A conveying device for transport of workpiece carriers from and to one or more machining stations, has a stationary conveyor track having at least one guide rail, with at least one stopping device provided for stopping the workpiece carrier. This stopping device is formed as a pivot lever that is integrated in the at least one guide rail and pivotable for stopping the workpiece carrier from a neutral position in which it is aligned with the guide rail, to a position pivoted outwardly out of the guide rail. A method of stopping a workpiece carrier is also provided.

The invention relates to a conveying device for the transport of workpiece carriers in accordance with the description herein.
As a rule, workpiece carriers are conveyed in a conveying device from and to one or more machining stations. Such conveying devices comprise a stationary conveyor track having at least one guide rail for the workpiece carriers and typically also comprise a corresponding drive for moving the workpiece carriers onward. Instead of such a drive, however, an incline can also be provided so that the workpiece carriers are moved onward due to gravity. To be able to stop corresponding workpiece carriers, stopping devices are provided in the conveyor track. On a corresponding stopping of the workpiece carriers, the workpieces arranged thereon can be removed and supplied to the machining station, that is, for example, to a processing machine.
Such conveying devices are already known. So-called stopping fingers that are extendably supported in the guide rail are known as the stopping device there. A corresponding stopping finger is in the respect to be provided for stopping a workpiece carrier.
A plurality of workpiece carriers having workpieces to be correspondingly machined are, however, supplied in front of machining stations so that a row of workpiece carriers accumulates before a machining station. This can be seen as a kind of buffer that is caused by the fact that the machining stations have different clock times. As soon as a workpiece carrier is to be stopped directly in front of the machining station, the stop function is subjected to the demand to stop an individual workpiece carrier.
If, however, workpiece carriers from the accumulated row of workpiece carriers should be detected in a targeted manner and should then be supplied to the working station, for example, a singularization must be carried out. Such apparatus for singularizing workpiece carriers are also already known. Two stopping fingers have to be provided here, with the workpiece carriers being able to be stopped and/or backed up by an intervention of the respective stopping finger.
The known stopping fingers are typically designed such that they engage into the guide rail on a corresponding extension movement and stop the workpiece carriers transported there as an abutment. In this respect, the stopping fingers have to cover comparatively long extension distances. For safety reasons, they have to be completely extended out of the guide rail on returning into the starting position to achieve a sufficient spacing from the workpiece carrier. The stopping fingers can typically be lowered in the base of the guide rail. Due to the long travel paths, a comparatively slow response time can be realized to stop the workpiece carrier.


A process for assisting the function of a heart disposed within a body, and comprising an outer wall, comprising the steps of measuring at least one parameter that is indicative of the function of the heart, applying a compressive force to a portion of the outer wall of the heart, and applying an expansive force to the portion of the outer wall of the heart. The process is preferably performed with an apparatus comprising a cup-shaped shell having an exterior wall, an interior wall, an apex, and an upper edge; a liner having an outer surface and an inner surface, an upper edge joined to said interior wall of the cup-shaped shell, and a lower edge joined of the interior wall of the cup-shaped shell, thereby forming a cavity between the outer surface thereof and the interior wall of the shell; and a drive fluid cyclically interposed within the cavity, the drive fluid applying a uniform force on a portion of the outer wall of the heart.

Traditional medical and surgical treatment of patients with failing pump function of the heart is limited to blood-contacting devices which are technically difficult to install and result in complications related to such blood contact as well as technical aspects of device installation. Inadequate cardiac output remains a cause of millions of deaths annually in the United States. Mechanical devices are proving to be a practical therapy for some forms of sub-acute and chronic low cardiac output. However, all currently available devices require too much time to implant to be of value in acute resuscitation situations, resulting in loss of life before adequate circulatory support can be provided. Furthermore, other non-blood contacting devices similar to the current invention provide inadequate augmentation of cardiac function. Mechanical cardiac assistance devices generally operate by providing blood pumping support to the circulation to assist the failing heart.
A number of mechanical techniques for assisting heart function by compressing its outer epicardial surface have been described and studied. These methods have focused on improving cardiac performance by assisting the systolic (positive pumping) function of the heart. Such techniques have been described as "direct cardiac compression" (DCC). DCC methods have been investigated only in the laboratory setting, and there are no uses of such devices in human subjects known to the applicants. Investigations regarding DCC have focused primarily on left ventricular (LV) systolic and diastolic performance. Examples of DCC techniques include, but are not limited to, cardiomyoplasty (the technique of wrapping skeletal muscle around the heart and artificially stimulating it), the Cardio support system (Cardio Technologies, Inc., Pinebrook, N.J.) and the "Heart Booster" (Abiomed, Inc., Danvers, Mass.). Cumulative results from laboratory investigations using these devices have all resulted in similar findings. Specifically, DCC has been shown to enhance left ventricular (LV) pump function without any apparent change in native LV oxygen consumption requirements; thereby, DCC has been shown to improve LV pump function without increasing myocardial oxygen consumption and/or requiring extra work from the heart.
DCC devices have been shown to only benefit hearts with substantial degrees of LV failure. Specifically, DCC techniques only substantially improve the systolic function of hearts in moderate to severe heart failure. In addition, the benefits of DCC techniques are greater when applied to the relatively dilated or enlarged LV. Therefore the relative degree of assistance provided by DCC improves as heart failure worsens and the heart enlarges or dilates from such failure. DCC techniques clearly have a negative effect on diastolic function (both RV and LV diastolic function). This is exhibited by reductions in diastolic volume that, in part, explains DCC's inability to effectively augment the heart without at least moderate degrees of failure. This also explains DCC's efficacy being limited to sufficient degrees of LV size and/or dilatation, with significant dependence on preload, and/or ventricular filling pressures. Thus, DCC requires an "adequate" degree of heart disease and/or heart failure to benefit the heart's function. In addition, DCC devices have negative effects on the dynamics of diastolic relaxation and, in effect, reduce the rate of diastolic pressure decay (negative dP/dt max), increasing the time required for ventricular relaxation. This better explains why DCC techniques require substantial degrees of LV and RV loading (i.e. increased left and right atrial pressure or "preload") to be effective, as such increases serve to augment ventricular filling. This latter point is particularly true with smaller heart size and/or less ventricular distension.
The critical drawbacks to DCC methods are multi-factorial and are, in part, summarized in the following discussion. First, and foremost, these techniques do not provide any means to augment diastolic function of the heart necessary to overcome their inherent drawback of "effectively" increasing ventricular stiffness. This is illustrated by the leftward shifts in the end-diastolic pressure-volume relationship (EDPVR) during DCC application. This effect on the EDPVR is seen with DCC devices in either the assist or non-assist mode. Clearly, RV diastolic function is impaired to a far greater degree by DCC due to the nature both the RV wall and intra-cavity pressures. Furthermore, studies of DCC devices have all overlooked the relevant and dependent impact these techniques have on right ventricular dynamics, septal motion and overall cardiac_function. Because the right ventricle is responsible for providing the "priming" blood flow to the left ventricle, compromising right ventricular function has a necessary secondary and negative impact on left ventricular pumping function when these load-dependent devices are utilized. Furthermore, the ventricular septum lies between the right and left ventricle and is directly affected by the relevant forces placed on both the RV and LV. Another related and fundamental drawback to DCC devices is their inability to continuously monitor ventricular wall motion and chamber dynamics that are intuitively critical to optimizing the assist provided by such mechanical actions on the right and left ventricular chambers which behave in an complex, inter-related fashion. Finally, studies regarding DCC methods have failed to adequately examine the effects of these devices on myocardial integrity.
The Direct Mechanical Ventricular Assist device (hereinafter abbreviated as DMVA) is an example of one type of mechanical cardiac assistance device. In general, a DMVA system comprises two primary elements: (a) a Cup having dynamic characteristics and material construction that keep the device's actuating liner membrane or diaphragm closely conformed to the exterior surface (or epicardium) of the heart throughout systolic and diastolic actuation, and (b) a Drive system and control system combination that cyclically applies hydraulic pressure to a compression and expansion liner membrane or membranes located on the interior surfaces of the Cup in a manner that augments the normal pressure and volume variations of the heart during systolic and diastolic actuation. The cyclic action of the device cyclically pushes and pulls on the left and right ventricles of the heart.
By providing this cyclic motion at the appropriate frequency and amplitude, the weakened, failing, fibrillating, or asystolic heart is driven to pump blood in a manner which approximates blood flow generated by a normally functioning heart. Pushing inwardly on the exterior walls of the heart compresses the left and right ventricles into systolic configuration(s), thereby improving pump function. As a result, blood is expelled from the ventricles into the circulation. Immediately following each systolic actuation, the second phase of the cycle applies negative pressure to the liner membrane to return the ventricular chambers to a diastolic configuration by pulling on the outer walls of the heart. This is termed diastolic actuation and allows the ventricular chambers to refill with blood for the next compression.
In the preferred embodiment of the present invention, the Cup is installed on the heart typically by using apical vacuum assistance, i.e. vacuum applied to the apex of the Cup. Such a preferred embodiment enables a non-traumatic and technically simple means of cardiac attachment of the Cup device in the patient and facilitates diastolic actuation. To install the Cup, the heart is exposed by a chest incision., The Cup is positioned over the apex of the heart in a position such that the apex of the heart is partially inserted therein. A vacuum is applied to the apex of the Cup, thereby pulling the heart and the Cup together, such that the apices of the Cup and the heart, and the inner wall of the Cup and the epicardial surface of the heart become substantially attached. Connections are then completed for any additional sensing or operational devices (typically integrated into a single interface cable) if the particular Cup embodiment comprises such devices. This procedure can be accomplished in minutes, and it is easy to teach to individuals with minimal surgical expertise.
Effective DMVA requires that the Cup and Drive system satisfy multiple and complex performance requirements. Preferred embodiments of the Cup of the present invention satisfy these critical performance requirements in a manner that is superior to prior art DMVA devices.
Heretofore, a number of patents and publications have disclosed Direct Mechanical Ventricular Assist devices and other cardiac assistance devices, the relevant portions of which may be briefly summarized as follows:
U.S. Pat. No. 2,826,193 to Vineberg discloses a Ventricular Assist device that is held to the heart by a flexible draw-string. Vineberg uses a mechanical pump to supply systolic pressure to the heart to assist the heart's pumping action.
U.S. Pat. No. 3,034,501 to Hewson discloses a similar Ventricular Assist device, comprised of silastic, which permits varying pressures to be exerted on various portions of the heart.
U.S. Pat. No. 3,053,249 to Smith discloses a Ventricular Assist device capable of delivering systolic pressure to a heart. The Smith device utilizes adhesive straps to attach the device to the heart.
U.S. Pat. No. 3,233,607 to Bolie illustrates a Direct Assist device that varies the level of systolic pressure depending on the changes of blood flow occasioned by exercise. The Bolie device claims to be fully implantable. U.S. Pat. No. 3,449,767 to Bolie discloses a system for controlling the pressure delivered to the balloons that control the DMVA unit.
U.S. Pat. No. 3,279,464 to Kline teaches a method of manufacture of a Ventricular Assist device. Kline's device provides only systolic pressure to the heart.
U.S. Pat. No. 3,371,662 to Heid discloses a Ventricular Assist device in the form of a cuff. The cuff may be implanted with defibrillating electrodes.
U.S. Pat. No. 3,376,863 to Kolobow illustrates a Ventricular Assist device that delivers systolic pressure to the heart. The Kolobow device possesses an expandable collar about the periphery of the device's opening. The heart may be sealed within the device by expanding the collar.
U.S. Pat. No. 3,455,298 of Anstadt discloses a Direct Mechanical Ventricular Assist device capable of delivering both systolic and diastolic pressures. The diastolic action is achieved by use of a vacuum. A second vacuum source functions to hold the device to the heart. Anstadt further defines the geometry of the device in U.S. Pat. No. 5,199,804. The geometry of the invention is described so as to accommodate hearts of various sizes as well as prevent the heart from being expelled from the device during the systolic expansion of the bladders.
U.S. Pat. No. 3,478,737 of Rassman discloses a Ventricular Assist device in the form of a cuff.
U.S. Pat. No. 3,513,836 to Sausee discloses a Ventricular Assist device that delivers systolic pressure to the heart by a multiplicity of bladders. Increasing the pressure in selected bladders may preferentially pressure selected portions of the heart.
U.S. Pat. No. 3,587,567 to Schiff discloses a Direct Mechanical Ventricular Assist device that is capable of delivering both systolic and diastolic pressures to a heart. The device may further comprise electrodes that permit defibrillation of the heart. The device is held to the heart by a mild vacuum pressure, which also supplies the diastolic action.
U.S. Pat. No. 3,613,672 to Schiff discloses a cup with a flexible outer shell that allows for the insertion of the device through a relatively small surgical incision. The patent also discloses the use of sensors, such as electrocardiogram equipment, in conjunction with the cup. Additional reference may be had to U.S. Pat. Nos. 3,590,815 and 3,674,381 also to Schiff.
U.S. Pat. No. 4,048,990 to Goetz discloses a Ventricular Assist device that delivers both systolic and diastolic pressures to a heart. The outer shell of the Goetz device is inflatable, so as to allow installation with minimal trauma to the patient.
U.S. Pat. No. 4,448,190 to Freeman discloses a Ventricular Assist device that delivers systolic pressure to a heart by means of a strap physically attached to the heart. A similar device is disclosed in U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,383,840 and 5,558,617 to Heilman. The Heilman patent discloses the use of defibrillation devices and materials that promote tissue in-growth to assist in adhering the device to the heart.
U.S. Pat. No. 4,536,893 to Parravicini discloses a Ventricular Assist device in the form of a cuff that applies pressure to selected portions of the heart. The patent also discloses the use of sensors, such as an electrocardiograph, in conjunction with the cuff.
U.S. Pat. No. 4,621,617 to Sharma discloses a Ventricular Assist device wherein the heart is disposed within two sheets of metal. An electromagnetic field draws the sheets together, thus compressing the heart.
U.S. Pat. No. 4,690,134 to Snyders discloses a Ventricular Assist device with a collapsible outer shell. Such a device may be installed with minimal trauma to the patient. Additional reference may be had to U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,169,381 and 5,256,132 also to Snyders.
U.S. Pat. No. 4,979,936 to Stephenson discloses a fully implantable Ventricular Assist device. Stephenson's device comprises a first bladder fluidly connected to a second bladder. The first bladder is disposed within a muscle, while the second bladder is disclosed next to or around the heart. The muscle may then be electrically contracted, thus, forcing fluid out of the first bladder and into the second bladder. The expansion of the second bladder thus compresses the heart.
U.S. Pat. No. 5,273,518 to Lee discloses a fully implantable Ventricular Assist device similar to the muscle powered devices mentioned above. U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,098,442 and 5,496,353 to Grandjean, 5,562,595 to Neisz, 5,658,237, 5,697,884, and 5,697,952 to Francischelli, 5,716,379 to Bourgeois and 5,429,584 to Chiu disclose a similar device. U.S. Pat. No. 5,364,337 to Guiraudon discloses a means for controlling the contraction of the muscle, which in turn, controls the compression of the heart.
U.S. Pat. No. 5,098,369 to Heilman discloses a Ventricular Assist device that is comprised of materials that allow for tissue in-growth, thus adhering the device to the heart. The use of defibrillating electrodes and electrocardiographs are also disclosed.
U.S. Pat. No. 5,131,905 to Grooters discloses a Ventricular Assist device that applies systolic pressure to the heart. The Grooters device is held in position around the heart by a plurality of straps.
U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,385,528, 5,533,958, 5,800,334, and 5,971,911 to Wilk disclose a Direct Mechanical Ventricular Assist device suitable for emergency use. The inflatable device may be quickly installed in an emergency situation through a small incision. U.S. Pat. No. 6,059,750 to Fogarty discloses a similar device.
U.S. Pat. No. 5,713,954 to Rosenberg discloses a Ventricular Assist device in the form of a cuff that provides systolic pressure to a heart. The disclosed cuff is suitable for applying pressure to specified portions of the heart, may be equipped with EKG sensors, and is fully implantable.
U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,738,627 and 5,749,839 to Kovacs disclose a Direct Mechanical Ventricular Assist device that provides both systolic and diastolic pressure to a heart. The disclosed cup adheres to the heart by way of a vacuum, which also provides' diastolic pressure to the heart. The opening of the device is equipped with an inflatable collar. When inflated, the collar provides a seal to assist in establishing the vacuum.
U.S. Pat. No. 6,076,013 to Brennan discloses a cup that senses electrical activity within the heart and provides electrical stimulation to assist the heart in its contractions.
U.S. Pat. No. 6,110,098 to Renirie discloses a method for treatment of fibrillation or arrhythmias through the use of subsonic waves.
U.S. Pat. No. 6,206,820 to Kazi discloses a Ventricular Assist device that compresses only the left ventricle and allows the other cardiac regions to expand in response to the contraction.
U.S. Pat. No. 6,238,334 to Easterbrook discloses a Ventricular Assist device that provides both systolic and diastolic pressure to a heart. Easterbrook discloses the use of a cup to apply a substantially uniform pressure to the heart's surface, which is necessary to avoid bruising of the muscle issue. Through the reduction of transmural pressure, a substantially lower driving pressure may be utilized. This assists to avoid traumatizing heart tissue.
U.S. Pat. No. 6,251,061 to Hastings discloses a Ventricular Assist device that provides systolic pressure to a heart through the use of ferrofluids and magnetic fields.
U.S. Pat. No. 6,432,039 to Wardle discloses a Ventricular Assist device that comprises a multiplicity of independently inflatable chambers that delivery systolic pressure to selected portions of a heart. Wardle also discloses the use of redundant "recoil" inflatable balloons.
U.S. Pat. No. 6,464,655 to Shashinpoor discloses a fully implantable robotic hand for selectively compressing the ventricles of a heart. The robotic hand is programmable via a microprocessor.
U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,328,689 to Gonzalez and 6,485,407 to Alfemess disclose a flexible jacket adapted to be disposed about a lung. By applying expansive and compressive forces, the lung may be assisted.
Optimal DMVA performance requires that the Cup be properly fit on the heart, be adequately sealed against the ventricular epicardium, and that the volume vs. time displacement profile of the Cup liner(s) produces the desired ventricular dynamics to achieve optimal, dynamic systolic and diastolic conformational changes of the ventricular myocardium. The optimum pressure-flow drive mechanics will vary from patient to patient, depending upon such factors as the actual fit of the Cup to the heart, the specific nature of the patient's disease, and the patient's normal cardiac rhythm. These factors make it difficult to pre-operatively define the optimum liner time-displacement profiles or hydraulic drive unit control parameters capable of satisfying every patient's unique DMVA requirements.
It is well known that diseased heart tissue can be very fragile, i.e. such tissue is of lower resistance to shear forces and/or less tensile strength than healthy heart tissue. Thus physicians lacking due caution can easily perforate or injure diseased hearts with their fingers while applying gentle pressure during open heart massage by the high pressure at a finger tip adjacent to a low pressure or pressure void between fingers. This previous example describes an acute or rapidly induced emergency situation. However, the persistent application of forces to the heart can also cause potentially catastrophic damage to the heart by fatiguing and severely bruising the heart muscle and/or abrading the heart surface, which can ultimately prevent the heart from functioning.
Direct mechanical ventricular actuation (DMVA) is a means of providing ventricular actuation to achieve biventricular compression (termed "systolic actuation") and active biventricular dilatation (termed "diastolic actuation"). In one embodiment, DMVA utilizes continuous suction to maintain a seal between the actuating diaphragm and the surface of the heart, which enables the device not only to compress the heart, but also effectively provide diastolic actuation by virtue of the diaphragm maintaining attachment to the epicardial surface during the phase of ventricular actuation. Therefore, DMVA overcomes major drawbacks of DCC devices by augmenting diastolic function. This is essential, given that any such DCC device that encompass the ventricles and applies external forces will have inherently negative impacts on diastolic function. The present invention overcomes this, by enhancing diastolic function as demonstrated by an increased rate of diastolic pressure decay and an associated reduced time constant for active ventricular chamber dilatation ("diastolic actuation").
The general principles of effective ventricular compression and ventricular dilatation can only be delivered in an optimal fashion if the effects on both right and left ventricular function are taken into account and such forces are applied in the appropriate temporal and spatial distribution, which is dictated by the material characteristics and delivery of the appropriate drive mechanics using appropriately fashioned pressure and/or flow dynamic profiles. These drive dynamics and material characteristics of the diaphragm and housing of the device are also critical in achieving the best functional result, with the least cardiac trauma.
The appropriate dynamic fit of the DMVA device and its interaction with the heart throughout the actuating cycle is critical, and mandates that RV/LV dynamics are monitored. In particular, fit of the device in the diastolic mode must allow for adequate expansion of both the LV and RV chambers, with particular attention to the RV due to its lower-pressure, compliant properties. Inadequate size and/or diastolic assist will predominantly compromise RV filling, resulting in diminished RV output, and in turn, reductions in overall cardiac output. In contrast, systolic actuation places emphasis on adequate degrees of LV compression. Adequate LV chamber compression requires attention to regulation of variables including maximum systolic drive volume delivery, maximum systolic pressure, and systolic duration.
More simply stated, adequate LV compression is that degree of compression that results in LV stroke volumes approximately equal to optimal RV stroke volumes. The inter-relationship of these chambers dictates that both RV and LV chambers need to be monitored. Appropriate RV and LV actuation by the DMVA system requires active, real-time measurement of both operational parameters and hemodynamic responses, which are utilized in the DMVA adaptive control algorithms to achieve optimal pump function and other more sophisticated operations such as device weaning and analysis of myocardial recovery.
Functional interactions between the right ventricle and left ventricle under mechanical systolic and diastolic actuation are relatively complex and difficult to describe and/or characterize. These are dynamic interactions that are not necessarily predictable based on pre-measured variables, but rather depend on a broad number of physiologic variables. These interactions are not independent; thus the behavior of one chamber has an impact on the other. Continuous monitoring of these two chambers allows the drive control to utilize an adaptive algorithm to constantly alter DMVA control parameters to achieve optimal cardiac actuation and hemodynamic output. Examples of this include, but are not limited to adjustment of pressure/volume relationships to maintain balanced RV/LV output, control of pressure rise times to avoid herniation of the right ventricle, and reduction of negative drive pressure during diastole based on loss of contact between the DMVA liner and the heart wall.
The variability of a broad range of physiologic states across the patient population will dictate that these and other parameters will require responses that may be somewhat unique to each patient. Thus parametric control that benefits from broad demographic information, from physician input, and from real-time patient response data will result in the best outcome for the individual patient.
Therefore a heart-assist device is needed that does not cause damage to the heart as a result of its mechanical action on the heart. There also exists a need for a sensing and control means to ensure that such a device (1) is properly positioned and/or installed on the heart, (2) adequately seals against the heart, (3) achieves the desired systolic and diastolic action at installation and over the implanted life of such device, (4) operates within desired parameters to achieve optimal cardiovascular support, and (5) detects changes, such as impending device failure, in time to take corrective action.
There is also a need for a process to accomplish the above tasks very quickly, in order to avoid brain death and other organ damage. The inherent ability of the DMVA Cup of the present invention to be installed in a very short period of time with no surgical connection to the cardiovascular system of the patient needed enables the Cup of the present invention to save patients who require acute resuscitation, as well as to minimize the number of failed resuscitations due to improper installation or drive mechanics.
There is also a need for a device that does not contact the blood so that anticoagulation countermeasures are not needed, and so that the potential for infection within the blood is reduced.
It is therefore an object of this invention to provide a Direct Mechanical Ventricular Assist device that does not do damage to the heart as a result of its mechanical action on the heart.
It is a further object of this invention to provide a Direct Mechanical Ventricular Assist device that is technically straightforward to properly install on the heart.
It is an additional object of this invention to provide a Direct Mechanical Ventricular Assist device that may be installed on the heart and rendered functional by a procedure that is accomplished in a few minutes.
It is another object of this invention to provide a Direct Mechanical Ventricular Assist device that adequately seals against the heart, thereby enabling more precise operation of the device.
It is an additional object of this invention to provide a Direct Mechanical Ventricular Assist device that drives the systolic and diastolic action of the heart within precisely defined and controlled parameters.
It is a further object of this invention to provide a Direct Mechanical Ventricular Assist device that provides a healing environment within the body of the patient, including the heart itself.
It is another object of this invention to provide a Direct Mechanical Ventricular Assist device that provides measurements of the systolic and diastolic action of the heart to which it is fitted.
It is a further object of this invention to provide a Direct Mechanical Ventricular Assist device that provides an image of the functioning heart to which it is fitted.
It is a further object of this invention to provide a Direct Mechanical Ventricular Assist device that contains sensors and provides sensory feedback relative to the functioning heart to which it is fitted.
It is another object of this invention to provide a Direct Mechanical Ventricular Assist device that can provide electrical signals to the heart to pace the systolic and diastolic functions thereof.
It is an object of this invention to provide a Direct Mechanical Ventricular Assist device that has no direct contact with circulating blood, thereby reducing the risk for thrombogenic and bleeding complications, decreasing the potential for infection of the blood, and eliminating the need for anticoagulation that has many serious complications, especially in patients with serious cardiovascular disease and recent surgery.
It is another object of this invention to provide electrophysiological support, such as pacing and synchronized defibrillation, that can be integrated with mechanical systolic and diastolic actuation.
It is another object of the present invention to provide a DMVA device that can augment cardiac function without any surgical insult to the heart and/or great vessels.
It is another object of the present invention to provide a DMVA device that can put the heart to rest so that it can heal itself from an acute insult while having an improved flow of oxygenated blood.
It is a further object of the present invention to provide a DMVA device having a detachable liner, which can thus enable the DMVA device to be removed from the patient with no trauma to the heart of the patient.
It is a further object of the present invention to provide a DMVA device having a therapeutic liner or seal, thereby enabling the direct administration of therapeutic agents to the heart of the patient.
It is a further object of the present invention to provide a DMVA device that allows dynamic monitoring of the operation thereof, and the resultant right ventricle and left ventricle actuation, to permit optimization of pump function of the heart.
It is a further object of the present invention to provide a DMVA device comprising a volumetrically regulated fluid drive utilizing drive flow/volume sensors integrated with sensing and analysis of DMVA device/biventricular interactions, thereby enabling optimization of resulting biventricular actuation.
It is a further object of the present invention to provide a DMVA device comprising a pressure regulated drive that regulates DMVA drive mechanics independent of volume, utilizing analysis of drive pressure dynamics integrated with analysis of volume changes with the cup and within the right and left ventricles.

Sensor-equipped and algorithm-controlled direct mechanical ventricular assist device


A robotic orthosis device for assisting users to rotate their wrist with a pair of fabric-based helical actuators and a sleeve or rigid interfaces configured to attach to a user's forearm. Each of the helical actuators includes a cylinder and a pneumatic bladder configured to inflate the cylinder. Each cylinder includes an anisotropic sheet material and a base sheet material running the length of the cylinder. The anisotropic sheet material comprises elastomeric strands that enable the material to stretch in a direction parallel to the orientation of the elastomeric strands, but different than the longitudinal axis of the cylinder. The base sheet material, which is affixed to the anisotropic sheet material, is strain-limiting along the longitudinal axis. When the bladder is pressurized, the expansion of the bladder causes the cylinder to stretch and twist, thus generating a helical force on the user' wrist relative to the elbow.

For people with movement disorders, such as Parkinson disease (PD), dystonia, tremor, and stroke induced hemiparesis, completing activities of daily living (ADLs) poses a significant challenge. Many essential ADLs, e.g., pouring from a pitcher, operating knobs, self-feeding, and opening a door, require substantial forearm pronation and supination (axial rotation of the wrist). Traditional upper limb robotic orthoses, i.e., rigid exoskeletons, can assist in movement, thus offering increased independence. However, rigid robotic structures are often stationary, have kinematic incompatibilities when the robot and human joints are misaligned, and can add substantial inertia with respect to movement of segments of the human body.
Advances in soft robotics are enabling a new generation of lightweight, compliant and wearable robots. Soft robotic approaches may offer many advantages over rigid exoskeletons including lightweight, compliance, portability, and ease of donning/doffing. Nevertheless, little research has been invested into soft wearable robots that assist in forearm supination/pronation. Accordingly, there is a need for wearable robotics for forearm supination/pronation that are both lightweight, easy to affix, and inexpensive.

Robotic forearm orthosis using soft fabric-based helical actuators


A vacuum hose/fluid line combination is provided for use with a vacuum cleaning system which includes a vacuum canister and heated fluid dispensing apparatus. The vacuum hose is devised with identical swivel cuffs at the ends thereof, each being formed with an opening in the cylindrical wall thereof and arranged to rotatably receive a flexible fluid dispensing line rotatably therethrough. The fluid line is retained within the hose and has its respective ends projecting outwardly through the openings for connection at one end to a hand tool, and at the other end to the fluid dispensing apparatus. Once connected, the vacuum hose is freely rotatable between the connection points.

This invention relates generally to cleaning apparatus of the type particularly adapted for cleaning floors, and fabric such as carpeting, draperies, and upholstery by appropriate cleaning tools which incorporate a cleaning fluid sprayer and vacuum nozzle. It more particularly relates to a hose coupling arrangement providing improved operational and handling performance.
In recent years, fluid extraction methods have been utilized for cleaning floors, carpeting, draperies and furniture upholstery, in place of prior conventional shampoo methods which were found to be inefficient with respect to cleaning. In the typical shampoo methods, generally cleaning fluids were applied to the fabric as an initial step and allowed to set for a period of time so as to insure dissolving or dislodging of greases, stains and other forms of foreign particles to be conditioned for removal from the fabric. Later, as a separate step in the shampoo process, a vacuum cleaner was employed to remove the hopefully dislodged foreign particles.
During such initial shampoo applying step, a procedure was normally administered to scrub the fabric in order to assist in the dissolving and dislodging of the foreign matter. Such scrubbing action was not only potentially harmful to the fabrics themselves, but the scrubbing techniques could result in the driving of the dissolved foreign ingredients and particles deeper into the pile of the fabric, thereby preventing their desired complete removal during the later administered vacuuming step.
The fluid extraction method generally was a great improvement over the typical shampoo methods, not only because the more complete cleaning which was administered in a single step, but because simultaneous application of a vacuum with the cleaning detergent prevented dissolved and dislodged particles from being driven deeper into the fabric material. Various improvements to the fluid extraction methods have been proposed and sold in the marketplace as the technology progressed. In the early stages of fluid extraction apparatus, a pressurized fluid line was applied to a vacuum hose with binding tape, special plastic holders, snap-together bindings, and the like. However, the use of such a vacuum hose/fluid line combination resulted in operational difficulties because the flexibility of the vacuum hose was lost due to the attachment of a relatively stiff fluid pressure hose adapted for conveying fluid under high pressure and heat to the vacuum nozzle area. In other words, a relatively stiff, bulky hose is generally not readily manipulated to perform cleaning operations. In addition, these types of attachments still left portions of the pressure hose hanging loose whereby the portions would snare small pieces of furniture. In the case of truck mounted extractors, wherein a vacuum hose and pressure hose must be dragged into a house from the truck, it frequently snares and uproots small plants and lawn sprinklers.
In order to address such disadvantages, an arrangement was developed for incorporating the fluid hose within the vacuum hose so that both could be flexed and moved about an area to be cleaned with less difficulty. One example of such a commercial device is the upholstery cleaning tool of the KleenRite Company of Santa Barbara, Calif.
However, even in such later developments in the art, in general, the flexibility of a vacuum hose with an internally positioned fluid hose remains inadequate for easy handling of the vacuum nozzle or hand tool by an operator. Such later cleaning arrangements still require the operator to interrupt the cleaning process in order to reposition the various devices of the cleaning apparatus because of the lack of complete flexibility of the vacuum hose/fluid line combination.
In the use of such conventional fluid extraction hoses of the type as generally referenced above, fluid dispensing hoses or tubes are retained in vacuum hoses, and both of the hoses are connected at respective ends to a heated fluid dispensing apparatus and a cleaning tool, such as those which are hand held. In some instances, such commercial devices are constructed and arranged at relatively high expense to the consumer in that relatively high cost hose connections and fluid dispensing tube connections are utilized. For example, as generally shown in U.S. Pat. No. 4,083,077, a vacuum system utilized for fluid extraction methods is described as employing two entirely different constructions for the vacuum hose connections to the hand held tool and the fluid dispensing vacuum system. Perhaps the most significant disadvantage of the devices disclosed in this patent is that the tubular extensions and flow lines therein must be formed with sharp angles thereby reducing speed and fluid flow. Similarly, U.S. Pat. No. 4,159,554 discloses even more complicated hose connections for the vacuum system. In such patent, two fluid dispensing lines are utilized with coupling ends that are quite different from each other, thereby requiring specific additional parts for their function. Still another example of the complex and expensive arrangements in some prior art constructions is represented by U.S. Pat. No. 4,161,802, which describes an arrangement for cleaning draperies and the like. Design U.S. Pat. No. 239,243 also relates generally to fabric cleaning devices.


Methods and systems for branch encoding an electric network to identify a direction of power flow in the electric network are provided. Sequential numbers are assigned to a first power source, each one of a plurality of power branches, and each one of a plurality of nodes. A rationalized value indicative of a direction of current flow through a branch is assigned to each branch of the plurality of branches. The rationalized value of each branch is determined as the difference between the numbers assigned to that branch's first connecting node and its second connecting node.

The embodiments described herein relate generally to electric power generation and delivery systems and, more particularly, to systems and methods for use in branch encoding in a utility network.
Power generated by an electric utility is typically delivered to a customer via an electric grid. The electric power generation and delivery system is closely monitored and controlled by an electric grid control system that includes a large number of individual subsystems, which may also include multiple components. Typically, information is transmitted from many of the subsystems/components to the control system for use in controlling operation of the electric grid. For example, some power utilities utilize what is referred to as a "smart grid."
Known smart grids include a plurality of components and subsystems that communicate with a central management system, typically located at the utility. The components and subsystems may be distributed at various points in the utility network to facilitate power distribution. Due at least in part to the large scale of a smart grid, and the quantity of individual component/subsystems that may be included in the smart grid, information at the management system, for use in centralized management of the smart grid, is generally expansive and complex. In general, users of the management system have to individually locate, select, and display each portion of target information to separate screens or windows. Accordingly, such data management systems may be cumbersome and/or time consuming.

Methods and systems for branch encoding in an electric network


The present invention relates to a method for virtual assembly of a structure, the structure being supposed to be assembled from a multitude of components on a construction site, the method comprising measuring, at a multitude of locations remote from the construction site, the components of the structure subsequent to their production and prior to their transport to the construction site, wherein the measuring comprises measuring at least the shape and size of connecting elements of each of the components, creating virtual representations of the components, virtually assembling the representations of the components, determining, based on assembly tolerances, whether the structure can be assembled with the measured components, and deciding, by means of an optimization algorithm, whether one or more components are to be reproduced, one or more components are to be reworked, and/or the structure is to be redesigned.

The typical, traditional way for the engineering, procurement and construction of a structure, such as a building, a plant, a bridge or a machine or vehicle is as follows. At the beginning, there is a demand, for example of a customer, and the process for realization starts with the design of the structure. In case that a support structure for the building or plant is required, the design step includes also the design of the support structure, for example supported by a digital terrain model as a further input.
When the design of the whole structure is finished, thus allowing for an overview, the various parts for the structure are designed, and typically, related CAD data and specifications for the parts are generated. Then, nowadays a virtual assembly of the structure, eventually including a support structure, is created using a "virtual assembly" module of computerized design and construction tools. A list of needed parts is established and, depending on availability, it is determined which parts can be purchased as standard parts and which parts, as "special parts", have to be specially manufactured, eventually by a subcontractor, to whom then construction drawings are sent. The step of organizing the acquiring of the needed parts, including the mailing of purchase orders and requiring specification of delivery times, is typically performed using logistic means, which may also be integrated in the design tools.
After receipt of the parts, these are sent to the construction location where the assembly will be done. This means that specially manufactured parts will be shipped by the subcontractor directly to the assembly location, and the standard parts will be delivered from the supplier's stock to the assembly location.
The assembly will start in the order that is described by the assembly list (created from the "virtual assembly" module), assuming that all parts will fit together. If there are deviations in fitting, dimensions of tools etc., these issues are addressed by rework at the construction site, which typically involves significant difficulties, as typically in the construction environment an optimum infrastructure or equipment with manufacturing tools for the parts is often not given. In the worst case, parts have to be disassembled and sent back to the supplier for rework or exchange. These repair-type works are typically costly and can lead to significant delays and a replication of work steps, which is not at all efficient. A simple example of a problem that might arise at the construction site may be meeting two pipes that should be welded together but do not meet, such that they may have to be forced together and then welded, what would mean introducing stress into the system, thus impairing stability and potential life time of the structure.
In the case of a building or plant to be erected on a support structure, after design of the support structure first there will be a stake out of support positions for the support structure, before the support structure is built from the acquired related parts. Even if the parts or already pre-manufactured sub-assemblies for the building/plant arrive in a correct state as planned at the construction site, problems may arise if the support positions/orientations are not correct. This could, for example, cause a need for adjusting/changing the support positions or the support structure, which typically is very costly at this stage of the process.
For supporting construction processes and organizing an assembling of parts to form structures thereof, different approaches are known. For example the patents DE 10 2008 062 458 A1 and DE 10 2009 037 830 B3 each disclose devices for the measuring of large assembly parts.
DE 10 2008 062 458 A1 discloses a laser-based measuring device for use during manufacturing processes in machine and equipment construction. The device has a laser utilized as a light source and an optical sensor, e.g. a charge coupled device (CCD) matrix sensor, where an object to be measured is provided in the laser radiation beam path of the laser. A first polarizing filter is provided in the radiation beam path, where adjustment of a polarization plane corresponds to a direction of linear polarization of the laser radiation. A second polarizing filter is arranged in the radiation beam path such that the orientation of its polarization plane is twisted with respect to the polarization plane of the first polarizing filter. Additionally, a color filter is placed in the radiation beam path in order to allow only pass of radiation of the laser emission wavelength.
DE 10 2009 037 830 B3 discloses a device and a method for measuring the surface of assembly parts, particularly of large components, using a scanning system on a measuring arm. The scanning can be done either mechanically in a tactile manner or optically using a laser. The device can be positioned and fixed on the assembly part. Then the arm, which has a fixed reference point with respect to the assembly part, is driven by a drive unit and an area of the surface of the assembly part is measured. This step is repeated until the assembly part has been measured completely.
EP 1653191 A1 discloses an apparatus for presenting differences between objects, such as an actual position and posture of an input target object, in real space and their corresponding design information in virtual space, for example as stored figuration information of the target object. The apparatus includes a superposed image generation unit, configured to generate an image which is obtained by superposing and displaying the image of the target object input from the image input unit and the stored figuration information of the target object. The apparatus includes a three-dimensional CAD with a three-dimensional design information storage unit configured to store three-dimensional design information of the target object. The apparatus is dedicated for facilitating the adaptation of the actual real target object to its design, particularly related to the construction process of a plant or factory facility.
Several studies have been published which address the introduction of virtual reality (VR) in architecture and in the construction process.
The use of 4D/VR in the construction of a high-rise apartment and commercial store building project in South Korea is described in Kim et al (2001). The biggest gain from using 4D/VR models was achieved from improving communication between managers and workers which led to reducing the construction time from 43 months to 39 months (Kim W., Lim H. C, Kim O., Choi Y. K. and Lee I.-S. (2001), "Visualized construction process on virtual reality", Proceedings of the Fifth International Conference on Information Visualisation, IEEE Computer Society, Los Alamitos, Calif., USA, pp 684-689).
The use of VR in the construction of a new lecture hall in Helsinki was studied by Savioja et al (2003). The study described the process starting from a relative simple VR model for presentation of the concept and layout. The model was further detailed until a photo realistic model of the building could be presented and used for detailed studies of the design (Savioja L., Mantere M, Iikka O., Ayräväinen S., Gröhn M. and Iso-Aho J. (2003), "Utilizing virtual environments in construction projects", Electronic Journal of Information Technology in Construction (ITcon) Vol. 8, pp 85-99).
Woksepp et al. (2004) investigated how a VR model was experienced and assessed by the users in the construction of a large hotel and office building, and the extent to which such model could complement the 2D CAD drawings that are mainly employed in such a context (Woksepp S., Tullberg O. and Olofsson T. (2004), "Virtual reality at the building site: investigation how the VR model is experienced and its practical applicability", Proceedings of European Conference on Product and Process Modeling in Construction (ECPPM 2004), Istanbul, Turkey, 8-10 September).
Ganah et al (2005) presented a research project with the aim to develop a visualisations system for graphical communication of constructability information between design and construction teams. The objective was to improve the lack of communication between design and construction using visualisation tools (Ganah A. A., Bouchlaghem N. B. and Anumba C J. (2005), "VISCON: Computer visualisation support for constructability, Electronic Journal of Information Technology in Construction (ITcon), Vol. 10, pp 69-83).
Recently, also efforts have been undertaken in order to introduce VR in the construction process as a tool to support the design and construction process, besides only use as a visualization tool. A case study was published which described the use of VR in a construction project by providing values achieved and examples from how the customer, design teams and planning teams have been using VR models as a complementary source of information to 3D CAD models and 2D CAD drawings in the construction of a large-scale pelletizing plant (MK3) in northern Sweden. The research objective was to provide new insights and knowledge about the values of using VR models in a construction projects with focus on the design and planning process (Woksepp S., Olofsson T., "Using virtual reality in a large-scale industry project, ITcon Vol. 11 (2006), pp 627-640). Within this construction project, an iterative design process concerning, besides others, mechanics, electrical installations and the control system and involving the development of digital mock-up models, which were subjected to modifications for eliminating design errors in the course of the project, was developed.
The above described approaches, however, are all related only to parts of the process for engineering, procurement and construction of a structure, but do not present a solution for the process as a whole.

Method and system for virtual assembly of a structure


A device for securely engaging and retaining a golf ball. The device is preferably adapted for secure placement on the end of the grip of a golf club, such as a putter, thus enabling a user to use the club to extend his/her reach and pick up a golf ball from the ground or from within the golf cup. The device further preferably include a mechanism for releasing the ball that may be actuated with the foot of the user, thereby permitting placement of the ball on a tee or the ground without the user having to bend.

The present invention relates generally to golf accessories, and more particularly to golf accessories designed to assist golfers in picking up a golf ball.
Golf is a sport that may be played and enjoyed by people regardless of age and in less than ideal physical condition. If a person has a back problems or other physical limitations brought about by knee problems, hip problems, pregnancy, weight problems, and the like, that make it undesirable to bend over, for instance when picking up a ball out of a cup or placing a ball on a tee, that person either has to have another person who will routinely perform those necessary tasks, the person has to bear the pain associated with bending, or an alternative arrangement has to be made. In the game of miniature golf which involves only the putting portion of the golf game, a person is constantly bending over to pick and place the ball, thereby exacerbating the problem.
It is therefore a principal object and advantage of the present invention to provide a device that permits a golfer to pick and place a ball without the user having to bend over.
It is another object and advantage of the present invention to be usable in combination with any golf club.
Other objects and advantages of the present invention will in part be obvious, and in part appear hereinafter.


A seating construction with joined seat and backrest parts has a plenum into which is received temperature conditioned air. Coil springs define the plenum and a covering is secured over the springs consisting of, from the inside out, a metal mesh layer, an elastomer sheet with a number of openings, and an air permeable fabric layer. The elastomer sheet behaves as a viscous liquid when subjected to forces and shocks. An alternative to the elastomer sheet is a baglike layer filled with fluid with a number of openings provided to enable passage of conditioned air through the layer.

In co-pending U.S. patent application Ser. No. 07/272,518, COOLING AND HEATING SEAT PAD, filed Nov. 17, 1988 by Steve Feher there is described a seat pad construction which can be located on a preexisting seat, or consolidated integrally into a seat, which has an internal plenum supplied with air from a Peltier powered unit that can be cooled or heated, as desired. Although the described device functions adequately for the desired purpose of cooling and heating, in order to achieve optimal operation it was thought necessary that comfort would have to be sacrificed. Also, under certain conditions excessive accumulation of condensate was found to occur with the potential of spilling and damaging vicinity of use.

Selectively cooled or heated seat and backrest construction


A display apparatus comprises a display assembly and a main control chip. The display assembly comprises K timing controllers, K data driving circuits and a display panel. Each timing controller is configured to receive a set of pixel data among K sets of pixel data into which an i-th row of pixel data in a frame of image data are divided. A data driving circuit in the K data driving circuits is configured to receive the set of pixel data from a corresponding timing controller and output a set of data voltages. The display panel is configured to receive K sets of data voltages for display. The main control chip comprises a processor configured to receive the frame of image data, divide the i-th row of pixel data into the K sets of pixel data, and simultaneously transmit the K sets of pixel data to the K timing controllers.

In the related art, a signal source device such as a video card or a host outputs a signal to a display apparatus. After receiving the signal, a main control chip (Scaler) inside the display apparatus decodes the signal, and then recodes the signal according to a connection interface protocol between the main control chip and a timing controller, and outputs the recoded signal to the timing controller; and afterwards the timing controller controls signal outputs of a gate driving circuit and a data driving circuit.
However, as a resolution and a refresh rate of the signal become higher and higher, a very high bandwidth is required for transmission, but a connection interface between the main control chip and the timing controller cannot currently support such a high bandwidth.

Display assembly, display apparatus, and display method and transmission method of data signal

Beijing BOE Technology Development Co., Ltd.


A coupling that includes a rigid inner shell, a rigid outer shell positioned around the inner shell to define an intermediate space that contains an electric line and a thermally insulating layer, and an electric connecting line for heating fluid that flows in the inner shell.

Such a coupling is in particular designed to be used in a network of underwater hydrocarbon transport pipes. The pipe network is submerged in an expanse of water, in particular at a significant depth.
This network is for example designed to connect different wellheads to each other, or different pipeline end terminations (PLET) in order to collect the fluid taken from the different wells of an underwater oilfield and bring it to the surface through at least one riser.
In some cases, in particular at great depths, the temperatures of the expanse of water in which the pipe network is submerged can be low, for example several degrees Celsius.
In that case, the fluids transported through the pipe network may become very viscous. This reduces the flow rate of the fluid extracted outside the facility.
In the worst-case scenario, hydrate plugs may form and completely block the recovery of fluid through part of the facility.
In order to offset this problem, it is known to heat the fluid flowing in the pipes, either by passing electric current directly through the metal tube guiding the fluid, or by providing an electric heating line positioned between an inner metal tube containing the fluid and an outer metal tube. The latter configuration is designated by the term "Electrical Tracing Heated Pipe-In-Pipe" (ETH-PIP).
The electric heating lines are relatively easy to install in the annular space between the inner tube and the outer tube of a linear rigid pipe element. A layer of high-quality thermally insulating material, for example formed by an aerogel, is also introduced into the annular space, to provide good thermal insulation between the outside of the pipe element and the fluid flowing in the pipe element.
In some configurations, a T coupling, made up of a single metal shell, is mounted between three linear pipe elements to hydraulically connect those elements. The T coupling is respectively connected to a first double-shell pipe element and a second double-shall pipe element each containing an electric heating line.
Then, a water resistant insulating material is poured around the metal shell of the coupling. An electric connecting line is also positioned in the expanse of water around the coupling to electrically couple the electric heating lines of the pipe elements mounted on the coupling.
Such a coupling is not fully satisfactory. The insulating material surrounding the coupling provides thermal insulation lower than that of an insulating material contained in a double shell of a linear pipe element. A cold point may therefore appear at the coupling.
Furthermore, the electric connecting line is connected to the heating lines in a wet environment, directly in the expanse of water. A deterioration of the electrical connection, or even short circuits, may appear.

Intermediate coupling for connecting rigid pipe elements for conveying a fluid, and associated pipe network and assembly method


An improved treadmill comprises a motor driven endless belt, sensors located below an upper run of the belt for sensing the position of a user, and a controller for controlling the speed of the belt in accordance with the position of the user relative to the sensors. The detection or lack of detection of the user by the sensors can cause the belt to accelerate, decelerate, remain at a constant speed, or stop. A proper sequence of user detections by the sensors permits the controller to initiate an automatic speed adjusting system. The controller also provides a safety system for stopping the belt. In one embodiment, the controller stops the belt upon a lack of the sensors detecting the user. In another embodiment, a safety sensor is mounted on an upper surface of a member located proximate the belt, and the controller stops the belt when the safety sensor senses the user.

The present invention relates to an exercise device having an endless surface, and more particularly to a treadmill having a motor driven endless belt with the capability of automatically changing the speed of the belt in accordance with the position of a user relative to the treadmill.
Treadmills are usually motor driven with the speed of the belt being adjustable by a user reaching forward and pressing correct buttons on a console. However, running on a treadmill, especially at speeds in excess of 8 miles per hour, requires an extra amount of coordination when adjusting the speed on the console, as it is difficult to adjust the speed on the console without breaking stride or falling. Therefore, a workout on a treadmill can be made safer and more effective by automatically controlling the speed of the belt.
Motor driven treadmills which do not require the user to manually adjust a control knob to adjust the belt speed can be categorized into two types. The first type adjusts the belt speed as a function of a user's biological functions and the second type adjusts the belt speed as a function of a user's position relative to the treadmill.
The most common variety of the first type automatically controls the belt speed as a function of a user's heart rate. One such device is U.S. Pat. No. 3,518,985 to Quinton, providing an electrocardiograph pickup device attached to the user detecting the user's heart rate, and a controller adjusting the belt speed to keep the user's heart rate to a predetermined selected value. While treadmills of this type of control system may be preferred for heart patients, many users prefer to run on treadmills which are more performance oriented as opposed to health oriented.
Treadmills of the second type, which automatically control the belt speed in accordance with the position of the user, are desirable because they permit the user to adjust the belt speed by merely changing their pace, thus simulating natural conditions more closely. French Patent 1,565,617, U.S. Pat. No. 1,919,627 issued to Fitzgerald, and U.S. Pat. No. 4,708,337 issued to Shyu are three examples of devices which fall within this second type.
French Patent 1,565,617 discloses a motor driven treadmill having sensors placed at the sides of the treadmill of sensing the position of the user. There are five sensors arranged from the front to the rear of the treadmill. Each sensor consists of an incandescent lamp and photoelectric cell. The sensors feed signals to an electric circuit controlling the motor which drives the treadmill belt. The sensor closest to the rear of the treadmill turns the motor on and sensor closest to the front of the treadmill turns the motor off. The three sensors in the middle make it possible to increase or reduce the speed of the motor in accordance with the sensed position of the user.
U.S. Pat. No. 1,919,627 issued to Fitzgerald provides a motor driven treadmill automatically controlled by the position of the user's body with respect to an electrostatic sensor fixedly mounted to the treadmill. The sensor is an arrangement of capacity plates or electrodes located at the forward end of the treadmill and senses the location of the user by being electrically influenced due to electrical capacity of the user's body.
U.S. Pat. No. 4,708,337 issued to Shyu discloses a motor driven treadmill wherein the belt is driven by a motor automatically controlled by the position of the user's body. The position of the user's body is sensed by an ultrasound sensor mounted on the control panel. The speed of the drive motor is adjusted as a function of the position of the user as sensed by the ultrasound sensor.
Although the above-described treadmills automatically increase and decrease the belt speed as a function of the position of a user, they include disadvantages which make them more susceptible to damage and less accurate.
The location of the sensors for each above-described treadmill which sensing the position of a user are located above the belt surface, the photoelectric sensors are mounted on side rails and the electrostatic and ultrasound sensors being mounted on the front console. As these sensors are mounted in areas which can be contacted, they are susceptible to damage by being bumped or struck by objects and persons, causing malfunctions in the treadmill. Additionally, many of these sensor arrangements may be cost prohibitive to implement on treadmills in today's marketplace.
The sensors for each of the treadmills are also less accurate than many users desire. For example, the photoelectric sensors are affected by baggy jogging clothes which pass through the light beam provided by the incandescent lamp causing false hits. Photoelectric sensors are also susceptible to dust accumulation producing false hits. An observer standing adjacent the running surface can also produce a false hit upon accidentally touching the side rails and crossing the path of light. Additionally, the photoelectric sensors require alignment between a lamp, a reflector, and a receiver, which makes them difficult to manufacture and susceptible to malfunction with the slightest misalignment.
Electrostatic sensors are not accurate because they are affected by many different factors including the temperature and humidity conditions, the degree of particulate matter in the air, electromagnetic interference produced by the drive motor and the clothing worn by user. Therefore, it is possible that while a user is having problems keeping up with the belt speed, an electrostatic sensor can pick up particulate matter in the air and falsely register that the user is proximate the front of the treadmill, and subsequently accelerate the belt forcing the user to dismount the treadmill and possibly causing injury.
Ultrasonic sensors are not desirable because they are geared to detect the position of the user by sensing the torso of the user and they could produce false hits if the user raises their arms. Further, ultrasound sensors may not be as accurate as some users desire because adjusting the belt speed as a function of the posture of the user causes the belt to speed up or slow down by leaning forward or backward, even if the user is sustaining the same pace as the belt.

Treadmill having an automatic speed control system


A new variety of carnation plant producing attractive light yellow picotee pink flowers.

Classification: The present invention relates to a new Hybrid Dianthus caryophyllus plant.
Variety denomination: The new plant has the varietal denomination xe2x80x98CFPC ESSENCExe2x80x99.
The present invention relates to a new and distinct variety of carnation plant. The varietal denomination of the new variety is xe2x80x98CFPC ESSENCExe2x80x99. The parents of the new variety are not known. It is the result of open pollenation by unknown seedlings.
Among the novel characteristics possessed by the new variety which distinguish it from other varieties of which I am aware, are its attractive light yellow picotee pink flowers which retain color without fading. When grown in a greenhouse in Salinas, Calif., in 4xc2xd inch plastic pots, pinched plants are about 7 inches tall and about 7 inches in diameter. Flower diameter averages about 2xe2x85x9 inches with a crown of about 1 inch (average). Foliage is about 3xc2xc inches long and about {fraction (7/16)} inch wide at its widest point.
Asexual reproduction by propagation by cuttings of the new variety as performed in Salinas, Calif., shows that the foregoing and other distinguishing characteristics come true to form and are established and transmitted through succeeding propagation.

Hybrid carnation plant named xe2x80x98CFPC Essencexe2x80x99


A card connector carrier structure, suitable for being mounted within a hand-held electronic device, comprises a circuit board (210) and a support tray (230) mounted to the circuit board. The circuit board is provided with a slot (216) through a thickness thereof. The support tray is formed from a thin sheet that includes a connector-receiving region (234) in the slot of the circuit board and an attachment member (232) attached to a surface (212) of the circuit board at a periphery of the slot. A card connector is further arranged in the connector-receiving region of the support tray within the slot of the circuit board. The card connector is thereby positioned within the slot, whereby an overall thickness of the card connector and the circuit board is reduced, and accordingly, a thickness of a hand-held electronic device incorporating the card connector and the circuit board can be reduced.

This application claims the priority benefit of Taiwan application serial no. 91213137, filed on Aug. 23, 2002.
1. Field of the Invention
The invention relates generally to a card connector carrier structure and, more particularly, to a card connector carrier structure suitable for being mounted within a hand-held electronic device.
2. Description of the Related Art
Personal digital assistant (PDA) devices become increasingly more popular. Originally, the design of PDA had the purpose of constructing an electronic device that has the functions of scheduler, event recording, electronic directory, etc. As the processing speed of computers becomes increasingly higher and the Internet and wireless communication are developed, the PDA therefore incorporates more functions of wireless communication, Internet access, games, multi-media, etc. This extension of incorporated functions gives birth to the so-called xe2x80x9chand-held computersxe2x80x9d.
The PDA is usually provided with a limited amount of memory to store data. If the user wants to increase the memory capacity, an additional small memory card usually has to be connected to the PDA. Presently, numerous types and standards of memory cards exist, among which the secure digital (SD) cards and compact-flash (CF) cards are the most commonly used. To connect the additional memory card to the PDA, a card connector meeting the standard of the memory card must be provided in the PDA. Once the memory card is connected to the card connector, the PDA can access to the data stored in the memory card.
To increase the number of types of memory card the PDA can accommodate, two different types of card connector are respectively provided at top and bottom surfaces of the circuit board of the PDA. In this case, the two card connectors are usually assembled with the circuit board in a manner to have their respective card insertion slots oriented toward a front side of the PDA to facilitate the insertion and removal of the memory cards. However, with two card connectors, the thickness of the PDA, which principally includes the respective thickness of the upper and lower covers, the thickness of the circuit board and the respective thickness of the card connectors, is inevitably increased. With the traditional assembly structure, the incorporation of additional card connectors therefore adversely results in the increase of the PDA size.
Referring to FIG. 1 and FIG. 2, a perspective view and a side cross-sectional view schematically illustrate a traditional assembly of two card connectors with the circuit board of a PDA. As illustrated, a circuit board 110 of the PDA includes a first surface 112 (i.e. top surface) and an opposite second surface 114 (i.e., bottom surface) on which a first card connector 120 and a second card connector are respectively mounted. The first card connector 120 may be, for example, an SD card connector, and the second card connector may be, for example, a CF card connector. As illustrated in FIG. 2, the traditional assembly of the first card connector 120, the circuit board 110, and the second card connector 140 increases the thickness and size of the PDA.
An aspect of the invention is therefore to provide a card connector carrier structure, suitable for being mounted within a hand-held electronic device such as PDA, that can reduce the thickness of the hand-held electronic device.
To accomplish the above and other objectives, the invention provides a card connector carrier structure that comprises a circuit board of the hand-held electronic device and a support tray mounted to the circuit board of the hand-held electronic device. A slot is formed through a thickness of the circuit board, passing through a first and an opposite second surface of the circuit board. The support tray is formed by stamping a thin metal sheet including a recessed connector-receiving region located within the slot of the circuit board and an attachment member attached to the first surface of the circuit board at a periphery of the slot. The card connector is further arranged in the connector-receiving region of the support tray within the slot to reduce the thickness of the assembly of the card connector and the circuit board, and therefore the thickness of the hand-held electronic device.
In accordance with the above and other objectives, a second card connector is further mounted to the second surface of the circuit board.
It is to be understood that both the foregoing general description and the following detailed description are exemplary, and are intended to provide further explanation of the invention as claimed.


An image processing system configured to process perceived images of an environment includes a central processing unit (CPU) including a memory storage device having stored thereon a computer model of the environment, at least one sensor configured and disposed to capture a perceived environment including at least one of visual images of the environment and range data to objects in the environment, and a rendering unit (RU) configured and disposed to render the computer model of the environment forming a rendered model of the environment. The image processing system compares the rendered model of the environment to the perceived environment to update the computer model of the environment.

Exemplary embodiments pertain to the art of sensor processing and, more particularly to a system and method for processing captured images.
Moving platforms such as robots, drones, and the like, includes sensors that provide environmental feedback. Sensors may include visual sensors, such as cameras, and range sensors that may detect an object or a distance to an object. The moving platform may include autonomous control that relies on the sensors for navigation. When under autonomous control, the moving platform often times includes a map that facilitates various capabilities such as obstacle avoidance, path planning, place, and object recognition.

System and method for processing captured images


An apparatus for measuring electromagnetic characteristics includes a sample rod with a sample fixed to a lower part thereof, a helium 3 refrigerator, in which the sample rod is inserted, having a main pipe that forms around the sample rod a space that is cooled by helium 3, a device for supplying helium 3 to the helium 3 refrigerator, an inner tube portion, into which the main pipe is inserted, that supports at an upper part thereof the refrigerator, an outer tube that cools an outer periphery of the inner tube with helium, a liquid helium container that supplies liquid helium to the outer tube, and a device for measuring the electromagnetic characteristics of the sample.

1. Field of the Invention
The present invention relates to an apparatus for measuring electromagnetic characteristics, such as magnetization at cryogenic temperatures, electrical resistance in a magnetic field, Hall effect and so forth. The invention particularly relates to an apparatus for measuring electromagnetic characteristics using a helium 3 refrigerator that is able to generate cryogenic temperatures down to 0.3 K and measure electromagnetic characteristics at the cryogenic temperatures, by utilizing a conventional MPMS with helium 4 that is able to generate a cryogenic temperature in the order of 1.8 K and then using helium 3 and the addition of a simple apparatus.
2. Description of the Prior Art
Magnetization measurement is an indispensable means of research into the physical properties of various materials, such as magnetic substances and superconductors. With respect to such magnetization measurement, currently the measurement apparatus called the MPMS (Magnetic Property Measurement System), made by Quantum Design Inc., of the United States, is widely used, being the de facto standard in measurement systems.
With the inclusion of a high-temperature option the MPMS is able to measure temperatures up to 800 K, but the lower limit is only 1.8 K, achieved using reduced-pressure liquid helium 4. For this reason, in making researches into specific superconductors, such as Ru or Re superconducting oxides having a superconducting transition temperature of around 1 K and various heavy-electron superconductors, that have recently attracted keen attention, the MPMS cannot be used to perform magnetization measurement. Since pNPNN that is a pure organic ferromagnetic substance developed for the first time in the world has a ferromagnetic transition temperature of 0.6 K, researches have been made using a handmade apparatus.
Since a temperature only in the order of 1.8 K can be achieved with an MPMS widely employed in the prior art, as described above, it has been unable to perform magnetization measurement in relation to the aforementioned various materials that have attracted keen attention. For magnetization measurement below 1.8 K, an apparatus has to be specially fabricated. This makes it a special-order item, which is very costly. In addition to this, its lack of general utility makes it difficult to use the manufactured apparatus in a wide range of fields.
Moreover, it is very difficult to configure such a special-order apparatus so that it can measure direct-current magnetization using a superconducting quantum interference device (SQUID), so instead it is often used to measure alternating-current magnetization. However, the low sensitivity of measurement based on alternating-current magnetization makes it impossible to directly determine the magnitude of magnetization. Furthermore, even when direct-current magnetization is measured, conventional measuring methods are used, such as the extraction method, vibrating sample method and magnetic field sweep method; measurement using a SQUID of ultrahigh sensitivity has not been possible. For these reasons, the benefits of ultrahigh sensitivity provided by using a SQUID have not been obtained.
Moreover, as the name indicates, an MPMS is essentially an apparatus for measuring magnetization at cryogenic temperatures and cannot readily be used to measure electrical resistance or Hall effect.
Thus, a main object of the present invention is to provide an apparatus for measuring cryogenic electromagnetic characteristics that is capable of high-sensitivity measurement of magnetization characteristics at a cryogenic temperature in the order of 0.3 K generated using a widely employed MPMS (Magnetic Property Measurement System).
Another object of this invention is to provide an apparatus for measuring cryogenic electromagnetic characteristics that can use the above-described MPMS to measure electrical resistance and Hall effect as well as magnetization at cryogenic temperatures.
The basic idea of the present invention is to use an auxiliary rotary pump to decrease to 1.5 K a 1.8 K space provided by an MPMS, insert therein a small, vertically-movable helium 3 refrigerator, and move the whole refrigerator vertically within a pickup coil to measure direct-current magnetization. The helium 3 refrigerator can reduce the temperature of a sample to 0.3 K. Unlike a case in which just the sample is moved up and down in liquid helium 3, moving the whole refrigerator up and down enables the sample to be maintained at a constant temperature. Based on this basic technical concept, the present invention employs the configuration described below to resolve the above problems.
That is, the apparatus for measuring electromagnetic characteristics according to this invention comprises a sample rod with a sample fixed to a lower part thereof; a helium 3 refrigerator, in which the sample rod is inserted, having a main pipe that forms around the sample rod a space that is cooled by helium 3; means for supplying helium 3 to the helium 3 refrigerator; an inner tube portion, into which the main pipe is inserted, that supports at an upper part thereof the refrigerator; an outer tube that cools an outer periphery of the inner tube with helium; a liquid helium container that supplies liquid helium to the outer tube; and means for measuring electromagnetic characteristics of the sample.
To supply helium 3 to the main pipe, the means of supplying helium 3 to the helium 3 refrigerator can be connected to the main pipe by a bellows that maintains an interior thereof in an airtight state.
The main pipe can be equipped with a vacuum insulation member for insulation from a surrounding space.
The outer tube can have main pump and auxiliary pump piping.
The apparatus for measuring electromagnetic characteristics according to the present invention can further comprise a control unit connected to the helium 3 refrigerator and the sample rod for performing magnetic field control, sample temperature control and measurement activities.
The means for measuring electromagnetic characteristics of the sample can be constituted by a pickup coil that generates an induced electromotive force that is proportional to magnetization of the sample, and a SQUID that detects the generated electromotive force, to measure the sample""s magnetization.
The means for measuring electromagnetic characteristics of the sample can be constituted by a constant-current power supply that provides a flow of DC or AC measurement current between current terminals of the sample and a voltmeter for detecting differences in electrical potential between voltage terminals of the sample, to measure electrical resistance and Hall effect of the sample.
As described in the above, by utilizing an MPMS that is widely employed in the prior art, the apparatus for measuring electromagnetic characteristics according to the present invention can form a sample space inside the main pipe having a temperature as low as 0.3 K. In addition to using this to measure the magnetization of a sample, it can also be used to measure the electrical resistance and the Hall effect of the sample.
Further features of the invention, its nature and various advantages will be more apparent from the accompanying drawings and following detailed description of the invention.

Apparatus for measuring electromagnetic characteristics

National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science and Technology


For one sided anchoring of two casing elements the invention proposes an anchor including an anchor rod with a thread and an anchor head that is rotationally fixed at the anchor rod to drive the anchor to rotate. A first reaction bearing is arranged at a fixed distance from the anchor head, wherein an enveloping tube that is arrangeable on the anchor rod is supported at the first reaction bearing, wherein a sleeve that forms a second reaction bearing for a casing element that is remote from the anchor head is arranged at another end of the enveloping tube. The invention facilitates one sided anchoring.

Casing elements are used for casting concrete elements like ceilings or walls. Frame casing elements are known which include a plate made from wood, synthetic material or metal as a casing shell and a frame with longitudinal and transversal beams made from metal for reinforcement on a side of the casing shell that is the back side. The invention is not limited to casing elements of this type. In order to cast a wall from concrete two casing elements are placed at a distance from each other. The distance corresponds to a thickness of the wall to be cast. The casing elements are connected with anchors so that they sustain a pressure of liquid concrete that is filled in between the casing elements. After curing the concrete the anchors are removed before the casing element can be removed.
An anchor for connecting two casing elements that are arranged opposite to each other at a distance from each other is disclosed in the application publication document DE 10 245 187 A1. The known anchor includes a threaded rod which is inserted through pass through openings in the two casing elements and onto which wing nuts are threaded at outsides or back sides of the casing elements that are oriented away from each other and which hold the two casing elements together. Between the casing elements an enveloping tube is arranged on the threaded rod of the known anchor wherein hollow cones are inserted into ends of the envelopment tube which cones are arranged on the threaded rod like the envelopment tube and which contact sides of the casing elements that are oriented towards each other with a washer arranged there between. The enveloping tube together with the two hollow cones and the washers keeps the casing elements at a distance from each other. In order to connect the two casing elements the known anchor requires accessibility of the outsides of the two casing elements that are oriented away from each other.

Concrete form arrangement having form elements connected by anchor rod and method of producing the form arrangement


A method for providing a smoothly mixed slurry to a web is provided which includes inserting calcined gypsum and water into a mixer (12), agitating the contents of the mixer (12) to form an aqueous dispersion of the calcined gysum, and passing the agitated contents from an outlet (20) of the mixer (12) into a slurry dispensing apparatus (22) including a flexible, resilient conduit (24). Additionally, the method includes the step of creating a back-pressure on the mixture in the slurry dispensing apparatus by constricting the conduit (24). The constricting of the conduit (24) is effected by a constrictor valve (28) located on the conduit (24).

The present invention relates to a method and apparatus for preparing gypsum products (i.e., products comprising calcium sulfate dihydrate) from starting materials comprising calcined gypsum (i.e., calcium sulfate hemihydrate) and water. More particularly, the present invention relates to an improved valve on a conduit located downstream of the slurry mixer and typically used to supply agitated gypsum slurry to a wallboard production line. The basic technology of gypsum wallboard manufacture is disclosed in U.S. Pat. Nos. 1,500,452; 2,207,339 and 4,009,062 all of which are incorporated by reference herein. The present apparatus provides an improved flow of slurry from the dispensing system which enhances the uniform smoothness of the gypsum slurry at the wallboard production line.
It is well known to produce gypsum products by uniformly dispersing calcined gypsum in water to form a slurry and then casting the slurry into a desired shaped mold or onto a surface and allowing the slurry to set to form hardened gypsum by reaction of the calcined gypsum (calcium sulfate hemihydrite or anhydrite) with the water to form hydrated gypsum (calcium sulfate dihydrate).
A gypsum wallboard mixer typically includes a housing defining a mixing chamber with inlets for receiving calcined gypsum and water, among other additives well known in the art. The mixer includes an impeller or other type of agitator for agitating the contents to be mixed into a mixture or slurry. The discharge gate or extractor controls the flow of slurry from the mixer to the dispensing system.
Slurries exhibiting certain viscosities or other properties require differing amounts of materials, additives, entrained air, and the like, and may also require different processing times and equipment. In setting slurry requiring a low amount of entrained air, it is known to use a "pinch-type" valve that squeezes an elastomeric conduit carrying the slurry. Squeezing down on the conduit reduces the orifice of the conduit, which in turn, increases the pressure drop through the orifice, increases the back pressure, increases the volume of slurry in the mixer, and accelerates the flow through the conduit. This will result in a smoother, less air entrained, and more desirable slurry for certain applications.
Prior apparatuses for addressing some of the operational problems associated with dispensing a smooth, setting slurry include a "pinch-type" valve which can be mechanically operated or operated by compressed air or hydraulics to "pinch" down on the elastomeric conduit. However, the pinch valve deforms the conduit into a flattened or rectangular orifice which is susceptible to plugging from prematurely setting slurry in the flow, particularly in the corners of the orifice, where the flow velocity is lower. Further, the inlet and outlet orifices of the pinch valve are abrupt because pressure is exerted on the conduit in a substantially singular plane and does not allow for a gradual transition. Such abrupt entrances and exits can lead to further plugging of slurry producing equipment, which causes costly downtime for repairs.
Muscle valves, consisting of a hydraulic chamber around a thick elastomeric sleeve, provide a round orifice but an abrupt flow channel since the pressure is exerted in a substantially singular plane or at one point along the conduit. Further, the muscle valves frequently are massive in size which limits the operator's access to the orifice for clearing a plug or buildup, or for general observation of the flow of slurry through the channel itself.
Plunger-type valves, knife gate valves, and custom made restrictors having an action similar to a "garotte" are also known. Similar problems are seen in the use of these valves as are exhibited with the muscle valves and the pinch valves. In particular, solids easily build up, forming crystalline gypsum, which then prematurely sets and causes further clogging of the apparatus.
Further, the prior art valves cannot easily reproduce exact settings which correspond to a given amount of restriction of the conduit. Further still, the prior art valves do not have interchangeable parts, nor are they adapted to be used with different sized conduits.
Accordingly, there is a need for an improved valve for a slurry mixing apparatus dispensing system and a method which promotes smoother, less air entrained slurry.
Another need is for an improved valve for a slurry mixing apparatus dispensing system which prevents build up of prematurely set slurry in the dispensing conduit.
Still another need is for an improved valve and method of use which is capable of continuously varying the flow of gypsum slurry from the mixing apparatus through the dispensing system to the production line.
A further need is for an improved valve system for a gypsum slurry mixing apparatus dispensing system and method of use which has parts that are readily adaptable to different sized conduits.
A further need is for an improved valve for a gypsum slurry mixing apparatus and dispensing system and method of use which provides an easily accessible mechanism for changing the volume of slurry emitted from the dispensing system.


A portable parabolic antenna apparatus is disclosed, which comprises a leg assembly which includes at least three legs and a foldable support assembly. The support assembly includes a base rotatably and detachably mounted on the leg assembly and supporting a communication device, a foldable intermediate member having one end coupled to the top of the base, and a reflector holding member coupled to the other end of the intermediate member, for holding a parabolic antenna, the reflector holding member being located at such a distance from the base that it support the communication device when the support assembly is unfolded, and when the support assembly is folded, the reflector holding member is moved to contact the base.

1. Field of the Invention
This invention relates to a parabolic antenna apparatus used as a ground mobile station for carrying out broadcasting and communication by utilizing satellite communication and, more particularly, to a portable parabolic antenna apparatus, which can be readily transported by men and can be readily moved and installed.
2. Description of the Related Art
Various kinds of mobile parabolic antenna apparatus for carrying out broadcasting and communication by utilizing satellite communication are well known in the art. A mobile parabolic antenna apparatus is provided with a parabolic reflector, but a parabolic antenna apparatus having a reflector with a diameter of 2.5 m or above can be very difficult for men to transport. Such a parabolic antenna apparatus, therefore, is designed such that it has a structure to be mounted in a vehicle.
However, there is a need of carrying out reports and communications using a parabolic antenna apparatus even in a place, into which no vehicle can enter. For this reason, there has been a demand for a parabolic antenna apparatus, which can be transported by men even to a place as noted above and can be compactly accommodated.
Meanwhile, a typical mobile parabola antenna apparatus is designed to be mounted in a vehicle, so that it is comparatively heavy in weight and comparatively large in size. Therefore, it can be difficult for men to transport. In such a case when it is intended to transport the parabolic antenna apparatus by disassembling it, its disassembly and reassembly take a long time, so that this is impractical.
Regarding parabolic reflectors for a parabolic antenna apparatus, there are those which can be disassembled into two or more parts. Such a dividable reflector is suited for transport because it can be compactly accommodated by disassembling it into small parts. However, in a typical dividable reflector, when its parts are coupled together by a bolt, a stress is generated in the coupling section due to a stress produced at that time, thus deteriorating the accuracy of the reflection surface.