The frame member can be comprised of a shape-memory material having sides with protrusions which are partially or substantially flattened when formed together with the flexible tubular wall to thereby create a bias in the side wall of the endoluminal device that resists deformation from a desired device profile during crush loading and is thereby resistant to invaginations when deployed. | 2012-12-20 |
20120323305 | STENTS INCORPORATING A PLURALITY OF STRAIN-DISTRIBUTION LOCATIONS | 2012-12-20 |
20120323306 | Removable Covering for Implantable Frame Projections - Medical devices for implantation in a body vessel, and methods of using and making the same, are provided. A medical device can include a frame with one or more projections, each of which can be covered with a biocompatible, water-soluble removable material. The projections can be barbs positioned to engage the interior wall of a body vessel or to attach a material, such as a valve leaflet or graft, to the frame. The removable material can be dissolved within a body vessel upon implantation to expose the covered projection. Methods of making an implantable medical device and methods of treating a subject are also disclosed. | 2012-12-20 |
20120323307 | HYBRID STENT - A stent is provided with a series of short pieces or sections connected together by a bioresorbable polymer. The stent sections are designed to separate or articulate with time as the polymer biodegrades. The time of separation can be controlled by the characteristics of the bioresorbable polymer to allow the stent to be buried in neo-intima. By using a tube made of a bioresorbable polymer, the continuous covering of the tubing may inhibit embolization in the first few weeks after stent implantation within the walls of a vessel and timing for removal of the tube through formulation of the bioresorbable polymer can be controlled to occur when embolization is no longer a risk. When the detachment of the stent pieces or sections occurs, they are fixedly secured within the vessel and each is able to flex with the vessel independently of the other stent segments. | 2012-12-20 |
20120323308 | Coatings for Medical Devices Comprising a Therapeutic Agent and a Metallic Material - The invention relates generally to an implantable medical device for delivering a therapeutic agent to the body tissue of a patient, and a method for making such a medical device. In particular, the invention pertains to an implantable medical device, such as an intravascular stent, having a coating comprising a first coating composition comprising a therapeutic agent and, optionally, a polymer; and a second coating composition comprising a metallic material. | 2012-12-20 |
20120323309 | STENT WITH FLAPS - A medicinal device with a tubular wall made of webs which delimit the cells, and a flexible membrane which forms at least one flap which has a first end connected to at least one first web of a cell, and a free second end which is disposed opposite the first end in the longitudinal direction of the flap. The flap, in the closed position, extends along the tubular wall and at least partially closes the cells, and can be moved to an open position in which the flap is radially deviated in relation to the wall in order to open the cells in a valve-like manner. | 2012-12-20 |
20120323310 | GAMMA-TOCOPHEROL THERAPY FOR RESTENOSIS PREVENTION - The present invention is directed to a drug eluting stent system, including: a stent; a tocopherol agent coupled to the stent; wherein the stent is adapted to elute the tocopherol agent into a surrounding lumenal wall tissue when implanted along the lumen within a body of a patient. | 2012-12-20 |
20120323311 | STENTS HAVING CONTROLLED ELUTION - Provided herein is a device comprising: a. stent; b. a plurality of layers on said stent framework to form said device; wherein at least one of said layers comprises a bioabsorbable polymer and at least one of said layers comprises one or more active agents; wherein at least part of the active agent is in crystalline form. | 2012-12-20 |
20120323312 | STENT FOR ENDOLUMINAL DELIVERY OF ACTIVE PRINCIPLES OR AGENTS - The present invention provides a stent for implantation at a site within a human or animal body comprising: an expandable body having an inner surface and an outer surface; and treatment agents applied to the outer surface of the expandable body, the treatment agents comprising a combination of Paclitaxel and FK506 or their derivatives or analogues. | 2012-12-20 |
20120323313 | PROSTHETIC LEAFLET ASSEMBLY FOR REPAIRING A DEFECTIVE CARDIAC VALVE AND METHODS OF USING THE SAME - Methods and apparatus are provided for repairing or replacing a defective cardiac valve including a prosthetic leaflet assembly having an expandable frame with one or more anchors configured to engage a predetermined region of the defective cardiac valve in an expanded deployed state, and at least one prosthetic leaflet coupled to the expandable frame. The prosthetic leaflet assembly is configured such that the prosthetic leaflet is suspended within a flow path of the defective cardiac valve and coapts with, and improves functioning of, one or more native leaflets of the defective cardiac valve. | 2012-12-20 |
20120323314 | EPICARDIAL CLIP - An epicardial clip for reshaping the annulus of the mitral valve of a heart includes a curved member having an anterior segment configured to be positioned in the transverse sinus of the heart, a posterior segment configured to be positioned on the posterior side of the heart, such as on or inferior to the atrioventricular groove, and a lateral segment extending between the anterior segment and the posterior segment. The lateral segment includes a curve such that the first end of the member is positioned at or above the plane of the mitral valve and the second end of the member is positioned at or below the plane of the mitral valve. | 2012-12-20 |
20120323315 | DURABLE MULTI-LAYER HIGH STRENGTH POLYMER COMPOSITE SUITABLE FOR IMPLANT AND ARTICLES PRODUCED THEREFROM - A thin, biocompatible, high-strength, composite material is disclosed that is suitable for use in various implanted configurations. The composite material maintains flexibility in high-cycle flexural applications, making it particularly applicable to high-flex implants such as heart pacing lead or heart valve leaflet. The composite material includes at least one porous expanded fluoropolymer layer and an elastomer substantially filling substantially all of the pores of the porous expanded fluoropolymer. | 2012-12-20 |
20120323316 | PROSTHETIC APPARATUS FOR IMPLANTATION AT MITRAL VALVE - Embodiments of prosthetics configured for implanting in at the native mitral valve region of the heart include a main body that is radially compressible to a radially compressed state and self-expandable from the compressed state to a radially expanded state. The prosthetic apparatus also comprises at least one ventricular anchor coupled to the main body and disposed outside of the main body with a leaflet-receiving space between the anchor and an outer surface of the main body to receive a native valve leaflet. Methods and apparatus for delivering and implanting the prosthetic valve are also described. | 2012-12-20 |
20120323317 | HEART VALVE PROSTHESIS ANCHORING DEVICE AND METHODS - Apparatus and methods for securing heart valve repair or replacement prostheses in or near the heart. The apparatus and methods are particularly well suited for traditional surgery or minimally invasive surgery. The invention secures a heart valve repair or replacement prosthesis in place while lowering surgical exposure. The invention improves the ease of implantation because it reduces the number of surgical knots a clinician would normally tie in the limited space in and around the heart. | 2012-12-20 |
20120323318 | FLEXIBLE MAGNETIC MEMBRANE BASED ACTUATION SYSTEM AND DEVICES INVOLVING THE SAME - A flexible magnetic membrane based actuation system comprising magnetic nanoparticles loaded into a polymeric material such as polyurethane and adapted to actuation of to and fro pumping motions of the membrane under application of magnetic field on the magnetic nanoparticles loaded membrane. More particularly, the present invention is directed to the said nanoparticles-loaded polyurethane magnetic membrane based actuation system adapted to function as displacement membrane for various activities requiring such to and fro motion. The magnetic membrane actuation is adapted to be controlled using electronic equipments to regulate the rate, force and frequency of displacement pulses. The magnetic membrane is thus capable of providing a simple, bio-compatible and cost effective means for displacement/mechanical work to assist functioning of various gadgets/medical devices including function as an artificial support system for heart, non-responsive diaphragm or a non-responsive sphincter, and thus capable of wide industrial applications. | 2012-12-20 |
20120323319 | INTRACORNEAL DIFFRACTIVE LENS HAVING PHASE INVERSION - The invention relates to an intracorneal diffractive lens having phase inversion, said intracorneal diffractive lens including: a core ( | 2012-12-20 |
20120323320 | ADJUSTABLE INTRAOCULAR LENS - An adjustable intraocular lens is disclosed comprising at least one optical element and at least one haptic. Rotation of the lens in a plane perpendicular to the optical axis and bounded by an oval boundary adjusts the lens diameter which provides a corresponding adjustment of optical power. Preferably the lens according to the invention is adapted to be manipulated by manipulation means outside the eye, for example, surgical means. Adjustment of the angular position of the intraocular lens results in a corresponding adjustment of the lens diameter which, in turn, leads to a corresponding adjustment of the optical power of the lens. | 2012-12-20 |
20120323321 | Intraocular Lenses for Variable Focus - A novel lens for variable focus has two optical elements which simultaneously move in a lateral and an axial direction. The lens also includes variable corrective optics to correct for undesired variable optical aberrations. The lens can be used as an accommodating lens for implantation in the capsular bag. The lens can be driven by either the surfaces of the capsular bag as well as the rim of the capsular bag. | 2012-12-20 |
20120323322 | SURGICAL INSTRUMENT FOR CORPOREAL INTERNAL FIXATION SEPTOPLASTY - A septoplasty instrument having a pair of opposing articulating longitudinal jaws or blades configured to contact the septum or overlying mucosal lining of a patient when the jaws are closed. A guide tube is connected to at least one of the jaws or blades for guiding a fixation wire into the septum, the guide tube having a bore therein that is generally in line with a longitudinal axis of the blades. The blades flatten and straighten a deviated portion of the septum, and the guide tube of the instrument is used to insert a fixation wire into the septum whilst the blades of the septoplasty instrument compressed. The instrument enables a corporeal approach to internal fixation septoplasty. | 2012-12-20 |
20120323323 | MICRO-ALLOYED POROUS METAL HAVING OPTIMIZED CHEMICAL COMPOSITION AND METHOD OF MANUFACTURING THE SAME - A micro-alloyed porous metal is disclosed having an optimized chemical composition to achieve targeted mechanical properties for use as an orthopaedic implant and a cell/soft tissue receptor. The porous metal may achieve a targeted compressive strength and a targeted ductility, for example. These targeted mechanical properties may allow the porous metal to be densified to a low relative density. | 2012-12-20 |
20120323324 | SOFT AND CALCIFIED TISSUE IMPLANTS - Disclosed herein is processed dermis graft for use in orthopedic surgical procedures. Specifically exemplified herein is a processed dermis graft comprising one or more bone blacks having a groove cut into the surface thereof, wherein said groove is sufficient to accommodate a fixation screw. Also disclosed is a method of processing dermis that results in a dermis derived implant suitable to replace a tendon or ligament in a recipient in need thereof. Other compositions and applications of a dermis derived implant, and methods of manufacture and use, are disclosed. | 2012-12-20 |
20120323325 | AUTOLOGOUS IN SITU TISSUE ENGINEERING - A kit that may be used to process autologous skin tissue that is grafted to the patient's wound for in situ growth of new skin tissue may include: a skin collection packet, a skin processing packet, a skin tissue application packet, and a wound preparation packet. | 2012-12-20 |
20120323326 | INSERTION OF ARTIFICIAL/PROSTHETIC FACET JOINTS WITH BALLOTABLE/COMPRESSIBLE JOINT SPACE COMPONENT - A system for replacement of the natural facet joints of the spine is provided. The system is designed to be placed using a minimally-invasive technique, with passage of a unitized prosthesis through a working channel. Alternative embodiments of the prosthesis and method are also provided. The inventor also contemplates a similar system for the cervical and thoracic spine. | 2012-12-20 |
20120323327 | Expandable Spinal Implant and Flexible Driver - Expandable spinal implants and drivers connected by a bendable joint are disclosed. The flexible connector allows the implant and driver to move to different angular orientations with respect to each other, and to apply rotational force or torque from the driver to the implant and its expansion mechanism. During insertion of an implant into the desired position, the driver may be oriented in the same or different direction than the long axis of the implant. After the spinal implant is placed in the desired position, the driver is used to expand the implant in selected dimensions. | 2012-12-20 |
20120323328 | Expandable Fusion Device and Method of Installation Thereof - The present invention provides an expandable fusion device capable of being installed inside an intervertebral disc space to maintain normal disc spacing and restore spinal stability, thereby facilitating an intervertebral fusion. In one embodiment, the fusion device includes a central ramp, a first endplate, and a second endplate, the central ramp capable of being moved in a first direction to move the first and second endplates outwardly and into an expanded configuration. The fusion device is capable of being deployed down an endoscopic tube. | 2012-12-20 |
20120323329 | METHODS AND APPARATUSES FOR VERTEBRAL BODY DISTRACTION AND FUSION EMPLOYING A COAXIAL SCREW GEAR SLEEVE MECHANISM - Improved methods and apparatuses for vertebral body distraction and fusion in accordance with various embodiments of the present invention employ one or more coaxial screw gear sleeve mechanisms. In various embodiments, coaxial screw gear sleeve mechanisms include a post with a threaded exterior surface and a corresponding sleeve configured to surround the post, the corresponding sleeve having a threaded interior surface configured to interface with the threaded exterior surface of the post and a geared exterior surface. A drive mechanism can be configured to interface with the geared exterior surface of the sleeve, causing the device to distract. | 2012-12-20 |
20120323330 | LOW PROFILE INTERVERTEBRAL IMPLANT - The present invention is directed to a low profile intervertebral implant ( | 2012-12-20 |
20120323331 | SPINAL IMPLANT AND INSTRUMENTS - A kit including an artificial implant for insertion between two adjacent vertebrae along a coronal plane. | 2012-12-20 |
20120323332 | SPACERLESS ARTIFICIAL DISC REPLACEMENTS - Spacerless artificial disc replacements (ADR) are disclosed. One preferred embodiment includes two saddle-shaped components to facilitate more normal spinal flexion, extension, and lateral bending while limit axial rotation, thereby protecting the facet joints and the annulus fibrosus (AF). Either or both of the superior and inferior components are made of a hard material such as chrome cobalt, titanium, or a ceramic including alumina, zirconia, or calcium phosphate. The articulating surfaces of the ADR are also preferably highly polished to reduce friction between the components. Metals, alloys or other materials with shape-memory characteristics may also prove beneficial. | 2012-12-20 |
20120323333 | REVISION KNEE TIBIAL LOCKING MECHANISM - A tibial prosthesis assembly can comprise a tibial tray and a tibial insert. The tibial tray can have an inferior bone engaging surface, a superior surface, and a first retaining feature. The tibial insert can have an inferior tray engaging surface, a superior bearing surface, and a second retaining feature. The first and second retaining features can cooperate to inhibit substantial lift-off of the tibial insert away from the superior surface of the tibial tray while permitting a predetermined amount of rotation of the tibial insert around the superior surface in an assembled position. | 2012-12-20 |
20120323334 | FEMORAL PROSTHESIS SYSTEM - A provisional femoral component, in one embodiment, including at least one first visual indicator and at least one second visual indicator, the first and second visual indicators providing indicating means for simultaneously visually representing a first profile of a first femoral prosthesis and a second profile of a second femoral prosthesis. In another embodiment, a provisional femoral component including a patellofemoral flange having two sulci and a central ridge between the two sulci. In this manner, the provisional femoral component can be positioned on a resected distal femur surface of both a right and left knee joint. | 2012-12-20 |
20120323335 | FEMORAL COMPONENT FOR A KNEE PROSTHESIS WITH IMPROVED ARTICULAR CHARACTERISTICS - An orthopaedic knee prosthesis includes a femoral component which exhibits enhanced articular features, minimizes removal of healthy bone stock from the distal femur, and minimizes the impact of the prosthesis on adjacent soft tissues of the knee. | 2012-12-20 |
20120323336 | FEMORAL COMPONENT FOR A KNEE PROSTHESIS WITH IMPROVED ARTICULAR CHARACTERISTICS - An orthopaedic knee prosthesis includes a femoral component which exhibits enhanced articular features, minimizes removal of healthy bone stock from the distal femur, and minimizes the impact of the prosthesis on adjacent soft tissues of the knee. | 2012-12-20 |
20120323337 | FEMORAL COMPONENT FOR A KNEE PROSTHESIS WITH IMPROVED ARTICULAR CHARACTERISTICS - An orthopaedic knee prosthesis includes a femoral component which exhibits enhanced articular features, minimizes removal of healthy bone stock from the distal femur, and minimizes the impact of the prosthesis on adjacent soft tissues of the knee. | 2012-12-20 |
20120323338 | MODULAR PROXIMAL INTERPHALANGEAL JOINT - A method for replacing a proximal interphalangeal joint with a modular implant assembly is provided. During a first surgical procedure, a first stem component of the implant assembly having a first articulation component removably attached thereto is implanted in a proximal phalanx bone. A second stem component of the implant assembly having a second articulation component removably attached thereto is implanted in a middle phalanx bone. During a second surgical procedure performed after the first surgical procedure, the first articulation component is removed from the first stem component and the second articulation component is removed from the second stem component. A third articulation component is attached to the first stem component and a fourth articulation component is attached to the second stem component. The second surgical procedure is performed without removing the first stem component from the first bone and without removing the second stem component from the second bone. | 2012-12-20 |
20120323339 | POROUS PEEK ARTICLE AS AN IMPLANT - The present invention refers to a porous PEEK-type polymer article comprising a porous PEEK-type polymer structure and presenting at least a trimodal pore distribution. The invention describes a process for the production of said porous PEEK-type polymer article comprising: a) contacting a PEEK-type polymer with a composition comprising at least a organic solvent, b) heating at a temperature at which the PEEK-type polymer is dissolved, c) adding at least a porogen agent, d) cooling the mixture obtained in c) at a temperature at least equal or lower than the temperature at which the PEEK-type polymer precipitates, e) forming said cooled mixture into a shaped article, f) removing the organic solvent and the porogen agent, and g) recovering the PEEK-type polymer article. | 2012-12-20 |
20120323340 | IMPLANTABLE END PAD - Disclosed is an implantable end pad. The end pad includes a bone attachment portion having a recess configured to receive an amputated bone of a residual limb. The end pad further includes an end portion having a contour corresponding to at least a portion of a socket of an artificial limb such that the end pad can be at least partially received in the socket of the residual limb. Further disclosed is a method wherein the end pad is implanted into a residual limb by way of a surgical procedure. | 2012-12-20 |
20120323341 | CONTROL DEVICE - A control device includes: an input portion for inputting a process signal transmitted from a plant; a numerical processing part for outputting a Boolean value evaluating normal/abnormal of the process signal by a numerical processing based on a program; and a logical processing part for a logical processing of the Boolean value based on a logic circuit and then outputting a control signal related a safety protection operation of the plant. | 2012-12-20 |
20120323342 | APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR NONLINEAR PROCESS IDENTIFICATION USING ORTHONORMAL BASES AND ORDINAL SPLINES IN A PROCESS CONTROL SYSTEM - A method includes receiving data associated with operation of an industrial process system. The method also includes identifying a model defining a behavior of the industrial process system using the data, an orthonormal bases function, and an ordinal spline bases function. The orthonormal bases function can be generated using estimated poles of the industrial process system. The ordinal spline bases function can be generated using a specified set of cubic splines. The ordinal spline bases function can also be generated using a distribution of knots and multiple ordinal spline functions associated with the knots. More knots can be associated with a more nonlinear portion of the industrial process system, and fewer knots can be associated with a less nonlinear portion or a linear portion of the industrial process system. | 2012-12-20 |
20120323343 | VIRTUAL SENSOR SYSTEM AND METHOD - A control system is disclosed. The control system may have a physical sensor configured to measure physical parameter values of a machine. The control system may also have a virtual sensor network system configured to receive the physical parameter values measured by the physical sensor as input parameter values, and generate output parameter values based on the input parameter values. Further, the control system may have an electronic control module configured to store an output parameter value default rate of change and an output parameter value threshold rate of change, compare a rate of change of the output parameter values generated by the virtual sensor network system to the output parameter value threshold rate of change, and control the machine based on the output parameter value default rate of change if the rate of change of the output parameter values exceeds the output parameter value threshold rate of change. | 2012-12-20 |
20120323344 | AUTOMATICALLY ADJUSTABLE INDUSTRIAL CONTROL CONFIGURATION - An industrial control configuration can be a dynamic entity where different controllers are added, are subtracted, fail, etc. When dynamic functions occur, bindings of the configuration can benefit from a modification. Therefore, automatic adjustment of bindings can occur to facilitate improved operation. Automatic adjustment can be practiced when the industrial control configuration is a distributed control configuration without reliance upon a central database. | 2012-12-20 |
20120323345 | MEASUREMENT METHOD AND APPARATUS - An error correction method for coordinate positioning apparatus is described. The method comprises (i) taking a first data set comprising one or more first data values, each first data value describing a position on the surface of a first object, (ii) taking a second data set comprising one or more second data values, each second data value describing a position on the surface of the first object, and (iii) calculating an error map comprising one or more error values, each error value describing a positional difference between the surface as described by the first data set and the surface as described by the second data set. The surface normal of the first object is known at each position described by each first data value and step (iii) comprises calculating each error value by determining the positional difference substantially in the direction of the known surface normal. | 2012-12-20 |
20120323346 | Portable Physical Activity Sensing System - A portable system retrieves one or more exercise programs from a remote communication system that provides motivational content for a user exercising upon an exercise mechanism. The exercise program further includes at least one control signal that controls one or more operating parameters of the exercise mechanism. The portable system includes a control device configured to retrieve the exercise program and deliver the motivational content to the user by way of an audio delivery device, while delivering the control signals to the exercise mechanism. A sensor communicates with the control device and tracks one or more measurable parameters of the user during the user's performance of the exercise program. Data representative of the one or more measurable parameters can be delivered to the control device for delivery to the remote communication system. | 2012-12-20 |
20120323347 | PROMOTING EXPLORATION - Exploration outside of a person's normal area may be detected and rewarded. In one example, a game (or other type of application) may be built around such exploration. A device carried by a user (pursuant to appropriate permission obtained from the user) may report the user's location to a presence detector. The presence detector may use this information to build a heat map, indicating the user's areas of common presence. When the location information received from the device indicates that the user has ventured outside of the user's area of common presence, this exploration event may be rewarded with an increase in the user's score. The user's score may be published on social media. | 2012-12-20 |
20120323348 | METHOD, SYSTEM AND COMPUTER READABLE RECORDING MEDIUM FOR PROVIDING RANKING OF GAME GROUP - A ranking method and system for providing a ranking of a game group is disclosed. The method includes creating a game group including a user and at least one member among the user's registered friends who have joined a game service, based on a game group creation request received from a user terminal. The method further comprises calculating a ranking of the user with respect to other members of the created game group based on a ranking inquiry request received from the user terminal, and providing the user terminal with the calculated ranking of the user. The user terminal drives a game service platform associated with a plurality of games and provides the game group creation request information and the ranking inquiry request information through the game service platform. | 2012-12-20 |
20120323349 | AUDIO VISUAL PLAYER APPARATUS AND SYSTEM AND METHOD OF CONTENT DISTRIBUTION USING THE SAME - A system is presented providing content to a plurality of handheld devices (including musical selections). The devices can access a server over the Internet via a WIFI or other similar wireless interconnection and can download songs requested by a user from the server or from other users using, e,g, a P2P protocol. All downloads are governed by applicable DRM rules. Content and playlists may also be pushed by a server from other sources and means including, e.g., podcasting, based on predetermined rules, favorite preferences of users, and other criteria. | 2012-12-20 |
20120323350 | SUPPORT SYSTEM FOR SETTING EQUIPMENT PARAMETERS - An object is to provide an equipment parameter setting support system for supporting the setting of parameters in various processing equipment. The equipment parameter setting support system has an execution results acquisition unit for acquiring, from an equipment controller or EES of the equipment design and manufacturing support system, execution results of a real equipment at any two points in time; a parameter calculation unit for calculating PID parameters at each time point on the basis of the acquired execution results; a difference calculation unit for calculating the difference between the calculated PID parameters; and a variation value calculation unit for calculating a variation value for a unit interval in relation to the calculated difference, wherein, in the equipment design and manufacturing support system, the calculated variation value and a PID parameters stored in the equipment simulator are computed to calculate a new PID parameter, and PID control is executed in the equipment simulator using the new PID parameter. | 2012-12-20 |
20120323351 | BICYCLE FITTING METHOD FOR PRODUCING BICYCLE, BICYCLE FITTING SYSTEM AND COMPUTER PROGRAM PRODUCT - A bicycle fitting method for producing a bicycle is provided. The method includes the steps of receiving a bicycle riding information and a body measurement corresponding to a cyclist. According to the bicycle riding information, a bicycle model is provided. According to the body measurement and the selected bicycle model, a bicycle frame size and a set of bicycle geometric adjustment parameters are provided. According to the bicycle model, the bicycle frame size, and the set of bicycle geometric adjustment parameters, a bicycle which fits the cyclist is produced. | 2012-12-20 |
20120323352 | SINGULAR AND CO-MOLDED PRE-FORMS - Molded pre-forms that are used to protect electronic components and assemblies from damage due to vibration, shock and/or thermal exposure. The pre-forms can be singularly molded or co-molded. Co-molded pre-forms can include hard surface layers over softer molded compositions. The pre-forms are molded in molds that are formed using modified images obtained from printed circuit boards having the electronic components thereon. Images of the printed circuit boards are obtained and modified to improve vibrational dampening and/or heat transfer. The molded pre-forms allow for access to the printed circuit boards for purposes of replacing or repairing the printed circuit boards. | 2012-12-20 |
20120323353 | ALGORITHMIC FRAMEWORK FOR THE INTEGRATED OPTIMIZATION OF HOT STRIP MILL AND UPSTREAM MOLTEN METAL OPERATIONS FOR A LARGE-SCALE STEEL MANUFACTURING PLANT - A method and system for optimizing modules of a steel manufacturing process includes a plurality of manufacturing modules for a manufacturing process. Each of the modules have a plurality of steps. The plurality of modules include at least an upstream module, a casting module, and a downstream module. Each of the plurality of modules have parameters, and include at least one variable event. The variable event is adjustable for optimization of the manufacturing process while the parameters are being maintained for each of the plurality of modules. A communication system is used for exchanging information between the modules while the manufacturing process is occurring to adjust the at least one variable event for optimizing the manufacturing process. | 2012-12-20 |
20120323354 | Systems and Methods for Making Panels from Sheet Material Using Adaptive Control - A system for forming a building panel of a desired shape includes a shaping machine comprising multiple rollers, wherein the shaping machine is configured to provide a desired shape to a building panel, and wherein the building panel is made from sheet material. A drive system moves the building panel longitudinally along the shaping machine, and a power source provides power to the drive system. As the building panel is moved along the shaping machine, a load sensor detects a load placed on the power source, and an optional speed sensor detects a speed of the building panel. A control system controls the drive system in response to a signal from the load sensor so as to control the load on the power source as the building panel moves along the shaping machine. | 2012-12-20 |
20120323355 | SPECTROGRAPHIC MONITORING OF A SUBSTRATE DURING PROCESSING USING INDEX VALUES - Methods, systems, and apparatus for spectrographic monitoring of a substrate during chemical mechanical polishing are described. In one aspect, a computer-implemented method includes storing a library having a plurality of reference spectra, each reference spectrum of the plurality of reference spectra having a stored associated index value, measuring a sequence of spectra in-situ during polishing to obtain measured spectra, for each measured spectrum of the sequence of spectra, finding a best matching reference spectrum to generate a sequence of best matching reference spectra, determining the associated index value for each best matching spectrum from the sequence of best matching reference spectra to generate a sequence of index values, fitting a linear function to the sequence of index values, and halting the polishing either when the linear function matches or exceeds a target index or when the associated index value from the determining step matches or exceeds the target index. | 2012-12-20 |
20120323356 | METHOD OF OPTIMIZING AN OPTICAL PARAMETRIC MODEL FOR STRUCTURAL ANALYSIS USING OPTICAL CRITICAL DIMENSION (OCD) METROLOGY - Optimization of optical parametric models for structural analysis using optical critical dimension metrology is described. A method includes determining a first optical model fit for a parameter of a structure. The first optical model fit is based on a domain of quantities for a first model of the structure. A first near optical field response is determined for a first quantity of the domain of quantities and a second near optical field response is determined for a second, different quantity of the domain of quantities. The first and second near optical field responses are compared to locate a common region of high optical field intensity for the parameter of the structure. The first model of the structure is modified to provide a second, different model of the structure. A second, different optical model fit is determined for the parameter of the structure based on the second model of the structure. | 2012-12-20 |
20120323357 | PICKING SYSTEM - A picking system includes a conveyer, a robot, and a control device. The conveyer conveys workpieces. The robot includes a plurality of holding parts and a supporting part. The holding parts hold the workpieces. The supporting part is rotatably provided against an arm to support the plurality of holding parts. Then, the control device instructs the robot to rotate the supporting part by a predetermined amount in such a manner that the direction of the workpiece becomes a predetermined direction for each the workpiece held by the holding parts and then to place the workpiece on a predetermined place. | 2012-12-20 |
20120323358 | PICKING SYSTEM - A picking system includes a conveyer, a robot, a main camera, and a control device. The conveyer conveys workpieces. The robot performs a holding operation and a moving operation on the workpieces. The main camera captures the transport path of the conveyer. The control device detects the workpiece on the basis of the image captured by the main camera and instructs the robot to perform the holding operation on the detected workpiece. Moreover, the control device instructs the robot to perform the holding operation on the overlapped workpieces when the overlapping of the workpieces is detected. | 2012-12-20 |
20120323359 | METHODS FOR ENHANCING VENDING MACHINE UTILIZATION AND DEVICES THEREOF - A method for vending one or more media products to a third party, comprising receiving a vending request for one or more products; reserving the movie at that kiosk for later pickup; generating a unique identifier for that reservation, upon a determination that the transaction data is approved; transmitting, to the customer and/or to a third party, the unique identifier for confirmation of the one or more reserved products; receiving a pickup request at the selected location for the reserved product including the unique identifier and possibly third party identification data; verifying the unique identifier; and vending the reserved product. | 2012-12-20 |
20120323360 | WEB ENABLED AUDIOVISUAL MEDICATION DISPENSING - The disclosure relates generally to methods and devices for taking care of elderly, disabled, or other dependents. The devices and methods may be useful for dependents that are not willing or able to live in an environment which has a caretaker physically present. Example devices and methods can facilitate communication between a caretaker and a dependent. Devices and methods can optionally facilitate disbursing medications remotely. | 2012-12-20 |
20120323361 | SYSTEM FOR FEEDING BANKNOTES TO A BANKNOTE TRANSPORTING UNIT WITH THE AID OF A DOCKING STATION - The invention relates to a system ( | 2012-12-20 |
20120323362 | DISPENSING CABINET WITH ARTICULATING ARM - Embodiments of the invention provide methods, systems, and apparatus related to a dispensing device having an adjustable user interface. According to one embodiment, a dispensing device may include a cabinet having one or more compartments for dispensing health care supplies to one or more patients. The dispensing device may also include a control system that provides various operational functions related to dispensing the health care supplies. A user interface may be communicatively coupled with the control system and may be configured to receive input from a user and provide output to the user. An articulating arm assembly may couple the user interface with the cabinet to provide the user interface with one or more translational degrees of freedom and one or more rotational degrees of freedom relative to the cabinet. | 2012-12-20 |
20120323363 | ROBOT SYSTEM - A robot system according to embodiments includes a conveying device, a plurality of robots, an image capturing device, a workpiece detecting device, and a control device. The control device includes an operation instruction unit and an allocating unit. The operation instruction unit generates an operation instruction for performing a holding operation on workpieces on the basis of the detection result of the workpiece detecting device and transmits the operation instruction to the robots. The allocating unit determines which of the plurality of robots to which the operation instruction unit transmits the operation instruction on the basis of conveying situations of the workpieces obtained from the detection result of the workpiece detecting device. | 2012-12-20 |
20120323364 | CONTROLLING A SURGICAL NAVIGATION SYSTEM - The invention relates to a control system for a surgical navigation system, wherein the navigation system is associated with a detection unit for detecting system control inputs made by a user, and wherein the navigation system is controlled in accordance with the control inputs and the detection unit comprises a gesture detection for detecting user gestures. The invention also relates to a method for controlling a surgical navigation system, wherein a detection unit for detecting system control inputs made by a user is associated with the surgical navigation system, the navigation system is controlled in accordance with the control inputs, and user gestures are used as said control inputs. | 2012-12-20 |
20120323365 | DOCKING PROCESS FOR RECHARGING AN AUTONOMOUS MOBILE DEVICE - Described herein are technologies pertaining to autonomously docking a mobile robot at a docking station for purposes of recharging batteries of the mobile robot. The mobile robot uses vision-based navigation and a known map of the environment to navigate toward the docking station. Once sufficiently proximate to the docking station, the mobile robot captures infrared images of the docking station, and granularly aligns itself with the docking station based upon the captured infrared images of the docking station. As the robot continues to drive towards the docking station, the robot monitors infrared sensors for infrared beams emitted from the docking station. If the infrared sensors receive the infrared beams, the robot continues to drive forward until the robot successfully docks with the docking station. | 2012-12-20 |
20120323366 | MANIPULATOR WITH CAMERA - Provided is a manipulator with at least one camera capable of observing an end effector from a direction suitable for work. A rotating portion rotatable coaxially with the end effector is provided to a link adjacent to a link located at a manipulator tip end. At least one camera for recognizing a work piece as a object is arranged on the rotating portion through a camera platform. An actuator for controlling a rotation angle of the rotating portion is driven according to a rotation angle of the link located at the manipulator tip end, and thus the camera is arranged in a direction perpendicular to a plane where end effector can move when the end effector performs a grip work. In an assembly work, the rotating portion is rotated such that the camera is arranged in a direction parallel to the plane where end effector can move. | 2012-12-20 |
20120323367 | APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR pH CONTROL IN WASTEWATER TREATMENT PLANTS AND OTHER SYSTEMS - A method includes obtaining a nonlinear model that represents a pH of a material in a process to be controlled. The model is generated using an orthonormal bases function and an ordinal spline bases function. The method also includes performing non-linear model predictive control of the process using the model. The method could also include generating the model using the orthonormal bases function and the ordinal spline bases function. This could include identifying a distribution of knots and multiple ordinal spline functions, where each ordinal spline function is associated with one of the knots. The ordinal spline bases function can be generated using at least one of the ordinal spline functions. | 2012-12-20 |
20120323368 | ENERGY MANAGEMENT GATEWAYS AND PROCESSES - An energy management gateway is provided. The energy management gateway includes a memory, a processor coupled to the memory, a building management system (BMS) interface executed by the processor and an energy management system interface executed by the processor. The BMS interface is configured to receive a first message, the first message being structured according to an industrial protocol. The energy management interface is configured to translate the first message into a second message structured according to an energy management protocol different from the industrial protocol, the second message including a query comprising at least one command and a set of qualifiers, the query being addressed to at least one first endpoint and to provide the second message to a first domain member of a first domain including the at least one first endpoint, the first domain member being a device other than the at least one first endpoint. | 2012-12-20 |
20120323369 | MECHANICAL PARKING SYSTEM FOR VEHICLES AND METHOD FOR CONTROLLING THE SAME - An exemplary mechanical parking system includes platforms for parking vehicles, a switch electrically connected to the platforms, cameras mounted on the platforms, a data processing device electrically connected to the cameras and the switch, and an alarm electrically connected to the data processing device. When any one of the platforms is switched to move, the cameras capture photos/videos for an environment of the mechanical parking system and send the photos/videos to the data processing device continuously. The data processing device analyzes whether there is a person appearing in the photos/videos and decides whether the movement of the platform should be stopped via the switch. After the danger is precluded, the movement of the platform is restored and the cameras start to work again, until the parking of the car is finished. | 2012-12-20 |
20120323370 | OPENING-AND-CLOSING MEMBER CONTROL DEVICE - An opening-and-closing member control device for controlling a driving device to operate an opening-and-closing member according to a target speed includes a detection portion detecting an operational state of the driving device during the control, a disturbance determination portion for determining whether a disturbance is generated at the opening-and-closing member, which is applied in the same direction to an operating direction of the opening-and-closing member during an opening-closing operation of the opening-and-closing member, by monitoring at least one of a change in an electric signal and in an operation speed of the opening-and-closing member generated relative to the target speed, and a threshold value changing portion for switching an entrapment threshold value when the disturbance determination portion determines that the disturbance is generated. Whether an external object is entrapped at the opening-and-closing member is detectable by comparing an electric signal obtained by the detection portion and the entrapment threshold value. | 2012-12-20 |
20120323371 | BELT FOR TRANSMITTING A DRIVE MOTION, DEVICE FOR DRIVING A BELT AND METHOD FOR STARTING A BELT - The invention relates to a belt for transmitting a drive motion, comprising a belt body consisting of an elastic material and a carcass that extends in the longitudinal direction of the belt and that is at least partially surrounded by the belt body for increasing the strength of said belt body in the longitudinal direction of the belt. A data memory for saving data is situated in the belt body and at least one piece of information that identifies the belt is stored in the data memory. The drive motion can be enabled and/or disabled in accordance with the information that identifies the belt. | 2012-12-20 |
20120323372 | ELECTRIC ARC DISCHARGE EVALUATION METHOD, AND ASSOCIATED TEST STAND - Electric arc discharges between bearing rings in a roller bearing are analyzed by setting a defined operating state based on rotational speed of the roller bearing, temperature of the roller bearing, an imbalance of the roller bearing causing vibrations, lubricants, axial/radial/tilt loads, tilting of the bearing rings relative to each other, pulse shape and pulse repetition rate of an applied electrical voltage, bearing play, and pre-existing damage to the roller bearing. A pulse-shaped electrical voltage between inner and outer bearing ring generates electric arc discharges, wherein for each electric arc discharge a characteristic value representative of energy, power, voltage and/or current and duration of the electric arc discharge is determined. Only those electric arc discharges are evaluated that have a qualifying value determined in accordance with at least one of the characteristic values greater than a predefined limit value. | 2012-12-20 |
20120323373 | NUMERICAL CONTROL DEVICE - A numerical control device including: a linear axis dependent position correction amount calculating unit which calculates a position correction amount of the linear axis from a translation error and an attitude error dependent on movement of the linear axis; a rotary axis dependent position correction amount calculating unit which calculates a position correction amount of the linear axis from a translation error and an attitude error dependent on movement of the rotary axis; a rotary axis angle correction amount calculating unit which calculates an angle correction amount of the rotary axis from a part of the attitude error dependent on movement of the linear axis and a part of the attitude error dependent on movement of the rotary axis; and a position addition correction amount calculating unit which calculates a position correction amount of the linear axis corresponding to the rotary axis correction amount. | 2012-12-20 |
20120323374 | HVAC CONTROLLER WITH COMPONENT CHANGE NOTIFICATION - HVAC methods and systems are provided for issuing a component change notification to a user when an air filter or other replaceable component should be changed. In some instances, an HVAC controller may solicit information from a user that is related to one or more features of the replaceable component (e.g. air filter) of the HVAC system. This can include, size, type, model number and/or any other suitable feature, parameter and/or property. In some cases, the time before a component change notification message is issued by the HVAC controller may be dependent on, determined by, and/or adjusted based on the received information. In some instances, the HVAC controller may display at least some of the received information in a subsequently issued component change notification message. | 2012-12-20 |
20120323375 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR CONFIGURING A FILTER CHANGE NOTIFICATION OF AN HVAC CONTROLLER - Methods and systems are provided for monitoring the condition of an air filter of an HVAC system to provide an indication of when the air filter should be changed. An HVAC controller may be configured to include a filter change notification, wherein the HVAC controller may monitor the current condition of the air filter, and may display a filter change notification on the display when the current condition of the air filter passes a filter change threshold value. In some cases, the HVAC controller may be configured to perform, sometimes at the request of a user, one or more calibration tests on the air filter to help the user identify an appropriate filter change threshold value. Alternatively, or in addition, the HVAC controller may, through a user interface, allow a user to enter and/or change a filter change threshold value, as desired. | 2012-12-20 |
20120323376 | AIR CONDITIONING CONTROLLING DEVICE AND METHOD - In an operating quantity calculating portion, an operating quantity controlling an air-conditioned space to a target air-conditioning environment is calculated for each individual air-conditioning equipment through performing CFD reverse analysis on the air-conditioning environment of the air-conditioned space; in a state estimating portion, state setting values indicate the state of the target air-conditioning environment at the measurement locations of the individual sensors provided in the air-conditioned space are estimated respectively through CFD forward analysis on these operating quantities; and, in a feedback controlling portion, a coordinating factor is calculated based on the deviations between the state setting values obtained and the state measured values that are measured by the sensors, where coordinated operating quantities are calculated through correcting each of the operating quantities by the coordinating factor, and coordinated feedback control of the air-conditioning equipment is performed through sending, to the air-conditioning system, the individual coordinated operating quantities thus obtained. | 2012-12-20 |
20120323377 | METHODS AND SYSTEMS FOR MONITORING AN AIR FILTER OF AN HVAC SYSTEM - Methods and systems for monitoring an air filter installed in an HVAC system may include operating the HVAC system in an air filter monitoring mode such as, for example, a fan only mode, and measuring, for example, a differential pressure across the air filter when the HVAC system is operating in the air filter monitoring mode. The method may include evaluating a status of the air filter using, for example, the measured differential pressure value, and in some cases, display the status on a display of an HVAC controller. | 2012-12-20 |
20120323378 | Managing Treatment of Subterranean Zones - A downhole heated fluid generation system includes: a plurality of subsystems, including an air subsystem having an air compressor or an air flow control valve, a fuel subsystem having a fuel compressor or a fuel flow control valve, a treatment fluid subsystem having a fluid pump; a combustor coupled to at least one of the plurality of subsystems to provide a heated fluid into at least one of a wellbore or a subterranean zone; and a controller operable to: receiving an input indicative of a desired flow rate of the heated fluid; receiving an input indicative of a desired quality of the heated fluid; determining a virtual flow rate of the heated fluid based, at least in part, on the input indicative of the desired flow rate; and controlling the plurality of subsystems with the virtual flow rate of the heated fluid. | 2012-12-20 |
20120323379 | PRESSURE BALANCED VALVE - The disclosed embodiments include a pressure balance valve that solves one or more problems associated with existing designs. For example, in one embodiment, a pressure balancing valve assembly is disclosed that provides a low cost frictionless assembly that is constructed to not seal the leak path between an inlet port and an outlet port. Instead, this leak path is minimized with small angle tapered plunger and a precision bored annulus to provide a defined area for the pressure drop to occur and to limit the flow from the inlet to the outlet. | 2012-12-20 |
20120323380 | WATER DEMAND OPTIMIZATION SYSTEM, CONTROL SYSTEM AND PROGRAM - According to one embodiment, a water demand optimization system includes a management terminal, a measuring apparatus, a demand information generating unit and a water-supply control apparatus. The management terminal drives customer equipment, which performs an operation using water, in a time zone in which a power unit rate is low. The measuring apparatus measures an amount of water used in a dwelling unit. The demand information generating unit generates water demand based on the amount of water. The water-supply control apparatus controls a pump in a manner to meet water demand and to minimize a treatment cost in a water purification plant and a cost for conveyance of clear water with reference to a variation in the power unit rate. | 2012-12-20 |
20120323381 | Security Measures for the Smart Grid - Security is enabled in an electrical system by examining a configuration file for a substation present in the electrical system, where the substation includes one or more electrical devices and one or more network devices. Based on the examination of the configuration file, information is determined on a characteristic of an electrical device that is selected from a group including a type, allowed role of the electrical device and allowed communication modes for the electrical device. Based on the determined information, a basis for controlling the role and communication modes for the electrical device is identified. A security policy is configured in a network device in the substation to incorporate the identified basis. Based on the configured security policy in the network device, communication patterns for the electrical device are allowed that are associated with the allowed role and allowed communication modes for the electrical device. | 2012-12-20 |
20120323382 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS TO ASSESS AND OPTIMIZE ENERGY USAGE FOR A FACILITY - A system for assessing energy usage reads read at least one computer-aided design (CAD) file relating to the architecture of a facility and extracts information from the CAD file for use in determining static energy characteristics corresponding to the architecture of the facility, acquires information for use in determining dynamic energy characteristics of the facility, and calculates a predicted energy usage of the facility based at least in part on the static and dynamic energy characteristics. The system further acquires data from at least one sensor configured to measure actual energy usage of the facility in real-time and calculates the actual energy usage of the facility. When the actual energy usage exceeds the predicted energy usage, the system transmits an alert to a user and determines corrective measures to reduce energy usage. | 2012-12-20 |
20120323383 | POWER SUPPLY APPARATUS AND IMAGE FORMATION APPARATUS - A power supply apparatus includes an arithmetic unit configured to successively update a N-bit division ratio at every step whose processing timing is managed by a timer, by adding or subtracting of preset data read from a data memory to or from the N-bit division ratio in accordance with a comparative output. An arithmetic unit performs an arithmetic operation to make a feedback data value approach a target data value by a negative feedback control, the arithmetic operation using, as the preset data, data read from the address specified by data with a predetermined bit width of M (M2012-12-20 | |
20120323384 | POWER MANAGEMENT NETWORK SYSTEM - A power management network system includes an advanced metering infrastructure (AMI) to communicate with a power supply source to receive power information and an energy management system (EMS) connectable to the AMI to control operations of home appliances on the basis of the power information. A first security table is in at least one of the AMI and the EMS, and the first security table has a security code to encode data with respect to the power information. A security reinforcement unit connectable to the AMI or the EMS includes a second security table to update the first security table. | 2012-12-20 |
20120323385 | PROVIDING ENERGY MANAGEMENT RECOMMENDATIONS WITH AN ENERGY MANAGEMENT DEVICE - Devices, systems, and methods for providing energy management recommendations are provided. One method includes recording a number of interactions between a user and a computing device, creating an energy usage profile according to the number of interactions between the user and the computing device, computing energy usage analytics associated with the energy usage profile, presenting the energy usage analytics to the user, and providing a number of energy management recommendations that account for the usage analytics and the energy usage profile. | 2012-12-20 |
20120323386 | ELECTRIC POWER SUPPLY SYSTEM - An electric power supply system has, as multiple storage units, an output type battery of high output and small capacity and a capacity type battery of low output and large capacity. The charge-discharge electric power of each of the storage units is controlled by a controller according to a charge-discharge schedule for a prediction period. Based on a predicted power consumption schedule, a predicted power generation schedule, and a charge-discharge characteristic of each of the storage units, the controller determines a charge-discharge schedule with regards to an optimal evaluation index, and controls the storage units in accordance with the charge-discharge schedule. | 2012-12-20 |
20120323387 | POWER SYSTEM FOR RESIDENCE - The present invention provides a household electric power system, comprising an electric control device that predicts whether voltage suppression will occur at the system side according to the historical data including voltage fluctuation at the system side, date and time, outdoor air temperature, and meteorological condition, etc. when voltage suppression occurred at the system side previously, and the present data including voltage fluctuation at the system side, date and time, outdoor air temperature, and meteorological condition, etc. The electric control device stores the surplus power generated by a solar electric power generation device as energy into an energy storage device, if voltage suppression is predicted to occur at the system side; thus, the purpose of the surplus power generated by the solar electric power generation device can be switched from selling electricity to the system side, to storing as energy. | 2012-12-20 |
20120323388 | SYSTEM, METHOD, AND APPARATUS FOR OPERATING A POWER DISTRIBUTION SYSTEM - A power distribution system includes a plurality of node devices and a computer communicatively coupled to the node devices. The computer includes a memory area configured to store at least one operating parameter of each of the node devices, and a processor that is programmed to determine a desired operating limitation of the power distribution system to be optimized, calculate an effect on the operating limitation based on a modification of the operating parameter of at least one of the node devices, and transmit a command to the node device to cause the node device to modify the operating parameter. | 2012-12-20 |
20120323389 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR CONTROLLING ENERGY SERVICES BASED ON MARKET DATA - Apparatus, systems, computer readable media and methods for controlling power realized by energy service equipment based on market data are disclosed. A method simulates execution of control models, as simulation results; selects one of the control models during a first period; and controls operation of the energy services equipment in a second period, using the selected control model. According to an exemplary apparatus, each control model is based on a set of changing market data and controls operation of energy service equipment. A system controls power realized from different energy service equipment using market data. The system includes a model processor that simulates execution of model sets using market data to generate a simulation result; a model selector that selects a model of each set based on simulation results; and a processor that controls operation of the different energy service equipment using the selected model of each respective model set. | 2012-12-20 |
20120323390 | ENERGY SUPPLY/DEMAND CONTROL SYSTEM - Disclosed is an energy supply/demand control system provided with: a plurality of load apparatuses used within a predetermined area, each having a sensor for detecting usage conditions and the operation states thereof; and an electricity consumption measurement device measuring an electricity amount consumed by the load apparatuses. The energy supply/demand control system is further provided with a control device which obtains at least one of the usage condition and the operation state detected by the sensor, as well as the electricity consumption amount measured by the electricity consumption measurement device, and carries out energy supply/demand control of the apparatuses within the predetermined area based on an estimated consumption amount which is determined by using the information obtained from the sensor and the electricity consumption amount. | 2012-12-20 |
20120323391 | KEEP ALIVE METHOD FOR RFD DEVICES - A method and system is disclosed that includes a controller that determines a sleep schedule for reduced function devices on a home network. The devices have various sleep schedules in which to operate in an active state or a reduced function state. The controller determines the different schedules by sending communication messages to each device via a communication module. A timer is used to determine a sleep schedule for reduced function devices (RFDs) on the network. The sleep schedule is used to monitor when the devices are communicating on the network and are no longer able to communicate with the controller. | 2012-12-20 |
20120323392 | SYSTEM AND METHOD OF OPERATING HOUSEHOLD APPLIANCES - A household appliance configured to communicate with a second household appliance, a network of household appliances that can communication with each other, and method of controlling an operation of a primary function unit of a first household appliance based on one of a priority scheme and synchronized duty cycles of the first household appliance and the second household appliance, wherein the first household appliance is configured to communicate with the second household appliance. The household appliance includes a primary function unit, a controller that controls an operation of the primary function unit, a two-way communication module that transmits and receives signals between the controller and the second household appliance. | 2012-12-20 |
20120323393 | AUTOMATED DEMAND RESPONSE SYSTEM - A system and method for reducing an electrical load in a facility with a building automation system, includes first receiving information for a demand response event from an automated demand response server at an automated demand response client. After receipt of a new demand response event, the system determines a plurality of devices of the building automation system to be controlled during the demand response event. Next, the system prepares a schedule of control actions for the plurality of devices during the demand response event. The system then sends control messages to the building automation system to execute the control actions for the plurality of devices according to the schedule of control actions for the demand response event. | 2012-12-20 |
20120323394 | Control System for Color Lights - One or more LED light array circuits are set to a display pattern via modulating the current via a microcontroller. A microcontroller master effects the lighting patterns by communicating display pattern settings to a plurality of slaved LED light array circuits via DC powerlines and fixtures thereof. | 2012-12-20 |
20120323395 | Power Equipment Control System - In a power equipment control system connected, via a communication network, to a system operation server of a power system and a single or a plurality of power equipments for performing power consumption or storage with interconnecting to the power system, to regulate power demand and supply balance of the power equipment, a contribution degree is obtained by preparing a demand plan of subsequent power of said power equipment; transmitting, to said power equipment, information relevant to demand regulation request to said power equipment, received from said system operation server, based on said demand plan; receiving demand regulation result of observation information on the demand regulation performed within said power equipment, based on said demand regulation request; and performing said demand regulation by said power equipment from said demand regulation result. | 2012-12-20 |
20120323396 | HYBRID ELECTRIC GENERATING POWER PLANT THAT USES A COMBINATION OF REAL-TIME GENERATION FACILITIES AND ENERGY STORAGE SYSTEM - Approaches for controlling power supplied to an electric grid are disclosed. In embodiments, methods and systems control power supplied to an electric grid using an energy storage device. In an embodiment, a method receives an indication of power to be supplied to the electric grid, generates power from a power generator and adjusts, using the generated power, an energy level of the energy storage device to control power supplied to the grid in accordance with the received indication. In another embodiment, a system comprises a grid indication receiver for receiving an indication of power to be supplied to the electric grid; a power generator connected to the grid; an energy storage device coupled to the power generator; and a controller for adjusting, using the generated power from the generator, an energy level of the energy storage device to control power supplied to the grid in accordance with the received indication. | 2012-12-20 |
20120323397 | Electric Power System Automation Using Time Coordinated Instructions - A system for controlling and automating an electric power delivery system by executing time coordinated instruction sets to achieve a desired result. A communication master may implement the execution of time coordinated instruction sets in a variety of circumstances. The communication may be embodied as an automation controller in communication with intelligent electronic devices (IEDs). The communication master may also be embodied as an IED that is configured to coordinate the actions of other IEDs. The time coordinated instruction sets may include steps for checking status of power system equipment before executing. The time coordinated instruction sets may include reactionary steps to execute if one of the steps fails. The time coordinated instruction sets may also be implemented based on a condition detected in the electric power delivery system, or may be implemented through high level systems, such as a SCADA system or a wide area control and situational awareness system. | 2012-12-20 |
20120323398 | POWER MANAGEMENT - A power management method and system. The method includes retrieving and storing by a computer processor, identification data identifying power consumption devices. Each power consumption device receives an input voltage signal and consumes power. The computer processor monitors a power consumption level for each power consumption device. The computer processor disables each power consumption device from receiving and consuming power. The computer processor generates an association list associating each power consumption level with the identification data. The computer processor generates and stores a prioritization list indicating an order of priority for disabling the power consumption devices. | 2012-12-20 |
20120323399 | BUS NETWORK - A system according to various embodiments of the disclosure includes a bus and a plurality of devices coupled to the bus, the devices configured to communicate with each other via the bus. The system further includes a power supply coupled to the bus, the power supply for supplying power to the plurality of devices via the bus. The power supply is configured to detect an event, and in response to the event, alternately supply power to the plurality of devices via the bus at a first current level or at a second current level, the second current level less than the first current level. Among other things, embodiments in this disclosure help allow additional devices to be used on a bus, even where the total power consumption of the devices would normally exceed a maximum defined by a bus architecture. Furthermore, various embodiments help allow a single gauge of wire to be used throughout a bus network (even where long lengths of wire are required) while still providing sufficient power to the devices connected to the bus. | 2012-12-20 |