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|52nd week of 2012 patent applcation highlights part 59
|Patent application number
|PHYSIOLOGICALLY HARMONIZED TRICUSPID ANNULOPLASTY RING - A tricuspid remodeling annuloplasty ring having two free ends that are upturned in the inflow direction to help avoid unnecessary leaflet abrasion. The free ends are separated across a gap that is large enough to reduce the risk of passing sutures through the conductive system of the heart, yet not too large that support of the septal leaflet of the tricuspid annulus is degraded. The ring may have four sequential segments looking from the inflow side and extending in a clockwise direction from a free end located adjacent the antero septal commis sure after implant. The ring may define an inflow bulge in the first segment and/or an inflow bulge in the fourth segment that help the ring conform to the natural bulges created by the adjacent aorta, thereby reducing stress and the potential for ring dehiscence. Desirably, the ring has variable flexibility, either gradual and/or between or within different segments.
|Biomedical Valve Devices, Support Frames for Use in Such Devices, and Related Methods - Biomedical valve devices, support frames for use in such devices, methods of making such devices, and methods of treating animals, including humans, for valve-related conditions are described. The biomedical valve devices can includes a native tissue valve attached to a support frame or a tissue attached to a support frame in a manner to form a valve. The tissue valve or tissue can be autogenous to the animal being treated.
|INTRAOCULAR MULTIFOCAL LENS - A multifocal intraocular lens providing greater or lesser refraction in relation to the position of the head and eyes of a user. The lens body is inserted into an artificial capsule bag or into a fluid-filled enucleated natural lens capsule of an eye, wherein the lens body encompasses the optical axis of the eye and by movement of the lens body within the capsule, provides different greater or lesser refraction depending upon the position of the eye.
|HAPTIC DEVICES FOR INTRAOCULAR LENS - A haptic for fixation to, and manufacture in conjunction with, an intraocular lens to be implanted in the natural lens capsule of the human eye is disclosed. The haptic secures the lens in an appropriate position within the natural capsule so as to provide optimal visual acuity through the aphakic lens. The haptic ends are designed to position the lens neutrally, anteriorly or posteriorly within the lens envelope. The haptic has a of an anterior retention ring and a posterior retention ring.
|Dynamic Ossicular Prosthesis - An ossicular replacement prosthesis includes first and second engagement structures for engaging middle ear structures, a spring that biases the first and second engagement structures longitudinally apart when under compression, and a rod that axially stabilizes longitudinal movement of the first and second engagement structures and conducts sound waves between the first and second engagement structures. Relative axial pressure on the first and second engagement structures causes compression or expansion of the spring which results in movement of the rod to adjust the length of the prosthesis to accommodate changes in anatomical distance as occurs under changes in pressure or abnormal middle ear conditions.
|TAPERED ARCUATE INTERVERTEBRAL IMPLANT - An intervertebral implant can include: a tapered arcuate shape. The implant can include a solid non-elastic portion. The implant can include an implant-suitable material. The implant can be at least partially porous, and optionally, the pores can be filed with a biodegradable material that can include one or more active agents, such as growth factors. The implant can be formed from a hybrid of at least two implant-suitable materials. The implant can include a body having a rounded surface and a substantially flat surface. Optionally, the substantially flat surface can be opposite of the rounded surface. The rounded surface and substantially flat surface can extend from a base to a tip of the tapered arcuate shape. The base may be substantially flat, where the tip can be rounded. The tapered arcuate shape can extend from a substantially flat base and curve to a tip of the arc.
|METHOD AND IMPLANT DEVICE FOR GRAFTING ADJACENT VERTEBRAL BODIES - A methodology for grafting together adjacent bony structures is provided using an implant device having an endplate with an inner disc portion and outer ring portion spaced from the inner disc portion by a connecting wall disposed therebetween. An endplate interior surface includes a retaining structure for securing the endplate to one of the bony structures, and endplate an exterior surface has an integrally formed socket. A ball-joint rod has a longitudinally extending body and an end, and at least a portion of the ball-joint rod end is curvilinear in shape. The curvilinear ball-joint rod end is rotatably disposed in the endplate socket to fixedly interconnect the bony structures.
|BI-DIRECTIONAL FIXATING/LOCKING TRANSVERTEBRAL BODY SCREW/INTERVERTEBRAL CAGE STAND-ALONE CONSTRUCTS - A bi-directional fixating transvertebral (BDFT) screw/cage apparatus is provided. The BDFT apparatus includes an intervertebral cage including a plurality of internal angled screw guides, a plurality of screw members, and a cage indentation adjacent to the screw guides that independently or supplemented by other screw locking mechanisms prevents the screw members from pulling out of the internal angled screw guides. The internal angled screw guides orient a first screw member superiorly and a second screw member inferiorly. The intervertebral cage is adapted for posterior lumbar intervertebral placement, anterior lumbar intervertebral placement, anterio-lateral thoracic intervertebral placement, or anterior cervical intervertebral placement.
|SPINAL FUSION IMPLANTS - An improved implant is provided for human implantation, such as a spinal implant for implantation into the intervertebral space between two adjacent vertebrae. Some embodiments include a substrate of high strength biocompatible material, such as doped silicon nitride ceramic for example. In some embodiments, the substrate may also include one or more regions of a controlled porosity analogous to natural bone. In other embodiments, the substrate may comprise the entire implant.
|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.
|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.
|Engineered Scaffolds for Intervertebral Disc Repair and Regeneration and for Articulating Joint Repair and Regeneration - Methods for the engineering and preparation of intervertebral disc repair scaffolds and articulating joint repair scaffolds are disclosed. The methodology utilizes either magnetic resonance images or combined magnetic resonance and computed tomography images as a template for creating either the intervertebral scaffold or the joint repair scaffold (e.g., osteochondral scaffold) with fixation to the underlying bone. The disc scaffold design may include an outer annulus that may contain desired structures and a central nucleus pulposus region that could either contain a designed microstructure or a contained hydrogel. The osteochondral scaffold may include a bone compartment interface with a cartilage compartment. The bone compartment may interface with a cutout portion of the bone through fixation components. Different microstructure designs may be created for the bone and cartilage compartment to represent desired mechanical and mass transport properties. The microstructure controls elastic and permeability property distribution within the scaffold.
|Intervertebral disc prosthesis - The present invention relates to an intervertebral disc prosthesis comprising at least three pieces including an upper plate (
|SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR DELIVERING AN IMPLANT BETWEEN ADJACENT VERTEBRAS USING ENDOSCOPY - An optical intervertebral implantation system can be used for a method of implanting an intervertebral implant into an intervertebral space with visualization. The system can include an elongate light guide and an intervertebral implant operably coupled with the elongate light guide. The elongate light guide can be configured as a guide wire and received through an aperture of the implant. The elongate light guide can be configured as a guide wire and the implant is received over and slides along on outside surface of the elongate light guide. The elongate light guide can be configured as a cannula having an internal conduit and the implant is received within the conduit. The elongate light guide can be configured as a cannula with an internal conduit and the implant is slidably coupled with an internal surface of the internal conduit of the cannula.
|Expandable Vertebral Implant - The present invention relates to an expandable implant for engagement between vertebrae generally comprising an inner member, outer member, and gear member positioned coaxial with respect to each other such that the inner and outer members are moveable relative to each other along an axis. The gear member is axially fixed to the outer member and freely rotatable with respect to the outer member and the gear member threadedly engages a threaded portion of the inner member to translate inner member along the axis. The implant is configured to engage the vertebrae in a predetermined alignment and the gear member includes gear teeth exposed to the exterior and configured to be accessible by a tool member at a plurality of angular positions around the perimeter of the implant device.
|Craniofacial Implant Registration Features and Methods - Various embodiments of craniofacial implants, surgical instruments, and techniques are described to provide improved surgical results.
|EXPANDABLE REVERSE SHOULDER TRIAL - Described herein is an expandable shoulder trial for a reverse shoulder system including a rotatably adjustable insert housed within a humeral cup. The insert has proximal and distal ends, the proximal end having a concave recess therein adapted to receive a glenosphere prosthesis. The distal end of the insert includes a shaft, the shaft having a helical groove disposed on at least a portion thereof. A distal end of the humeral cup is inserted in a humeral stem. The humeral cup has a proximal end including a recess therein, the recess defined by a circular wall. A guide pin protrudes from the circular wall and is adapted to engage the helical groove of the insert shaft. The proximal end of the insert may rotate along an axis toward the proximal end of the humeral cup and along the same axis away from the proximal end of the humeral cup.
|PROSTHETIC IMPLANT AND METHOD OF IMPLANTATION - A prosthetic implant useful in a cementless application is disclosed. The implant may include a curved bone facing surface and one or more pegs or keels. Preferably, the implant is implanted on a bone surface that has been prepared so as to allow for a snap fit between the implant and the bone.
|CONSTRAINED PROSTHETIC KNEE WITH ROTATING BEARING - A constrained prosthetic knee having a modular hinge post and a rotating bearing. A cannulated hinge post is rotatably connected to the femoral component of the knee prosthesis so that a hinge post extension may be anteriorly positioned through the hinge post and into the tibial component of the knee prosthesis, after positioning of the femoral component in the femur and the tibial component in the tibia. The hinge post is preassembled to the femoral component so that such assembly is not required during the implantation procedure. A meniscal component forming the rotating bearing of the knee prosthesis is packaged together with the hinge post extension so that the appropriate hinge post extension is readily available. The meniscal component includes a mechanism for preventing lift off of the meniscal component from the tibial component, while allowing rotation of the meniscal component relative to the tibial component.
|DEVICE FOR UNICOMPARTMENTAL KNEE ARTHROPLASTY - A device for unicompartmental arthroplasty of the knee. The device permits arthroplasty of the medial and/or lateral tibial condyle, and allows for securing of the device without the use of bone cement. Such a device comprises a baseplate, the baseplate comprising a first surface configured to be secured to a surgically prepared medial (or lateral) compartment of a proximal end of a patient's tibia, and an opposing second surface configured to replicate a medial (or lateral) tibial condyle; a flange adjacent the baseplate, the flange shaped to interface with a surgically prepared anterior surface of the proximal end of the patient's tibia, the flange comprising an orifice therethrough; and at least one anchor protruding from the first surface, the at least one anchor arranged to coincide with at least one corresponding surgically prepared void in the patient's tibia.
|FINGER PROSTHESIS - A finger prosthesis comprising a tip for simulating different functions of a finger and a ring for attaching the prosthesis to a stump. The finger prosthesis further includes a joint coupled between the tip and the ring, wherein the joint includes an interlocking mechanism configured to allow the joint to rotate at lockable intervals so as to lock the tip into different positions during a flexion period of the finger prosthesis.
|MEDICAL STENT AND PRODUCTION METHOD OF MEDICAL STENT - The medical stent includes: a main body formed into an approximately tubular shape along a longitudinal axis with a first resin material; an elastic member formed of a second resin material which is larger in flexural modulus than the first resin material, and configured to have one end portion connected to an end portion of the main body and the other end portion formed to extend to the central portion side of the main body along the longitudinal axis and also to direct to the radial direction of the main body; and a treated layer formed between the end portion of the main body and the one end portion of the elastic member and configured to have a functional group for joining the end portion of the main body and the one end portion of the elastic member to each other.
|BILAYERED BONE GRAFT DEVICE - A bilayered bone graft device includes a core portion comprising deminernalized gelatin and a shell portion surrounding the core portion. The shell portion includes a calcium silicate and the deminernalized gelatin in a range of 1 to 30 weight percent, and the calcium silicate has a molar ratio of calcium to silicon ranging from 10 to 0.1. The core portion and the shell portion are bound by the deminernalized gelatin without using a binder. In one embodiment of the present invention, the core portion is configured to provide buffering for receiving an insertion, and the shell portion is configured to provide a load-bearing structure.
|Implants and Methods for Correcting Tissue Defects - The present invention relates to mosaic implant (
|BONE GRAFT SUBSTITUTE - A bone graft substitute in the form of an implantable three-dimensional scaffold that includes calcium phosphate and has pores. The scaffold is impregnated with a calcium and/or phosphate containing substance, and the dissolution rate DR
|BIOERODIBLE WRAPS AND USES THEREFOR - A tubular tissue graft device is provided comprising a tubular member and a restrictive fiber matrix of a bioerodible polymer about a circumference of the tubular tissue. The matrix may be electrospun onto the tubular tissue. In one embodiment, the tubular tissue is from a vein, such as a saphenous vein, useful as an arterial graft, for example and without limitation, in a coronary artery bypass procedure.
|REPAIRED ORGAN AND METHOD FOR MAKING THE SAME - A repaired ex vivo organ suitable for transplantation in a human, said repaired ex vivo organ having undergone ex vivo organ perfusion for a maintenance period, wherein said organ had been assessed as being unsuitable for transplantation into a human before the maintenance period and was determined to be suitable for transplantation after the maintenance period.
|POWERED LEG PROSTHESIS AND CONTROL METHODOLOGIES FOR OBTAINING NEAR NORMAL GAIT - A powered leg prosthesis including a powered knee joint with a knee joint and a knee motor unit for delivering power to the knee joint, a powered ankle joint coupled to the knee joint including an ankle joint and an ankle motor unit to deliver power to the ankle joint, a prosthetic foot coupled to the ankle joint, a plurality of sensors for measuring a real-time input, and controller for controlling movement of the prosthesis based on the real-time input. In the powered leg prosthesis, at least one of the knee motor unit or the ankle motor unit includes at least one drive stage, where the drive stage includes a rotary element for generating torque and at least one looped element affixed around the rotary element and configured for transmitting the torque to another rotary element coupled to a joint to be actuated.
|KNEE JOINT PROSTHESIS - A knee joint prosthesis is adapted for interconnecting a prosthetic lower leg and a prosthetic thigh. The knee joint prosthesis includes a knee seat disposed under and connected to the prosthetic thigh, a connecting seat disposed above and connected to the prosthetic lower leg, a link assembly, and an adjusting unit. The link assembly includes a plurality of links each connected pivotally to the knee seat and the connecting seat in such a manner to allow the knee joint prosthesis to change between an elevated position and a flexed position. The adjusting unit is disposed in the knee seat, and is operable to cooperate with the link assembly to adjust difficulty level of changing the knee joint prosthesis between the elevated and flexed positions.
|CONTROL SYSTEM AND CONTROL METHOD FOR IDENTIFYING CORRESPONDING POSITION - The disclosed exemplary embodiments relates to a control system and a control method for identifying corresponding position. The control system includes a plurality of electronic control modules, each electronic control module having a microcontroller electrically coupled to at least one joint, and the joint is configured for connecting to a joint of neighboring electronic control module. The electronic control modules include a main-control-terminal electronic control module, an assembling electronic control module and at least one detecting electronic control module. The main-control-terminal electronic control module is configured for assigning one of the electronic control modules to be the assembling electronic control module, and assigning the rest of the electronic control modules to be the detecting electronic control module. The assembling electronic control module is configured for obtaining an identifying signal of the neighboring electronic control module so as to recognize the corresponding position of the electronic control modules.
|DEVICE FOR CONTROLLING WASHING MACHINE AND CONTROL METHOD THEREOF - Disclosed is a control apparatus and method of a clothes treating machine. Power consumption can be expected or detected when an operation of the clothes treating apparatus is determined, and greenhouse gas emissions to an energy source or electricity prices according can be expected on the basis of power consumption. In addition, reasonable operations can be determined on the basis of recommended operation conditions provided by the clothes treating apparatus, and power consumption of the clothes treating machine, greenhouse gas emissions to an energy source or electricity prices can be easily calculated without providing an additional complicated power detection circuit.
|METHOD AND DEVICE FOR FANTASY SPORTS PLAYER RECOMMENDATIONS - A method and device generates a fantasy sports recommendation. The method includes receiving a plurality of ranking values associated with a sport player, each of the ranking values being generated from a respective source. The method includes assigning a weight value to each of the ranking values, the weight value being associated with the respective source. The method includes generating a recommendation value for the sport player as a function of the ranking values and the corresponding weight values. The method includes receiving a selection value for the sport player. The method includes determining a further weight value for each of the sources as a function of the selection value, the recommendation value, and the weight value for the corresponding source.
|METHOD AND DEVICE FOR FANTASY SPORT PLAYER RECOMMENDATIONS - A method and device are for fantasy sport applications including receiving a plurality of ranking values associated with a sport player; assigning a corresponding weight value to each ranking value; determining a score value as a function of the ranking value and the corresponding weight value; determining a final ranking value as a function of the score values for the sport player; and generating a recommendation for the sport player as a function of the final ranking value.
|ENTERTAINMENT SYSTEM FOR PERFORMING HUMAN INTELLIGENCE TASKS - A game engine is configured to accept human intelligence tasks as in-game content and present the in-game content to the game player. Human intelligence tasks, such as visual discrimination, are thus enabled in a video game context. The game engine may receive a definition of human intelligence tasks from one or more remote sources present the human intelligence tasks to multiple video game participants as in-game content. The game engine defines and enables game play rules for the in-game content. The game play rules set parameters for the multiple video game participants to perform the human intelligence tasks to achieve desired results. The game engine may award each of the multiple video game participants an improved game score upon successful performance of the human intelligence tasks in accordance with the game play rules. The game engine may measure success by consistency in responses between different participants or trials.
|MICRO-PROCESSING DEVICE CONTROL SYSTEM AND METHOD OF USE THEREOF - A micro-processing device control system is provided. The system includes a micro-processing device, and a further electronic device connectable to or capable of communication with said micro-processing device to allow said micro-processing device to control one or more functions of said further electronic device. The micro-processing device includes audio connection means and microphone connection means. The audio connection means are arranged so as to be able to transmit one or more audio data signals and control data signals to said further electronic device. The microphone connection means are arranged so as to be able to receive one or more audio data signals and control data signals from said further electronic device for allowing control and/or feedback from said further electronic device to said micro-processing device.
|Surface data acquisition, storage, and assessment system - A surface data acquisition, storage, and assessment system for detecting and quantifying similarities or differences between stored data and data collected from a scan. The system operates utilizing a method that decreases the time required for calculating a pose estimate thus increasing its performance making it more practical for applications that require real-time operations. In a preferred embodiment the system comprises one or more sensing components for scanning and measuring surface features of an object for determining the identity of the object, and determines differences between data obtained from two or more scans.
|Manufacturing Control System - A method and apparatus comprising a tracking system and a controller in communication with the tracking system. The tracking system is configured to identify characteristics about a group of portable machines configured to perform a number of manufacturing operations on a workpiece. The controller is configured to control performance of the number of manufacturing operations on the workpiece using the characteristics about the group of portable machines identified using the tracking system.
|RAPID CONVERTING OF SHEET MATERIAL METHODS AND APPARATUS - Methods and apparatus provide an input for a user located remote from a cutting machine to cut a part. The user can instruct the cutting machine to cut the part to the user's specification in many ways, for example such that the user can instruct the cutting machine without having knowledge of the machine's cutting processes or construction. The methods and apparatus of the embodiments described herein can convert a machine processes into an image of the part to be cut such that the user can easily view and understand the image of the part to be cut remote from the cutting machine.
|COMPREHENSIVE ANALYSIS OF QUEUE TIMES IN MICROELECTRONIC MANUFACTURING - A system for determining a group of semiconductor manufacturing process steps with a similar influence on individual semiconductor products. The system generates a first table including time stamps for the individual semiconductor products. The system creates a second table including Q-times based on the first table. The Q-times refers to time differences between every pair of the time stamps. The system forms a dependency table by grouping the Q-times with similar dependencies together. The system identifies groups of the similar dependencies. The system extracts semiconductor process steps belonging to the groups.
|CONTROL SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR MATERIAL PROCESSING - Various embodiments are directed to methods of controlling torque delivered to a device for working material, the methods may comprise receiving, by a computer, a first value indicating an actual torque delivered by a common motor of the device to at least a portion of a plurality of work rolls of the device. The plurality of work rolls may be driven by the common motor, and may be arranged along a line direction aligned with an entry end. The methods may also comprise setting, by the computer, a torque limit for the common motor equal to the first value plus a torque limit increment for an additional work roll selected from the plurality of work rolls.
|Capturing Data During Operation of an Industrial Controller for the Debugging of Control Programs - An industrial controller module (
|AUTOMATED PLY LAYUP SYSTEM - An automated ply layup system uses a robot and an end effector for selecting plies from a kit and placing the plies at predetermined locations on a tool.
|MACHINE SHOP INCLUDING COMPUTER SYSTEM THAT INTERFACES WITH DIFFERENT LEGACY SERVERS - A machine shop comprises a computer system programmed to automatically determine an access role for a worker in response to a log-in; automatically determine at least one task for the worker based on the access role; and automatically interface with different legacy servers to order, subject to the access role, at least one of machine tooling for the machining of the part, product materials to be machined, and distributed numerical control (DNC) data for the machining of the part.
|DISTRIBUTED CNC TOOLPATH CALCULATIONS - Apparatus, including a workstation (
|NUMERICAL CONTROL DEVICE AND CONTROL METHOD OF NUMERICAL CONTROL DEVICE - A numerical control device includes a retraction-direction decision unit that decides a retracting direction of the tool when determining that the tool deviates from the movable range, and a tool-locus correction unit that corrects a locus of the tool based on this retracting direction so that a distance between the tool and a rotation center of a table while retracting is equal to or larger than a distance between the tool and the rotation center of the table at a time of either the start of rotation of the table or the end of the rotation of the table. According to the present invention, it is possible to avoid a stroke-over while avoiding interference between the tool and a workpiece when a table rotation command that possibly causes a stroke-over on the linear axis is issued while executing a control on a coordinate system other than a machine coordinate system.
|Robotic Unscrambler and Method - A robotic unscrambler apparatus is provided that ensures articles that are delivered in an initial orientation are transported in a conveyable orientation for further treatment at one or more stations in a production line. The apparatus includes a conveyance apparatus and at least one picker. An uprighting device is provided with a series of guides. The picker removes articles from the conveyance apparatus, and places the articles onto one of the guides. The uprighting device moves the guides between article placement positions and article conveyance positions. Each guide may include a contoured article support surface that facilitates centering of an article placed thereon.
|ROBOT-ENABLED CASE PICKING - A robot-enabled method of picking cases in a warehouse is provided. A robotic vehicle includes a processor configured to access a memory, a user input device, an output device, and a load platform, and has access to an electronically stored representation of a warehouse. The representation includes a map that defines aisles for storing items arranged as pick faces within the warehouse. A pick list is generated from an order; the pick list provides identifications of items to be picked to fulfill the order. Determined from the pick list is a plurality of stops at pick faces associated with the items. A route within the map is generated that includes the plurality of stops. The robotic vehicle iteratively guides itself along the route and automatically stops at each of the plurality of stops to enable loading of the items from the pick list onto the load platform.
|Transport Method and Transport Apparatus - Provided is a transport method comprising judging whether there is a possibility that misalignment greater than or equal to a threshold value occurs between substrates to be layered that are held by a pair of substrate holders aligned and stacked by an aligning section, the misalignment occurring when the pair of substrate holders is transported from the aligning section to a pressure applying section; and if the judgment indicates that there is the possibility of misalignment, transporting the pair of substrate holders to a region other than the pressure applying section. Whether there is the possibility of misalignment may be judged based on at least one of an acceleration of the substrate holders, an acceleration of a transporting section that transports the substrate holders, relative positions of the substrate holders, or relative positions of the transporting section and one of the pair of substrate holders.
|DYNAMIC REFILL LEVEL FOR MEDICATION DISPENSING APPARATUS - A dynamic refill level is used for determining medication refill requirements for a medication at a medication dispensing apparatus. When a medication refill report process for a medication dispensing apparatus is triggered, a quantity of medication likely needed to fulfill orders for a medication from the medication dispensing apparatus until a next scheduled refill is determined. A dynamic refill level is set for the medication based on the quantity of medication likely needed. A current count for the medication in the medication dispensing apparatus is compared against the dynamic refill level. If the current count satisfies the dynamic refill level, there is no need to refill the medication. However, if the current count does not satisfy the dynamic refill level, there is a need to refill the medication.
|ADA COMPLIANCE IN VENDING MACHINES - An ADA compliant vending machine ensures provides a user control for entering an ADA mode, and displays all user-actuated vend transaction controls below a first specified height when operating in the ADA mode. A delivery bucket surface on which vended products are supported moves between a lowered position below a second specified height and a raised position above the second specified height in coordinate operation with opening of the delivery bin door. Products are dropped below the second specified height during delivery but are raised above that height for customer retrieval. Mechanical force required to open the delivery bin door is less than five pounds, even with closing of anti-pilfer flaps also being coordinated with opening of the delivery bin door.
|Computer-Controlled Common Access Cabinet - A control system for a common access cabinet having a plurality of drawers and electrically controlled latches. Each latch corresponds to one drawer and is configured to receive an electrical signal. The electrical signal contains an address assigned to a particular drawer. When a latch receives a signal that defines the address of the drawer to which that latch corresponds, the latch unlocks that corresponding drawer. The latches receive the signals over an asynchronous serial interface bus. A user input device receives user identification data that is processed by a processor device to determine if the user is authorized to access any of the drawers. If the user is authorized, the processor device generates a signal that contains an address that corresponds to a drawer identified in the user identification data. The signal is converted to an asynchronous serial signal which is routed to the asynchronous serial interface bus.
|Method for Mounting Components by Means of an Industrial Robot - The invention relates to a method for mounting a component (
|RPM Controller Using Drive Profiles - A control circuit for controlling the rotational speed of a fan may include a memory element to store operating data corresponding to an operational profile of the fan defined by RPM (revolutions per minute) versus temperature, with the operating data comprising a respective temperature value and a respective RPM value for each respective operating point representing a change in slope of a function that corresponds to the operational profile of the fan. A processing unit may receive a present temperature value, retrieve the operating data from the storage unit, and identify a pair of consecutive operating points corresponding to the present temperature. The processing unit may calculate a desired RPM value corresponding to the present temperature value by performing linear interpolation between the pair of consecutive operating points, and provide the desired RPM value to a closed-loop fan controller to control the fan according to the desired RPM value.
|Model Based System and Method for Estimating Parameters and States in Temperature Controlled Spaces - A method for estimating a heating/cooling load of a zone within a building may include determining a measured parameter from the zone, generating a reduced order thermodynamic model of the zone, generating an Extended Kalman Filter based on the thermodynamic model of the zone, and processing the measured parameter using the Extended Kalman Filter to estimate at least one unknown state of the zone, such as an estimated load. A similar method may be used to estimate a temperature in a cold room of a refrigeration system.
|OPERATIONAL LOGIC FOR PRESSURE CONTROL OF A WELLHEAD - Methods and apparatus are provided for controlling production from a well by monitoring a parameter at a wellhead and adjusting a choke in an effort to maintain a desired parameter (e.g., a tubing head pressure (THP), bottom home pressure (BHP), a flow rate, or water cut (WC)). For some embodiments, a time window may be used for calculating a running average of parameter samples, and a proportional-integral-derivative (PID) control loop may be utilized to determine the difference between the running average and a parameter setpoint and to output a signal based on the difference to adjust the choke opening accordingly. In this manner, control of production from an individual well may be more accurate and reliable. Furthermore, for multiple wells coupled to a gathering center, maintaining a constant parameter for each of the multiple wells may enable stable operation of a gathering system and desired hydrocarbon production from each of the wells.
|Constant Low-Flow Air Source Control System And Method - A constant low-flow air source control system and method is used to operate a pump to inflate an inflatable support structure used to support a person.
|DEVICE FOR SUPPLYING WATER WITH TEMPERATURE AND FLOW ADJUSTMENT AND RELATED USAGE METHODS - Device for supplying water with temperature and flow adjustment and related usage methods. Temperature and flow adjustment device of the type comprising a cold-water inlet and a hot-water inlet each provided with solenoid valves that are adjustable by the user using means for selecting the flow rate and temperature of the water mixed to be supplied and a control unit to adjust the flow rates of cold water and hot water supplied by the respective inlets, in which the device also comprises a mixer connected downstream of said solenoid valves and a mixed-water output characterized in that the inlets of said mixer coming from said solenoid valves face one another.
|ENERGY MANAGEMENT SYSTEM - The purpose of the present invention is to provide an energy management system that works both to reduce energy and to maintain amenity in each building. The energy management system (
|System and Method for Controlling Charging For Energy Usage - A system for controlling charging for energy usage is provided. The system may comprise a plurality of devices powered by electricity and a management network managing energy usage consumed by the plurality of devices. Each device of the plurality of devices may include a sensing unit for measuring energy usage consumed by the device, and a transmitting unit for transmitting the measurement of the energy usage to the management network. The management network may include a receiving unit for receiving the measurement transmitted by the transmitting unit, an identification unit for identifying a device for which the received measurement has been measured, and a charging unit for controlling charging to a user of the identified device based on the received measurement.
|Intelligent Solar Energy Collection System with a Dedicated Control Device - A solar energy collection system comprises a plurality of solar panels and a control device. The panel further comprises a plurality of solar modules, a supporting, pivoting and tilting mechanism, a controller and a short range communication unit. The control device comprises an orientation detector for determining the optimized orientation of a panel towards the sun for receiving maximum sun radiation. The control device further comprises a communication unit. The optimized orientation determined by the control device may be transmitted to the solar panels through an ad hoc communication network.
|POWER CONSUMPTION PREDICTION SYSTEMS AND METHODS - A power consumption prediction system includes a plurality of power meters, each power meter being coupled to a particular consumer in a local usage area and configured to measure power provided to the particular consumer and to form a power usage profile for the particular consumer based on the measured power. The system also includes a consumption monitor in communication with the plurality of power meters that includes storage for storing power usage profiles received from the power meters and is configured to couple demographic information to the power usage profiles to form a local usage area profile. The system also includes a usage predictor that forms a usage prediction for a new local usage area, different than the local usage area, based on the local usage area profile and demographic information related to the new location usage area.
|SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR MANAGING LOADS - According to one aspect, embodiments of the invention provide a system for a facility, comprising a central controller configured to monitor power drawn by loads in the facility from a power source, and a plurality of load controllers, each configured to control an operational status of an associated load, to be coupled to the central controller, and to transmit a power request from the associated load to the central controller, and wherein the central controller comprises a power profile for each one of the associated loads, and is configured to receive a power request and conduct an evaluation of the power request based on current power drawn by loads in the facility, power capacity available, and the power profiles, and based on the evaluation provide a response to control an operational state of a load associated with the at least one of the plurality of load controllers.
|METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR EVALUATING REPAIR AND REMEDIATION ALTERNATIVES FOR HEAT EXCHANGERS - A method is provided for evaluating simultaneously the effects of multiple, interdependent heat-exchanger degradation modes for a heat exchanger of a power plant in the context of a series of alternative heat-exchanger remediation strategies. The method includes calculating time-varying predicted future progressions of heat exchanger performance metrics for a plurality of alternative heat-exchanger remediation strategies, and calculating time-varying predicted future progressions of financial metrics describing the accumulated financial benefit of each of the strategies. The calculations may be provided in probabilistic terms. A strategy may then be chosen based, at least in part, on the calculated results.
|Active Cloud Power Management System for a Secondary Battery - The present invention discloses an active cloud power management system for a secondary battery. This power management system is able to actively handle electrical properties of the secondary battery and provide a user with a general status message or a real time early warning message about the secondary battery, so that an efficiency of use and safety of the secondary battery can be maintained by active monitoring and reminding services.
|Sensor Interface for Wireless Control - Systems and methods for enabling communication with a wired sensor are provided. A wired sensor may be adapted for wireless communication using a sensor interface. A sensor interface is communicatively coupled with a wired sensor that provides information about a detected environmental condition. The sensor interface wirelessly transmits information received from the wired sensor to a controller that may control an electrical load based on the wirelessly transmitted information.
|DR COUNTERMEASURE PROPOSAL DEVICE AND METHOD THEREOF - There is provided a DR (Demand Response) countermeasure proposal device in which the communication unit receives a power consumption reduction, the rule database stores instrument control rules related to instruments, the rule ranking history database stores information on a ranking of the instrument control rules, the display displays the instrument control rules according to the ranking, the rule ranking changing unit changes the ranking of the instrument control rules in response to an instruction input from the customer, the DR execution unit selects at least one instrument control rule by execution of which the power consumption reduction request is satisfied in descending order of the ranking of the instrument control rules, and executes the at least one instrument control rule to control operation of at least one instruments related thereto.
|Energy Saving at a Network Node in an Automation Network - A method for saving energy at a network node in an automation network comprising receiving energy saving command data for switching at least one network device to an energy saving state, forwarding the energy saving command data to the network device, evaluating the energy saving command data by the network node, and saving energy at the network node. When the network node receives and/or outputs no data or a reduced volume of data to the network device during the energy saving state, the energy saving is effected by placing at least one portion of the network node into an energy saving state, where the portion is determined by any one of a plurality of network ports, which, because of the energy saving state of the network device, is being used to output and/or receive no data or a reduced volume of data.
|SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR GENERATING VEHICLE DRIVE CYCLE PROFILES - A system and method for generating vehicle drive cycles. Information describing a path of travel and a vehicle are received from a user. A detailed representation of the path of travel is obtained. Road condition information for segments of the path of travel is obtained, and the path of travel is verified as being traversable by the described vehicle. This information is used to generate a drive cycle profile, which contains at least the simulated path traversed by the vehicle, the speed of the vehicle along segments of the path, and any ambient conditions taken into account when predicting the speed of the vehicle.
|VEHICULAR ELECTRONIC CONTROL DEVICE, RELATED INFORMATION ACQUISITION DEVICE, AND METHOD FOR CONTROLLING THE SAME - A behavior determination unit determines whether a predetermined vehicle behavior occurs in an own vehicle. A driving information storage unit stores driving information of the own vehicle in a storage portion on determination that the predetermined vehicle behavior occurs. When the predetermined vehicle behavior occurs, a behavior transmission unit transmits behavior occurrence information to an outside of the own vehicle to notify a related information acquisition device, which is around the own vehicle and acquires related information related to the predetermined vehicle behavior, of the occurrence of the predetermined vehicle behavior. In this case, the behavior transmission unit further requires the related information acquisition device to store the acquired related information.
|DATA LINK FOR USE WITH COMPONENTS OF REMOTE CONTROL VEHICLES - Electronic components that are operable within remote control vehicles include Electronic Speed Controllers, radio control receivers, and telemetry transmitters. Hardware and software are described that support communication between a user computer and electronic components. A data link device has analog input and output interfaces that communicate to a mobile computing device such as smartphone. The data link device communicates with a electronic component to send and receive data such as parameters or operational data over a wired bidirectional bus interface. Software for performing data link operations run for example on an electronic component, a mobile computing device, a smartphone, a data link device, or a telemetry receive radio, or a combination of the above. Embodiments include software operable on a smartphone and a data link device that enables parameter or operational data communication between a smartphone and an electronic component using the microphone and speaker interface on the smartphone. Embodiments include software operable on an electronic component and a data link device for performing live-mode communication to a mobile computing device that displays live data.
|METHOD OF CONTROLLING THE STEERING OF A STEERABLE PORTION OF AN AIRCRAFT UNDERCARRIAGE - The invention relates to a method of controlling the steering of a steerable portion of an aircraft undercarriage that is fitted both with a steering member for steering the steerable portion and also with at least two angular position sensors for sensing the angular position of the steerable portion in order to deliver respective signals representative of the angular position of the steerable portion, wherein the steering member is controlled by means of servo-control using information that is representative of the angular position of the steerable portion. According to the invention, the information representative of the angular position that is used is a mean of the angular positions sensed by the at least two angular position sensors.
|ROTOR TEMPERATURE ESTIMATION FOR AN ELECTRIC VEHICLE - In accordance with exemplary embodiments, rotor temperature estimation is provided for estimating rotor temperatures of an electric motor in an electric vehicle. A method comprises estimating a rotor temperature in a controller for an electric motor of a vehicle using a fast-mode rotor temperature estimator for a time interval, and then deactivating the fast-mode rotor temperate estimator after the time interval and activating a normal-mode rotor temperature estimator in the controller for the electric motor of the vehicle. A system comprises an electric motor, a resistance rotor temperature estimator including a limit value limiting a temperature estimate increase for temperature estimates, and a controller for the electric motor, which uses the temperature estimate and is configured to temporarily increase the limit value of the resistance rotor temperature estimator providing a fast-mode rotor temperature estimate.
|TORQUE CONTROL SYSTEM - A torque control system for a vehicle having a plurality of wheels, wherein at least two of the wheels are arranged to be driven by separate electric motors, the system comprising a master controller arranged to monitor the torque generated by at least one of the electric motors and upon a determination that the torque produced by the at least one electric motor is reduced as a result of a predetermined condition the master controller is arranged to adjust the torque generated in the at least one electric motor and/or another electric motor so that the torque generated by the at least one electric motor and the another electric motor are substantially the same.
|VEHICLE DRIVE CONTROL SYSTEM - A vehicle drive control system includes a motor, a rotational speed detector, an accelerator opening degree detector, a vehicle speed detector, a torque instruction outputting device, an attenuation filtering device, and a controller. The attenuation filtering device is configured to perform attenuation filtering to a torque instruction to attenuate a natural oscillation frequency component of a torque transmission system of a vehicle and configured to output a filtered torque instruction after the attenuation filtering. The attenuation filtering device is configured to identify an attenuation characteristic of the attenuation filtering if the rotational speed of the motor is smaller than or equal to a predetermined rotational speed and the torque of the motor is higher than or equal to a predetermined torque. The controller is configured to cause the motor to generate a torque corresponding to the filtered torque instruction.
|ELECTRICALLY DRIVEN VEHICLE - An electrically driven vehicle includes: a vehicle body; a first battery mounted in the vehicle body and usable for running; a generator unit that is detachably mounted in the vehicle body and charges the first battery; diagnosis means for diagnosing whether the generator unit is capable of generating power; and management means for performing a management of an amount of charge of the first battery according to a diagnostic result of the diagnosis means.
|FAILURE DETECTION DEVICE FOR VEHICLE - A failure detection device for a vehicle that detects a failure of a motor system includes a controller that changes a sensitivity for detection of a failure in the motor system in accordance with at least one of an operational condition of the motor system and a situation in which the motor system is operating.
|ELECTRIC VEHICLE - An electric vehicle that includes a hydrocarbon engine coupled with a generator, the generator comprising a positive source connection and a neutral source connection. The electric vehicle further includes a plurality of interconnected electrical energy storage devices, each electrical energy storage device comprising a positive terminal and a neutral terminal. Also included is a switching subsystem configured to successively electrically connect each electrical energy storage device to the generator for a selected time interval in a repeating cycle by electrically connecting the positive source connection of the generator to the positive terminal of an electrical energy storage device and electrically connecting the neutral source connection of the generator to the neutral terminal of the electrical energy storage device. The electric vehicle also includes a motor for propelling the vehicle.
|VEHICLE WITH EXTERNAL CHARGING - A vehicle can be charged by receiving electric power from an external power supply apparatus (
|MOTOR DRIVING SYSTEM FOR ELECTRIC VEHICLE - To provide a motor driving system for an electrically powered automotive vehicle, in which the drive motor is rotationally controlled to increase the reliability, the use is made of an angle sensor for detecting the relative rotational angle between a stator and a rotor of a drive motor for driving the electric vehicle and a controller for controlling the rotation of the drive motor on the basis of the relative rotational angle detected by the angle sensor. The angle sensor is provided in a plural number. The controller includes an angle sensor switching unit operable to select and activate one of the plurality of the angle sensors and then to switch over to an activation of another one of the angle sensors in the event that the one of the angle sensors is determined abnormal.
|AUTOMATIC GUIDED VEHICLE SENSOR SYSTEM AND METHOD OF USING SAME - An automatic guided vehicle (AGV) system for automatically transporting loads along a predetermined path is provided that includes a plurality of magnets distant from one another, wherein at least a portion of the plurality of magnets represent a positioning point, and a plurality of AGVs, wherein at least one of the plurality of AGVs includes a drive assembly and a sensor system configured to determine guidance information. The sensor system includes a circuit board, a two-dimensional array of giant magneto resistive (GMR) sensors along a surface of the circuit board, the GMR sensors configured to detect at least one of the plurality of embedded magnets when the GMR sensors are proximate thereto, and an electromagnetic coil extending around the circuit board and at least a portion of the GMR sensors, the electromagnetic coil configured to polarize the GMR sensors.
|DEEP LANE NAVIGATION SYSTEM FOR AUTOMATIC GUIDED VEHICLES - A method for automatically guiding a vehicle along at least a first of a plurality of rows comprising predefined centerlines. At least a second of the rows comprises a number of objects of known dimensions positioned at known locations along the centerline thereof. The method comprises the steps of scanning the objects from the vehicle, generating a set of data points representative of the locations of the objects relative to the vehicle, determining a sensed position and heading of the vehicle from the data points, comparing the sensed position and heading of the vehicle to a position and direction of the first row centerline, and generating offset and heading errors for the vehicle based on differences between the sensed position and heading of the vehicle and the position and direction of the first row centerline.
|METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR DETERMINING ROAD SURFACE CONDITION - A method, featuring robustness against changes in tire size, is provided for determining a road surface condition by dividing a time-series waveform of tire vibrations into windows without resorting to detection of the peak positions or measurement of the wheel speed. A time-series waveform of tire vibrations detected by a tire vibration detecting unit is windowed by a windowing unit. Time-series waveforms are extracted from the respective time windows, feature vectors X are calculated therefor, and then likelihoods Z for road-surface HMMs (hidden Markov models) are calculated. The likelihoods Z
|ELECTRIC VEHICLE FLEET CHARGING SYSTEM - An electric vehicle charging system comprises one or more system power and control modules (SPCM) and vehicle charging stations (VCS); wherein the SPCM distributes power from a power source to the VCS, and the VCS distributes power to one or more electric vehicles. Another electric vehicle charging system comprises an SPCM, VCS, a fleet management system (FMS) for monitoring and controlling the charging system, and a communications network for sharing information. A system for managing a plurality of electric vehicles comprises a plug-in module configured to collect and store information from an on-board diagnostics system of at least one of the plurality of electric vehicles, management software, a communications network, and a smart device software application for displaying system information. A computer-readable medium having computer-executable instructions for supporting a management system for a plurality of electric vehicles to extract, organize, and display information from the management system.
|MFCC AND CELP TO DETECT TURBINE ENGINE FAULTS - A fault detection and diagnosis method for a gas turbine engines comprises collecting a sensor signal from an acoustic or vibrational sensor at the gas turbine engine, pre-processing the sensor signal to remove predictable background, and extracting a feature set from the sensor signal using Mel-Frequency Cepstral Coefficients (MFCC) algorithms and/or Code Excited Linear Prediction (CELP) algorithms. Fault and non-fault states are reported based on comparison between the feature set and a library of fault and non-fault feature profiles corresponding to fault and non-fault states of the gas turbine engine.
|METHOD FOR MONITORING A COOLANT TEMPERATURE SENSOR OF A MOTOR VEHICLE AND CONTROLLER - A method for monitoring a coolant temperature sensor of a motor vehicle is provided, wherein an actual value (TCOist=TCOSt) of a coolant temperature (TCO) is determined by a coolant temperature sensor when an internal combustion engine of the motor vehicle is started (t=tSt), and the coolant temperature sensor is diagnosed as a functional coolant temperature sensor if the actual value (TCOist) of the coolant temperature (TCO) drops briefly (tmin
|METHOD FOR CALIBRATING INERTIAL SENSOR INSTALLED IN ARBITRARY POSITION ON BOARD VEHICLE AND SENSOR SYSTEM OF DYNAMICS OF VEHICLE ABLE TO BE INSTALLED ON BOARD IN ARBITRARY POSITION - A method calibrates an inertial-sensor device installed in an arbitrary position on board a vehicle and adapted to detect at least one entity indicative of vehicle dynamics along at least one direction of a local reference-coordinate system. The method includes steps of: acquiring by the inertial-sensor device at predetermined measuring times real-measured data indicative of the vehicle dynamics in the local reference-coordinate system; acquiring by a calibrating detector different from the inertial-sensor device, at sampling times coinciding with the measuring times, reference-measured data indicative of the vehicle dynamics in a vehicle-coordinate system; and generating a coordinate-transformation matrix adapted to correlate the entity measured in the local reference-coordinate system with a corresponding entity in the vehicle-coordinate system. Also, a sensor system of dynamics of the vehicle is able to be installed on board in an arbitrary position.
|SECURE DATA STORE FOR VEHICLE NETWORKS - A vehicle network system includes at least one module connected to a system of a vehicle, and a connectivity module. The connectivity module has a data store in communication with the at least one module. The connectivity module can write data to the data store. The data store permits read-only access of the data from the at least one module by a communications device.
|ACOUSTIC DIAGNOSTIC OF FIELDED TURBINE ENGINES - A method for diagnosing faults in an aircraft gas turbine engine comprises gathering an acoustic profile from an on-wing turbine, transmitting the acoustic profile to an analysis system, comparing the acoustic profile with known fault profiles, and scheduling maintenance steps based on whether the acoustic profile matches one or more of the known fault profiles. The known fault profiles are retrieved from a library of the analysis system.
|GUIDANCE OUTPUT DEVICE AND GUIDANCE OUTPUT METHOD - There are included an eco guidance determination unit that detects the occurrence of fuel-wasting operation during operation of a construction machine, and a guidance display control unit that stores guidance for energy saving corresponding to energy wasting operation; that, when fuel-wasting operation occurs, displays corresponding guidance for energy saving; and that also displays the corresponding guidance for energy saving at a predetermined timing after occurrence of the energy wasting operation.
|VEHICLE HARDWARE INTEGRITY ANALYSIS SYSTEMS AND METHODS - A method includes: receiving classification data for a hazard associated with a system of a vehicle, the classification data indicating a classification of the hazard under standard 26262 of the International Organization for Standardization (ISO); receiving fault tree data for a fault tree of the hazard; analyzing the fault tree data using a fault tree analysis (FTA) application; identifying a minimal cut-set for the hazard; retrieving standards data for the hazard based on the classification of the hazard, the standards data indicating a minimum value for minimal cut-sets under the 26262 standard; comparing a number of elements in the minimal cut-set with the minimum value; and indicating whether the minimal cut-set complies with the 26262 standard based on the comparison.
|Brake Monitoring System With Multiple Inputs - An air brake monitoring system for monitoring a pressure of the system and providing various alarms and/or warnings to a user including tire and brake status/alarms and providing for a backup alarm. The air brake monitoring system configurable to function with the existing wiring of the vehicle and including an air brake monitoring device to be positioned in the vicinity of a brake valve. The air brake monitoring system is further provided to monitor the electrical stoplight power transmitted to the ABS brakes as well as the vehicle static/dynamic condition.
|Method for Determining the Charge State of a Battery Pack - A method for determining the charge state of a battery pack consisting of a number "N" of individual battery cells, includes determining the charge state of each individual battery cell SOCi for all i=1,N. The mean value of the charge states of the individual battery cells, mean (SOCi), is also determined. The method further includes determining a weighting "w" from the equation where w=gw(mean(SOCi)). The following applies for the function gw(SOC): the function value tends towards a minimum value of wmin when the argument tends toward the minimum charge state of a complete discharge SOCmin. The function value tends toward a maximum value of wmax when the argument tends towards the maximum charge state of a complete charge SOCmax; and the function gw( )is continuous.
|REARVIEW ASSEMBLY WITH MULTIPLE AMBIENT LIGHT SENSORS - A rearview assembly configured for use with a vehicle and method are provided, wherein the rearview assembly includes a first light sensor generally facing forward with respect to an forward driving orientation of the vehicle and configured to detect ambient light, a second light sensor generally facing forward with respect to a forward driving orientation of the vehicle and configured to detect ambient light, a rearview component configured to display an image rearward of the vehicle, and a processor communicatively connected to the first light sensor, the second light sensor, and the rearview component, wherein the processor is configured to control the rearview component based upon light detected by at least one of the first and second light sensors.
|VEHICLE CONTROL DEVICE - A vehicle control device of a vehicle that can travel with inertia without transmitting power of an engine to drive wheels and stops an operation of an engine that generates power by fuel during an inertia travel as well as prohibits a regeneration control of a regeneration device that regenerates kinetic energy during a travel, wherein when it is estimated that predetermined energy in various types of energy in a vehicle fluctuates during the inertia travel, a regeneration control prohibition state of the regeneration device is released during the inertia travel, is provided.
|METHOD FOR DETERMINING AND DETECTING END STOPS OF A STEERING DEVICE OF A MOTOR VEHICLE AND A MOTOR VEHICLE USING SUCH METHOD - A method for determining and detecting end stops of a steering device of a motor vehicle, which has a servomotor, is provided. The method includes determining actual, mechanical end stops of the steering device and establishing software-controlled end stops after the actual, mechanical end stops are determined A motor vehicle comprising a steering device for the wheels of the motor vehicle is also provided. The steering device includes a servomotor and a control unit. The control unit controls the servomotor. The control unit is configured to specify software-controlled end stops for the wheels of the motor vehicle and to determine software-controlled end stops after reaching and determining actual, mechanical end stops of the wheels.
|INTERFACE FOR CYCLING THROUGH AND SELECTIVELY CHOOSING A MODE OF A VEHICLE FUNCTION - A system and method for cycling through and selectively choosing one of a number of predetermined modes of a vehicle function. The system includes an interface. The predetermined number of modes are arranged in a cyclic arrangement, wherein each mode is in a fixed relationship with the others. The interface is operable to index through the cyclic arrangement to return to the initial mode. The interface includes an interface body and a display. The display includes a plurality of indicators which indicate which vehicle system is being actuated. The interface is operable to cycle through and selectively choose one of a number of predetermined modes of the vehicle's ventilation system using the same motion. In a preferred embodiment, the interface is a button, which upon pressing indexes through a predetermined cyclic arrangement of predetermined modes and actuates the selected predetermined mode.
|SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR CONTROLLING ELECTRIC POWER STEERING ASSIST - An automotive vehicle may include an engine, an electric power steering system and at least one controller. The at least one controller may, during an auto stop event of the engine, reduce at a first rate an available electric power steering system current to a non-zero threshold value before fuel to the engine is shut off and reduce at a second rate different than the first rate the available electric power steering system current from the non-zero threshold value to 0 after fuel to the engine is shut off.
|STEERING SYSTEM IN A VEHICLE - A steering system of a vehicle in the transmission path between the steering wheel and the point of application of a servo unit includes a coupling element which is adjustable between a closed position transmitting a steering movement and a decoupled open position.
|STEERING CONTROL SYSTEM - In a steering control system, an ECU calculates a basic assist torque in accordance with a steering torque detected by a torque sensor, and a corrected assist torque by correcting the calculated basic assist torque in accordance with the position of a rack by making corrections so that the basic assist torque decreases when the rack moves from a predetermined first position, which is close to a first end of a movable range, to the first end or from a predetermined second position, which is close to a second end of the movable range, to the second end. The ECU determines either the basic assist torque or the corrected assist torque as the assist torque in accordance with the position of the rack. The ECU controls the drive of an actuator in accordance with the determined assist torque.
|STEERING CONTROL SYSTEM - In a steering control system, an ECU calculates a basic transfer ratio in accordance with a steering angle detected by a steering angle sensor or a corrected transfer ratio by correcting the calculated basic transfer ratio in accordance with the position of a rack. The corrected transfer ratio decreases when the rack moves from a predetermined first position close to one end of a movable range, to the one end or from a predetermined second position close to the other end of the movable range, to the other end. The ECU determines either the basic transfer ratio or the corrected transfer ratio as the transfer ratio in accordance with the position of the rack. The ECU controls an actuator for a variable gear ratio system in accordance with the transfer ratio.


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If you want to learn to express yourself in a new language, and do it at express pace, then the Rocket Express Learning System is just what you need.
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Reviews have not been edited in any way. Click here to see all customer reviews
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Check out this feature chart! ** competitors
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subset: commoncrawl


text:
Pennsylvania Criminal Laws
Pennsylvania's criminal statutes identify a wide range of illegal conduct that is made punishable by sanctions like imprisonment and fines. The pages below provide links to statutes, with select overviews, penalty ranges, and resources on a number of crimes, including assault, theft, DUI, and drug crimes.
Browse Pennsylvania Law by Topics
- Ohio Gambling and Lotteries Laws
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Most of us have had sunburn at least once in our lives; it is painful and uncomfortable. What can you do to for quick sunburn relief? Even before we answer that question, it is important that you know that if you get morning sun (before 11am) and late afternoon sun (after 4pm), you greatly reduce your chances of getting sunburned. The sun at these times, except on very hot days is not hot enough to cause sunburn.
So what can you do to manage sunburn?
- The first thing that you should do is take a pain reliever. It calms down the pain and you can concentrate on getting your skin better. Regular pain medication will do.
- Keep your skin moist. If it becomes dry, it cracks and becomes even more painful. You can use a moisturizing lotion; rub it in after every few minutes.
- Do not burst blisters. Not only is it painful, you are opening your skin and inviting an infection.
- Use a cold compress for the areas that are really bad. This also helps to control pain.
- Aloe vera is great for sunburn relief. In fact, it is great for a whole range of skin conditions including eczema. If you have an aloe plant nearby, cut a leaf off, slice it and gently apply the juice to the burnt areas. The relief is almost immediate. Also, you should take supplements rich in Vitamin A and Vitamin D, like fish oil or krill oil.
- Cabbage leaves will also give you relief. Mash them or blend them and apply them to the area. You can keep them in the fridge and apply them when they are cold. You will then feel better.
- Olive oil also works pretty well. Apply it where it hurts and repeat applications every few hours.
- Vinegar works as well. Mix a little in water and apply it on the skin. It will hurt quite a bit at first but it will settle and your skin will start to heal.
The best way to deal with sunburn is to avoid getting it in the first place. As tempting as it may be to skimp on clothes on hot days, always make sure that your arms, shoulders and back are covered in light fabric. Wear a hat to protect your face as well.
If you are looking for a quick way to get fit before the summer, make sure you read this review of the Insanity workout program… You can also try natural weight loss supplements like garcinia cambogia extract (find more info here)… This supplement is based on the extract of garcinia cambogia, a plant found in Malaysia, Indonesia, India…


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JT Paintball E-Kast Ready-To-Play Electric Paintball Gun KitItem Number: 12790339
Price: $119.99
Free Shipping Eligible on Qualifying Purchases Over $25! Up to $15 Shipping Credit. (See Promotion Details)
Product Information
Customer Reviews
The JT Paintball ® E-Kast Ready to Play gun Kit features the E-Kast gun with electronic trigger and multiple firing modes for quick shooting. The ready to play kit includes: gun, protective mask, pre-filled CO2 tank and 50 paintballs. The E-Kast can fire paintballs in Semi-Auto, 3-round Bursts or Full Auto shooting modes. The JT Paintball ® E-Kast Ready to Play Kit has everything you need to start paintballing today!
** Learn more about THE PROS CO2 Filling Services available at all DICK's Sporting Goods locations **
E-Kast Marker:
- Electronic marker capable of Full Auto fire at a rate up to 10 balls per second
- Multiple firing modes including Semi-Auto, 3-round Burst and Full Auto
- Double finger trigger for a comfortable fit and increased firing rate while in Semi-Auto
- Picatinny rail for adding accessories and customization
- Top cocking field strip pin for quick and easy cleaning of your marker in the field
- Offset feed port to sight down the barrel for increased visibility
Ready to Play Kit:
- Protective mask
- 200 ball capacity Hopper
- Prefilled CO2 Tank
- 50ct Paintballs
- Squeegee and Barrel Plug
- JT Paintball
DISCLAIMER: The sale or shipment of this product to residents of California, Connecticut, District of Columbia, Delaware, Illinois, Michigan, Massachusetts, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, and Puerto Rico is prohibited. We recommend the use of protective eyewear whenever using or near the use of this item.
Country Of Origin: China
Customer Reviews
Rated 3.3 out of 5�by 4 reviewers.
Rated 2 out of 5�by Tony K Barrel jam First time I used this gun I got about 8 shots off before the barrel jammed. After, clearing and cleaning the barrel I attempted to try again with the same results. I switched the plastic barrel that came with it with one from another gun and the gun shot perfect. I am also having problems getting the firing modes to change. Suggestion: If your going to buy this gun expect to have to purchase a new barrel also. April 23, 2014
Rated 1 out of 5�by Hard To Please Bad Gun But Excellent Customer Service Received this gun unpacked it and trashed package. Went to play it the following weekend. Cocked gun and the hammer froze with firing the first shot. Was not impressed with it at that time. Contacted Dicks Customer Service and explained gun froze before first shot and package has since been trashed. They were excellent in sending a replacement along with a pre-paid return label. So am waiting on second gun to rate product. However I would give Customer Service more than 5 stars. December 17, 2013
Rated 5 out of 5�by mom1 kids loved it bought two of these for my boys 9 and 11. They love playing with them. CO2 and paintballs supplied run out quickly. January 10, 2013
Rated 5 out of 5�by jcruz12 gun awsome gun shoots perfect and i will try to get a new one for me!!!!!!!!!!! October 27, 2012
1-4 of 4


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ESPO provides a professional and comprehensive solution for the procurement of highways products and services tailored to meet specific customer requirements.
Our established frameworks cover a wide range of highways products and services. They include:
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- Road weather forecasting service for winter road maintenance
- Other highways commodities - including highway de-icing salt, ready mixed and precast concrete
We can also establish more specific highways contracts for individual customers, such as surface dressing works, when our generic contracts do not cover the requirement. Please contact us for further details.
Why use ESPO for highways products and services procurement?
ESPO ensures best value and compliance with EU and UK legislation. Our service is completely independent and auditable with all stages being fully documented.
We provide formal and compliant procurement of highways products and services taking into account all the factors that are important to you during the process.
Some of our frameworks have been established collaboratively through partnerships with 'Pro5' Government Procurement Service (GPS), the Cabinet Office, Government Departments and other bodies including the Midlands Highway Alliance, giving the combined purchasing power to secure prices that are much more competitive than would be possible for customers to achieve if purchasing on their own.
Whilst our frameworks cover the majority of highways products and services, we know that customers may have more bespoke requirements that may not be fully covered. In such cases, ESPO will engage the market on your behalf to establish a specific contract to meet your needs or suggest alternatives that offer equivalent performance.
If the highways product or service you require is not listed above, please contact us.
For general enquiries, please contact email@example.com OR call 0116 265 7882
For contact details relating to specific contracts / frameworks, please use the drop down selector in the right hand column of this page.
When contacting ESPO, it will be helpful to have the following information about your highways products or services requirements to pass onto the buyer:
- Detailed specification of your highways requirements
- Important service factors such as price, service delivery, environmental factors
- Service commencement or product delivery date - please note that it is always best to contact us as early as possible in the process to ensure we can meet your timescales
- Any special requirements needed in the contract
We can then provide you with recommendations on available procurement options along with anticipated costs and timescales.


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We are looking forward to another great year here, but it won't happen without you. I hope you have a great New Year and spend some of your time with us. Invite your friends and family to join us too.
- December 31, 2012 at 10:24 am(1) David B says:
Thank you Billy for all of the great reports you've given us through this last year. Looking forward to many more in 2013. Happy New Year everybody!
- January 1, 2013 at 2:20 pm(2) shirley says:
Thank you again Billy. Happy New Year all.
- January 7, 2013 at 5:55 pm(3) Relento Weih says:
A most happiest New Year to you Billy and I always am thanking to you for fine articles and stories you Newsletters we get from yourself every week all weeks through the years.
Always intresting and glad to be reading from you.
Good Health to you and Happynesses.
- January 8, 2013 at 2:00 am(4) Vickie Ewing says:
Thanks Billy. Keep up the great work!!
- January 8, 2013 at 6:35 pm(5) l costner says:
happy new year billy wishing you the best this year & always i look foward to recieveing your comments every week thank you & keep up the good work. from a believer & 2 time wittness


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Register with us or sign in
From 0 ratings
Plant type
Hardy perennial
Flower colour
Skill level
This hardy annual produces thin, wiry stems. Each is topped with a deep purple ruffled flower, which is 5cm (2in) across with a green edge. The flowers attract wildlife, especially bees and butterflies. Careful deadheading should ensure a constant supply of flowers throughout the summer months. This cultivar prefers well-draining, neutral to alkaline soil and full sun.
Family: Dipsacaceae
Genus: Scabiosa
Species: atropurpurea
Cultivar: Chilli Sauce
Plant type: Hardy perennial
Flower colour: Purple
Foliage colour: Mid-green
Feature: Flowers
Sun exposure: Full sun
Soil: Well-drained/light
Hardiness: Hardy
Skill level: Beginner
Height: 60cm
Spread: 60cm
Time to divide plants: March to April
Flowering period: July to August
Be the first reader to review the Scabiosa atropurpurea 'Chilli Sauce' Pincushion flower!


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News from WTOP
News from the AP
Mike Causey
Shows & Panels
Shows & Panels
Shows & Panels
Shows & Panels
- The 2014 Big Picture on Cyber Security
- AFCEA Answers
- Ask the CIO
- Building the Hybrid Cloud
- CDWG/NetApp
- Connected Government: How to Build and Procure Network Services for the Future
- Continuing Diagnostics and Mitigation: Discussion of Progress and Next Steps
- Federal Executive Forum
- Federal Tech Talk
- The Intersection: Where Technology Meets Transformation
- Maximizing ROI Through Data Center Consolidation
- Moving to the Cloud. What's the best approach for me
- Navigating Tough Choices in Government Cloud Computing
- The New Generation of Database
- Satellite Communications: Acquiring SATCOM in Tight Times
- Targeting Advanced Threats: Proven Methods from Detection through Remediation
- Transformative Technology: Desktop Virtualization in Government
- The Truth About IT Opex and Software Defined Networking
- Value of Health IT
Shows & Panels
We've turned the corner in Afghanistan
Secretary of Defense Leon Panetta says the U.S. has turned the corner in Afghanistan. "In my book, the significant turning point in 2011 was that for the first time we saw the transition working, the Afghan Army able to do its job, and violence going down and that continues to be the trend," said Panetta. He said at a National Press Club speech, U.S. troops will be leaving Afghanistan, but the U.S. will still have a presence there.


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A wine bar in the middle of a shopping center— what's not to like? in Crocker Park at 287 Crocker Park Blvd. is like an oasis after a day of shopping.
The wine bar features a menu of wines by the bottle and by the glass. In addition to the wines, 87 West offers a variety of small plates, appetizers to share, flatbreads and desserts. My friend and I headed out on a weekday evening and were able to grab seats at one of the comfortable nooks. A fireplace and cozy seating make 87 West comfortable and welcoming.
We started with Taco Tots which are essentially nachos with tater tots – and were fantastic! Often times loaded tots don't stand up to the toppings, but these were just crispy enough to hold the chorizo queso and peppers that made them so tasty.
For dinner, my friend had a chicken quesadilla and while I had the Ahi & Avocado Tartar. They were extremely accommodating with my requests for customizations— something that I belive demonstrates the true character of a restaurant.
My friend's quesadilla full of cheese although she would have liked more chicken and enjoyed the crème fraiche as an alternative to sour cream. The Ahi & Avocado Tartar was light and flavorful— tasted like summer.
The service was relaxed, just like the atmosphere and we will definitely be returning next time we need a break from shopping.
Located in the center of Crocker Park Blvd, 87 West is open Monday through Thursday from 11 a.m. to midnight, Fridays and Saturdays from 11 a.m. to 2 a.m. and Sundays from noon to 9 p.m. A large patio is available during the warmer months.
87 West offers a variety of events. The September Food and Wine Pairing will feature red blends on Wednesday, Sept. 14, 2011 at 6:30 p.m. Call 87 West at 440-250-2334 for reservations for the event that costs $35.


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by Jerome Armstrong, Sun Feb 28, 2010 at 01:16:44 AM EST
Via Lib Dem blogger Mark Pack, Squier, Knapp, Dunn Communications, is going over to help the Tories in the UK:
Advisers close to U.S. President Barack Obama have been drafted by David Cameron to help the Conservatives in their election campaign against Gordon Brown and Labour.
The Tories have signed a contract with Squier, Knapp, Dunn Communications—a Washington-based Democrat-leaning political consultancy— to help them prepare for the first-ever television debates between leaders during a British election campaign...
However, it is the decision of the Tories to reach out across the traditional ideological divide to senior Democrats that is surprising. Their party usually has looked to Republican strategists for advice, with Labour and the Democrats retaining close links.
Ms. Dunn is a veteran of Democrat politics, beginning her career in Jimmy Carter's administration and subsequently working as a consultant on many election campaigns. She returned to the White House with President Obama but left late last year when her husband, Robert Bauer, the president's personal attorney, was unveiled as the incoming White House counsel.
Mr. Knapp made television ads for the Obama campaign, has worked on five presidential campaigns and played a leading role in Mayor Bloomberg's three election wins.
It would be a disaster if David Cameron were to take over as the PM of the UK. What is a Democratic firm doing helping him potentially do it?
I want to disclose too that WebStrong Group has worked with the Liberal Democrats, so I am rooting for the Conservatives or Labour to lack a majority. There's a good chance of that happening too, with the latest poll news showing what would be a split-decision (blog coverage here and here). The upcoming election could wind up resulting in a hung Parliament.
Tags: (all tags)


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One person was killed in a single-car crash Friday afternoon on northbound Interstate 405 in Kirkland around 3 p.m., according to Kirkland Firefighters.
An SUV hit a large sign post at high speed and then caught fire on northbound I-405 at the 8000 block, firefighters said in a post on IAFF Local 2545's Facebook page.
Other drivers pulled the motorist from the vehicle and started CPR.
The Washington State Patrol is investigating.


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How well do you think you know Crofton area restaurants? Patch is putting your knowledge of local cuisine to the test.
Do you know where around town you can find this chicken wrap? Leave your guess in the comments section below. The first person to get it right wins … bragging rights—exciting, I know.
I will post the answer and the winner at the top of the next Guess the Restaurant column.
Happy guessing!


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Armored Personnel Carriers – known by the acronym "APC" – remain one of the safest ways for militaries to transport soldiers into combat zones.
Primary Transport Role
Although frequently compared to a tank, an Armored Personnel Carrier, or APC, is used primarily to transport soldiers into battle. With a tough armoured exterior that is similar to a tank, APCs are able to safely carry infantry personnel into combat zones – protecting them from enemy fire, explosions, and shrapnel.
Most APCs are not equipped with the weapons that are found on tanks. Many models of APCs are armed only with a machine gun. As such, the vehicles are not designed to remain in combat or take part in fire fights. Some APCs run on tracks and other versions of the vehicle operate on wheels.
History and Development
Today, militaries around the world operate their own version of an APC. The British military is widely credited with developing the first APC during World War One. Known as the "Mark V," the vehicle was essentially a modified version of a tank, outfitted with a small compartment to carry soldiers. This rudimentary APC proved so successful that the British military developed a full APC, known as the "Mark IX," by 1918 and deployed it on battlefields across Europe.
By World War Two, versions of APCs had become standard for militaries fighting in combat. Vehicles such as the American M3 and German SdKfx 251 were used to carry infantry personnel into battle. During this time, soldiers began referring to the vehicles as "battle buses."
In the 1960s, the U.S. military developed the M113 armored personnel carrier. This was a fully tracked vehicle widely used during the Vietnam Conflict. The M113 was so prevalent during fighting in Vietnam that Viet Cong soldiers referred to the APC as the "Green Dragon." In addition to transporting troops into combat, the M113 was used to crash through the jungle and trample enemy camps. Variants of the M113 APC are still used today by the U.S. military. Some of the vehicles are outfitted with 50 caliber machine guns and anti-tank missiles.
Modern and Evolving Role
Some current APCs are amphibious, meaning they can travel in water as well as on land. While APCs are still used primarily for transportation, they can be outfitted with a variety of weapons that include mortars, flamethrowers, smoke screens, even nuclear weapons.
Armored Personnel Carriers have also been adopted and used by law enforcement agencies across the U.S. and in countries such as England, Germany and Australia. Law enforcement agencies use the vehicles primarily to transport police into armed standoffs, hostage takings, and other high pressure situations.


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Where can you find the best breakfast in Trenton?
Patch is asking you, your friends, family, neighbors, coworkers and anyone else who knows about a good breakfast spot around town to vote for the best spots in Trenton Patch.
You can vote through Aug. 17.
PS: Sign up for the Trenton Patch Newsletter to find out when voting starts so you can support your favorite institution in the Readers' Choice contest.


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The Chevelles Radio
Power-popsters the Chevelles formed in Perth, Australia in the early 1990s; comprising singers/guitarists Duane Smith and Adrian Allen, bassist Jeff Halley and drummer Julian Buckland, the group debuted in 1993 with the LP Gigantic, followed three years later by Rollerball Candy. ~ Jason AnkenyPortions of Content Provided by Rovi Corporation.
© 2014 Rovi Corporation.