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Sparkfun National Tour comes to Maui for Introduction to Arduino Workshop
Maui Makers and MEDB, Maui County OED
Saturday, October 19, 2013 from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM (HST)
Who's Going
San Francisco, California
London, United Kingdom
Florence, Italy
Event Details
Maui Makers, in cooperation with the County of Maui Mayor's Office of Economic Development, Maui Economic Development Board is proud to bring Sparkfun Electronics' National Tour to Maui to teach an "Introduction To Arduino" workshop on Oct 19th. Attendees will get a full day of instruction in the use of the Arduino Microcontroller, and 15 attendees get to keep their Sparkfun Inventors Kit (a $99.95 value, plus shipping!).
Update - Although the seats w/kits are sold out (2weeks ahead of time!), this is still an excellent 8hour training w/lunch. There are a total of 20 kits. We are keeping 5 for use in future workshops. Doubling up on them is really a good way to learn basics. You can buy your own arduino (and parts) at local Radio Shack stores, or online from a variety of vendors. Maui Makers plans to have some special ones in stock later this year.
The kit is a great way to get started with programming and hardware interaction with the Arduino programming language. The SIK includes everything you need to complete 15 circuits that will teach you how to read sensors, display information on an LCD, drive motors, and more. You don't need any previous programming or electronics experience to use this kit.
The workshop is intended for students of all ages (well maybe 4th grade up with parent) as well as teachers, librarians, after-school coordinators, and other educators, showing how electronics can be a vital part of education. Whether you've never played around with DIY electronics or you are a seasoned pro, we will give you the tools, knowledge, and skills you need to explore the wonderful world of how electronics fits with STEAM.
Please join us in revolutionizing the way electronics are taught in our high schools, middle schools, libraries, after-school programs, and even elementary schools! With your help, we can change the face of education!
The class will be held at MEDB's facility in Kihei from 9am-5pm with an hour for lunch (included).
Please bring your laptop to install/use the software if possible. (http://arduino.cc/en/Main/Software )
Reduced pricing on this event is thank to County of Maui Mayor's Office of Economic Development.
When & Where
MEDB Malcom Center
1305 North Holopono Street
Saturday, October 19, 2013 from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM (HST)
Add to my calendar
Maui Makers and MEDB, Maui County OED
We have about 4 seats left (w/o kits) today. The Sparkfun team is on island and enjoying the sights. They will be at our weekly Public Meeting tonight (thursday Oct 17) at the UHMC Science building auditorium 6-9pm. If you would like to come down and meet them, ask questions, check your software installation, etc, please come by!


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ApplianceWhirlpool Washer
Level of DifficultyEasy
Time to do repair1- 2 hours
Age of Appliance5 - 10 years
NutdriverScrew driversSocket set
I googled the problem and up popped partselect.com with the part that was probably needed. The part was priced very low and shipped very quickly. After ordering on Tuesday I received the part on Friday. It was rated as being an easy fix. I watched the video provided and followed the video instructions step by step. The only hard part was snapping the motor clip back into place.
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Note These procedures only apply if you have installed Microsoft Outlook with the Corporate Workgroup/Other option. This option allows you to use Messaging Application Programming Interface (MAPI) services. To determine your installation type, click About Microsoft Outlook on the Help menu. In About Microsoft Outlook, you should see Corporate if you have the Corporate Workgroup installation.
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Conclusions by Ansari and her colleagues deviate slightly from the conventional dogma that it is the protein that bends the DNA. She said the results raise important questions about the role that the DNA "bendability" plays in guiding the correct bending protein to the appropriate site on the DNA.
Ansari said the research adds to the basic understanding of how proteins recognize a specific binding site.
"Gaining better insights into protein-DNA interactions that control all aspects of gene regulation may prove useful for rational design of drugs to target specific sites on the DNA, whereby one can ultimately develop better gene-based therapies," she said.


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For the last 10 years Graeme Smith has dominated the South African Test team as few captains in the world have ever done.
Smith was given the leadership after just eight Tests which must be the most striking example of selection skill in the history of the game. It was the sort of decision that usually goes badly wrong but far from leaving the selection panel confused and embarrassed afterwards the decision had its greatest reward this week when Smith led his side out for the 100th time.
Now we have to debate which captain was the greatest; and it is not an easy question.
Australia has always reckoned that captaincy was an afterthought — "pick 11 players and then choose a captain" — but it has had any number of great leaders. My own favourite was Steve Waugh but Ian Chappell, his brother Greg, Mark Taylor, Warwick Armstrong, Don Bradman . . . the list is endless.
England takes pride in producing Mike Brearley, Ray Illingworth and Len Hutton while the West Indies had, in succession, Clive Lloyd and Viv Richards who were both great performers as well as fine captains.
Ranatunga's distinction
From the sub-continent — where the job has often been a poisoned chalice — the outstanding captain has been Arjuna Ranatunga who was one of Wisden's Five Cricketers of the Year on the basis of his leadership. He was a Sri Lankan warrior who taught his men that they had to fight and field as well as bat and bowl.
Smith can claim to be the world's best. He arrived in England, aged 22, built like a Churchill tank, wielding his bat as if he were leading the Norman invaders at the Battle of Hastings and made double centuries in his first two Test innings here.
It was, of course, his jaw that caught the attention. It stuck out so far you wondered if he could see his own toes and it reminded us of Desperate Dan, the comic hero many years ago.
Desperate Dan had a chin that was a wonder to behold. He was also a massive man who enjoyed cow pie for his supper so long as it contained a whole cow, his pillow was full of rubble and he shaved with a blow torch. I am no longer sure — since my comic days are now 50 years old — whether it was him or his grandma who knitted sweaters with a pair of telegraph poles. I can imagine Smith, like Brian Close, another Goliath of a cricketer, being able to perform all these feats and more.
On the cricket field he has already left a mighty mark although his captaincy is often described in less than flattering terms. I'll have none of that. Under him South Africa has gone to the top of the tree and if he cannot claim credit for that who can?
His batting — we'll forget those dainty little off-breaks from round the wicket which have brought him eight Test wickets at more than 100 runs apiece — has produced an average of 49.15 with 26 hundreds; in ODI's he has an average of 39.13 and in T20 his strike rate is 127. In all his first class batting he averages above fifty; truly he is a colossus as his biography in Cricinfo calls him.
If he lacks the Brearley intellect, the Waugh drive, or the Ranatunga ruthlessness he can still be the greatest of all the Test captains, with his team on top of the Test world and, at 32, his place in history is assured.
When his cricket life is over he can still earn a living as a Desperate Dan look-alike.


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Phase IIb Safety and Efficacy Study of Different Oral Doses of BAY94-8862 in Subjects With Worsening Chronic Heart Failure and Left Ventricular Systolic Dysfunction and Either Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus With or Without Chronic Kidney Disease or Chronic Kidney Disease Alone (ARTS-HF)
This study has been completed.
Information provided by (Responsible Party):
ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier:
First received: March 7, 2013
Last updated: December 16, 2014
Last verified: December 2014
- Full Text View
- Tabular View
- No Study Results Posted
- Disclaimer
- How to Read a Study Record
No Study Results Posted on ClinicalTrials.gov for this Study
|Study Status:
|This study has been completed.
|Study Completion Date:
|December 2014
|Primary Completion Date:
|November 2014 (Final data collection date for primary outcome measure)


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How to Become an Anesthesia Technician
Learn how to become an anesthesia technician. Research the education requirements, training, certification information and experience you will need to start a career in healthcare.
Do I Want to Be an Anesthesia Technician?
Anesthesia technicians help to ensure the current functioning of anesthesia equipment before, during and after surgical procedures. They contribute to safe and efficient anesthesia care by assessing dosages of medications given to patients and supporting the anesthesia provider during the insertion of medical devices. Many work hours might be spent standing; technicians may need to lift or turn patients.
Job Requirements
Anesthesia technicians are required to have at least a high school diploma. Some employers prefer to hire technicians who have completed a formal training program and earned certification. The following table contains essential requirements for anesthesia technicians:
|Common Requirements
|Degree Level
|High school diploma is minimum education level requirement; employers may look for applicants with a 2-year degree*
|Degree Field
|Varies; certification requires completing an ASATT-approved program*
|Certification is voluntary; must pass the ASATT national certification exam*
|At least one year of experience in a related setting may required**
|Key Skills
|Attention to detail; problem-solving and communication skills*
|Computer Skills
|Basic computer skills training*
|Technical Skills
|Must be able to operate, maintain and repair biomedical equipment and anesthetic devices such as ventilators and catheters****
|Additional Requirements
|Basic life support certification**
Sources: *American Society of Anesthesia Technologists and Technicians (ASATT), **Job Postings from employers (August, 2012) ***Westchester County Government, ****Michigan Jobs and Career Portal.
Step 1: Meet the Education Requirements
The minimum education requirement for entry-level anesthesia technicians is a high school diploma. Courses in math, science and technology may be beneficial in preparing for this career. Some employers prefer to hire technicians who have completed degree programs specifically designed for anesthesia technicians that cover related topics like medical terminology, pharmacology and anesthesia equipment functions.
Success Tip:
- Gain experience. Opportunities to gain experience and entry into the field include mentorships, job shadowing and internships. Students can use these opportunities to learn more about a technician's duties and gain hands-on experience in a health care setting.
Step 2: Earn Certification
Some employers prefer to hire technicians who have passed the American Society of Anesthesia Technologists and Technicians (ASATT) national certification exam. Currently, this is the only nationally recognized certification for anesthesia technicians. Individuals who pass this examination are referred to as Certified Anesthesia Technicians. In order to take the exam, candidates must have a high school diploma and at least two years of experience, graduated from an ASATT-approved 2-year program or an approved program that offers a clinical component. The certification exam covers topics such as infection control techniques, operating room tasks, and types of anesthesia.
Success Tip:
- Maintain certification. Certification is valid for two years. In order to remain certified, anesthesia technicians must complete a minimum amount of continuing education credits.
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- Salary and Career Information for a Bachelors Degree in Business


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"Brain asymmetry is essential for proper brain function," explains Professor Wilson. "It allows the two sides of the brain to become specialised, increasing its processing capacity and avoiding situations of conflict where both sides of the brain try to take charge.
"For example, faced with a predator, an animal would not want both sides of the brain to try to drive the escape as this might lead to conflict over which direction to turn. Instead, the animal might keep watch more with one eye (and consequently one half of the brain) and so each side of the brain might be dominant for particular activities."
Previous studies have shown that rearing chickens in the dark makes their brains less asymmetric. The chicks can still peck for food and watch out for predators, but only if doing one of these tasks at a time. When they try to do both, they are less efficient than fully asymmetric animals in which one eye specialises for one task and the other eye for the other task.
In humans, people with schizophrenia have disrupted brain asymmetries but as yet, it is not clear if there is a causal link between the asymmetry and schizophrenia.
"The direction and handedness that brain asymmetry takes is not critical for survival, but the strong bias towards one direction may be to ensure that all members of a population have consistent behaviours," adds Professor Wilson. "This may be very important for social animals, such as humans and schooling fish."
|Contact: Craig Brierley
Wellcome Trust


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Jones scored the first run of the game on a wild pitch in the fourth inning. He then doubled to deep left center field to bring two more runs home in the eighth and give his team their only extra-base hit in the game. Jones has hit .336/.381/.545 with six home runs and 25 RBI in 134 at-bats.
Paredes has started 17 games at the second spot in the order. Alejandro De Aza, who batted second in back-to-back games, was dropped to the No. 6 hole.
Baltimore is favored (-130) at home against the Angels, per VegasInsider.com.
David Lough will take over in left field on Wednesday, while Alejandro De Aza covers right field. Adam Jones will hit cleanup in the batting order.
Jones doubled, his seventh on the year and drove in his 22nd run. He's now hitting .360.
Jones, who collected all singles in the game, did his damage in the seventh inning when he drove in two runs to give Baltimore the lead. Jones is on a tear this year, hitting .402 with 21 RBI in 87 at-bats.
De Aza was given the day off on Thursday. De Aza has been enduring a 2-for-23 slump over his past six games and hasn't recorded a hit in his last 15 at-bats. De Aza will bat leadoff for the Orioles on Friday.
Rey Navarro will hit seventh and catcher Caleb Joseph will bat eighth. Outfielder Adam Jones is hitting cleanup.
Jones got things going early when he ripped an 0-1 pitch from Rick Porcello over the left center field wall for a two-run home run, his fifth of the season. Jones, who also singled twice, kept things rolling in the sixth when he ripped a double to deep center field with the bases loaded, driving home all three runners.
"I'm just trying to switch up some things, lay off offspeed and sit on fastballs the entire time," Jones said to MASN Sports. "If I get a hanging curveball or something, swing at it, but try to really hone in on not swinging at off-speed pitches early in the count to (not) get myself in a hole."
Jones now has a league-leading 16 RBI this season and is hitting .457 in 46 at-bats.
"He got going a little bit toward the end of spring. He was scuffling a little bit over there and all of a sudden he took off," Showalter said. "Adam's one of those guys where there's some convenient things to say and that fit, but they're not really the truth. If you go back on the pitches he's gotten for a base hit, maybe half of them are strikes. That's why it's so easy to sit there and go, 'Walk more.' Do you like 100 RBIs, do you like .289-300, do you like Gold Glove center field? Yeah, we'd like for him to be the perfect player, but there's no such thing. And we like him as he is. It can get frustrating for him sometimes, but it's kind of who he is. I can't tell you he's doing anything a whole lot different. He's seeing it and hitting it. He's whaling."
Jones has hit .429/.469/.929 with four home runs and 11 RBI in 28 at-bats.
Jones went one for three, bringing his average to .429 on the season. He drove in the first two runs of the game with a solo homer in the first and a sacrifice fly in the third.
"He's one of the best hitters in the game," Yankee starter CC Sabathia said. "He got a two-seamer and put a good swing on it (in the first inning). I felt like we pitched him a little better after that. But he's hot, and there's nothing you can really do."
Jones has four home runs and 11 RBI on the year.
"I never ask the why, just live with the results," Jones said. "I'm not going to jinx myself, not going to say I'm doing this or doing that. Just trying to be aggressive and get good pitches to hit and right now, I'm not missing them."
Jones was just 1 for 11 with a double and two RBI during the team's first series of the season but has exploded since coming home to Baltimore. He has two more home games against the Yankees on tap before hiting the road once again.
Jones has faced Tuesday starter CC Sabathia more than any other pitcher in his career, hitting .266/.304/.500 with three home runs and 12 RBI in 64 at-bats. The Orioles (-117) are favorites at home Tuesday.
Jones reached on an infield single in the second and later scored on a Manny Machado double. Then, Jones ripped a two-run home run in the sixth off pitcher Michael Pineda to deep center, his third homer of the year.
Jones, who now has nine RBI in 25 at-bats, is hitting .440 to start the season.
Jones followed that with an RBI single in the third to drive home Steve Pearce. He was also hit by a pitch in the contest. He boosted his average to .381 with two homers and seven RBI in 21 at-bats this season.
Jones went 4 for 4, had two RBI and scored two runs. Jones is now hitting .333 through four games. Two of Jones' hits were double and one was a solo home run in the first inning.
"It's cool, all that individual stuff is cool," Jones said, via The Baltimore Sun. "But you know me, I'm a team guy. We didn't win, I didn't win. All that individual stuff means nothing if we don't win."
"All I know is my body is starting to feel better, getting over that soreness," he said. "About the 24th, 25th, after that off-day, I'm going to start stretching out and getting back-to-back full games and get ready for the season.
"If anyone really looks at spring training numbers, look at Greg Maddux's spring training over his career. I think when the lights turn on and it matters most, that's when it counts. I don't think spring numbers really matter to me. I'm sure fans always look at something to complain about, talk about something. I know what our manager, what we've got going on here, it's all about April 6 through that last game of the season. That's what's important here."
"Don't believe a word they say," Markakis said. "It was all because of my neck. They can say what they want to make them look good. It's all B.S. But things work out the way they do for a reason, right?"
Markakis underwent neck surgery in mid-December and his status for opening day is undetermined. However, he is clearly upset with what went on in negotiations and while the Orioles front office has yet to respond, former teammate and friend Adam Jones took his turn Thursday to respond to Markakis' comments.
"I know what's going on, I know the truth," the Orioles' All-Star center fielder said, per MASNsports.com. "It's a move he made for himself. I never fault him for it.
"I talk to him all the time. I talk to him a couple times a week. I talked to him yesterday. It's not my situation, it's his situation with the Orioles. I'm not going to take anbody's side. I wasn't involved with it, so I really don't have an opinion with it."
Markakis, who had surgery to remove a herniated disc and fuse vertabrea, had been playing with the injury for two seasons.
"He never disclosed anything to anybody. He just goes out and plays," Jones said. "...He moved on. He understands the business and he moved on. He completely gets it. No hard feelings.
"I'm glad he said something because he never says anything. I'm glad he said something. He should say something. He has a lot on his mind. Very articulate man, very smart man. He doesn't say much, but when he does people listen, and he's got peoples attention. That's why you all are in front of me now."
New Orioles hitting coach Scott Coolbaugh is aware of Jones' aggressive approach at the plate, but added he won't try to do much to change his approach, per MASNsports.com.
"I think there are some things you can work with," Coolbaugh said. "The first thing is you really have to get into Adam's mind and try to figure out what goes through his mind in some of those at-bats. Maybe there's some things that he's doing from the mental side that can help slow him down.
"It could be a possibility of maybe even just eliminating a certain pitch that he tries to hit. But one thing about Adam is he is aggressive, he's able to hit some pitches that probably other guys can't just because he has that aggressiveness and he's a super talent, and that's why a lot of times his numbers are what they are.
"You really don't want to take away anything that makes him comfortable. Just try to maybe eliminate and take away some anxiety sometimes so you can eliminate some of those bad at-bats and keep the consistency going, because if we can do that, maybe there's a few more walks that get thrown in there."
Jones struck in the third inning. With a man on base, Jones took a 95 mph fastball out to left to tie the game 3-3. Jones also singled in the contest. He finished 2 for 5, with one run scored and two RBI.
Jones is just 5 of 42 in the playoffs for a meager .119 average.
"I just think that what I do in the regular season, I think I need to cut back a little bit more in the postseason," he told CSNBaltimore.com. "I think it intensifies when the postseason comes on, the strike zone is smaller. Every pitch is that more of importance. And you've got to lock in better. It's the same game; it's just the focus has to be stronger."
One problem is that the studs in the Kansas City bullpen don't allow home runs. Jones was 6 for 27 against Wade Davis and Kelvin Herrera combined in the regular season. Neither yielded a tater all year.
Jones first struck in the third inning. With a man on, Jones sent a 95 mph fastball out to right center for a two-run shot. He did it again in the fifth. Jones stepped to the plate with a man on again, and managed to take an 83 mph slider out to left for another two-run shot. He finished 2 for 4, with two runs scored and four RBI.
Jones' consecutive start streak ends at 141 games, as he has started every game since last season's regular season finale against the Red Sox.
Jones led off the sixth inning with a solo shot off Hector Noesi. He took a 94 mph fastball out to right for the shot. Jones also singled twice during the contest. He finished 3 for 4, with two runs scored and one RBI.
With the game tied at two in the eighth inning, Jones stepped to the plate with two men on. He responded in a big way, homering on the first pitch of the at-bat. Jones clobbered an 83 mph slider out to left center for the three-run shot. He finished 1 for 4, with one run and three RBI.
Jones had just four hits in 34 at-bats heading into the game, but he still owns a fine .284/.313/.478 stat line and is on pace for his second straight 100-RBI season.
Jones delivered his blast in the first inning, and the Orioles were able to tack on two more runs in the fourth before hanging on for the win. He has hit home runs in back-to-back games and now owns a .294/.321/.498 line with 21 home runs and 67 RBI in 432 at-bats.
Jones ended a six-game streak without a home run Tuesday, as he clubbed a solo shot in the first inning to get the Orioles on the board. It was his only contribution to the winning effort, as he finished 1 for 5 with one strikeout.
Jones has seen his average fall to .292 during a month of July that has seen him hit just .244/.286/.456. He still has five home runs and 16 RBI during the month, bringing his season total to 20 and 65, respectively.
Providing all the offense for the winning side, Jones knocked his first home run in the top of the first inning to give his team a quick lead. He then broke a 2-2 tie with a sixth-inning blast that ended the scoring on the night. Jones has homered three times in the last three games, and he owns a .300/.325/.500 line with 19 home runs, 63 RBI and six stolen bases in 400 at-bats.
Cespedes' three first-round homers earned him a swingoff with Athletics teammate Josh Donaldson, and after Donaldson managed just one home run three swings, the outfielder delivered homers in each of his first two swings to advance. He defeated Orioles outfielder Adam Jones 9-3 in the second round after Jones managed four first-round shots, then took down Jose Bautista, who had a competition-best 10 homers in the first round, by a score of 7-4 in the AL Final. Twins home-field competitor Brian Dozier hit just two home runs in the first round, failing to advance.
Frazier played the role of underdog throughout, hitting just two home runs as the first batter in the competition but managing to slide into a swing-off with Rockies first baseman Justin Morneau after Dodgers outfielder Yasiel Puig failed to hit a single home run before recording seven outs. Frazier went first in the swing-off and managed one home run in three swings but advanced after Morneau went 0 for 3. The Reds third baseman took down Rockies shortstop Troy Tulowitzki 6-2 after Tulowitzki hit four first-round homers. Marlins outfielder Giancarlo Stanton earned a bye after hitting six massive blasts in the first round, but he bowed out to Frazier 1-0 after a long break.
Cespedes joined Ken Griffey as the only players to win back-to-back Home Run Derby titles. He'll likely enter the 2015 competition as the favorite to make it three in a row.
Jones has increased his home run production in each of the last four years and has posted 30-homer seasons in 2012 and 2013. Selected to his third straight All-Star Game this season, Jones has hit 16 home runs in 367 at-bats before the break.
Jones is on pace for career highs in batting average and slugging percentage, and his .838 OPS ranks just below his career-best of .839, the website said.
RHP Yu Darvish, RangersRHP Max Scherzer, TigersRHP Felix Hernandez, MarinersRHP Masahiro Tanaka, YankeesLHP Jon Lester, Red SoxLHP David Price, RaysLHP Scott Kazmir, AthleticsLHP Mark Buehrle, Blue JaysLHP Sean Doolittle, AthleticsRHP Greg Holland, RoyalsLHP Glen Perkins, TwinsRHP Dellin Betances, Yankees
Jones extended his hitting streak to six games by going 2 for 3, and he accounted for three runs in the game. He went deep for a solo home run to start the scoring in the fifth, and then added a sacrifice fly to drive in another run in the sixth. Jones capped off the day with a seventh-inning RBI single.
Jones is now hitting .307/.330/.510 with 16 home runs and 52 RBI. He has also scored 50 runs in 84 games, to rank ninth in the American League.
Jones has turned on the offense in June, hitting .348 with nine home runs during the month. The explosion of offense gives the outfielder a .305/.329/.500 line with 15 home runs and 49 RBI in 338 at-bats.
Jones got the scoring started with a home run to right center field in the first inning, and he was on base in the ninth when Chris Davis launched a three-run walkoff blast to give the Orioles a win. Jones has three straight multihit performances to give him a .296/.320/.489 line with 14 home runs and 47 RBI in 311 at-bats.
Jones blasted off on a solo job in the first inning, walked and scored in the fourth and added a single. His big game broke a 0-for-13 slide and strengthened his stat line to .291/.314/.480.
Jones has homered in back-to-back games, and he has racked up six home runs since the beginning of June after entering the month with just six home runs to his credit. He has hit .298/.315/.488 with 12 home runs and 43 RBI in 285 at-bats.
Jones has managed at least one hit in each of his six games this month, going 12 for 27 with three home runs and nine RBIs during that stretch. His fourth multi-hit performance in five games gives him a .300/.314/.470 line with nine home runs and 38 RBI in 253 at-bats.
Jones made outs in his first two at-bats, but got things going after that. He belted a double in the fifth inning, driving in two. In his next at-bat, he hit a solo home run off Tanner Scheppers. Jones finished 2 for 4, with two runs scored and three RBI. He's hitting .299/.314/.463 over 244 at-bats.
Jones scored the first run of the game with his fourth-inning home run, and he would also score his team's second run in the sixth inning. It was Jones' first homer since May 18 and his first four-hit performance since April 20. He has hit .294/.309/.447 with seven home runs and 31 RBI in 235 at-bats.
Jones, who has 21 hits in 44 at-bats against lefties this season, scored three runs in the victory.
Jones hit a three-run homer off reliever Aaron Crow in the ninth. He added a single in the third inning and finished 2 for 5 with a run scored and three RBI in an 8-6 defeat. He has recorded a hit in all but two of his first 18 May games. He is hitting .292 (21 for 71) with four homers and nine RBI this month.
Jones' first-inning home run gave his team a 1-0 lead that they took all the way into the ninth inning, when closer Tommy Hunter melted down for the blown save. Jones has hit four of his five home runs during his current eight-game hitting streak. He owns a .270/.285/.421 line with 21 RBI in 152 at-bats.
Jones hit massive shots in the second and fourth innings, with both topping 435 feet. He owns a .260/.278/.394 with three home runs and 17 RBI, but his big performance Wednesday may be the slumpbuster he needed.
Jones drove in three runs in the game, with a double in the seventh inning and a single to bring in two in the eighth. He finished the game 2 for 5 with one run scored, raising his batting line to .291/.319/.407.
The Orioles got most of their runs during a six-run third inning. Nick Markakis, Nelson Cruz, Chris Davis and Jonathan Schoop all had RBI singles. Adam Jones got an RBI on a fielder's choice and Steve Clevenger had an RBI double.
The Orioles' other run came in the eighth inning on Ryan Flaherty's RBI single. The Orioles hit .303 (10 for 33) and had four walks during the win.
Jones had singles in the first, third and sixth innings, respectively, before ripping a double in the ninth inning. He finished 4 for 5 with a run scored and an RBI. He is hitting .313 with one home run and eight RBI in 67 at-bats.
Jones will serve as the designated hitter.
Jones connected for his first home run in the first inning -- a two-run homer off Ivan Nova to extend the lead to 3-0. Jones would add his second double later in the game, as he finished 2 for 4 with two runs and one walk.
Jones is batting .286 (8 for 28) with four RBI through eight games.
Trout's second straight Silver Slugger award came after he hit .323/.432/.557 with 27 home runs, 97 RBI and 33 stolen bases in 589 at-bats. Hunter's second career Silver Slugger award came after he hit .304/.334/.465 with 17 home runs and 84 RBI in 606 at-bats. Jones' first career Silver Slugger award came after he hit .285/.318/.493 with 33 home runs, 108 RBI and 14 stolen bases in 653 at-bats.
Gordon won the award in left, his third Gold Glove. The Orioles' Jones won his third Gold Glove in center and Victorino his fourth in right, his first with the Red Sox.
The American League nominees are:
Catcher: Joe Mauer, Minnesota; Salvador Perez, Kansas City; Matt Wieters, Baltimore
First Base: Chris Davis, Baltimore; Eric Hosmer, Kansas City; James Loney, Tampa Bay
Second Base: Robinson Cano, New York, Dustin Pedroia, Boston, Ben Zobrist, Tampa Bay
Third Base: Adrian Beltre, Texas; Evan Longoria, Tampa Bay; Manny Machado, Baltimore
Shortstop: Alcides Escobar, Kansas City; Yunel Escobar, Tampa Bay; J.J. Hardy, Baltimore
Left Field: Yoenis Cespedes, Oakland; Andy Dirks, Detroit; Alex Gordon, Kansas City
Center Field: Lorenzo Cain, Kansas City; Jacoby Ellsbury, Boston; Adam Jones, Baltimore
Right Field: Nick Markakis, Baltimore; Josh Reddick, Oakland; Shane Victorino, Boston
Pitcher: Mark Buehrle, Toronto; R.A. Dickey, Toronto; Doug Fister, Detroit
Should Jones be done for the season, he will finish with a .285 batting average, 33 home runs, 108 RBI and 14 stolen bases.
Nate McLouth was listed as the team's starting center fielder, taking Jones' place.
Jones, who has started 153 games in center field and four at designated hitter, was replaced in center field by Jason Pridie for the Orioles' game against the Blue Jays. If Jones does not appear in Wednesday's contest, it will break a steak of 322 consecutive games played.
Jones' home run was one of two hits for the Orioles, and his home run was his first in 10 games. Jones has hit .289/.322/.502 with 32 home runs, 103 RBI and 13 stolen bases in 619 at-bats.
Jones is just two home runs from matching his season high of 32, set last year. His .295 batting average and .511 slugging percentage would be career highs if he maintains them through the remainder of the year. Jones has turned in a .295/.326/.511 line with 30 home runs, 100 RBI and 12 stolen bases in 569 at-bats.
Baltimore had taken a 4-3 lead with a three-run homer earlier in the seventh inning when Jones stepped to the plate with two on. Jones unloaded on his 28th home run of the season to give the game its final score of 7-3.
The center fielder finished the game 2 for 5 with a single and the three RBI. He now has 98 runs batted in on the year for the Orioles to go with a .295 average. Jones has gone 5 for 16 over his last four games.
Jones doubled in a run in the eighth inning and launched a three-run shot in the ninth innings to extend the lead. He finished 2 for 5 with two runs scored and four RBI. He is hitting .304/.332/.519 with 24 homers and 85 RBI in 480 at-bats.
The cleanup hitter singled up the middle to drive in the first run for Baltimore in the first inning. He added his 23rd home run of the season for a solo shot in the fourth.
Jones, who later scored the Orioles' third run, finished 4 for 4 with two RBI and two runs scored. He's batting .298 and is on a five-game hitting streak. He has extra-base hits in four straight.
The Gold Glove winner went 1 for 3 and had one of four doubles for the AL.
Jones is batting .296 with 19 home runs and 67 RBI and is 6 for 9 in his last three games. The Orioles open the second half Friday at Texas.
Jones finished 2 for 3 in the game with a walk and three runs scored. He added an RBI single in the first inning to drive in two runs in the game. Jones is batting .296 on the first half of the season with 67 RBI.
The 27-year-old went 6 for 10 in the final series against the Blue Jays with a homer in each game, seven runs scored and six RBI.
Jones, who now has 17 home runs on the season, went 3 for 4 with a double. He finished just a triple shy of the cycle as he scored three times in the win. Jones is batting .292 with 64 RBI.
The center fielder is not having his best month, but he is coming on strong, as he's now gone 13 for 44 (.295) over 11 games with two homers and seven RBI.
The Orioles won the game 2-1 as Jim Johnson closed out the Yankees in the bottom of the ninth. Jones went 1 for 4 in the game and the HR was his 16th. He is batting .289 and was just named an American League All-Star starter.
Jones was slumping but has gone 3 for 8 in his last two games and is starting to break loose again for the O's.
The AL Starters -- selected by fans -- features Joe Mauer, Chris Davis, Robinson Cano, J.J. Hardy, Miguel Cabrera, Mike Trout, Adam Jones, Jose Bautista and David Ortiz.The pitching staff is made up of Max Scherzer, Felix Hernandez, Clay Buchholz, Brett Cecil, Justin Verlander, Justin Masterson, Chris Sale, Mariano Rivera, Bartolo Colon, Yu Darvish, Hisashi Iwakuma, Jesse Crain, Joe Nathan and Glen Perkins.12 position players were selected as reserves: Prince Fielder, Torii Hunter, Jhonny Peralta, Dustin Pedroia, Nelson Cruz, Ben Zobrist, Jason Castro, Edwin Encarnacion, Alex Gordon, Jason Kipnis, Manny Machado and Salvador Perez.Joaquin Benoit, Steve Delabar, David Robertson, Tanner Scheppers and Koji Uehara are the five players included in the Final Vote.
More than that, Jones' power has taken a hit. He doesn't have one extra-base hit over that eight-game span with just two RBI and five strikeouts. He's only scored three runs and is 0 for 1 in stolen base attempts.
Jones is batting .297 overall this season with 15 home runs, 22 doubles, 55 runs scored and 56 RBI.
He extended his hitting streak to eight games and has hit safely in 11 of his last 12 games. Jones is batting .320 (16 for 50) with four doubles, four home runs and 16 RBI in his last 12 games.
He finished 1 for 4 with his 15th home run.
Jones has hit in nine of his last 10 games with three doubles, four homers and 13 RBI over that span. He's driven in 51 runs on the year with a .301 batting average. Jones is in the top 10 in the American League in homers, RBI, slugging and runs scored.
Jones opened the game with an RBI groundout in the first inning before adding a solo home run in the sixth. He finished the game 1 for 4 with two RBI and two runs scored.
Jones ranks in the top 10 in the American League in home runs (14) and RBI (45), while coming in second with 47 runs scored.
Jones hit a 457-foot homer to left-center field in the fourth inning off starter Matt Moore. It was his 12th homer and first of June. He was 3 for 5 with two RBI and is batting .306.
If voting ended today, Jones would be starting in the All-Star Game for the American League. He has 40 RBI, nine stolen bases, 19 doubles and 44 runs scored and has played excellent defense in center field.
Jones also has seven strikeouts, which included a season-high four strikeouts Sunday against the Tigers.
Before his skid, Jones hit .311 (37 for 119) with a .546 slugging percentage, .890 OPS, seven doubles, seven home runs and 17 RBI in 28 May games.
Jones hit home runs in four straight games last week but was 1 for 12 in a three-game stretch entering Friday. He has hit .319/.347/.534 in 232 at-bats.
The home run was his ninth at Rogers Centre since the start of the 2012 season, the most by an opposing player. Jones has hit safely in 16-straight games against Toronto, dating to Aug. 24, 2012. His four-game homer streak is the longest of his career. He's had three-game streaks three times.
Jones, who finished 3 for 5 with his 16th double, is batting .316 (31 for 98) with six doubles, six home runs and 14 RBI in 23 May games.
Jones has hit .317/.349/.510 in 202 at-bats.
Jones did not miss any time as a result of the injury. He is hitting .315/.348/.497 and has played in all 47 of Baltimore's games.
Jones is batting .300 (24 for 80) with two home runs, five doubles, seven stolen bases, 10 RBI and 11 runs in 19 May games.
The Orioles and Jones still believe the injury is not serious, they just want to keep him off his feet as much as possible. Manager Buck Showalter wanted to err on the safe side with the Orioles headed to the turf in Toronto in the upcoming series.
Jones added he's fine to play center field, but he appreciates manager Buck Showalter being careful with him. Jones is batting .289 (22 for 76) with two home runs, four doubles and 10 RBI in 18 May games.
Jones stole second base late in Monday's game and came up a bit lame following hitting the bag. He's healthy enough to hit, but the Orioles want him to take a game off his feet.
Jones, batting .319 on the year, enters Tuesday's game with a five-game hitting streak in which he's gone 8 for 23 (.348) with a homer and five RBI. He also has three stolen bases over that stretch.
Jones will still hit cleanup for the Orioles. He'll face Phil Hughes. Chris Dickerson will start for Jones in center. Jones is hitting .319/.354/.492 in 185 at-bats.
The center fielder drove in a run in the fourth inning with an RBI single to left to tie the game at one run apiece. He stole two bases and now has seven on the year. He's batting .322.
Jones has hit in four straight games and has gone 7 for 18 over that stretch with a homer and five RBI. He's up to six homers and 30 RBI on the year.
Jones has hit .318/.355/.500 in 186 plate appearances.
"I'm trying to really stay off the down-and-away pitch," Jones said. "If I could find a way to lay off that pitch more, I'd find myself on first base a lot more often and score more runs. Trying to lay off it, but if I can't, shoot it in that hole (on the right side). Second baseman will probably be playing me up the middle more. I'm just trying to make contact."
Per FanGraphs.com, Jones is swinging at 39.6 percent of pitches outside of the strike zone, which is just above his career mark (39.5 percent) and below his rate the last two seasons (40.4 percent), so the numbers don't back up his claim just yet. But Jones insists he's making an effort to become a better hitter.
"I'm just trying to get on base anyway I can," Jones said. "Take the hits over there if they want to pitch me away. You see what Miguel Cabrera does. He takes what they give him and I'm learning that. Obviously I'm not on the same caliber as he is but my growth can be. I'm still growing as a player."
"I missed the ball," Jones said, per MLB.com. "Doesn't really matter if you misjudge it, you missed it. So, you make an excuse no one wants to listen to it. I missed it and cost my team. That inning turned out to be a pretty big inning."
The Gold Glove outfielder's defense has come under fire recently, despite having committed just one error in 63 chances.
"There's some things that I'm not doing well in the field and it's frustrating," he said. "But you think it's going to stop me from playing hard and stop the way I'm playing, it's not. Just got to pretty much clean it up."
Jones' stretch of safely reaching base also ended at 15 games as his walk rate continues to sputter. With his strikeout to end the game, he has now whiffed 24 times against just two walks in 26 games.
Jones doubled and singled twice. He has a six-game hitting streak and is hitting .359/.379/.554.
The Gold Glove center fielder went 1 for 4 in the game with an RBI double that just missed going out for a home run, but said afterwards he was bored on the bench between at-bats, MASNSports.com reports Sunday.
"I'm bored. I don't know what to do," Jones said. "I understand it is to get my legs a little rest but I'm bothering him (Buck Showalter) and all the coaches. But hey, we have players and depth on this team to where myself, CD (Chris Davis),(Matt) Wieters, anyone can have a day off because we have the depth."
Jones has dropped his average to .352 as he's gone 3 for 16 over his last four games with a homer, double, three RBI and seven strikeouts. He appears to be swinging a little more liberally than he was earlier in the year when he started out on fire.
The All-Star entered Sunday in the top 10 in the American League in average, RBI (14) and runs scored (15) for the Orioles and was back in center field in the finale versus L.A.
Jones gave the Orioles their only runs of the game when he homered off starter Matt Moore in the third inning, snapping Moore's scoreless streak to begin the year. Jones hit a two-run shot that was changed from a double after the umpires reviewed the play. The ball bounced off the back railing behind the center field wall and the correct call was made.
Unfortunately for Jones, he attempted to catch a James Loney hit in the fourth inning and the ball scooted under his glove and rolled almost to the wall as two runs scored and the Rays went up 4-2. Jones was not charged with an error, but easily could have been.
He finished 1 for 4 and is batting .390 with two homers and 13 RBI over his first 14 games.
"I feel good at the plate. I'm just not trying to turn and burn," he said. "I'm just trying to make contact and hit the ball hard and live with the results. That's been my concept since the beginning of the season."
Baltimore totaled 34 runs in its first five games and just four in its last two contests. Adam Jones and Chris Davis have been leading the charge, combining to go 10 for 20 (.500) with RISP.
Jones is batting .500 (15 for 30) with eight RBI and 10 runs through seven games. He's hit safely in all seven of the Orioles' games and has more multi-hit games (five) than single-hit games (two).
"You know me, I always give an effort," he said. "I was kind of frustrated that, I guess, the last one, a checked swing I hit it back to the pitcher. I put my head down when I saw it going back to him. I hear that he dropped it and I looked up. It's all my fault on that at-bat, that effort level. I give max effort and I didn't give it in that instant. Trust me, those are the kind of things that frustrate me. I could strike out four times and not be bothered by it, but the lack of effort on my behalf, that frustrates me."
Outside of his lack of hustle Sunday, Jones is off to a fast start in 2013. He's batting .538 (14 for 26) with four doubles, seven RBI and nine runs in six games. He also has one stolen base.
Jones, who entered the game batting .321 with a double, three home runs and three RBI in his career against Hellickson, went 1 for 4 on the night in the 8-7 loss to Tampa Bay.
He scored a run in the game and is now batting .444 on the year after going 3 for 5 in the opener with two doubles and two RBI. Jones has scored three runs in his first two games.
Jones is batting .321 (9 for 28) with one double, three home runs and three RBI in his career against Hellickson. Including Tuesday's season opener, Jones is batting .262 with 10 home runs, 15 doubles and 33 RBI in 80 career games against Tampa Bay.
Jones, who scored twice during the 7-4 win, led the Orioles with three hits in the game, including two doubles, out of the third spot in the lineup. He finished 3 for 5 with two RBI as his seventh-inning double plated two and gave the Orioles back the lead, 4-3.
The 27-year-old Jones struggled in the Grapefruit League this season batting just .226 with two homers and five RBI.
Much of the improvement in Jones' stats simply came from playing all 162 games, whereas he had previously never played in more than 151 games in a season. He also benefited from having Matt Wieters behind him in the batting order instead of Vladimir Guerrero, and from an increased line drive rate. Jones will continue to get the benefit of hitting in front of Wieters, but line drive rates are subject to a lot of random fluctuation.
This is not to say that Jones is due for a dropoff, but as a 27-year-old entering his prime, Fantasy owners might look for him to take another leap. Skill-wise, though, Jones hasn't changed much over the last four years. There's nothing wrong with Jones as he is, which is good, because that just might be what Fantasy owners get for this year and the next few years to come.
Jones, batting third in the order, homered in his second and third at-bats in the game and finished 3-for-4 with three RBI and two runs scored. That improved his spring batting average to just .182. His two homers hit Monday represent his only two in the Grapefruit League thus far and he also three of the four runs he's driven in.
The 27-year-old Jones hit .287 with a career-high 32 homers and 82 RBI last season and has improved with each successive season in the majors.


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TV's double vision, when 1 screen isn't enough
What's more, they are heard, and often heeded, by the presenters of those programs.
Maybe it's as simple as a cable-news show that, bannering its hashtag, invites Twitter users to weigh in on the story being reported, with their tweets unscrolling on the TV screen.
Maybe it's as complex as teams of data miners curating what the Twitterati are saying about a TV show, from moment to moment as the show unfolds, for sharp-eyed analysis by network bosses and ad buyers.
And the tweets add up. At 10:35 p.m. Eastern time on a Sunday night last August, MTV's "Video Music Awards" sparked a record-breaking 8,868 tweets-per-second as Beyonce finished singing and rubbed her belly, signaling she was pregnant.
Now what would Karen Scott have made of that?
I'm talking about the heroine of a short-lived 1960s NBC sitcom. "Karen" centered on a "modern teenage girl" who "by the light of television" (according to the theme song, performed by the Beach Boys) "can even write a book report."
Today, of course, that report would be composed on a laptop or a tablet that emits its own light, while the multitasking Karen keeps her eye on her TV and tweets on her phone.
Maybe circa-2012 Karen would be following her favorite show on Twitter or Facebook.
Maybe she would log onto a specialty app for a show she likes, such as TBS' "Conan," whose Team Coco tablet app presents its own Twitter feed interspersed with other content unfurling in synch with the show as it airs.
Maybe she goes to a website like TweetTV, where she can find a full array of TV shows, with their respective Twitter feeds, to choose from.
Maybe she checks into sites for TV shows on Viggle or ACTV8.me, whose users can redeem the points they earn for items like movie tickets or gift cards.
And maybe she would make time for websites like Yap.tv, SocialGuide, GetGlue, Miso and BuddyTV.
In March, the Hollywood Reporter published results of a poll that found that nine out of 10 people view social networking sites as a new form of entertainment, while more than half of the respondents said social media sites are important tastemakers in determining not only what to watch, but also what to buy.
The poll, conducted by market research firm Penn Schoen Berland, surveyed 750 social network users ages 13 to 49. It found that half of the respondents post on social networking sites while watching TV to feel connected to others who might be watching.
Welcome to the era not of the bygone Must-See TV, but of Must-Tweet TV. The second screen has become its own media destination.
And its own TV-navigating tool. Peel is one of several sites that provide an on-screen customized remote control and a search mechanism for keeping track of favorite TV shows. Meanwhile, its social platform allows the user to find and follow friends to see what they are recommending.
As one special feature, Peel unveiled an "American Idol" app earlier this season, which, among other things, lets users post "Cheers" and "Boos" for each performer as a real-time interaction, which results in a leaderboard summarizing how the Peel community sizes up the performances.


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We all love sending instant messages to our friends and family, not only because it is handy and fast but also because it can be fun.
Most instant messaging apps have lots of features that make the communication better, allowing users to send images or videos, as well as voice calls. Also, the best part is that you don't even have to pay for all of this. That sounds great, right?
You are not limited to only one im app, so if you want to try more symilar apps we listed some options below ( including guides ):
But with so many apps, sometimes we all find it difficult to decide which one is the best for us. Of course, choosing an instant messaging app does not depend only on us and our needs and desire; it also depends on what our friends are using, even if sometimes we might not find this too good, as they might not agree with us.
However, there are some apps that appear to be loved by the majority of people, such as Hike Messenger which became very popular among people all over the world, or SnapChat one of the most famous instant messaging platforms.
However, today we are going to talk about Kik Messenger, an app similar to the other two mentioned and as well-known as them.
Most people already heard about this app, and they even have it installed on their mobile, or they are using Kik on computer. I know that this might seem impossible, since Kik does not have an official version for Windows not for Mac, but it is very possible if you download first Bluestacks, an app that will bring the Android experience to your PC.
So, is it worth to download Kik on PC? I am not going to give you an answer, but I am going to tell you what is good and what is bad about it. If you still need more details about this awesome app and its compatibility with your desktop setup continue reading on nativespiritfoundation.
The good thing is that Kik offers and impressive chat experience across multiple platforms. You have to possibility to ass graphics, photos and memes to your chats, and that makes it more fun.
However, there's also a bad part, since Kik does not allow you to send your location in chat messages and also you cannot turn off the Read status in messages.
However, this is a great app that will conquer you once you begin using it. So, you better download it and check it out!


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Like it happened to Jet Airways' after the Jet-Etihad deal, will Air India's entry into Star Alliance, make it a 'feeder' in the ultra-long international market once a new government takes over in New Delhi?
An analysis by a leading international aviation consultancy firm, CAPA, claims that the new government that takes over the country's reins after May 16, is unlikely to let the national treasury continue to fund the flag carrier that shows few signs of ever becoming profitable.
And this could possibly result in Air India not going for expansion on long-haul routes, but be content to act as 'feeder' to some of the powerful Star Alliance members like Lufthansa, United Airlines and Air Canada. CAPA report reveals that Air India's induction would help Lufthansa, the most powerful member of the alliance, in preventing its declining competitiveness before the rising might of the Gulf airlines'.
'Feeder' here means a commuter carrier that brings in travellers (feeds) from destinations not served by large carriers to hub airports for further journey on national and international airlines.
For its passengers, it would mean, Air India slowing down on its expansion plans on long haul flights, and they having to halt at any one of the hubs before catching a partner flight for the journey ahead.
"There will be some inconvenience for the passengers. But alliances come with many benefits too. Many non-profitable routes and even those routes that are dull during off-season, can turn profitable with such an arrangement," said aviation expert Vipul Saxena.
CAPA report points out that if the new government refuses to write off Air India's huge debt, that would suit Star Alliance, which already has on its board strong members like Lufthansa, Air Canada and United Airlines, which are unlikely to encourage Air India's aspiration for increased access to their key markets in the UK and North America, which has huge Indian diaspora. US aviation regulator FAA recently downgrading country's aviation on issues of safety too has limited Air India's expansion in the US.
"Here is a chance for a meeting of minds (with its foreign partners). If Air India, despite its recent 787-based revival, were to restrict itself more to domestic and regional operations, its losses could be reduced dramatically," CAPA report says.
Air India, which has a debt of over Rs 40,000 crore, has regularly been put on life supporting system by the government, infusing tens of thousands of crores. The report further adds: "Air India's value lies in feeding the Star hubs, not operating long haul itself."
However, certain aviation experts disagree. "I don't fully agree with their conclusions that Air India will be reduced to becoming a feeder airline," said aviation expert and blogger Devesh Agarwal. "I see Air India tweaking its network to better leverage its traditionally strong routes like London and Chicago, and partnering with Air Canada, United, and Lufthansa via Frankfurt to offer connections to more destinations in North America, especially in the west coast, like Vancouver and San Francisco."
An Air India spokesperson declined any comment.
Etihad airways, which bought equity in Jet airways, is expected to use the latter as a feeder airline to its hub in Abu Dhabi for carrying passenger further on long haul routes.


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A device and method which operates as an artificial labyrinth to eliminate sensory mismatch between the natural labyrinth/vestibular system and the vision system of an individual. The present invention provides an alternative means for the user to determine the true orientation of his body with respect to the surrounding environment. The method can be effected by means of a device which senses true body orientation and displays corresponding visual orientation cues that the brain can use to confirm other visual position information. The display can be projected into space in front of the user, directly onto the user's retina, or effected by pictorial scene averaging. The device is particularly useful in the rehabilitation treatment of persons suffering from vestibular nervous system defect or damage, and in providing relief to those suffering from the symptoms of nausea and/or vertigo which are often experienced as a result of the aforementioned sensory mismatch.
1. A system for providing visual orientation information to a user, comprising:
orientation sensing means for providing positional change information of said user with respect to a baseline position of said user;
data acquisition means to acquire said positional change information of said user and said baseline position of said user from said orientation sensing means;
data processing means for determination of a relative positional change of said user from said baseline position of said user, based upon said positional change information of said user and said baseline position of said user acquired by said data acquisition means; and
display means for presenting to said user a set of visual cues indicative of said relative positional change of said user.
2. The system of claim 1 wherein said orientation sensing means comprises an accelerometer.
3. The system of claim 1 wherein said orientation sensing means comprises a magnetostrictive sensor.
4. The system of claim 1 wherein said orientation sensing means comprises a gyroscope.
5. The system of claim 1 wherein said orientation sensing means is worn by said user on a band affixed to the head of said user.
6. The system of claim 1 wherein said display means is affixed to a pair of eye glasses.
7. The system of claim 1 wherein said display means comprises a liquid crystal display.
8. The system of claim 1 wherein said display means comprises a retinal scanner.
9. The system of claim 1 wherein said display means comprises the projection of a series of averaged video images acquired by a camera.
10. The system of claim 1 wherein said display means comprises a holographic projection.
11. The system of claim 1 wherein said visual cues comprise relative pitch orientation information.
12. The system of claim 1 wherein said visual cues comprises roll orientation information.
13. The system of claim 1 wherein said visual cues comprise relative yaw orientation information.
14. The system of claim 1 wherein said visual cues comprise relative elevation orientation information.
15. A method of providing physical orientation information to a user comprising the following steps:
a. first sensing a baseline position of said user;
b. second sensing a positional change of sad user from said baseline position of said user;
c. computing a relative amount of said positional change of said user from said baseline position of said user; and
d. presenting said relative amount of said positional change of said user as a series of visual cues to said user.
16. The system of claim 15 wherein said sensing steps comprise the use of an accelerometer.
17. The method of claim 15 wherein said sensing steps comprise the use of a magnetostrictive sensor.
18. The method of claim 15 wherein said sensing steps comprise the use of a gyroscope.
19. The method of claim 15 wherein said presenting step comprises providing non-orientation information to said user.
20. The method of claim 15 wherein said second sensing step comprises sensing a change in said user's pitch.
21. The method of claim 15 wherein said second sensing step comprises sensing a change in said user's roll.
22. The method of claim 15 wherein said second sensing step comprises sensing a change in said user's yaw.
23. The method of claim 15 wherein said second sensing step comprises sensing a change in said user's elevation.
24. The system of claim 15 wherein said presenting step comprises provision of a holographic image to said user.
25. The method of claim 15 wherein said presenting step comprises provision of a retinal scanning image to said user.
26. The method of claim 15 wherein said second sensing step is repeated a multiplicity of times, and wherein said computing step comprises the determination of an average of a set of positional change data acquired during the repetition of said second sensing steps.
27. The method of claim 26 wherein said repetition of said second sensing step occurs at a rate of more than 10 times per second.
28. The method of claim 15 wherein said presenting step occurs at a rate of more than 6 times per second.
29. The method of claim 15 further including the continuous repetition of steps b, c and d.
30. A system for providing visual orientation information to a user, comprising:
orientation sensing means for providing positional change information of an object moving with said user with respect to a baseline position of said user;
data acquisition means to acquire said positional change information of said object moving with said user and said baseline position of said user from said orientation sensing means;
data processing means for determination of a relative positional change of said object moving with said user from said baseline position of said user, based upon said positional change information of said object moving with said user and said baseline position of said user acquired by said data acquisition means; and
display means for presenting to said user a set of visual cues indicative of said relative positional change of said object moving with user.
This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application Nos. 60/011,895, filed on Feb. 15, 1996, and 60/017,753, filed on May 15, 1996.
1. Field of the Invention
The present invention relates generally to a device for the relief of nausea, disorientation, and other disabling symptoms resulting from sensory mismatch and, more particularly, to an artificial labyrinth which provides the user an alternate means of determining his actual, physical orientation with respect to the surrounding environment.
2. Background of the Invention
Motion sickness does not discriminate. It can attack anyone, at any time. It is always disabling, to a greater or lesser degree, depending on the person. It is known from research that certain types of sensory mismatch are the leading cause of motion sickness. This mismatch occurs when the brain perceives that the body is in motion (through signals originating in the labyrinth and transmitted to the brain by the vestibular nerve system), but the motion sensed does not match what the eye can see and verify. The reverse is also true (i.e. sensory mismatch may also occur when the eye perceives motion, but the labyrinth does not provide confirming signals to the brain). There are many causes of this mismatch, including: time delay between the arrival of labyrinth motion signals and visual confirmation signals within the brain, or conflict between these signals when they do manage to arrive at the same time. In addition, the labyrinth's signals may be corrupted by various physical defects, conflict with each other within the labyrinth, or be missing entirely, as is the case when a person has the vestibular system disconnected (via operation, accident, or birth defect). All causes of this type of sensory mismatch are not precisely known, but it is well-established that such conditions can drastically affect an individual's quality of life and performance of everyday tasks.
One example of sensory mismatch is vertigo, which is the sensation the brain encounters when it perceives that the body is in motion (when in fact there is no motion), and it attempts to correct bodily posture to counteract the perceived physical sensation. Another example of sensory mismatch occurs when the eye perceives motion, but no motion actually occurs. This can be described as a type of "virtual reality" sickness, which is normally experienced users of video games or flight simulators. The reverse situation, when the body feels motion but there are no visual cues, is a much more common occurrence. Examples include: passengers in an airplane with no access to a window, sailors in a submarine, and ship passengers that cannot see the horizon. Such persons sense actual changes in body position, but have nothing in the environment which allows their eye to confirm the motion they perceive.
It is not clear why some persons can tolerate sensory mismatch better than others. However, at some point, almost everyone is affected when the mismatch is severe. This is especially true for those who, through accident or genetic deficiency, suffer from vestibular system disfunction. That is, even though the person is sitting or standing in a stationary fashion, they have the constant feeling of motion and, as a result, sickness. Simply bending over or slight movement of any kind may result in total disability in these cases. In the United States alone, over 30,000 vestibular section operations occur each year to help those suffering from Meniere's disease (i.e. vertigo induced by a distended labyrinth) get some relief, which drugs alone can't provide. However, rehabilitation after such an operation may require months of therapy.
Several attempts have been made to alleviate the symptoms of motion sickness (e.g., drugs which numb the nervous system and give some relief from nausea), but no successful product exists to eliminate the cause of motion sickness. Even if the resulting nausea is somewhat lessened, the sensory mismatch still exists, and may cause the affected person to make improper or dangerous decisions when accomplishing everyday tasks, such as driving an automobile.
Thus, there exists a long-felt and widespread need to provide alternative environmental orientation information (i.e. "visual cues") which can be used by the brain to replace erroneous or missing sensation signals normally provided by the natural labyrinth, and which can be readily confirmed by the natural vision system. The method and apparatus of the present invention, discussed in greater detail below, clearly satisfies this need.
The present invention provides an artificial labyrinth which augments or replaces the natural labyrinth. It functions by sending visual cue orientation information directly to the eye for transmission to the brain. After some training by the user, the brain will learn to compare the artificial labyrinth orientation cue information with the visual perception of the user, and to disregard misleading natural labyrinth signals.
The artificial labyrinth can exist in the form of a wearable accessory usable by any number of people; it can be integrated into glasses already worn for vision correction, or can be used with an independently wearable frame or other apparatus which enables a portable system to be devised. It is specifically designed to take advantage of miniature gyroscope, accelerometer, magnetostrictive sensor, or other attitudinal sensing technology to produce a device and method which give the user constant visual cues as to his orientation with respect to the surrounding environment. Such cues, when substituted by the brain for erroneous signals sent by a dysfunctional labyrinth or vestibular system, serve to eliminate sensory mismatch and the resulting sensations of nausea or vertigo.
Visual cues can be supplied in a number of ways, including: a series of lines projected into the space in front of the user by way of a display or projection mechanism such as the commercially-available "Private-Eye™"; direct projection of visual cues onto the retina; laser holography; or some type of averaged video display which records the image in front of the user, and re-displays a series of averaged video frames to the user's eye in order to give the appearance of a stable platform--much like the technology some commercial movie cameras use to stabilize an image while the camera is being moved during operation.
In the presently preferred embodiment, by way of example and not necessarily by way of limitation, the artificial labyrinth makes use of a triaxial accelerometerto produce visual cues indicating the user's actual pitch and roll motion. The accelerometer is mounted on the user's head and the resulting electrical output from each axis (which reflects movement) is sampled every 10 msec. After 12 sample cycles occur (120 msec), the accelerometer signal data is averaged for each axis, compared with the user's baseline position (i.e. at rest), and translated into visual cues for display. The visual display is updated several times a second (at least every 150 msec) so that reference orientation cues are timely delivered to the eye for transmission to the brain. It has been determined through experimentation that such feedback eliminates sensory mismatch between the labyrinth/vestibular system and the visual system, so as to give relief to many who suffer from vertigo or motion sickness.
The basic system can also be enhanced by the inclusion of magnetic sensors, which allow the addition of visual cues to indicate the yaw of the user. Thus, users can receive visual verification of rotational changes which occur to the left or right about a vertical axis which extends from the head to the toes. Elevational changes can likewise be communicated to the user by way of visual cues, as well as other useful, but non-orientation related (e.g. mapping or message) information.
The artificial labyrinth satisfies a long existing need for a system capable of quickly, accurately, and inexpensively eliminating the sensory mismatch which is induced by environmental conditions or labyrinth/vestibular system disfunction. The above and other advantages of this invention will become apparent from the following more detailed description, in conjunction with the accompanying drawings and illustrative embodiments.
FIG. 1 is a perspective view of the present invention as worn by a user.
FIG. 2 is a stylized example of a visual cue display.
FIGS. 3(a)-(d) are various representations of the visual cue display as it reflects the true position of the user with respect to his environment.
FIGS. 4(a)-(h) are alternative representations of the visual cue display as it reflects the true position of the user with respect to his environment.
FIG. 5 is a simplified block diagram of an alternative embodiment of the invention.
FIG. 6 is a simplified block diagram of an alternative embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 7 is a block diagram of an alternative embodiment of the present invention, realized as an operational system.
FIG. 8 is a summary flow chart illustration of the processing steps for implementing the method of the present invention.
FIG. 9 is a block diagram of an alternative embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 10 is a stylized representation of the visual cue display with user messaging capability.
FIG. 11 is a simplified block diagram of an alternative embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 12 is a perspective view of an alternative embodiment of the present invention indicating a user's perception of a projected visual cue image.
FIG. 1 illustrates a perspective view of one embodiment of the present invention, as it may be worn by a user. Glasses frames (40) encompass lenses (90), which provide a display to the user having fixed orientation marks (200) and movable visual cue orientation marks (100).
Turning now to FIG. 2, orientation markings (100 and 200) are shown as a stylized representation of one possible display perceived by the user of the instant invention. Moveable visual cue marks (100) are displayed in relation to a field of fixed orientation marks (200). Moveable visual cue marks (100) will change their position with respect to fixed orientation marks (200) whenever the position of frame (45) changes with respect to the true horizon. If orientation sensors (10) are mounted to a frame (45), which is in turn affixed to the user's head, the display presented to the user will correspond roughly to that shown in FIG. 2 when the user's head is positioned so as to be straight and level, Turning now to FIG. 3, it can be seen how the position of moveable visual cue marks (100) will change with respect to fixed orientation marks (200) as the user's head position changes. FIGS. 3(a)-(d) show how the display changes when the user's head moves up, down, left, and right, respectively. Such changes assume that all orientation sensors are affixed to the user's head (e.g., by using glasses frame (40)).
The changing orientation display gives the user visual cues as to the difference between his head position and that of his environment. Thus, users experiencing nausea and/or vertigo because they lack knowledge as to their physical position within the environment now have access to a simple means of determining their true relative orientation.
FIG. 4 illustrates several additional examples of visual cues which can occur in the present invention. It should be noted that such visual cues are by no means limited to those shown in the accompanying figures. That is, instead of various combinations of dashed or dotted lines, and the geometric shapes shown, other forms of visual cuing are contemplated. For example, the intensity or color of the display can be varied over its entire surface, or in specified areas, to indicate various conditions of orientation. Colors may be bright or muted, intensities may also be brightened or dimmed, and geometric figures or indicators can change shape, color, or intensity to indicate various orientations to a specific user. In addition, display visual cues can be tailored to each individual user, so that the user need only adapt to those visual cues he needs to properly navigate in his own environment and avoid the disabling affects of vertigo and motion sickness.
FIG. 4(a) represents a display providing two additional elements contemplated by the present invention. Vertical yaw bars (500) are used to indicate rotational position changes about an axis which extends from the head to the toes of the user. Elevational bubble (510) is used to indicate changes in altitude of the user's body from an initial baseline position. As can be seen in FIG. 4(b), the user has rotated toward his left about the central axis of his body. In FIG. 4(c), the user has rotated toward his right. In FIG. 4(d), the user has been elevated to some distance above an initial baseline rest position, and in FIG. 4(e), the user has been moved to a lower elevation than he initially encountered at the baseline rest position.
The present invention also anticipates a combination of visual cues from any number of orientation sensors, all operating at the same time. That is, a particular user may require roll (rotational movement about an axis which extends from the front to the back of the user), pitch (rotation about an axis which extends from the left to the right of the user), yaw (rotational movement which occurs about an axis which extends from the head to the toes of the user), and elevation (change in altitude above or below a baseline rest position) change information simultaneously. FIG. 4(f) illustrates such a combination of visual cues. In this case, the user has pitched backward and rolled to the left. Altitude and yaw remain unchanged. Note that elevation bubble (510) is now located at the side of the display. The present invention contemplates location of various visual cues at any place on the display which is convenient to the user, and most effective at transmission of orientation information to the brain for processing. FIG. 4(g) indicates that the user has pitched forward and rolled to the right. Elevation and yaw remain unchanged. Finally, FIG. 4(h) indicates that the user has rolled to the right, yawed to the right, and been elevated upwardly. Pitch has not changed. All orientation marks in FIG. 4(h) (both moving and stationary) have been relegated to the periphery (75) of the display (50). This allows use of the display for unobstructed views of objects in front of the user, while still providing needed visual orientation cues.
Turning now to FIG. 5, a simplified block diagram of the preferred embodiment of the present invention can be seen. Frame (45) may consist of glasses frame (40), as shown in FIG. 1, or any other convenient means to mount the required components of the present invention, so as to make them easily transportable by the user. Orientation sensors (10) are preferably mounted to frame (45). Orientation sensors (10) can be any type among several commonly available, including gyroscopic, accelerometer, or magnetostrictive. Orientation sensors (10) are energized by power source (30), which can be batteries or some other portable mechanism (e.g., solar). Power source (30) also supplies power to microprocessor (20) and other elements, such as a display (50) or projector (60), which are also preferably mounted to frame (45). The output of orientation sensors (10) is sent to microprocessor (20) and translated by means of a program into display commands for display (50) or projector (60) mounted on frame (45). If display (50) is used, it must be transparent so as to interpose only the orientation markings (100 and 200) as shown on lenses (90) in FIG. I between the eyes of the user and his environment. The display (50) mechanism can be affixed to corrective lenses or incorporated into clear glass or other transparent material for use with frame (45).
An alternative means of presenting orientation markings (100 and 200) for perception by the user is to make use of a projector (60) to replace the function of display (50). Projector (60) is preferably mounted onto frame (45) in such a way as to project out into space in front of the user, by laser beam holographic means or other means, a display similar to that shown in FIG. 1, to include orientation markings (100 and 200). Commands to projector (60) are derived from signals produced by microprocessor (20) in response to input provided by orientation sensors (10). The projected display should preferably appear to be located several feet in front of the user.
An alternative embodiment of the invention is shown in FIG. 6. In this case, no visual cue marks are displayed. The means to give the user visual clues as to orientation is now effected by producing an averaged semi-real-time display of what normally would be viewed through the lenses (90) of glasses frame (40) (of FIG. 1). In this case, a microprocessor (20) is powered by power source (30) which also provides power to a camera (70) (or series of cameras) and a projector (60). Camera (70) and projector (60) are preferably both mounted on glasses frame (40). In this embodiment of the instant invention, camera (70) can be used to produce a recorded image of the scene in front of the user. The recorded image is sent to microprocessor (20) and averaged with other images produced by camera (70) so as to produce what is perceived by the user to be a slowly changing display of the visual environment. This changing display is projected onto lenses (90) for actual perception by the user via projector (60). Thus, the user does not perceive the actual scene as recorded by camera (70), but only the averaged image as displayed by projector (60) on the inner surface of lenses (90).
Turning now to FIG. 7, an operational realization of the preferred embodiment using conventional components can be seen. Power source (30) is used to supply microprocessor (20) and, indirectly, display (50) and orientation sensors (10). Microprocessor (20) is composed of a personal computer central processor unit (300) or equivalent, connected to conventional random access memory(310), and non-volatile memory (320).
Projection display (390) is directly connected to display controller (380), which in turn is interfaced to a serial port on the central processor (300). A program is resident in the non-volatile memory (320), and used to direct the display controller (380), so as to project a series of visual cues onto projection display (390). Random access memory (310) is used as a scratchpad memory to store sensor input information and make calculations to update the visual cues sent to projection display (390) via display controller (380). The combination of analog-to-digital converter (330), analog multiplexer (340), and sample-and-hold (350) are integrated into a single circuit card made by Crossbow (Part No. CXLDK RS232, digital interface card), or equivalent. Orientation sensors (10) may take the form of a triaxial accelerometer(360), also made by Crossbow (Part No. CXL04M3) and three magnetostrictive sensors (Honeywell Part No. HMC1001).
Turning now to FIG. 8, a summary flow chart sequence of events necessary to effect the method of the present invention, given the specific implementation as shown in FIG. 7, can be seen. In step (400), the system is powered-up and microprocessor (300) is used to initialize display control (380) and scratch pad random access memory (310). In addition, the data acquisition sub-system consisting of analog-to-digital converter (330), analog multiplexer (340), and the sample-and-hold (350) are reset and prepared to accept data from accelerometer sensors (360) and magnetic sensors (370) in step (420).
Accelerometer sensors (360) are responsive to the Earth's gravitational field, which is relatively constant in magnitude and direction. The amount of angular tilt or acceleration experienced by each of accelerometer sensors (360) is passed on to sample-and-hold (350) in the form of a voltage, which is proportional to the change between the baseline (i.e. rest) position, and any newly measured position. Likewise, magnetic sensors (370) are responsive to changes in the Earth's magnetic field. Given a constant current input, the resistance of magnetic sensors (370) will change in proportion to changes in magnetic field strength. Thus, magnetic sensors (370) also provide a voltage indicative of positional change (from a baseline) to sample-and-hold (350).
To obtain a baseline (resting or initial reference)position measurement, accelerometer sensors (360) and magnetic sensors (370) are placed on a stable, non-moving surface, and the data acquisition sub-system consisting of analog-to-digital convertor (330), analog multiplexer (340), and the sample-and-hold (350) are calibrated by subjecting the system to test voltage inputs over a specific range (e.g. 0.0 to 5.0 volts), and obtaining a range of expected conversion values (i.e. conversion slope) in step (430). In step (440), the system is programmed to take about 100 samples from each sensor. These samples are averaged for each sensor, and recorded as the initial baseline (i.e. "at rest") position in step (450).
Now the microprocessor (300) enters a program loop which begins at step (460) and requires taking orientation sensors (10) data every 10 msec to produce a data set consisting of 12 samples of each sensor (e.g., 4 sensors�12 samples=48 samples in the set, if orientation sensors (10) consist of a triaxial accelerometer and a single magnetostrictive sensor), every 120 msec. In step (470), microprocessor (300) calculates the average position derived from the sample data for each sensor.
Finally, in step (480), the average measured position for each sensor is compared to the baseline position and the new, updated position sensed by the orientation sensors (10) is presented to the user via projection display (390) after the appropriate commands have been sent to display controller (380).
In this particular implementation of the preferred embodiment, the microprocessor (300) will look to see if any key on the computer keyboard (not shown) has been pressed in step (490). If it has, then the microprocessor (300) will exit from the data acquisition and positional update loop if the key pressed was an "ESCAPE" in step (500). If the key pressed was not an "ESCAPE", then microprocessor (300) will loop to step (460) and begin to acquire a new multi-sample data set based on any changes in orientation as sensed by accelerometer sensors (360) and magnetostrictive sensors (370).
If the microprocessor (300) has sensed an "ESCAPE" key input in step (500), then projection display (390) is cleared of all visual cues and the system is prevented from acquiring any more position-dependent data or displaying changes in that data in step (520), and the program is halted.
The spirit of the present invention anticipates the partition of the data acquisition, data processing, and visual cue display functions of the system into separate units, or combined into a single monolithic unit. Implementation as separate units can be seen in FIG. 7, although other methods of partition are possible. For example, the data acquisition and display functions can be combined into a single head-mounted unit, and the data processing system can be remotely located to reduce weight and/or power requirements. In FIG. 9, the data acquisition function of the present invention is implemented by using a power source (30) to supply the data acquisition sub-system (consisting of analog-to-digital convertor (330), analog multiplexer (340), and the sample-and-hold (350)), data transmitter (600), and various orientation sensors (10), consisting of accelerometer sensors (360) and magnetostrictive sensors (370). In this system, positional input data is provided by the orientation sensors (10), acquired by the data acquisition sub-system, and provided to the data transmitter (600) for transmission to the data processing sub-system.
The data processing sub-system consists of a data transceiver (620) which sends the acquired data from orientation sensors (10) to a finite state machine (630) for processing. A power source (30) is also required at this juncture to energize data transceiver (620) and finite state machine (630). After processing of the positional sample data is completed, finite state machine (630) sends the resulting display controller information, along with any other data which may be desired (e.g., GPS, altitude, etc.), to the data transceiver (620). At this point, all data is received by data receiver (610) and passed on to display controller (380) for presentation to the user at projection display (390). Again, a power source (30) is used to supply the requirements of the data receiver (610), display controller (380), and projection display (390). It should be noted that all data communications which occur between data transmitter (600), data receiver (610), and data transceiver (620) can be effected by either radio frequency means, infrared means, or other wireless methods of communication.
Many other possible implementations will suggest themselves to those skilled in the art. For example, this invention may be used in either civilian or military applications. Referring now to FIGS. 10, 11, and 12, an enhanced version of the invention can be seen. In this case, orientation information is projected out into space, several feet in front of the wearer, and provided at the periphery of the wearer's vision area (75). A miniaturized radio data receiver (e.g., cellular phone with modem, or similar device) (190) can be added to the basic system shown in FIG. 2, so that microprocessor (20) may also receive data which is unrelated to the user's position within his environment (See FIG. 10). Circuitry similar to that used in modern cordless or cellular phones, or digital messaging pagers, can also be used to directly interface with the microprocessor for wireless data transfer (20). In a military application, such information as target speed (80) and altitude (90) can be displayed at the top of the wearer's vision area display, and real-time messages which give an indication to the wearer of target proximity could be displayed in a "movie marquee" fashion at the bottom of the display (100). The center of the display (110) can be left open, as shown in FIG. 10, for display of any type of information which can be received over the radio/data link. The use of such display messaging in the military version of this invention obviates the need for verbal communications in many circumstances. This can be a real advantage in the battlefield or other situations where verbal or sonic communication is undesirable. The visual cue orientation display may also be superimposed onto a virtual reality display field (e.g. video games, flight simulators, etc.) or presented in conjunction with night-vision display applications. In naval or marine applications, the entire system worn by the user may have to be constructed in a water resistant or waterproof fashion. In this case, the central display area (110) might be used to display fleet position information (mapping) to the wearer.
It is not necessary in all circumstances to provide visual cue information to each eye of the wearer. In low cost civilian applications, for example, only a single display element may be required. See FIG. 12. Various methods of mounting the display are possible. For example, a band (120) can be used to mount the unit on the head of the wearer with a simple extendable arm (130) to place the display (50) in front of the wearer's eye (e.g., similar to the inspection mirror worn by doctors, or some jeweler's loupes). Physically, display (50) is preferably about one square inch in size. However, the user will actually perceive a display image (140) which is much larger, and projected out into the space in front of him. The invention for civilian use should be very light weight, inexpensive and rugged. If a radio data receiver is used with the visual cue display, such information as news, weather updates, or other information of interest can be displayed in an updated fashion on the peripheral edges of the display.
Turning now to FIGS. 11 and 12, it can be seen that other embodiments of the invention may include a three-axis accelerometer (150) in place of the orientation sensors (10) shown in FIG. 2. Of course, three separate single-axis accelerometers can also be used to replace orientation sensors (10). The use of accelerometers in place of a gyroscope will allow cost savings in some instances, and increase the ruggedness of the device.
In more sophisticated versions of this device, the display can be adjusted by the wearer to compensate for vision deficiency (i.e., diopter adjustment, similar to that used in binoculars) so that the projected information display appears to be in perfect focus at a distance from the user. This adjustment can be programmed into the microprocessor (20) by sensing a user-controlled input (160), or mechanically adjusted by moving the display (50) closer to or farther away from the user's eye.
Display (50) can be manufactured so that it is capable of displaying different elements in color. This will allow the wearer to immediately differentiate background information from priority or emergency information (e.g., emergency information can be displayed in red, while all other information is displayed in black and/or yellow). Display (50) can also be manufactured with a filter component to protect the eye of the wearer from damage by intense sources of electromagnetic energy. This may include simple polarizing filters or some type of material whose optical transmission properties can be adjusted to protect the eyesight of the wearer, depending on the optical sensing properties of the display material, or of an additional electromagnetic sensor (170) connected to microprocessor (20). Finally, retinal scanning, such as that described in "A Retinal Display for Virtual Environment Applications" (Proceedings of Society for Information display, 1993 International Symposium, Digest of Technical Papers, Vol. XXIV, pg. 827) or holographic projection, can be used to present appropriate visual cues to the user, with additional communications or message data if desired. Such technology would obviate the need for fixed display means for providing visual cues to the user.
An alternative embodiment of the present invention may also include GPS (global positioning satellite) information processing capability. That is, messaging display (50) can present location information to the user, or a map display which is automatically updated as the user moves along terrain. GPS information processing capability is also useful to underwater divers. In this case, the diver's underwater position updates could be displayed in real-time as GPS receiver (180) obtains locational updates from satellites overhead and ports the resulting data to microprocessor (20).
In order for the implementation of the present invention to be effective, it is important that the visual cue display information be processed and analyzed in a timely manner. This means that the display update for orientation visual cues (i.e. "physical sensation" information) should not lead or lag visual verification by a time period of greater than 150 msec, which means that orientation sensors (10) must normally be mounted on the head of the user. Head mounting of orientation sensors (10) will speed up the acquisition of any movement sensation resulting from changes in user physical position. If the orientation sensors (10) are mounted at some other location, it may be more convenient for the user, but may not be as effective at elimination of sensory mismatch as would direct mounting to the user's head. However, there may be instances in which the user desires to monitor the motion of an object moving with his own body, in which case the orientation sensors (10) must be mounted directly to that object, such as a car or airplane in which the user travels. In the described implementation of the embodiment depicted by FIG. 7, it was determined that a sensor sampling period of 120 msec, coupled with calculation of position change and display update commands of less than 30 msec, was sufficient to eliminate sensory mismatch (i.e. the display was continuously updated with new positional change information every 150 msec, or less). By supplying the user's brain with true conditions of motion within the required time period, sensory mismatch is eliminated and the user is relieved of vertigo and/or nausea that may result. This invention is also useful to those who have undergone the procedure of vestibular nerve section. Usually it takes months of rehabilitation to overcome the effects of such a procedure, but with the use of the present invention it is believed that rehabilitation can occur much more rapidly and successfully. Use of the artificial labyrinth will also lead to reductions in rehabilitation cost, since patients can get back to work more quickly, and drugs used to relieve the symptoms of sensory mismatch are avoided.
Although the invention has been described with reference to a specific embodiment, this description is not meant to be construed in a limiting sense. On the contrary, even though only specific devices have been shown to be mounted to the glasses frames, all elements of the instant invention can be mounted on these frames, given sufficient miniaturization. Also, various alternative stylized displays can be used, other than that shown in FIG. 3. As long as the user is given visual orientation cues which reflect motion such as pitch, roll, yaw, or elevation of his body with respect to the environment, the spirit of this invention is effected. This includes the use of mechanical orientation sensing devices placed within the user's normal viewing field to give appropriate visual cues. Other various modifications of the enclosed embodiments will become apparent to those skilled in the art upon reference to the description of the invention. It is, therefore, contemplated that the following claims will cover such modifications, alternatives, and equivalents that fall within the true spirit of the scope of the invention.
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