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349,300 | 16,806,879 | 3,793 | A robot waist skeleton includes: a waist inner skeleton; and a waist outer skeleton, surrounding the waist inner skeleton, the waist outer skeleton being connected to the waist inner skeleton. | 1. A robot waist skeleton, comprising:
a waist inner skeleton; and a waist outer skeleton, surrounding the waist inner skeleton, the waist outer skeleton being connected to the waist inner skeleton. 2. The robot waist skeleton according to claim 1, wherein the waist outer skeleton comprises a waist outer skeleton lower part, a waist outer skeleton middle part, and a waist outer skeleton upper part; wherein
the waist outer skeleton lower part is connected to the waist inner skeleton; and the waist outer skeleton lower part, the waist outer skeleton middle part, and the waist outer skeleton upper part are connected in sequence, and all surround the waist inner skeleton. 3. The robot waist skeleton according to claim 2, wherein
the waist outer skeleton lower part comprises a waist outer skeleton left lower part and a waist outer skeleton right lower part; and the waist outer skeleton left lower part and the waist outer skeleton right lower part are respectively fixed to two sides at a lower part of the waist inner skeleton. 4. The robot waist skeleton according to claim 3, wherein
the waist outer skeleton middle part comprises a waist outer skeleton middle front part and a waist outer skeleton middle rear part; and the waist outer skeleton middle front part is connected to the waist outer skeleton left lower part and the waist outer skeleton right lower part respectively, the waist outer skeleton middle rear part is connected to the waist outer skeleton left lower part and the waist outer skeleton right lower part respectively, the waist outer skeleton middle front part is connected to the waist outer skeleton middle rear part, and the waist outer skeleton middle front part and the waist outer skeleton middle rear part surround a middle part of the waist inner skeleton. 5. The robot waist skeleton according to claim 4, wherein
the waist outer skeleton left lower part is provided with a first positioning pin, and the waist outer skeleton right lower part is provided with a second positioning pin; and the waist outer skeleton middle front part is provided with a first positioning hole and a second positioning hole, the first positioning pin being inserted into the first positioning hole, and the second positioning pin being inserted into the second positioning hole. 6. The robot waist skeleton according to claim 4, wherein
the waist outer skeleton left lower part is provided with a third positioning pin, and the waist outer skeleton right lower part is provided with a fourth positioning pin; and the waist outer skeleton middle rear part is provided with a third positioning hole and a fourth positioning hole, the third positioning pin being inserted into the third positioning hole, and the fourth positioning pin being inserted into the fourth positioning hole. 7. The robot waist skeleton according to claim 4, wherein
the waist outer skeleton upper part comprises a waist outer skeleton upper front part and a waist outer skeleton upper rear part; and the waist outer skeleton upper front part is connected to the waist outer skeleton middle front part, the waist outer skeleton upper rear part is connected to the waist outer skeleton middle rear part, the waist outer skeleton upper front part is connected to the waist outer skeleton upper rear part, and the waist outer skeleton upper front part and the waist outer skeleton upper rear part surround an upper part of the waist inner skeleton. 8. The robot waist skeleton according to claim 7, wherein
the waist outer skeleton middle front part is provided with a fifth positioning pin, and the waist outer skeleton upper front part is provided with a fifth positioning hole, the fifth positioning pin being inserted into the fifth positioning hole. 9. The robot waist skeleton according to claim 7, wherein
the waist outer skeleton middle rear part is provided with a sixth positioning pin, and the waist outer skeleton upper rear part is provided with a sixth positioning hole, the sixth positioning pin being inserted into the sixth positioning hole. 10. The robot waist skeleton according to claim 3, wherein surfaces of the waist outer skeleton lower part, the waist outer skeleton middle part, and the waist outer skeleton upper part that are distal from the waist inner skeleton are each provided with a skin positioning groove. 11. The robot waist skeleton according to claim 1, wherein the waist outer skeleton is made of a lightweight material. 12. A robot, comprising the robot waist skeleton as defined in claim 1. | A robot waist skeleton includes: a waist inner skeleton; and a waist outer skeleton, surrounding the waist inner skeleton, the waist outer skeleton being connected to the waist inner skeleton.1. A robot waist skeleton, comprising:
a waist inner skeleton; and a waist outer skeleton, surrounding the waist inner skeleton, the waist outer skeleton being connected to the waist inner skeleton. 2. The robot waist skeleton according to claim 1, wherein the waist outer skeleton comprises a waist outer skeleton lower part, a waist outer skeleton middle part, and a waist outer skeleton upper part; wherein
the waist outer skeleton lower part is connected to the waist inner skeleton; and the waist outer skeleton lower part, the waist outer skeleton middle part, and the waist outer skeleton upper part are connected in sequence, and all surround the waist inner skeleton. 3. The robot waist skeleton according to claim 2, wherein
the waist outer skeleton lower part comprises a waist outer skeleton left lower part and a waist outer skeleton right lower part; and the waist outer skeleton left lower part and the waist outer skeleton right lower part are respectively fixed to two sides at a lower part of the waist inner skeleton. 4. The robot waist skeleton according to claim 3, wherein
the waist outer skeleton middle part comprises a waist outer skeleton middle front part and a waist outer skeleton middle rear part; and the waist outer skeleton middle front part is connected to the waist outer skeleton left lower part and the waist outer skeleton right lower part respectively, the waist outer skeleton middle rear part is connected to the waist outer skeleton left lower part and the waist outer skeleton right lower part respectively, the waist outer skeleton middle front part is connected to the waist outer skeleton middle rear part, and the waist outer skeleton middle front part and the waist outer skeleton middle rear part surround a middle part of the waist inner skeleton. 5. The robot waist skeleton according to claim 4, wherein
the waist outer skeleton left lower part is provided with a first positioning pin, and the waist outer skeleton right lower part is provided with a second positioning pin; and the waist outer skeleton middle front part is provided with a first positioning hole and a second positioning hole, the first positioning pin being inserted into the first positioning hole, and the second positioning pin being inserted into the second positioning hole. 6. The robot waist skeleton according to claim 4, wherein
the waist outer skeleton left lower part is provided with a third positioning pin, and the waist outer skeleton right lower part is provided with a fourth positioning pin; and the waist outer skeleton middle rear part is provided with a third positioning hole and a fourth positioning hole, the third positioning pin being inserted into the third positioning hole, and the fourth positioning pin being inserted into the fourth positioning hole. 7. The robot waist skeleton according to claim 4, wherein
the waist outer skeleton upper part comprises a waist outer skeleton upper front part and a waist outer skeleton upper rear part; and the waist outer skeleton upper front part is connected to the waist outer skeleton middle front part, the waist outer skeleton upper rear part is connected to the waist outer skeleton middle rear part, the waist outer skeleton upper front part is connected to the waist outer skeleton upper rear part, and the waist outer skeleton upper front part and the waist outer skeleton upper rear part surround an upper part of the waist inner skeleton. 8. The robot waist skeleton according to claim 7, wherein
the waist outer skeleton middle front part is provided with a fifth positioning pin, and the waist outer skeleton upper front part is provided with a fifth positioning hole, the fifth positioning pin being inserted into the fifth positioning hole. 9. The robot waist skeleton according to claim 7, wherein
the waist outer skeleton middle rear part is provided with a sixth positioning pin, and the waist outer skeleton upper rear part is provided with a sixth positioning hole, the sixth positioning pin being inserted into the sixth positioning hole. 10. The robot waist skeleton according to claim 3, wherein surfaces of the waist outer skeleton lower part, the waist outer skeleton middle part, and the waist outer skeleton upper part that are distal from the waist inner skeleton are each provided with a skin positioning groove. 11. The robot waist skeleton according to claim 1, wherein the waist outer skeleton is made of a lightweight material. 12. A robot, comprising the robot waist skeleton as defined in claim 1. | 3,700 |
349,301 | 16,806,883 | 3,793 | A computer-implemented method comprises accessing, by a networking hardware device, identity awareness data for a plurality of client computing devices and device security policies of a plurality of IoT computing devices from at least one distributed data repository; authenticating, by the networking hardware device, a client computing device requesting access to at least one Internet of Things (IoT) computing device, based on the accessed identity awareness data; establishing, at the networking hardware device, firewall rules based on the accessed device security policies; creating, by the networking hardware device, a session for the authenticated client computing device to communicate with the at least one IoT computing device, wherein creating a session comprises posting information relating to the session as authentication session information to the at least one distributed data repository. | 1. A computer-implemented method comprising:
accessing, by a networking hardware device, identity awareness data for a plurality of client computing devices and device security policies of a plurality of IoT computing devices from at least one distributed data repository; authenticating, by the networking hardware device, a client computing device requesting access to at least one Internet of Things (IoT) computing device, based on the accessed identity awareness data; establishing, at the networking hardware device, firewall rules based on the accessed device security policies; creating, by the networking hardware device, a session for the authenticated client computing device to communicate with the at least one IoT computing device, wherein creating a session comprises posting information relating to the session as authentication session information to the at least one distributed data repository. 2. The method of claim 1, wherein the identity awareness data includes identities of users and access policies of users, wherein authenticating the client computing device comprises using the identities of users to determine whether the client computing device has access through the networking hardware device and using the access policies of users to determine whether the client computing device has access to the at least one IoT computing device. 3. The method of claim 1, wherein creating the session further comprises opening a port on the networking hardware device, wherein communication between the client computing device and the at least one IoT computing device is through the port. 4. The method of claim 1, further comprising:
encrypting, by the networking hardware device, outgoing data from the at least one IoT computing device according to the device security policies; transmitting, by the networking hardware device, the outgoing data that has been encrypted via a tunnel between the networking hardware device and another networking hardware device. 5. The method of claim 1, further comprising performing, by the networking hardware device, access control on incoming data to the at least one IoT computing device according to the device security policies. 6. The method of claim 1, further comprising decrypting, by the networking hardware device, incoming data according to the device security policies. 7. The method of claim 1, further comprising:
using the networking hardware device, allowing traffic between the client computing device and the at least one IoT computing device when the session is authenticated; using the networking hardware device, blocking the traffic between the client computing device and the at least one IoT computing device when the session is not authenticated. 8. One or more non-transitory machine-readable storage media storing one or more sequences of program instructions which, when executed by one or more computing devices, cause performing:
accessing, by a networking hardware device, identity awareness data for a plurality of client computing devices and device security policies of a plurality of IoT computing devices from at least one distributed data repository; authenticating, by the networking hardware device, a client computing device requesting access to at least one Internet of Things (IoT) computing device, based on the accessed identity awareness data; establishing, at the networking hardware device, firewall rules based on the accessed device security policies; creating, by the networking hardware device, a session for the authenticated client computing device to communicate with the at least one IoT computing device, wherein creating a session comprises posting information relating to the session as authentication session information to the at least one distributed data repository. 9. The one or more non-transitory machine-readable storage media of claim 8, wherein the identity awareness data includes identities of users and access policies of users, wherein authenticating the client computing device comprises using the identities of users to determine whether the client computing device has access through the networking hardware device and using the access policies of users to determine whether the client computing device has access to the at least one IoT computing device. 10. The one or more non-transitory machine-readable storage media of claim 8, wherein creating the session further comprises opening a port on the networking hardware device, wherein communication between the client computing device and the at least one IoT computing device is through the port. 11. The one or more non-transitory machine-readable storage media of claim 8, further comprising instructions that, when executed by one or more computing devices, cause:
encrypting, by the networking hardware device, outgoing data from the at least one IoT computing device according to the device security policies; transmitting, by the networking hardware device, the outgoing data that has been encrypted via a tunnel between the networking hardware device to another networking hardware device. 12. The one or more non-transitory machine-readable storage media of claim 8, further comprising instructions that, when executed by one or more computing devices, cause performing, by the networking hardware device, access control on incoming data to the at least one IoT device according to the device security policies. 13. The one or more non-transitory machine-readable storage media of claim 8, further comprising instructions that, when executed by one or more computing devices, cause decrypting, by the networking hardware device, incoming data according to the device security policies. 14. The one or more non-transitory machine-readable storage media of claim 8, further comprising instructions that, when executed by one or more computing devices, cause:
using the networking hardware device, allowing traffic between the client computing device and the at least one IoT computing device when the session is authenticated; using the networking hardware device, blocking the traffic between the client computing device and the at least one IoT computing device when the session is not authenticated. 15. A computer system comprising:
at least one distributed data repository; a networking hardware device communicatively coupled with the distributed data repository, wherein the networking hardware device comprises a second non-transitory data storage medium storing a second set of instructions which, when executed by the networking hardware device, cause:
accessing identity awareness data for a plurality of client computing devices and device security policies of a plurality of IoT computing devices from the at least one distributed data repository;
authenticating a client computing device requesting access to at least one Internet of Things (IoT) computing device, based on the accessed identity awareness data;
establishing firewall rules based on the accessed device security policies;
creating a session for the authenticated client computing device to communicate with the at least one IoT computing device, wherein creating a session comprises posting information relating to the session as authentication session information to the at least one distributed data repository. 16. The computer system of claim 15, wherein the identity awareness data includes identities of users and access policies of users, wherein authenticating the client computing device comprises using the identities of users to determine whether the client computing device has access through the networking hardware device and using the access policies of users to determine whether the client computing device has access to the at least one IoT computing device. 17. The computer system of claim 15, wherein creating the session further comprises opening a port on the networking hardware device, wherein communication between the client computing device and the at least one IoT computing device is through the port. 18. The computer system of claim 15, wherein the second non-transitory data storage medium storing the second set of instructions which, when executed by the networking hardware device, further cause:
encrypting outgoing data from the at least one IoT computing device according to the device security policies; transmitting the outgoing data that has been encrypted via a tunnel between the networking hardware device to another networking hardware device. 19. The computer system of claim 15, wherein the second non-transitory data storage medium storing the second set of instructions which, when executed by the networking hardware device, further cause:
performing access control on incoming data to the at least one IoT computing device according to the device security policies; decrypting the incoming data according to the device security policies. 20. The computer system of claim 15, wherein the second non-transitory data storage medium storing the second set of instructions which, when executed by the networking hardware device, further cause:
allowing traffic between the client computing device and the at least one IoT computing device when the session is authenticated; blocking the traffic between the client computing device and the at least one IoT computing device when the session is not authenticated. | A computer-implemented method comprises accessing, by a networking hardware device, identity awareness data for a plurality of client computing devices and device security policies of a plurality of IoT computing devices from at least one distributed data repository; authenticating, by the networking hardware device, a client computing device requesting access to at least one Internet of Things (IoT) computing device, based on the accessed identity awareness data; establishing, at the networking hardware device, firewall rules based on the accessed device security policies; creating, by the networking hardware device, a session for the authenticated client computing device to communicate with the at least one IoT computing device, wherein creating a session comprises posting information relating to the session as authentication session information to the at least one distributed data repository.1. A computer-implemented method comprising:
accessing, by a networking hardware device, identity awareness data for a plurality of client computing devices and device security policies of a plurality of IoT computing devices from at least one distributed data repository; authenticating, by the networking hardware device, a client computing device requesting access to at least one Internet of Things (IoT) computing device, based on the accessed identity awareness data; establishing, at the networking hardware device, firewall rules based on the accessed device security policies; creating, by the networking hardware device, a session for the authenticated client computing device to communicate with the at least one IoT computing device, wherein creating a session comprises posting information relating to the session as authentication session information to the at least one distributed data repository. 2. The method of claim 1, wherein the identity awareness data includes identities of users and access policies of users, wherein authenticating the client computing device comprises using the identities of users to determine whether the client computing device has access through the networking hardware device and using the access policies of users to determine whether the client computing device has access to the at least one IoT computing device. 3. The method of claim 1, wherein creating the session further comprises opening a port on the networking hardware device, wherein communication between the client computing device and the at least one IoT computing device is through the port. 4. The method of claim 1, further comprising:
encrypting, by the networking hardware device, outgoing data from the at least one IoT computing device according to the device security policies; transmitting, by the networking hardware device, the outgoing data that has been encrypted via a tunnel between the networking hardware device and another networking hardware device. 5. The method of claim 1, further comprising performing, by the networking hardware device, access control on incoming data to the at least one IoT computing device according to the device security policies. 6. The method of claim 1, further comprising decrypting, by the networking hardware device, incoming data according to the device security policies. 7. The method of claim 1, further comprising:
using the networking hardware device, allowing traffic between the client computing device and the at least one IoT computing device when the session is authenticated; using the networking hardware device, blocking the traffic between the client computing device and the at least one IoT computing device when the session is not authenticated. 8. One or more non-transitory machine-readable storage media storing one or more sequences of program instructions which, when executed by one or more computing devices, cause performing:
accessing, by a networking hardware device, identity awareness data for a plurality of client computing devices and device security policies of a plurality of IoT computing devices from at least one distributed data repository; authenticating, by the networking hardware device, a client computing device requesting access to at least one Internet of Things (IoT) computing device, based on the accessed identity awareness data; establishing, at the networking hardware device, firewall rules based on the accessed device security policies; creating, by the networking hardware device, a session for the authenticated client computing device to communicate with the at least one IoT computing device, wherein creating a session comprises posting information relating to the session as authentication session information to the at least one distributed data repository. 9. The one or more non-transitory machine-readable storage media of claim 8, wherein the identity awareness data includes identities of users and access policies of users, wherein authenticating the client computing device comprises using the identities of users to determine whether the client computing device has access through the networking hardware device and using the access policies of users to determine whether the client computing device has access to the at least one IoT computing device. 10. The one or more non-transitory machine-readable storage media of claim 8, wherein creating the session further comprises opening a port on the networking hardware device, wherein communication between the client computing device and the at least one IoT computing device is through the port. 11. The one or more non-transitory machine-readable storage media of claim 8, further comprising instructions that, when executed by one or more computing devices, cause:
encrypting, by the networking hardware device, outgoing data from the at least one IoT computing device according to the device security policies; transmitting, by the networking hardware device, the outgoing data that has been encrypted via a tunnel between the networking hardware device to another networking hardware device. 12. The one or more non-transitory machine-readable storage media of claim 8, further comprising instructions that, when executed by one or more computing devices, cause performing, by the networking hardware device, access control on incoming data to the at least one IoT device according to the device security policies. 13. The one or more non-transitory machine-readable storage media of claim 8, further comprising instructions that, when executed by one or more computing devices, cause decrypting, by the networking hardware device, incoming data according to the device security policies. 14. The one or more non-transitory machine-readable storage media of claim 8, further comprising instructions that, when executed by one or more computing devices, cause:
using the networking hardware device, allowing traffic between the client computing device and the at least one IoT computing device when the session is authenticated; using the networking hardware device, blocking the traffic between the client computing device and the at least one IoT computing device when the session is not authenticated. 15. A computer system comprising:
at least one distributed data repository; a networking hardware device communicatively coupled with the distributed data repository, wherein the networking hardware device comprises a second non-transitory data storage medium storing a second set of instructions which, when executed by the networking hardware device, cause:
accessing identity awareness data for a plurality of client computing devices and device security policies of a plurality of IoT computing devices from the at least one distributed data repository;
authenticating a client computing device requesting access to at least one Internet of Things (IoT) computing device, based on the accessed identity awareness data;
establishing firewall rules based on the accessed device security policies;
creating a session for the authenticated client computing device to communicate with the at least one IoT computing device, wherein creating a session comprises posting information relating to the session as authentication session information to the at least one distributed data repository. 16. The computer system of claim 15, wherein the identity awareness data includes identities of users and access policies of users, wherein authenticating the client computing device comprises using the identities of users to determine whether the client computing device has access through the networking hardware device and using the access policies of users to determine whether the client computing device has access to the at least one IoT computing device. 17. The computer system of claim 15, wherein creating the session further comprises opening a port on the networking hardware device, wherein communication between the client computing device and the at least one IoT computing device is through the port. 18. The computer system of claim 15, wherein the second non-transitory data storage medium storing the second set of instructions which, when executed by the networking hardware device, further cause:
encrypting outgoing data from the at least one IoT computing device according to the device security policies; transmitting the outgoing data that has been encrypted via a tunnel between the networking hardware device to another networking hardware device. 19. The computer system of claim 15, wherein the second non-transitory data storage medium storing the second set of instructions which, when executed by the networking hardware device, further cause:
performing access control on incoming data to the at least one IoT computing device according to the device security policies; decrypting the incoming data according to the device security policies. 20. The computer system of claim 15, wherein the second non-transitory data storage medium storing the second set of instructions which, when executed by the networking hardware device, further cause:
allowing traffic between the client computing device and the at least one IoT computing device when the session is authenticated; blocking the traffic between the client computing device and the at least one IoT computing device when the session is not authenticated. | 3,700 |
349,302 | 16,806,870 | 3,793 | Various systems, devices, and methods are provided for facilitating communication between a forecourt controller and a fuel dispenser. In certain aspects, a fuel controller translator is provided for translating commands transmitted between the forecourt controller and the fuel dispenser. For example, where the forecourt controller transmits commands that are compatible with the payment terminal, but not with the fuel controller, the fuel controller translator can translate the commands received from the forecourt controller into a format compatible with the fuel controller. Conversely, the fuel controller translator can translate commands received from the fuel controller into a format that is compatible with the forecourt controller. | 1. A fuel dispenser, comprising:
a payment terminal configured to process payment for fuel dispensed by the fuel dispenser; a fuel controller configured to control the dispensing of fuel; and a fuel controller translator configured to:
receive a command from a source external to the fuel dispenser, the command being in a first format that is compatible with one of the fuel controller and the payment terminal and is incompatible with the other of the fuel controller and the payment terminal,
determine a second format from among a plurality of possible second formats that is compatible with the other of the fuel controller and the payment terminal, and
transmit the command in the determined second format to the other of the fuel controller and the payment terminal. 2. The fuel dispenser of claim 1, further comprising a pump compartment with the fuel controller disposed therein; and
an electronics compartment with the payment terminal and the fuel controller translator disposed therein. 3. The fuel dispenser of claim 1, wherein the one of the fuel controller and the payment terminal is the payment terminal;
the other of the fuel controller and the payment terminal is the fuel controller; and determining the second format includes:
reading a conversion table stored in a memory, the conversion table including a plurality of entries, each of the entries corresponding to a different type of fuel controller, and
selecting a one of the plurality of entries that corresponds to a type of the fuel controller. 4. The fuel dispenser of claim 3, wherein the fuel controller translator is configured to retrieve from the memory the command in the determined second format. 5. The fuel dispenser of claim 1, wherein the one of the fuel controller and the payment terminal is the fuel controller;
the other of the fuel controller and the payment terminal is the payment terminal; and determining the second format includes:
reading a conversion table stored in a memory, the conversion table including a plurality of entries, each of the entries corresponding to a different type of payment terminal, and
selecting a one of the plurality of entries that corresponds to a type of the payment terminal. 6. The fuel dispenser of claim 5, wherein the fuel controller translator is configured to retrieve from the memory the command in the determined second format. 7. The fuel dispenser of claim 1, wherein the fuel controller translator is configured to:
after transmitting the command, receive data in the second format from the other of the fuel controller and the payment terminal; translate the data from the second format to the first format; and transmit the data in the first format to the source. 8. The fuel dispenser of claim 1, wherein the fuel controller translator includes at least one programmable processor. 9. The fuel dispenser of claim 1, wherein the source external to the fuel dispenser includes a forecourt controller. 10. The fuel dispenser of claim 1, wherein the source external to the fuel dispenser includes a point-of-sale system. 11. A fuel dispenser, comprising:
a pump compartment with fuel dispensing components disposed therein; a fuel controller configured to control dispensing of fuel by the fuel dispensing components; and a fuel controller translator configured to:
receive a command from a source external to the fuel dispenser, the command being in a first format that is compatible with one of the fuel controller and at least one of the fuel dispensing components and is incompatible with the other of the fuel controller and the at least one of the fuel dispensing components,
determine a second format from among a plurality of possible second formats that is compatible with the other of the fuel controller and the at least one of the fuel dispensing components, and
transmit the command in the determined second format to the other of the fuel controller and the at least one of the fuel dispensing components. 12. The fuel dispenser of claim 11, wherein the fuel dispensing components include a pump and a valve;
the fuel controller translator includes at least one programmable processor; and the source external to the fuel dispenser includes a point-of-sale system. 13. The fuel dispenser of claim 11, wherein the fuel controller translator is configured to:
after transmitting the command, receive data in the second format from the other of the fuel controller and the at least one of the fuel dispensing components; translate the data from the second format to the first format; and transmit the data in the first format to the source. 14. The fuel dispenser of claim 11, wherein determining the second format includes:
reading a conversion table stored in a memory, the conversion table including a plurality of entries; and selecting a one of the plurality of entries that corresponds to a type of the other of the fuel controller and the at least one of the fuel dispensing components. | Various systems, devices, and methods are provided for facilitating communication between a forecourt controller and a fuel dispenser. In certain aspects, a fuel controller translator is provided for translating commands transmitted between the forecourt controller and the fuel dispenser. For example, where the forecourt controller transmits commands that are compatible with the payment terminal, but not with the fuel controller, the fuel controller translator can translate the commands received from the forecourt controller into a format compatible with the fuel controller. Conversely, the fuel controller translator can translate commands received from the fuel controller into a format that is compatible with the forecourt controller.1. A fuel dispenser, comprising:
a payment terminal configured to process payment for fuel dispensed by the fuel dispenser; a fuel controller configured to control the dispensing of fuel; and a fuel controller translator configured to:
receive a command from a source external to the fuel dispenser, the command being in a first format that is compatible with one of the fuel controller and the payment terminal and is incompatible with the other of the fuel controller and the payment terminal,
determine a second format from among a plurality of possible second formats that is compatible with the other of the fuel controller and the payment terminal, and
transmit the command in the determined second format to the other of the fuel controller and the payment terminal. 2. The fuel dispenser of claim 1, further comprising a pump compartment with the fuel controller disposed therein; and
an electronics compartment with the payment terminal and the fuel controller translator disposed therein. 3. The fuel dispenser of claim 1, wherein the one of the fuel controller and the payment terminal is the payment terminal;
the other of the fuel controller and the payment terminal is the fuel controller; and determining the second format includes:
reading a conversion table stored in a memory, the conversion table including a plurality of entries, each of the entries corresponding to a different type of fuel controller, and
selecting a one of the plurality of entries that corresponds to a type of the fuel controller. 4. The fuel dispenser of claim 3, wherein the fuel controller translator is configured to retrieve from the memory the command in the determined second format. 5. The fuel dispenser of claim 1, wherein the one of the fuel controller and the payment terminal is the fuel controller;
the other of the fuel controller and the payment terminal is the payment terminal; and determining the second format includes:
reading a conversion table stored in a memory, the conversion table including a plurality of entries, each of the entries corresponding to a different type of payment terminal, and
selecting a one of the plurality of entries that corresponds to a type of the payment terminal. 6. The fuel dispenser of claim 5, wherein the fuel controller translator is configured to retrieve from the memory the command in the determined second format. 7. The fuel dispenser of claim 1, wherein the fuel controller translator is configured to:
after transmitting the command, receive data in the second format from the other of the fuel controller and the payment terminal; translate the data from the second format to the first format; and transmit the data in the first format to the source. 8. The fuel dispenser of claim 1, wherein the fuel controller translator includes at least one programmable processor. 9. The fuel dispenser of claim 1, wherein the source external to the fuel dispenser includes a forecourt controller. 10. The fuel dispenser of claim 1, wherein the source external to the fuel dispenser includes a point-of-sale system. 11. A fuel dispenser, comprising:
a pump compartment with fuel dispensing components disposed therein; a fuel controller configured to control dispensing of fuel by the fuel dispensing components; and a fuel controller translator configured to:
receive a command from a source external to the fuel dispenser, the command being in a first format that is compatible with one of the fuel controller and at least one of the fuel dispensing components and is incompatible with the other of the fuel controller and the at least one of the fuel dispensing components,
determine a second format from among a plurality of possible second formats that is compatible with the other of the fuel controller and the at least one of the fuel dispensing components, and
transmit the command in the determined second format to the other of the fuel controller and the at least one of the fuel dispensing components. 12. The fuel dispenser of claim 11, wherein the fuel dispensing components include a pump and a valve;
the fuel controller translator includes at least one programmable processor; and the source external to the fuel dispenser includes a point-of-sale system. 13. The fuel dispenser of claim 11, wherein the fuel controller translator is configured to:
after transmitting the command, receive data in the second format from the other of the fuel controller and the at least one of the fuel dispensing components; translate the data from the second format to the first format; and transmit the data in the first format to the source. 14. The fuel dispenser of claim 11, wherein determining the second format includes:
reading a conversion table stored in a memory, the conversion table including a plurality of entries; and selecting a one of the plurality of entries that corresponds to a type of the other of the fuel controller and the at least one of the fuel dispensing components. | 3,700 |
349,303 | 16,806,900 | 3,631 | An interlocking toy block display mount with a plurality of sides with multiple sides having mail interlocking members or female interlocking members disposed thereon. A plurality of bore holes pass through top, side and end sides of the mount along three axes and intersecting at the substantial center of the mount with a fastener inserted through one of the bore holes to secure the mount to a surface. | 1. An interlocking block mounting apparatus, comprising:
a plurality of sides; at least one male interlocking member disposed on at least one of the plurality of sides; at least one female interlocking member disposed on at least one of the plurality of sides; a first bore hole extending through the length of a first of the plurality of sides along a first axis; a second bore hole extending through the length of a second of the plurality of sides along a second axis; and a third bore hole extending through the length of a third of the plurality of sides along a third axis, wherein the at least one male interlocking member is sized to receive a corresponding object female interlocking member of an object for display, wherein the at least one female interlocking member is sized to receive a corresponding object male interlocking member of the object for display. 2. The interlocking block mounting apparatus of claim 1, wherein the first bore hole, the second bore hole and the third bore hole intersect at the substantial center of the interlocking block mounting apparatus. 3. The interlocking block mounting apparatus of claim 1, further comprising a cap corresponding to an opening of one of the first bore hole, the second bore hole and the third bore hole. 4. The interlocking block mounting apparatus of claim 1, wherein the interlocking block mounting apparatus is a rectangular cube. 5. The interlocking block mounting apparatus of claim 1, wherein the first side, the second side and the third side are constructed of plastic. 6. The interlocking block mounting apparatus of claim 1, further comprising a peg sized according to the length and diameter of at least one of the first, second and third bore holes. 7. The interlocking block mounting apparatus of claim 6, further comprising a fastener end disposed at an end of the peg. 8. The interlocking block mounting apparatus of claim 1, wherein the bore hole is sized according to one of a round cylinder, an oval cylinder, a rectangular cylinder, and an irregularly shaped cylinder. 9. The interlocking block mounting apparatus of claim 1, wherein the at least one male interlocking member and the at least one female interlocking are disposed on one of the plurality of sides. 10. The interlocking block mounting apparatus of claim 1, wherein the at least one male interlocking member is disposed on a first of the plurality of sides and the at least one female interlocking is disposed on a second of the plurality of sides. 11. The interlocking block mounting apparatus of claim 1, wherein the at least one male interlocking member and the at least one female interlocking are disposed on the plurality of sides. 12. The interlocking block mounting apparatus of claim 1, further comprising a bore hole insert having a diameter smaller than a diameter of at least one of the first bore hole, the second bore hole and the third bore hole. | An interlocking toy block display mount with a plurality of sides with multiple sides having mail interlocking members or female interlocking members disposed thereon. A plurality of bore holes pass through top, side and end sides of the mount along three axes and intersecting at the substantial center of the mount with a fastener inserted through one of the bore holes to secure the mount to a surface.1. An interlocking block mounting apparatus, comprising:
a plurality of sides; at least one male interlocking member disposed on at least one of the plurality of sides; at least one female interlocking member disposed on at least one of the plurality of sides; a first bore hole extending through the length of a first of the plurality of sides along a first axis; a second bore hole extending through the length of a second of the plurality of sides along a second axis; and a third bore hole extending through the length of a third of the plurality of sides along a third axis, wherein the at least one male interlocking member is sized to receive a corresponding object female interlocking member of an object for display, wherein the at least one female interlocking member is sized to receive a corresponding object male interlocking member of the object for display. 2. The interlocking block mounting apparatus of claim 1, wherein the first bore hole, the second bore hole and the third bore hole intersect at the substantial center of the interlocking block mounting apparatus. 3. The interlocking block mounting apparatus of claim 1, further comprising a cap corresponding to an opening of one of the first bore hole, the second bore hole and the third bore hole. 4. The interlocking block mounting apparatus of claim 1, wherein the interlocking block mounting apparatus is a rectangular cube. 5. The interlocking block mounting apparatus of claim 1, wherein the first side, the second side and the third side are constructed of plastic. 6. The interlocking block mounting apparatus of claim 1, further comprising a peg sized according to the length and diameter of at least one of the first, second and third bore holes. 7. The interlocking block mounting apparatus of claim 6, further comprising a fastener end disposed at an end of the peg. 8. The interlocking block mounting apparatus of claim 1, wherein the bore hole is sized according to one of a round cylinder, an oval cylinder, a rectangular cylinder, and an irregularly shaped cylinder. 9. The interlocking block mounting apparatus of claim 1, wherein the at least one male interlocking member and the at least one female interlocking are disposed on one of the plurality of sides. 10. The interlocking block mounting apparatus of claim 1, wherein the at least one male interlocking member is disposed on a first of the plurality of sides and the at least one female interlocking is disposed on a second of the plurality of sides. 11. The interlocking block mounting apparatus of claim 1, wherein the at least one male interlocking member and the at least one female interlocking are disposed on the plurality of sides. 12. The interlocking block mounting apparatus of claim 1, further comprising a bore hole insert having a diameter smaller than a diameter of at least one of the first bore hole, the second bore hole and the third bore hole. | 3,600 |
349,304 | 16,806,878 | 3,631 | An interlocking toy block display mount with a plurality of sides with multiple sides having mail interlocking members or female interlocking members disposed thereon. A plurality of bore holes pass through top, side and end sides of the mount along three axes and intersecting at the substantial center of the mount with a fastener inserted through one of the bore holes to secure the mount to a surface. | 1. An interlocking block mounting apparatus, comprising:
a plurality of sides; at least one male interlocking member disposed on at least one of the plurality of sides; at least one female interlocking member disposed on at least one of the plurality of sides; a first bore hole extending through the length of a first of the plurality of sides along a first axis; a second bore hole extending through the length of a second of the plurality of sides along a second axis; and a third bore hole extending through the length of a third of the plurality of sides along a third axis, wherein the at least one male interlocking member is sized to receive a corresponding object female interlocking member of an object for display, wherein the at least one female interlocking member is sized to receive a corresponding object male interlocking member of the object for display. 2. The interlocking block mounting apparatus of claim 1, wherein the first bore hole, the second bore hole and the third bore hole intersect at the substantial center of the interlocking block mounting apparatus. 3. The interlocking block mounting apparatus of claim 1, further comprising a cap corresponding to an opening of one of the first bore hole, the second bore hole and the third bore hole. 4. The interlocking block mounting apparatus of claim 1, wherein the interlocking block mounting apparatus is a rectangular cube. 5. The interlocking block mounting apparatus of claim 1, wherein the first side, the second side and the third side are constructed of plastic. 6. The interlocking block mounting apparatus of claim 1, further comprising a peg sized according to the length and diameter of at least one of the first, second and third bore holes. 7. The interlocking block mounting apparatus of claim 6, further comprising a fastener end disposed at an end of the peg. 8. The interlocking block mounting apparatus of claim 1, wherein the bore hole is sized according to one of a round cylinder, an oval cylinder, a rectangular cylinder, and an irregularly shaped cylinder. 9. The interlocking block mounting apparatus of claim 1, wherein the at least one male interlocking member and the at least one female interlocking are disposed on one of the plurality of sides. 10. The interlocking block mounting apparatus of claim 1, wherein the at least one male interlocking member is disposed on a first of the plurality of sides and the at least one female interlocking is disposed on a second of the plurality of sides. 11. The interlocking block mounting apparatus of claim 1, wherein the at least one male interlocking member and the at least one female interlocking are disposed on the plurality of sides. 12. The interlocking block mounting apparatus of claim 1, further comprising a bore hole insert having a diameter smaller than a diameter of at least one of the first bore hole, the second bore hole and the third bore hole. | An interlocking toy block display mount with a plurality of sides with multiple sides having mail interlocking members or female interlocking members disposed thereon. A plurality of bore holes pass through top, side and end sides of the mount along three axes and intersecting at the substantial center of the mount with a fastener inserted through one of the bore holes to secure the mount to a surface.1. An interlocking block mounting apparatus, comprising:
a plurality of sides; at least one male interlocking member disposed on at least one of the plurality of sides; at least one female interlocking member disposed on at least one of the plurality of sides; a first bore hole extending through the length of a first of the plurality of sides along a first axis; a second bore hole extending through the length of a second of the plurality of sides along a second axis; and a third bore hole extending through the length of a third of the plurality of sides along a third axis, wherein the at least one male interlocking member is sized to receive a corresponding object female interlocking member of an object for display, wherein the at least one female interlocking member is sized to receive a corresponding object male interlocking member of the object for display. 2. The interlocking block mounting apparatus of claim 1, wherein the first bore hole, the second bore hole and the third bore hole intersect at the substantial center of the interlocking block mounting apparatus. 3. The interlocking block mounting apparatus of claim 1, further comprising a cap corresponding to an opening of one of the first bore hole, the second bore hole and the third bore hole. 4. The interlocking block mounting apparatus of claim 1, wherein the interlocking block mounting apparatus is a rectangular cube. 5. The interlocking block mounting apparatus of claim 1, wherein the first side, the second side and the third side are constructed of plastic. 6. The interlocking block mounting apparatus of claim 1, further comprising a peg sized according to the length and diameter of at least one of the first, second and third bore holes. 7. The interlocking block mounting apparatus of claim 6, further comprising a fastener end disposed at an end of the peg. 8. The interlocking block mounting apparatus of claim 1, wherein the bore hole is sized according to one of a round cylinder, an oval cylinder, a rectangular cylinder, and an irregularly shaped cylinder. 9. The interlocking block mounting apparatus of claim 1, wherein the at least one male interlocking member and the at least one female interlocking are disposed on one of the plurality of sides. 10. The interlocking block mounting apparatus of claim 1, wherein the at least one male interlocking member is disposed on a first of the plurality of sides and the at least one female interlocking is disposed on a second of the plurality of sides. 11. The interlocking block mounting apparatus of claim 1, wherein the at least one male interlocking member and the at least one female interlocking are disposed on the plurality of sides. 12. The interlocking block mounting apparatus of claim 1, further comprising a bore hole insert having a diameter smaller than a diameter of at least one of the first bore hole, the second bore hole and the third bore hole. | 3,600 |
349,305 | 16,806,898 | 3,631 | A display panel includes: an active area and a peripheral area adjacent to the active area, wherein the active area includes a display area including a plurality of emitting pixels and a non-display area including a plurality of non-emitting pixels, an emitting pixel of the plurality of emitting pixels includes a light-emitting element, and a non-emitting pixel of the non-emitting pixels does not include any light-emitting element or includes a pseudo-light-emitting element that is not capable of emitting light. | 1. A display panel comprising
an active area and a peripheral area adjacent to the active area, wherein the active area comprises a display area including a plurality of emitting pixels and a non-display area including a plurality of non-emitting pixels, an emitting pixel of the plurality of emitting pixels comprises a light-emitting element, and a non-emitting pixel of the plurality of the non-emitting pixels does not comprise any light-emitting element. | A display panel includes: an active area and a peripheral area adjacent to the active area, wherein the active area includes a display area including a plurality of emitting pixels and a non-display area including a plurality of non-emitting pixels, an emitting pixel of the plurality of emitting pixels includes a light-emitting element, and a non-emitting pixel of the non-emitting pixels does not include any light-emitting element or includes a pseudo-light-emitting element that is not capable of emitting light.1. A display panel comprising
an active area and a peripheral area adjacent to the active area, wherein the active area comprises a display area including a plurality of emitting pixels and a non-display area including a plurality of non-emitting pixels, an emitting pixel of the plurality of emitting pixels comprises a light-emitting element, and a non-emitting pixel of the plurality of the non-emitting pixels does not comprise any light-emitting element. | 3,600 |
349,306 | 16,806,854 | 3,631 | Some embodiments of the invention provide a three-dimensional (3D) circuit that is formed by stacking two or more integrated circuit (IC) dies to at least partially overlap and to share one or more interconnect layers that distribute power, clock and/or data-bus signals. The shared interconnect layers include interconnect segments that carry power, clock and/or data-bus signals. In some embodiments, the shared interconnect layers are higher level interconnect layers (e.g., the top interconnect layer of each IC die). In some embodiments, the stacked IC dies of the 3D circuit include first and second IC dies. The first die includes a first semiconductor substrate and a first set of interconnect layers defined above the first semiconductor substrate. Similarly, the second IC die includes a second semiconductor substrate and a second set of interconnect layers defined above the second semiconductor substrate. As further described below, the first and second dies in some embodiments are placed in a face-to-face arrangement (e.g., a vertically stacked arrangement) that has the first and second set of interconnect layers facing each other. In some embodiments, a subset of one or more interconnect layers of the second set interconnect layers of the second die has interconnect wiring that carries power, clock and/or data-bus signals that are supplied to the first IC die. | 1-20. (canceled) 21. A method of fabricating a three-dimensional (3D) circuit, the method comprising:
selecting (i) a first integrated circuit (IC) die comprising a first semiconductor substrate and a first set of interconnect layers defined on top of the first semiconductor substrate, and (ii) a second IC die comprising a second semiconductor substrate and a second set of interconnect layers defined on top of the second semiconductor substrate, said first and second sets of interconnect layers having similar sets of alternating preferred wiring directions; rotating the second die by 90 degrees; and face-to-face mounting the first IC die and second dies so that an outermost interconnect layer of the first die has a preferred wiring direction that is orthogonal to the preferred wiring direction of an outermost interconnect layer of the second die. 22. The method of claim 21, wherein said rotation ensures that the preferred wiring directions of the outermost layers of the two dies are orthogonal with respect to each other. 23. The method of claim 21, wherein
each of the first and second sets of interconnect layers has N interconnect layers, the preferred wiring direction of each layer M in the first set of interconnect layers matches the preferred wiring direction of a corresponding layer M in the second set of interconnect layers, and N and M are integers. 24. The method of claim 21 further comprising establishing a plurality of connections between the outermost layers of the first and second sets of interconnect layers. 25. The method of claim 24, wherein the plurality of connections between the first and second sets of interconnect layers comprise a plurality of direct bonded connections. 26. The method of claim 25, wherein the first and second dies are bonded to each other across silicon oxide or silicon nitride surfaces. 27. The method of claim 21, wherein the plurality of connections between the first and second sets of interconnect layers comprise a plurality of vias, each via bonding a conductive pad on an interconnect layer of the first die with a conductive pad on an interconnect layer of the second die. 28. The method of claim 21, wherein the first and second dies are fabricated with a common or partially common set of masks as the first and second dies implement one IC design. 29. The method of claim 21, wherein the first and second dies have orthogonal crystalline directions after the first and second dies have been face-to-face mounted. 30. The method of claim 21, wherein the second die is a passive interposer. 31. The method of claim 21, wherein the preferred wiring directions are horizontal and vertical wiring directions. 32. A method of fabricating a three-dimensional (3D) circuit, the method comprising:
selecting a first integrated circuit (IC) die comprising a first semiconductor substrate and a first set of interconnect layers defined on top of the first semiconductor substrate; selecting a second IC die comprising a second semiconductor substrate and a second set of interconnect layers defined on top of the second semiconductor substrate face-to-face mounting the first IC die and second dies so that an outermost interconnect layer of the first die has a preferred wiring direction that is orthogonal to the preferred wiring direction of an outermost interconnect layer of the second die. 33. The method of claim 32, wherein
the first set of interconnect layers has N interconnect layers while the second set of interconnect layers has N+1 interconnect layers, N is an integer, and each Mth layer in the first N layers of the first set of interconnect layers has the same preferred wiring direction as the Mth layer in the first N layers of the second set of interconnect layers. 34. The method of claim 32, wherein the first set of interconnect layers has N interconnect layers and the second set of interconnect layers has N interconnect layers, wherein N is an integer. 35. The method of claim 32 further comprising establishing a plurality of connections between the outermost layers of the first and second sets of interconnect layers. 36. The method of claim 35, wherein the plurality of connections between the first and second sets of interconnect layers comprise a plurality of direct bonded connections. 37. The method of claim 36, wherein the first and second dies are bonded to each other across silicon oxide or silicon nitride surfaces. 38. The method of claim 32, wherein the plurality of connections between the first and second sets of interconnect layers comprise a plurality of vias, each via bonding a conductive pad on an interconnect layer of the first die with a conductive pad on an interconnect layer of the second die. 39. The method of claim 32, wherein the first and second dies are fabricated with a common or partially common set of masks as the first and second dies implement one IC design. 40. The method of claim 32, wherein the first and second dies have orthogonal crystalline directions after the first and second dies have been face-to-face mounted. 41. The method of claim 32, wherein the second die is a passive interposer. 42. The method of claim 32, wherein the preferred wiring directions are horizontal and vertical wiring directions. | Some embodiments of the invention provide a three-dimensional (3D) circuit that is formed by stacking two or more integrated circuit (IC) dies to at least partially overlap and to share one or more interconnect layers that distribute power, clock and/or data-bus signals. The shared interconnect layers include interconnect segments that carry power, clock and/or data-bus signals. In some embodiments, the shared interconnect layers are higher level interconnect layers (e.g., the top interconnect layer of each IC die). In some embodiments, the stacked IC dies of the 3D circuit include first and second IC dies. The first die includes a first semiconductor substrate and a first set of interconnect layers defined above the first semiconductor substrate. Similarly, the second IC die includes a second semiconductor substrate and a second set of interconnect layers defined above the second semiconductor substrate. As further described below, the first and second dies in some embodiments are placed in a face-to-face arrangement (e.g., a vertically stacked arrangement) that has the first and second set of interconnect layers facing each other. In some embodiments, a subset of one or more interconnect layers of the second set interconnect layers of the second die has interconnect wiring that carries power, clock and/or data-bus signals that are supplied to the first IC die.1-20. (canceled) 21. A method of fabricating a three-dimensional (3D) circuit, the method comprising:
selecting (i) a first integrated circuit (IC) die comprising a first semiconductor substrate and a first set of interconnect layers defined on top of the first semiconductor substrate, and (ii) a second IC die comprising a second semiconductor substrate and a second set of interconnect layers defined on top of the second semiconductor substrate, said first and second sets of interconnect layers having similar sets of alternating preferred wiring directions; rotating the second die by 90 degrees; and face-to-face mounting the first IC die and second dies so that an outermost interconnect layer of the first die has a preferred wiring direction that is orthogonal to the preferred wiring direction of an outermost interconnect layer of the second die. 22. The method of claim 21, wherein said rotation ensures that the preferred wiring directions of the outermost layers of the two dies are orthogonal with respect to each other. 23. The method of claim 21, wherein
each of the first and second sets of interconnect layers has N interconnect layers, the preferred wiring direction of each layer M in the first set of interconnect layers matches the preferred wiring direction of a corresponding layer M in the second set of interconnect layers, and N and M are integers. 24. The method of claim 21 further comprising establishing a plurality of connections between the outermost layers of the first and second sets of interconnect layers. 25. The method of claim 24, wherein the plurality of connections between the first and second sets of interconnect layers comprise a plurality of direct bonded connections. 26. The method of claim 25, wherein the first and second dies are bonded to each other across silicon oxide or silicon nitride surfaces. 27. The method of claim 21, wherein the plurality of connections between the first and second sets of interconnect layers comprise a plurality of vias, each via bonding a conductive pad on an interconnect layer of the first die with a conductive pad on an interconnect layer of the second die. 28. The method of claim 21, wherein the first and second dies are fabricated with a common or partially common set of masks as the first and second dies implement one IC design. 29. The method of claim 21, wherein the first and second dies have orthogonal crystalline directions after the first and second dies have been face-to-face mounted. 30. The method of claim 21, wherein the second die is a passive interposer. 31. The method of claim 21, wherein the preferred wiring directions are horizontal and vertical wiring directions. 32. A method of fabricating a three-dimensional (3D) circuit, the method comprising:
selecting a first integrated circuit (IC) die comprising a first semiconductor substrate and a first set of interconnect layers defined on top of the first semiconductor substrate; selecting a second IC die comprising a second semiconductor substrate and a second set of interconnect layers defined on top of the second semiconductor substrate face-to-face mounting the first IC die and second dies so that an outermost interconnect layer of the first die has a preferred wiring direction that is orthogonal to the preferred wiring direction of an outermost interconnect layer of the second die. 33. The method of claim 32, wherein
the first set of interconnect layers has N interconnect layers while the second set of interconnect layers has N+1 interconnect layers, N is an integer, and each Mth layer in the first N layers of the first set of interconnect layers has the same preferred wiring direction as the Mth layer in the first N layers of the second set of interconnect layers. 34. The method of claim 32, wherein the first set of interconnect layers has N interconnect layers and the second set of interconnect layers has N interconnect layers, wherein N is an integer. 35. The method of claim 32 further comprising establishing a plurality of connections between the outermost layers of the first and second sets of interconnect layers. 36. The method of claim 35, wherein the plurality of connections between the first and second sets of interconnect layers comprise a plurality of direct bonded connections. 37. The method of claim 36, wherein the first and second dies are bonded to each other across silicon oxide or silicon nitride surfaces. 38. The method of claim 32, wherein the plurality of connections between the first and second sets of interconnect layers comprise a plurality of vias, each via bonding a conductive pad on an interconnect layer of the first die with a conductive pad on an interconnect layer of the second die. 39. The method of claim 32, wherein the first and second dies are fabricated with a common or partially common set of masks as the first and second dies implement one IC design. 40. The method of claim 32, wherein the first and second dies have orthogonal crystalline directions after the first and second dies have been face-to-face mounted. 41. The method of claim 32, wherein the second die is a passive interposer. 42. The method of claim 32, wherein the preferred wiring directions are horizontal and vertical wiring directions. | 3,600 |
349,307 | 16,806,892 | 3,631 | A multilayer coil component includes a multilayer body that is formed by stacking a plurality of insulating layers on top of one another and that has a coil built into the inside thereof; and a first outer electrode and a second outer electrode that are electrically connected to the coil. The coil is formed by electrically connecting a plurality of coil conductors, which are stacked together with insulating layers, to one another. A first main surface of the multilayer body is a mounting surface. A stacking direction of the multilayer body and an axial direction of the coil are parallel to the mounting surface. The coil includes a plurality of different coil conductors having different coil diameters, and shortest distances from the first main surface to the coil conductors are identical for all of the plurality of different coil conductors. | 1. A multilayer coil component comprising:
a multilayer body that is formed by stacking a plurality of insulating layers on top of one another and that has a coil built into the inside thereof, the coil being formed by electrically connecting a plurality of coil conductors, which are stacked together with insulating layers, to one another, and the coil including a plurality of different coil conductors having different coil diameters, and the multilayer body has
a first end surface and a second end surface, which face each other in a length direction,
a first main surface and a second main surface, which face each other in a height direction perpendicular to the length direction, the first main surface being a mounting surface, a stacking direction of the multilayer body and an axial direction of the coil being parallel to the mounting surface, and shortest distances from the first main surface to the coil conductors being identical for all of the plurality of different coil conductors, and
a first side surface and a second side surface, which face each other in a width direction perpendicular to the length direction and the height direction; and
a first outer electrode and a second outer electrode that are electrically connected to the coil, the first outer electrode being arranged so as to cover part of the first end surface and so as to extend from the first end surface and cover part of the first main surface, and the second outer electrode being arranged so as to cover part of the second end surface and so as to extend from the second end surface and cover part of the first main surface. 2. The multilayer coil component according to claim 1, wherein
the coil includes at least one coil conductor group consisting of a plurality of the coil conductors which have identical diameters. 3. The multilayer coil component according to claim 2, wherein
the coil includes a plurality of the coil conductor groups, which each have a different coil diameter, and the coil diameters of the coil conductor groups decrease in a direction from the first end surface toward the second end surface. 4. The multilayer coil component according to claim 1, further comprising:
a first connection conductor and a second connection conductor inside the multilayer body; wherein the first connection conductor is connected in a straight line between a part of the first outer electrode that covers the first end surface and the coil conductor that faces the first outer electrode, and the second connection conductor is connected in a straight line between a part of the second outer electrode that covers the second end surface and the coil conductor that faces the second outer electrode. 5. The multilayer coil component according to claim 4, wherein
the first connection conductor and the second connection conductor overlap the coil conductors in a plan view from the stacking direction and are located closer to the mounting surface than all center axes of the coil conductors. 6. The multilayer coil component according to claim 2, further comprising:
a first connection conductor and a second connection conductor inside the multilayer body; wherein the first connection conductor is connected in a straight line between a part of the first outer electrode that covers the first end surface and the coil conductor that faces the first outer electrode, and the second connection conductor is connected in a straight line between a part of the second outer electrode that covers the second end surface and the coil conductor that faces the second outer electrode. 7. The multilayer coil component according to claim 3, further comprising:
a first connection conductor and a second connection conductor inside the multilayer body; wherein the first connection conductor is connected in a straight line between a part of the first outer electrode that covers the first end surface and the coil conductor that faces the first outer electrode, and the second connection conductor is connected in a straight line between a part of the second outer electrode that covers the second end surface and the coil conductor that faces the second outer electrode. 8. The multilayer coil component according to claim 6, wherein
the first connection conductor and the second connection conductor overlap the coil conductors in a plan view from the stacking direction and are located closer to the mounting surface than all center axes of the coil conductors. 9. The multilayer coil component according to claim 7, wherein
the first connection conductor and the second connection conductor overlap the coil conductors in a plan view from the stacking direction and are located closer to the mounting surface than all center axes of the coil conductors. | A multilayer coil component includes a multilayer body that is formed by stacking a plurality of insulating layers on top of one another and that has a coil built into the inside thereof; and a first outer electrode and a second outer electrode that are electrically connected to the coil. The coil is formed by electrically connecting a plurality of coil conductors, which are stacked together with insulating layers, to one another. A first main surface of the multilayer body is a mounting surface. A stacking direction of the multilayer body and an axial direction of the coil are parallel to the mounting surface. The coil includes a plurality of different coil conductors having different coil diameters, and shortest distances from the first main surface to the coil conductors are identical for all of the plurality of different coil conductors.1. A multilayer coil component comprising:
a multilayer body that is formed by stacking a plurality of insulating layers on top of one another and that has a coil built into the inside thereof, the coil being formed by electrically connecting a plurality of coil conductors, which are stacked together with insulating layers, to one another, and the coil including a plurality of different coil conductors having different coil diameters, and the multilayer body has
a first end surface and a second end surface, which face each other in a length direction,
a first main surface and a second main surface, which face each other in a height direction perpendicular to the length direction, the first main surface being a mounting surface, a stacking direction of the multilayer body and an axial direction of the coil being parallel to the mounting surface, and shortest distances from the first main surface to the coil conductors being identical for all of the plurality of different coil conductors, and
a first side surface and a second side surface, which face each other in a width direction perpendicular to the length direction and the height direction; and
a first outer electrode and a second outer electrode that are electrically connected to the coil, the first outer electrode being arranged so as to cover part of the first end surface and so as to extend from the first end surface and cover part of the first main surface, and the second outer electrode being arranged so as to cover part of the second end surface and so as to extend from the second end surface and cover part of the first main surface. 2. The multilayer coil component according to claim 1, wherein
the coil includes at least one coil conductor group consisting of a plurality of the coil conductors which have identical diameters. 3. The multilayer coil component according to claim 2, wherein
the coil includes a plurality of the coil conductor groups, which each have a different coil diameter, and the coil diameters of the coil conductor groups decrease in a direction from the first end surface toward the second end surface. 4. The multilayer coil component according to claim 1, further comprising:
a first connection conductor and a second connection conductor inside the multilayer body; wherein the first connection conductor is connected in a straight line between a part of the first outer electrode that covers the first end surface and the coil conductor that faces the first outer electrode, and the second connection conductor is connected in a straight line between a part of the second outer electrode that covers the second end surface and the coil conductor that faces the second outer electrode. 5. The multilayer coil component according to claim 4, wherein
the first connection conductor and the second connection conductor overlap the coil conductors in a plan view from the stacking direction and are located closer to the mounting surface than all center axes of the coil conductors. 6. The multilayer coil component according to claim 2, further comprising:
a first connection conductor and a second connection conductor inside the multilayer body; wherein the first connection conductor is connected in a straight line between a part of the first outer electrode that covers the first end surface and the coil conductor that faces the first outer electrode, and the second connection conductor is connected in a straight line between a part of the second outer electrode that covers the second end surface and the coil conductor that faces the second outer electrode. 7. The multilayer coil component according to claim 3, further comprising:
a first connection conductor and a second connection conductor inside the multilayer body; wherein the first connection conductor is connected in a straight line between a part of the first outer electrode that covers the first end surface and the coil conductor that faces the first outer electrode, and the second connection conductor is connected in a straight line between a part of the second outer electrode that covers the second end surface and the coil conductor that faces the second outer electrode. 8. The multilayer coil component according to claim 6, wherein
the first connection conductor and the second connection conductor overlap the coil conductors in a plan view from the stacking direction and are located closer to the mounting surface than all center axes of the coil conductors. 9. The multilayer coil component according to claim 7, wherein
the first connection conductor and the second connection conductor overlap the coil conductors in a plan view from the stacking direction and are located closer to the mounting surface than all center axes of the coil conductors. | 3,600 |
349,308 | 16,806,864 | 3,631 | A surface cleaning apparatus comprises an air treatment member having an air treatment chamber. A moveable member is positioned in the air treatment chamber. A driving assembly is drivingly connected to the moveable member wherein an end wall of the air treatment chamber is openable in response to the moveable member being longitudinally translated through at least the portion of the air treatment chamber. | 1. A surface cleaning apparatus comprising:
(a) an air flow path extending from a dirty air inlet to a clean air outlet; (b) an air treatment member having an air treatment chamber positioned in the air flow path, the air treatment chamber comprising an air treatment chamber air inlet, an air treatment chamber air outlet, an openable first end, a longitudinally spaced apart second end having the air treatment chamber air outlet and a longitudinally extending sidewall, wherein the air treatment chamber air outlet comprises a longitudinally extending porous member having a longitudinally extending porous sidewall; (c) a suction motor positioned in the air flow path upstream of the clean air outlet; (d) a moveable member positioned in the air treatment chamber, the moveable member comprising at least one of the porous member and a cleaning member positioned in the air treatment chamber between the sidewall of the air treatment chamber and the porous sidewall, wherein the moveable member is moveable from an operating position in which the moveable member is positioned towards the second end and a cleaned position in which the moveable member is translated longitudinally away from the second end; and, (e) a handle drivingly connected to the moveable member whereby the moveable member is longitudinally translated through at least a portion of the chamber, wherein the first end is openable in response to the moveable member being longitudinally translatable through at least the portion of the chamber. 2. The surface cleaning apparatus of claim 1 further comprising an openable lock operable between a locked position in which the first end is secured in a closed position and an open position in which the first end is moveable to an open position, and the lock is moveable from the locked position to the open position in response to the moveable member being longitudinally translatable through at least the portion of the chamber. 3. The surface cleaning apparatus of claim 2 wherein the driving linkage operably engages the lock to move the lock from the locked position to the open position as the moveable member is longitudinally translated through at least the portion of the chamber. 4. The surface cleaning apparatus of claim 3 wherein the driving linkage comprises a longitudinally extending drive rod. 5. The surface cleaning apparatus of claim 4 wherein the driving linkage operably engages the first end to open the first end as the moveable member is longitudinally translated through the chamber. 6. The surface cleaning apparatus of claim 3 wherein the driving linkage operably engages the first end to open the first end as the moveable member is longitudinally translated through at least the portion of the chamber. 7. The surface cleaning apparatus of claim 3 wherein the moveable member comprises the cleaning member and the cleaning member operably engages the first end to open the first end as the cleaning member is longitudinally translated through at least the portion of the chamber. 8. The surface cleaning apparatus of claim 3 wherein the moveable member comprises the porous member and the porous member operably engages the first end to open the first end as the porous member is longitudinally translated through at least the portion of the chamber. 9. The surface cleaning apparatus of claim 2 wherein the moveable member comprises the cleaning member and the cleaning member operably engages the lock to move the lock from the locked position to the open position as the cleaning member is longitudinally translated through at least the portion of the chamber. 10. The surface cleaning apparatus of claim 9 wherein the cleaning member operably engages the first end to open the first end as the cleaning member is longitudinally translated through at least the portion of the chamber. 11. The surface cleaning apparatus of claim 2 wherein the moveable member comprises the porous member and the porous member operably engages the lock to move the lock from the locked position to the open position as the porous member is longitudinally translated through at least the portion of the chamber. 12. The surface cleaning apparatus of claim 11 wherein the porous member operably engages the first end to open the first end as the porous member is longitudinally translated through at least the portion of the chamber. 13. The surface cleaning apparatus of claim 1 wherein, in the cleaned position, at least a portion of the moveable member is exterior of the air treatment chamber. 14. The surface cleaning apparatus of claim 1 wherein the moveable member comprises the cleaning member and the cleaning member is moveable from an operating position in which the cleaning member abuts the second end and a cleaned position in which the moveable member is translated longitudinally away from the second end. 15. The surface cleaning apparatus of claim 1 wherein the cleaning member comprises an annular member. 16. The surface cleaning apparatus of claim 15 wherein the annular member has a plurality of finger members depending longitudinally therefrom. 17. The surface cleaning apparatus of claim 16 wherein the finger members depend from a radially outward portion of the annular member. 18. The surface cleaning apparatus of claim 1 wherein the air treatment member comprises a cyclone having a centrally positioned cyclone axis of rotation. 19. The surface cleaning apparatus of claim 1 wherein the porous member is tapered towards the openable first end. | A surface cleaning apparatus comprises an air treatment member having an air treatment chamber. A moveable member is positioned in the air treatment chamber. A driving assembly is drivingly connected to the moveable member wherein an end wall of the air treatment chamber is openable in response to the moveable member being longitudinally translated through at least the portion of the air treatment chamber.1. A surface cleaning apparatus comprising:
(a) an air flow path extending from a dirty air inlet to a clean air outlet; (b) an air treatment member having an air treatment chamber positioned in the air flow path, the air treatment chamber comprising an air treatment chamber air inlet, an air treatment chamber air outlet, an openable first end, a longitudinally spaced apart second end having the air treatment chamber air outlet and a longitudinally extending sidewall, wherein the air treatment chamber air outlet comprises a longitudinally extending porous member having a longitudinally extending porous sidewall; (c) a suction motor positioned in the air flow path upstream of the clean air outlet; (d) a moveable member positioned in the air treatment chamber, the moveable member comprising at least one of the porous member and a cleaning member positioned in the air treatment chamber between the sidewall of the air treatment chamber and the porous sidewall, wherein the moveable member is moveable from an operating position in which the moveable member is positioned towards the second end and a cleaned position in which the moveable member is translated longitudinally away from the second end; and, (e) a handle drivingly connected to the moveable member whereby the moveable member is longitudinally translated through at least a portion of the chamber, wherein the first end is openable in response to the moveable member being longitudinally translatable through at least the portion of the chamber. 2. The surface cleaning apparatus of claim 1 further comprising an openable lock operable between a locked position in which the first end is secured in a closed position and an open position in which the first end is moveable to an open position, and the lock is moveable from the locked position to the open position in response to the moveable member being longitudinally translatable through at least the portion of the chamber. 3. The surface cleaning apparatus of claim 2 wherein the driving linkage operably engages the lock to move the lock from the locked position to the open position as the moveable member is longitudinally translated through at least the portion of the chamber. 4. The surface cleaning apparatus of claim 3 wherein the driving linkage comprises a longitudinally extending drive rod. 5. The surface cleaning apparatus of claim 4 wherein the driving linkage operably engages the first end to open the first end as the moveable member is longitudinally translated through the chamber. 6. The surface cleaning apparatus of claim 3 wherein the driving linkage operably engages the first end to open the first end as the moveable member is longitudinally translated through at least the portion of the chamber. 7. The surface cleaning apparatus of claim 3 wherein the moveable member comprises the cleaning member and the cleaning member operably engages the first end to open the first end as the cleaning member is longitudinally translated through at least the portion of the chamber. 8. The surface cleaning apparatus of claim 3 wherein the moveable member comprises the porous member and the porous member operably engages the first end to open the first end as the porous member is longitudinally translated through at least the portion of the chamber. 9. The surface cleaning apparatus of claim 2 wherein the moveable member comprises the cleaning member and the cleaning member operably engages the lock to move the lock from the locked position to the open position as the cleaning member is longitudinally translated through at least the portion of the chamber. 10. The surface cleaning apparatus of claim 9 wherein the cleaning member operably engages the first end to open the first end as the cleaning member is longitudinally translated through at least the portion of the chamber. 11. The surface cleaning apparatus of claim 2 wherein the moveable member comprises the porous member and the porous member operably engages the lock to move the lock from the locked position to the open position as the porous member is longitudinally translated through at least the portion of the chamber. 12. The surface cleaning apparatus of claim 11 wherein the porous member operably engages the first end to open the first end as the porous member is longitudinally translated through at least the portion of the chamber. 13. The surface cleaning apparatus of claim 1 wherein, in the cleaned position, at least a portion of the moveable member is exterior of the air treatment chamber. 14. The surface cleaning apparatus of claim 1 wherein the moveable member comprises the cleaning member and the cleaning member is moveable from an operating position in which the cleaning member abuts the second end and a cleaned position in which the moveable member is translated longitudinally away from the second end. 15. The surface cleaning apparatus of claim 1 wherein the cleaning member comprises an annular member. 16. The surface cleaning apparatus of claim 15 wherein the annular member has a plurality of finger members depending longitudinally therefrom. 17. The surface cleaning apparatus of claim 16 wherein the finger members depend from a radially outward portion of the annular member. 18. The surface cleaning apparatus of claim 1 wherein the air treatment member comprises a cyclone having a centrally positioned cyclone axis of rotation. 19. The surface cleaning apparatus of claim 1 wherein the porous member is tapered towards the openable first end. | 3,600 |
349,309 | 16,806,825 | 3,631 | Methods, systems, and devices for wireless communications are described. The described techniques enable a first wireless device (e.g., an integrated access and backhaul (IAB) node in an IAB system) or a network entity (e.g., a centralized unit (CU) in the IAB system) to select a set of wireless devices for communication. The first wireless device, the CU, or both may select the set of wireless devices for communication based on a pathloss mode of the first wireless device, whether an angular separation between a group of nodes (e.g., one or more of the set of wireless devices) is less than an angular separation threshold, or both. The first wireless device may communicate with the set of wireless devices with one or more communications beams. For example, the device may communicate with multiple wireless devices using a single communication beam if the angular separation between the multiple devices is relatively low. | 1. A method for wireless communications at a first wireless device, comprising:
selecting a set of wireless devices as communication candidates based at least in part on a first mode for the first wireless device, wherein the set of wireless devices comprises at least two wireless devices with an angular separation with reference to the first wireless device that is less than an angular separation threshold associated with the first mode; reporting, to a network entity, a candidate list comprising the set of wireless devices; receiving, from the network entity, a subset of the set of wireless devices based at least in part on the candidate list; and communicating with the subset of the set of wireless devices using one or more communication beams, wherein the communicating comprises communicating with the at least two wireless devices using a single communication beam of the one or more communication beams based at least in part on the angular separation being less than the angular separation threshold. 2. The method of claim 1, further comprising:
receiving, from the network entity, an indication of the angular separation threshold associated with the first mode. 3. The method of claim 1, further comprising:
discovering a plurality of wireless devices; measuring an angle of arrival or angle of departure or both for communications with each wireless device of the plurality of wireless devices; and determining angular separations for one or more pairs of wireless devices of the plurality of wireless devices based at least in part on the measured angle of arrival or angle of departure or both, wherein the selecting is based at least in part on the determined angular separations and the set of wireless devices is a subset of the plurality of wireless devices. 4. The method of claim 1, wherein the selecting further comprises:
selecting the set of wireless devices as communication candidates based at least in part on received power measurements for the set of wireless devices. 5. The method of claim 1, wherein the reporting the candidate list further comprises:
reporting, to the network entity, a set of spatial separation metrics indicating with which wireless devices of the set of wireless devices the first wireless device supports communication using a same communication beam. 6. The method of claim 1, wherein the reporting the candidate list further comprises:
reporting, to the network entity, one or more groups of wireless devices of the set of wireless devices, wherein each group of the one or more groups of wireless devices comprises a plurality of wireless devices with which the first wireless device supports communication using a same communication beam. 7. The method of claim 1, wherein the communicating with the at least two wireless devices using the single communication beam comprises:
frequency division multiplexing communications with the at least two wireless devices. 8. The method of claim 1, further comprising:
activating the first mode for the first wireless device based at least in part on a measurement, the first mode comprising a high pathloss mode. 9. The method of claim 1, further comprising:
deactivating the first mode for the first wireless device based at least in part on a measurement; selecting an updated set of wireless devices as communication candidates based at least in part on the deactivated first mode, wherein each wireless device of the updated set of wireless devices has an angular separation with each other wireless device of the updated set of wireless devices with reference to the first wireless device that is greater than an angular separation threshold associated with the deactivated first mode; and reporting, to the network entity, an updated candidate list comprising the updated set of wireless devices. 10. The method of claim 9, wherein the angular separation threshold associated with the activated first mode is equal to the angular separation threshold associated with the deactivated first mode. 11. The method of claim 1, wherein each communication beam of the one or more communication beams corresponds to a different radio frequency chain of the first wireless device. 12. The method of claim 11, further comprising:
determining a number of communication beams for the communicating with the subset of the set of wireless devices based at least in part on a number of radio frequency chains at the first wireless device. 13. The method of claim 1, wherein the selecting further comprises:
selecting the set of wireless devices as communication candidates based at least in part on a maximum number of communication candidates to report. 14. The method of claim 13, further comprising:
receiving, from the network entity, an indication of the maximum number of communication candidates to report. 15. The method of claim 1, further comprising:
determining the angular separation threshold associated with the first mode based at least in part on a beam characteristic of the one or more communication beams. 16. The method of claim 1, wherein:
the first wireless device or the set of wireless devices or both comprise distributed units or mobile terminals or both in an integrated access and backhaul system; and the network entity comprises a centralized unit in the integrated access and backhaul system. 17. A method for wireless communications at a network entity, comprising:
receiving, from a first wireless device, a candidate list comprising a set of wireless devices; selecting a subset of the set of wireless devices for communication with the first wireless device based at least in part on a first mode for the first wireless device, wherein the subset of the set of wireless devices comprises at least two wireless devices with an angular separation with reference to the first wireless device that is less than an angular separation threshold associated with the first mode; and transmitting, to the first wireless device, the subset of the set of wireless devices. 18. The method of claim 17, further comprising:
transmitting, to the first wireless device, an indication of the angular separation threshold associated with the first mode, wherein the first mode comprises an activated high pathloss mode. 19. The method of claim 17, wherein the receiving the candidate list further comprises:
receiving, from the first wireless device, a set of spatial separation metrics indicating with which wireless devices of the set of wireless devices the first wireless device supports communication using a same communication beam, wherein the selecting is further based at least in part on the set of spatial separation metrics. 20. The method of claim 17, wherein the receiving the candidate list further comprises:
receiving, from the first wireless device, one or more groups of wireless devices of the set of wireless devices, wherein each group of the one or more groups of wireless devices comprises a plurality of wireless devices with which the first wireless device supports communication using a same communication beam, and wherein the selecting is further based at least in part on the one or more groups of wireless devices. 21. The method of claim 17, wherein the receiving the candidate list further comprises:
receiving, from the first wireless device, a set of received power measurements for the set of wireless devices, wherein the selecting is further based at least in part on the set of received power measurements. 22. The method of claim 17, wherein the selecting comprises:
selecting the subset of the set of wireless devices such that a number of communication beams for the first wireless device to communicate with the subset of the set of wireless devices is less than or equal to a maximum number of supported communication beams for the first wireless device. 23. The method of claim 22, wherein the maximum number of supported communication beams for the first wireless device corresponds to a number of radio frequency chains at the first wireless device. 24. The method of claim 22, wherein a number of wireless devices in the subset of the set of wireless devices is greater than the maximum number of supported communication beams for the first wireless device. 25. The method of claim 17, further comprising:
receiving, from the first wireless device, an updated candidate list comprising an updated set of wireless devices based at least in part on a second mode for the first wireless device, wherein the second mode comprises a deactivated high pathloss mode; selecting an updated subset of the updated set of wireless devices for communication with the first wireless device based at least in part on the second mode for the first wireless device, wherein each wireless device of the updated subset of the updated set of wireless devices has an angular separation with each other wireless device of the updated subset of the updated set of wireless devices with reference to the first wireless device that is greater than an angular separation threshold associated with the second mode; and transmitting, to the first wireless device, the updated subset of the updated set of wireless devices. 26. The method of claim 25, wherein the angular separation threshold associated with the first mode is equal to the angular separation threshold associated with the second mode. 27. The method of claim 17, further comprising:
transmitting, to the first wireless device, an indication of a maximum number of communication candidates to report, wherein the candidate list is based at least in part on the maximum number of communication candidates to report. 28. The method of claim 17, wherein:
the first wireless device or the set of wireless devices or both comprise distributed units or mobile terminals or both in an integrated access and backhaul system; and the network entity comprises a centralized unit in the integrated access and backhaul system. 29. An apparatus for wireless communications at a first wireless device, comprising:
a processor, memory coupled with the processor, the processor and memory configured to:
select a set of wireless devices as communication candidates based at least in part on a first mode for the first wireless device, wherein the set of wireless devices comprises at least two wireless devices with an angular separation with reference to the first wireless device that is less than an angular separation threshold associated with the first mode;
report, to a network entity, a candidate list comprising the set of wireless devices;
receive, from the network entity, a subset of the set of wireless devices based at least in part on the candidate list; and
communicate with the subset of the set of wireless devices using one or more communication beams, wherein the communicating comprises communicating with the at least two wireless devices using a single communication beam of the one or more communication beams based at least in part on the angular separation being less than the angular separation threshold. 30. An apparatus for wireless communications at a network entity, comprising:
a processor, memory coupled with the processor, the processor and memory configured to:
receive, from a first wireless device, a candidate list comprising a set of wireless devices;
select a subset of the set of wireless devices for communication with the first wireless device based at least in part on a first mode for the first wireless device, wherein the subset of the set of wireless devices comprises at least two wireless devices with an angular separation with reference to the first wireless device that is less than an angular separation threshold associated with the first mode; and
transmit, to the first wireless device, the subset of the set of wireless devices. | Methods, systems, and devices for wireless communications are described. The described techniques enable a first wireless device (e.g., an integrated access and backhaul (IAB) node in an IAB system) or a network entity (e.g., a centralized unit (CU) in the IAB system) to select a set of wireless devices for communication. The first wireless device, the CU, or both may select the set of wireless devices for communication based on a pathloss mode of the first wireless device, whether an angular separation between a group of nodes (e.g., one or more of the set of wireless devices) is less than an angular separation threshold, or both. The first wireless device may communicate with the set of wireless devices with one or more communications beams. For example, the device may communicate with multiple wireless devices using a single communication beam if the angular separation between the multiple devices is relatively low.1. A method for wireless communications at a first wireless device, comprising:
selecting a set of wireless devices as communication candidates based at least in part on a first mode for the first wireless device, wherein the set of wireless devices comprises at least two wireless devices with an angular separation with reference to the first wireless device that is less than an angular separation threshold associated with the first mode; reporting, to a network entity, a candidate list comprising the set of wireless devices; receiving, from the network entity, a subset of the set of wireless devices based at least in part on the candidate list; and communicating with the subset of the set of wireless devices using one or more communication beams, wherein the communicating comprises communicating with the at least two wireless devices using a single communication beam of the one or more communication beams based at least in part on the angular separation being less than the angular separation threshold. 2. The method of claim 1, further comprising:
receiving, from the network entity, an indication of the angular separation threshold associated with the first mode. 3. The method of claim 1, further comprising:
discovering a plurality of wireless devices; measuring an angle of arrival or angle of departure or both for communications with each wireless device of the plurality of wireless devices; and determining angular separations for one or more pairs of wireless devices of the plurality of wireless devices based at least in part on the measured angle of arrival or angle of departure or both, wherein the selecting is based at least in part on the determined angular separations and the set of wireless devices is a subset of the plurality of wireless devices. 4. The method of claim 1, wherein the selecting further comprises:
selecting the set of wireless devices as communication candidates based at least in part on received power measurements for the set of wireless devices. 5. The method of claim 1, wherein the reporting the candidate list further comprises:
reporting, to the network entity, a set of spatial separation metrics indicating with which wireless devices of the set of wireless devices the first wireless device supports communication using a same communication beam. 6. The method of claim 1, wherein the reporting the candidate list further comprises:
reporting, to the network entity, one or more groups of wireless devices of the set of wireless devices, wherein each group of the one or more groups of wireless devices comprises a plurality of wireless devices with which the first wireless device supports communication using a same communication beam. 7. The method of claim 1, wherein the communicating with the at least two wireless devices using the single communication beam comprises:
frequency division multiplexing communications with the at least two wireless devices. 8. The method of claim 1, further comprising:
activating the first mode for the first wireless device based at least in part on a measurement, the first mode comprising a high pathloss mode. 9. The method of claim 1, further comprising:
deactivating the first mode for the first wireless device based at least in part on a measurement; selecting an updated set of wireless devices as communication candidates based at least in part on the deactivated first mode, wherein each wireless device of the updated set of wireless devices has an angular separation with each other wireless device of the updated set of wireless devices with reference to the first wireless device that is greater than an angular separation threshold associated with the deactivated first mode; and reporting, to the network entity, an updated candidate list comprising the updated set of wireless devices. 10. The method of claim 9, wherein the angular separation threshold associated with the activated first mode is equal to the angular separation threshold associated with the deactivated first mode. 11. The method of claim 1, wherein each communication beam of the one or more communication beams corresponds to a different radio frequency chain of the first wireless device. 12. The method of claim 11, further comprising:
determining a number of communication beams for the communicating with the subset of the set of wireless devices based at least in part on a number of radio frequency chains at the first wireless device. 13. The method of claim 1, wherein the selecting further comprises:
selecting the set of wireless devices as communication candidates based at least in part on a maximum number of communication candidates to report. 14. The method of claim 13, further comprising:
receiving, from the network entity, an indication of the maximum number of communication candidates to report. 15. The method of claim 1, further comprising:
determining the angular separation threshold associated with the first mode based at least in part on a beam characteristic of the one or more communication beams. 16. The method of claim 1, wherein:
the first wireless device or the set of wireless devices or both comprise distributed units or mobile terminals or both in an integrated access and backhaul system; and the network entity comprises a centralized unit in the integrated access and backhaul system. 17. A method for wireless communications at a network entity, comprising:
receiving, from a first wireless device, a candidate list comprising a set of wireless devices; selecting a subset of the set of wireless devices for communication with the first wireless device based at least in part on a first mode for the first wireless device, wherein the subset of the set of wireless devices comprises at least two wireless devices with an angular separation with reference to the first wireless device that is less than an angular separation threshold associated with the first mode; and transmitting, to the first wireless device, the subset of the set of wireless devices. 18. The method of claim 17, further comprising:
transmitting, to the first wireless device, an indication of the angular separation threshold associated with the first mode, wherein the first mode comprises an activated high pathloss mode. 19. The method of claim 17, wherein the receiving the candidate list further comprises:
receiving, from the first wireless device, a set of spatial separation metrics indicating with which wireless devices of the set of wireless devices the first wireless device supports communication using a same communication beam, wherein the selecting is further based at least in part on the set of spatial separation metrics. 20. The method of claim 17, wherein the receiving the candidate list further comprises:
receiving, from the first wireless device, one or more groups of wireless devices of the set of wireless devices, wherein each group of the one or more groups of wireless devices comprises a plurality of wireless devices with which the first wireless device supports communication using a same communication beam, and wherein the selecting is further based at least in part on the one or more groups of wireless devices. 21. The method of claim 17, wherein the receiving the candidate list further comprises:
receiving, from the first wireless device, a set of received power measurements for the set of wireless devices, wherein the selecting is further based at least in part on the set of received power measurements. 22. The method of claim 17, wherein the selecting comprises:
selecting the subset of the set of wireless devices such that a number of communication beams for the first wireless device to communicate with the subset of the set of wireless devices is less than or equal to a maximum number of supported communication beams for the first wireless device. 23. The method of claim 22, wherein the maximum number of supported communication beams for the first wireless device corresponds to a number of radio frequency chains at the first wireless device. 24. The method of claim 22, wherein a number of wireless devices in the subset of the set of wireless devices is greater than the maximum number of supported communication beams for the first wireless device. 25. The method of claim 17, further comprising:
receiving, from the first wireless device, an updated candidate list comprising an updated set of wireless devices based at least in part on a second mode for the first wireless device, wherein the second mode comprises a deactivated high pathloss mode; selecting an updated subset of the updated set of wireless devices for communication with the first wireless device based at least in part on the second mode for the first wireless device, wherein each wireless device of the updated subset of the updated set of wireless devices has an angular separation with each other wireless device of the updated subset of the updated set of wireless devices with reference to the first wireless device that is greater than an angular separation threshold associated with the second mode; and transmitting, to the first wireless device, the updated subset of the updated set of wireless devices. 26. The method of claim 25, wherein the angular separation threshold associated with the first mode is equal to the angular separation threshold associated with the second mode. 27. The method of claim 17, further comprising:
transmitting, to the first wireless device, an indication of a maximum number of communication candidates to report, wherein the candidate list is based at least in part on the maximum number of communication candidates to report. 28. The method of claim 17, wherein:
the first wireless device or the set of wireless devices or both comprise distributed units or mobile terminals or both in an integrated access and backhaul system; and the network entity comprises a centralized unit in the integrated access and backhaul system. 29. An apparatus for wireless communications at a first wireless device, comprising:
a processor, memory coupled with the processor, the processor and memory configured to:
select a set of wireless devices as communication candidates based at least in part on a first mode for the first wireless device, wherein the set of wireless devices comprises at least two wireless devices with an angular separation with reference to the first wireless device that is less than an angular separation threshold associated with the first mode;
report, to a network entity, a candidate list comprising the set of wireless devices;
receive, from the network entity, a subset of the set of wireless devices based at least in part on the candidate list; and
communicate with the subset of the set of wireless devices using one or more communication beams, wherein the communicating comprises communicating with the at least two wireless devices using a single communication beam of the one or more communication beams based at least in part on the angular separation being less than the angular separation threshold. 30. An apparatus for wireless communications at a network entity, comprising:
a processor, memory coupled with the processor, the processor and memory configured to:
receive, from a first wireless device, a candidate list comprising a set of wireless devices;
select a subset of the set of wireless devices for communication with the first wireless device based at least in part on a first mode for the first wireless device, wherein the subset of the set of wireless devices comprises at least two wireless devices with an angular separation with reference to the first wireless device that is less than an angular separation threshold associated with the first mode; and
transmit, to the first wireless device, the subset of the set of wireless devices. | 3,600 |
349,310 | 16,806,876 | 3,631 | A multilayer coil component includes a multilayer body that is formed by stacking a plurality of insulating layers on top of one another and that has a coil built into the inside thereof; and a first outer electrode and a second outer electrode that are electrically connected to the coil. The coil is formed by electrically connecting a plurality of coil conductors, which are stacked together with insulating layers, to one another. When a coil axis is assumed that is parallel to the length direction and penetrates from the first end surface to the second end surface of the multilayer body, all the coil conductors are arranged so that circles centered on center points of the coil conductors and having diameters that are less than or equal to around 20% of a coil diameter overlap a circumference of a virtual circle centered on the coil axis. | 1. A multilayer coil component comprising:
a multilayer body that is formed by stacking a plurality of insulating layers on top of one another and that has a coil built into the inside thereof, the coil being formed by electrically connecting a plurality of coil conductors, which are stacked together with insulating layers, to one another, and the multilayer body has
a first end surface and a second end surface, which face each other in a length direction,
a first main surface and a second main surface, which face each other in a height direction perpendicular to the length direction, the first main surface being a mounting surface, and a stacking direction of the multilayer body and an axial direction of the coil are parallel to the mounting surface, and
a first side surface and a second side surface, which face each other in a width direction perpendicular to the length direction and the height direction; and
a first outer electrode and a second outer electrode that are electrically connected to the coil, the first outer electrode being arranged so as to cover part of the first end surface and so as to extend from the first end surface and cover part of the first main surface, and the second outer electrode being arranged so as to cover part of the second end surface and so as to extend from the second end surface and cover part of the first main surface, wherein repeating shapes of the coil conductors are substantially circular shapes in a plan view in the stacking direction, and when a coil axis is assumed that is parallel to the length direction and penetrates from the first end surface to the second end surface of the multilayer body, all the coil conductors are arranged so that circles centered on center points of the coil conductors and having diameters that are less than or equal to around 20% of a coil diameter overlap a circumference of a virtual circle centered on the coil axis. 2. The multilayer coil component according to claim 1,
wherein coil diameters of the coil conductors are all identical. 3. The multilayer coil component according to claim 1, further comprising:
a first connection conductor and a second connection conductor inside the multilayer body; wherein the first connection conductor is connected in a straight line between a part of the first outer electrode that covers the first end surface and the coil conductor that faces the first outer electrode, and the second connection conductor is connected in a straight line between a part of the second outer electrode that covers the second end surface and the coil conductor that faces the second outer electrode. 4. The multilayer coil component according to claim 3, wherein
the first connection conductor and the second connection conductor overlap the coil conductors in a plan view from the stacking direction and are located closer to the mounting surface than a center axis of the coil. 5. The multilayer coil component according to claim 2, further comprising:
a first connection conductor and a second connection conductor inside the multilayer body; wherein the first connection conductor is connected in a straight line between a part of the first outer electrode that covers the first end surface and the coil conductor that faces the first outer electrode, and the second connection conductor is connected in a straight line between a part of the second outer electrode that covers the second end surface and the coil conductor that faces the second outer electrode. 6. The multilayer coil component according to claim 5, wherein
the first connection conductor and the second connection conductor overlap the coil conductors in a plan view from the stacking direction and are located closer to the mounting surface than a center axis of the coil. | A multilayer coil component includes a multilayer body that is formed by stacking a plurality of insulating layers on top of one another and that has a coil built into the inside thereof; and a first outer electrode and a second outer electrode that are electrically connected to the coil. The coil is formed by electrically connecting a plurality of coil conductors, which are stacked together with insulating layers, to one another. When a coil axis is assumed that is parallel to the length direction and penetrates from the first end surface to the second end surface of the multilayer body, all the coil conductors are arranged so that circles centered on center points of the coil conductors and having diameters that are less than or equal to around 20% of a coil diameter overlap a circumference of a virtual circle centered on the coil axis.1. A multilayer coil component comprising:
a multilayer body that is formed by stacking a plurality of insulating layers on top of one another and that has a coil built into the inside thereof, the coil being formed by electrically connecting a plurality of coil conductors, which are stacked together with insulating layers, to one another, and the multilayer body has
a first end surface and a second end surface, which face each other in a length direction,
a first main surface and a second main surface, which face each other in a height direction perpendicular to the length direction, the first main surface being a mounting surface, and a stacking direction of the multilayer body and an axial direction of the coil are parallel to the mounting surface, and
a first side surface and a second side surface, which face each other in a width direction perpendicular to the length direction and the height direction; and
a first outer electrode and a second outer electrode that are electrically connected to the coil, the first outer electrode being arranged so as to cover part of the first end surface and so as to extend from the first end surface and cover part of the first main surface, and the second outer electrode being arranged so as to cover part of the second end surface and so as to extend from the second end surface and cover part of the first main surface, wherein repeating shapes of the coil conductors are substantially circular shapes in a plan view in the stacking direction, and when a coil axis is assumed that is parallel to the length direction and penetrates from the first end surface to the second end surface of the multilayer body, all the coil conductors are arranged so that circles centered on center points of the coil conductors and having diameters that are less than or equal to around 20% of a coil diameter overlap a circumference of a virtual circle centered on the coil axis. 2. The multilayer coil component according to claim 1,
wherein coil diameters of the coil conductors are all identical. 3. The multilayer coil component according to claim 1, further comprising:
a first connection conductor and a second connection conductor inside the multilayer body; wherein the first connection conductor is connected in a straight line between a part of the first outer electrode that covers the first end surface and the coil conductor that faces the first outer electrode, and the second connection conductor is connected in a straight line between a part of the second outer electrode that covers the second end surface and the coil conductor that faces the second outer electrode. 4. The multilayer coil component according to claim 3, wherein
the first connection conductor and the second connection conductor overlap the coil conductors in a plan view from the stacking direction and are located closer to the mounting surface than a center axis of the coil. 5. The multilayer coil component according to claim 2, further comprising:
a first connection conductor and a second connection conductor inside the multilayer body; wherein the first connection conductor is connected in a straight line between a part of the first outer electrode that covers the first end surface and the coil conductor that faces the first outer electrode, and the second connection conductor is connected in a straight line between a part of the second outer electrode that covers the second end surface and the coil conductor that faces the second outer electrode. 6. The multilayer coil component according to claim 5, wherein
the first connection conductor and the second connection conductor overlap the coil conductors in a plan view from the stacking direction and are located closer to the mounting surface than a center axis of the coil. | 3,600 |
349,311 | 16,806,858 | 3,631 | Methods, systems, and devices for operating a ferroelectric memory cell or cells are described. A first ferroelectric memory cell may be initialized to a first state and a second ferroelectric memory cell may be initialized to a different state. Each state may have a corresponding digit line voltage. The digit lines of the first and second ferroelectric memory cells may be connected so that charge-sharing occurs between the two digit lines. The voltage resulting from the charge-sharing between the two digit lines may be used by other components as a reference voltage. | 1. A method, comprising:
coupling a first capacitor of a memory device with a first voltage source; coupling a second capacitor of the memory device with a second voltage source different than the first voltage source; determining a first voltage of the first capacitor and a second voltage of the second capacitor based at least in part on coupling the first capacitor with the first voltage source and coupling the second capacitor with the second voltage source; and storing a reference voltage that is based at least in part on the first voltage and the second voltage. 2. The method of claim 1, further comprising:
activating a first switching component that is in electronic communication with the first capacitor and the second capacitor; and activating a second switching component that is in electronic communication with the first capacitor and the second capacitor, wherein the reference voltage is stored based at least in part on activating the first switching component and the second switching component. 3. The method of claim 1, further comprising:
detecting a trigger condition; and activating a first selection component in electronic communication with the first capacitor and the first voltage source and a second selection component in electronic communication with the second capacitor and the second voltage source is based at least in part on detecting the trigger condition. 4. The method of claim 3, wherein the trigger condition comprises at least one of a temperature change, a timer expiration, an operation threshold, or an error correction code (ECC) event. 5. The method of claim 1, further comprising:
storing an output of an analog-to-digital converter that is in electronic communication with a first digit line coupled with the first capacitor and a second digit line coupled with the second capacitor as the reference voltage. 6. A method, comprising:
identifying a first portion of a reference voltage signal, wherein the reference voltage signal is associated with performing a read operation associated with an array of memory cells; identifying a second portion of the reference voltage signal; storing the first portion of the reference voltage signal on a first memory cell of the array of memory cells; and storing the second portion of the reference voltage signal on a second memory cell of the array of memory cells. 7. The method of claim 6, wherein the reference voltage signal is based at least in part on a voltage difference between the first portion stored on the first memory cell and the second portion stored on the second memory cell. 8. The method of claim 6, further comprising:
coupling the first memory cell to a first voltage source, wherein storing the first portion of the reference voltage signal on the first memory cell is based at least in part on coupling the first memory cell to the first voltage source. 9. The method of claim 8, further comprising:
coupling the second memory cell to a second voltage source different from the first voltage source, wherein storing the second portion of the reference voltage signal on the second memory cell is based at least in part on coupling the second memory cell to the second voltage source. 10. The method of claim 9, wherein at least one of the first voltage source or the second voltage source is a virtual ground. 11. The method of claim 9, wherein coupling the first memory cell to the first voltage source is based at least in part on activating a first switching component to selectively couple the first memory cell to a first digit line and activating a second switching component to couple the first voltage source to the first digit line. 12. The method of claim 9, wherein coupling the second memory cell to the second voltage source is based at least in part on activating a third switching component to couple the second memory cell to a second digit line and activating a fourth switching component to couple the second voltage source to the second digit line. 13. The method of claim 6, further comprising:
determining whether a refresh condition associated with the reference voltage signal satisfies a threshold, wherein identifying the first portion of the reference voltage signal and identifying the second portion of the reference voltage signal are based at least in part on determining whether the refresh condition satisfies the threshold. 14. The method of claim 13, further comprising:
storing the second portion of the reference voltage signal on the first memory cell based at least in part on the threshold being satisfied; and storing the first portion of the reference voltage signal on the second memory cell based at least in part on the threshold being satisfied. 15. The method of claim 13, wherein the refresh condition and the threshold are based at least in part on a first temperature of the first memory cell and a second temperature of the second memory cell, or a timer, or a number of access operations performed by the array of memory cells, or an error correction code (ECC) event, or a combination thereof. 16. A method, comprising:
applying a first voltage to a first digit line of an array of memory cells; applying a second voltage to a second digit line of the array of memory cells, wherein the second voltage is different from the first voltage; coupling the first digit line with the second digit line based at least in part on applying the first voltage and the second voltage; and generating a reference voltage based at least in part on coupling the first digit line with the second digit line. 17. The method of claim 16, wherein the reference voltage is based at least in part on a voltage difference between the first voltage and the second voltage. 18. The method of claim 16, further comprising:
determining a logic state stored on a memory cell of the array of memory cells based at least in part on the reference voltage. 19. The method of claim 16, further comprising:
activating one or more switching components that are in electronic communication with the first digit line and the second digit line, wherein coupling the first digit line with the second digit line is based at least in part on activating the one or more switching components. 20. The method of claim 16, further comprising:
coupling a first memory cell of the array of memory cells with the first digit line; and coupling a second memory cell of the array of memory cells with the second digit line, wherein applying the first voltage and the second voltage is based at least in part on coupling the first memory cell with the first digit line and coupling the second memory cell with the second digit line. | Methods, systems, and devices for operating a ferroelectric memory cell or cells are described. A first ferroelectric memory cell may be initialized to a first state and a second ferroelectric memory cell may be initialized to a different state. Each state may have a corresponding digit line voltage. The digit lines of the first and second ferroelectric memory cells may be connected so that charge-sharing occurs between the two digit lines. The voltage resulting from the charge-sharing between the two digit lines may be used by other components as a reference voltage.1. A method, comprising:
coupling a first capacitor of a memory device with a first voltage source; coupling a second capacitor of the memory device with a second voltage source different than the first voltage source; determining a first voltage of the first capacitor and a second voltage of the second capacitor based at least in part on coupling the first capacitor with the first voltage source and coupling the second capacitor with the second voltage source; and storing a reference voltage that is based at least in part on the first voltage and the second voltage. 2. The method of claim 1, further comprising:
activating a first switching component that is in electronic communication with the first capacitor and the second capacitor; and activating a second switching component that is in electronic communication with the first capacitor and the second capacitor, wherein the reference voltage is stored based at least in part on activating the first switching component and the second switching component. 3. The method of claim 1, further comprising:
detecting a trigger condition; and activating a first selection component in electronic communication with the first capacitor and the first voltage source and a second selection component in electronic communication with the second capacitor and the second voltage source is based at least in part on detecting the trigger condition. 4. The method of claim 3, wherein the trigger condition comprises at least one of a temperature change, a timer expiration, an operation threshold, or an error correction code (ECC) event. 5. The method of claim 1, further comprising:
storing an output of an analog-to-digital converter that is in electronic communication with a first digit line coupled with the first capacitor and a second digit line coupled with the second capacitor as the reference voltage. 6. A method, comprising:
identifying a first portion of a reference voltage signal, wherein the reference voltage signal is associated with performing a read operation associated with an array of memory cells; identifying a second portion of the reference voltage signal; storing the first portion of the reference voltage signal on a first memory cell of the array of memory cells; and storing the second portion of the reference voltage signal on a second memory cell of the array of memory cells. 7. The method of claim 6, wherein the reference voltage signal is based at least in part on a voltage difference between the first portion stored on the first memory cell and the second portion stored on the second memory cell. 8. The method of claim 6, further comprising:
coupling the first memory cell to a first voltage source, wherein storing the first portion of the reference voltage signal on the first memory cell is based at least in part on coupling the first memory cell to the first voltage source. 9. The method of claim 8, further comprising:
coupling the second memory cell to a second voltage source different from the first voltage source, wherein storing the second portion of the reference voltage signal on the second memory cell is based at least in part on coupling the second memory cell to the second voltage source. 10. The method of claim 9, wherein at least one of the first voltage source or the second voltage source is a virtual ground. 11. The method of claim 9, wherein coupling the first memory cell to the first voltage source is based at least in part on activating a first switching component to selectively couple the first memory cell to a first digit line and activating a second switching component to couple the first voltage source to the first digit line. 12. The method of claim 9, wherein coupling the second memory cell to the second voltage source is based at least in part on activating a third switching component to couple the second memory cell to a second digit line and activating a fourth switching component to couple the second voltage source to the second digit line. 13. The method of claim 6, further comprising:
determining whether a refresh condition associated with the reference voltage signal satisfies a threshold, wherein identifying the first portion of the reference voltage signal and identifying the second portion of the reference voltage signal are based at least in part on determining whether the refresh condition satisfies the threshold. 14. The method of claim 13, further comprising:
storing the second portion of the reference voltage signal on the first memory cell based at least in part on the threshold being satisfied; and storing the first portion of the reference voltage signal on the second memory cell based at least in part on the threshold being satisfied. 15. The method of claim 13, wherein the refresh condition and the threshold are based at least in part on a first temperature of the first memory cell and a second temperature of the second memory cell, or a timer, or a number of access operations performed by the array of memory cells, or an error correction code (ECC) event, or a combination thereof. 16. A method, comprising:
applying a first voltage to a first digit line of an array of memory cells; applying a second voltage to a second digit line of the array of memory cells, wherein the second voltage is different from the first voltage; coupling the first digit line with the second digit line based at least in part on applying the first voltage and the second voltage; and generating a reference voltage based at least in part on coupling the first digit line with the second digit line. 17. The method of claim 16, wherein the reference voltage is based at least in part on a voltage difference between the first voltage and the second voltage. 18. The method of claim 16, further comprising:
determining a logic state stored on a memory cell of the array of memory cells based at least in part on the reference voltage. 19. The method of claim 16, further comprising:
activating one or more switching components that are in electronic communication with the first digit line and the second digit line, wherein coupling the first digit line with the second digit line is based at least in part on activating the one or more switching components. 20. The method of claim 16, further comprising:
coupling a first memory cell of the array of memory cells with the first digit line; and coupling a second memory cell of the array of memory cells with the second digit line, wherein applying the first voltage and the second voltage is based at least in part on coupling the first memory cell with the first digit line and coupling the second memory cell with the second digit line. | 3,600 |
349,312 | 16,806,887 | 1,654 | Disclosed herein are methods and compositions for the diagnosis and treatment of Vascular Associated Maculopathy, or a symptom thereof, in a subject. Disclosed herein are methods and compositions for the diagnosis and treatment of one or more symptoms associated with Vascular Associated Maculopathy Disclosed in a subject. Disclosed herein are methods and compositions for the diagnosis and treatment of severe maculopathy or late stage maculopathy in a subject. Disclosed herein are methods and compositions for the diagnosis and treatment of resolving aberrant choriocapillaris lobules in a subject. | 1-25. (canceled) 26. A method of treating vascular associated maculopathy in a subject, comprising administering an effective amount of an elastase modulator to the subject. 27. The method of claim 26, wherein the elastase modulator is alpha-1-antitrypsin, ZD0892, SPIPm2, ONO-5046, 1,4-bisphenyl-1,4-dihydropyridine, 2-hydroxy and 2-aminodihydropyridines, a dolastatin or dolasatin analog, or a lyngbyastatin or a lyngbyastatin analog. 28. The method of claim 26, wherein the elastase modulator inhibits the elastase activity of HtrA Serine Peptidase 1 (HTRA1) . 29. The method of claim 28, wherein the elastase modulator is DPMFKLboroV (SEQ ID NO: 13). 30. The method of claim 26, wherein the elastase modulator binds to the protease recognition pocket of HTRA1. 31. A method of determining the efficacy of an agent for treating vascular associated maculopathy in a subject, the method comprising:
a) measuring the number of aberrant choriocapillaris lobules in an eye of the subject before beginning treatment; b) treating the subject by administering the agent to the eye for a defined interval of time; c) measuring the number of aberrant choriocapillaris lobules in the eye after the interval of time; d) comparing the number of aberrant choriocapillaris lobules measured in the eye before and after treatment of the eye in step (b); and e) determining the efficacy of the agent in accordance with whether the number of aberrant choriocapillaris lobules in the eye of the subject has increased subsequent to administering the agent to the eye in step (b). 32. The method of claim 31, wherein detecting no increase in the number of aberrant choriocapillaris lobules in the eye of the subject of step (c) indicates that the agent is effective. 33. The method of claim 31, further comprising examining retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) cells in and around choriocapillaris lobules in the eye of the subject before and after treatment with the agent,
wherein detecting no change or a decrease in the regrowth or regeneration of RPE cells overlying and corresponding to the choriocapillaris lobules in the eye of the subject of step (c) indicates that the agent is effective. 34. The method of claim 31, further comprising examining RPE cells in and around choriocapillaris lobules in the eye of the subject before and after treatment with the agent,
wherein detecting an increase in the regrowth or regeneration of RPE cells overlying and corresponding to the choriocapillaris lobules in the eye of the subject of step (c) indicates that the agent is not effective. 35. The method of claim 31, wherein the subject is experiencing one or more adverse symptoms as a result of the vascular associated maculopathy in the eye. 36. The method of claim 31, wherein the subject has late-stage maculopathy. 37. The method of claim 31, wherein administering the agent to the eye of the subject is effective in resolving aberrant choriocapillaris lobules in the eye. 38. The method of claim 31, wherein the subject is administered with a combination of agents in step (b), and the efficacy of the combination of agents for treating vascular associated maculopathy is determined in step (e) in accordance with whether the number of aberrant choriocapillaris lobules in the eye of the subject has increased as a result of treatment with the combination of agents. 39. The method of claim 31, further comprising continuing treatment of the eye of the subject with the agent on an ongoing basis if the agent is found to inhibit formation of aberrant choriocapillaris lobules in the eye in step (e). 40. The method of claim 31, wherein the agent administered to the eye of the subject in step (b) is an elastase modulator. 41. The method of claim 40, wherein the elastase modulator is alpha-1-antitrypsin, ZD0892, SPIPm2, ONO-5046, 1,4-bisphenyl-1,4-dihydropyridine, 2-hydroxypyridine, 2-am inodihydropyridine, dolastatin, or lyngbyastatin. 42. The method of claim 40, wherein the elastase modulator inhibits the elastase activity of HtrA Serine Peptidase 1 (HTRA1). 43. The method of claim 40, wherein the elastase modulator is DPMFKLboroV (SEQ ID NO:13). | Disclosed herein are methods and compositions for the diagnosis and treatment of Vascular Associated Maculopathy, or a symptom thereof, in a subject. Disclosed herein are methods and compositions for the diagnosis and treatment of one or more symptoms associated with Vascular Associated Maculopathy Disclosed in a subject. Disclosed herein are methods and compositions for the diagnosis and treatment of severe maculopathy or late stage maculopathy in a subject. Disclosed herein are methods and compositions for the diagnosis and treatment of resolving aberrant choriocapillaris lobules in a subject.1-25. (canceled) 26. A method of treating vascular associated maculopathy in a subject, comprising administering an effective amount of an elastase modulator to the subject. 27. The method of claim 26, wherein the elastase modulator is alpha-1-antitrypsin, ZD0892, SPIPm2, ONO-5046, 1,4-bisphenyl-1,4-dihydropyridine, 2-hydroxy and 2-aminodihydropyridines, a dolastatin or dolasatin analog, or a lyngbyastatin or a lyngbyastatin analog. 28. The method of claim 26, wherein the elastase modulator inhibits the elastase activity of HtrA Serine Peptidase 1 (HTRA1) . 29. The method of claim 28, wherein the elastase modulator is DPMFKLboroV (SEQ ID NO: 13). 30. The method of claim 26, wherein the elastase modulator binds to the protease recognition pocket of HTRA1. 31. A method of determining the efficacy of an agent for treating vascular associated maculopathy in a subject, the method comprising:
a) measuring the number of aberrant choriocapillaris lobules in an eye of the subject before beginning treatment; b) treating the subject by administering the agent to the eye for a defined interval of time; c) measuring the number of aberrant choriocapillaris lobules in the eye after the interval of time; d) comparing the number of aberrant choriocapillaris lobules measured in the eye before and after treatment of the eye in step (b); and e) determining the efficacy of the agent in accordance with whether the number of aberrant choriocapillaris lobules in the eye of the subject has increased subsequent to administering the agent to the eye in step (b). 32. The method of claim 31, wherein detecting no increase in the number of aberrant choriocapillaris lobules in the eye of the subject of step (c) indicates that the agent is effective. 33. The method of claim 31, further comprising examining retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) cells in and around choriocapillaris lobules in the eye of the subject before and after treatment with the agent,
wherein detecting no change or a decrease in the regrowth or regeneration of RPE cells overlying and corresponding to the choriocapillaris lobules in the eye of the subject of step (c) indicates that the agent is effective. 34. The method of claim 31, further comprising examining RPE cells in and around choriocapillaris lobules in the eye of the subject before and after treatment with the agent,
wherein detecting an increase in the regrowth or regeneration of RPE cells overlying and corresponding to the choriocapillaris lobules in the eye of the subject of step (c) indicates that the agent is not effective. 35. The method of claim 31, wherein the subject is experiencing one or more adverse symptoms as a result of the vascular associated maculopathy in the eye. 36. The method of claim 31, wherein the subject has late-stage maculopathy. 37. The method of claim 31, wherein administering the agent to the eye of the subject is effective in resolving aberrant choriocapillaris lobules in the eye. 38. The method of claim 31, wherein the subject is administered with a combination of agents in step (b), and the efficacy of the combination of agents for treating vascular associated maculopathy is determined in step (e) in accordance with whether the number of aberrant choriocapillaris lobules in the eye of the subject has increased as a result of treatment with the combination of agents. 39. The method of claim 31, further comprising continuing treatment of the eye of the subject with the agent on an ongoing basis if the agent is found to inhibit formation of aberrant choriocapillaris lobules in the eye in step (e). 40. The method of claim 31, wherein the agent administered to the eye of the subject in step (b) is an elastase modulator. 41. The method of claim 40, wherein the elastase modulator is alpha-1-antitrypsin, ZD0892, SPIPm2, ONO-5046, 1,4-bisphenyl-1,4-dihydropyridine, 2-hydroxypyridine, 2-am inodihydropyridine, dolastatin, or lyngbyastatin. 42. The method of claim 40, wherein the elastase modulator inhibits the elastase activity of HtrA Serine Peptidase 1 (HTRA1). 43. The method of claim 40, wherein the elastase modulator is DPMFKLboroV (SEQ ID NO:13). | 1,600 |
349,313 | 16,806,846 | 1,654 | A display device includes: a display unit including a display area and a non-display area; and a vibration generating unit disposed on the display unit and including a vibration area and a non-vibration area. The vibration generating unit includes first vibration electrodes, second vibration electrodes facing the first vibration electrodes, and vibration layers disposed between the first vibration electrodes and the second vibration electrodes, and the vibration layers are disposed in the vibration area and spaced apart from each other. | 1. A display device comprising:
a display unit including a display area and a non-display area; and a vibration generating unit disposed on the display unit and including a vibration area and a non-vibration area, wherein the vibration generating unit comprises first vibration electrodes, second vibration electrodes facing the first vibration electrodes, and vibration layers disposed between the first vibration electrodes and the second vibration electrodes, wherein the vibration layers are disposed in the vibration area and spaced apart from each other. 2. The display device of claim 1, wherein
the vibration generating unit further comprises an insulating layer, and the insulating layer is disposed between the vibration layers. 3. The display device of claim 2, wherein
the first vibration electrodes are spaced apart from each other, the second vibration electrodes are spaced apart from each other, and the first vibration electrodes and the second vibration electrodes overlap each other with the vibration layers interposed between the first vibration electrodes and the second vibration electrodes. 4. The display device of claim 3, wherein the vibration generating unit further comprises:
a first connection pattern which connects the first vibration electrodes in a first direction; and a second connection pattern which connects the second vibration electrodes in a second direction intersecting the first direction. 5. The display device of claim 4, wherein a width of the first connection pattern in the second direction is smaller than a width of each of the first vibration electrodes in the second direction. 6. The display device of claim 5, wherein a width of the second connection pattern in the first direction is smaller than a width of each of the second vibration electrodes in the first direction. 7. The display device of claim 6, wherein the first connection pattern and the second connection pattern overlap the insulating layer in a thickness direction. 8. The display device of claim 7, further comprising:
first vibration pads and second vibration pads which are disposed in the non-vibration area; and first vibration lines which are connected to the first vibration electrodes, wherein one ends of the vibration lines are respectively connected to the first vibration electrodes disposed in the same row, and other ends of the vibration lines are respectively connected to the first vibration pads. 9. The display device of claim 8, further comprising:
second vibration lines which are connected to the second vibration electrodes, wherein one ends of the second vibration lines are respectively connected to the second vibration electrodes disposed in the same column, and the other ends of the second vibration lines are respectively connected to the second vibration pads. 10. The display device of claim 1, wherein the vibration layers comprise a ferroelectric polymer. 11. The display device of claim 10, wherein the vibration layers comprise polyvinylidene fluoride. 12. The display device of claim 1, further comprising:
a touch detection unit disposed on the vibration generating unit. 13. The display device of claim 1, further comprising:
a touch detection unit disposed between the display unit and the vibration generating unit. 14. The display device of claim 12, further comprising:
a vibration driving circuit which applies driving voltages to the first vibration electrodes and the second vibration electrodes; and a touch driving circuit which detects a touch input and calculates touch coordinates of the touch input, wherein the touch driving circuit transmits a touch coordinate signal to the vibration driving circuit. 15. A display device comprising:
a display unit including a display area and a non-display area; and a vibration generating unit disposed on the display unit and including a vibration area and a non-vibration area, wherein the vibration generating unit further includes vibration generating areas disposed in the vibration area and spaced apart from each other, and each of the vibration generating areas comprises:
a first vibration electrode and a second vibration electrode facing each other; and
a vibration layer disposed between the first vibration electrode and the second vibration electrode. 16. The display device of claim 15, wherein the vibration layer comprises polyvinylidene fluoride and is provided in plural in a form of islands in the vibration area. 17. The display device of claim 16, further comprising:
a touch detection unit which is disposed on the vibration generating unit and comprises a plurality of touch electrodes, wherein each of the vibration generating areas correspond to each of the touch electrodes. 18. The display device of claim 17, further comprising:
an insulating layer which is disposed in a same layer as the vibration layer and surrounds the vibration layer. 19. A method of driving a display device comprising a display unit, a vibration generating unit disposed on the display unit and including vibration generating areas spaced apart from each other, and a touch detection unit disposed on the vibration generating unit, the method comprising:
sensing a touch on the display device by using the touch detection unit; and providing a haptic feedback based on coordinates of the touch by using the vibration generating unit, wherein the providing the haptic feedback comprises generating vibrations by applying a driving voltage to a vibration generating area corresponding to the coordinates of the touch by using the vibration generating unit. 20. The method of claim 19, wherein
the display device further comprises a vibration driving circuit which applies the driving voltage and a touch driving circuit which senses the touch, wherein the method further comprises transmitting a touch coordinate signal generated based on the coordinates of the touch from the touch driving circuit to the vibration driving circuit. | A display device includes: a display unit including a display area and a non-display area; and a vibration generating unit disposed on the display unit and including a vibration area and a non-vibration area. The vibration generating unit includes first vibration electrodes, second vibration electrodes facing the first vibration electrodes, and vibration layers disposed between the first vibration electrodes and the second vibration electrodes, and the vibration layers are disposed in the vibration area and spaced apart from each other.1. A display device comprising:
a display unit including a display area and a non-display area; and a vibration generating unit disposed on the display unit and including a vibration area and a non-vibration area, wherein the vibration generating unit comprises first vibration electrodes, second vibration electrodes facing the first vibration electrodes, and vibration layers disposed between the first vibration electrodes and the second vibration electrodes, wherein the vibration layers are disposed in the vibration area and spaced apart from each other. 2. The display device of claim 1, wherein
the vibration generating unit further comprises an insulating layer, and the insulating layer is disposed between the vibration layers. 3. The display device of claim 2, wherein
the first vibration electrodes are spaced apart from each other, the second vibration electrodes are spaced apart from each other, and the first vibration electrodes and the second vibration electrodes overlap each other with the vibration layers interposed between the first vibration electrodes and the second vibration electrodes. 4. The display device of claim 3, wherein the vibration generating unit further comprises:
a first connection pattern which connects the first vibration electrodes in a first direction; and a second connection pattern which connects the second vibration electrodes in a second direction intersecting the first direction. 5. The display device of claim 4, wherein a width of the first connection pattern in the second direction is smaller than a width of each of the first vibration electrodes in the second direction. 6. The display device of claim 5, wherein a width of the second connection pattern in the first direction is smaller than a width of each of the second vibration electrodes in the first direction. 7. The display device of claim 6, wherein the first connection pattern and the second connection pattern overlap the insulating layer in a thickness direction. 8. The display device of claim 7, further comprising:
first vibration pads and second vibration pads which are disposed in the non-vibration area; and first vibration lines which are connected to the first vibration electrodes, wherein one ends of the vibration lines are respectively connected to the first vibration electrodes disposed in the same row, and other ends of the vibration lines are respectively connected to the first vibration pads. 9. The display device of claim 8, further comprising:
second vibration lines which are connected to the second vibration electrodes, wherein one ends of the second vibration lines are respectively connected to the second vibration electrodes disposed in the same column, and the other ends of the second vibration lines are respectively connected to the second vibration pads. 10. The display device of claim 1, wherein the vibration layers comprise a ferroelectric polymer. 11. The display device of claim 10, wherein the vibration layers comprise polyvinylidene fluoride. 12. The display device of claim 1, further comprising:
a touch detection unit disposed on the vibration generating unit. 13. The display device of claim 1, further comprising:
a touch detection unit disposed between the display unit and the vibration generating unit. 14. The display device of claim 12, further comprising:
a vibration driving circuit which applies driving voltages to the first vibration electrodes and the second vibration electrodes; and a touch driving circuit which detects a touch input and calculates touch coordinates of the touch input, wherein the touch driving circuit transmits a touch coordinate signal to the vibration driving circuit. 15. A display device comprising:
a display unit including a display area and a non-display area; and a vibration generating unit disposed on the display unit and including a vibration area and a non-vibration area, wherein the vibration generating unit further includes vibration generating areas disposed in the vibration area and spaced apart from each other, and each of the vibration generating areas comprises:
a first vibration electrode and a second vibration electrode facing each other; and
a vibration layer disposed between the first vibration electrode and the second vibration electrode. 16. The display device of claim 15, wherein the vibration layer comprises polyvinylidene fluoride and is provided in plural in a form of islands in the vibration area. 17. The display device of claim 16, further comprising:
a touch detection unit which is disposed on the vibration generating unit and comprises a plurality of touch electrodes, wherein each of the vibration generating areas correspond to each of the touch electrodes. 18. The display device of claim 17, further comprising:
an insulating layer which is disposed in a same layer as the vibration layer and surrounds the vibration layer. 19. A method of driving a display device comprising a display unit, a vibration generating unit disposed on the display unit and including vibration generating areas spaced apart from each other, and a touch detection unit disposed on the vibration generating unit, the method comprising:
sensing a touch on the display device by using the touch detection unit; and providing a haptic feedback based on coordinates of the touch by using the vibration generating unit, wherein the providing the haptic feedback comprises generating vibrations by applying a driving voltage to a vibration generating area corresponding to the coordinates of the touch by using the vibration generating unit. 20. The method of claim 19, wherein
the display device further comprises a vibration driving circuit which applies the driving voltage and a touch driving circuit which senses the touch, wherein the method further comprises transmitting a touch coordinate signal generated based on the coordinates of the touch from the touch driving circuit to the vibration driving circuit. | 1,600 |
349,314 | 16,806,874 | 1,654 | Embodiments of the microwave amplification system are described. In an embodiment, a microwave amplification system includes a microwave amplifier that contains a paramagnetic material with an impurity. The impurity has a plurality of nuclear spin and electron spin-based energy levels. The system includes an input to receive a pumping signal which is transmitted to the microwave amplifier to cause a population inversion in the impurity and excite it to one of the nuclear spin and electron spin-based energy levels. The system further includes another input to receive an input signal to be amplified by the microwave amplifier, the input signal having a lower power than the pumping signal. Once transmitted to the microwave amplifier, the input signal is amplified by the excited state of the impurity in the microwave amplifier thereby generating an amplified signal. | 1. A microwave amplification system comprising:
a microwave amplifier comprising a paramagnetic material that includes an impurity, the impurity having a plurality of nuclear spin and electron spin-based energy levels for the impurity; an input to receive a pumping signal; an input to receive an input signal to be amplified by the microwave amplifier, wherein the input signal has lower power than the pumping signal; wherein the pumping signal causes a population inversion to an excited state corresponding to at least one energy level of the plurality of nuclear spin and electron spin-based energy levels; wherein the population inversion to the at least one energy level causes amplification of the input signal, thereby generating an amplified signal. 2. The system of claim 1, wherein the paramagnetic material comprising the impurity, is placed in a microwave resonator that is coupled to a dilution refrigerator. 3. The system of claim 1, wherein the microwave amplifier is a maser microwave amplifier. 4. The system of claim 1, wherein the paramagnetic material is a diamond crystal, and the impurity is a nitrogen impurity within the diamond crystal. 5. The system of claim 1, wherein a magnetic field is applied to the paramagnetic material, thereby generating excited states for impurity population of the impurity. 6. The system of claim 1, wherein each unique excited state corresponds to a unique combination of a nuclear spin and electron spin of the impurity. 7. The system of claim 1, wherein energy levels, of the plurality of energy levels, that correspond to the same electron spin but different a nuclear spin, are equally spaced. 8. The system of claim 1, wherein the pump signal causes an initial population inversion to an initial excited state of an initial ground state of the impurity, wherein the initial excited state is different from the initial ground state by at least the difference in an electron spin of the impurity. 9. The system of claim 8, wherein the population inversion is caused by cross-relaxation of the initial excited state into the excited state, wherein the excited state is different from the initial excited state by at least the difference in a nuclear spin of the impurity. 10. The system of claim 1, wherein the amplification of the input signal is performed through release of energy from a relaxation of the population inversion from the excited state to a ground state of the excited state. 11. The system of claim 1, wherein the pump signal has a lower frequency than the input signal. 12. The system of claim 1, further comprising:
a phase shifter, the phase shifter receiving the pump signal and generating a phase-shifted signal, cancellation signal, of the pump signal; a directional coupler to merge the cancellation signal with the amplified signal to cancel at least a portion of the pump signal for the amplified signal. 13. The system of claim 1, wherein the microwave amplifier comprises a transmission line coupled to the input, the transmission line routing the input signal through a plurality of impurities of the paramagnetic material that includes the impurity. 14. A method comprising:
receiving, at a first input of a microwave amplifier, a pumping signal; receiving, at a second input of the microwave amplifier, an input signal to be amplified, wherein the input signal has lower power than the pumping signal; transmitting the pumping signal to a paramagnetic material of the microwave amplifier to cause a population inversion to an excited state in the paramagnetic material corresponding to at least one energy level; wherein the at least one energy level is generated by the existence of an impurity in the paramagnetic material, the impurity having one or more nuclear spin states and one or more electron spin states; wherein unique combinations of each of the one or more nuclear spin and the one or more electron spin states correspond to a plurality of energy levels that include the at least one energy level; transmitting the input signal through the paramagnetic material of the microwave amplifier in the excited state; based at least in part routing the paramagnetic material in the excited state, amplifying the input signal based on the at least one energy level, thereby generating an amplified signal. 15. The method of claim 14, further comprising applying a magnetic field to the paramagnetic material, thereby generating the plurality of energy levels. 16. The method of claim 14, further comprising:
the pump signal transforming an initial ground state of the impurity to an initial excited state, wherein the initial excited state is different from the initial ground state by at least the difference in electron spin of the impurity. 17. The method of claim 16, further comprising:
generating the population inversion by cross-relaxation of the initial excited state into the excited state, wherein the excited state is different from the initial excited state by at least the difference in a nuclear spin of the impurity. 18. The method of claim 14, further comprising amplifying the input signal through a release of energy from a relaxation of the population inversion from the excited state to a ground state of the excited state. 19. The method of claim 14, wherein the pump signal has a lower frequency than the input signal. 20. The method of claim 14, further comprising:
phase-shifting the pump signal thereby generating a phase-shifted signal, cancellation signal, of the pump signal; merging the cancellation signal with the amplified signal to cancel at least a portion of the pump signal for the amplified signal. | Embodiments of the microwave amplification system are described. In an embodiment, a microwave amplification system includes a microwave amplifier that contains a paramagnetic material with an impurity. The impurity has a plurality of nuclear spin and electron spin-based energy levels. The system includes an input to receive a pumping signal which is transmitted to the microwave amplifier to cause a population inversion in the impurity and excite it to one of the nuclear spin and electron spin-based energy levels. The system further includes another input to receive an input signal to be amplified by the microwave amplifier, the input signal having a lower power than the pumping signal. Once transmitted to the microwave amplifier, the input signal is amplified by the excited state of the impurity in the microwave amplifier thereby generating an amplified signal.1. A microwave amplification system comprising:
a microwave amplifier comprising a paramagnetic material that includes an impurity, the impurity having a plurality of nuclear spin and electron spin-based energy levels for the impurity; an input to receive a pumping signal; an input to receive an input signal to be amplified by the microwave amplifier, wherein the input signal has lower power than the pumping signal; wherein the pumping signal causes a population inversion to an excited state corresponding to at least one energy level of the plurality of nuclear spin and electron spin-based energy levels; wherein the population inversion to the at least one energy level causes amplification of the input signal, thereby generating an amplified signal. 2. The system of claim 1, wherein the paramagnetic material comprising the impurity, is placed in a microwave resonator that is coupled to a dilution refrigerator. 3. The system of claim 1, wherein the microwave amplifier is a maser microwave amplifier. 4. The system of claim 1, wherein the paramagnetic material is a diamond crystal, and the impurity is a nitrogen impurity within the diamond crystal. 5. The system of claim 1, wherein a magnetic field is applied to the paramagnetic material, thereby generating excited states for impurity population of the impurity. 6. The system of claim 1, wherein each unique excited state corresponds to a unique combination of a nuclear spin and electron spin of the impurity. 7. The system of claim 1, wherein energy levels, of the plurality of energy levels, that correspond to the same electron spin but different a nuclear spin, are equally spaced. 8. The system of claim 1, wherein the pump signal causes an initial population inversion to an initial excited state of an initial ground state of the impurity, wherein the initial excited state is different from the initial ground state by at least the difference in an electron spin of the impurity. 9. The system of claim 8, wherein the population inversion is caused by cross-relaxation of the initial excited state into the excited state, wherein the excited state is different from the initial excited state by at least the difference in a nuclear spin of the impurity. 10. The system of claim 1, wherein the amplification of the input signal is performed through release of energy from a relaxation of the population inversion from the excited state to a ground state of the excited state. 11. The system of claim 1, wherein the pump signal has a lower frequency than the input signal. 12. The system of claim 1, further comprising:
a phase shifter, the phase shifter receiving the pump signal and generating a phase-shifted signal, cancellation signal, of the pump signal; a directional coupler to merge the cancellation signal with the amplified signal to cancel at least a portion of the pump signal for the amplified signal. 13. The system of claim 1, wherein the microwave amplifier comprises a transmission line coupled to the input, the transmission line routing the input signal through a plurality of impurities of the paramagnetic material that includes the impurity. 14. A method comprising:
receiving, at a first input of a microwave amplifier, a pumping signal; receiving, at a second input of the microwave amplifier, an input signal to be amplified, wherein the input signal has lower power than the pumping signal; transmitting the pumping signal to a paramagnetic material of the microwave amplifier to cause a population inversion to an excited state in the paramagnetic material corresponding to at least one energy level; wherein the at least one energy level is generated by the existence of an impurity in the paramagnetic material, the impurity having one or more nuclear spin states and one or more electron spin states; wherein unique combinations of each of the one or more nuclear spin and the one or more electron spin states correspond to a plurality of energy levels that include the at least one energy level; transmitting the input signal through the paramagnetic material of the microwave amplifier in the excited state; based at least in part routing the paramagnetic material in the excited state, amplifying the input signal based on the at least one energy level, thereby generating an amplified signal. 15. The method of claim 14, further comprising applying a magnetic field to the paramagnetic material, thereby generating the plurality of energy levels. 16. The method of claim 14, further comprising:
the pump signal transforming an initial ground state of the impurity to an initial excited state, wherein the initial excited state is different from the initial ground state by at least the difference in electron spin of the impurity. 17. The method of claim 16, further comprising:
generating the population inversion by cross-relaxation of the initial excited state into the excited state, wherein the excited state is different from the initial excited state by at least the difference in a nuclear spin of the impurity. 18. The method of claim 14, further comprising amplifying the input signal through a release of energy from a relaxation of the population inversion from the excited state to a ground state of the excited state. 19. The method of claim 14, wherein the pump signal has a lower frequency than the input signal. 20. The method of claim 14, further comprising:
phase-shifting the pump signal thereby generating a phase-shifted signal, cancellation signal, of the pump signal; merging the cancellation signal with the amplified signal to cancel at least a portion of the pump signal for the amplified signal. | 1,600 |
349,315 | 16,806,877 | 3,694 | The invention relates to a method and apparatus for sending and receiving prompts to end-users inside and outside the home. A prompt, for example, a message, image, or sound is presented to the end user in order to notify them of a health event, serve as a simple reminder, helps them through their daily activities. The invention includes, for example, the following components: a remote prompting client which runs on the end-user's home network and is typically associated with a physical display device. This entity has the ability to receive a prompt request from a remote prompting host, and display the prompt to the end-user; and a remote prompting host which runs on the end-user's home network and has the ability to scan the network and discover all existing remote prompting clients. | 1-15. (canceled) 16. A system, comprising:
a sensor device configured to:
measure motion data for a user of the sensor device;
detect a health event of the user based on the motion data; and
communicate the detected health event with a low-power wireless protocol;
a host device configured to:
receive, from the sensor device using the low-power wireless protocol, a message for the detected health event;
initiate an emergency alert based on the message for the detected health went;
send, to a first destination, a first alert communication for the emergency alert, wherein the first alert communication includes information associated with the detected health event and location information associated with the user; and
send, to a second destination, a second alert communication for the emergency alert, wherein the second alert communication includes the information associated with the detected health event and the location information associated with the user. 17. The system of claim 16, wherein the detected health event indicates a possible fall of the user of the sensor device. 18. The system of claim 16, wherein the first alert communication and the second alert communication are automatically sent by the host device in response to initiation of the emergency alert. 19. The system of claim 18, wherein the initiation of the emergency alert occurs after a predetermined time has elapsed. 20. The system of claim 16, wherein the second alert communication occurs after completion of the first alert communication. 21. The system of claim 16, wherein the emergency alert is cancellable in response to input from the user. 22. The system of claim 16, wherein the first alert communication comprises an audio message. 23. The system of claim 16, wherein the first destination is an entity located remote to a location of the user. 24. The system of claim 16, wherein the second destination is a phone associated with another user. 25. The system of claim 24, wherein the second alert communication comprises an SMS message. 26. An apparatus, comprising:
communication circuitry to communicate with a sensor device using a low-power wireless protocol; at least one processor; and memory including instructions that, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the at least one processor to:
obtain, from the sensor device using the low-power wireless protocol, a message for a detected health event, wherein the sensor device provides the message based on: measurement of motion data for a user of the sensor device, and detection of the health event of the user based on the motion data;
initiate an emergency alert based on the message for the detected health event;
send, to a first destination, a first alert communication for the emergency alert, wherein the first alert communication includes information associated with the detected health event and location information associated with the user; and
send, to a second destination, a second alert communication for the emergency alert, wherein the second alert communication includes the information associated with the detected health event and the location information associated with the user. 27. The apparatus of claim 26, wherein the detected health event indicates a possible fall of the user of the sensor device. 28. The apparatus of claim 26, wherein the first alert communication and the second alert communication are automatically sent in response to initiation of the emergency alert. 29. The apparatus of claim 28, wherein the initiation of the emergency alert occurs after a predetermined time has elapsed. 30. The apparatus of claim 26, wherein the second alert communication occurs after completion of the first alert communication. 31. The apparatus of claim 26, wherein the emergency alert is cancellable in response to input from the user. 32. The apparatus of claim 26, wherein the first alert communication comprises an audio message. 33. The apparatus of claim 26, wherein the first destination is an entity located remote to a location of the user. 34. The apparatus of claim 26, wherein the second destination is a phone associated with another user. 35. The apparatus of claim 34, wherein the second alert communication comprises an SMS message. 36. At least one non-transitory machine-readable storage medium comprising instructions stored thereupon, which when executed by processing circuitry of a mobile computing device, cause the processing circuitry to perform operations comprising:
obtaining, from a sensor device using a low-power wireless protocol, a message for a detected health event, wherein the sensor device communicates the message to the mobile computing device based on: measurement of motion data for a user of the sensor device, and detection of the health event of the user based on the motion data; initiate an emergency alert based on the message for the detected health event; send, to a first destination, a first alert communication for the emergency alert, wherein the first alert communication includes information associated with the detected health event and location information associated with the user; and send, to a second destination, a second alert communication for the emergency alert, wherein the second alert communication includes the information associated with the detected health event and the location information associated with the user. 37. The machine-readable storage medium of claim 36, wherein the detected health event indicates a possible fall of the user of the sensor device. 38. The machine-readable storage medium of claim 36, wherein the first alert communication and the second alert communication are automatically sent in response to initiation of the emergency alert. 39. The machine-readable storage medium of claim 38, wherein the initiation of the emergency alert occurs after a predetermined time has elapsed. 40. The machine-readable storage medium of claim 36, wherein the second alert communication occurs after completion of the first alert communication. 41. The machine-readable storage medium of claim 36, wherein the emergency alert is cancellable in response to input from the user. 42. The machine-readable storage medium of claim 36, wherein the first alert communication comprises an audio message. 43. The machine-readable storage medium of claim 36, wherein the first destination is an entity located remote to a location of the user. 44. The machine-readable storage medium of claim 36, wherein the second destination is a phone associated with another user. 45. The machine-readable storage medium of claim 44, wherein the second alert communication comprises an SMS message. 46. A system, comprising:
a sensor device, comprising:
means for measuring motion data for a user of the sensor device;
means for detecting a health event of the user based on the motion data; and
means for communicating the detected health event;
a host device, comprising:
means for receiving, from the sensor device, a message for the detected health event;
means for initiating an emergency alert based on the message for the detected health event;
means for communicating, to a first destination, a first alert communication for the emergency alert, wherein the first alert communication includes information associated with the detected health event and location information associated with the user; and
means for communicating, to a second destination, a second alert communication for the emergency alert, wherein the second alert communication includes the information associated with the detected health event and the location information associated with the user. | The invention relates to a method and apparatus for sending and receiving prompts to end-users inside and outside the home. A prompt, for example, a message, image, or sound is presented to the end user in order to notify them of a health event, serve as a simple reminder, helps them through their daily activities. The invention includes, for example, the following components: a remote prompting client which runs on the end-user's home network and is typically associated with a physical display device. This entity has the ability to receive a prompt request from a remote prompting host, and display the prompt to the end-user; and a remote prompting host which runs on the end-user's home network and has the ability to scan the network and discover all existing remote prompting clients.1-15. (canceled) 16. A system, comprising:
a sensor device configured to:
measure motion data for a user of the sensor device;
detect a health event of the user based on the motion data; and
communicate the detected health event with a low-power wireless protocol;
a host device configured to:
receive, from the sensor device using the low-power wireless protocol, a message for the detected health event;
initiate an emergency alert based on the message for the detected health went;
send, to a first destination, a first alert communication for the emergency alert, wherein the first alert communication includes information associated with the detected health event and location information associated with the user; and
send, to a second destination, a second alert communication for the emergency alert, wherein the second alert communication includes the information associated with the detected health event and the location information associated with the user. 17. The system of claim 16, wherein the detected health event indicates a possible fall of the user of the sensor device. 18. The system of claim 16, wherein the first alert communication and the second alert communication are automatically sent by the host device in response to initiation of the emergency alert. 19. The system of claim 18, wherein the initiation of the emergency alert occurs after a predetermined time has elapsed. 20. The system of claim 16, wherein the second alert communication occurs after completion of the first alert communication. 21. The system of claim 16, wherein the emergency alert is cancellable in response to input from the user. 22. The system of claim 16, wherein the first alert communication comprises an audio message. 23. The system of claim 16, wherein the first destination is an entity located remote to a location of the user. 24. The system of claim 16, wherein the second destination is a phone associated with another user. 25. The system of claim 24, wherein the second alert communication comprises an SMS message. 26. An apparatus, comprising:
communication circuitry to communicate with a sensor device using a low-power wireless protocol; at least one processor; and memory including instructions that, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the at least one processor to:
obtain, from the sensor device using the low-power wireless protocol, a message for a detected health event, wherein the sensor device provides the message based on: measurement of motion data for a user of the sensor device, and detection of the health event of the user based on the motion data;
initiate an emergency alert based on the message for the detected health event;
send, to a first destination, a first alert communication for the emergency alert, wherein the first alert communication includes information associated with the detected health event and location information associated with the user; and
send, to a second destination, a second alert communication for the emergency alert, wherein the second alert communication includes the information associated with the detected health event and the location information associated with the user. 27. The apparatus of claim 26, wherein the detected health event indicates a possible fall of the user of the sensor device. 28. The apparatus of claim 26, wherein the first alert communication and the second alert communication are automatically sent in response to initiation of the emergency alert. 29. The apparatus of claim 28, wherein the initiation of the emergency alert occurs after a predetermined time has elapsed. 30. The apparatus of claim 26, wherein the second alert communication occurs after completion of the first alert communication. 31. The apparatus of claim 26, wherein the emergency alert is cancellable in response to input from the user. 32. The apparatus of claim 26, wherein the first alert communication comprises an audio message. 33. The apparatus of claim 26, wherein the first destination is an entity located remote to a location of the user. 34. The apparatus of claim 26, wherein the second destination is a phone associated with another user. 35. The apparatus of claim 34, wherein the second alert communication comprises an SMS message. 36. At least one non-transitory machine-readable storage medium comprising instructions stored thereupon, which when executed by processing circuitry of a mobile computing device, cause the processing circuitry to perform operations comprising:
obtaining, from a sensor device using a low-power wireless protocol, a message for a detected health event, wherein the sensor device communicates the message to the mobile computing device based on: measurement of motion data for a user of the sensor device, and detection of the health event of the user based on the motion data; initiate an emergency alert based on the message for the detected health event; send, to a first destination, a first alert communication for the emergency alert, wherein the first alert communication includes information associated with the detected health event and location information associated with the user; and send, to a second destination, a second alert communication for the emergency alert, wherein the second alert communication includes the information associated with the detected health event and the location information associated with the user. 37. The machine-readable storage medium of claim 36, wherein the detected health event indicates a possible fall of the user of the sensor device. 38. The machine-readable storage medium of claim 36, wherein the first alert communication and the second alert communication are automatically sent in response to initiation of the emergency alert. 39. The machine-readable storage medium of claim 38, wherein the initiation of the emergency alert occurs after a predetermined time has elapsed. 40. The machine-readable storage medium of claim 36, wherein the second alert communication occurs after completion of the first alert communication. 41. The machine-readable storage medium of claim 36, wherein the emergency alert is cancellable in response to input from the user. 42. The machine-readable storage medium of claim 36, wherein the first alert communication comprises an audio message. 43. The machine-readable storage medium of claim 36, wherein the first destination is an entity located remote to a location of the user. 44. The machine-readable storage medium of claim 36, wherein the second destination is a phone associated with another user. 45. The machine-readable storage medium of claim 44, wherein the second alert communication comprises an SMS message. 46. A system, comprising:
a sensor device, comprising:
means for measuring motion data for a user of the sensor device;
means for detecting a health event of the user based on the motion data; and
means for communicating the detected health event;
a host device, comprising:
means for receiving, from the sensor device, a message for the detected health event;
means for initiating an emergency alert based on the message for the detected health event;
means for communicating, to a first destination, a first alert communication for the emergency alert, wherein the first alert communication includes information associated with the detected health event and location information associated with the user; and
means for communicating, to a second destination, a second alert communication for the emergency alert, wherein the second alert communication includes the information associated with the detected health event and the location information associated with the user. | 3,600 |
349,316 | 16,806,868 | 3,694 | Described is a spitball gun that is operable for collecting, wetting, and projecting paper ammunitions. The spitball gun includes a paper advancing chamber having an opening for receiving paper ammunition and an advancing mechanism for advancing paper through the paper advancing chamber to a loading chamber. A water tank is also connected with the loading chamber. A sliding handle is used to cause paper to be pulled through the paper advancing mechanism while water is released onto the paper from the water tank. A paper cutter is used to cut the paper and load the paper into the loading chamber. Finally, air from an attached air tank is used to expel a wetted paper wad from the loading chamber and through the barrel of the spitball gun. | 1. A spitball gun for use with paper ammunition, comprising:
a paper advancing chamber having an opening for receiving paper ammunition and an advancing mechanism for advancing paper through the paper advancing chamber; a loading chamber for receiving paper from the paper advancing chamber; an air tank fluidly connected with the loading chamber; a barrel connected with the loading chamber, whereby paper loaded into the loading chamber is expelled from the barrel by air from the air tank; a water tank fluidly connected with the loading chamber, the water tank having a water release mechanism; and a sliding handle operably connected with the advancing mechanism and the water release mechanism, such that sliding motion of the sliding handle causes paper to be pulled through the paper advancing mechanism while water is released onto the paper from the water tank. 2. The spitball gun as set forth in claim 1, further comprising a paper cutter housed within the spitball gun, the paper cutter positioned proximate the loading chamber to cut paper as loaded into the loading chamber. 3. The spitball gun as set forth in claim 2, further comprising:
a sliding rod attached with the sliding handle, the sliding rod having gear teeth; a gear train operably connected with the gear teeth of the sliding rod and the advancing mechanism; an elongated rod operably connected with the gear train, the elongated rod having a distal end operating as a loading plunger, such that sliding the sliding handle backwards cuts a piece of paper and, via the loading plunger, forces the paper into the loading chamber. 4. The spitball gun as set forth in claim 3, wherein the paper cutter is operably connected with the sliding handle such that motion of the sliding handle causes the paper cutter to slide into a cutting position. 5. The spitball gun as set forth in claim 4, wherein the elongated rod is spring loaded and further comprises a proximal end terminating with an air plunger. 6. The spitball gun as set forth in claim 1, further comprising:
a sliding rod attached with the sliding handle, the sliding rod having gear teeth; a gear train operably connected with the gear teeth of the sliding rod and the advancing mechanism; an elongated rod operably connected with the gear train, the elongated rod having a distal end operating as a loading plunger, such that sliding the sliding handle backwards cuts a piece of paper and, via the loading plunger, forces the paper into the loading chamber. 7. The spitball gun as set forth in claim 6, wherein the elongated rod is spring loaded and further comprises a proximal end terminating with an air plunger. | Described is a spitball gun that is operable for collecting, wetting, and projecting paper ammunitions. The spitball gun includes a paper advancing chamber having an opening for receiving paper ammunition and an advancing mechanism for advancing paper through the paper advancing chamber to a loading chamber. A water tank is also connected with the loading chamber. A sliding handle is used to cause paper to be pulled through the paper advancing mechanism while water is released onto the paper from the water tank. A paper cutter is used to cut the paper and load the paper into the loading chamber. Finally, air from an attached air tank is used to expel a wetted paper wad from the loading chamber and through the barrel of the spitball gun.1. A spitball gun for use with paper ammunition, comprising:
a paper advancing chamber having an opening for receiving paper ammunition and an advancing mechanism for advancing paper through the paper advancing chamber; a loading chamber for receiving paper from the paper advancing chamber; an air tank fluidly connected with the loading chamber; a barrel connected with the loading chamber, whereby paper loaded into the loading chamber is expelled from the barrel by air from the air tank; a water tank fluidly connected with the loading chamber, the water tank having a water release mechanism; and a sliding handle operably connected with the advancing mechanism and the water release mechanism, such that sliding motion of the sliding handle causes paper to be pulled through the paper advancing mechanism while water is released onto the paper from the water tank. 2. The spitball gun as set forth in claim 1, further comprising a paper cutter housed within the spitball gun, the paper cutter positioned proximate the loading chamber to cut paper as loaded into the loading chamber. 3. The spitball gun as set forth in claim 2, further comprising:
a sliding rod attached with the sliding handle, the sliding rod having gear teeth; a gear train operably connected with the gear teeth of the sliding rod and the advancing mechanism; an elongated rod operably connected with the gear train, the elongated rod having a distal end operating as a loading plunger, such that sliding the sliding handle backwards cuts a piece of paper and, via the loading plunger, forces the paper into the loading chamber. 4. The spitball gun as set forth in claim 3, wherein the paper cutter is operably connected with the sliding handle such that motion of the sliding handle causes the paper cutter to slide into a cutting position. 5. The spitball gun as set forth in claim 4, wherein the elongated rod is spring loaded and further comprises a proximal end terminating with an air plunger. 6. The spitball gun as set forth in claim 1, further comprising:
a sliding rod attached with the sliding handle, the sliding rod having gear teeth; a gear train operably connected with the gear teeth of the sliding rod and the advancing mechanism; an elongated rod operably connected with the gear train, the elongated rod having a distal end operating as a loading plunger, such that sliding the sliding handle backwards cuts a piece of paper and, via the loading plunger, forces the paper into the loading chamber. 7. The spitball gun as set forth in claim 6, wherein the elongated rod is spring loaded and further comprises a proximal end terminating with an air plunger. | 3,600 |
349,317 | 16,806,873 | 3,694 | Systems and methods for communication between near field communication devices within a target communication region using near field magnetic induction is disclosed. One method comprises generating a near field detectable signal at an active node having a power level sufficient to enable communication with a plurality of near field communication nodes located within the target communication region. Information is modulated onto the near field detectable signal using at least one of the near field communication nodes. The modulated information is detected at the active node. The information is then relayed on the near field detectable signal from the active node to at least one of the plurality of near field communication nodes within the target communication region. | 1. A system for communication between near field communication devices within a target communication region using near field magnetic induction, comprising:
an active node with a near field magnetic induction transducer configured to generate a near field detectable signal within a target communication region; and a plurality of near field communication nodes located within the target communication region that are configured to sense the near field detectable signal and modulate information onto the near field detectable signal, wherein the active node is configured to detect the information modulated onto the near field detectable signal and relay the information to at least one of the plurality of near field communication nodes using the near field detectable signal to enable the plurality of near field communication nodes to send information to selected near field communication nodes within the target region through the active node. 2. The system of claim 1, wherein the active node has a power level at least 10 times greater than a power level consumed by a near field communication node located within the target communication region. 3. The system of claim 1, wherein the active node is configured to generate the near field detectable signal at a power level greater than 1 kilowatt. 4. The system of claim 1, wherein the active node is configured to generate the near field detectable signal at a power level greater than 100 kilowatts. 5. The system of claim 1, wherein the near field magnetic induction transducer is configured to generate the near field detectable signal at a frequency having a wavelength that is at least 2pi times greater than a distance between the active node and the plurality of near field communication nodes. 6. The system of claim 5, wherein the target communication region has a perimeter with a distance from the active node that is less than 2pi times the wavelength of the near field detectable signal. 7. The system of claim 1, wherein each of the plurality of communication nodes are configured to modulate the information onto the near field detectable signal using load modulation. 8. The system of claim 1, wherein the active node is configured to relay the information onto the near field detectable signal by varying a characteristic of the near field detectable signal, with the characteristic selected from the group consisting of a frequency, a phase, an amplitude, and combinations thereof. 9. The system of claim 1, wherein each of the plurality of communication nodes are identifiable with a predetermined address to enable the active node to communicate with one or more of the plurality of near field communication nodes. 10. The system of claim 1, wherein the active node is further configured to encrypt the relayed information such that it can only be decrypted by one or more selected near field communication nodes. 11. The system of claim 1, wherein each of the plurality of communication nodes are configured to encrypt the information such that it can only be decrypted by one or more of the active node and selected near field communication nodes. 12. The system of claim 1, wherein the active node is further configured to communicate with additional active nodes to enable data from a first active node to be passed through a second active node to a third active node that is outside of the first active node's range. 13. The system of claim 1, wherein at least one of the plurality of near field communication nodes has a plurality of mutually orthogonal antennas, wherein at least one of the mutually orthogonal antennas are operable to extract information from the near field detectable signal and modulate information onto the near field detectable signal. 14. The system of claim 1, wherein the active node has a plurality of mutually orthogonal antennas, wherein at least one of the mutually orthogonal antennas are operable to extract information from the near field detectable signal and modulate information onto the near field detectable signal. 15. The system of claim 1, wherein the plurality of near field communication nodes comprise a personal area network. 16. The system of claim 1, wherein the plurality of near field communication nodes comprise a mesh network. 17. A method for communication between near field communication devices within a target communication region using near field magnetic induction, comprising:
generating a near field detectable signal at an active node having a power level sufficient to enable communication with a plurality of near field communication nodes located within the target communication region; modulating information onto the near field detectable signal using at least one of the plurality of near field communication nodes; detecting the modulated information at the active node; and relaying the information on the near field detectable signal from the active node to at least one of the plurality of near field communication nodes within the target communication region. 18. The method of claim 17, further comprising generating the near field detectable signal at the active node having a power level of greater than 1 kilowatt. 19. The method of claim 17, further comprising generating the near field detectable signal at the active node having a power level of greater than 100 kilowatts. 20. The method of claim 17, further comprising generating the near field detectable signal at a frequency having a wavelength that is at least 2pi times greater than a distance between the active node and the plurality of near field communication nodes. | Systems and methods for communication between near field communication devices within a target communication region using near field magnetic induction is disclosed. One method comprises generating a near field detectable signal at an active node having a power level sufficient to enable communication with a plurality of near field communication nodes located within the target communication region. Information is modulated onto the near field detectable signal using at least one of the near field communication nodes. The modulated information is detected at the active node. The information is then relayed on the near field detectable signal from the active node to at least one of the plurality of near field communication nodes within the target communication region.1. A system for communication between near field communication devices within a target communication region using near field magnetic induction, comprising:
an active node with a near field magnetic induction transducer configured to generate a near field detectable signal within a target communication region; and a plurality of near field communication nodes located within the target communication region that are configured to sense the near field detectable signal and modulate information onto the near field detectable signal, wherein the active node is configured to detect the information modulated onto the near field detectable signal and relay the information to at least one of the plurality of near field communication nodes using the near field detectable signal to enable the plurality of near field communication nodes to send information to selected near field communication nodes within the target region through the active node. 2. The system of claim 1, wherein the active node has a power level at least 10 times greater than a power level consumed by a near field communication node located within the target communication region. 3. The system of claim 1, wherein the active node is configured to generate the near field detectable signal at a power level greater than 1 kilowatt. 4. The system of claim 1, wherein the active node is configured to generate the near field detectable signal at a power level greater than 100 kilowatts. 5. The system of claim 1, wherein the near field magnetic induction transducer is configured to generate the near field detectable signal at a frequency having a wavelength that is at least 2pi times greater than a distance between the active node and the plurality of near field communication nodes. 6. The system of claim 5, wherein the target communication region has a perimeter with a distance from the active node that is less than 2pi times the wavelength of the near field detectable signal. 7. The system of claim 1, wherein each of the plurality of communication nodes are configured to modulate the information onto the near field detectable signal using load modulation. 8. The system of claim 1, wherein the active node is configured to relay the information onto the near field detectable signal by varying a characteristic of the near field detectable signal, with the characteristic selected from the group consisting of a frequency, a phase, an amplitude, and combinations thereof. 9. The system of claim 1, wherein each of the plurality of communication nodes are identifiable with a predetermined address to enable the active node to communicate with one or more of the plurality of near field communication nodes. 10. The system of claim 1, wherein the active node is further configured to encrypt the relayed information such that it can only be decrypted by one or more selected near field communication nodes. 11. The system of claim 1, wherein each of the plurality of communication nodes are configured to encrypt the information such that it can only be decrypted by one or more of the active node and selected near field communication nodes. 12. The system of claim 1, wherein the active node is further configured to communicate with additional active nodes to enable data from a first active node to be passed through a second active node to a third active node that is outside of the first active node's range. 13. The system of claim 1, wherein at least one of the plurality of near field communication nodes has a plurality of mutually orthogonal antennas, wherein at least one of the mutually orthogonal antennas are operable to extract information from the near field detectable signal and modulate information onto the near field detectable signal. 14. The system of claim 1, wherein the active node has a plurality of mutually orthogonal antennas, wherein at least one of the mutually orthogonal antennas are operable to extract information from the near field detectable signal and modulate information onto the near field detectable signal. 15. The system of claim 1, wherein the plurality of near field communication nodes comprise a personal area network. 16. The system of claim 1, wherein the plurality of near field communication nodes comprise a mesh network. 17. A method for communication between near field communication devices within a target communication region using near field magnetic induction, comprising:
generating a near field detectable signal at an active node having a power level sufficient to enable communication with a plurality of near field communication nodes located within the target communication region; modulating information onto the near field detectable signal using at least one of the plurality of near field communication nodes; detecting the modulated information at the active node; and relaying the information on the near field detectable signal from the active node to at least one of the plurality of near field communication nodes within the target communication region. 18. The method of claim 17, further comprising generating the near field detectable signal at the active node having a power level of greater than 1 kilowatt. 19. The method of claim 17, further comprising generating the near field detectable signal at the active node having a power level of greater than 100 kilowatts. 20. The method of claim 17, further comprising generating the near field detectable signal at a frequency having a wavelength that is at least 2pi times greater than a distance between the active node and the plurality of near field communication nodes. | 3,600 |
349,318 | 16,806,895 | 3,694 | There is described a device for managing communications comprising a sensor, first and second antennas, and first and second shields. The sensor has a field of view and includes a first side and a second side, in which the second side is substantially opposite the first side. The first antenna is positioned offset from the first side of the sensor, and the second antenna is positioned offset from the second side of the sensor. The first shield is positioned adjacent to the first side of the sensor and a first distance from the first antenna, and the second shield is positioned adjacent to the second side of the sensor and a second distance from the second antenna. The first shield focuses the first antenna toward the field of view, and the second shield focuses the second antenna toward the field of view. | 1. A device for managing communications comprising:
a sensor having a field of view, the sensor including a first side and a second side, the second side being substantially opposite the first side; a first antenna positioned offset from the first side of the sensor; a second antenna positioned offset from the second side of the sensor; a first shield positioned adjacent to the first side of the sensor and a first distance from the first antenna, the first shield directing the first antenna toward the field of view; and a second shield positioned adjacent to the second side of the sensor and a second distance from the second antenna, the second shield directing the second antenna toward the field of view. 2. The device as described in claim 1, wherein the offset of the second antenna from the second side of the sensor is substantially similar to the offset of the first antenna from the first side of the sensor. 3. The device as described in claim 1, wherein the first and second distances are substantially similar. 4. The device as described in claim 3, wherein the first and second shields are located within a common two-dimensional plane. 5. The device as described in claim 1, the first and second antennas are similar in shape but extend structurally in opposing directions. 6. The device as described in claim 1, wherein the first shield has a first inner edge adjacent to a first portion of an outer surface of the sensor and the second shield has a second inner edge adjacent to a second portion of the outer surface of the sensor, the second portion being substantially opposite to the first portion. 7. The device as described in claim 1, wherein a substantial portion of the first antenna follows an outer boundary of the first shield and a substantial portion of the second antenna follows an outer boundary of the second shield. 8. The device as described in claim 1, further comprising a circuit coupled to the sensor, the first antenna, and the second antenna, and a ground coupled to the first and second shields. 9. The device as described in claim 1, wherein the sensor is a motion sensor. 10. The device as described in claim 1, wherein the first and second antennas operate for different wireless technologies. 11. A device for managing communications comprising:
a circuit board having a first side and a second side, the second side being substantially opposite the first side; a sensor positioned adjacent to the circuit board, the sensor including a body supported by the circuit board and a front end extending from the body; a first antenna coupled to the first side of the circuit board and positioned proximal to the front end of the sensor and offset from the first side of the circuit board; a second antenna coupled to the second side of the circuit board and positioned proximal to the front end of the sensor and offset from the second side of the circuit board; a first shield positioned adjacent to an outer surface of the sensor and a first distance from the first antenna; and a second shield positioned adjacent to the outer surface of the sensor and a second distance from the second antenna. 12. The device as described in claim 11, wherein the offset of the second antenna from the second side of the circuit board is substantially similar to the offset of the first antenna from the first side of the circuit board. 13. The device as described in claim 11, wherein the first and second distances are substantially similar. 14. The device as described in claim 13, wherein the first and second shields are located within a common two-dimensional plane. 15. The device as described in claim 11, wherein the first and second antennas are similar in shape but extend structurally in opposing directions. 16. The device as described in claim 11, wherein the first shield has a first inner edge adjacent to a first portion of the outer surface of the sensor and the second shield has a second inner edge adjacent to a second portion of the outer surface of the sensor, the second portion being substantially opposite to the first portion. 17. The device as described in claim 11, wherein a substantial portion of the first antenna follows an outer boundary of the first shield and a substantial portion of the second antenna follows an outer boundary of the second shield. 18. The device as described in claim 11, wherein a ground is coupled to the first and second shields. 19. The device as described in claim 11, wherein the sensor is mounted to an edge of the circuit board and extends symmetrically beyond the first and second sides of the circuit board. 20. The device as described in claim 11, wherein the front end of the sensor includes a sensor lens directed away from the circuit board in a direction parallel to the first and second sides of the circuit board. | There is described a device for managing communications comprising a sensor, first and second antennas, and first and second shields. The sensor has a field of view and includes a first side and a second side, in which the second side is substantially opposite the first side. The first antenna is positioned offset from the first side of the sensor, and the second antenna is positioned offset from the second side of the sensor. The first shield is positioned adjacent to the first side of the sensor and a first distance from the first antenna, and the second shield is positioned adjacent to the second side of the sensor and a second distance from the second antenna. The first shield focuses the first antenna toward the field of view, and the second shield focuses the second antenna toward the field of view.1. A device for managing communications comprising:
a sensor having a field of view, the sensor including a first side and a second side, the second side being substantially opposite the first side; a first antenna positioned offset from the first side of the sensor; a second antenna positioned offset from the second side of the sensor; a first shield positioned adjacent to the first side of the sensor and a first distance from the first antenna, the first shield directing the first antenna toward the field of view; and a second shield positioned adjacent to the second side of the sensor and a second distance from the second antenna, the second shield directing the second antenna toward the field of view. 2. The device as described in claim 1, wherein the offset of the second antenna from the second side of the sensor is substantially similar to the offset of the first antenna from the first side of the sensor. 3. The device as described in claim 1, wherein the first and second distances are substantially similar. 4. The device as described in claim 3, wherein the first and second shields are located within a common two-dimensional plane. 5. The device as described in claim 1, the first and second antennas are similar in shape but extend structurally in opposing directions. 6. The device as described in claim 1, wherein the first shield has a first inner edge adjacent to a first portion of an outer surface of the sensor and the second shield has a second inner edge adjacent to a second portion of the outer surface of the sensor, the second portion being substantially opposite to the first portion. 7. The device as described in claim 1, wherein a substantial portion of the first antenna follows an outer boundary of the first shield and a substantial portion of the second antenna follows an outer boundary of the second shield. 8. The device as described in claim 1, further comprising a circuit coupled to the sensor, the first antenna, and the second antenna, and a ground coupled to the first and second shields. 9. The device as described in claim 1, wherein the sensor is a motion sensor. 10. The device as described in claim 1, wherein the first and second antennas operate for different wireless technologies. 11. A device for managing communications comprising:
a circuit board having a first side and a second side, the second side being substantially opposite the first side; a sensor positioned adjacent to the circuit board, the sensor including a body supported by the circuit board and a front end extending from the body; a first antenna coupled to the first side of the circuit board and positioned proximal to the front end of the sensor and offset from the first side of the circuit board; a second antenna coupled to the second side of the circuit board and positioned proximal to the front end of the sensor and offset from the second side of the circuit board; a first shield positioned adjacent to an outer surface of the sensor and a first distance from the first antenna; and a second shield positioned adjacent to the outer surface of the sensor and a second distance from the second antenna. 12. The device as described in claim 11, wherein the offset of the second antenna from the second side of the circuit board is substantially similar to the offset of the first antenna from the first side of the circuit board. 13. The device as described in claim 11, wherein the first and second distances are substantially similar. 14. The device as described in claim 13, wherein the first and second shields are located within a common two-dimensional plane. 15. The device as described in claim 11, wherein the first and second antennas are similar in shape but extend structurally in opposing directions. 16. The device as described in claim 11, wherein the first shield has a first inner edge adjacent to a first portion of the outer surface of the sensor and the second shield has a second inner edge adjacent to a second portion of the outer surface of the sensor, the second portion being substantially opposite to the first portion. 17. The device as described in claim 11, wherein a substantial portion of the first antenna follows an outer boundary of the first shield and a substantial portion of the second antenna follows an outer boundary of the second shield. 18. The device as described in claim 11, wherein a ground is coupled to the first and second shields. 19. The device as described in claim 11, wherein the sensor is mounted to an edge of the circuit board and extends symmetrically beyond the first and second sides of the circuit board. 20. The device as described in claim 11, wherein the front end of the sensor includes a sensor lens directed away from the circuit board in a direction parallel to the first and second sides of the circuit board. | 3,600 |
349,319 | 16,806,909 | 2,443 | System for ontological evaluation and filtering of digital content evaluates metadata associated with content available from an original content server. The metadata is filtered and evaluated by a processing cluster to develop correlation among content for the formation of content “channels”. In general, the filtering and evaluation criteria use predictive algorithms and seek to identify content that is likely to be desired for download by the consumers located at, for example, a particular multi-dwelling unit. The content, once so correlated, is then grouped or aggregated into “channels”. | 1. (canceled) 2. A system for deriving ontological relevancies of digital content to provide the content to a client device connected to a local network at extremely fast data rates without at least some of the delays and latency associated with conventional internet downloads comprising:
a metadata processing cluster in a central processing cloud for evaluating metadata associated with at least some content available across a network from an original content server, at least in part using predictive algorithms on the result of past usage characteristics of at least some users associated with the central processing cloud the central processing cloud configured to process, in response to the evaluating step, content that is likely to be desired for download at a network location sufficiently remote from the original content server that a request to the original content server will result in significant latency in delivering that content to a user, and a local content store for storing content that is likely to be desired for download into one or more channels configured to be stored on a local content store located more proximate to a user device than the original content server and connected substantially locally thereto such that at least a portion of the requested content on the local content store is delivered to the user device without the delays and latency typical of conventional internet downloads 3. The system of claim 2 wherein the predictive algorithms develop ontological correlations among the content likely to be desired for download and the past usage characteristics. 4. The system of claim 2 wherein all personal data associated with the requested content is anonymized. 5. The system of claim 2 wherein the local content store comprises a network appliance. 6. The system of claim 2 wherein the local content store comprises a plurality of network appliances. 7. The system of claim 6 wherein the local content store further comprises a regional appliance. 8. The system of claim 7 wherein the regional appliance and plurality of network appliances form a tiered network. 9. The system of claim 2 wherein the local content store comprises a content node. 10. A method for providing content to a client device connected to a local network at extremely fast data rates without at least some of the delays and latency associated with conventional internet downloads comprising the steps of:
evaluating in a computer metadata associated with at least some content available across a network from at least one original content server, assessing, in a computer, new requests for content available from the at least one original content server, at a remote server, and in response to the evaluating and assessing steps, applying to the new requests predictive algorithms based at least in part on the result of past usage characteristics of at least some users content that is likely to be desired for download at a network location sufficiently remote from the original content server that a request to the original content server will result in significant latency in delivering that content to a user, and storing on a local content store, in response to the applying step, selected elements of requested content into one or more channels of aggregated content, where the local content store is located more proximate to a user device than the original content server and connected substantially locally thereto such that at least a portion of the requested content on the local content store is delivered to the user device without the delays and latency typical of conventional internet downloads. 11. The method of claim 10 further comprising the step of determining whether at least a portion of the requested content already is stored in at least one channel. 12. The method of claim 10 further comprising the step of maintaining on the local content store some non-channel content. 13. The method of claim 10 further comprising the step of determining whether the request for content originates from a blacklisted address. 14. The method of claim 10 further comprising the step of anonymizing the identification of a user making a request for content while at the same time providing information as to the location from which the request originated. 15. The method of claim 14 wherein the blurring occurs at a local appliance rather than at the remote server. 16. The method of claim 10 wherein destination and host information associated with a request for content is identified from packet and protocol headers. | System for ontological evaluation and filtering of digital content evaluates metadata associated with content available from an original content server. The metadata is filtered and evaluated by a processing cluster to develop correlation among content for the formation of content “channels”. In general, the filtering and evaluation criteria use predictive algorithms and seek to identify content that is likely to be desired for download by the consumers located at, for example, a particular multi-dwelling unit. The content, once so correlated, is then grouped or aggregated into “channels”.1. (canceled) 2. A system for deriving ontological relevancies of digital content to provide the content to a client device connected to a local network at extremely fast data rates without at least some of the delays and latency associated with conventional internet downloads comprising:
a metadata processing cluster in a central processing cloud for evaluating metadata associated with at least some content available across a network from an original content server, at least in part using predictive algorithms on the result of past usage characteristics of at least some users associated with the central processing cloud the central processing cloud configured to process, in response to the evaluating step, content that is likely to be desired for download at a network location sufficiently remote from the original content server that a request to the original content server will result in significant latency in delivering that content to a user, and a local content store for storing content that is likely to be desired for download into one or more channels configured to be stored on a local content store located more proximate to a user device than the original content server and connected substantially locally thereto such that at least a portion of the requested content on the local content store is delivered to the user device without the delays and latency typical of conventional internet downloads 3. The system of claim 2 wherein the predictive algorithms develop ontological correlations among the content likely to be desired for download and the past usage characteristics. 4. The system of claim 2 wherein all personal data associated with the requested content is anonymized. 5. The system of claim 2 wherein the local content store comprises a network appliance. 6. The system of claim 2 wherein the local content store comprises a plurality of network appliances. 7. The system of claim 6 wherein the local content store further comprises a regional appliance. 8. The system of claim 7 wherein the regional appliance and plurality of network appliances form a tiered network. 9. The system of claim 2 wherein the local content store comprises a content node. 10. A method for providing content to a client device connected to a local network at extremely fast data rates without at least some of the delays and latency associated with conventional internet downloads comprising the steps of:
evaluating in a computer metadata associated with at least some content available across a network from at least one original content server, assessing, in a computer, new requests for content available from the at least one original content server, at a remote server, and in response to the evaluating and assessing steps, applying to the new requests predictive algorithms based at least in part on the result of past usage characteristics of at least some users content that is likely to be desired for download at a network location sufficiently remote from the original content server that a request to the original content server will result in significant latency in delivering that content to a user, and storing on a local content store, in response to the applying step, selected elements of requested content into one or more channels of aggregated content, where the local content store is located more proximate to a user device than the original content server and connected substantially locally thereto such that at least a portion of the requested content on the local content store is delivered to the user device without the delays and latency typical of conventional internet downloads. 11. The method of claim 10 further comprising the step of determining whether at least a portion of the requested content already is stored in at least one channel. 12. The method of claim 10 further comprising the step of maintaining on the local content store some non-channel content. 13. The method of claim 10 further comprising the step of determining whether the request for content originates from a blacklisted address. 14. The method of claim 10 further comprising the step of anonymizing the identification of a user making a request for content while at the same time providing information as to the location from which the request originated. 15. The method of claim 14 wherein the blurring occurs at a local appliance rather than at the remote server. 16. The method of claim 10 wherein destination and host information associated with a request for content is identified from packet and protocol headers. | 2,400 |
349,320 | 16,806,894 | 2,443 | A surface roughness analysis system and methods of analyzing surface roughness of a workpiece are presented. The surface roughness analysis system comprises a number of wave generators; a number of wave sensors; and an ultrasonic analysis system configured to receive material mechanical parameters for a workpiece, determine incident surface wave signal parameters for a source signal to be sent by the number of wave generators, and determine a cut-off wavelength using the material mechanical parameters, wherein the cut-off wavelength is a ratio of surface wavelength over incident wavelength. | 1. A surface roughness analysis system comprising:
an ultrasonic analysis system configured to receive material mechanical parameters for a workpiece, determine incident surface wave signal parameters for a source signal to be sent by a number of wave generators, and determine a designated distance for a number of wave sensors from the number of wave generators such that the number of wave sensors receiving a surface wave of a threshold value indicates a surface roughness within a roughness threshold. 2. The surface roughness analysis system of claim 1, wherein the ultrasonic analysis system is further configured to determine a cut-off wavelength using the material mechanical parameters, wherein the cut-off wavelength is a ratio of surface wavelength over incident wavelength, and wherein the designated distance is determined based on the cut-off wavelength. 3. The surface roughness analysis system of claim 2, wherein the cut-off wavelength is approximately 0.5. 4. The surface roughness analysis system of claim 1, further comprising:
the number of wave generators configured to send a source signal having the signal parameters into a workpiece; and the number of wave sensors positioned at least the designated distance from the number of wave generators. 5. The surface roughness analysis system of claim 3, wherein the number of wave sensors comprises a series of wave sensors, each wave sensor of the series of wave sensors having a different distance from a wave generator of the number of wave generators in a second direction of a surface of the workpiece. 6. The surface roughness analysis system of claim 3, wherein the number of wave generators comprises a plurality of wave generators spaced across a surface of the workpiece in a first direction. 7. The surface roughness analysis system of claim 3, wherein the number of wave sensors is positioned at least a designated distance from the number of wave generators to detect surface waves from a workpiece, wherein the designated distance is selected based on cut-off wavelength calculated by the ultrasonic analysis system. 8. The surface roughness analysis system of claim 3 further comprising:
a roughness evaluator configured to determine if the surface roughness of the workpiece is below a roughness threshold based on a surface wave sensed by number of wave sensors. 9. A method of analyzing surface roughness of a workpiece, the method comprising:
receiving material mechanical parameters of the workpiece; determining signal parameters for a source signal to be sent into a workpiece using the material mechanical parameters; and determining a designated distance for a number of wave sensors from a number of wave generators such that the number of wave sensors receiving a surface wave of a threshold value indicates a surface roughness within a roughness threshold. 10. The method of claim 9 further comprising:
determining a cut-off wavelength using the material mechanical parameters, wherein the cut-off wavelength is a ratio of surface wavelength over incident wavelength, and wherein the designated distance is determined based on the cut-off wavelength. 11. The method of claim 10 further comprising:
sending a plurality of source signals having the signal parameters into the workpiece at a plurality of source locations of the workpiece using a plurality of pulsers and a plurality of wave generators, wherein sending the source signal into the workpiece is one of the plurality of source signals sent into the workpiece; and
wherein determining if the surface roughness of the workpiece is within a roughness threshold comprises determining if the surface roughness in a plurality of locations of the workpiece is within a roughness threshold for at least one of roughness width or roughness height based on output of the number of wave sensors. 12. The method of claim 11, wherein the plurality of locations is spread in a first direction of the workpiece, and wherein the plurality of source signals is spread across the workpiece in the first direction. 13. The method of claim 9 further comprising:
sending the source signal having the signal parameters into the workpiece using a pulser and wave generator; and
determining if the surface roughness of the workpiece is within a roughness threshold for at least one of roughness width or roughness height based on output of a number of wave sensors. 14. The method of claim 13 further comprising:
orienting the wave generator relative to the workpiece to send the source signal into the workpiece at a source location; and
orienting at least one wave sensor of the number of wave sensors relative to the workpiece to sense waves a designated distance from the source location. 15. The method of claim 14 further comprising:
orienting the number of wave sensors relative to the workpiece such that the number of wave sensors is oriented to sense waves at at least two different distances from the source location. 16. The method of claim 15, wherein determining if the surface roughness of the workpiece is within a roughness threshold comprises determining if the surface roughness in a plurality of locations of the workpiece is within a roughness threshold for at least one of roughness width or roughness height based on output of the number of wave sensors. 17. The method of claim 16, wherein determining if the surface roughness in a plurality of locations of the workpiece is within a roughness threshold comprises determining if surface roughness in a plurality of locations spread in a second direction of the workpiece is within a roughness threshold, and wherein the second direction extends through the at least two different distances. 18. A method of analyzing surface roughness of a workpiece, the method comprising:
determining signal parameters for a source signal to be sent into a workpiece by a number of wave generators for analyzing the surface roughness of the workpiece; determining a cut-off wavelength using material mechanical parameters of the workpiece, wherein the cut-off wavelength is a ratio of surface wavelength over incident wavelength; and determining, using the cut-off wavelength, a designated distance for a number of wave sensors from the number of wave generators such that the number of wave sensors receiving a surface wave of a threshold value indicates a surface roughness within a roughness threshold. 19. The method of claim 18 further comprising:
positioning a number of wave sensors relative to the workpiece to sense waves at least a designated distance from a respective wave generator of a number of wave generators based on the cut-off wavelength;
sending a number of source signals having the signal parameters into the workpiece at a number of source locations using the number of wave generators;
sensing surface waves by the number of wave sensors to generate sensor output; and
determining if the surface roughness of the workpiece is within a roughness threshold based on the sensor output. 20. The method of claim 18, wherein the surface roughness is within a roughness threshold if the surface waves sensed by the number of wave sensors meet a minimum strength value. 21. The method of claim 18, wherein determining if the surface roughness is within a roughness threshold comprises determining if the surface roughness in a plurality of locations of the workpiece is within a roughness threshold for at least one of roughness width or roughness height based on output of the number of wave sensors. 22. The method of claim 18, wherein positioning the number of wave sensors comprises positioning the number of wave sensors relative to the workpiece such that the number of wave sensors is oriented to sense waves at at least two different distances from a wave generator of the number of wave generators. 23. The method of claim 22, wherein determining if the surface roughness in a plurality of locations of the workpiece is within a roughness threshold comprises determining if surface roughness in a plurality of locations spread in a second direction of the workpiece is within a roughness threshold, and wherein the second direction extends through the at least two different distances. 24. The method of claim 18 further comprising:
sending a plurality of source signals having the signal parameters into the workpiece at a plurality of source locations of the workpiece using a plurality of pulsers and a plurality of wave generators, wherein sending the source signal into the workpiece is one of the plurality of source signals sent into the workpiece; and
wherein determining if the surface roughness of the workpiece is within a roughness threshold comprises determining if the surface roughness in a plurality of locations of the workpiece is within a roughness threshold for at least one of roughness width or roughness height based on output of the number of wave sensors. 25. The method of claim 24, wherein the plurality of locations is spread in a first direction of the workpiece, and wherein the plurality of source signals is spread across the workpiece in the first direction. 26. A surface roughness analysis system comprising:
an ultrasonic analysis system configured to receive material mechanical parameters for a workpiece, determine incident surface wave signal parameters for a source signal to be sent by a number of wave generators, and determine a designated distance for a number of wave sensors from the number of wave generators such that the number of wave sensors receiving a surface wave of a threshold value indicates a surface roughness within a roughness threshold; the number of wave generators configured to send a source signal having the signal parameters into a workpiece; the number of wave sensors positioned at least the designated distance from the number of wave generators; and a roughness evaluator configured to determine if the surface roughness of the workpiece is below a roughness threshold based on a surface wave sensed by number of wave sensors. 27. The surface roughness analysis system of claim 26, wherein the number of wave sensors comprises a series of wave sensors, each wave sensor of the series of wave sensors having a different distance from a wave generator of the number of wave generators in a second direction of a surface of the workpiece. 28. The surface roughness analysis system of claim 26, wherein the number of wave generators comprises a plurality of wave generators spaced across a surface of the workpiece in a first direction. 29. The surface roughness analysis system of claim 26, wherein the number of wave sensors is positioned at least a designated distance from the number of wave generators to detect surface waves from a workpiece, wherein the designated distance is selected based on a cut-off wavelength calculated by the ultrasonic analysis system. 30. The surface roughness analysis system of claim 29, wherein the cut-off wavelength is approximately 0.5. 31. A surface roughness analysis system comprising:
a number of wave generators configured to send a source signal having signal parameters into a workpiece, the signal parameters calculated to generate a surface wave in the workpiece; a number of wave sensors oriented to receive surface waves from the workpiece and positioned at least a designated distance from the number of wave generators, wherein the designated distance is such that receiving a surface wave of a threshold value at the number of wave sensors indicates a surface roughness within a roughness threshold; and a roughness evaluator configured to determine if the surface roughness of the workpiece is below a roughness threshold based on a presence or absence of a surface wave sensed by number of wave sensors. | A surface roughness analysis system and methods of analyzing surface roughness of a workpiece are presented. The surface roughness analysis system comprises a number of wave generators; a number of wave sensors; and an ultrasonic analysis system configured to receive material mechanical parameters for a workpiece, determine incident surface wave signal parameters for a source signal to be sent by the number of wave generators, and determine a cut-off wavelength using the material mechanical parameters, wherein the cut-off wavelength is a ratio of surface wavelength over incident wavelength.1. A surface roughness analysis system comprising:
an ultrasonic analysis system configured to receive material mechanical parameters for a workpiece, determine incident surface wave signal parameters for a source signal to be sent by a number of wave generators, and determine a designated distance for a number of wave sensors from the number of wave generators such that the number of wave sensors receiving a surface wave of a threshold value indicates a surface roughness within a roughness threshold. 2. The surface roughness analysis system of claim 1, wherein the ultrasonic analysis system is further configured to determine a cut-off wavelength using the material mechanical parameters, wherein the cut-off wavelength is a ratio of surface wavelength over incident wavelength, and wherein the designated distance is determined based on the cut-off wavelength. 3. The surface roughness analysis system of claim 2, wherein the cut-off wavelength is approximately 0.5. 4. The surface roughness analysis system of claim 1, further comprising:
the number of wave generators configured to send a source signal having the signal parameters into a workpiece; and the number of wave sensors positioned at least the designated distance from the number of wave generators. 5. The surface roughness analysis system of claim 3, wherein the number of wave sensors comprises a series of wave sensors, each wave sensor of the series of wave sensors having a different distance from a wave generator of the number of wave generators in a second direction of a surface of the workpiece. 6. The surface roughness analysis system of claim 3, wherein the number of wave generators comprises a plurality of wave generators spaced across a surface of the workpiece in a first direction. 7. The surface roughness analysis system of claim 3, wherein the number of wave sensors is positioned at least a designated distance from the number of wave generators to detect surface waves from a workpiece, wherein the designated distance is selected based on cut-off wavelength calculated by the ultrasonic analysis system. 8. The surface roughness analysis system of claim 3 further comprising:
a roughness evaluator configured to determine if the surface roughness of the workpiece is below a roughness threshold based on a surface wave sensed by number of wave sensors. 9. A method of analyzing surface roughness of a workpiece, the method comprising:
receiving material mechanical parameters of the workpiece; determining signal parameters for a source signal to be sent into a workpiece using the material mechanical parameters; and determining a designated distance for a number of wave sensors from a number of wave generators such that the number of wave sensors receiving a surface wave of a threshold value indicates a surface roughness within a roughness threshold. 10. The method of claim 9 further comprising:
determining a cut-off wavelength using the material mechanical parameters, wherein the cut-off wavelength is a ratio of surface wavelength over incident wavelength, and wherein the designated distance is determined based on the cut-off wavelength. 11. The method of claim 10 further comprising:
sending a plurality of source signals having the signal parameters into the workpiece at a plurality of source locations of the workpiece using a plurality of pulsers and a plurality of wave generators, wherein sending the source signal into the workpiece is one of the plurality of source signals sent into the workpiece; and
wherein determining if the surface roughness of the workpiece is within a roughness threshold comprises determining if the surface roughness in a plurality of locations of the workpiece is within a roughness threshold for at least one of roughness width or roughness height based on output of the number of wave sensors. 12. The method of claim 11, wherein the plurality of locations is spread in a first direction of the workpiece, and wherein the plurality of source signals is spread across the workpiece in the first direction. 13. The method of claim 9 further comprising:
sending the source signal having the signal parameters into the workpiece using a pulser and wave generator; and
determining if the surface roughness of the workpiece is within a roughness threshold for at least one of roughness width or roughness height based on output of a number of wave sensors. 14. The method of claim 13 further comprising:
orienting the wave generator relative to the workpiece to send the source signal into the workpiece at a source location; and
orienting at least one wave sensor of the number of wave sensors relative to the workpiece to sense waves a designated distance from the source location. 15. The method of claim 14 further comprising:
orienting the number of wave sensors relative to the workpiece such that the number of wave sensors is oriented to sense waves at at least two different distances from the source location. 16. The method of claim 15, wherein determining if the surface roughness of the workpiece is within a roughness threshold comprises determining if the surface roughness in a plurality of locations of the workpiece is within a roughness threshold for at least one of roughness width or roughness height based on output of the number of wave sensors. 17. The method of claim 16, wherein determining if the surface roughness in a plurality of locations of the workpiece is within a roughness threshold comprises determining if surface roughness in a plurality of locations spread in a second direction of the workpiece is within a roughness threshold, and wherein the second direction extends through the at least two different distances. 18. A method of analyzing surface roughness of a workpiece, the method comprising:
determining signal parameters for a source signal to be sent into a workpiece by a number of wave generators for analyzing the surface roughness of the workpiece; determining a cut-off wavelength using material mechanical parameters of the workpiece, wherein the cut-off wavelength is a ratio of surface wavelength over incident wavelength; and determining, using the cut-off wavelength, a designated distance for a number of wave sensors from the number of wave generators such that the number of wave sensors receiving a surface wave of a threshold value indicates a surface roughness within a roughness threshold. 19. The method of claim 18 further comprising:
positioning a number of wave sensors relative to the workpiece to sense waves at least a designated distance from a respective wave generator of a number of wave generators based on the cut-off wavelength;
sending a number of source signals having the signal parameters into the workpiece at a number of source locations using the number of wave generators;
sensing surface waves by the number of wave sensors to generate sensor output; and
determining if the surface roughness of the workpiece is within a roughness threshold based on the sensor output. 20. The method of claim 18, wherein the surface roughness is within a roughness threshold if the surface waves sensed by the number of wave sensors meet a minimum strength value. 21. The method of claim 18, wherein determining if the surface roughness is within a roughness threshold comprises determining if the surface roughness in a plurality of locations of the workpiece is within a roughness threshold for at least one of roughness width or roughness height based on output of the number of wave sensors. 22. The method of claim 18, wherein positioning the number of wave sensors comprises positioning the number of wave sensors relative to the workpiece such that the number of wave sensors is oriented to sense waves at at least two different distances from a wave generator of the number of wave generators. 23. The method of claim 22, wherein determining if the surface roughness in a plurality of locations of the workpiece is within a roughness threshold comprises determining if surface roughness in a plurality of locations spread in a second direction of the workpiece is within a roughness threshold, and wherein the second direction extends through the at least two different distances. 24. The method of claim 18 further comprising:
sending a plurality of source signals having the signal parameters into the workpiece at a plurality of source locations of the workpiece using a plurality of pulsers and a plurality of wave generators, wherein sending the source signal into the workpiece is one of the plurality of source signals sent into the workpiece; and
wherein determining if the surface roughness of the workpiece is within a roughness threshold comprises determining if the surface roughness in a plurality of locations of the workpiece is within a roughness threshold for at least one of roughness width or roughness height based on output of the number of wave sensors. 25. The method of claim 24, wherein the plurality of locations is spread in a first direction of the workpiece, and wherein the plurality of source signals is spread across the workpiece in the first direction. 26. A surface roughness analysis system comprising:
an ultrasonic analysis system configured to receive material mechanical parameters for a workpiece, determine incident surface wave signal parameters for a source signal to be sent by a number of wave generators, and determine a designated distance for a number of wave sensors from the number of wave generators such that the number of wave sensors receiving a surface wave of a threshold value indicates a surface roughness within a roughness threshold; the number of wave generators configured to send a source signal having the signal parameters into a workpiece; the number of wave sensors positioned at least the designated distance from the number of wave generators; and a roughness evaluator configured to determine if the surface roughness of the workpiece is below a roughness threshold based on a surface wave sensed by number of wave sensors. 27. The surface roughness analysis system of claim 26, wherein the number of wave sensors comprises a series of wave sensors, each wave sensor of the series of wave sensors having a different distance from a wave generator of the number of wave generators in a second direction of a surface of the workpiece. 28. The surface roughness analysis system of claim 26, wherein the number of wave generators comprises a plurality of wave generators spaced across a surface of the workpiece in a first direction. 29. The surface roughness analysis system of claim 26, wherein the number of wave sensors is positioned at least a designated distance from the number of wave generators to detect surface waves from a workpiece, wherein the designated distance is selected based on a cut-off wavelength calculated by the ultrasonic analysis system. 30. The surface roughness analysis system of claim 29, wherein the cut-off wavelength is approximately 0.5. 31. A surface roughness analysis system comprising:
a number of wave generators configured to send a source signal having signal parameters into a workpiece, the signal parameters calculated to generate a surface wave in the workpiece; a number of wave sensors oriented to receive surface waves from the workpiece and positioned at least a designated distance from the number of wave generators, wherein the designated distance is such that receiving a surface wave of a threshold value at the number of wave sensors indicates a surface roughness within a roughness threshold; and a roughness evaluator configured to determine if the surface roughness of the workpiece is below a roughness threshold based on a presence or absence of a surface wave sensed by number of wave sensors. | 2,400 |
349,321 | 16,806,901 | 2,443 | The present invention relates to a smart helmet for use by railyard personnel at a railyard. The smart helmet may utilize many safety features, such as improved visibility, a real-time camera, a Wi-Fi antenna, an environmental monitor, high-accuracy location tracking, tracking the “state” of the railyard crew member, real-time communication, and mobile power. Each of these features may be incorporated with the smart helmet. | 1. A helmet for a railyard crew member for use in a railyard, the helmet comprising:
a helmet configured to be worn on a head of a railyard crew member; a helmet ring that surrounds and encircles a lower rim of the helmet; a helmet processor that includes a processing unit and a system memory to store and execute software instructions, wherein the helmet processor is in communication with and connected to a railyard site computer that provides a central analysis and a display site for the railyard; a real-time camera system located on the helmet ring, the real-time camera system connected to the helmet processor, the real-time camera system including a still picture capability and a video capability that captures and stores a plurality of images and videos on the helmet processor, wherein the real-time camera system provides a real-time video of current operations and activities from the helmet and sends the real-time video to the railyard site computer; a high-accuracy location system connected to the helmet processor, the high-accuracy location system including a real-time kinematics (RTK) module and a GPS antenna located on the helmet ring, wherein the high-accuracy location system utilizes a global navigation satellite system (GNSS) and the RTK module to enable centimeter location accuracy of the railyard crew member for the high-accuracy location system; and wherein the railyard site computer receives and displays data of the railyard crew member from the real-time camera system and the high-accuracy location system. 2. The helmet of claim 1, wherein the helmet ring includes an inner ring and an outer ring, the inner ring having a smaller circumference than the outer ring such that the inner ring is configured and sized to fit around the lower rim of the helmet. 3. The helmet of claim 2, wherein the inner ring and the outer ring are connected together by one or more attachment mechanisms. 4. The helmet of claim 2, wherein the inner ring and the outer ring form a ring channel that extends around the helmet ring, the ring channel holding a plurality of various electronics associated with the helmet and connected to the helmet processor. 5. The helmet of claim 1, further including an LED lighting system connected to the helmet processor, the LED lighting system including one or more LED lighting elements located along a periphery of the helmet ring, the one or more LED lighting elements including a plurality of LEDs. 6. The helmet of claim 1, wherein the high-accuracy location system determines a position of the railyard crew member with respect to a locomotive and one or more railcars in the railyard. 7. The helmet of claim 6, wherein the high-accuracy location system determines a height of the railyard crew member with respect to the ground, and further wherein if the determined height is below a certain height, the railyard crew member will be determined to be on the ground and potentially in a dangerous condition, and if the determined height is above the certain height, the railyard crew member will be determined to be riding on one of the railcars and in a safe condition. 8. The helmet of claim 1, wherein the real-time camera system includes an infrared camera. 9. The helmet of claim 1, wherein the real-time camera system is connected wirelessly to the railyard site computer such that the real-time camera system streams real-time video to the railyard site computer for display and storage. 10. A helmet for a railyard crew member for use in a railyard, the helmet comprising:
a helmet configured to be worn on a head of a railyard crew member; a helmet ring that surrounds and encircles a lower rim of the helmet, the helmet ring including an inner ring and an outer ring, the inner ring having a smaller circumference than the outer ring such that the inner ring is configured and sized to fit around the lower rim of the helmet; a helmet processor that includes a processing unit and a system memory to store and execute software instructions, wherein the helmet processor is in communication with and connected to a railyard site computer that provides a central analysis and a display site for the railyard, wherein the inner ring and the outer ring form a ring channel that extends around the helmet ring, the ring channel holding a plurality of various electronics associated with the helmet and connected to the helmet processor; a Wi-Fi antenna connected to the helmet processor to communicate to broadcast and stream data immediately to a supervisor in a local monitoring station or to a locomotive; an LED lighting system connected to the helmet processor, the LED lighting system including one or more LED lighting elements located along a periphery of the helmet ring, the one or more LED lighting elements including a plurality of LEDs; a real-time camera system connected to the helmet processor and located within the ring channel, the real-time camera system including a still picture capability and a video capability that captures and stores a plurality of images and videos on the helmet processor, wherein the real-time camera system provides a real-time video of current operations and activities from the helmet and sends the real-time video to the railyard site computer; and a high-accuracy location system connected to the helmet processor, the high-accuracy location system including a real-time kinematics (RTK) module and a GPS antenna located on the helmet ring, wherein the high-accuracy location system utilizes a global navigation satellite system (GNSS) and the RTK module to enable centimeter location accuracy of the railyard crew member for the high-accuracy location system, wherein the high-accuracy location system includes a locomotive RTK module and a locomotive GPS antenna for a locomotive at the railyard to provide centimeter location accuracy of the locomotive, wherein the railyard site computer receives and displays data of the railyard crew member and the locomotive from the real-time camera system and the high-accuracy location system. 11. The helmet of claim 10, wherein the inner ring and the outer ring are connected together by one or more attachment mechanisms. 12. The helmet of claim 10, wherein the high-accuracy location system determines a position of the railyard crew member with respect to one or more railcars in the railyard. 13. The helmet of claim 12, wherein the high-accuracy location system determines a height of the railyard crew member with respect to the ground, and further wherein if the determined height is below a certain height, the railyard crew member will be determined to be on the ground and potentially in a dangerous condition, and if the determined height is above the certain height, the railyard crew member will be determined to be riding on one of the railcars and in a safe condition. 14. The helmet of claim 10, wherein the real-time camera system includes an infrared camera. 15. The helmet of claim 10, wherein the real-time camera system is connected wireles sly to the railyard site computer such that the real-time camera system streams real-time video to the railyard site computer for display and storage. 16. A helmet for a railyard crew member for use in a railyard, the helmet comprising:
a helmet configured to be worn on a head of a railyard crew member; a helmet ring that surrounds and encircles a lower rim of the helmet, the helmet ring including an inner ring and an outer ring, the inner ring having a smaller circumference than the outer ring such that the inner ring is configured and sized to fit around the lower rim of the helmet, wherein the inner ring and the outer ring are connected together by one or more attachment mechanisms; a helmet processor that includes a processing unit and a system memory to store and execute software instructions, wherein the helmet processor is in communication with and connected to a railyard site computer that provides a central analysis and a display site for the railyard; an LED lighting system connected to the helmet processor, the LED lighting system including one or more LED lighting elements located along a periphery of the helmet ring, the one or more LED lighting elements including a plurality of LEDs; a real-time camera system connected to the helmet processor and located on the helmet ring, the real-time camera system including a still picture capability and a video capability that captures and stores a plurality of images and videos on the helmet processor, wherein the real-time camera system is connected wirelessly to the railyard site computer such that the real-time camera system provides a real-time video of current operations and activities from the helmet and sends the real-time video to the railyard site computer for display and storage; and a high-accuracy location system connected to the helmet processor, the high-accuracy location system including a real-time kinematics (RTK) module and a GPS antenna located on the helmet ring, wherein the high-accuracy location system utilizes a global navigation satellite system (GNSS) and the RTK module to enable centimeter location accuracy of the railyard crew member for the high-accuracy location system, wherein the railyard site computer receives and displays data of the railyard crew member from the real-time camera system and the high-accuracy location system. 17. The helmet of claim 16, wherein the inner ring and the outer ring form a ring channel that extends around the helmet ring, the ring channel holding a plurality of various electronics associated with the helmet and connected to the helmet processor. 18. The helmet of claim 16, wherein the plurality of LEDs blink for a dangerous condition in the railyard. 19. The helmet of claim 16, wherein the plurality of LEDs include various colors, such that red LEDs are used for a dangerous condition in the railyard and green LEDs are used for a clear condition in the railyard. 20. The helmet of claim 16, wherein the real-time camera system includes an infrared camera. | The present invention relates to a smart helmet for use by railyard personnel at a railyard. The smart helmet may utilize many safety features, such as improved visibility, a real-time camera, a Wi-Fi antenna, an environmental monitor, high-accuracy location tracking, tracking the “state” of the railyard crew member, real-time communication, and mobile power. Each of these features may be incorporated with the smart helmet.1. A helmet for a railyard crew member for use in a railyard, the helmet comprising:
a helmet configured to be worn on a head of a railyard crew member; a helmet ring that surrounds and encircles a lower rim of the helmet; a helmet processor that includes a processing unit and a system memory to store and execute software instructions, wherein the helmet processor is in communication with and connected to a railyard site computer that provides a central analysis and a display site for the railyard; a real-time camera system located on the helmet ring, the real-time camera system connected to the helmet processor, the real-time camera system including a still picture capability and a video capability that captures and stores a plurality of images and videos on the helmet processor, wherein the real-time camera system provides a real-time video of current operations and activities from the helmet and sends the real-time video to the railyard site computer; a high-accuracy location system connected to the helmet processor, the high-accuracy location system including a real-time kinematics (RTK) module and a GPS antenna located on the helmet ring, wherein the high-accuracy location system utilizes a global navigation satellite system (GNSS) and the RTK module to enable centimeter location accuracy of the railyard crew member for the high-accuracy location system; and wherein the railyard site computer receives and displays data of the railyard crew member from the real-time camera system and the high-accuracy location system. 2. The helmet of claim 1, wherein the helmet ring includes an inner ring and an outer ring, the inner ring having a smaller circumference than the outer ring such that the inner ring is configured and sized to fit around the lower rim of the helmet. 3. The helmet of claim 2, wherein the inner ring and the outer ring are connected together by one or more attachment mechanisms. 4. The helmet of claim 2, wherein the inner ring and the outer ring form a ring channel that extends around the helmet ring, the ring channel holding a plurality of various electronics associated with the helmet and connected to the helmet processor. 5. The helmet of claim 1, further including an LED lighting system connected to the helmet processor, the LED lighting system including one or more LED lighting elements located along a periphery of the helmet ring, the one or more LED lighting elements including a plurality of LEDs. 6. The helmet of claim 1, wherein the high-accuracy location system determines a position of the railyard crew member with respect to a locomotive and one or more railcars in the railyard. 7. The helmet of claim 6, wherein the high-accuracy location system determines a height of the railyard crew member with respect to the ground, and further wherein if the determined height is below a certain height, the railyard crew member will be determined to be on the ground and potentially in a dangerous condition, and if the determined height is above the certain height, the railyard crew member will be determined to be riding on one of the railcars and in a safe condition. 8. The helmet of claim 1, wherein the real-time camera system includes an infrared camera. 9. The helmet of claim 1, wherein the real-time camera system is connected wirelessly to the railyard site computer such that the real-time camera system streams real-time video to the railyard site computer for display and storage. 10. A helmet for a railyard crew member for use in a railyard, the helmet comprising:
a helmet configured to be worn on a head of a railyard crew member; a helmet ring that surrounds and encircles a lower rim of the helmet, the helmet ring including an inner ring and an outer ring, the inner ring having a smaller circumference than the outer ring such that the inner ring is configured and sized to fit around the lower rim of the helmet; a helmet processor that includes a processing unit and a system memory to store and execute software instructions, wherein the helmet processor is in communication with and connected to a railyard site computer that provides a central analysis and a display site for the railyard, wherein the inner ring and the outer ring form a ring channel that extends around the helmet ring, the ring channel holding a plurality of various electronics associated with the helmet and connected to the helmet processor; a Wi-Fi antenna connected to the helmet processor to communicate to broadcast and stream data immediately to a supervisor in a local monitoring station or to a locomotive; an LED lighting system connected to the helmet processor, the LED lighting system including one or more LED lighting elements located along a periphery of the helmet ring, the one or more LED lighting elements including a plurality of LEDs; a real-time camera system connected to the helmet processor and located within the ring channel, the real-time camera system including a still picture capability and a video capability that captures and stores a plurality of images and videos on the helmet processor, wherein the real-time camera system provides a real-time video of current operations and activities from the helmet and sends the real-time video to the railyard site computer; and a high-accuracy location system connected to the helmet processor, the high-accuracy location system including a real-time kinematics (RTK) module and a GPS antenna located on the helmet ring, wherein the high-accuracy location system utilizes a global navigation satellite system (GNSS) and the RTK module to enable centimeter location accuracy of the railyard crew member for the high-accuracy location system, wherein the high-accuracy location system includes a locomotive RTK module and a locomotive GPS antenna for a locomotive at the railyard to provide centimeter location accuracy of the locomotive, wherein the railyard site computer receives and displays data of the railyard crew member and the locomotive from the real-time camera system and the high-accuracy location system. 11. The helmet of claim 10, wherein the inner ring and the outer ring are connected together by one or more attachment mechanisms. 12. The helmet of claim 10, wherein the high-accuracy location system determines a position of the railyard crew member with respect to one or more railcars in the railyard. 13. The helmet of claim 12, wherein the high-accuracy location system determines a height of the railyard crew member with respect to the ground, and further wherein if the determined height is below a certain height, the railyard crew member will be determined to be on the ground and potentially in a dangerous condition, and if the determined height is above the certain height, the railyard crew member will be determined to be riding on one of the railcars and in a safe condition. 14. The helmet of claim 10, wherein the real-time camera system includes an infrared camera. 15. The helmet of claim 10, wherein the real-time camera system is connected wireles sly to the railyard site computer such that the real-time camera system streams real-time video to the railyard site computer for display and storage. 16. A helmet for a railyard crew member for use in a railyard, the helmet comprising:
a helmet configured to be worn on a head of a railyard crew member; a helmet ring that surrounds and encircles a lower rim of the helmet, the helmet ring including an inner ring and an outer ring, the inner ring having a smaller circumference than the outer ring such that the inner ring is configured and sized to fit around the lower rim of the helmet, wherein the inner ring and the outer ring are connected together by one or more attachment mechanisms; a helmet processor that includes a processing unit and a system memory to store and execute software instructions, wherein the helmet processor is in communication with and connected to a railyard site computer that provides a central analysis and a display site for the railyard; an LED lighting system connected to the helmet processor, the LED lighting system including one or more LED lighting elements located along a periphery of the helmet ring, the one or more LED lighting elements including a plurality of LEDs; a real-time camera system connected to the helmet processor and located on the helmet ring, the real-time camera system including a still picture capability and a video capability that captures and stores a plurality of images and videos on the helmet processor, wherein the real-time camera system is connected wirelessly to the railyard site computer such that the real-time camera system provides a real-time video of current operations and activities from the helmet and sends the real-time video to the railyard site computer for display and storage; and a high-accuracy location system connected to the helmet processor, the high-accuracy location system including a real-time kinematics (RTK) module and a GPS antenna located on the helmet ring, wherein the high-accuracy location system utilizes a global navigation satellite system (GNSS) and the RTK module to enable centimeter location accuracy of the railyard crew member for the high-accuracy location system, wherein the railyard site computer receives and displays data of the railyard crew member from the real-time camera system and the high-accuracy location system. 17. The helmet of claim 16, wherein the inner ring and the outer ring form a ring channel that extends around the helmet ring, the ring channel holding a plurality of various electronics associated with the helmet and connected to the helmet processor. 18. The helmet of claim 16, wherein the plurality of LEDs blink for a dangerous condition in the railyard. 19. The helmet of claim 16, wherein the plurality of LEDs include various colors, such that red LEDs are used for a dangerous condition in the railyard and green LEDs are used for a clear condition in the railyard. 20. The helmet of claim 16, wherein the real-time camera system includes an infrared camera. | 2,400 |
349,322 | 16,806,906 | 1,634 | Disclosed herein are methods and compositions for the diagnosis and treatment of AMD based on SNPs, haplotypes, and diplotypes on chromosome 1 and chromosome 10. | 1-10. (canceled) 11. A method for determining a treatment for a subject based on the subject's susceptibility to having or developing age-related macular degeneration comprising determining [that the subject comprises a chromosome 1 risk diplotype selected from H1_H1, H1_H2, and H2_H2;
determining that the subject comprises a protective GG genotype at locus rs10490924 of the HTRA1 gene on chromosome 10; determining from the diplotype identified in chromosome 1 and the genotype identified in chromosome 10 the subject's susceptibility to having or developing age-related macular degeneration; and, treating the subject with a complement-based treatment for AMD and not treating the patient with a vascular-based treatment for AMD. 12. The method of claim 11 wherein the chromosome 1 risk diplotype is H1_H1. 13. The method of claim 11 wherein, prior to the step of treating, the subject is categorized as having or not having occluded choriocapillaris lobules. 14. The method of claim 12 wherein, prior to the step of treating, the subject is categorized as having or not having occluded choriocapillaris lobules. 15. The method of claim 11 further comprising amplifying or sequencing a nucleic acid sample obtained from the subject to determine the subject comprises the chromosome 1 risk diplotype and/or to determine the subject comprises the protective GG genotype. 16. A method for determining whether a subject should be enrolled in a clinical trial for treatment of the subject's susceptibility to having or developing age-related macular degeneration comprising
determining that the subject comprises a chromosome 1 risk diplotype selected from H1_H1, H1_H2, and H2_H2; determining that the subject comprises a protective GG genotype at locus rs10490924 of the HTRA1 gene on chromosome 10; determining from the diplotype identified in chromosome 1 and the genotype identified in chromosome 10 the subject's susceptibility to having or developing age-related macular degeneration; and, admitting the subjects to a clinical trial for treatment of complement-mediated AMD based on the diplotype identified in chromosome 1 and the genotype identified in chromosome 10. 17. The method of claim 16 wherein the chromosome 1 risk diplotype is H1_H1. 18. The method of claim 16 wherein, prior to the step of treating, the subject is categorized as having or not having occluded choriocapillaris lobules. 19. The method of claim 16 further comprising amplifying or sequencing a nucleic acid sample obtained from the subject to determine the subject comprises the chromosome 1 risk diplotype and/or to determine the subject comprises the protective GG genotype. | Disclosed herein are methods and compositions for the diagnosis and treatment of AMD based on SNPs, haplotypes, and diplotypes on chromosome 1 and chromosome 10.1-10. (canceled) 11. A method for determining a treatment for a subject based on the subject's susceptibility to having or developing age-related macular degeneration comprising determining [that the subject comprises a chromosome 1 risk diplotype selected from H1_H1, H1_H2, and H2_H2;
determining that the subject comprises a protective GG genotype at locus rs10490924 of the HTRA1 gene on chromosome 10; determining from the diplotype identified in chromosome 1 and the genotype identified in chromosome 10 the subject's susceptibility to having or developing age-related macular degeneration; and, treating the subject with a complement-based treatment for AMD and not treating the patient with a vascular-based treatment for AMD. 12. The method of claim 11 wherein the chromosome 1 risk diplotype is H1_H1. 13. The method of claim 11 wherein, prior to the step of treating, the subject is categorized as having or not having occluded choriocapillaris lobules. 14. The method of claim 12 wherein, prior to the step of treating, the subject is categorized as having or not having occluded choriocapillaris lobules. 15. The method of claim 11 further comprising amplifying or sequencing a nucleic acid sample obtained from the subject to determine the subject comprises the chromosome 1 risk diplotype and/or to determine the subject comprises the protective GG genotype. 16. A method for determining whether a subject should be enrolled in a clinical trial for treatment of the subject's susceptibility to having or developing age-related macular degeneration comprising
determining that the subject comprises a chromosome 1 risk diplotype selected from H1_H1, H1_H2, and H2_H2; determining that the subject comprises a protective GG genotype at locus rs10490924 of the HTRA1 gene on chromosome 10; determining from the diplotype identified in chromosome 1 and the genotype identified in chromosome 10 the subject's susceptibility to having or developing age-related macular degeneration; and, admitting the subjects to a clinical trial for treatment of complement-mediated AMD based on the diplotype identified in chromosome 1 and the genotype identified in chromosome 10. 17. The method of claim 16 wherein the chromosome 1 risk diplotype is H1_H1. 18. The method of claim 16 wherein, prior to the step of treating, the subject is categorized as having or not having occluded choriocapillaris lobules. 19. The method of claim 16 further comprising amplifying or sequencing a nucleic acid sample obtained from the subject to determine the subject comprises the chromosome 1 risk diplotype and/or to determine the subject comprises the protective GG genotype. | 1,600 |
349,323 | 16,806,905 | 1,634 | A multilayer coil component includes a multilayer body formed by stacking a plurality of insulating layers on top of one another and that has a coil built thereinto, and a first outer electrode and a second outer electrode that are electrically connected to the coil. The coil is formed by electrically connecting a plurality of coil conductors to one another. A first main surface of the multilayer body is a mounting surface. A stacking direction of the multilayer body and an axial direction of the coil are parallel to the mounting surface. The insulating layers between the coil conductors are composed of a material containing at least one out of a magnetic material and a non-magnetic material. A content percentage of the non-magnetic material in the insulating layers changes in a direction from a first end surface toward a second end surface of the multilayer body. | 1. A multilayer coil component comprising:
a multilayer body that is formed by stacking a plurality of insulating layers on top of one another and that has a coil built into the inside thereof, the coil being formed by electrically connecting a plurality of coil conductors, which are stacked together with insulating layers, to one another, the insulating layers located between the coil conductors being composed of a material containing at least one of a magnetic material and a non-magnetic material, and the multilayer body has
a first end surface and a second end surface, which face each other in a length direction, and a content percentage of the non-magnetic material contained in the insulating layers changes in a direction from the first end surface toward the second end surface of the multilayer body,
a first main surface and a second main surface, which face each other in a height direction perpendicular to the length direction, the first main surface being a mounting surface, and a stacking direction of the multilayer body and an axial direction of the coil being parallel to the mounting surface, and
a first side surface and a second side surface, which face each other in a width direction perpendicular to the length direction and the height direction; and
a first outer electrode and a second outer electrode that are electrically connected to the coil, the first outer electrode being arranged so as to cover part of the first end surface and so as to extend from the first end surface and cover part of the first main surface, and the second outer electrode being arranged so as to cover part of the second end surface and so as to extend from the second end surface and cover part of the first main surface. 2. The multilayer coil component according to claim 1, wherein
the non-magnetic material includes an oxide material containing Si and Zn. 3. The multilayer coil component according to claim 2, wherein
content of Zn relative to Si (Zn/Si) lies in a range of around 1.8 to 2.2 in terms of a molar ratio. 4. The multilayer coil component according to claim 2, wherein
the non-magnetic material further includes Cu. 5. The multilayer coil component according to claim 1, wherein
the non-magnetic material includes a material obtained by adding a filler to a glass material containing Si, K, and B, and the filler contains at least one selected from a group consisting of quartz and alumina. 6. The multilayer coil component according to claim 5, wherein
the glass material contains Si in the form of SiO2 at around 70 to 85 wt %, B in the form of B2O3 at around 10 to 25 wt %, K in the form of K2O at around 0.5 to 5 wt %, and Al in the form of Al2O3 at around 0 to 5 wt %. 7. The multilayer coil component according to claim 1, wherein
the magnetic material is a Ni—Zn—Cu ferrite material. 8. The multilayer coil component according to claim 7, wherein
the ferrite material contains Fe in the form of Fe2O3 at around 40 to 49.5 mol %, Zn in the form of ZnO at around 2 to 35 mol %, Cu in the form of CuO at around 6 to 13 mol %, and Ni in the form of NiO at around 10 to 45 mol %. 9. The multilayer coil component according to claim 1, further comprising:
a first connection conductor and a second connection conductor inside the multilayer body; wherein the first connection conductor is connected in a straight line between a part of the first outer electrode that covers the first end surface and the coil conductor that faces the first outer electrode, and the second connection conductor is connected in a straight line between a part of the second outer electrode that covers the second end surface and the coil conductor that faces the second outer electrode. 10. The multilayer coil component according to claim 9, wherein
the first connection conductor and the second connection conductor overlap the coil conductors in a plan view from the stacking direction and are located closer to the mounting surface than a center axis of the coil. 11. The multilayer coil component according to claim 3, wherein
the non-magnetic material further includes Cu. 12. The multilayer coil component according to claim 2, wherein
the magnetic material is a Ni—Zn—Cu ferrite material. 13. The multilayer coil component according to claim 3, wherein
the magnetic material is a Ni—Zn—Cu ferrite material. 14. The multilayer coil component according to claim 4, wherein
the magnetic material is a Ni—Zn—Cu ferrite material. 15. The multilayer coil component according to claim 5, wherein
the magnetic material is a Ni—Zn—Cu ferrite material. 16. The multilayer coil component according to claim 6, wherein
the magnetic material is a Ni—Zn—Cu ferrite material. 17. The multilayer coil component according to claim 2, further comprising:
a first connection conductor and a second connection conductor inside the multilayer body; wherein the first connection conductor is connected in a straight line between a part of the first outer electrode that covers the first end surface and the coil conductor that faces the first outer electrode, and the second connection conductor is connected in a straight line between a part of the second outer electrode that covers the second end surface and the coil conductor that faces the second outer electrode. 18. The multilayer coil component according to claim 3, further comprising:
a first connection conductor and a second connection conductor inside the multilayer body; wherein the first connection conductor is connected in a straight line between a part of the first outer electrode that covers the first end surface and the coil conductor that faces the first outer electrode, and the second connection conductor is connected in a straight line between a part of the second outer electrode that covers the second end surface and the coil conductor that faces the second outer electrode. 19. The multilayer coil component according to claim 4, further comprising:
a first connection conductor and a second connection conductor inside the multilayer body; wherein the first connection conductor is connected in a straight line between a part of the first outer electrode that covers the first end surface and the coil conductor that faces the first outer electrode, and the second connection conductor is connected in a straight line between a part of the second outer electrode that covers the second end surface and the coil conductor that faces the second outer electrode. 20. The multilayer coil component according to claim 5, further comprising:
a first connection conductor and a second connection conductor inside the multilayer body; wherein the first connection conductor is connected in a straight line between a part of the first outer electrode that covers the first end surface and the coil conductor that faces the first outer electrode, and the second connection conductor is connected in a straight line between a part of the second outer electrode that covers the second end surface and the coil conductor that faces the second outer electrode. | A multilayer coil component includes a multilayer body formed by stacking a plurality of insulating layers on top of one another and that has a coil built thereinto, and a first outer electrode and a second outer electrode that are electrically connected to the coil. The coil is formed by electrically connecting a plurality of coil conductors to one another. A first main surface of the multilayer body is a mounting surface. A stacking direction of the multilayer body and an axial direction of the coil are parallel to the mounting surface. The insulating layers between the coil conductors are composed of a material containing at least one out of a magnetic material and a non-magnetic material. A content percentage of the non-magnetic material in the insulating layers changes in a direction from a first end surface toward a second end surface of the multilayer body.1. A multilayer coil component comprising:
a multilayer body that is formed by stacking a plurality of insulating layers on top of one another and that has a coil built into the inside thereof, the coil being formed by electrically connecting a plurality of coil conductors, which are stacked together with insulating layers, to one another, the insulating layers located between the coil conductors being composed of a material containing at least one of a magnetic material and a non-magnetic material, and the multilayer body has
a first end surface and a second end surface, which face each other in a length direction, and a content percentage of the non-magnetic material contained in the insulating layers changes in a direction from the first end surface toward the second end surface of the multilayer body,
a first main surface and a second main surface, which face each other in a height direction perpendicular to the length direction, the first main surface being a mounting surface, and a stacking direction of the multilayer body and an axial direction of the coil being parallel to the mounting surface, and
a first side surface and a second side surface, which face each other in a width direction perpendicular to the length direction and the height direction; and
a first outer electrode and a second outer electrode that are electrically connected to the coil, the first outer electrode being arranged so as to cover part of the first end surface and so as to extend from the first end surface and cover part of the first main surface, and the second outer electrode being arranged so as to cover part of the second end surface and so as to extend from the second end surface and cover part of the first main surface. 2. The multilayer coil component according to claim 1, wherein
the non-magnetic material includes an oxide material containing Si and Zn. 3. The multilayer coil component according to claim 2, wherein
content of Zn relative to Si (Zn/Si) lies in a range of around 1.8 to 2.2 in terms of a molar ratio. 4. The multilayer coil component according to claim 2, wherein
the non-magnetic material further includes Cu. 5. The multilayer coil component according to claim 1, wherein
the non-magnetic material includes a material obtained by adding a filler to a glass material containing Si, K, and B, and the filler contains at least one selected from a group consisting of quartz and alumina. 6. The multilayer coil component according to claim 5, wherein
the glass material contains Si in the form of SiO2 at around 70 to 85 wt %, B in the form of B2O3 at around 10 to 25 wt %, K in the form of K2O at around 0.5 to 5 wt %, and Al in the form of Al2O3 at around 0 to 5 wt %. 7. The multilayer coil component according to claim 1, wherein
the magnetic material is a Ni—Zn—Cu ferrite material. 8. The multilayer coil component according to claim 7, wherein
the ferrite material contains Fe in the form of Fe2O3 at around 40 to 49.5 mol %, Zn in the form of ZnO at around 2 to 35 mol %, Cu in the form of CuO at around 6 to 13 mol %, and Ni in the form of NiO at around 10 to 45 mol %. 9. The multilayer coil component according to claim 1, further comprising:
a first connection conductor and a second connection conductor inside the multilayer body; wherein the first connection conductor is connected in a straight line between a part of the first outer electrode that covers the first end surface and the coil conductor that faces the first outer electrode, and the second connection conductor is connected in a straight line between a part of the second outer electrode that covers the second end surface and the coil conductor that faces the second outer electrode. 10. The multilayer coil component according to claim 9, wherein
the first connection conductor and the second connection conductor overlap the coil conductors in a plan view from the stacking direction and are located closer to the mounting surface than a center axis of the coil. 11. The multilayer coil component according to claim 3, wherein
the non-magnetic material further includes Cu. 12. The multilayer coil component according to claim 2, wherein
the magnetic material is a Ni—Zn—Cu ferrite material. 13. The multilayer coil component according to claim 3, wherein
the magnetic material is a Ni—Zn—Cu ferrite material. 14. The multilayer coil component according to claim 4, wherein
the magnetic material is a Ni—Zn—Cu ferrite material. 15. The multilayer coil component according to claim 5, wherein
the magnetic material is a Ni—Zn—Cu ferrite material. 16. The multilayer coil component according to claim 6, wherein
the magnetic material is a Ni—Zn—Cu ferrite material. 17. The multilayer coil component according to claim 2, further comprising:
a first connection conductor and a second connection conductor inside the multilayer body; wherein the first connection conductor is connected in a straight line between a part of the first outer electrode that covers the first end surface and the coil conductor that faces the first outer electrode, and the second connection conductor is connected in a straight line between a part of the second outer electrode that covers the second end surface and the coil conductor that faces the second outer electrode. 18. The multilayer coil component according to claim 3, further comprising:
a first connection conductor and a second connection conductor inside the multilayer body; wherein the first connection conductor is connected in a straight line between a part of the first outer electrode that covers the first end surface and the coil conductor that faces the first outer electrode, and the second connection conductor is connected in a straight line between a part of the second outer electrode that covers the second end surface and the coil conductor that faces the second outer electrode. 19. The multilayer coil component according to claim 4, further comprising:
a first connection conductor and a second connection conductor inside the multilayer body; wherein the first connection conductor is connected in a straight line between a part of the first outer electrode that covers the first end surface and the coil conductor that faces the first outer electrode, and the second connection conductor is connected in a straight line between a part of the second outer electrode that covers the second end surface and the coil conductor that faces the second outer electrode. 20. The multilayer coil component according to claim 5, further comprising:
a first connection conductor and a second connection conductor inside the multilayer body; wherein the first connection conductor is connected in a straight line between a part of the first outer electrode that covers the first end surface and the coil conductor that faces the first outer electrode, and the second connection conductor is connected in a straight line between a part of the second outer electrode that covers the second end surface and the coil conductor that faces the second outer electrode. | 1,600 |
349,324 | 16,806,907 | 3,664 | In an example, a method captures, at a first connected vehicle situated in a travel path segment, first sensor data describing an environment proximate to the first connected vehicle. The environment includes a first unconnected vehicle. The method wirelessly receives, via a communication network at the first connected vehicle from a second connected vehicle situated in the travel path segment, second sensor data describing one or more operating characteristics of the first unconnected vehicle. The method estimates, using the first sensor data and the second sensor data, a vehicle action of the first unconnected vehicle. | 1. A method comprising:
capturing, at a first connected vehicle situated in a travel path segment, first sensor data describing an environment proximate to the first connected vehicle, the environment including a first unconnected vehicle; wirelessly receiving, via a communication network at the first connected vehicle from a second connected vehicle situated in the travel path segment, second sensor data describing one or more operating characteristics of the first unconnected vehicle; and estimating, using the first sensor data and the second sensor data, a vehicle action of the first unconnected vehicle. 2. The method of claim 1, wherein:
the first connected vehicle is located proximate to the first unconnected vehicle in the travel path segment; and the first unconnected vehicle is obscured from being captured by one or more sensors of the first connected vehicle and at least partially unobscured from being captured by one or more sensors of the second connected vehicle. 3. The method of claim 1, wherein the vehicle action of the first unconnected vehicle includes one or more of an excessive braking action, a non-indicated lane change action, a traffic impeding action, a speeding action, and a tailgating action. 4. The method of claim 1, further comprising:
generating, for a connected vehicle associated with the travel path segment, a vehicle instruction based on the vehicle action of the first unconnected vehicle; and transmitting the vehicle instruction to the connected vehicle. 5. The method of claim 1, further comprising:
assigning a temporary identifier for the first unconnected vehicle; and transmitting the temporary identifier of the first unconnected vehicle and an alert notification describing the vehicle action of the first unconnected vehicle to one or more connected vehicles associated with the travel path segment, wherein the temporary identifier indicates one or more of:
a vehicle attribute of the first unconnected vehicle and a vehicle attribute of a proximate vehicle located proximate to the first unconnected vehicle, and
a vehicle location of the first unconnected vehicle relative to the proximate vehicle;
monitoring the first unconnected vehicle; updating the temporary identifier of the first unconnected vehicle based on a vehicle attribute of a different proximate vehicle and a vehicle location of the first unconnected vehicle relative to the different proximate vehicle; and transmitting the updated temporary identifier of the first unconnected vehicle to the one or more connected vehicles associated with the travel path segment. 6. The method of claim 1, further comprising:
accumulating the one or more operating characteristics of the first unconnected vehicle at a plurality of timestamps; and wherein estimating the vehicle action of the first unconnected vehicle is based on the accumulated one or more operating characteristics of the first unconnected vehicle. 7. The method of claim 1, wherein a relative location of the second connected vehicle relative to the first connected vehicle and the first unconnected vehicle includes one of:
the second connected vehicle is situated behind the first connected vehicle in a neighboring lane of the first connected vehicle; the second connected vehicle is situated between the first connected vehicle and the first unconnected vehicle in one of a neighboring lane and a same lane of the first connected vehicle; and the second connected vehicle is situated in front of the first unconnected vehicle in one of the neighboring lane and the same lane of the first connected vehicle. 8. The method of claim 1, further comprising:
determining, using the first sensor data captured by the first connected vehicle, one or more operating characteristics of a second unconnected vehicle situated in the travel path segment, the second unconnected vehicle located proximate to the first connected vehicle; determining, using the first sensor data and the wirelessly received second sensor data, that the first unconnected vehicle is a preceding vehicle of the second unconnected vehicle; and determining a vehicle following pattern of the second unconnected vehicle based on the one or more operating characteristics of the second unconnected vehicle and the one or more operating characteristics of the first unconnected vehicle. 9. The method of claim 8, wherein determining the vehicle following pattern of the second unconnected vehicle includes:
determining, using the one or more operating characteristics of the second unconnected vehicle and the one or more operating characteristics of the first unconnected vehicle, a second vehicle action of the second unconnected vehicle that was caused by a first vehicle action of the first unconnected vehicle; updating a set of vehicle actions associated with the second unconnected vehicle to exclude the second vehicle action from the set of vehicle actions; and determining the vehicle following pattern of the second unconnected vehicle using the updated set of vehicle actions associated with the second unconnected vehicle. 10. The method of claim 1, further comprising:
determining, using the first sensor data captured by the first connected vehicle, one or more operating characteristics of a second unconnected vehicle situated in the travel path segment, the second unconnected vehicle located proximate to the first connected vehicle; determining, using the first sensor data and the wirelessly received second sensor data, that the first unconnected vehicle is a neighboring vehicle of the second unconnected vehicle; determining a lane change pattern of the second unconnected vehicle based on the one or more operating characteristics of the second unconnected vehicle and the one or more operating characteristics of the first unconnected vehicle, wherein determining the lane change pattern of the second unconnected vehicle includes:
determining, using the one or more operating characteristics of the second unconnected vehicle and the one or more operating characteristics of the first unconnected vehicle, a second vehicle action of the second unconnected vehicle that was caused by a first driving action of the first unconnected vehicle;
updating a set of vehicle actions associated with the second unconnected vehicle to exclude the second vehicle action from the set of vehicle actions; and
determining the lane change pattern of the second unconnected vehicle using the updated set of vehicle actions associated with the second unconnected vehicle. 11. A first connected vehicle comprising:
a wireless transceiver; one or more sensors; one or more processors coupled to the wireless transceiver and the one or more sensors via a communication bus, the one or more processors being configured to perform operations including:
capturing, using the one or more sensors, first sensor data describing an environment proximate to the first connected vehicle situated in a travel path segment, the environment including a first unconnected vehicle;
wirelessly receiving, via the wireless transceiver from a second connected vehicle situated in the travel path segment, second sensor data describing one or more operating characteristics of the first unconnected vehicle; and
estimating, using the first sensor data and the second sensor data, a vehicle action of the first unconnected vehicle. 12. The first connected vehicle of claim 11, wherein:
the first connected vehicle is located proximate to the first unconnected vehicle in the travel path segment; and the first unconnected vehicle is obscured from being captured by one or more sensors of the first connected vehicle and at least partially unobscured from being captured by one or more sensors of the second connected vehicle. 13. The first connected vehicle of claim 11, wherein the vehicle action of the first unconnected vehicle includes one or more of an excessive braking action, a non-indicated lane change action, a traffic impeding action, a speeding action, and a tailgating action. 14. The first connected vehicle of claim 11, wherein the operations further include:
generating, for a connected vehicle associated with the travel path segment, a vehicle instruction based on the vehicle action of the first unconnected vehicle; and transmitting the vehicle instruction to the connected vehicle. 15. The first connected vehicle of claim 11, wherein the operations further include:
accumulating the one or more operating characteristics of the first unconnected vehicle at a plurality of timestamps; and wherein estimating the vehicle action of the first unconnected vehicle is based on the accumulated one or more operating characteristics of the first unconnected vehicle. 16. The first connected vehicle of claim 11, wherein a relative location of the second connected vehicle relative to the first connected vehicle and the first unconnected vehicle includes one of:
the second connected vehicle is situated behind the first connected vehicle in a neighboring lane of the first connected vehicle; the second connected vehicle is situated between the first connected vehicle and the first unconnected vehicle in one of a neighboring lane and a same lane of the first connected vehicle; and the second connected vehicle is situated in front of the first unconnected vehicle in one of the neighboring lane and the same lane of the first connected vehicle. 17. The first connected vehicle of claim 11, wherein the operations further include:
determining, using the first sensor data captured by the first connected vehicle, one or more operating characteristics of a second unconnected vehicle situated in the travel path segment, the second unconnected vehicle located proximate to the first connected vehicle; determining, using the first sensor data and the wirelessly received second sensor data, that the first unconnected vehicle is a preceding vehicle of the second unconnected vehicle; and determining a vehicle following pattern of the second unconnected vehicle based on the one or more operating characteristics of the second unconnected vehicle and the one or more operating characteristics of the first unconnected vehicle. 18. The first connected vehicle of claim 17, wherein determining the vehicle following pattern of the second unconnected vehicle includes:
determining, using the one or more operating characteristics of the second unconnected vehicle and the one or more operating characteristics of the first unconnected vehicle, a second vehicle action of the second unconnected vehicle that was caused by a first vehicle action of the first unconnected vehicle; updating a set of vehicle actions associated with the second unconnected vehicle to exclude the second vehicle action from the set of vehicle actions; and determining the vehicle following pattern of the second unconnected vehicle using the updated set of vehicle actions associated with the second unconnected vehicle. 19. The first connected vehicle of claim 11, wherein the operations further include:
determining, using the first sensor data captured by the first connected vehicle, one or more operating characteristics of a second unconnected vehicle situated in the travel path segment, the second unconnected vehicle located proximate to the first connected vehicle; determining, using the first sensor data and the wirelessly received second sensor data, that the first unconnected vehicle is a neighboring vehicle of the second unconnected vehicle; determining a lane change pattern of the second unconnected vehicle based on the one or more operating characteristics of the second unconnected vehicle and the one or more operating characteristics of the first unconnected vehicle, wherein determining the lane change pattern of the second unconnected vehicle includes:
determining, using the one or more operating characteristics of the second unconnected vehicle and the one or more operating characteristics of the first unconnected vehicle, a second vehicle action of the second unconnected vehicle that was caused by a first driving action of the first unconnected vehicle;
updating a set of vehicle actions associated with the second unconnected vehicle to exclude the second vehicle action from the set of vehicle actions; and
determining the lane change pattern of the second unconnected vehicle using the updated set of vehicle actions associated with the second unconnected vehicle. 20. A system comprising:
one or more processors; and a memory storing instructions that, when executed, cause the system to perform operations including:
receiving, from a first connected vehicle situated in a travel path segment, first sensor data describing an environment proximate to the first connected vehicle, the environment including a first unconnected vehicle;
receiving, from a second connected vehicle situated in the travel path segment, second sensor data describing one or more operating characteristics of the first unconnected vehicle;
estimating, using the first sensor data and the second sensor data, a vehicle action of the first unconnected vehicle; and
transmitting, to the first connected vehicle, the vehicle action of the first unconnected vehicle. | In an example, a method captures, at a first connected vehicle situated in a travel path segment, first sensor data describing an environment proximate to the first connected vehicle. The environment includes a first unconnected vehicle. The method wirelessly receives, via a communication network at the first connected vehicle from a second connected vehicle situated in the travel path segment, second sensor data describing one or more operating characteristics of the first unconnected vehicle. The method estimates, using the first sensor data and the second sensor data, a vehicle action of the first unconnected vehicle.1. A method comprising:
capturing, at a first connected vehicle situated in a travel path segment, first sensor data describing an environment proximate to the first connected vehicle, the environment including a first unconnected vehicle; wirelessly receiving, via a communication network at the first connected vehicle from a second connected vehicle situated in the travel path segment, second sensor data describing one or more operating characteristics of the first unconnected vehicle; and estimating, using the first sensor data and the second sensor data, a vehicle action of the first unconnected vehicle. 2. The method of claim 1, wherein:
the first connected vehicle is located proximate to the first unconnected vehicle in the travel path segment; and the first unconnected vehicle is obscured from being captured by one or more sensors of the first connected vehicle and at least partially unobscured from being captured by one or more sensors of the second connected vehicle. 3. The method of claim 1, wherein the vehicle action of the first unconnected vehicle includes one or more of an excessive braking action, a non-indicated lane change action, a traffic impeding action, a speeding action, and a tailgating action. 4. The method of claim 1, further comprising:
generating, for a connected vehicle associated with the travel path segment, a vehicle instruction based on the vehicle action of the first unconnected vehicle; and transmitting the vehicle instruction to the connected vehicle. 5. The method of claim 1, further comprising:
assigning a temporary identifier for the first unconnected vehicle; and transmitting the temporary identifier of the first unconnected vehicle and an alert notification describing the vehicle action of the first unconnected vehicle to one or more connected vehicles associated with the travel path segment, wherein the temporary identifier indicates one or more of:
a vehicle attribute of the first unconnected vehicle and a vehicle attribute of a proximate vehicle located proximate to the first unconnected vehicle, and
a vehicle location of the first unconnected vehicle relative to the proximate vehicle;
monitoring the first unconnected vehicle; updating the temporary identifier of the first unconnected vehicle based on a vehicle attribute of a different proximate vehicle and a vehicle location of the first unconnected vehicle relative to the different proximate vehicle; and transmitting the updated temporary identifier of the first unconnected vehicle to the one or more connected vehicles associated with the travel path segment. 6. The method of claim 1, further comprising:
accumulating the one or more operating characteristics of the first unconnected vehicle at a plurality of timestamps; and wherein estimating the vehicle action of the first unconnected vehicle is based on the accumulated one or more operating characteristics of the first unconnected vehicle. 7. The method of claim 1, wherein a relative location of the second connected vehicle relative to the first connected vehicle and the first unconnected vehicle includes one of:
the second connected vehicle is situated behind the first connected vehicle in a neighboring lane of the first connected vehicle; the second connected vehicle is situated between the first connected vehicle and the first unconnected vehicle in one of a neighboring lane and a same lane of the first connected vehicle; and the second connected vehicle is situated in front of the first unconnected vehicle in one of the neighboring lane and the same lane of the first connected vehicle. 8. The method of claim 1, further comprising:
determining, using the first sensor data captured by the first connected vehicle, one or more operating characteristics of a second unconnected vehicle situated in the travel path segment, the second unconnected vehicle located proximate to the first connected vehicle; determining, using the first sensor data and the wirelessly received second sensor data, that the first unconnected vehicle is a preceding vehicle of the second unconnected vehicle; and determining a vehicle following pattern of the second unconnected vehicle based on the one or more operating characteristics of the second unconnected vehicle and the one or more operating characteristics of the first unconnected vehicle. 9. The method of claim 8, wherein determining the vehicle following pattern of the second unconnected vehicle includes:
determining, using the one or more operating characteristics of the second unconnected vehicle and the one or more operating characteristics of the first unconnected vehicle, a second vehicle action of the second unconnected vehicle that was caused by a first vehicle action of the first unconnected vehicle; updating a set of vehicle actions associated with the second unconnected vehicle to exclude the second vehicle action from the set of vehicle actions; and determining the vehicle following pattern of the second unconnected vehicle using the updated set of vehicle actions associated with the second unconnected vehicle. 10. The method of claim 1, further comprising:
determining, using the first sensor data captured by the first connected vehicle, one or more operating characteristics of a second unconnected vehicle situated in the travel path segment, the second unconnected vehicle located proximate to the first connected vehicle; determining, using the first sensor data and the wirelessly received second sensor data, that the first unconnected vehicle is a neighboring vehicle of the second unconnected vehicle; determining a lane change pattern of the second unconnected vehicle based on the one or more operating characteristics of the second unconnected vehicle and the one or more operating characteristics of the first unconnected vehicle, wherein determining the lane change pattern of the second unconnected vehicle includes:
determining, using the one or more operating characteristics of the second unconnected vehicle and the one or more operating characteristics of the first unconnected vehicle, a second vehicle action of the second unconnected vehicle that was caused by a first driving action of the first unconnected vehicle;
updating a set of vehicle actions associated with the second unconnected vehicle to exclude the second vehicle action from the set of vehicle actions; and
determining the lane change pattern of the second unconnected vehicle using the updated set of vehicle actions associated with the second unconnected vehicle. 11. A first connected vehicle comprising:
a wireless transceiver; one or more sensors; one or more processors coupled to the wireless transceiver and the one or more sensors via a communication bus, the one or more processors being configured to perform operations including:
capturing, using the one or more sensors, first sensor data describing an environment proximate to the first connected vehicle situated in a travel path segment, the environment including a first unconnected vehicle;
wirelessly receiving, via the wireless transceiver from a second connected vehicle situated in the travel path segment, second sensor data describing one or more operating characteristics of the first unconnected vehicle; and
estimating, using the first sensor data and the second sensor data, a vehicle action of the first unconnected vehicle. 12. The first connected vehicle of claim 11, wherein:
the first connected vehicle is located proximate to the first unconnected vehicle in the travel path segment; and the first unconnected vehicle is obscured from being captured by one or more sensors of the first connected vehicle and at least partially unobscured from being captured by one or more sensors of the second connected vehicle. 13. The first connected vehicle of claim 11, wherein the vehicle action of the first unconnected vehicle includes one or more of an excessive braking action, a non-indicated lane change action, a traffic impeding action, a speeding action, and a tailgating action. 14. The first connected vehicle of claim 11, wherein the operations further include:
generating, for a connected vehicle associated with the travel path segment, a vehicle instruction based on the vehicle action of the first unconnected vehicle; and transmitting the vehicle instruction to the connected vehicle. 15. The first connected vehicle of claim 11, wherein the operations further include:
accumulating the one or more operating characteristics of the first unconnected vehicle at a plurality of timestamps; and wherein estimating the vehicle action of the first unconnected vehicle is based on the accumulated one or more operating characteristics of the first unconnected vehicle. 16. The first connected vehicle of claim 11, wherein a relative location of the second connected vehicle relative to the first connected vehicle and the first unconnected vehicle includes one of:
the second connected vehicle is situated behind the first connected vehicle in a neighboring lane of the first connected vehicle; the second connected vehicle is situated between the first connected vehicle and the first unconnected vehicle in one of a neighboring lane and a same lane of the first connected vehicle; and the second connected vehicle is situated in front of the first unconnected vehicle in one of the neighboring lane and the same lane of the first connected vehicle. 17. The first connected vehicle of claim 11, wherein the operations further include:
determining, using the first sensor data captured by the first connected vehicle, one or more operating characteristics of a second unconnected vehicle situated in the travel path segment, the second unconnected vehicle located proximate to the first connected vehicle; determining, using the first sensor data and the wirelessly received second sensor data, that the first unconnected vehicle is a preceding vehicle of the second unconnected vehicle; and determining a vehicle following pattern of the second unconnected vehicle based on the one or more operating characteristics of the second unconnected vehicle and the one or more operating characteristics of the first unconnected vehicle. 18. The first connected vehicle of claim 17, wherein determining the vehicle following pattern of the second unconnected vehicle includes:
determining, using the one or more operating characteristics of the second unconnected vehicle and the one or more operating characteristics of the first unconnected vehicle, a second vehicle action of the second unconnected vehicle that was caused by a first vehicle action of the first unconnected vehicle; updating a set of vehicle actions associated with the second unconnected vehicle to exclude the second vehicle action from the set of vehicle actions; and determining the vehicle following pattern of the second unconnected vehicle using the updated set of vehicle actions associated with the second unconnected vehicle. 19. The first connected vehicle of claim 11, wherein the operations further include:
determining, using the first sensor data captured by the first connected vehicle, one or more operating characteristics of a second unconnected vehicle situated in the travel path segment, the second unconnected vehicle located proximate to the first connected vehicle; determining, using the first sensor data and the wirelessly received second sensor data, that the first unconnected vehicle is a neighboring vehicle of the second unconnected vehicle; determining a lane change pattern of the second unconnected vehicle based on the one or more operating characteristics of the second unconnected vehicle and the one or more operating characteristics of the first unconnected vehicle, wherein determining the lane change pattern of the second unconnected vehicle includes:
determining, using the one or more operating characteristics of the second unconnected vehicle and the one or more operating characteristics of the first unconnected vehicle, a second vehicle action of the second unconnected vehicle that was caused by a first driving action of the first unconnected vehicle;
updating a set of vehicle actions associated with the second unconnected vehicle to exclude the second vehicle action from the set of vehicle actions; and
determining the lane change pattern of the second unconnected vehicle using the updated set of vehicle actions associated with the second unconnected vehicle. 20. A system comprising:
one or more processors; and a memory storing instructions that, when executed, cause the system to perform operations including:
receiving, from a first connected vehicle situated in a travel path segment, first sensor data describing an environment proximate to the first connected vehicle, the environment including a first unconnected vehicle;
receiving, from a second connected vehicle situated in the travel path segment, second sensor data describing one or more operating characteristics of the first unconnected vehicle;
estimating, using the first sensor data and the second sensor data, a vehicle action of the first unconnected vehicle; and
transmitting, to the first connected vehicle, the vehicle action of the first unconnected vehicle. | 3,600 |
349,325 | 16,806,920 | 3,664 | A secure cartridge-based storage system includes a set of read/write control electronics on a control board adapted to removably couple with each of a plurality of storage cartridges. The read/write control electronics are adapted to transmit a public key to a target storage cartridge in response to a read/write command received from a host device. The target storage cartridge includes and encryption circuit that authenticates the transmitted public key against a stored public key, accesses a locally-stored encryption key responsive to successful authentication of the public key; and utilizes the locally-stored encryption key to encrypt or decrypt data of the read/write command that is in transit between the storage media and the control board. | 1. A storage system comprising:
control electronics on a control board adapted to removably couple with and provide data access to each one of a plurality of storage cartridges in a storage library, the control electronics adapted to transmit a public key to a target storage cartridge in response to a read/write command received from a host device; an encryption circuit within the target storage cartridge adapted to:
authenticate the transmitted public key against a stored public key;
access an encryption key stored within the target storage cartridge responsive to successful authentication of the public key; and
utilize the encryption key to encrypt or decrypt data of the read/write command that is in transit between the storage cartridge and the control board. 2. The storage system of claim 1, wherein the control electronics on the control board are further adapted to:
determine a unique device identifier for the target storage cartridge responsive to receipt of the read/write command; and use the unique device identifier to acquire the public key. 3. The storage system of claim 2, wherein the control electronics acquire the public key by:
prompting the host device for the public key. 4. The storage system of claim 2, wherein the public key is stored on the control board in association with the unique device identifier. 5. The system of claim 1, wherein the target storage cartridge does not include a set of read/write control electronics. 6. The system of claim 5, wherein the target storage cartridge includes a primary non-volatile memory of a first type and the encryption circuit includes non-volatile memory of a second type that stores the encryption key and the public key. 7. The system of claim 1, wherein the encryption circuit is included within an interposer board of the storage cartridge, the interposer board providing a coupling interface for selective attachment to the control electronics on the control board. 8. The system of claim 1, wherein the encryption circuit is included within a preamplifier chip of the storage cartridge; 9. The system of claim 1, wherein the encryption circuit is stored in an encryption/decryption chip inside of the storage cartridge. 10. The system of claim 1, wherein the storage cartridges includes a secondary locking mechanism controllable by a user to selectively toggle the encryption circuit between a locked state and an unlocked state, the encryption circuit being prevented from receiving the public key when in the locked state. 11. A method comprising:
selectively coupling a target storage cartridge of a plurality of storage cartridges in a library to a set of control electronics on a control board, the control electronics being adapted to removably couple with and provide data access to each one of the plurality of storage cartridges; transmitting a public key from the control board to the target storage cartridge in response to a read/write command received from a host device; authenticating, at an encryption circuit in the target storage cartridge, the transmitted public key against a stored public key; accessing an encryption key stored in the encryption circuit responsive to successful authentication of the public key; and utilizing the encryption key to encrypt or decrypt data of the read/write command that is in transit between the target storage cartridge and the control board. 12. The method of claim 11, further comprising:
determining a unique device identifier for the target storage cartridge responsive to receipt of the read/write command; identifying the unique device identifier based on the public key; and prompting the host device for the public key. 13. The method of claim 12, wherein the control board stores the public key in association with the unique device identifier. 14. The method of claim 11, wherein the target storage cartridge includes a primary non-volatile memory of a first type and the encryption circuit is coupled to non-volatile memory of a second type that stores the encryption key and the public key. 15. The method of claim 11, wherein the encryption circuit is included within an interposer board of the storage cartridge, the interposer board providing a coupling interface for selective attachment to the read/write control electronics on the control board. 16. The method of claim 11, wherein the encryption circuit is included within a preamplifier chip of the storage cartridge; 17. The method of claim 11, wherein the storage cartridges includes a secondary locking mechanism and the method further comprises:
receiving, at the secondary locking mechanism, a pin; authenticating the pin; and toggling the encryption circuit from a locked state into an unlocked state responsive to successful verification of the pin, the encryption circuit being prevented from receiving the public key when in the locked state. 18. One or more tangible computer-readable storage media encoding computer-executable instructions for executing a computer process comprising:
selectively coupling a target storage cartridge of a plurality of storage cartridges in a library to a set of control electronics on a control board, the control electronics being adapted to removably couple with and provide data access to each one of the plurality of storage cartridges; transmitting a public key to the target storage cartridge in response to receipt of a read/write command from a host device; authenticating, at an encryption circuit in the target storage cartridge, the transmitted public key against a stored public key; accessing an encryption key stored in the encryption circuit responsive to successful authentication of the public key; and utilizing the encryption key to encrypt or decrypt data of the read/write command that is in transit between the target storage cartridge and the control board. 19. The one or more tangible computer-readable storage media of claim 18, wherein retrieving the encryption key further comprises:
determining a unique device identifier for the target storage cartridge responsive to receipt of the read/write command; and identifying the unique device identifier based on the public key. 20. The one or more tangible computer-readable storage media of claim 18, wherein the storage cartridge includes a secondary locking mechanism and the computer process further comprises:
receiving, at the secondary locking mechanism, a pin; authenticating the pin; and toggling the encryption circuit from a locked state into an unlocked state responsive to successful verification of the pin, the encryption circuit being prevented from receiving the public key when in the locked state. | A secure cartridge-based storage system includes a set of read/write control electronics on a control board adapted to removably couple with each of a plurality of storage cartridges. The read/write control electronics are adapted to transmit a public key to a target storage cartridge in response to a read/write command received from a host device. The target storage cartridge includes and encryption circuit that authenticates the transmitted public key against a stored public key, accesses a locally-stored encryption key responsive to successful authentication of the public key; and utilizes the locally-stored encryption key to encrypt or decrypt data of the read/write command that is in transit between the storage media and the control board.1. A storage system comprising:
control electronics on a control board adapted to removably couple with and provide data access to each one of a plurality of storage cartridges in a storage library, the control electronics adapted to transmit a public key to a target storage cartridge in response to a read/write command received from a host device; an encryption circuit within the target storage cartridge adapted to:
authenticate the transmitted public key against a stored public key;
access an encryption key stored within the target storage cartridge responsive to successful authentication of the public key; and
utilize the encryption key to encrypt or decrypt data of the read/write command that is in transit between the storage cartridge and the control board. 2. The storage system of claim 1, wherein the control electronics on the control board are further adapted to:
determine a unique device identifier for the target storage cartridge responsive to receipt of the read/write command; and use the unique device identifier to acquire the public key. 3. The storage system of claim 2, wherein the control electronics acquire the public key by:
prompting the host device for the public key. 4. The storage system of claim 2, wherein the public key is stored on the control board in association with the unique device identifier. 5. The system of claim 1, wherein the target storage cartridge does not include a set of read/write control electronics. 6. The system of claim 5, wherein the target storage cartridge includes a primary non-volatile memory of a first type and the encryption circuit includes non-volatile memory of a second type that stores the encryption key and the public key. 7. The system of claim 1, wherein the encryption circuit is included within an interposer board of the storage cartridge, the interposer board providing a coupling interface for selective attachment to the control electronics on the control board. 8. The system of claim 1, wherein the encryption circuit is included within a preamplifier chip of the storage cartridge; 9. The system of claim 1, wherein the encryption circuit is stored in an encryption/decryption chip inside of the storage cartridge. 10. The system of claim 1, wherein the storage cartridges includes a secondary locking mechanism controllable by a user to selectively toggle the encryption circuit between a locked state and an unlocked state, the encryption circuit being prevented from receiving the public key when in the locked state. 11. A method comprising:
selectively coupling a target storage cartridge of a plurality of storage cartridges in a library to a set of control electronics on a control board, the control electronics being adapted to removably couple with and provide data access to each one of the plurality of storage cartridges; transmitting a public key from the control board to the target storage cartridge in response to a read/write command received from a host device; authenticating, at an encryption circuit in the target storage cartridge, the transmitted public key against a stored public key; accessing an encryption key stored in the encryption circuit responsive to successful authentication of the public key; and utilizing the encryption key to encrypt or decrypt data of the read/write command that is in transit between the target storage cartridge and the control board. 12. The method of claim 11, further comprising:
determining a unique device identifier for the target storage cartridge responsive to receipt of the read/write command; identifying the unique device identifier based on the public key; and prompting the host device for the public key. 13. The method of claim 12, wherein the control board stores the public key in association with the unique device identifier. 14. The method of claim 11, wherein the target storage cartridge includes a primary non-volatile memory of a first type and the encryption circuit is coupled to non-volatile memory of a second type that stores the encryption key and the public key. 15. The method of claim 11, wherein the encryption circuit is included within an interposer board of the storage cartridge, the interposer board providing a coupling interface for selective attachment to the read/write control electronics on the control board. 16. The method of claim 11, wherein the encryption circuit is included within a preamplifier chip of the storage cartridge; 17. The method of claim 11, wherein the storage cartridges includes a secondary locking mechanism and the method further comprises:
receiving, at the secondary locking mechanism, a pin; authenticating the pin; and toggling the encryption circuit from a locked state into an unlocked state responsive to successful verification of the pin, the encryption circuit being prevented from receiving the public key when in the locked state. 18. One or more tangible computer-readable storage media encoding computer-executable instructions for executing a computer process comprising:
selectively coupling a target storage cartridge of a plurality of storage cartridges in a library to a set of control electronics on a control board, the control electronics being adapted to removably couple with and provide data access to each one of the plurality of storage cartridges; transmitting a public key to the target storage cartridge in response to receipt of a read/write command from a host device; authenticating, at an encryption circuit in the target storage cartridge, the transmitted public key against a stored public key; accessing an encryption key stored in the encryption circuit responsive to successful authentication of the public key; and utilizing the encryption key to encrypt or decrypt data of the read/write command that is in transit between the target storage cartridge and the control board. 19. The one or more tangible computer-readable storage media of claim 18, wherein retrieving the encryption key further comprises:
determining a unique device identifier for the target storage cartridge responsive to receipt of the read/write command; and identifying the unique device identifier based on the public key. 20. The one or more tangible computer-readable storage media of claim 18, wherein the storage cartridge includes a secondary locking mechanism and the computer process further comprises:
receiving, at the secondary locking mechanism, a pin; authenticating the pin; and toggling the encryption circuit from a locked state into an unlocked state responsive to successful verification of the pin, the encryption circuit being prevented from receiving the public key when in the locked state. | 3,600 |
349,326 | 16,806,938 | 2,446 | A system and method for user-controlled and user-activated automatic delivery of physical objects and electronic messages and contents using activity and health data from a smart device is provided. The system and method includes a computer program or smart phone application to define trigger parameters for a delivery. The computer program or smart phone application obtains and analyzes data from smart devices via an application program interface. If these data match with the pre-defined trigger parameters, delivery will occur. | 1. A system and method for user-controlled and user-activated automatic delivery of physical objects and electronic messages and contents via activity and health data from smart devices, hereinafter referred as “the method”, the method including:
a. providing a user application interface for user to:
document and store physical objects in a physical holding facility; or save electronic messages and electronic contents (e.g., voice recordings, pictures, videos, word documents, PFD files, multimedia) in the server of the method; the electronic contents can be imported directly from social media server or from user device, or can be captured with user device camera immediately prior to being imported, etc.;
tag physical objects and electronic contents with new names and display these names and provide a search function to search for these names;
select an activity and select one or more individuals who generate activity and health data during this activity; activity data include but are not limited to speed, distance, pace, etc.; health data include but are not limited to heart rate, temperature, weight, etc.;
select one or more triggers or patterns of triggers, the selected triggers comprising of activity and health data automatically recorded by a smart device, transferred to the device server and then transferred to the storage server and logic server of the method;
select an optional delay and a duration of the delay of the one or more triggers or pattern of triggers relative to the activity start time;
select a duration and frequency of the one or more triggers or patterns of triggers;
select a one or more physical objects and/or customize one or more electronic messages and attach one or more electronic contents from one or more sources (e.g., user device, the method server, social media server);
select a method of delivery for physical objects (e.g., by truck, by airplane) or select a method of delivery for electronic messages and contents (e.g., text, phone call, email, posting on social media);
select one or more recipients to which the physical objects, electronic messages and contents are to be delivered; the recipients comprising of, but not limited to, a physical address, a person, a smart phone capable of receiving a phone call or a message, a traditional network communication system (e.g., email), an online platform (e.g., publicly accessible website, blog), an instant messaging application (e.g., Messenger, Whatsapp) or a social media platform (e.g., Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, YouTube) which forwards the electronic contents to and posts on the individual account associated with the user on the platform, etc.;
b. storing the predefined triggers, patterns of triggers and electronic messages and contents in the storage server of the method;
c. receiving data from a smart device application interface by the logic server of the method, the logic server matching the incoming data with the stored and pre-defined triggers and patterns of triggers and analyzing for an occurrence of a predefined triggers and pattern of triggers;
d. automatically initiating the process of delivering physical objects and electronic messages and contents to recipients; 2. The method of claim 1, wherein smart devices are devices that can measure, collect and transmit activity and health data while remaining in close proximity with a user. These device can be unportable or portable. Unportable devices are devices that are too heavy or bulky to move or are designed to be stationary. Examples of unportable smart devices include, but are not limited to, a Peloton or an Echelon stationary bicycle. Portable devices are devices that can be easily carried by users or move with users. These devices remain attached to or stay on or in the user's body during an activity or permanently. Examples of a smart portable smart device include, but are not limited to, hand-held devices, implantable devices, wearable devices, fitness trackers, smart watches, smart jewelry, smart clothing, smart shoes or head mounted displays such as smart glasses (e.g., Apple watches, Clim8 smart shirts, FeetMe smart shoes, Google glasses, Garmin power meter pedals on a bicycle, etc). Another example is the H2Opal smart bottle that measures when and how much fluid a person drinks. These bottles can be carried by the user on the shoulder or inside a backpack or a cooler. Another example is the Withings smart scale that monitors weight. Another example is the Fever Scout Wearable Thermometer. Another example is a pace-maker; 3. The method of claim 1, wherein a smart device automatically records and sends data to the device server; these data are then automatically transmitted to the server of the method of claim 1 via an application programmable interface; 4. The method of claim 1, wherein the method grants users direct access to a third party app to directly view electronic contents and import electronic contents to the method server or to attach electronic contents to a trigger to be delivered via a trigger mechanism; 5. The method of claim 1, wherein users can tag an electronic content with new names and display these names while viewing this content or while setting the trigger and attaching this content; 6. The method of claim 1, wherein an activity can include, but is not limited to, a practice, a competition, a performance, a participation of an audience, a daily activity, etc. by one or more individuals; 7. The method of claim 1, wherein an individual includes, but is not limited to, a person, an animal, a robot or a machine, etc. capable of generating data; 8. The method of claim 1, using a smart watch as an example for claims 8 to 18, wherein activity and health triggers are non-specific and specific triggers. An example of a non-specific trigger is any non-specified distance run by a runner that is higher than a defined distance goal (e.g., if the runner defines a distance of 10 miles and a trigger of any distance longer than 10 miles, the trigger will be activated after the runner runs any distance longer than 10 miles such as 10.1 miles, 10.5 miles, 11 miles, etc.). An example of a specific trigger is a specified distance run by a runner that is higher than a defined distance goal (e.g., if the runner defines a goal of 10 miles and a specific trigger of exactly 11 miles, the trigger will not be activated after the runner runs 10 miles but will only be activated when the runner reaches the 11 mile mark); 9. The method of claim 1, wherein activity and health patterns of triggers are non-specific and specific triggers. An example of a non-specific pattern of trigger is a non-specified set of three consecutive heart rate notifications of a runner that are higher than the defined heart rate zone (hereinafter, in beats per minute) (e.g., if the runner defines a heart rate zone of 170 to 180, the pattern of trigger will be activated by any 3 consecutive heart rate notifications higher than 180 such as 185/195/190, 200/195/181, 181/182/183, etc.). An example of a specific pattern of trigger is a specified set of three consecutive heart rate notifications of a runner that are higher than the defined heart rate zone (e.g., if the runner defines a heart rate zone of 170 to 180 and specific pattern of trigger at 190/192/194, the pattern of trigger will only be activated by 3 consecutive heart rate notifications of 190/192/194); 10. The method of claim 1, wherein triggers and patterns of trigger can be set within a duration a one-time activity (e.g., one run) or based on the same type of activity that takes place over different times (e.g., for a 3-day run training regimen, triggers a re max heart rate at 190 on day 1, max heart rate at 195 on day 2 and max heart rate at 200 on day 3); 11. The method of claim 1, wherein triggers and patterns of trigger can be set based on different types of activity that take place over different times or stages (e.g., for a multi-sport regimen such as an ironman, triggers a re max heart rate at 190 for the swim part, max heart rate at 195 for the bike part and max heart rate at 200 for the run part); 12. The method of claim 1, wherein triggers and patterns of triggers can be set with a delay relative to the start of an activity or an event (e.g., a trigger only becomes active after the first 20 miles of a marathon or, in another example, a trigger only becomes active after the first 2 hours of a marathon). In this case, the triggers and patterns of triggers only become active and still need to wait for data to be activated and to start a delivery process; 13. The method of claim 12, wherein triggers and patterns of triggers can be set to become active automatically when the start of the event is known (e.g., a user knows the start time of a marathon and sets the activated time to be 2 hours after the start); 14. The method of claim 12, wherein triggers and patterns of triggers can be set to become active by manual input from the account owner or the account owner's authorized users when the start of the event is unknown (e.g., a person doesn't know when exactly he will fall into deep sleep). In this case, the account owners themselves or the account owners' authorized users manually indicate in the method that the start of an activity or an event has begun (i.e., the authorized users manually input the time the user falls into deep sleep); 15. The method of claim 1, wherein users can set a duration of time during which a trigger or pattern of triggers occurs (e.g., a single trigger with a constant heart rate measurement of 180 within a 30-second time frame or a set of three decreasing heart rate measurements of 180/150/130 within a 30-second duration); 16. The method of claim 1, wherein users can set a frequency and the number of times to detect a trigger or pattern of triggers (e.g., a pattern of triggers with a set of 3 specific heart rates to be measured every 2 minutes for 10 times); 17. The method of claim 1, wherein users can set a specific or non-specific pattern of triggers that includes measurements above, below or both above and below a zone (e.g., fora heart rate zone of 170-180, a specific pattern of triggers is the 3 heart rate measurements of 170/170/170, and a non-specific pattern of triggers is the heart rate measurements of above/above/below the defined heart rate zone: 181 or higher/181 or higher/170 or lower); 18. The method of claim 1, wherein users can set a combination of similar types of triggers or patterns of triggers (e.g., for the same heart rate zone of 170 to 180, trigger #1 is set at 171, trigger #2 is set at 179 and trigger #3 is set as a pattern of 170/175/180); 19. The method of claim 1, wherein users can set a combination of different types of triggers or patterns of triggers (e.g., a specific pattern of triggers of 3 heart rate measurements of 190/190/110 only when the pace is 10 min/mile or faster); 20. The method of claims 8 through 17, wherein users can set a single trigger, a single pattern of triggers or any combination of triggers and patterns of triggers from one or different types of activity and health data (e.g., a specific pattern of triggers of 3 heart rate measurements of 190/190/110 only when temperature is above 90° F.); 21. The method of claims 8 to 18, wherein triggers and patterns of triggers can be set with other smart devices instead of with a smart watch. An example of other smart devices is a smart bottle made by H2Opal, Hidrate Spark 3 or Ozmo, etc., which measures the amount of fluid consumption. For a 16 ounce bottle, a zone from 1 to 2 ounce of water present in the bottle can be set and similar triggers and patterns of triggers can be set as mentioned in the example of a smart watch from claims 8 to 18; 22. The method of claim 1, wherein triggers and patterns of triggers can be set based on the ratio of activity and health data obtained from the same device or the same type of smart device (e.g., the ratio of speed vs heart rate as a trigger, with both speed and heart rate data obtained from a smart watch); 23. The method of claim 1, wherein triggers and patterns of triggers can be set based on the ratio of activity and health data obtained from different types of smart devices (e.g., the ratio of speed vs the amount of water consumed as a trigger, with speed data obtained from a smart watch and amount of water consumed obtained from a smart bottle); 24. The method of claim 1, wherein users have an option to specify one or multiple recipients to receive a delivery such as an email; 25. The method of claim 19, wherein, in the case of multiple email recipients, users have an option to specify if all recipients can see and reply to the sender and everyone else or if each recipient is the sole recipient of the email and can only reply to the sender; 26. The method of claim 1, wherein users have an option to specify one or multiple social media platforms (e.g., Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, etc.) to concurrently post messages and additional contents based on the same triggers or patterns of triggers; 27. The method of claim 1, wherein a set of triggers and patterns of triggers can be set for different delivery options based upon the result of different sets of triggers and patterns of triggers. For example, a message is set to be sent to a recipient when heart rate reaches above a certain heart rate zone at a temperature below 70° F. and a different message is set to be sent to the same recipient when heart rate reaches above the same heart rate zone at a temperature above 90° F.; 28. The method of claim 1, wherein activity and health data can be generated by an affirmative user action or by a passive user action. An affirmative user action, in order to generate a trigger, involves users physically touching a button, a screen, etc. of a smart device or verbally directing a voice-controlled intelligent personal assistant service such as Alexa. An example of an affirmative user action is the act of a marathon runner pressing the stop button of a triathlon while crossing the finishing line to indicate the end of the marathon (i.e., pressing the button by user generates the trigger). A passive user action involves no direct explicit user action with the device in order to generate a trigger. In this case, users simply wear a device such as a smart watch, carry a device around such as a smart bottle, ride a stationary device such as a smart bike, etc. An example of a passive user action is a person running of the marathon until the watch records the distance of 26.2 miles (i.e., distance automatically recorded by the watch is the trigger); 29. The method of claim 26, in the case of a passive user action, wherein users can intentionally (i.e., knowingly) or unintentionally (i.e., unknowingly) generate activity and health data to match with pre-defined triggers and patterns of triggers. In an example of intentionally generated data, a runner pre-defines a pattern of “below-above-below a heart rate zone within a 10-second period”, then intentionally runs very slow, then very fast, then very slow again in order to generate the data within a 10-second period to match the pattern. In an example of unintentionally generated data, the runner simply runs and when the watch records the previously described pattern without the user being aware of generating that pattern, the system and method will record that a matching of data vs pre-defined pattern of triggers has occurred; 30. The method of claim 1, where in users of the method can use activity and health data generated by themselves or by others. | A system and method for user-controlled and user-activated automatic delivery of physical objects and electronic messages and contents using activity and health data from a smart device is provided. The system and method includes a computer program or smart phone application to define trigger parameters for a delivery. The computer program or smart phone application obtains and analyzes data from smart devices via an application program interface. If these data match with the pre-defined trigger parameters, delivery will occur.1. A system and method for user-controlled and user-activated automatic delivery of physical objects and electronic messages and contents via activity and health data from smart devices, hereinafter referred as “the method”, the method including:
a. providing a user application interface for user to:
document and store physical objects in a physical holding facility; or save electronic messages and electronic contents (e.g., voice recordings, pictures, videos, word documents, PFD files, multimedia) in the server of the method; the electronic contents can be imported directly from social media server or from user device, or can be captured with user device camera immediately prior to being imported, etc.;
tag physical objects and electronic contents with new names and display these names and provide a search function to search for these names;
select an activity and select one or more individuals who generate activity and health data during this activity; activity data include but are not limited to speed, distance, pace, etc.; health data include but are not limited to heart rate, temperature, weight, etc.;
select one or more triggers or patterns of triggers, the selected triggers comprising of activity and health data automatically recorded by a smart device, transferred to the device server and then transferred to the storage server and logic server of the method;
select an optional delay and a duration of the delay of the one or more triggers or pattern of triggers relative to the activity start time;
select a duration and frequency of the one or more triggers or patterns of triggers;
select a one or more physical objects and/or customize one or more electronic messages and attach one or more electronic contents from one or more sources (e.g., user device, the method server, social media server);
select a method of delivery for physical objects (e.g., by truck, by airplane) or select a method of delivery for electronic messages and contents (e.g., text, phone call, email, posting on social media);
select one or more recipients to which the physical objects, electronic messages and contents are to be delivered; the recipients comprising of, but not limited to, a physical address, a person, a smart phone capable of receiving a phone call or a message, a traditional network communication system (e.g., email), an online platform (e.g., publicly accessible website, blog), an instant messaging application (e.g., Messenger, Whatsapp) or a social media platform (e.g., Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, YouTube) which forwards the electronic contents to and posts on the individual account associated with the user on the platform, etc.;
b. storing the predefined triggers, patterns of triggers and electronic messages and contents in the storage server of the method;
c. receiving data from a smart device application interface by the logic server of the method, the logic server matching the incoming data with the stored and pre-defined triggers and patterns of triggers and analyzing for an occurrence of a predefined triggers and pattern of triggers;
d. automatically initiating the process of delivering physical objects and electronic messages and contents to recipients; 2. The method of claim 1, wherein smart devices are devices that can measure, collect and transmit activity and health data while remaining in close proximity with a user. These device can be unportable or portable. Unportable devices are devices that are too heavy or bulky to move or are designed to be stationary. Examples of unportable smart devices include, but are not limited to, a Peloton or an Echelon stationary bicycle. Portable devices are devices that can be easily carried by users or move with users. These devices remain attached to or stay on or in the user's body during an activity or permanently. Examples of a smart portable smart device include, but are not limited to, hand-held devices, implantable devices, wearable devices, fitness trackers, smart watches, smart jewelry, smart clothing, smart shoes or head mounted displays such as smart glasses (e.g., Apple watches, Clim8 smart shirts, FeetMe smart shoes, Google glasses, Garmin power meter pedals on a bicycle, etc). Another example is the H2Opal smart bottle that measures when and how much fluid a person drinks. These bottles can be carried by the user on the shoulder or inside a backpack or a cooler. Another example is the Withings smart scale that monitors weight. Another example is the Fever Scout Wearable Thermometer. Another example is a pace-maker; 3. The method of claim 1, wherein a smart device automatically records and sends data to the device server; these data are then automatically transmitted to the server of the method of claim 1 via an application programmable interface; 4. The method of claim 1, wherein the method grants users direct access to a third party app to directly view electronic contents and import electronic contents to the method server or to attach electronic contents to a trigger to be delivered via a trigger mechanism; 5. The method of claim 1, wherein users can tag an electronic content with new names and display these names while viewing this content or while setting the trigger and attaching this content; 6. The method of claim 1, wherein an activity can include, but is not limited to, a practice, a competition, a performance, a participation of an audience, a daily activity, etc. by one or more individuals; 7. The method of claim 1, wherein an individual includes, but is not limited to, a person, an animal, a robot or a machine, etc. capable of generating data; 8. The method of claim 1, using a smart watch as an example for claims 8 to 18, wherein activity and health triggers are non-specific and specific triggers. An example of a non-specific trigger is any non-specified distance run by a runner that is higher than a defined distance goal (e.g., if the runner defines a distance of 10 miles and a trigger of any distance longer than 10 miles, the trigger will be activated after the runner runs any distance longer than 10 miles such as 10.1 miles, 10.5 miles, 11 miles, etc.). An example of a specific trigger is a specified distance run by a runner that is higher than a defined distance goal (e.g., if the runner defines a goal of 10 miles and a specific trigger of exactly 11 miles, the trigger will not be activated after the runner runs 10 miles but will only be activated when the runner reaches the 11 mile mark); 9. The method of claim 1, wherein activity and health patterns of triggers are non-specific and specific triggers. An example of a non-specific pattern of trigger is a non-specified set of three consecutive heart rate notifications of a runner that are higher than the defined heart rate zone (hereinafter, in beats per minute) (e.g., if the runner defines a heart rate zone of 170 to 180, the pattern of trigger will be activated by any 3 consecutive heart rate notifications higher than 180 such as 185/195/190, 200/195/181, 181/182/183, etc.). An example of a specific pattern of trigger is a specified set of three consecutive heart rate notifications of a runner that are higher than the defined heart rate zone (e.g., if the runner defines a heart rate zone of 170 to 180 and specific pattern of trigger at 190/192/194, the pattern of trigger will only be activated by 3 consecutive heart rate notifications of 190/192/194); 10. The method of claim 1, wherein triggers and patterns of trigger can be set within a duration a one-time activity (e.g., one run) or based on the same type of activity that takes place over different times (e.g., for a 3-day run training regimen, triggers a re max heart rate at 190 on day 1, max heart rate at 195 on day 2 and max heart rate at 200 on day 3); 11. The method of claim 1, wherein triggers and patterns of trigger can be set based on different types of activity that take place over different times or stages (e.g., for a multi-sport regimen such as an ironman, triggers a re max heart rate at 190 for the swim part, max heart rate at 195 for the bike part and max heart rate at 200 for the run part); 12. The method of claim 1, wherein triggers and patterns of triggers can be set with a delay relative to the start of an activity or an event (e.g., a trigger only becomes active after the first 20 miles of a marathon or, in another example, a trigger only becomes active after the first 2 hours of a marathon). In this case, the triggers and patterns of triggers only become active and still need to wait for data to be activated and to start a delivery process; 13. The method of claim 12, wherein triggers and patterns of triggers can be set to become active automatically when the start of the event is known (e.g., a user knows the start time of a marathon and sets the activated time to be 2 hours after the start); 14. The method of claim 12, wherein triggers and patterns of triggers can be set to become active by manual input from the account owner or the account owner's authorized users when the start of the event is unknown (e.g., a person doesn't know when exactly he will fall into deep sleep). In this case, the account owners themselves or the account owners' authorized users manually indicate in the method that the start of an activity or an event has begun (i.e., the authorized users manually input the time the user falls into deep sleep); 15. The method of claim 1, wherein users can set a duration of time during which a trigger or pattern of triggers occurs (e.g., a single trigger with a constant heart rate measurement of 180 within a 30-second time frame or a set of three decreasing heart rate measurements of 180/150/130 within a 30-second duration); 16. The method of claim 1, wherein users can set a frequency and the number of times to detect a trigger or pattern of triggers (e.g., a pattern of triggers with a set of 3 specific heart rates to be measured every 2 minutes for 10 times); 17. The method of claim 1, wherein users can set a specific or non-specific pattern of triggers that includes measurements above, below or both above and below a zone (e.g., fora heart rate zone of 170-180, a specific pattern of triggers is the 3 heart rate measurements of 170/170/170, and a non-specific pattern of triggers is the heart rate measurements of above/above/below the defined heart rate zone: 181 or higher/181 or higher/170 or lower); 18. The method of claim 1, wherein users can set a combination of similar types of triggers or patterns of triggers (e.g., for the same heart rate zone of 170 to 180, trigger #1 is set at 171, trigger #2 is set at 179 and trigger #3 is set as a pattern of 170/175/180); 19. The method of claim 1, wherein users can set a combination of different types of triggers or patterns of triggers (e.g., a specific pattern of triggers of 3 heart rate measurements of 190/190/110 only when the pace is 10 min/mile or faster); 20. The method of claims 8 through 17, wherein users can set a single trigger, a single pattern of triggers or any combination of triggers and patterns of triggers from one or different types of activity and health data (e.g., a specific pattern of triggers of 3 heart rate measurements of 190/190/110 only when temperature is above 90° F.); 21. The method of claims 8 to 18, wherein triggers and patterns of triggers can be set with other smart devices instead of with a smart watch. An example of other smart devices is a smart bottle made by H2Opal, Hidrate Spark 3 or Ozmo, etc., which measures the amount of fluid consumption. For a 16 ounce bottle, a zone from 1 to 2 ounce of water present in the bottle can be set and similar triggers and patterns of triggers can be set as mentioned in the example of a smart watch from claims 8 to 18; 22. The method of claim 1, wherein triggers and patterns of triggers can be set based on the ratio of activity and health data obtained from the same device or the same type of smart device (e.g., the ratio of speed vs heart rate as a trigger, with both speed and heart rate data obtained from a smart watch); 23. The method of claim 1, wherein triggers and patterns of triggers can be set based on the ratio of activity and health data obtained from different types of smart devices (e.g., the ratio of speed vs the amount of water consumed as a trigger, with speed data obtained from a smart watch and amount of water consumed obtained from a smart bottle); 24. The method of claim 1, wherein users have an option to specify one or multiple recipients to receive a delivery such as an email; 25. The method of claim 19, wherein, in the case of multiple email recipients, users have an option to specify if all recipients can see and reply to the sender and everyone else or if each recipient is the sole recipient of the email and can only reply to the sender; 26. The method of claim 1, wherein users have an option to specify one or multiple social media platforms (e.g., Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, etc.) to concurrently post messages and additional contents based on the same triggers or patterns of triggers; 27. The method of claim 1, wherein a set of triggers and patterns of triggers can be set for different delivery options based upon the result of different sets of triggers and patterns of triggers. For example, a message is set to be sent to a recipient when heart rate reaches above a certain heart rate zone at a temperature below 70° F. and a different message is set to be sent to the same recipient when heart rate reaches above the same heart rate zone at a temperature above 90° F.; 28. The method of claim 1, wherein activity and health data can be generated by an affirmative user action or by a passive user action. An affirmative user action, in order to generate a trigger, involves users physically touching a button, a screen, etc. of a smart device or verbally directing a voice-controlled intelligent personal assistant service such as Alexa. An example of an affirmative user action is the act of a marathon runner pressing the stop button of a triathlon while crossing the finishing line to indicate the end of the marathon (i.e., pressing the button by user generates the trigger). A passive user action involves no direct explicit user action with the device in order to generate a trigger. In this case, users simply wear a device such as a smart watch, carry a device around such as a smart bottle, ride a stationary device such as a smart bike, etc. An example of a passive user action is a person running of the marathon until the watch records the distance of 26.2 miles (i.e., distance automatically recorded by the watch is the trigger); 29. The method of claim 26, in the case of a passive user action, wherein users can intentionally (i.e., knowingly) or unintentionally (i.e., unknowingly) generate activity and health data to match with pre-defined triggers and patterns of triggers. In an example of intentionally generated data, a runner pre-defines a pattern of “below-above-below a heart rate zone within a 10-second period”, then intentionally runs very slow, then very fast, then very slow again in order to generate the data within a 10-second period to match the pattern. In an example of unintentionally generated data, the runner simply runs and when the watch records the previously described pattern without the user being aware of generating that pattern, the system and method will record that a matching of data vs pre-defined pattern of triggers has occurred; 30. The method of claim 1, where in users of the method can use activity and health data generated by themselves or by others. | 2,400 |
349,327 | 16,806,893 | 2,446 | A system and method for user-controlled and user-activated automatic delivery of physical objects and electronic messages and contents using activity and health data from a smart device is provided. The system and method includes a computer program or smart phone application to define trigger parameters for a delivery. The computer program or smart phone application obtains and analyzes data from smart devices via an application program interface. If these data match with the pre-defined trigger parameters, delivery will occur. | 1. A system and method for user-controlled and user-activated automatic delivery of physical objects and electronic messages and contents via activity and health data from smart devices, hereinafter referred as “the method”, the method including:
a. providing a user application interface for user to:
document and store physical objects in a physical holding facility; or save electronic messages and electronic contents (e.g., voice recordings, pictures, videos, word documents, PFD files, multimedia) in the server of the method; the electronic contents can be imported directly from social media server or from user device, or can be captured with user device camera immediately prior to being imported, etc.;
tag physical objects and electronic contents with new names and display these names and provide a search function to search for these names;
select an activity and select one or more individuals who generate activity and health data during this activity; activity data include but are not limited to speed, distance, pace, etc.; health data include but are not limited to heart rate, temperature, weight, etc.;
select one or more triggers or patterns of triggers, the selected triggers comprising of activity and health data automatically recorded by a smart device, transferred to the device server and then transferred to the storage server and logic server of the method;
select an optional delay and a duration of the delay of the one or more triggers or pattern of triggers relative to the activity start time;
select a duration and frequency of the one or more triggers or patterns of triggers;
select a one or more physical objects and/or customize one or more electronic messages and attach one or more electronic contents from one or more sources (e.g., user device, the method server, social media server);
select a method of delivery for physical objects (e.g., by truck, by airplane) or select a method of delivery for electronic messages and contents (e.g., text, phone call, email, posting on social media);
select one or more recipients to which the physical objects, electronic messages and contents are to be delivered; the recipients comprising of, but not limited to, a physical address, a person, a smart phone capable of receiving a phone call or a message, a traditional network communication system (e.g., email), an online platform (e.g., publicly accessible website, blog), an instant messaging application (e.g., Messenger, Whatsapp) or a social media platform (e.g., Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, YouTube) which forwards the electronic contents to and posts on the individual account associated with the user on the platform, etc.;
b. storing the predefined triggers, patterns of triggers and electronic messages and contents in the storage server of the method;
c. receiving data from a smart device application interface by the logic server of the method, the logic server matching the incoming data with the stored and pre-defined triggers and patterns of triggers and analyzing for an occurrence of a predefined triggers and pattern of triggers;
d. automatically initiating the process of delivering physical objects and electronic messages and contents to recipients; 2. The method of claim 1, wherein smart devices are devices that can measure, collect and transmit activity and health data while remaining in close proximity with a user. These device can be unportable or portable. Unportable devices are devices that are too heavy or bulky to move or are designed to be stationary. Examples of unportable smart devices include, but are not limited to, a Peloton or an Echelon stationary bicycle. Portable devices are devices that can be easily carried by users or move with users. These devices remain attached to or stay on or in the user's body during an activity or permanently. Examples of a smart portable smart device include, but are not limited to, hand-held devices, implantable devices, wearable devices, fitness trackers, smart watches, smart jewelry, smart clothing, smart shoes or head mounted displays such as smart glasses (e.g., Apple watches, Clim8 smart shirts, FeetMe smart shoes, Google glasses, Garmin power meter pedals on a bicycle, etc). Another example is the H2Opal smart bottle that measures when and how much fluid a person drinks. These bottles can be carried by the user on the shoulder or inside a backpack or a cooler. Another example is the Withings smart scale that monitors weight. Another example is the Fever Scout Wearable Thermometer. Another example is a pace-maker; 3. The method of claim 1, wherein a smart device automatically records and sends data to the device server; these data are then automatically transmitted to the server of the method of claim 1 via an application programmable interface; 4. The method of claim 1, wherein the method grants users direct access to a third party app to directly view electronic contents and import electronic contents to the method server or to attach electronic contents to a trigger to be delivered via a trigger mechanism; 5. The method of claim 1, wherein users can tag an electronic content with new names and display these names while viewing this content or while setting the trigger and attaching this content; 6. The method of claim 1, wherein an activity can include, but is not limited to, a practice, a competition, a performance, a participation of an audience, a daily activity, etc. by one or more individuals; 7. The method of claim 1, wherein an individual includes, but is not limited to, a person, an animal, a robot or a machine, etc. capable of generating data; 8. The method of claim 1, using a smart watch as an example for claims 8 to 18, wherein activity and health triggers are non-specific and specific triggers. An example of a non-specific trigger is any non-specified distance run by a runner that is higher than a defined distance goal (e.g., if the runner defines a distance of 10 miles and a trigger of any distance longer than 10 miles, the trigger will be activated after the runner runs any distance longer than 10 miles such as 10.1 miles, 10.5 miles, 11 miles, etc.). An example of a specific trigger is a specified distance run by a runner that is higher than a defined distance goal (e.g., if the runner defines a goal of 10 miles and a specific trigger of exactly 11 miles, the trigger will not be activated after the runner runs 10 miles but will only be activated when the runner reaches the 11 mile mark); 9. The method of claim 1, wherein activity and health patterns of triggers are non-specific and specific triggers. An example of a non-specific pattern of trigger is a non-specified set of three consecutive heart rate notifications of a runner that are higher than the defined heart rate zone (hereinafter, in beats per minute) (e.g., if the runner defines a heart rate zone of 170 to 180, the pattern of trigger will be activated by any 3 consecutive heart rate notifications higher than 180 such as 185/195/190, 200/195/181, 181/182/183, etc.). An example of a specific pattern of trigger is a specified set of three consecutive heart rate notifications of a runner that are higher than the defined heart rate zone (e.g., if the runner defines a heart rate zone of 170 to 180 and specific pattern of trigger at 190/192/194, the pattern of trigger will only be activated by 3 consecutive heart rate notifications of 190/192/194); 10. The method of claim 1, wherein triggers and patterns of trigger can be set within a duration a one-time activity (e.g., one run) or based on the same type of activity that takes place over different times (e.g., for a 3-day run training regimen, triggers a re max heart rate at 190 on day 1, max heart rate at 195 on day 2 and max heart rate at 200 on day 3); 11. The method of claim 1, wherein triggers and patterns of trigger can be set based on different types of activity that take place over different times or stages (e.g., for a multi-sport regimen such as an ironman, triggers a re max heart rate at 190 for the swim part, max heart rate at 195 for the bike part and max heart rate at 200 for the run part); 12. The method of claim 1, wherein triggers and patterns of triggers can be set with a delay relative to the start of an activity or an event (e.g., a trigger only becomes active after the first 20 miles of a marathon or, in another example, a trigger only becomes active after the first 2 hours of a marathon). In this case, the triggers and patterns of triggers only become active and still need to wait for data to be activated and to start a delivery process; 13. The method of claim 12, wherein triggers and patterns of triggers can be set to become active automatically when the start of the event is known (e.g., a user knows the start time of a marathon and sets the activated time to be 2 hours after the start); 14. The method of claim 12, wherein triggers and patterns of triggers can be set to become active by manual input from the account owner or the account owner's authorized users when the start of the event is unknown (e.g., a person doesn't know when exactly he will fall into deep sleep). In this case, the account owners themselves or the account owners' authorized users manually indicate in the method that the start of an activity or an event has begun (i.e., the authorized users manually input the time the user falls into deep sleep); 15. The method of claim 1, wherein users can set a duration of time during which a trigger or pattern of triggers occurs (e.g., a single trigger with a constant heart rate measurement of 180 within a 30-second time frame or a set of three decreasing heart rate measurements of 180/150/130 within a 30-second duration); 16. The method of claim 1, wherein users can set a frequency and the number of times to detect a trigger or pattern of triggers (e.g., a pattern of triggers with a set of 3 specific heart rates to be measured every 2 minutes for 10 times); 17. The method of claim 1, wherein users can set a specific or non-specific pattern of triggers that includes measurements above, below or both above and below a zone (e.g., fora heart rate zone of 170-180, a specific pattern of triggers is the 3 heart rate measurements of 170/170/170, and a non-specific pattern of triggers is the heart rate measurements of above/above/below the defined heart rate zone: 181 or higher/181 or higher/170 or lower); 18. The method of claim 1, wherein users can set a combination of similar types of triggers or patterns of triggers (e.g., for the same heart rate zone of 170 to 180, trigger #1 is set at 171, trigger #2 is set at 179 and trigger #3 is set as a pattern of 170/175/180); 19. The method of claim 1, wherein users can set a combination of different types of triggers or patterns of triggers (e.g., a specific pattern of triggers of 3 heart rate measurements of 190/190/110 only when the pace is 10 min/mile or faster); 20. The method of claims 8 through 17, wherein users can set a single trigger, a single pattern of triggers or any combination of triggers and patterns of triggers from one or different types of activity and health data (e.g., a specific pattern of triggers of 3 heart rate measurements of 190/190/110 only when temperature is above 90° F.); 21. The method of claims 8 to 18, wherein triggers and patterns of triggers can be set with other smart devices instead of with a smart watch. An example of other smart devices is a smart bottle made by H2Opal, Hidrate Spark 3 or Ozmo, etc., which measures the amount of fluid consumption. For a 16 ounce bottle, a zone from 1 to 2 ounce of water present in the bottle can be set and similar triggers and patterns of triggers can be set as mentioned in the example of a smart watch from claims 8 to 18; 22. The method of claim 1, wherein triggers and patterns of triggers can be set based on the ratio of activity and health data obtained from the same device or the same type of smart device (e.g., the ratio of speed vs heart rate as a trigger, with both speed and heart rate data obtained from a smart watch); 23. The method of claim 1, wherein triggers and patterns of triggers can be set based on the ratio of activity and health data obtained from different types of smart devices (e.g., the ratio of speed vs the amount of water consumed as a trigger, with speed data obtained from a smart watch and amount of water consumed obtained from a smart bottle); 24. The method of claim 1, wherein users have an option to specify one or multiple recipients to receive a delivery such as an email; 25. The method of claim 19, wherein, in the case of multiple email recipients, users have an option to specify if all recipients can see and reply to the sender and everyone else or if each recipient is the sole recipient of the email and can only reply to the sender; 26. The method of claim 1, wherein users have an option to specify one or multiple social media platforms (e.g., Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, etc.) to concurrently post messages and additional contents based on the same triggers or patterns of triggers; 27. The method of claim 1, wherein a set of triggers and patterns of triggers can be set for different delivery options based upon the result of different sets of triggers and patterns of triggers. For example, a message is set to be sent to a recipient when heart rate reaches above a certain heart rate zone at a temperature below 70° F. and a different message is set to be sent to the same recipient when heart rate reaches above the same heart rate zone at a temperature above 90° F.; 28. The method of claim 1, wherein activity and health data can be generated by an affirmative user action or by a passive user action. An affirmative user action, in order to generate a trigger, involves users physically touching a button, a screen, etc. of a smart device or verbally directing a voice-controlled intelligent personal assistant service such as Alexa. An example of an affirmative user action is the act of a marathon runner pressing the stop button of a triathlon while crossing the finishing line to indicate the end of the marathon (i.e., pressing the button by user generates the trigger). A passive user action involves no direct explicit user action with the device in order to generate a trigger. In this case, users simply wear a device such as a smart watch, carry a device around such as a smart bottle, ride a stationary device such as a smart bike, etc. An example of a passive user action is a person running of the marathon until the watch records the distance of 26.2 miles (i.e., distance automatically recorded by the watch is the trigger); 29. The method of claim 26, in the case of a passive user action, wherein users can intentionally (i.e., knowingly) or unintentionally (i.e., unknowingly) generate activity and health data to match with pre-defined triggers and patterns of triggers. In an example of intentionally generated data, a runner pre-defines a pattern of “below-above-below a heart rate zone within a 10-second period”, then intentionally runs very slow, then very fast, then very slow again in order to generate the data within a 10-second period to match the pattern. In an example of unintentionally generated data, the runner simply runs and when the watch records the previously described pattern without the user being aware of generating that pattern, the system and method will record that a matching of data vs pre-defined pattern of triggers has occurred; 30. The method of claim 1, where in users of the method can use activity and health data generated by themselves or by others. | A system and method for user-controlled and user-activated automatic delivery of physical objects and electronic messages and contents using activity and health data from a smart device is provided. The system and method includes a computer program or smart phone application to define trigger parameters for a delivery. The computer program or smart phone application obtains and analyzes data from smart devices via an application program interface. If these data match with the pre-defined trigger parameters, delivery will occur.1. A system and method for user-controlled and user-activated automatic delivery of physical objects and electronic messages and contents via activity and health data from smart devices, hereinafter referred as “the method”, the method including:
a. providing a user application interface for user to:
document and store physical objects in a physical holding facility; or save electronic messages and electronic contents (e.g., voice recordings, pictures, videos, word documents, PFD files, multimedia) in the server of the method; the electronic contents can be imported directly from social media server or from user device, or can be captured with user device camera immediately prior to being imported, etc.;
tag physical objects and electronic contents with new names and display these names and provide a search function to search for these names;
select an activity and select one or more individuals who generate activity and health data during this activity; activity data include but are not limited to speed, distance, pace, etc.; health data include but are not limited to heart rate, temperature, weight, etc.;
select one or more triggers or patterns of triggers, the selected triggers comprising of activity and health data automatically recorded by a smart device, transferred to the device server and then transferred to the storage server and logic server of the method;
select an optional delay and a duration of the delay of the one or more triggers or pattern of triggers relative to the activity start time;
select a duration and frequency of the one or more triggers or patterns of triggers;
select a one or more physical objects and/or customize one or more electronic messages and attach one or more electronic contents from one or more sources (e.g., user device, the method server, social media server);
select a method of delivery for physical objects (e.g., by truck, by airplane) or select a method of delivery for electronic messages and contents (e.g., text, phone call, email, posting on social media);
select one or more recipients to which the physical objects, electronic messages and contents are to be delivered; the recipients comprising of, but not limited to, a physical address, a person, a smart phone capable of receiving a phone call or a message, a traditional network communication system (e.g., email), an online platform (e.g., publicly accessible website, blog), an instant messaging application (e.g., Messenger, Whatsapp) or a social media platform (e.g., Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, YouTube) which forwards the electronic contents to and posts on the individual account associated with the user on the platform, etc.;
b. storing the predefined triggers, patterns of triggers and electronic messages and contents in the storage server of the method;
c. receiving data from a smart device application interface by the logic server of the method, the logic server matching the incoming data with the stored and pre-defined triggers and patterns of triggers and analyzing for an occurrence of a predefined triggers and pattern of triggers;
d. automatically initiating the process of delivering physical objects and electronic messages and contents to recipients; 2. The method of claim 1, wherein smart devices are devices that can measure, collect and transmit activity and health data while remaining in close proximity with a user. These device can be unportable or portable. Unportable devices are devices that are too heavy or bulky to move or are designed to be stationary. Examples of unportable smart devices include, but are not limited to, a Peloton or an Echelon stationary bicycle. Portable devices are devices that can be easily carried by users or move with users. These devices remain attached to or stay on or in the user's body during an activity or permanently. Examples of a smart portable smart device include, but are not limited to, hand-held devices, implantable devices, wearable devices, fitness trackers, smart watches, smart jewelry, smart clothing, smart shoes or head mounted displays such as smart glasses (e.g., Apple watches, Clim8 smart shirts, FeetMe smart shoes, Google glasses, Garmin power meter pedals on a bicycle, etc). Another example is the H2Opal smart bottle that measures when and how much fluid a person drinks. These bottles can be carried by the user on the shoulder or inside a backpack or a cooler. Another example is the Withings smart scale that monitors weight. Another example is the Fever Scout Wearable Thermometer. Another example is a pace-maker; 3. The method of claim 1, wherein a smart device automatically records and sends data to the device server; these data are then automatically transmitted to the server of the method of claim 1 via an application programmable interface; 4. The method of claim 1, wherein the method grants users direct access to a third party app to directly view electronic contents and import electronic contents to the method server or to attach electronic contents to a trigger to be delivered via a trigger mechanism; 5. The method of claim 1, wherein users can tag an electronic content with new names and display these names while viewing this content or while setting the trigger and attaching this content; 6. The method of claim 1, wherein an activity can include, but is not limited to, a practice, a competition, a performance, a participation of an audience, a daily activity, etc. by one or more individuals; 7. The method of claim 1, wherein an individual includes, but is not limited to, a person, an animal, a robot or a machine, etc. capable of generating data; 8. The method of claim 1, using a smart watch as an example for claims 8 to 18, wherein activity and health triggers are non-specific and specific triggers. An example of a non-specific trigger is any non-specified distance run by a runner that is higher than a defined distance goal (e.g., if the runner defines a distance of 10 miles and a trigger of any distance longer than 10 miles, the trigger will be activated after the runner runs any distance longer than 10 miles such as 10.1 miles, 10.5 miles, 11 miles, etc.). An example of a specific trigger is a specified distance run by a runner that is higher than a defined distance goal (e.g., if the runner defines a goal of 10 miles and a specific trigger of exactly 11 miles, the trigger will not be activated after the runner runs 10 miles but will only be activated when the runner reaches the 11 mile mark); 9. The method of claim 1, wherein activity and health patterns of triggers are non-specific and specific triggers. An example of a non-specific pattern of trigger is a non-specified set of three consecutive heart rate notifications of a runner that are higher than the defined heart rate zone (hereinafter, in beats per minute) (e.g., if the runner defines a heart rate zone of 170 to 180, the pattern of trigger will be activated by any 3 consecutive heart rate notifications higher than 180 such as 185/195/190, 200/195/181, 181/182/183, etc.). An example of a specific pattern of trigger is a specified set of three consecutive heart rate notifications of a runner that are higher than the defined heart rate zone (e.g., if the runner defines a heart rate zone of 170 to 180 and specific pattern of trigger at 190/192/194, the pattern of trigger will only be activated by 3 consecutive heart rate notifications of 190/192/194); 10. The method of claim 1, wherein triggers and patterns of trigger can be set within a duration a one-time activity (e.g., one run) or based on the same type of activity that takes place over different times (e.g., for a 3-day run training regimen, triggers a re max heart rate at 190 on day 1, max heart rate at 195 on day 2 and max heart rate at 200 on day 3); 11. The method of claim 1, wherein triggers and patterns of trigger can be set based on different types of activity that take place over different times or stages (e.g., for a multi-sport regimen such as an ironman, triggers a re max heart rate at 190 for the swim part, max heart rate at 195 for the bike part and max heart rate at 200 for the run part); 12. The method of claim 1, wherein triggers and patterns of triggers can be set with a delay relative to the start of an activity or an event (e.g., a trigger only becomes active after the first 20 miles of a marathon or, in another example, a trigger only becomes active after the first 2 hours of a marathon). In this case, the triggers and patterns of triggers only become active and still need to wait for data to be activated and to start a delivery process; 13. The method of claim 12, wherein triggers and patterns of triggers can be set to become active automatically when the start of the event is known (e.g., a user knows the start time of a marathon and sets the activated time to be 2 hours after the start); 14. The method of claim 12, wherein triggers and patterns of triggers can be set to become active by manual input from the account owner or the account owner's authorized users when the start of the event is unknown (e.g., a person doesn't know when exactly he will fall into deep sleep). In this case, the account owners themselves or the account owners' authorized users manually indicate in the method that the start of an activity or an event has begun (i.e., the authorized users manually input the time the user falls into deep sleep); 15. The method of claim 1, wherein users can set a duration of time during which a trigger or pattern of triggers occurs (e.g., a single trigger with a constant heart rate measurement of 180 within a 30-second time frame or a set of three decreasing heart rate measurements of 180/150/130 within a 30-second duration); 16. The method of claim 1, wherein users can set a frequency and the number of times to detect a trigger or pattern of triggers (e.g., a pattern of triggers with a set of 3 specific heart rates to be measured every 2 minutes for 10 times); 17. The method of claim 1, wherein users can set a specific or non-specific pattern of triggers that includes measurements above, below or both above and below a zone (e.g., fora heart rate zone of 170-180, a specific pattern of triggers is the 3 heart rate measurements of 170/170/170, and a non-specific pattern of triggers is the heart rate measurements of above/above/below the defined heart rate zone: 181 or higher/181 or higher/170 or lower); 18. The method of claim 1, wherein users can set a combination of similar types of triggers or patterns of triggers (e.g., for the same heart rate zone of 170 to 180, trigger #1 is set at 171, trigger #2 is set at 179 and trigger #3 is set as a pattern of 170/175/180); 19. The method of claim 1, wherein users can set a combination of different types of triggers or patterns of triggers (e.g., a specific pattern of triggers of 3 heart rate measurements of 190/190/110 only when the pace is 10 min/mile or faster); 20. The method of claims 8 through 17, wherein users can set a single trigger, a single pattern of triggers or any combination of triggers and patterns of triggers from one or different types of activity and health data (e.g., a specific pattern of triggers of 3 heart rate measurements of 190/190/110 only when temperature is above 90° F.); 21. The method of claims 8 to 18, wherein triggers and patterns of triggers can be set with other smart devices instead of with a smart watch. An example of other smart devices is a smart bottle made by H2Opal, Hidrate Spark 3 or Ozmo, etc., which measures the amount of fluid consumption. For a 16 ounce bottle, a zone from 1 to 2 ounce of water present in the bottle can be set and similar triggers and patterns of triggers can be set as mentioned in the example of a smart watch from claims 8 to 18; 22. The method of claim 1, wherein triggers and patterns of triggers can be set based on the ratio of activity and health data obtained from the same device or the same type of smart device (e.g., the ratio of speed vs heart rate as a trigger, with both speed and heart rate data obtained from a smart watch); 23. The method of claim 1, wherein triggers and patterns of triggers can be set based on the ratio of activity and health data obtained from different types of smart devices (e.g., the ratio of speed vs the amount of water consumed as a trigger, with speed data obtained from a smart watch and amount of water consumed obtained from a smart bottle); 24. The method of claim 1, wherein users have an option to specify one or multiple recipients to receive a delivery such as an email; 25. The method of claim 19, wherein, in the case of multiple email recipients, users have an option to specify if all recipients can see and reply to the sender and everyone else or if each recipient is the sole recipient of the email and can only reply to the sender; 26. The method of claim 1, wherein users have an option to specify one or multiple social media platforms (e.g., Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, etc.) to concurrently post messages and additional contents based on the same triggers or patterns of triggers; 27. The method of claim 1, wherein a set of triggers and patterns of triggers can be set for different delivery options based upon the result of different sets of triggers and patterns of triggers. For example, a message is set to be sent to a recipient when heart rate reaches above a certain heart rate zone at a temperature below 70° F. and a different message is set to be sent to the same recipient when heart rate reaches above the same heart rate zone at a temperature above 90° F.; 28. The method of claim 1, wherein activity and health data can be generated by an affirmative user action or by a passive user action. An affirmative user action, in order to generate a trigger, involves users physically touching a button, a screen, etc. of a smart device or verbally directing a voice-controlled intelligent personal assistant service such as Alexa. An example of an affirmative user action is the act of a marathon runner pressing the stop button of a triathlon while crossing the finishing line to indicate the end of the marathon (i.e., pressing the button by user generates the trigger). A passive user action involves no direct explicit user action with the device in order to generate a trigger. In this case, users simply wear a device such as a smart watch, carry a device around such as a smart bottle, ride a stationary device such as a smart bike, etc. An example of a passive user action is a person running of the marathon until the watch records the distance of 26.2 miles (i.e., distance automatically recorded by the watch is the trigger); 29. The method of claim 26, in the case of a passive user action, wherein users can intentionally (i.e., knowingly) or unintentionally (i.e., unknowingly) generate activity and health data to match with pre-defined triggers and patterns of triggers. In an example of intentionally generated data, a runner pre-defines a pattern of “below-above-below a heart rate zone within a 10-second period”, then intentionally runs very slow, then very fast, then very slow again in order to generate the data within a 10-second period to match the pattern. In an example of unintentionally generated data, the runner simply runs and when the watch records the previously described pattern without the user being aware of generating that pattern, the system and method will record that a matching of data vs pre-defined pattern of triggers has occurred; 30. The method of claim 1, where in users of the method can use activity and health data generated by themselves or by others. | 2,400 |
349,328 | 16,806,891 | 2,446 | A communication circuit includes a first buffer configured to output a signal indicative of a first logic state or a second logic state, a signal in which the first logic state and the second logic state are defined being input to the first buffer, a second buffer configured to output a signal indicative of any one of the first logic state, the second logic state, and a third logic state, the signal output from the first buffer being input to the second buffer, and a monitoring circuit configured to monitor a logic state indicated by the signal output from the first buffer and cause the second buffer, in a case where the logic state does not change during a first period, to output the signal indicative of the third logic state. | 1. A communication circuit comprising:
a first buffer configured to output a signal indicative of a first logic state or a second logic state, a signal in which the first logic state and the second logic state are defined being input to the first buffer,; a second buffer configured to output a signal indicative of any one of the first logic state, the second logic state, and a third logic state, the signal output from the first buffer being input to the second buffer; and a monitoring circuit configured to monitor a logic state indicated by the signal output from the first buffer and cause the second buffer, in a case where the logic state does not change during a first period, to output the signal indicative of the third logic state. 2. The communication circuit according to claim 1,
wherein, when a change in a logic state indicated by the signal output from the first buffer is detected in a case where the second buffer outputs the signal indicating the third logic state, the monitoring circuit causes the second buffer to output the signal indicative of the logic state indicated by the signal output from the first buffer. 3. The communication circuit according to claim 1, the communication circuit further comprising:
a delay circuit being provided between the first buffer and the second buffer and configured to delay the signal output from the first buffer for the first period. 4. The communication circuit according to claim 1,
wherein, when a change in a logic state indicated by the signal output from the first buffer is detected in a case where the second buffer outputs the signal indicating the third logic state, the monitoring circuit causes the second buffer to output the signal indicative of the logic state indicated by the signal output from the first buffer following an elapse of the first period after the change is detected. 5. The communication circuit according to claim 1,
wherein the monitoring circuit includes a counter which is configured to be reset at each change of the logic state indicated by the signal output from the first buffer, and wherein the monitoring circuit outputs a signal for inactivating the second buffer to the second buffer when the counter counts to a first value corresponding to the first period. 6. The communication circuit according to claim 4,
wherein the monitoring circuit includes a counter which is configured to be reset at each change of the logic state indicated by the signal output from the first buffer, and wherein, when a count value of the counter before the resetting is less than a first value corresponding to the first period, the monitoring circuit outputs a signal for activating the second buffer to the second buffer in synchronization with a reset of the counter, wherein, when the count value of the counter before the resetting is equal to or greater than the first value, the monitoring circuit outputs the signal for activating the second buffer to the second buffer following the counter counting to the first value after the resetting. 7. The communication circuit according to claim 1, the communication circuit comprising:
a third buffer, a signal in which the first logic state, the second logic state, and the third logic state are defined being input to the third buffer; a fourth buffer configured to output a signal indicative of the first logic state or the second logic state, a signal output from the third buffer being input to the fourth buffer; and a fifth buffer configured to output a signal for inactivating the fourth buffer to the fourth buffer when detecting that the input signal is in the third logic state, the signal in which the first logic state, the second logic state, and the third logic state are defined being input to the fifth buffer. 8. The communication circuit according to claim 1,
wherein the first period is a period of time during which a same logic state is allowed to continue in a signal transmitted or received by an integrated circuit to which the signal output from the second buffer is supplied. 9. A communication system, comprising:
a transmission circuit; a reception circuit disposed close to the transmission circuit; and a coupler configured to couple between transmission lines of the transmission circuit and the reception circuit by electromagnetic field coupling, wherein wireless communication is performed between the transmission circuit and the reception circuit, and wherein the reception circuit includes
a first buffer configured to output a signal indicative of a first logic state or a second logic state, a signal in which the first logic state and the second logic state are defined being input to the first buffer,
a second buffer configured to output a signal indicative of any one of the first logic state, the second logic state, and a third logic state, the signal output from the first buffer being input to the second buffer, and
a monitoring circuit configured to monitor a logic state indicated by the signal output from the first buffer and cause the second buffer, in a case where the logic state does not change during a first period, to output the signal indicative of the third logic state. 10. The communication system according to claim 9,
wherein, when a change in a logic state indicated by the signal output from the first buffer is detected in a case where the second buffer outputs the signal indicating the third logic state, the monitoring circuit causes the second buffer to output the signal indicative of the logic state indicated by the signal output from the first buffer. 11. The communication system according to claim 9, the communication system further comprising:
a delay circuit being provided between the first buffer and the second buffer and configured to delay the signal output from the first buffer for the first period. 12. The communication system according to claim 9,
wherein, when a change in a logic state indicated by the signal output from the first buffer is detected in a case where the second buffer outputs the signal indicating the third logic state, the monitoring circuit causes the second buffer to output the signal indicative of the logic state indicated by the signal output from the first buffer following an elapse of the first period after the change is detected. 13. A communication method by using a communication circuit, the communication method comprising:
outputting, by a first buffer, a signal indicative of a first logic state or a second logic state, a signal in which the first logic state and the second logic state are defined being input to the first buffer; outputting, by a second buffer, a signal indicative of any one of the first logic state, the second logic state, and a third logic state, the signal output from the first buffer being input to the second buffer, and causing, by a monitoring circuit configured to monitor a logic state indicated by the signal output from the first buffer, the second buffer to output the signal indicative of the third logic state in a case where the logic state does not change during a first period. 14. The communication method according to claim 13,
wherein, when a change in a logic state indicated by the signal output from the first buffer is detected in a case where the second buffer outputs the signal indicating the third logic state, the monitoring circuit causes the second buffer to output the signal indicative of the logic state indicated by the signal output from the first buffer to be output to the second buffer. 15. The communication method according to claim 13,
wherein a delay circuit provided between the first buffer and the second buffer causes the signal output from the first buffer to delay for the first period. 16. The communication method according to claim 15,
wherein, when a change in a logic state indicated by the signal output from the first buffer is detected in a case where the second buffer outputs the signal indicating the third logic state, the monitoring circuit causes the second buffer to output the signal of the logic state indicated by the signal output from the first buffer following an elapse of the first period after the change is detected. | A communication circuit includes a first buffer configured to output a signal indicative of a first logic state or a second logic state, a signal in which the first logic state and the second logic state are defined being input to the first buffer, a second buffer configured to output a signal indicative of any one of the first logic state, the second logic state, and a third logic state, the signal output from the first buffer being input to the second buffer, and a monitoring circuit configured to monitor a logic state indicated by the signal output from the first buffer and cause the second buffer, in a case where the logic state does not change during a first period, to output the signal indicative of the third logic state.1. A communication circuit comprising:
a first buffer configured to output a signal indicative of a first logic state or a second logic state, a signal in which the first logic state and the second logic state are defined being input to the first buffer,; a second buffer configured to output a signal indicative of any one of the first logic state, the second logic state, and a third logic state, the signal output from the first buffer being input to the second buffer; and a monitoring circuit configured to monitor a logic state indicated by the signal output from the first buffer and cause the second buffer, in a case where the logic state does not change during a first period, to output the signal indicative of the third logic state. 2. The communication circuit according to claim 1,
wherein, when a change in a logic state indicated by the signal output from the first buffer is detected in a case where the second buffer outputs the signal indicating the third logic state, the monitoring circuit causes the second buffer to output the signal indicative of the logic state indicated by the signal output from the first buffer. 3. The communication circuit according to claim 1, the communication circuit further comprising:
a delay circuit being provided between the first buffer and the second buffer and configured to delay the signal output from the first buffer for the first period. 4. The communication circuit according to claim 1,
wherein, when a change in a logic state indicated by the signal output from the first buffer is detected in a case where the second buffer outputs the signal indicating the third logic state, the monitoring circuit causes the second buffer to output the signal indicative of the logic state indicated by the signal output from the first buffer following an elapse of the first period after the change is detected. 5. The communication circuit according to claim 1,
wherein the monitoring circuit includes a counter which is configured to be reset at each change of the logic state indicated by the signal output from the first buffer, and wherein the monitoring circuit outputs a signal for inactivating the second buffer to the second buffer when the counter counts to a first value corresponding to the first period. 6. The communication circuit according to claim 4,
wherein the monitoring circuit includes a counter which is configured to be reset at each change of the logic state indicated by the signal output from the first buffer, and wherein, when a count value of the counter before the resetting is less than a first value corresponding to the first period, the monitoring circuit outputs a signal for activating the second buffer to the second buffer in synchronization with a reset of the counter, wherein, when the count value of the counter before the resetting is equal to or greater than the first value, the monitoring circuit outputs the signal for activating the second buffer to the second buffer following the counter counting to the first value after the resetting. 7. The communication circuit according to claim 1, the communication circuit comprising:
a third buffer, a signal in which the first logic state, the second logic state, and the third logic state are defined being input to the third buffer; a fourth buffer configured to output a signal indicative of the first logic state or the second logic state, a signal output from the third buffer being input to the fourth buffer; and a fifth buffer configured to output a signal for inactivating the fourth buffer to the fourth buffer when detecting that the input signal is in the third logic state, the signal in which the first logic state, the second logic state, and the third logic state are defined being input to the fifth buffer. 8. The communication circuit according to claim 1,
wherein the first period is a period of time during which a same logic state is allowed to continue in a signal transmitted or received by an integrated circuit to which the signal output from the second buffer is supplied. 9. A communication system, comprising:
a transmission circuit; a reception circuit disposed close to the transmission circuit; and a coupler configured to couple between transmission lines of the transmission circuit and the reception circuit by electromagnetic field coupling, wherein wireless communication is performed between the transmission circuit and the reception circuit, and wherein the reception circuit includes
a first buffer configured to output a signal indicative of a first logic state or a second logic state, a signal in which the first logic state and the second logic state are defined being input to the first buffer,
a second buffer configured to output a signal indicative of any one of the first logic state, the second logic state, and a third logic state, the signal output from the first buffer being input to the second buffer, and
a monitoring circuit configured to monitor a logic state indicated by the signal output from the first buffer and cause the second buffer, in a case where the logic state does not change during a first period, to output the signal indicative of the third logic state. 10. The communication system according to claim 9,
wherein, when a change in a logic state indicated by the signal output from the first buffer is detected in a case where the second buffer outputs the signal indicating the third logic state, the monitoring circuit causes the second buffer to output the signal indicative of the logic state indicated by the signal output from the first buffer. 11. The communication system according to claim 9, the communication system further comprising:
a delay circuit being provided between the first buffer and the second buffer and configured to delay the signal output from the first buffer for the first period. 12. The communication system according to claim 9,
wherein, when a change in a logic state indicated by the signal output from the first buffer is detected in a case where the second buffer outputs the signal indicating the third logic state, the monitoring circuit causes the second buffer to output the signal indicative of the logic state indicated by the signal output from the first buffer following an elapse of the first period after the change is detected. 13. A communication method by using a communication circuit, the communication method comprising:
outputting, by a first buffer, a signal indicative of a first logic state or a second logic state, a signal in which the first logic state and the second logic state are defined being input to the first buffer; outputting, by a second buffer, a signal indicative of any one of the first logic state, the second logic state, and a third logic state, the signal output from the first buffer being input to the second buffer, and causing, by a monitoring circuit configured to monitor a logic state indicated by the signal output from the first buffer, the second buffer to output the signal indicative of the third logic state in a case where the logic state does not change during a first period. 14. The communication method according to claim 13,
wherein, when a change in a logic state indicated by the signal output from the first buffer is detected in a case where the second buffer outputs the signal indicating the third logic state, the monitoring circuit causes the second buffer to output the signal indicative of the logic state indicated by the signal output from the first buffer to be output to the second buffer. 15. The communication method according to claim 13,
wherein a delay circuit provided between the first buffer and the second buffer causes the signal output from the first buffer to delay for the first period. 16. The communication method according to claim 15,
wherein, when a change in a logic state indicated by the signal output from the first buffer is detected in a case where the second buffer outputs the signal indicating the third logic state, the monitoring circuit causes the second buffer to output the signal of the logic state indicated by the signal output from the first buffer following an elapse of the first period after the change is detected. | 2,400 |
349,329 | 16,806,886 | 2,446 | Particular embodiments include a mission payload mounting apparatus. The mission payload apparatus includes a pressurized door plug assembly on a side of an aircraft fuselage and a strut having a first end and a second end. The strut extends from an interior of the aircraft fuselage through the pressurized door plug assembly to an exterior of the aircraft fuselage. The first end of the strut is connected to the interior of the aircraft fuselage. One or more payloads are attached to the strut. | 1. A mission payload mounting apparatus comprising:
a pressurized door plug assembly on a side of an aircraft fuselage; and a strut having a first end and a second end, wherein:
the strut extends from an interior of the aircraft fuselage through the pressurized door plug assembly to an exterior of the aircraft fuselage;
the first end of the strut is coupled to an adaptive mounting system (AMS) plate adapted to attach to one or more air deployment system (ADS) rails of the aircraft fuselage, the one or more ADS rails being fixed parallel to a longitudinal axis of the aircraft fuselage; and
one or more payloads are attached to the strut. 2. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the strut is operable to, in flight:
extend the one or more payloads from the interior of the aircraft fuselage to the exterior of the aircraft fuselage; and retract the one or more payloads from the exterior of the aircraft fuselage to the interior of the aircraft fuselage. 3. The apparatus of Claim h wherein the strut provides an internal wiring harness and cable conduit from the interior of the aircraft fuselage to the one or more payloads. 4. The apparatus of claim 3, wherein the strut provides payload connectivity to one or more on-board systems of the aircraft fuselage, wherein the on-board systems comprise one or more of:
an on-board workstation; an aircraft positional data system; a communications system; or a data processing system. 5. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the strut is a non-actuated fixed-position strut and fairing apparatus. 6. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the strut is capable of being rotationally actuated about an axis. 7. The apparatus of claim 6, wherein the axis is exterior to the aircraft fuselage. 8. The apparatus of claim 6, wherein the one or more payloads are attached to the strut between the axis and the second end. 9. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the one or more payloads are attached the second end of the strut. 10. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the strut is capable of being articulated to a position where the second end of the strut is below a lower periphery of the aircraft fuselage. 11. (canceled) . 12. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the AMS plate is adapted to attach to the one or more ADS rails via one or more restraint or bolt devices. 13. The apparatus of claim 1, further comprising one or more removable load transfer braces (LTBs) which interface to the AMS plate and extend inboard from the AMS plate to interface with a floor of the aircraft fuselage. 14. The apparatus of claim 13, wherein:
the one or more LTBs are hinged to the AMS plate via one or more flanges; and the one or more LTBs can be rotated to a vertical position via the one or more flanges upon disconnection of the interface with the floor of the aircraft fuselage. 15. The apparatus of claim 1, further comprising a shoulder armature assembly coupled to the first end of the strut, wherein the strut is coupled to the AMS plate via the shoulder armature assembly. 16. The apparatus of claim 15, further comprising a wrist armature assembly, wherein the wrist armature assembly is coupled to the second end of the strut. 17. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the one or more payloads comprise one or more of:
an ordinance rack; an electro optical, radar, or radio-frequency sensor; a surveillance and targeting sensor turret; a communications pod; or an infra-red detection set. 18. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the pressurized door plug assembly comprises:
a single piece door plug; or a combined door plug upper panel and door plug lower panel. 19. A method comprising:
coupling a first end of a strut to an adaptive mounting system (AMS) plate adapted to attach to one or more air deployment system (ADS) rails of an aircraft fuselage, the one or more ADS rails being fixed parallel to a longitudinal axis of the aircraft fuselage; and installing a pressurized door plug assembly on a side of the aircraft fuselage wherein:
the strut extends from an interior of the aircraft fuselage to an exterior of the aircraft fuselage through the pressurized door plug assembly; and
one or more payloads are attached to the strut. 20. The method of claim 19, further comprising:
actuating the strut in flight to extend the one or more payloads from the interior of the aircraft fuselage to the exterior of the aircraft fuselage. | Particular embodiments include a mission payload mounting apparatus. The mission payload apparatus includes a pressurized door plug assembly on a side of an aircraft fuselage and a strut having a first end and a second end. The strut extends from an interior of the aircraft fuselage through the pressurized door plug assembly to an exterior of the aircraft fuselage. The first end of the strut is connected to the interior of the aircraft fuselage. One or more payloads are attached to the strut.1. A mission payload mounting apparatus comprising:
a pressurized door plug assembly on a side of an aircraft fuselage; and a strut having a first end and a second end, wherein:
the strut extends from an interior of the aircraft fuselage through the pressurized door plug assembly to an exterior of the aircraft fuselage;
the first end of the strut is coupled to an adaptive mounting system (AMS) plate adapted to attach to one or more air deployment system (ADS) rails of the aircraft fuselage, the one or more ADS rails being fixed parallel to a longitudinal axis of the aircraft fuselage; and
one or more payloads are attached to the strut. 2. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the strut is operable to, in flight:
extend the one or more payloads from the interior of the aircraft fuselage to the exterior of the aircraft fuselage; and retract the one or more payloads from the exterior of the aircraft fuselage to the interior of the aircraft fuselage. 3. The apparatus of Claim h wherein the strut provides an internal wiring harness and cable conduit from the interior of the aircraft fuselage to the one or more payloads. 4. The apparatus of claim 3, wherein the strut provides payload connectivity to one or more on-board systems of the aircraft fuselage, wherein the on-board systems comprise one or more of:
an on-board workstation; an aircraft positional data system; a communications system; or a data processing system. 5. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the strut is a non-actuated fixed-position strut and fairing apparatus. 6. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the strut is capable of being rotationally actuated about an axis. 7. The apparatus of claim 6, wherein the axis is exterior to the aircraft fuselage. 8. The apparatus of claim 6, wherein the one or more payloads are attached to the strut between the axis and the second end. 9. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the one or more payloads are attached the second end of the strut. 10. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the strut is capable of being articulated to a position where the second end of the strut is below a lower periphery of the aircraft fuselage. 11. (canceled) . 12. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the AMS plate is adapted to attach to the one or more ADS rails via one or more restraint or bolt devices. 13. The apparatus of claim 1, further comprising one or more removable load transfer braces (LTBs) which interface to the AMS plate and extend inboard from the AMS plate to interface with a floor of the aircraft fuselage. 14. The apparatus of claim 13, wherein:
the one or more LTBs are hinged to the AMS plate via one or more flanges; and the one or more LTBs can be rotated to a vertical position via the one or more flanges upon disconnection of the interface with the floor of the aircraft fuselage. 15. The apparatus of claim 1, further comprising a shoulder armature assembly coupled to the first end of the strut, wherein the strut is coupled to the AMS plate via the shoulder armature assembly. 16. The apparatus of claim 15, further comprising a wrist armature assembly, wherein the wrist armature assembly is coupled to the second end of the strut. 17. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the one or more payloads comprise one or more of:
an ordinance rack; an electro optical, radar, or radio-frequency sensor; a surveillance and targeting sensor turret; a communications pod; or an infra-red detection set. 18. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the pressurized door plug assembly comprises:
a single piece door plug; or a combined door plug upper panel and door plug lower panel. 19. A method comprising:
coupling a first end of a strut to an adaptive mounting system (AMS) plate adapted to attach to one or more air deployment system (ADS) rails of an aircraft fuselage, the one or more ADS rails being fixed parallel to a longitudinal axis of the aircraft fuselage; and installing a pressurized door plug assembly on a side of the aircraft fuselage wherein:
the strut extends from an interior of the aircraft fuselage to an exterior of the aircraft fuselage through the pressurized door plug assembly; and
one or more payloads are attached to the strut. 20. The method of claim 19, further comprising:
actuating the strut in flight to extend the one or more payloads from the interior of the aircraft fuselage to the exterior of the aircraft fuselage. | 2,400 |
349,330 | 16,806,867 | 2,446 | In general, intelligent fuel dispensers are provided. In at least some implementations, an intelligent fuel dispenser can determine customer identities and/or other characteristics and provide customized fueling sessions based on the determined customer identities and/or other characteristics. In at least some implementations, the fuel dispenser includes a touchless interface allowing customers to complete fueling sessions with minimal physical contact with the fuel dispenser. | 1. A fuel dispenser, comprising:
a housing having fuel dispensing components disposed therein and an electronics module disposed at least partially therein, the electronics module including: an image sensor; and an image processor operatively coupled to the image sensor that receives data characterizing an image from the image sensor that includes a visual representation of a vehicle, the image processor being configured to determine identity information of a customer using the image, and the image processor being configured to cause the fuel dispenser to perform an action using the identity information. 2. The fuel dispenser of claim 1, wherein the fuel dispenser determines a make and model of the vehicle using the at least one vehicle feature. 3. The fuel dispenser of claim 1, wherein the action includes, in response to determining the identity information, automatically retrieving from a memory a customer profile that includes fueling preferences of the customer, and automatically causing a pre-fueling selection screen to be shown on the display populated with the fueling preferences of the customer. 4. The fuel dispenser of claim 1, wherein the action includes causing a display of the vehicle to show information related to fueling of the vehicle during a fueling session. 5. A fuel dispenser, comprising:
a housing having fuel dispensing components disposed therein and an electronics module disposed at least partially therein; an image sensor; and a processor in the electronics module, operatively coupled to the image sensor, and configured to:
receive data characterizing an image from the image sensor,
determine, using the image, whether a safety condition associated with a customer in proximity of the housing is satisfied, and
in response to determining that the safety condition is not satisfied, cause an alarm. 6. The fuel dispenser of claim 5, wherein the processor is configured to receive data characterizing another image from the image sensor and to determine, using the other image, whether the customer is in proximity of the housing. 7. The fuel dispenser of claim 6, wherein the other image includes a visual representation of the customer, the processor identifies a facial region in the other image, and the processor extracts at least one facial feature using the other image. 8. The fuel dispenser of claim 6, wherein the other image includes a visual representation of the customer, and the processor determines one or more non-facial body features, and the processor determines, using the non-facial body feature, a characteristic of the customer including at least one of age, height, gender, and disability status. 9. The fuel dispenser of claim 8, further comprising a display, wherein the processor dynamically reconfigures at least one graphical user interface (GUI) element in the display, the GUI element having at least one of a reconfigured location and a reconfigured size determined using the determined characteristic of the customer. 10. The fuel dispenser of claim 6, wherein the other image includes at least one of a facial feature of the customer, a vehicle feature, a license plate number, and a non-facial body feature of the customer. 11. The fuel dispenser of claim 6, wherein the processor determines identity information of the customer based on the other image and provides the identity information to a remote processor for determining the customer's identity that includes a name or unique identifier. 12. The fuel dispenser of claim 5, wherein the safety condition includes whether the customer is smoking in proximity to the fuel dispenser, and the safety condition not being satisfied includes the customer smoking in proximity to the fuel dispenser. 13. The fuel dispenser of claim 5, wherein the safety condition includes whether the customer is electrically grounded, and the safety condition not being satisfied includes the customer not being electrically grounded; and
wherein the processor determines whether the customer is electrically grounded before the customer dispenses fuel from the housing. 14. The fuel dispenser of claim 5, wherein the safety condition includes whether an engine of a vehicle of the customer is operating, and the safety condition not being satisfied includes the engine operating. | In general, intelligent fuel dispensers are provided. In at least some implementations, an intelligent fuel dispenser can determine customer identities and/or other characteristics and provide customized fueling sessions based on the determined customer identities and/or other characteristics. In at least some implementations, the fuel dispenser includes a touchless interface allowing customers to complete fueling sessions with minimal physical contact with the fuel dispenser.1. A fuel dispenser, comprising:
a housing having fuel dispensing components disposed therein and an electronics module disposed at least partially therein, the electronics module including: an image sensor; and an image processor operatively coupled to the image sensor that receives data characterizing an image from the image sensor that includes a visual representation of a vehicle, the image processor being configured to determine identity information of a customer using the image, and the image processor being configured to cause the fuel dispenser to perform an action using the identity information. 2. The fuel dispenser of claim 1, wherein the fuel dispenser determines a make and model of the vehicle using the at least one vehicle feature. 3. The fuel dispenser of claim 1, wherein the action includes, in response to determining the identity information, automatically retrieving from a memory a customer profile that includes fueling preferences of the customer, and automatically causing a pre-fueling selection screen to be shown on the display populated with the fueling preferences of the customer. 4. The fuel dispenser of claim 1, wherein the action includes causing a display of the vehicle to show information related to fueling of the vehicle during a fueling session. 5. A fuel dispenser, comprising:
a housing having fuel dispensing components disposed therein and an electronics module disposed at least partially therein; an image sensor; and a processor in the electronics module, operatively coupled to the image sensor, and configured to:
receive data characterizing an image from the image sensor,
determine, using the image, whether a safety condition associated with a customer in proximity of the housing is satisfied, and
in response to determining that the safety condition is not satisfied, cause an alarm. 6. The fuel dispenser of claim 5, wherein the processor is configured to receive data characterizing another image from the image sensor and to determine, using the other image, whether the customer is in proximity of the housing. 7. The fuel dispenser of claim 6, wherein the other image includes a visual representation of the customer, the processor identifies a facial region in the other image, and the processor extracts at least one facial feature using the other image. 8. The fuel dispenser of claim 6, wherein the other image includes a visual representation of the customer, and the processor determines one or more non-facial body features, and the processor determines, using the non-facial body feature, a characteristic of the customer including at least one of age, height, gender, and disability status. 9. The fuel dispenser of claim 8, further comprising a display, wherein the processor dynamically reconfigures at least one graphical user interface (GUI) element in the display, the GUI element having at least one of a reconfigured location and a reconfigured size determined using the determined characteristic of the customer. 10. The fuel dispenser of claim 6, wherein the other image includes at least one of a facial feature of the customer, a vehicle feature, a license plate number, and a non-facial body feature of the customer. 11. The fuel dispenser of claim 6, wherein the processor determines identity information of the customer based on the other image and provides the identity information to a remote processor for determining the customer's identity that includes a name or unique identifier. 12. The fuel dispenser of claim 5, wherein the safety condition includes whether the customer is smoking in proximity to the fuel dispenser, and the safety condition not being satisfied includes the customer smoking in proximity to the fuel dispenser. 13. The fuel dispenser of claim 5, wherein the safety condition includes whether the customer is electrically grounded, and the safety condition not being satisfied includes the customer not being electrically grounded; and
wherein the processor determines whether the customer is electrically grounded before the customer dispenses fuel from the housing. 14. The fuel dispenser of claim 5, wherein the safety condition includes whether an engine of a vehicle of the customer is operating, and the safety condition not being satisfied includes the engine operating. | 2,400 |
349,331 | 16,806,869 | 2,446 | In general, intelligent fuel dispensers are provided. In at least some implementations, an intelligent fuel dispenser can determine customer identities and/or other characteristics and provide customized fueling sessions based on the determined customer identities and/or other characteristics. In at least some implementations, the fuel dispenser includes a touchless interface allowing customers to complete fueling sessions with minimal physical contact with the fuel dispenser. | 1. A fuel dispenser, comprising:
a housing having fuel dispensing components disposed therein and an electronics module disposed at least partially therein, the electronics module including: an image sensor; and an image processor operatively coupled to the image sensor that receives data characterizing an image from the image sensor that includes a visual representation of a vehicle, the image processor being configured to determine identity information of a customer using the image, and the image processor being configured to cause the fuel dispenser to perform an action using the identity information. 2. The fuel dispenser of claim 1, wherein the fuel dispenser determines a make and model of the vehicle using the at least one vehicle feature. 3. The fuel dispenser of claim 1, wherein the action includes, in response to determining the identity information, automatically retrieving from a memory a customer profile that includes fueling preferences of the customer, and automatically causing a pre-fueling selection screen to be shown on the display populated with the fueling preferences of the customer. 4. The fuel dispenser of claim 1, wherein the action includes causing a display of the vehicle to show information related to fueling of the vehicle during a fueling session. 5. A fuel dispenser, comprising:
a housing having fuel dispensing components disposed therein and an electronics module disposed at least partially therein; an image sensor; and a processor in the electronics module, operatively coupled to the image sensor, and configured to:
receive data characterizing an image from the image sensor,
determine, using the image, whether a safety condition associated with a customer in proximity of the housing is satisfied, and
in response to determining that the safety condition is not satisfied, cause an alarm. 6. The fuel dispenser of claim 5, wherein the processor is configured to receive data characterizing another image from the image sensor and to determine, using the other image, whether the customer is in proximity of the housing. 7. The fuel dispenser of claim 6, wherein the other image includes a visual representation of the customer, the processor identifies a facial region in the other image, and the processor extracts at least one facial feature using the other image. 8. The fuel dispenser of claim 6, wherein the other image includes a visual representation of the customer, and the processor determines one or more non-facial body features, and the processor determines, using the non-facial body feature, a characteristic of the customer including at least one of age, height, gender, and disability status. 9. The fuel dispenser of claim 8, further comprising a display, wherein the processor dynamically reconfigures at least one graphical user interface (GUI) element in the display, the GUI element having at least one of a reconfigured location and a reconfigured size determined using the determined characteristic of the customer. 10. The fuel dispenser of claim 6, wherein the other image includes at least one of a facial feature of the customer, a vehicle feature, a license plate number, and a non-facial body feature of the customer. 11. The fuel dispenser of claim 6, wherein the processor determines identity information of the customer based on the other image and provides the identity information to a remote processor for determining the customer's identity that includes a name or unique identifier. 12. The fuel dispenser of claim 5, wherein the safety condition includes whether the customer is smoking in proximity to the fuel dispenser, and the safety condition not being satisfied includes the customer smoking in proximity to the fuel dispenser. 13. The fuel dispenser of claim 5, wherein the safety condition includes whether the customer is electrically grounded, and the safety condition not being satisfied includes the customer not being electrically grounded; and
wherein the processor determines whether the customer is electrically grounded before the customer dispenses fuel from the housing. 14. The fuel dispenser of claim 5, wherein the safety condition includes whether an engine of a vehicle of the customer is operating, and the safety condition not being satisfied includes the engine operating. | In general, intelligent fuel dispensers are provided. In at least some implementations, an intelligent fuel dispenser can determine customer identities and/or other characteristics and provide customized fueling sessions based on the determined customer identities and/or other characteristics. In at least some implementations, the fuel dispenser includes a touchless interface allowing customers to complete fueling sessions with minimal physical contact with the fuel dispenser.1. A fuel dispenser, comprising:
a housing having fuel dispensing components disposed therein and an electronics module disposed at least partially therein, the electronics module including: an image sensor; and an image processor operatively coupled to the image sensor that receives data characterizing an image from the image sensor that includes a visual representation of a vehicle, the image processor being configured to determine identity information of a customer using the image, and the image processor being configured to cause the fuel dispenser to perform an action using the identity information. 2. The fuel dispenser of claim 1, wherein the fuel dispenser determines a make and model of the vehicle using the at least one vehicle feature. 3. The fuel dispenser of claim 1, wherein the action includes, in response to determining the identity information, automatically retrieving from a memory a customer profile that includes fueling preferences of the customer, and automatically causing a pre-fueling selection screen to be shown on the display populated with the fueling preferences of the customer. 4. The fuel dispenser of claim 1, wherein the action includes causing a display of the vehicle to show information related to fueling of the vehicle during a fueling session. 5. A fuel dispenser, comprising:
a housing having fuel dispensing components disposed therein and an electronics module disposed at least partially therein; an image sensor; and a processor in the electronics module, operatively coupled to the image sensor, and configured to:
receive data characterizing an image from the image sensor,
determine, using the image, whether a safety condition associated with a customer in proximity of the housing is satisfied, and
in response to determining that the safety condition is not satisfied, cause an alarm. 6. The fuel dispenser of claim 5, wherein the processor is configured to receive data characterizing another image from the image sensor and to determine, using the other image, whether the customer is in proximity of the housing. 7. The fuel dispenser of claim 6, wherein the other image includes a visual representation of the customer, the processor identifies a facial region in the other image, and the processor extracts at least one facial feature using the other image. 8. The fuel dispenser of claim 6, wherein the other image includes a visual representation of the customer, and the processor determines one or more non-facial body features, and the processor determines, using the non-facial body feature, a characteristic of the customer including at least one of age, height, gender, and disability status. 9. The fuel dispenser of claim 8, further comprising a display, wherein the processor dynamically reconfigures at least one graphical user interface (GUI) element in the display, the GUI element having at least one of a reconfigured location and a reconfigured size determined using the determined characteristic of the customer. 10. The fuel dispenser of claim 6, wherein the other image includes at least one of a facial feature of the customer, a vehicle feature, a license plate number, and a non-facial body feature of the customer. 11. The fuel dispenser of claim 6, wherein the processor determines identity information of the customer based on the other image and provides the identity information to a remote processor for determining the customer's identity that includes a name or unique identifier. 12. The fuel dispenser of claim 5, wherein the safety condition includes whether the customer is smoking in proximity to the fuel dispenser, and the safety condition not being satisfied includes the customer smoking in proximity to the fuel dispenser. 13. The fuel dispenser of claim 5, wherein the safety condition includes whether the customer is electrically grounded, and the safety condition not being satisfied includes the customer not being electrically grounded; and
wherein the processor determines whether the customer is electrically grounded before the customer dispenses fuel from the housing. 14. The fuel dispenser of claim 5, wherein the safety condition includes whether an engine of a vehicle of the customer is operating, and the safety condition not being satisfied includes the engine operating. | 2,400 |
349,332 | 16,806,872 | 2,446 | The present invention relates to methods of modulating an immune response mediated by a PD-1 signaling pathway and of treating a cancer or an infectious disease. A subject is administered a compound(s) or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt or pharmaceutically acceptable composition thereof of formula (I) | 1. A method of treating cancer in a subject in need thereof, comprising administering to the subject a compound of formula (I) or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt or a pharmaceutically acceptable composition thereof: 2. The method according to claim 1, wherein Q is O. 3. The method according to claim 1, wherein R6 is H. 4. The method according to claim 1, wherein R6 is —C(O)CH3, —C(O)CH2CH3, —C(O)(CH2)2CH3, —C(O)(CH2)3CH3, —C(O)(CH2)4CH3, or —C(O)(CH2)5CH3. 5. The method according to claim 1, wherein R2 is —CO-Aaa. 6. The method according to claim 1, wherein the compound of formula (I) is a compound of formula (IA): 7. The method according to claim 1, wherein Aaa is the amino acid residue Thr or Ser; wherein the C-terminus is the free terminus. 8. The method according to claim 1, wherein the compound of formula (I) is a compound of formula (IB): 9. The method according to claim 1, wherein R1 represents the side chain of an amino acid residue Ser or Thr. 10. The method according to claim 1, wherein R1 is substituted with C1-5 alkyl. 11. The method according to claim 1, wherein R3 represents the side chain of the amino acid residue Asn or Glu. 12. The method according to claim 1, wherein:
R1 represents the side chain of an amino acid residue Ser or Thr; R2 is —CO-Aaa; Aaa is the amino acid residue Thr or Ser; wherein the C-terminus is a free terminus; and R3 represents the side chain of the amino acid residue Asn or Glu. 13. The method according to claim 1, wherein R1 represents the side chain of the amino acid residue Ser. 14. The method according to claim 1, wherein R1 represents the side chain of the amino acid residue Thr. 15. The method according to claim 1, wherein Aaa is Ser. 16. The method according to claim 1, wherein Aaa is Thr. 17. The method according to claim 1, wherein R3 represents the side chain of the amino acid residue Asn. 18. The method according to claim 1, wherein R3 represents the side chain of the amino acid residue Asp. 19. The method according to claim 1, wherein R3 represents the side chain of the amino acid residue Gln. 20. The method according to claim 1, wherein R3 represents the side chain of the amino acid residue Glu. 21. The method according to claim 1, wherein R2 is H. 22. The method according to claim 1, wherein the compound has the following structure: 23. The method according to claim 1, wherein the compound has the following structure: 24. The method according to claim 1, wherein the compound has the following structure: 25. The compound according to claim 1, wherein the compound has the following structure: 26. The method according to claim 1, wherein the compound has the following structure: 27. The method according to claim 1, wherein the compound has the following structure: 28. The method according to claim 1, wherein the compound has the following structure: 29. The method according to claim 1, wherein the compound has the following structure: 30. The method according to claim 1, wherein the compound has the following structure: 31. The method according to claim 1, wherein the compound has the following structure: 32. The method according to claim 1, wherein the compound has the following structure: 33. The method according to claim 1, wherein the compound has the following structure: 34. The method according to claim 1, wherein the compound has the following structure: 35. The method according to claim 1, wherein the compound has the following structure: 36. The method according to claim 1, wherein the compound has the following structure: 37. The method according to claim 1, wherein the compound has the following structure: 38. The method according to claim 1, wherein the compound has the following structure: 39. The method according to claim 1, wherein the compound has the following structure: 40. The method according to claim 1, wherein the compound has the following structure: 41. The method according to claim 1, wherein the compound has the following structure: 42. The method according to claim 1, wherein the compound has the following structure: 43. The method according to claim 1, wherein the compound has the following structure: 44. The method according to claim 1, wherein the compound has the following structure: 45. The method according to claim 1, wherein the compound has the following structure: 46. The method according to claim 15, wherein the compound has the following structure: 47. The method according to claim 1, wherein the cancer is selected from the group consisting of breast cancer, colon cancer, lung cancer, melanoma, prostate cancer, and renal cancer. 48. The method according to claim 47, wherein the cancer is bone cancer, cancer of the head or neck, pancreatic cancer, skin cancer, cutaneous or intraocular malignant melanoma, carcinoma of the endometrium, carcinoma of the cervix, carcinoma of the vagina, carcinoma of the vulva, Hodgkin's Disease, non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, cancer of the esophagus, cancer of the small intestine, cancer of the endocrine system, cancer of the thyroid gland, cancer of the parathyroid gland, cancer of the adrenal gland, sarcoma of soft tissue, cancer of the urethra, cancer of the penis, chronic or acute leukemias including acute myeloid leukemia, chronic myeloid leukemia, acute lymphoblastic leukemia, chronic lymphocytic leukemia, solid tumors of childhood, lymphocytic lymphoma, cancer of the bladder, cancer of the kidney or ureter, carcinoma of the renal pelvis, neoplasm of the central nervous system (CNS), primary CNS lymphoma, tumor angiogenesis, spinal axis tumor, brain stem glioma, pituitary adenoma, Kaposi's sarcoma, epidermoid cancer, squamous cell cancer, T-cell lymphoma, environmentally induced cancers including those induced by asbestos, and combinations of said cancers. | The present invention relates to methods of modulating an immune response mediated by a PD-1 signaling pathway and of treating a cancer or an infectious disease. A subject is administered a compound(s) or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt or pharmaceutically acceptable composition thereof of formula (I)1. A method of treating cancer in a subject in need thereof, comprising administering to the subject a compound of formula (I) or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt or a pharmaceutically acceptable composition thereof: 2. The method according to claim 1, wherein Q is O. 3. The method according to claim 1, wherein R6 is H. 4. The method according to claim 1, wherein R6 is —C(O)CH3, —C(O)CH2CH3, —C(O)(CH2)2CH3, —C(O)(CH2)3CH3, —C(O)(CH2)4CH3, or —C(O)(CH2)5CH3. 5. The method according to claim 1, wherein R2 is —CO-Aaa. 6. The method according to claim 1, wherein the compound of formula (I) is a compound of formula (IA): 7. The method according to claim 1, wherein Aaa is the amino acid residue Thr or Ser; wherein the C-terminus is the free terminus. 8. The method according to claim 1, wherein the compound of formula (I) is a compound of formula (IB): 9. The method according to claim 1, wherein R1 represents the side chain of an amino acid residue Ser or Thr. 10. The method according to claim 1, wherein R1 is substituted with C1-5 alkyl. 11. The method according to claim 1, wherein R3 represents the side chain of the amino acid residue Asn or Glu. 12. The method according to claim 1, wherein:
R1 represents the side chain of an amino acid residue Ser or Thr; R2 is —CO-Aaa; Aaa is the amino acid residue Thr or Ser; wherein the C-terminus is a free terminus; and R3 represents the side chain of the amino acid residue Asn or Glu. 13. The method according to claim 1, wherein R1 represents the side chain of the amino acid residue Ser. 14. The method according to claim 1, wherein R1 represents the side chain of the amino acid residue Thr. 15. The method according to claim 1, wherein Aaa is Ser. 16. The method according to claim 1, wherein Aaa is Thr. 17. The method according to claim 1, wherein R3 represents the side chain of the amino acid residue Asn. 18. The method according to claim 1, wherein R3 represents the side chain of the amino acid residue Asp. 19. The method according to claim 1, wherein R3 represents the side chain of the amino acid residue Gln. 20. The method according to claim 1, wherein R3 represents the side chain of the amino acid residue Glu. 21. The method according to claim 1, wherein R2 is H. 22. The method according to claim 1, wherein the compound has the following structure: 23. The method according to claim 1, wherein the compound has the following structure: 24. The method according to claim 1, wherein the compound has the following structure: 25. The compound according to claim 1, wherein the compound has the following structure: 26. The method according to claim 1, wherein the compound has the following structure: 27. The method according to claim 1, wherein the compound has the following structure: 28. The method according to claim 1, wherein the compound has the following structure: 29. The method according to claim 1, wherein the compound has the following structure: 30. The method according to claim 1, wherein the compound has the following structure: 31. The method according to claim 1, wherein the compound has the following structure: 32. The method according to claim 1, wherein the compound has the following structure: 33. The method according to claim 1, wherein the compound has the following structure: 34. The method according to claim 1, wherein the compound has the following structure: 35. The method according to claim 1, wherein the compound has the following structure: 36. The method according to claim 1, wherein the compound has the following structure: 37. The method according to claim 1, wherein the compound has the following structure: 38. The method according to claim 1, wherein the compound has the following structure: 39. The method according to claim 1, wherein the compound has the following structure: 40. The method according to claim 1, wherein the compound has the following structure: 41. The method according to claim 1, wherein the compound has the following structure: 42. The method according to claim 1, wherein the compound has the following structure: 43. The method according to claim 1, wherein the compound has the following structure: 44. The method according to claim 1, wherein the compound has the following structure: 45. The method according to claim 1, wherein the compound has the following structure: 46. The method according to claim 15, wherein the compound has the following structure: 47. The method according to claim 1, wherein the cancer is selected from the group consisting of breast cancer, colon cancer, lung cancer, melanoma, prostate cancer, and renal cancer. 48. The method according to claim 47, wherein the cancer is bone cancer, cancer of the head or neck, pancreatic cancer, skin cancer, cutaneous or intraocular malignant melanoma, carcinoma of the endometrium, carcinoma of the cervix, carcinoma of the vagina, carcinoma of the vulva, Hodgkin's Disease, non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, cancer of the esophagus, cancer of the small intestine, cancer of the endocrine system, cancer of the thyroid gland, cancer of the parathyroid gland, cancer of the adrenal gland, sarcoma of soft tissue, cancer of the urethra, cancer of the penis, chronic or acute leukemias including acute myeloid leukemia, chronic myeloid leukemia, acute lymphoblastic leukemia, chronic lymphocytic leukemia, solid tumors of childhood, lymphocytic lymphoma, cancer of the bladder, cancer of the kidney or ureter, carcinoma of the renal pelvis, neoplasm of the central nervous system (CNS), primary CNS lymphoma, tumor angiogenesis, spinal axis tumor, brain stem glioma, pituitary adenoma, Kaposi's sarcoma, epidermoid cancer, squamous cell cancer, T-cell lymphoma, environmentally induced cancers including those induced by asbestos, and combinations of said cancers. | 2,400 |
349,333 | 16,806,897 | 2,446 | The present invention relates to methods of modulating an immune response mediated by a PD-1 signaling pathway and of treating a cancer or an infectious disease. A subject is administered a compound(s) or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt or pharmaceutically acceptable composition thereof of formula (I) | 1. A method of treating cancer in a subject in need thereof, comprising administering to the subject a compound of formula (I) or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt or a pharmaceutically acceptable composition thereof: 2. The method according to claim 1, wherein Q is O. 3. The method according to claim 1, wherein R6 is H. 4. The method according to claim 1, wherein R6 is —C(O)CH3, —C(O)CH2CH3, —C(O)(CH2)2CH3, —C(O)(CH2)3CH3, —C(O)(CH2)4CH3, or —C(O)(CH2)5CH3. 5. The method according to claim 1, wherein R2 is —CO-Aaa. 6. The method according to claim 1, wherein the compound of formula (I) is a compound of formula (IA): 7. The method according to claim 1, wherein Aaa is the amino acid residue Thr or Ser; wherein the C-terminus is the free terminus. 8. The method according to claim 1, wherein the compound of formula (I) is a compound of formula (IB): 9. The method according to claim 1, wherein R1 represents the side chain of an amino acid residue Ser or Thr. 10. The method according to claim 1, wherein R1 is substituted with C1-5 alkyl. 11. The method according to claim 1, wherein R3 represents the side chain of the amino acid residue Asn or Glu. 12. The method according to claim 1, wherein:
R1 represents the side chain of an amino acid residue Ser or Thr; R2 is —CO-Aaa; Aaa is the amino acid residue Thr or Ser; wherein the C-terminus is a free terminus; and R3 represents the side chain of the amino acid residue Asn or Glu. 13. The method according to claim 1, wherein R1 represents the side chain of the amino acid residue Ser. 14. The method according to claim 1, wherein R1 represents the side chain of the amino acid residue Thr. 15. The method according to claim 1, wherein Aaa is Ser. 16. The method according to claim 1, wherein Aaa is Thr. 17. The method according to claim 1, wherein R3 represents the side chain of the amino acid residue Asn. 18. The method according to claim 1, wherein R3 represents the side chain of the amino acid residue Asp. 19. The method according to claim 1, wherein R3 represents the side chain of the amino acid residue Gln. 20. The method according to claim 1, wherein R3 represents the side chain of the amino acid residue Glu. 21. The method according to claim 1, wherein R2 is H. 22. The method according to claim 1, wherein the compound has the following structure: 23. The method according to claim 1, wherein the compound has the following structure: 24. The method according to claim 1, wherein the compound has the following structure: 25. The compound according to claim 1, wherein the compound has the following structure: 26. The method according to claim 1, wherein the compound has the following structure: 27. The method according to claim 1, wherein the compound has the following structure: 28. The method according to claim 1, wherein the compound has the following structure: 29. The method according to claim 1, wherein the compound has the following structure: 30. The method according to claim 1, wherein the compound has the following structure: 31. The method according to claim 1, wherein the compound has the following structure: 32. The method according to claim 1, wherein the compound has the following structure: 33. The method according to claim 1, wherein the compound has the following structure: 34. The method according to claim 1, wherein the compound has the following structure: 35. The method according to claim 1, wherein the compound has the following structure: 36. The method according to claim 1, wherein the compound has the following structure: 37. The method according to claim 1, wherein the compound has the following structure: 38. The method according to claim 1, wherein the compound has the following structure: 39. The method according to claim 1, wherein the compound has the following structure: 40. The method according to claim 1, wherein the compound has the following structure: 41. The method according to claim 1, wherein the compound has the following structure: 42. The method according to claim 1, wherein the compound has the following structure: 43. The method according to claim 1, wherein the compound has the following structure: 44. The method according to claim 1, wherein the compound has the following structure: 45. The method according to claim 1, wherein the compound has the following structure: 46. The method according to claim 15, wherein the compound has the following structure: 47. The method according to claim 1, wherein the cancer is selected from the group consisting of breast cancer, colon cancer, lung cancer, melanoma, prostate cancer, and renal cancer. 48. The method according to claim 47, wherein the cancer is bone cancer, cancer of the head or neck, pancreatic cancer, skin cancer, cutaneous or intraocular malignant melanoma, carcinoma of the endometrium, carcinoma of the cervix, carcinoma of the vagina, carcinoma of the vulva, Hodgkin's Disease, non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, cancer of the esophagus, cancer of the small intestine, cancer of the endocrine system, cancer of the thyroid gland, cancer of the parathyroid gland, cancer of the adrenal gland, sarcoma of soft tissue, cancer of the urethra, cancer of the penis, chronic or acute leukemias including acute myeloid leukemia, chronic myeloid leukemia, acute lymphoblastic leukemia, chronic lymphocytic leukemia, solid tumors of childhood, lymphocytic lymphoma, cancer of the bladder, cancer of the kidney or ureter, carcinoma of the renal pelvis, neoplasm of the central nervous system (CNS), primary CNS lymphoma, tumor angiogenesis, spinal axis tumor, brain stem glioma, pituitary adenoma, Kaposi's sarcoma, epidermoid cancer, squamous cell cancer, T-cell lymphoma, environmentally induced cancers including those induced by asbestos, and combinations of said cancers. | The present invention relates to methods of modulating an immune response mediated by a PD-1 signaling pathway and of treating a cancer or an infectious disease. A subject is administered a compound(s) or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt or pharmaceutically acceptable composition thereof of formula (I)1. A method of treating cancer in a subject in need thereof, comprising administering to the subject a compound of formula (I) or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt or a pharmaceutically acceptable composition thereof: 2. The method according to claim 1, wherein Q is O. 3. The method according to claim 1, wherein R6 is H. 4. The method according to claim 1, wherein R6 is —C(O)CH3, —C(O)CH2CH3, —C(O)(CH2)2CH3, —C(O)(CH2)3CH3, —C(O)(CH2)4CH3, or —C(O)(CH2)5CH3. 5. The method according to claim 1, wherein R2 is —CO-Aaa. 6. The method according to claim 1, wherein the compound of formula (I) is a compound of formula (IA): 7. The method according to claim 1, wherein Aaa is the amino acid residue Thr or Ser; wherein the C-terminus is the free terminus. 8. The method according to claim 1, wherein the compound of formula (I) is a compound of formula (IB): 9. The method according to claim 1, wherein R1 represents the side chain of an amino acid residue Ser or Thr. 10. The method according to claim 1, wherein R1 is substituted with C1-5 alkyl. 11. The method according to claim 1, wherein R3 represents the side chain of the amino acid residue Asn or Glu. 12. The method according to claim 1, wherein:
R1 represents the side chain of an amino acid residue Ser or Thr; R2 is —CO-Aaa; Aaa is the amino acid residue Thr or Ser; wherein the C-terminus is a free terminus; and R3 represents the side chain of the amino acid residue Asn or Glu. 13. The method according to claim 1, wherein R1 represents the side chain of the amino acid residue Ser. 14. The method according to claim 1, wherein R1 represents the side chain of the amino acid residue Thr. 15. The method according to claim 1, wherein Aaa is Ser. 16. The method according to claim 1, wherein Aaa is Thr. 17. The method according to claim 1, wherein R3 represents the side chain of the amino acid residue Asn. 18. The method according to claim 1, wherein R3 represents the side chain of the amino acid residue Asp. 19. The method according to claim 1, wherein R3 represents the side chain of the amino acid residue Gln. 20. The method according to claim 1, wherein R3 represents the side chain of the amino acid residue Glu. 21. The method according to claim 1, wherein R2 is H. 22. The method according to claim 1, wherein the compound has the following structure: 23. The method according to claim 1, wherein the compound has the following structure: 24. The method according to claim 1, wherein the compound has the following structure: 25. The compound according to claim 1, wherein the compound has the following structure: 26. The method according to claim 1, wherein the compound has the following structure: 27. The method according to claim 1, wherein the compound has the following structure: 28. The method according to claim 1, wherein the compound has the following structure: 29. The method according to claim 1, wherein the compound has the following structure: 30. The method according to claim 1, wherein the compound has the following structure: 31. The method according to claim 1, wherein the compound has the following structure: 32. The method according to claim 1, wherein the compound has the following structure: 33. The method according to claim 1, wherein the compound has the following structure: 34. The method according to claim 1, wherein the compound has the following structure: 35. The method according to claim 1, wherein the compound has the following structure: 36. The method according to claim 1, wherein the compound has the following structure: 37. The method according to claim 1, wherein the compound has the following structure: 38. The method according to claim 1, wherein the compound has the following structure: 39. The method according to claim 1, wherein the compound has the following structure: 40. The method according to claim 1, wherein the compound has the following structure: 41. The method according to claim 1, wherein the compound has the following structure: 42. The method according to claim 1, wherein the compound has the following structure: 43. The method according to claim 1, wherein the compound has the following structure: 44. The method according to claim 1, wherein the compound has the following structure: 45. The method according to claim 1, wherein the compound has the following structure: 46. The method according to claim 15, wherein the compound has the following structure: 47. The method according to claim 1, wherein the cancer is selected from the group consisting of breast cancer, colon cancer, lung cancer, melanoma, prostate cancer, and renal cancer. 48. The method according to claim 47, wherein the cancer is bone cancer, cancer of the head or neck, pancreatic cancer, skin cancer, cutaneous or intraocular malignant melanoma, carcinoma of the endometrium, carcinoma of the cervix, carcinoma of the vagina, carcinoma of the vulva, Hodgkin's Disease, non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, cancer of the esophagus, cancer of the small intestine, cancer of the endocrine system, cancer of the thyroid gland, cancer of the parathyroid gland, cancer of the adrenal gland, sarcoma of soft tissue, cancer of the urethra, cancer of the penis, chronic or acute leukemias including acute myeloid leukemia, chronic myeloid leukemia, acute lymphoblastic leukemia, chronic lymphocytic leukemia, solid tumors of childhood, lymphocytic lymphoma, cancer of the bladder, cancer of the kidney or ureter, carcinoma of the renal pelvis, neoplasm of the central nervous system (CNS), primary CNS lymphoma, tumor angiogenesis, spinal axis tumor, brain stem glioma, pituitary adenoma, Kaposi's sarcoma, epidermoid cancer, squamous cell cancer, T-cell lymphoma, environmentally induced cancers including those induced by asbestos, and combinations of said cancers. | 2,400 |
349,334 | 16,806,865 | 2,446 | A surgical clip applier and methods for applying surgical clips to a vessel, duct, shunt, etc., during a surgical procedure are provided. In one exemplary embodiment, a surgical clip applier is provided having a housing with a trigger movably coupled thereto and a shaft extending therefrom with opposed jaws formed on a distal end thereof. The trigger is adapted to advance a clip to position the clip between the jaws, and to move the jaws from an open position to a closed position to crimp the clip positioned therebetween. The surgical clip applier can include a variety of features to facilitate use of the device, including features to prevent misalignment of the jaws and clip therebetween, features to protect the jaws, and features to ensure proper closure of the jaws and clip therebetween. | 1. A surgical clip applier, comprising:
a housing; a shaft extending from the housing; a jaw insert having a proximal portion disposed within the elongate shaft and extending in a first plane containing a longitudinal axis of the shaft, and a distal portion having opposed first and second jaws extending in a second plane transverse to the first plane, each jaw having
a distal portion that extends transverse to a proximal portion, and an intersection between the proximal and distal portions defining a maximum width of the first and second jaws,
opposed inward facing surfaces on the distal portion of the first and second jaws defining a clip track for receiving a distal-most clip from a plurality of clips disposed within the shaft, the opposed inward facing surfaces extending non-parallel to one another when the jaws are in an open position and extending substantially parallel to one another when the jaws are in a closed position,
outer contact surfaces on the proximal portion of the first and second jaws;
a former tube extending along the shaft and disposed around the jaw insert proximal of the first and second jaws, the former tube being movable distally to engage the outer contact surfaces to cause the first and second jaws to pivot from the open position to the closed position for deforming a clip seated in the clip track, wherein an initial point of contact occurs at a distal-most tip of the first and second jaws as the jaws move to the closed configuration, and the former tube having a coupling feature at a proximal end thereof; a shroud assembly including first and second shrouds disposed around the pair of jaws, the shroud assembly forming a gap that limits movement of the jaws along a single plane, the first and second shrouds forming at least one mechanical interlock configured to fix a height of the gap; a former plate disposed within the housing and having a u-shaped hook on a distal end positioned on one side of and in engagement with a flange on a proximal end of the coupling feature such that distal movement of the former plate causes corresponding distal movement of the former tube while allowing rotation of the shaft and the former tube relative to the housing and the former plate; and a protective cap formed from a rigid material and disposed over the first and second jaws, wherein the protective cap is releasably retained on the first and second jaws by at least one detent. 2. The surgical clip applier of claim 1, wherein the at least one mechanical interlock comprises a first mechanical interlock and a second mechanical interlock. 3. The surgical clip applier of claim 2, wherein the first mechanical interlock comprises at least one of a keyed sliding-fit coupling, a stepped sliding-fit coupling, and a snap-fit coupling. 4. The surgical clip applier of claim 3, wherein the second mechanical interlock comprises a welded coupling between the first and second shrouds. 5. The surgical clip applier of claim 1, wherein the first mechanical interlock is positioned along top and bottom sides of the shroud assembly. 6. The surgical clip applier of claim 1, wherein the at least one mechanical interlock comprises a first mechanical interlock comprising a hooked coupling and a second mechanical interlock comprising a spring flange coupling. 7. The surgical clip applier of claim 1, wherein the u-shaped hook is configured to extend around a side of the flange that is opposite from a direction of offset of the former plate relative to a longitudinal axis of the coupling feature. 8. The surgical clip applier of claim 1, wherein the u-shaped hook includes a space therealong. 9. The surgical clip applier of claim 1, wherein the protective cap includes a spring flange having a protrusion that engages the at least one detent. 10. A surgical clip applier, comprising:
a shaft having first and second jaws at a distal end thereof, each jaw having a proximal portion and a distal portion that extends transverse to the proximal portion, the distal portion of the first and second jaws having opposed inward facing surfaces defining a clip track for receiving a distal-most clip from a plurality of clips disposed within the shaft, and the proximal portion of the first and second jaws having outer contact surfaces, an intersection between the proximal and distal portion defining a maximum width of the first and second jaws; and a former member disposed proximal of the first and second jaws and movable distally to engage the outer contact surfaces to cause the first and second jaws to pivot from an open configuration to a closed configuration for deforming a clip seated in the clip track, wherein an initial point of contact occurs at a distal-most tip of the first and second jaws as the jaws move to the closed configuration. 11. The surgical clip applier of claim 10, further comprising a shroud assembly including first and second shrouds disposed around the first and second jaws, the shroud assembly forming a gap that limits movement of the first and second jaws along a single plane, the first and second shrouds forming at least one mechanical interlock configured to fix a height of the gap. 12. The surgical clip applier of claim 10, wherein the at least one mechanical interlock comprises a first mechanical interlock and a second mechanical interlock. 13. The surgical clip applier of claim 12, wherein the first mechanical interlock comprises at least one of a keyed sliding-fit coupling, a stepped sliding-fit coupling, and a snap-fit coupling. 14. The surgical clip applier of claim 13, wherein the second mechanical interlock comprises a welded coupling between the first and second shrouds. 15. The surgical clip applier of claim 12, wherein the first mechanical interlock is positioned along top and bottom sides of the shroud assembly. 16. The surgical clip applier of claim 11, wherein the at least one mechanical interlock comprises a first mechanical interlock comprising a hooked coupling and a second mechanical interlock comprising a spring flange coupling. 17. The surgical clip applier of claim 10, further including a protective cap formed from a rigid material and disposed over the first and second jaws, wherein the protective cap is releasably retained on the first and second jaws by at least one detent. 18. The surgical clip applier of claim 10, wherein the former member includes a coupling feature at a proximal end thereof, and wherein the surgical clip applier further comprises a former plate having a u-shaped hook on a distal end positioned on one side of and in engagement with a flange on a proximal end of the coupling feature such that distal movement of the former plate causes corresponding distal movement of the former member while allowing rotation of the shaft and the former member relative to the former plate. | A surgical clip applier and methods for applying surgical clips to a vessel, duct, shunt, etc., during a surgical procedure are provided. In one exemplary embodiment, a surgical clip applier is provided having a housing with a trigger movably coupled thereto and a shaft extending therefrom with opposed jaws formed on a distal end thereof. The trigger is adapted to advance a clip to position the clip between the jaws, and to move the jaws from an open position to a closed position to crimp the clip positioned therebetween. The surgical clip applier can include a variety of features to facilitate use of the device, including features to prevent misalignment of the jaws and clip therebetween, features to protect the jaws, and features to ensure proper closure of the jaws and clip therebetween.1. A surgical clip applier, comprising:
a housing; a shaft extending from the housing; a jaw insert having a proximal portion disposed within the elongate shaft and extending in a first plane containing a longitudinal axis of the shaft, and a distal portion having opposed first and second jaws extending in a second plane transverse to the first plane, each jaw having
a distal portion that extends transverse to a proximal portion, and an intersection between the proximal and distal portions defining a maximum width of the first and second jaws,
opposed inward facing surfaces on the distal portion of the first and second jaws defining a clip track for receiving a distal-most clip from a plurality of clips disposed within the shaft, the opposed inward facing surfaces extending non-parallel to one another when the jaws are in an open position and extending substantially parallel to one another when the jaws are in a closed position,
outer contact surfaces on the proximal portion of the first and second jaws;
a former tube extending along the shaft and disposed around the jaw insert proximal of the first and second jaws, the former tube being movable distally to engage the outer contact surfaces to cause the first and second jaws to pivot from the open position to the closed position for deforming a clip seated in the clip track, wherein an initial point of contact occurs at a distal-most tip of the first and second jaws as the jaws move to the closed configuration, and the former tube having a coupling feature at a proximal end thereof; a shroud assembly including first and second shrouds disposed around the pair of jaws, the shroud assembly forming a gap that limits movement of the jaws along a single plane, the first and second shrouds forming at least one mechanical interlock configured to fix a height of the gap; a former plate disposed within the housing and having a u-shaped hook on a distal end positioned on one side of and in engagement with a flange on a proximal end of the coupling feature such that distal movement of the former plate causes corresponding distal movement of the former tube while allowing rotation of the shaft and the former tube relative to the housing and the former plate; and a protective cap formed from a rigid material and disposed over the first and second jaws, wherein the protective cap is releasably retained on the first and second jaws by at least one detent. 2. The surgical clip applier of claim 1, wherein the at least one mechanical interlock comprises a first mechanical interlock and a second mechanical interlock. 3. The surgical clip applier of claim 2, wherein the first mechanical interlock comprises at least one of a keyed sliding-fit coupling, a stepped sliding-fit coupling, and a snap-fit coupling. 4. The surgical clip applier of claim 3, wherein the second mechanical interlock comprises a welded coupling between the first and second shrouds. 5. The surgical clip applier of claim 1, wherein the first mechanical interlock is positioned along top and bottom sides of the shroud assembly. 6. The surgical clip applier of claim 1, wherein the at least one mechanical interlock comprises a first mechanical interlock comprising a hooked coupling and a second mechanical interlock comprising a spring flange coupling. 7. The surgical clip applier of claim 1, wherein the u-shaped hook is configured to extend around a side of the flange that is opposite from a direction of offset of the former plate relative to a longitudinal axis of the coupling feature. 8. The surgical clip applier of claim 1, wherein the u-shaped hook includes a space therealong. 9. The surgical clip applier of claim 1, wherein the protective cap includes a spring flange having a protrusion that engages the at least one detent. 10. A surgical clip applier, comprising:
a shaft having first and second jaws at a distal end thereof, each jaw having a proximal portion and a distal portion that extends transverse to the proximal portion, the distal portion of the first and second jaws having opposed inward facing surfaces defining a clip track for receiving a distal-most clip from a plurality of clips disposed within the shaft, and the proximal portion of the first and second jaws having outer contact surfaces, an intersection between the proximal and distal portion defining a maximum width of the first and second jaws; and a former member disposed proximal of the first and second jaws and movable distally to engage the outer contact surfaces to cause the first and second jaws to pivot from an open configuration to a closed configuration for deforming a clip seated in the clip track, wherein an initial point of contact occurs at a distal-most tip of the first and second jaws as the jaws move to the closed configuration. 11. The surgical clip applier of claim 10, further comprising a shroud assembly including first and second shrouds disposed around the first and second jaws, the shroud assembly forming a gap that limits movement of the first and second jaws along a single plane, the first and second shrouds forming at least one mechanical interlock configured to fix a height of the gap. 12. The surgical clip applier of claim 10, wherein the at least one mechanical interlock comprises a first mechanical interlock and a second mechanical interlock. 13. The surgical clip applier of claim 12, wherein the first mechanical interlock comprises at least one of a keyed sliding-fit coupling, a stepped sliding-fit coupling, and a snap-fit coupling. 14. The surgical clip applier of claim 13, wherein the second mechanical interlock comprises a welded coupling between the first and second shrouds. 15. The surgical clip applier of claim 12, wherein the first mechanical interlock is positioned along top and bottom sides of the shroud assembly. 16. The surgical clip applier of claim 11, wherein the at least one mechanical interlock comprises a first mechanical interlock comprising a hooked coupling and a second mechanical interlock comprising a spring flange coupling. 17. The surgical clip applier of claim 10, further including a protective cap formed from a rigid material and disposed over the first and second jaws, wherein the protective cap is releasably retained on the first and second jaws by at least one detent. 18. The surgical clip applier of claim 10, wherein the former member includes a coupling feature at a proximal end thereof, and wherein the surgical clip applier further comprises a former plate having a u-shaped hook on a distal end positioned on one side of and in engagement with a flange on a proximal end of the coupling feature such that distal movement of the former plate causes corresponding distal movement of the former member while allowing rotation of the shaft and the former member relative to the former plate. | 2,400 |
349,335 | 16,806,896 | 2,446 | A surgical clip applier and methods for applying surgical clips to a vessel, duct, shunt, etc., during a surgical procedure are provided. In one exemplary embodiment, a surgical clip applier is provided having a housing with a trigger movably coupled thereto and a shaft extending therefrom with opposed jaws formed on a distal end thereof. The trigger is adapted to advance a clip to position the clip between the jaws, and to move the jaws from an open position to a closed position to crimp the clip positioned therebetween. The surgical clip applier can include a variety of features to facilitate use of the device, including features to prevent misalignment of the jaws and clip therebetween, features to protect the jaws, and features to ensure proper closure of the jaws and clip therebetween. | 1. A surgical clip applier, comprising:
a housing; a shaft extending from the housing; a jaw insert having a proximal portion disposed within the elongate shaft and extending in a first plane containing a longitudinal axis of the shaft, and a distal portion having opposed first and second jaws extending in a second plane transverse to the first plane, each jaw having
a distal portion that extends transverse to a proximal portion, and an intersection between the proximal and distal portions defining a maximum width of the first and second jaws,
opposed inward facing surfaces on the distal portion of the first and second jaws defining a clip track for receiving a distal-most clip from a plurality of clips disposed within the shaft, the opposed inward facing surfaces extending non-parallel to one another when the jaws are in an open position and extending substantially parallel to one another when the jaws are in a closed position,
outer contact surfaces on the proximal portion of the first and second jaws;
a former tube extending along the shaft and disposed around the jaw insert proximal of the first and second jaws, the former tube being movable distally to engage the outer contact surfaces to cause the first and second jaws to pivot from the open position to the closed position for deforming a clip seated in the clip track, wherein an initial point of contact occurs at a distal-most tip of the first and second jaws as the jaws move to the closed configuration, and the former tube having a coupling feature at a proximal end thereof; a shroud assembly including first and second shrouds disposed around the pair of jaws, the shroud assembly forming a gap that limits movement of the jaws along a single plane, the first and second shrouds forming at least one mechanical interlock configured to fix a height of the gap; a former plate disposed within the housing and having a u-shaped hook on a distal end positioned on one side of and in engagement with a flange on a proximal end of the coupling feature such that distal movement of the former plate causes corresponding distal movement of the former tube while allowing rotation of the shaft and the former tube relative to the housing and the former plate; and a protective cap formed from a rigid material and disposed over the first and second jaws, wherein the protective cap is releasably retained on the first and second jaws by at least one detent. 2. The surgical clip applier of claim 1, wherein the at least one mechanical interlock comprises a first mechanical interlock and a second mechanical interlock. 3. The surgical clip applier of claim 2, wherein the first mechanical interlock comprises at least one of a keyed sliding-fit coupling, a stepped sliding-fit coupling, and a snap-fit coupling. 4. The surgical clip applier of claim 3, wherein the second mechanical interlock comprises a welded coupling between the first and second shrouds. 5. The surgical clip applier of claim 1, wherein the first mechanical interlock is positioned along top and bottom sides of the shroud assembly. 6. The surgical clip applier of claim 1, wherein the at least one mechanical interlock comprises a first mechanical interlock comprising a hooked coupling and a second mechanical interlock comprising a spring flange coupling. 7. The surgical clip applier of claim 1, wherein the u-shaped hook is configured to extend around a side of the flange that is opposite from a direction of offset of the former plate relative to a longitudinal axis of the coupling feature. 8. The surgical clip applier of claim 1, wherein the u-shaped hook includes a space therealong. 9. The surgical clip applier of claim 1, wherein the protective cap includes a spring flange having a protrusion that engages the at least one detent. 10. A surgical clip applier, comprising:
a shaft having first and second jaws at a distal end thereof, each jaw having a proximal portion and a distal portion that extends transverse to the proximal portion, the distal portion of the first and second jaws having opposed inward facing surfaces defining a clip track for receiving a distal-most clip from a plurality of clips disposed within the shaft, and the proximal portion of the first and second jaws having outer contact surfaces, an intersection between the proximal and distal portion defining a maximum width of the first and second jaws; and a former member disposed proximal of the first and second jaws and movable distally to engage the outer contact surfaces to cause the first and second jaws to pivot from an open configuration to a closed configuration for deforming a clip seated in the clip track, wherein an initial point of contact occurs at a distal-most tip of the first and second jaws as the jaws move to the closed configuration. 11. The surgical clip applier of claim 10, further comprising a shroud assembly including first and second shrouds disposed around the first and second jaws, the shroud assembly forming a gap that limits movement of the first and second jaws along a single plane, the first and second shrouds forming at least one mechanical interlock configured to fix a height of the gap. 12. The surgical clip applier of claim 10, wherein the at least one mechanical interlock comprises a first mechanical interlock and a second mechanical interlock. 13. The surgical clip applier of claim 12, wherein the first mechanical interlock comprises at least one of a keyed sliding-fit coupling, a stepped sliding-fit coupling, and a snap-fit coupling. 14. The surgical clip applier of claim 13, wherein the second mechanical interlock comprises a welded coupling between the first and second shrouds. 15. The surgical clip applier of claim 12, wherein the first mechanical interlock is positioned along top and bottom sides of the shroud assembly. 16. The surgical clip applier of claim 11, wherein the at least one mechanical interlock comprises a first mechanical interlock comprising a hooked coupling and a second mechanical interlock comprising a spring flange coupling. 17. The surgical clip applier of claim 10, further including a protective cap formed from a rigid material and disposed over the first and second jaws, wherein the protective cap is releasably retained on the first and second jaws by at least one detent. 18. The surgical clip applier of claim 10, wherein the former member includes a coupling feature at a proximal end thereof, and wherein the surgical clip applier further comprises a former plate having a u-shaped hook on a distal end positioned on one side of and in engagement with a flange on a proximal end of the coupling feature such that distal movement of the former plate causes corresponding distal movement of the former member while allowing rotation of the shaft and the former member relative to the former plate. | A surgical clip applier and methods for applying surgical clips to a vessel, duct, shunt, etc., during a surgical procedure are provided. In one exemplary embodiment, a surgical clip applier is provided having a housing with a trigger movably coupled thereto and a shaft extending therefrom with opposed jaws formed on a distal end thereof. The trigger is adapted to advance a clip to position the clip between the jaws, and to move the jaws from an open position to a closed position to crimp the clip positioned therebetween. The surgical clip applier can include a variety of features to facilitate use of the device, including features to prevent misalignment of the jaws and clip therebetween, features to protect the jaws, and features to ensure proper closure of the jaws and clip therebetween.1. A surgical clip applier, comprising:
a housing; a shaft extending from the housing; a jaw insert having a proximal portion disposed within the elongate shaft and extending in a first plane containing a longitudinal axis of the shaft, and a distal portion having opposed first and second jaws extending in a second plane transverse to the first plane, each jaw having
a distal portion that extends transverse to a proximal portion, and an intersection between the proximal and distal portions defining a maximum width of the first and second jaws,
opposed inward facing surfaces on the distal portion of the first and second jaws defining a clip track for receiving a distal-most clip from a plurality of clips disposed within the shaft, the opposed inward facing surfaces extending non-parallel to one another when the jaws are in an open position and extending substantially parallel to one another when the jaws are in a closed position,
outer contact surfaces on the proximal portion of the first and second jaws;
a former tube extending along the shaft and disposed around the jaw insert proximal of the first and second jaws, the former tube being movable distally to engage the outer contact surfaces to cause the first and second jaws to pivot from the open position to the closed position for deforming a clip seated in the clip track, wherein an initial point of contact occurs at a distal-most tip of the first and second jaws as the jaws move to the closed configuration, and the former tube having a coupling feature at a proximal end thereof; a shroud assembly including first and second shrouds disposed around the pair of jaws, the shroud assembly forming a gap that limits movement of the jaws along a single plane, the first and second shrouds forming at least one mechanical interlock configured to fix a height of the gap; a former plate disposed within the housing and having a u-shaped hook on a distal end positioned on one side of and in engagement with a flange on a proximal end of the coupling feature such that distal movement of the former plate causes corresponding distal movement of the former tube while allowing rotation of the shaft and the former tube relative to the housing and the former plate; and a protective cap formed from a rigid material and disposed over the first and second jaws, wherein the protective cap is releasably retained on the first and second jaws by at least one detent. 2. The surgical clip applier of claim 1, wherein the at least one mechanical interlock comprises a first mechanical interlock and a second mechanical interlock. 3. The surgical clip applier of claim 2, wherein the first mechanical interlock comprises at least one of a keyed sliding-fit coupling, a stepped sliding-fit coupling, and a snap-fit coupling. 4. The surgical clip applier of claim 3, wherein the second mechanical interlock comprises a welded coupling between the first and second shrouds. 5. The surgical clip applier of claim 1, wherein the first mechanical interlock is positioned along top and bottom sides of the shroud assembly. 6. The surgical clip applier of claim 1, wherein the at least one mechanical interlock comprises a first mechanical interlock comprising a hooked coupling and a second mechanical interlock comprising a spring flange coupling. 7. The surgical clip applier of claim 1, wherein the u-shaped hook is configured to extend around a side of the flange that is opposite from a direction of offset of the former plate relative to a longitudinal axis of the coupling feature. 8. The surgical clip applier of claim 1, wherein the u-shaped hook includes a space therealong. 9. The surgical clip applier of claim 1, wherein the protective cap includes a spring flange having a protrusion that engages the at least one detent. 10. A surgical clip applier, comprising:
a shaft having first and second jaws at a distal end thereof, each jaw having a proximal portion and a distal portion that extends transverse to the proximal portion, the distal portion of the first and second jaws having opposed inward facing surfaces defining a clip track for receiving a distal-most clip from a plurality of clips disposed within the shaft, and the proximal portion of the first and second jaws having outer contact surfaces, an intersection between the proximal and distal portion defining a maximum width of the first and second jaws; and a former member disposed proximal of the first and second jaws and movable distally to engage the outer contact surfaces to cause the first and second jaws to pivot from an open configuration to a closed configuration for deforming a clip seated in the clip track, wherein an initial point of contact occurs at a distal-most tip of the first and second jaws as the jaws move to the closed configuration. 11. The surgical clip applier of claim 10, further comprising a shroud assembly including first and second shrouds disposed around the first and second jaws, the shroud assembly forming a gap that limits movement of the first and second jaws along a single plane, the first and second shrouds forming at least one mechanical interlock configured to fix a height of the gap. 12. The surgical clip applier of claim 10, wherein the at least one mechanical interlock comprises a first mechanical interlock and a second mechanical interlock. 13. The surgical clip applier of claim 12, wherein the first mechanical interlock comprises at least one of a keyed sliding-fit coupling, a stepped sliding-fit coupling, and a snap-fit coupling. 14. The surgical clip applier of claim 13, wherein the second mechanical interlock comprises a welded coupling between the first and second shrouds. 15. The surgical clip applier of claim 12, wherein the first mechanical interlock is positioned along top and bottom sides of the shroud assembly. 16. The surgical clip applier of claim 11, wherein the at least one mechanical interlock comprises a first mechanical interlock comprising a hooked coupling and a second mechanical interlock comprising a spring flange coupling. 17. The surgical clip applier of claim 10, further including a protective cap formed from a rigid material and disposed over the first and second jaws, wherein the protective cap is releasably retained on the first and second jaws by at least one detent. 18. The surgical clip applier of claim 10, wherein the former member includes a coupling feature at a proximal end thereof, and wherein the surgical clip applier further comprises a former plate having a u-shaped hook on a distal end positioned on one side of and in engagement with a flange on a proximal end of the coupling feature such that distal movement of the former plate causes corresponding distal movement of the former member while allowing rotation of the shaft and the former member relative to the former plate. | 2,400 |
349,336 | 16,806,911 | 2,446 | The invention relates to a hearing aid a cochlear implant comprising a) at least one input transducer for capturing incoming sound and for generating electric audio signals which represent frequency bands of the incoming sound, b) a sound processor which is configured to analyze and to process the electric audio signals, c) a transmitter that sends the processed electric audio signals, d) a receiver/stimulator, which receives the processed electric audio signals from the transmitter and converts the processed electric audio signals into electric pulses, e) an electrode array embedded in the cochlear comprising a number of electrodes for stimulating the cochlear nerve with said electric pulses, and f) a control unit configured to control the distribution of said electric pulses to the number of said electrodes. The control unit is configured to distribute said electric pulses to the number of said electrodes by applying one out of a plurality of different coding schemes, and wherein the applied coding scheme is selected according to characteristics of the incoming sound. | 1. A cochlear implant comprising
at least one input transducer for capturing incoming sound and for generating electric audio signals which represent frequency bands of the incoming sound, a sound processor which is configured to analyze and to process the electric audio signals, a transmitter that sends the processed electric audio signals, a receiver/stimulator, which receives the processed electric audio signals from the transmitter and converts the processed electric audio signals into electric pulses, an electrode array embedded in the cochlear comprising a number of electrodes for stimulating the cochlear nerve with said electric pulses, and a control unit configured to control the distribution of said electric pulses to the number of said electrodes, 2. A cochlear implant according to claim 1, wherein the sound processor is configured to analyze the characteristics of the incoming sound. 3. A cochlear implant according to claim 1, wherein the distribution of said electric pulses to the number of said electrodes is performed according to a specific hearing situation. 4. A cochlear implant according to claim 1, configured to increase the stimulation rate in case that not all frequencies need to be stimulated. 5. A cochlear implant according to claim 1, configured to apply a stimuli-specific coding scheme for listening to music. 6. A cochlear implant according to claim 5 wherein, the coding scheme for listening to music is configured such that high frequency channels convey rhythm and low frequency channels resolve tonal information. 7. A cochlear implant according to claim 1 wherein the control unit is configured to distribute the electric pulses to the number of electrodes according to a coding scheme for a telephone conversation and/or according to a coding scheme for listening to music and/or according to further coding schemes. 8. A cochlear implant according to claim 1 wherein the sound processor in the cochlear implant is configured to analyze the electric audio signals which represent frequency bands of the incoming sound with respect to an information content and to process only frequency bands that contain meaningful information such that a smaller number of electrodes than the total number of electrodes available is used for stimulating the cochlear nerve. 9. A cochlear implant according to claim 1 configured to activate a power saving mode in which the incoming sound is analyzed by the sound processor and only frequency bands of the incoming sound that contain meaningful information are transmitted to the electrodes. 10. A cochlear implant according to claim 1 wherein some channels of the cochlear implant can be turned off depending on an input channel. 11. A cochlear implant according to claim 1 wherein a special power saving mode can be activated, in which the acoustic input signal is analysed and only frequency bands that contain a certain information content are delivered to the electrodes. 12. A cochlear implant according to claim 10 wherein the power saving mode is configured to use only 1 or 2 broad frequency bands which in case that the incoming sound is above a predefined amplitude threshold are transmitted to 1 or 2 electrodes to convey a modulation for sound awareness. 13. A cochlear implant according to claim 1 wherein the entering of the cochlear implant into the power saving mode is dependent on a user's interaction or reaction to an incoming sound to the one or more microphones, such as head movement or a reply captured by the transducer(s). 14. A cochlear implant according to claim 1 wherein the control unit is configured to control the distribution of electric pulses to the number of electrodes such that electric pulses are delivered to at least every second electrode in order to reduce frequency channel interactions. 15. A cochlear implant according to claim 1 wherein at least one wall channel is provided to reduce channel interactions, wherein the wall channel is a channel in which no signal is presented and which is adjacent to the edge of a channel in which a signal is presented. 16. A cochlear implant according to claim 15 wherein a wall channel stimulus within the wall channel is a low-level pulse, preferably a sub-threshold pulse or a supra-threshold pulse. 17. A cochlear implant according to claim 1 comprising an external part and an implanted part. 18. A cochlear implant system comprising two or more cochlear implants according to claim 1, wherein the cochlear implants are adapted for exchanging information about the applied coding scheme. 19. A cochlear implant system according to claim 18 wherein the exchange of information is provided via a wireless communication link. 20. A cochlear implant system according to claim 18 configured to provide that the same coding scheme is applied in both cochlear implants of a binaural system by exchanging synchronizing control signals between the two cochlear implants. 21. A cochlear implant comprising
at least one input transducer for capturing incoming sound and for generating electric audio signals which represent frequency bands of the incoming sound, a sound processor which is configured to analyze and to process the electric audio signals, a transmitter that sends the processed electric audio signals, a receiver/stimulator, which receives the processed electric audio signals from the transmitter and converts the processed electric audio signals into electric pulses, an electrode array embedded in the cochlear comprising a number of electrodes for stimulating the cochlear nerve with said electric pulses, and a control unit configured to control the distribution of said electric pulses to the number of said electrodes, 22. A cochlear implant according to claim 21 wherein the control unit is configured to distribute said electric pulses to the number of said electrodes by applying one out of a plurality of different coding schemes, and wherein the applied coding scheme is selected according to characteristics of the incoming sound | The invention relates to a hearing aid a cochlear implant comprising a) at least one input transducer for capturing incoming sound and for generating electric audio signals which represent frequency bands of the incoming sound, b) a sound processor which is configured to analyze and to process the electric audio signals, c) a transmitter that sends the processed electric audio signals, d) a receiver/stimulator, which receives the processed electric audio signals from the transmitter and converts the processed electric audio signals into electric pulses, e) an electrode array embedded in the cochlear comprising a number of electrodes for stimulating the cochlear nerve with said electric pulses, and f) a control unit configured to control the distribution of said electric pulses to the number of said electrodes. The control unit is configured to distribute said electric pulses to the number of said electrodes by applying one out of a plurality of different coding schemes, and wherein the applied coding scheme is selected according to characteristics of the incoming sound.1. A cochlear implant comprising
at least one input transducer for capturing incoming sound and for generating electric audio signals which represent frequency bands of the incoming sound, a sound processor which is configured to analyze and to process the electric audio signals, a transmitter that sends the processed electric audio signals, a receiver/stimulator, which receives the processed electric audio signals from the transmitter and converts the processed electric audio signals into electric pulses, an electrode array embedded in the cochlear comprising a number of electrodes for stimulating the cochlear nerve with said electric pulses, and a control unit configured to control the distribution of said electric pulses to the number of said electrodes, 2. A cochlear implant according to claim 1, wherein the sound processor is configured to analyze the characteristics of the incoming sound. 3. A cochlear implant according to claim 1, wherein the distribution of said electric pulses to the number of said electrodes is performed according to a specific hearing situation. 4. A cochlear implant according to claim 1, configured to increase the stimulation rate in case that not all frequencies need to be stimulated. 5. A cochlear implant according to claim 1, configured to apply a stimuli-specific coding scheme for listening to music. 6. A cochlear implant according to claim 5 wherein, the coding scheme for listening to music is configured such that high frequency channels convey rhythm and low frequency channels resolve tonal information. 7. A cochlear implant according to claim 1 wherein the control unit is configured to distribute the electric pulses to the number of electrodes according to a coding scheme for a telephone conversation and/or according to a coding scheme for listening to music and/or according to further coding schemes. 8. A cochlear implant according to claim 1 wherein the sound processor in the cochlear implant is configured to analyze the electric audio signals which represent frequency bands of the incoming sound with respect to an information content and to process only frequency bands that contain meaningful information such that a smaller number of electrodes than the total number of electrodes available is used for stimulating the cochlear nerve. 9. A cochlear implant according to claim 1 configured to activate a power saving mode in which the incoming sound is analyzed by the sound processor and only frequency bands of the incoming sound that contain meaningful information are transmitted to the electrodes. 10. A cochlear implant according to claim 1 wherein some channels of the cochlear implant can be turned off depending on an input channel. 11. A cochlear implant according to claim 1 wherein a special power saving mode can be activated, in which the acoustic input signal is analysed and only frequency bands that contain a certain information content are delivered to the electrodes. 12. A cochlear implant according to claim 10 wherein the power saving mode is configured to use only 1 or 2 broad frequency bands which in case that the incoming sound is above a predefined amplitude threshold are transmitted to 1 or 2 electrodes to convey a modulation for sound awareness. 13. A cochlear implant according to claim 1 wherein the entering of the cochlear implant into the power saving mode is dependent on a user's interaction or reaction to an incoming sound to the one or more microphones, such as head movement or a reply captured by the transducer(s). 14. A cochlear implant according to claim 1 wherein the control unit is configured to control the distribution of electric pulses to the number of electrodes such that electric pulses are delivered to at least every second electrode in order to reduce frequency channel interactions. 15. A cochlear implant according to claim 1 wherein at least one wall channel is provided to reduce channel interactions, wherein the wall channel is a channel in which no signal is presented and which is adjacent to the edge of a channel in which a signal is presented. 16. A cochlear implant according to claim 15 wherein a wall channel stimulus within the wall channel is a low-level pulse, preferably a sub-threshold pulse or a supra-threshold pulse. 17. A cochlear implant according to claim 1 comprising an external part and an implanted part. 18. A cochlear implant system comprising two or more cochlear implants according to claim 1, wherein the cochlear implants are adapted for exchanging information about the applied coding scheme. 19. A cochlear implant system according to claim 18 wherein the exchange of information is provided via a wireless communication link. 20. A cochlear implant system according to claim 18 configured to provide that the same coding scheme is applied in both cochlear implants of a binaural system by exchanging synchronizing control signals between the two cochlear implants. 21. A cochlear implant comprising
at least one input transducer for capturing incoming sound and for generating electric audio signals which represent frequency bands of the incoming sound, a sound processor which is configured to analyze and to process the electric audio signals, a transmitter that sends the processed electric audio signals, a receiver/stimulator, which receives the processed electric audio signals from the transmitter and converts the processed electric audio signals into electric pulses, an electrode array embedded in the cochlear comprising a number of electrodes for stimulating the cochlear nerve with said electric pulses, and a control unit configured to control the distribution of said electric pulses to the number of said electrodes, 22. A cochlear implant according to claim 21 wherein the control unit is configured to distribute said electric pulses to the number of said electrodes by applying one out of a plurality of different coding schemes, and wherein the applied coding scheme is selected according to characteristics of the incoming sound | 2,400 |
349,337 | 16,806,941 | 2,446 | Provided herein are oligomeric compounds with conjugate groups. In certain embodiments, the oligomeric compounds are conjugated to N-Acetylgalactosamine. | 1. A compound comprising a modified oligonucleotide and a conjugate group,
wherein the modified oligonucleotide consists of 10 to 30 linked nucleosides and has a nucleobase sequence at least 95% complementary to SEQ ID NO: 1 encoding hepatitis B virus (HBV), wherein the modified oligonucleotide consists of 10 to 30 linked nucleosides and has a nucleobase sequence comprising the sequence recited in SEQ ID NO: 10, wherein the modified oligonucleotide comprises: a gap segment consisting of linked deoxynucleosides; a 5′ wing segment consisting of linked nucleosides; and a 3′ wing segment consisting of linked nucleosides; wherein the gap segment is positioned between the 5′ wing segment and the 3′ wing segment; wherein each nucleoside of the 5′ wing segment comprises a 2′-O-methoxyethyl sugar or a constrained ethyl sugar; wherein each nucleoside of the 3′ wing segment comprises a 2′-O-methoxyethyl sugar or a constrained ethyl sugar; wherein each internucleoside linkage of the modified oligonucleotide is selected from a phosphodiester internucleoside linkage and a phosphorothioate internucleoside linkage; and wherein each cytosine is a 5-methylcytosine. 2. A compound consisting of ISIS 552925 and a conjugate group (original PCT claim 229). 3. The compound of claim 2, wherein the conjugate group comprises: | Provided herein are oligomeric compounds with conjugate groups. In certain embodiments, the oligomeric compounds are conjugated to N-Acetylgalactosamine.1. A compound comprising a modified oligonucleotide and a conjugate group,
wherein the modified oligonucleotide consists of 10 to 30 linked nucleosides and has a nucleobase sequence at least 95% complementary to SEQ ID NO: 1 encoding hepatitis B virus (HBV), wherein the modified oligonucleotide consists of 10 to 30 linked nucleosides and has a nucleobase sequence comprising the sequence recited in SEQ ID NO: 10, wherein the modified oligonucleotide comprises: a gap segment consisting of linked deoxynucleosides; a 5′ wing segment consisting of linked nucleosides; and a 3′ wing segment consisting of linked nucleosides; wherein the gap segment is positioned between the 5′ wing segment and the 3′ wing segment; wherein each nucleoside of the 5′ wing segment comprises a 2′-O-methoxyethyl sugar or a constrained ethyl sugar; wherein each nucleoside of the 3′ wing segment comprises a 2′-O-methoxyethyl sugar or a constrained ethyl sugar; wherein each internucleoside linkage of the modified oligonucleotide is selected from a phosphodiester internucleoside linkage and a phosphorothioate internucleoside linkage; and wherein each cytosine is a 5-methylcytosine. 2. A compound consisting of ISIS 552925 and a conjugate group (original PCT claim 229). 3. The compound of claim 2, wherein the conjugate group comprises: | 2,400 |
349,338 | 16,806,925 | 2,846 | The current document is directed to various types of oscillating resonant modules (“ORMs”), including linear-resonant vibration modules, that can be incorporated in a wide variety of appliances, devices, and systems to provide vibrational forces. The vibrational forces are produced by back-and-forth oscillation of a weight or member along a path, generally a segment of a space curve. A controller controls each of one or more ORMs to produce driving oscillations according to a control curve or control pattern for the ORM that specifies the frequency of the driving oscillations with respect to time. The driving oscillations, in turn, elicit a desired vibration response in the device, appliance, or system in which the one or more ORMs are included. The desired vibration response is achieved by selecting and scaling control patterns in view of known resonance frequencies of the device, appliance, or system. | 1. An oscillating resonant module comprising:
a mass that is driven by energy supplied to the oscillating resonant module to travel back and forth along an oscillation path that represents a segment of a space curve; one or more direct sensors that output real-time indications of the position of the mass within the oscillation path at specific points in time; and a control component that
receives control signals input to the oscillating resonant module,
receives output from the one or more sensors, and
controls oscillation of the mass to produce a predetermined vibration response according to the received control signal by repeatedly generating a control output, to an actuator that drives the mass to oscillate, corresponding to one or more most recently received sensor outputs. 2. The oscillating resonant module of claim 1 wherein the one or more sensors are selected from among one or more:
mechanical sensors;
electromagnetic sensors; and
optical sensors. 3. The oscillating resonant module of claim 1 wherein the control component determines, from the received sensor output, the velocity of the mass from the positions of the mass at two or more points in time. 4. The oscillating resonant module of claim 3 wherein the control output, output by the control component to the actuator, is computed as the output value of a function that takes, as input, the current position of the mass. 5. The oscillating resonant module of claim 3 wherein the control output, output by the control component to the actuator, is computed as the output value of a function that takes, as input, the current position of the mass and the current velocity of the mass. 6. The oscillating resonant module of claim 3 wherein the control output, output by the control component to the actuator, is computed from pre-computed values indexed by the current position of the mass and the current velocity of the mass. 7. The oscillating resonant module of claim 3 wherein the control output, output by the control component to the actuator, is computed from pre-computed values indexed by the current position of the mass and the current velocity of the mass. 8. The oscillating resonant module of claim 1 mechanically coupled to one or more passive oscillating resonant modules to provide a wider range of vibration responses for the combination of the oscillating resonant module and the one or more passive oscillating resonant modules. 9. The oscillating resonant module of claim 8 wherein the passive oscillating resonant modules are driven by the oscillating resonant module to which they are mechanically coupled. 10. A physical device that exhibits a vibration response when mechanical driven by one or more oscillating resonant modules included in the physical device, the physical device comprising:
the one or more oscillating resonant modules, each of which responds to control inputs to produce driving oscillations and includes a sensor that provides sensor data to a control component within the oscillating resonant module; one or more vibration sensors; a stored characterization of the natural vibration frequencies of the physical device; and a controller that uses accesses the stored characterization of the natural vibration frequencies of the physical device to control the one or more oscillating resonant modules to drive the physical device to exhibit a predetermined vibration response. 11. The physical device of claim 10 wherein each of the one or more oscillating resonant modules comprises:
a mass that is driven by energy supplied to the oscillating resonant module to travel back and forth along an oscillation path that represents a segment of a space curve;
one or more direct sensors that output real-time indications of the position of the mass within the oscillation path at specific points in time; and
a control component that
receives control signals input to the oscillating resonant module,
receives output from the one or more sensors, and
controls oscillation of the mass to produce a predetermined vibration response according to the received control signal by repeatedly generating a control output, to an actuator that drives the mass to oscillate, corresponding to one or more most recently received sensor outputs. 12. The physical device of claim 10 wherein the characterization of the natural vibration frequencies of the physical device is determined by simultaneously sweeping the driving oscillations of the one or more oscillating resonant modules over driving-oscillation ranges and monitoring the physical device vibration response using output from the one or more vibration sensors to identify the maximum-amplitude frequencies. 13. The physical device of claim 12 wherein the characterization of the natural vibration frequencies of the physical device is determined periodically by the controller. 14. The physical device of claim 10 further including stored control information for the one or more oscillating resonant modules for each of one or more predetermined vibration responses that is based on the stored characterization of the natural vibration frequencies of the physical device. 15. The physical device of claim 10 wherein at least one of the each of the one or more oscillating resonant modules is mechanically coupled to one or more passive oscillating resonant modules to provide a wider range of vibration responses for the combination of the oscillating resonant module and the one or more passive oscillating resonant modules. 16. The physical device of claim 15 wherein the passive oscillating resonant modules are driven by the oscillating resonant module to which they are mechanically coupled. 17. An oscillating resonant module comprising:
a first mass that is driven by energy supplied to the oscillating resonant module to travel back and forth along a first oscillation path that represents a segment of a space curve; a second mass that is driven by oscillations of the first mass to travel back and forth along a second oscillation path that represents a segment of a space curve; and a control component that
receives control signals input to the oscillating resonant module, and
controls oscillation of the first mass to produce a predetermined vibration response according to the received control signals by generating a control output to an actuator that drives the first mass to oscillate. 18. The oscillating resonant module of claim 17 further comprising:
one or more direct sensors that output real-time indications of the position of the mass within the oscillation path at specific points in time that are used by the control component to generate corresponding control outputs to the actuator that drives the first mass to oscillate. 19. The oscillating resonant module of claim 17 further comprising:
one or more sensors that output indications directly correlated with the position of the second mass within the second oscillation path at specific points in time that are used by the control component to generate corresponding control outputs to the actuator that drives the first mass to oscillate. 20. The oscillating resonant module of claim 17 included within a physical device to drive a vibration response in the physical device. | The current document is directed to various types of oscillating resonant modules (“ORMs”), including linear-resonant vibration modules, that can be incorporated in a wide variety of appliances, devices, and systems to provide vibrational forces. The vibrational forces are produced by back-and-forth oscillation of a weight or member along a path, generally a segment of a space curve. A controller controls each of one or more ORMs to produce driving oscillations according to a control curve or control pattern for the ORM that specifies the frequency of the driving oscillations with respect to time. The driving oscillations, in turn, elicit a desired vibration response in the device, appliance, or system in which the one or more ORMs are included. The desired vibration response is achieved by selecting and scaling control patterns in view of known resonance frequencies of the device, appliance, or system.1. An oscillating resonant module comprising:
a mass that is driven by energy supplied to the oscillating resonant module to travel back and forth along an oscillation path that represents a segment of a space curve; one or more direct sensors that output real-time indications of the position of the mass within the oscillation path at specific points in time; and a control component that
receives control signals input to the oscillating resonant module,
receives output from the one or more sensors, and
controls oscillation of the mass to produce a predetermined vibration response according to the received control signal by repeatedly generating a control output, to an actuator that drives the mass to oscillate, corresponding to one or more most recently received sensor outputs. 2. The oscillating resonant module of claim 1 wherein the one or more sensors are selected from among one or more:
mechanical sensors;
electromagnetic sensors; and
optical sensors. 3. The oscillating resonant module of claim 1 wherein the control component determines, from the received sensor output, the velocity of the mass from the positions of the mass at two or more points in time. 4. The oscillating resonant module of claim 3 wherein the control output, output by the control component to the actuator, is computed as the output value of a function that takes, as input, the current position of the mass. 5. The oscillating resonant module of claim 3 wherein the control output, output by the control component to the actuator, is computed as the output value of a function that takes, as input, the current position of the mass and the current velocity of the mass. 6. The oscillating resonant module of claim 3 wherein the control output, output by the control component to the actuator, is computed from pre-computed values indexed by the current position of the mass and the current velocity of the mass. 7. The oscillating resonant module of claim 3 wherein the control output, output by the control component to the actuator, is computed from pre-computed values indexed by the current position of the mass and the current velocity of the mass. 8. The oscillating resonant module of claim 1 mechanically coupled to one or more passive oscillating resonant modules to provide a wider range of vibration responses for the combination of the oscillating resonant module and the one or more passive oscillating resonant modules. 9. The oscillating resonant module of claim 8 wherein the passive oscillating resonant modules are driven by the oscillating resonant module to which they are mechanically coupled. 10. A physical device that exhibits a vibration response when mechanical driven by one or more oscillating resonant modules included in the physical device, the physical device comprising:
the one or more oscillating resonant modules, each of which responds to control inputs to produce driving oscillations and includes a sensor that provides sensor data to a control component within the oscillating resonant module; one or more vibration sensors; a stored characterization of the natural vibration frequencies of the physical device; and a controller that uses accesses the stored characterization of the natural vibration frequencies of the physical device to control the one or more oscillating resonant modules to drive the physical device to exhibit a predetermined vibration response. 11. The physical device of claim 10 wherein each of the one or more oscillating resonant modules comprises:
a mass that is driven by energy supplied to the oscillating resonant module to travel back and forth along an oscillation path that represents a segment of a space curve;
one or more direct sensors that output real-time indications of the position of the mass within the oscillation path at specific points in time; and
a control component that
receives control signals input to the oscillating resonant module,
receives output from the one or more sensors, and
controls oscillation of the mass to produce a predetermined vibration response according to the received control signal by repeatedly generating a control output, to an actuator that drives the mass to oscillate, corresponding to one or more most recently received sensor outputs. 12. The physical device of claim 10 wherein the characterization of the natural vibration frequencies of the physical device is determined by simultaneously sweeping the driving oscillations of the one or more oscillating resonant modules over driving-oscillation ranges and monitoring the physical device vibration response using output from the one or more vibration sensors to identify the maximum-amplitude frequencies. 13. The physical device of claim 12 wherein the characterization of the natural vibration frequencies of the physical device is determined periodically by the controller. 14. The physical device of claim 10 further including stored control information for the one or more oscillating resonant modules for each of one or more predetermined vibration responses that is based on the stored characterization of the natural vibration frequencies of the physical device. 15. The physical device of claim 10 wherein at least one of the each of the one or more oscillating resonant modules is mechanically coupled to one or more passive oscillating resonant modules to provide a wider range of vibration responses for the combination of the oscillating resonant module and the one or more passive oscillating resonant modules. 16. The physical device of claim 15 wherein the passive oscillating resonant modules are driven by the oscillating resonant module to which they are mechanically coupled. 17. An oscillating resonant module comprising:
a first mass that is driven by energy supplied to the oscillating resonant module to travel back and forth along a first oscillation path that represents a segment of a space curve; a second mass that is driven by oscillations of the first mass to travel back and forth along a second oscillation path that represents a segment of a space curve; and a control component that
receives control signals input to the oscillating resonant module, and
controls oscillation of the first mass to produce a predetermined vibration response according to the received control signals by generating a control output to an actuator that drives the first mass to oscillate. 18. The oscillating resonant module of claim 17 further comprising:
one or more direct sensors that output real-time indications of the position of the mass within the oscillation path at specific points in time that are used by the control component to generate corresponding control outputs to the actuator that drives the first mass to oscillate. 19. The oscillating resonant module of claim 17 further comprising:
one or more sensors that output indications directly correlated with the position of the second mass within the second oscillation path at specific points in time that are used by the control component to generate corresponding control outputs to the actuator that drives the first mass to oscillate. 20. The oscillating resonant module of claim 17 included within a physical device to drive a vibration response in the physical device. | 2,800 |
349,339 | 16,806,927 | 2,846 | In one example, a semiconductor device comprises a substrate comprising a conductive structure, an electronic component over a top side of the substrate and electrically coupled with the conductive structure, a lid structure over the substrate and over the electronic component, and a vertical interconnect in the lid structure extending to a top surface of the lid structure and electrically coupled with the conductive structure. Other examples and related methods are also disclosed herein. | 1. A semiconductor device, comprising:
a substrate comprising a conductive structure; an electronic component over a top side of the substrate and electrically coupled with the conductive structure; a lid structure over the substrate and over the electronic component; and a vertical interconnect in the lid structure extending to a top surface of the lid structure and electrically coupled with the conductive structure. 2. The semiconductor device of claim 1, further comprising a seal between the top side of the substrate and a bottom side of the lid structure. 3. The semiconductor device of claim 1, wherein the lid structure comprises a cavity and the electronic component is in the cavity. 4. The semiconductor device of claim 1, wherein the lid structure comprises a lid cover and a sidewall between the lid cover and the substrate. 5. The semiconductor device of claim 4, further comprising a seal between the lid cover and the sidewall. 6. The semiconductor device of claim 4, wherein the vertical interconnect comprises a lid vertical interconnect in the lid cover and a sidewall vertical interconnect in the sidewall, and the sidewall vertical interconnect is electrically coupled with the lid vertical interconnect and the conductive structure. 7. The semiconductor device of claim 1, further comprising a lid connector electrically connected with the vertical interconnect and the conductive structure. 8. The semiconductor device of claim 1, further comprising an external interconnect on a top side of the lid structure and electrically coupled with the vertical interconnect. 9. The semiconductor device of claim 1, wherein the lid structure comprises glass. 10. A semiconductor device, comprising:
a base component; a substrate over a top side of the base component and comprising a conductive structure; an electronic component over a top side of the substrate and electrically coupled with the conductive structure; a lid structure over the substrate and the electronic component; and a vertical interconnect in the base component electrically coupled with the conductive structure. 11. The semiconductor device of claim 10, further comprising a seal between the lid structure and the substrate. 12. The semiconductor device of claim 10, wherein the lid structure comprises a cavity and the electronic component is in the cavity. 13. The semiconductor device of claim 10, wherein the lid structure comprises a lid cover and a lid sidewall between the lid cover and the substrate. 14. The semiconductor device of claim 13, further comprising a seal between the lid cover and the lid sidewall. 15. The semiconductor device of claim 10, further comprising an external interconnect electrically coupled with the vertical interconnect. 16. The semiconductor device of claim 10, wherein the lid structure comprises glass. 17. A method to manufacture a semiconductor device, comprising:
providing a substrate comprising a conductive structure; providing an electronic device over a top side of the substrate and electrically coupling the electronic device with the conductive structure; providing a seal on the top side of the substrate; and providing a lid structure over the top side of the substrate and over the electronic device. 18. The method of claim 17, wherein the lid structure comprises a vertical interconnect, and further comprising electrically coupling the vertical interconnect with the conductive structure. 19. The method of claim 17, wherein the substrate is on a base component comprising a vertical interconnect, and further comprising electrically coupling the vertical interconnect with the conductive structure. 20. The method of claim 17, further comprising attaching an external connector to a vertical interconnect in the lid structure or in a base component coupled with the substrate. | In one example, a semiconductor device comprises a substrate comprising a conductive structure, an electronic component over a top side of the substrate and electrically coupled with the conductive structure, a lid structure over the substrate and over the electronic component, and a vertical interconnect in the lid structure extending to a top surface of the lid structure and electrically coupled with the conductive structure. Other examples and related methods are also disclosed herein.1. A semiconductor device, comprising:
a substrate comprising a conductive structure; an electronic component over a top side of the substrate and electrically coupled with the conductive structure; a lid structure over the substrate and over the electronic component; and a vertical interconnect in the lid structure extending to a top surface of the lid structure and electrically coupled with the conductive structure. 2. The semiconductor device of claim 1, further comprising a seal between the top side of the substrate and a bottom side of the lid structure. 3. The semiconductor device of claim 1, wherein the lid structure comprises a cavity and the electronic component is in the cavity. 4. The semiconductor device of claim 1, wherein the lid structure comprises a lid cover and a sidewall between the lid cover and the substrate. 5. The semiconductor device of claim 4, further comprising a seal between the lid cover and the sidewall. 6. The semiconductor device of claim 4, wherein the vertical interconnect comprises a lid vertical interconnect in the lid cover and a sidewall vertical interconnect in the sidewall, and the sidewall vertical interconnect is electrically coupled with the lid vertical interconnect and the conductive structure. 7. The semiconductor device of claim 1, further comprising a lid connector electrically connected with the vertical interconnect and the conductive structure. 8. The semiconductor device of claim 1, further comprising an external interconnect on a top side of the lid structure and electrically coupled with the vertical interconnect. 9. The semiconductor device of claim 1, wherein the lid structure comprises glass. 10. A semiconductor device, comprising:
a base component; a substrate over a top side of the base component and comprising a conductive structure; an electronic component over a top side of the substrate and electrically coupled with the conductive structure; a lid structure over the substrate and the electronic component; and a vertical interconnect in the base component electrically coupled with the conductive structure. 11. The semiconductor device of claim 10, further comprising a seal between the lid structure and the substrate. 12. The semiconductor device of claim 10, wherein the lid structure comprises a cavity and the electronic component is in the cavity. 13. The semiconductor device of claim 10, wherein the lid structure comprises a lid cover and a lid sidewall between the lid cover and the substrate. 14. The semiconductor device of claim 13, further comprising a seal between the lid cover and the lid sidewall. 15. The semiconductor device of claim 10, further comprising an external interconnect electrically coupled with the vertical interconnect. 16. The semiconductor device of claim 10, wherein the lid structure comprises glass. 17. A method to manufacture a semiconductor device, comprising:
providing a substrate comprising a conductive structure; providing an electronic device over a top side of the substrate and electrically coupling the electronic device with the conductive structure; providing a seal on the top side of the substrate; and providing a lid structure over the top side of the substrate and over the electronic device. 18. The method of claim 17, wherein the lid structure comprises a vertical interconnect, and further comprising electrically coupling the vertical interconnect with the conductive structure. 19. The method of claim 17, wherein the substrate is on a base component comprising a vertical interconnect, and further comprising electrically coupling the vertical interconnect with the conductive structure. 20. The method of claim 17, further comprising attaching an external connector to a vertical interconnect in the lid structure or in a base component coupled with the substrate. | 2,800 |
349,340 | 16,806,921 | 2,846 | Aspects of the disclosure provide an apparatus that includes transmitting circuit and processing circuit. The transmitting circuitry is configured to transmit wireless signals. The processing circuitry is configured to encode a set of information bits with a code that is configured for incremental redundancy to generate a code word that includes the information bits and parity bits, buffer the code word in a circular buffer, determine a start position in the circular buffer based on a redundancy version that is selected from a plurality of redundancy versions based on a scenario evaluation of a previous transmission associated with the set of information bits, and transmit, via the transmitting circuitry, a selected portion of the code word from the start position. | 1. An apparatus, comprising:
transmitting circuitry configured to transmit wireless signals; and processing circuitry configured to:
encode a set of information bits according to a low density parity check (LDPC) code and a lifting factor for constructing the LDPC code to generate a code word that includes the set of information bits and parity bits;
buffer the code word in a circular buffer;
determine a start position in the circular buffer based on a redundancy version that is selected from a plurality of redundancy version candidates based on a scenario evaluation of a previous transmission associated with the set of information bits; and
transmit, via the transmitting circuitry, a selected portion of the code word from the start position,
wherein the plurality of redundancy version candidates includes a first redundancy version candidate indicating the start position being determined according to a predetermined position, and the predetermined position is determined according to a number that is proportional to the lifting factor. 2. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein
the plurality of redundancy version candidates further includes a second redundancy version candidate indicating the start position being determined according to repeating a last transmission or continuing from the last transmission. 3. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the processing circuitry is configured to:
puncture a portion of the set of information bits from the code word; and buffer the punctured code word in the circular buffer. 4. The apparatus of claim 1, further comprising:
receiving circuitry configured to receive the redundancy version that is selected by another apparatus. 5. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the processing circuitry is configured to:
determine the start position based on the redundancy version that is indicative of a chase combining scheme. 6. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein
the predetermined position is determined further according to a size of the set of information bits or a size of the code word. 7. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the processing circuitry is configured to:
determine a control channel decoding scenario; and select the redundancy version based on the control channel decoding scenario. 8. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein
the plurality of redundancy version candidates further includes a third redundancy version candidate indicating the start position being a start position of the circular buffer. 9. A method, comprising:
encoding, by processing circuitry of an apparatus, a set of information bits according to a low density parity check (LDPC) code and a lifting factor for constructing the LDPC code to generate a code word that includes the set of information bits and parity bits; buffering the code word in a circular buffer; determining a start position in the circular buffer based on a redundancy version that is selected from a plurality of redundancy version candidates based on a scenario evaluation of a previous transmission associated with the set of information bits; and transmitting, via transmitting circuitry of the apparatus, a selected portion of the code word from the start position, wherein the plurality of redundancy version candidates includes a first redundancy version candidate indicating the start position being determined according to a predetermined position, and the predetermined position is determined according to a number that is proportional to the lifting factor. 10. The method of claim 9, wherein the plurality of redundancy version candidates further includes a second redundancy version candidate indicating the start position being determined according to repeating a last transmission or continuing from the last transmission. 11. The method of claim 9, wherein buffering the code word in the circular buffer further comprises:
puncturing a portion of the set of information bits from the code word; and buffering the punctured code word in the circular buffer. 12. The method of claim 9, further comprising:
receiving the redundancy version that is selected by another apparatus. 13. The method of claim 9, wherein the determining the start position comprises:
determining the start position based on the redundancy version that is indicative of a chase combining scheme. 14. The method of claim 9, wherein
the predetermined position is determined further according to a size of the set of information bits or a size of the code word. 15. The method of claim 9, further comprising:
determining a control channel decoding scenario; and selecting the redundancy version based on the control channel decoding scenario. 16. The method of claim 9, wherein
the plurality of redundancy version candidates further includes a third redundancy version candidate indicating the start position being a start position of the circular buffer. | Aspects of the disclosure provide an apparatus that includes transmitting circuit and processing circuit. The transmitting circuitry is configured to transmit wireless signals. The processing circuitry is configured to encode a set of information bits with a code that is configured for incremental redundancy to generate a code word that includes the information bits and parity bits, buffer the code word in a circular buffer, determine a start position in the circular buffer based on a redundancy version that is selected from a plurality of redundancy versions based on a scenario evaluation of a previous transmission associated with the set of information bits, and transmit, via the transmitting circuitry, a selected portion of the code word from the start position.1. An apparatus, comprising:
transmitting circuitry configured to transmit wireless signals; and processing circuitry configured to:
encode a set of information bits according to a low density parity check (LDPC) code and a lifting factor for constructing the LDPC code to generate a code word that includes the set of information bits and parity bits;
buffer the code word in a circular buffer;
determine a start position in the circular buffer based on a redundancy version that is selected from a plurality of redundancy version candidates based on a scenario evaluation of a previous transmission associated with the set of information bits; and
transmit, via the transmitting circuitry, a selected portion of the code word from the start position,
wherein the plurality of redundancy version candidates includes a first redundancy version candidate indicating the start position being determined according to a predetermined position, and the predetermined position is determined according to a number that is proportional to the lifting factor. 2. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein
the plurality of redundancy version candidates further includes a second redundancy version candidate indicating the start position being determined according to repeating a last transmission or continuing from the last transmission. 3. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the processing circuitry is configured to:
puncture a portion of the set of information bits from the code word; and buffer the punctured code word in the circular buffer. 4. The apparatus of claim 1, further comprising:
receiving circuitry configured to receive the redundancy version that is selected by another apparatus. 5. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the processing circuitry is configured to:
determine the start position based on the redundancy version that is indicative of a chase combining scheme. 6. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein
the predetermined position is determined further according to a size of the set of information bits or a size of the code word. 7. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the processing circuitry is configured to:
determine a control channel decoding scenario; and select the redundancy version based on the control channel decoding scenario. 8. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein
the plurality of redundancy version candidates further includes a third redundancy version candidate indicating the start position being a start position of the circular buffer. 9. A method, comprising:
encoding, by processing circuitry of an apparatus, a set of information bits according to a low density parity check (LDPC) code and a lifting factor for constructing the LDPC code to generate a code word that includes the set of information bits and parity bits; buffering the code word in a circular buffer; determining a start position in the circular buffer based on a redundancy version that is selected from a plurality of redundancy version candidates based on a scenario evaluation of a previous transmission associated with the set of information bits; and transmitting, via transmitting circuitry of the apparatus, a selected portion of the code word from the start position, wherein the plurality of redundancy version candidates includes a first redundancy version candidate indicating the start position being determined according to a predetermined position, and the predetermined position is determined according to a number that is proportional to the lifting factor. 10. The method of claim 9, wherein the plurality of redundancy version candidates further includes a second redundancy version candidate indicating the start position being determined according to repeating a last transmission or continuing from the last transmission. 11. The method of claim 9, wherein buffering the code word in the circular buffer further comprises:
puncturing a portion of the set of information bits from the code word; and buffering the punctured code word in the circular buffer. 12. The method of claim 9, further comprising:
receiving the redundancy version that is selected by another apparatus. 13. The method of claim 9, wherein the determining the start position comprises:
determining the start position based on the redundancy version that is indicative of a chase combining scheme. 14. The method of claim 9, wherein
the predetermined position is determined further according to a size of the set of information bits or a size of the code word. 15. The method of claim 9, further comprising:
determining a control channel decoding scenario; and selecting the redundancy version based on the control channel decoding scenario. 16. The method of claim 9, wherein
the plurality of redundancy version candidates further includes a third redundancy version candidate indicating the start position being a start position of the circular buffer. | 2,800 |
349,341 | 16,806,924 | 2,846 | A magnetic bottle brush that has a handle with an upper portion and a lower portion and a brush head attached to the upper portion of the handle. A magnetic element is disposed in the lower portion of the handle that exerts a magnetic attraction force between the magnetic bottle brush and an accompanying magnetic base. | 1. A magnetic bottle brush, comprising:
a handle with an upper portion and a lower portion; a brush head attached to the upper portion of the handle; and a magnetic element disposed in the lower portion of the handle that exerts a magnetic attraction force. 2. The magnetic bottle brush of claim 1, further comprising a magnet housing encasing the magnetic element. 3. The magnetic bottle brush of claim 2, wherein the magnet housing has an alignment shaft that orients and secures the magnetic element contained therein. 4. The magnetic bottle brush of claim 1, wherein the magnetic element is a magnet. 5. The magnetic bottle brush of claim 1, wherein the magnetic element is a ferromagnetic material. 6. The magnetic bottle brush of claim 1, further comprising a magnetic base that attaches to the magnetic bottle brush through the magnetic attraction force. 7. The magnetic bottle brush of claim 6, wherein the magnetic base has a liquid run-off channel disposed on the magnetic base. 8. The magnetic bottle brush of claim 1, wherein the handle has a grip depression on the handle to provide leverage. 9. The magnetic bottle brush of claim 1, further comprising a detachable nipple brush that is stored in the handle and contains the magnetic element. 10. The magnetic bottle brush of claim 9, wherein the magnetic element additionally attaches the detachable nipple brush to the handle. 11. A magnetic bottle brush assembly, comprising:
a bottle brush having:
a handle with an upper portion and a lower portion;
a brush head attached to the upper portion of the handle; and
a first magnetic element disposed in the lower portion of the handle; and
a magnetic base with a second magnetic element disposed therein, wherein a magnetic attraction force is generated to attract the first magnetic element of the bottle brush to the magnetic base. 12. The magnetic bottle brush assembly of claim 11 further comprising a magnet housing encasing the magnetic element. 13. The magnetic bottle brush assembly of claim 11, wherein the magnetic base further comprises a magnetic attachment surface embedded in a housing. 14. The magnetic bottle brush assembly of claim 13, wherein the housing is made of silicone. 15. The magnetic bottle brush assembly of claim 11, wherein the magnetic base has a fastener for securing the magnetic base to a surface. 16. A magnetic bottle brush assembly, comprising:
a bottle brush having:
a handle with an upper portion and a lower portion;
a brush head attached to the upper portion of the handle; and
a first magnetic element disposed in the lower portion of the handle;
a magnetic base having:
a housing; and
a second magnetic element disposed in the housing;
wherein a magnetic attraction force between the first and second magnetic elements attach the magnetic bottle brush to the magnetic base. 17. The magnetic bottle brush assembly of claim 16, further comprising a magnet housing that encases the first magnet element. 18. The magnetic bottle brush assembly of claim 16, wherein the magnetic attraction force generated by the magnet supports the bottle brush in a horizontal position when attached to the magnetic base. 19. The magnetic bottle brush assembly of claim 16, wherein the attachment between the brush head and handle is magnetic and a second point of attachment for securing the bottle brush magnetically. 20. The magnetic bottle brush assembly of claim 16, wherein the magnetic base housing is silicone with a ferromagnetic material embedded therein. | A magnetic bottle brush that has a handle with an upper portion and a lower portion and a brush head attached to the upper portion of the handle. A magnetic element is disposed in the lower portion of the handle that exerts a magnetic attraction force between the magnetic bottle brush and an accompanying magnetic base.1. A magnetic bottle brush, comprising:
a handle with an upper portion and a lower portion; a brush head attached to the upper portion of the handle; and a magnetic element disposed in the lower portion of the handle that exerts a magnetic attraction force. 2. The magnetic bottle brush of claim 1, further comprising a magnet housing encasing the magnetic element. 3. The magnetic bottle brush of claim 2, wherein the magnet housing has an alignment shaft that orients and secures the magnetic element contained therein. 4. The magnetic bottle brush of claim 1, wherein the magnetic element is a magnet. 5. The magnetic bottle brush of claim 1, wherein the magnetic element is a ferromagnetic material. 6. The magnetic bottle brush of claim 1, further comprising a magnetic base that attaches to the magnetic bottle brush through the magnetic attraction force. 7. The magnetic bottle brush of claim 6, wherein the magnetic base has a liquid run-off channel disposed on the magnetic base. 8. The magnetic bottle brush of claim 1, wherein the handle has a grip depression on the handle to provide leverage. 9. The magnetic bottle brush of claim 1, further comprising a detachable nipple brush that is stored in the handle and contains the magnetic element. 10. The magnetic bottle brush of claim 9, wherein the magnetic element additionally attaches the detachable nipple brush to the handle. 11. A magnetic bottle brush assembly, comprising:
a bottle brush having:
a handle with an upper portion and a lower portion;
a brush head attached to the upper portion of the handle; and
a first magnetic element disposed in the lower portion of the handle; and
a magnetic base with a second magnetic element disposed therein, wherein a magnetic attraction force is generated to attract the first magnetic element of the bottle brush to the magnetic base. 12. The magnetic bottle brush assembly of claim 11 further comprising a magnet housing encasing the magnetic element. 13. The magnetic bottle brush assembly of claim 11, wherein the magnetic base further comprises a magnetic attachment surface embedded in a housing. 14. The magnetic bottle brush assembly of claim 13, wherein the housing is made of silicone. 15. The magnetic bottle brush assembly of claim 11, wherein the magnetic base has a fastener for securing the magnetic base to a surface. 16. A magnetic bottle brush assembly, comprising:
a bottle brush having:
a handle with an upper portion and a lower portion;
a brush head attached to the upper portion of the handle; and
a first magnetic element disposed in the lower portion of the handle;
a magnetic base having:
a housing; and
a second magnetic element disposed in the housing;
wherein a magnetic attraction force between the first and second magnetic elements attach the magnetic bottle brush to the magnetic base. 17. The magnetic bottle brush assembly of claim 16, further comprising a magnet housing that encases the first magnet element. 18. The magnetic bottle brush assembly of claim 16, wherein the magnetic attraction force generated by the magnet supports the bottle brush in a horizontal position when attached to the magnetic base. 19. The magnetic bottle brush assembly of claim 16, wherein the attachment between the brush head and handle is magnetic and a second point of attachment for securing the bottle brush magnetically. 20. The magnetic bottle brush assembly of claim 16, wherein the magnetic base housing is silicone with a ferromagnetic material embedded therein. | 2,800 |
349,342 | 16,806,904 | 2,846 | Settling devices for separating particles from a bulk fluid with applications in numerous fields. The particle settling devices include a first stack of cones with a small opening oriented upwardly or downwardly. Optionally, the settling devices may include a second stack of cones with a small opening oriented downwardly or upwardly. The cones may be concave or convex. These devices are useful for separating small (millimeter or micron sized) particles from a bulk fluid with applications in numerous fields, such as biological (microbial, mammalian, plant, insect or algal) cell cultures, solid catalyst particle separation from a liquid or gas and waste water treatment. | 1. A settling device operable for use in the production of biological proteins, polypeptides or hormones, the settling device comprising:
an upper portion with at least one port; a cylindrical portion; a lower portion with at least one port; a stack of cones located within the settling device, each cone of the stack of cones including a first opening and a second opening that is larger than the first opening, each of the first openings oriented towards one of the upper portion and the lower portion, the stack of cones generally centered around a longitudinal axis of the settling device. 2. The settling device of claim 1, wherein at least one cone of the stack of cones is comprised of a plastic and the settling device is disposable. 3. The settling device of claim 1, wherein the settling device further comprises a first flange engaged with a second flange. 4. The settling device of claim 1, wherein an interior surface of each cone of the stack of cones is oriented at an angle of between approximately 5 degrees to about 85 degrees relative to the longitudinal axis. 5. The settling device of claim 1, wherein the lower portion tapers along an arcuate path from a maximum diameter proximate to the cylindrical portion to a minimum diameter at a lower end. 6. The settling device of claim 1, wherein the at least one port of the lower portion comprises:
a first port that is aligned substantially concentrically with the longitudinal axis; and a second port that is offset from the longitudinal axis, wherein a diffuser is interconnected to the second port. 7. The settling device of claim 1, wherein an interior surface of each cone has a first radius of curvature proximate to the first opening and a second radius of curvature proximate to the second opening, wherein the second radius of curvature is different than the first radius of curvature. 8. The settling device of claim 1, further comprising a diffuser positioned within the settling device, the diffuser including a stem interconnected to a port of the at least one port of the lower portion and a ring extending from the stem. 9. The settling device of claim 8, wherein at least one of the cones is provided in contact with the diffuser and the stack of cones is supported by the diffuser. 10. The settling device of claim 1, wherein the first opening of each cone of the stack of cones is oriented toward the upper portion. 11. The settling device of claim 1, further comprising a fluorescent probe to measure at least one of pH, dissolved oxygen, and dissolved CO2 within the settling device. 12. The settling device of claim 1, further comprising a conduit interconnected to a port of the at least one port of the upper portion, the conduit including a free end positioned within an interior of an upper cone of the stack of cones. 13. A method of settling particles in a suspension, comprising:
introducing a liquid suspension of particles into a settling device which includes:
an upper portion with an upper port;
a cylindrical portion;
a lower portion with a first lower port and a second lower port;
a stack of cones located within the settling device, each cone of the stack of cones including a body with a first opening and a second opening that is larger than the first opening, each of the first openings oriented towards one of the upper portion and the lower portion, the stack of cones generally centered around a longitudinal axis of the settling device; and
collecting a clarified liquid from the upper port; and collecting a concentrated liquid suspension from the first lower port. 14. The method of claim 13, wherein the liquid suspension comprises at least one of a recombinant cell suspension, an alcoholic fermentation, a suspension of solid catalyst particles, a municipal waste water, industrial waste water, mammalian cells, bacterial cells, yeast cells, plant cells, algae cells, plant cells, mammalian cells, murine hybridoma cells, stem cells, CAR-T cells, red blood precursor and mature cells, cardiomyocytes, yeast in beer, and eukaryotic cells. 15. The method of claim 13, wherein the liquid suspension comprises at least one of:
(a) recombinant microbial cells selected from at least one of Pichia pastoris, Saccharomyces cerevisiae, Kluyveromyces lactis, Aspergillus niger, Escherichia coli, and Bacillus subtilis; and (b) one or more of microcarrier beads, affinity ligands, and surface activated microspherical beads. 16. The method of claim 13, wherein introducing a liquid suspension comprises directing the liquid suspension from a plastic disposable bioreactor bag into the settling device. 17. The method of claim 13, wherein the clarified liquid collected comprises at least one of biological molecules, organic or inorganic compounds, chemical reactants, and chemical reaction products. 18. The method of claim 13, wherein the clarified liquid collected comprises at least one of hydrocarbons, polypeptides, proteins, alcohols, fatty acids, hormones, carbohydrates, antibodies, glycoproteins, terpenes, isoprenoids, polyprenoids, and beer. 19. The method of claim 13, wherein the clarified liquid collected comprises at least one of biodiesel, insulin, brazzein, antibodies, growth factors, colony stimulating factors, and erythropoietin (EPO). 20. The method of claim 13, wherein introducing a liquid suspension of particles into the settling device comprises pumping the liquid suspension through the second lower port of the lower portion and through an aperture formed in a ring of a diffuser positioned within the settling device, the diffuser including a stem interconnected to the second lower port. | Settling devices for separating particles from a bulk fluid with applications in numerous fields. The particle settling devices include a first stack of cones with a small opening oriented upwardly or downwardly. Optionally, the settling devices may include a second stack of cones with a small opening oriented downwardly or upwardly. The cones may be concave or convex. These devices are useful for separating small (millimeter or micron sized) particles from a bulk fluid with applications in numerous fields, such as biological (microbial, mammalian, plant, insect or algal) cell cultures, solid catalyst particle separation from a liquid or gas and waste water treatment.1. A settling device operable for use in the production of biological proteins, polypeptides or hormones, the settling device comprising:
an upper portion with at least one port; a cylindrical portion; a lower portion with at least one port; a stack of cones located within the settling device, each cone of the stack of cones including a first opening and a second opening that is larger than the first opening, each of the first openings oriented towards one of the upper portion and the lower portion, the stack of cones generally centered around a longitudinal axis of the settling device. 2. The settling device of claim 1, wherein at least one cone of the stack of cones is comprised of a plastic and the settling device is disposable. 3. The settling device of claim 1, wherein the settling device further comprises a first flange engaged with a second flange. 4. The settling device of claim 1, wherein an interior surface of each cone of the stack of cones is oriented at an angle of between approximately 5 degrees to about 85 degrees relative to the longitudinal axis. 5. The settling device of claim 1, wherein the lower portion tapers along an arcuate path from a maximum diameter proximate to the cylindrical portion to a minimum diameter at a lower end. 6. The settling device of claim 1, wherein the at least one port of the lower portion comprises:
a first port that is aligned substantially concentrically with the longitudinal axis; and a second port that is offset from the longitudinal axis, wherein a diffuser is interconnected to the second port. 7. The settling device of claim 1, wherein an interior surface of each cone has a first radius of curvature proximate to the first opening and a second radius of curvature proximate to the second opening, wherein the second radius of curvature is different than the first radius of curvature. 8. The settling device of claim 1, further comprising a diffuser positioned within the settling device, the diffuser including a stem interconnected to a port of the at least one port of the lower portion and a ring extending from the stem. 9. The settling device of claim 8, wherein at least one of the cones is provided in contact with the diffuser and the stack of cones is supported by the diffuser. 10. The settling device of claim 1, wherein the first opening of each cone of the stack of cones is oriented toward the upper portion. 11. The settling device of claim 1, further comprising a fluorescent probe to measure at least one of pH, dissolved oxygen, and dissolved CO2 within the settling device. 12. The settling device of claim 1, further comprising a conduit interconnected to a port of the at least one port of the upper portion, the conduit including a free end positioned within an interior of an upper cone of the stack of cones. 13. A method of settling particles in a suspension, comprising:
introducing a liquid suspension of particles into a settling device which includes:
an upper portion with an upper port;
a cylindrical portion;
a lower portion with a first lower port and a second lower port;
a stack of cones located within the settling device, each cone of the stack of cones including a body with a first opening and a second opening that is larger than the first opening, each of the first openings oriented towards one of the upper portion and the lower portion, the stack of cones generally centered around a longitudinal axis of the settling device; and
collecting a clarified liquid from the upper port; and collecting a concentrated liquid suspension from the first lower port. 14. The method of claim 13, wherein the liquid suspension comprises at least one of a recombinant cell suspension, an alcoholic fermentation, a suspension of solid catalyst particles, a municipal waste water, industrial waste water, mammalian cells, bacterial cells, yeast cells, plant cells, algae cells, plant cells, mammalian cells, murine hybridoma cells, stem cells, CAR-T cells, red blood precursor and mature cells, cardiomyocytes, yeast in beer, and eukaryotic cells. 15. The method of claim 13, wherein the liquid suspension comprises at least one of:
(a) recombinant microbial cells selected from at least one of Pichia pastoris, Saccharomyces cerevisiae, Kluyveromyces lactis, Aspergillus niger, Escherichia coli, and Bacillus subtilis; and (b) one or more of microcarrier beads, affinity ligands, and surface activated microspherical beads. 16. The method of claim 13, wherein introducing a liquid suspension comprises directing the liquid suspension from a plastic disposable bioreactor bag into the settling device. 17. The method of claim 13, wherein the clarified liquid collected comprises at least one of biological molecules, organic or inorganic compounds, chemical reactants, and chemical reaction products. 18. The method of claim 13, wherein the clarified liquid collected comprises at least one of hydrocarbons, polypeptides, proteins, alcohols, fatty acids, hormones, carbohydrates, antibodies, glycoproteins, terpenes, isoprenoids, polyprenoids, and beer. 19. The method of claim 13, wherein the clarified liquid collected comprises at least one of biodiesel, insulin, brazzein, antibodies, growth factors, colony stimulating factors, and erythropoietin (EPO). 20. The method of claim 13, wherein introducing a liquid suspension of particles into the settling device comprises pumping the liquid suspension through the second lower port of the lower portion and through an aperture formed in a ring of a diffuser positioned within the settling device, the diffuser including a stem interconnected to the second lower port. | 2,800 |
349,343 | 16,806,912 | 2,846 | A working machine including a machine body having an operator cab, a ground engaging propulsion structure to permit movement of the machine over the ground, a load handling apparatus coupled to the machine body and moveable by a movement actuator with respect to the machine body, and an electric energy storage unit for providing power to the working machine. The working machine includes a longitudinal axis, wherein the operator cab is positioned towards a first side of the working machine with respect to the longitudinal axis, and the electric energy storage unit is positioned towards a second side of the working machine with respect to the longitudinal axis, wherein the first and second sides are located opposite each other. | 1. A working machine comprising:
a machine body having an operator cab, a ground engaging propulsion structure to permit movement of the machine over the ground, a load handling apparatus coupled to the machine body and moveable by a movement actuator with respect to the machine body, and an electric energy storage unit for providing power to the working machine,
wherein the working machine comprises a longitudinal axis, wherein the operator cab is positioned towards a first side of the working machine with respect to the longitudinal axis, and the electric energy storage unit is positioned towards a second side of the working machine with respect to the longitudinal axis, wherein the first and second sides are located opposite each other. 2. The working machine according to claim 1, wherein the electric energy storage unit is positioned at a location on the working machine to provide a counterweight to operator cab, relative to the longitudinal axis. 3. The working machine according to claim 1, wherein the ground engaging propulsion structure comprises a front axle and a rear axle supporting the machine body. 4. The working machine according to claim 3, wherein the electric energy storage unit is positioned between the front and rear axles, e.g. the electric energy storage unit does not extend beyond the front and/or rear axles in a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis; and/or wherein the operator cab is positioned between the front and rear axles, e.g. the operator cab does not extend beyond the front and/or rear axles in a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis. 5. The working machine according to claim 3, wherein the operator cab has a fixed angular orientation with respect to the front and/or rear axles. 6. The working machine according to claim 1, wherein the machine body comprises a base and the electric energy storage unit is located at or above the base, when the working machine is situated on flat ground. 7. The working machine according to claim 1, wherein the working machine comprises an electric drive motor configured to drive a driveshaft of the working machine, wherein the drive motor is located such that a longitudinal axis of a transmission of the motor is provided parallel to the driveshaft. 8. The working machine according to claim 7, wherein the drive motor is positioned between the electric energy storage unit and the operator cab. 9. The working machine according to claim 1, wherein the working machine comprises a hydraulic motor configured to actuate the load handling apparatus. 10. The working machine according to claim 1, wherein the electric energy storage unit comprises at least one electric energy storage module; wherein the working machine comprises a mount for at least a first electric energy storage module and a second electric energy storage module, the machine being operable with at least one of the first and second electric storage modules present. 11. The working machine according to claim 10, wherein the first and/or second electric energy storage modules are configured to be removable from the mount and replaceable, such that the first and/or second electric energy storage modules are interchangeable; wherein the first and/or second electric energy storage modules comprise a connector to connect the respective electric energy storage module to the working machine, e.g. a quick release connector. 12. The working machine according to claim 10, wherein the mount is configured to receive a ballast module in place of the first or second electric storage module, optionally wherein the ballast module comprises a connector, e.g. a quick release connector, to connect the ballast module to the working machine. 13. The working machine according to claim 1, wherein the electric energy storage unit (e.g. a first and/or second electric energy storage module) is selected based on an intended use of the working machine. 14. The working machine according to claim 1, wherein the working machine comprises a controller configured to:
receive or acquire information representative of an attribute of said electric energy storage unit; determine permitted and/or prohibited operations of the working machine based on the received or acquired information; and issue an operations signal for use by at least one element of the working machine corresponding to the determined permitted and/or prohibited operations. 15. The working machine according to claim 14, wherein the controller is configured to receive or acquire information representative of the weight and/or position of the electric energy storage unit. 16. The working machine according to claim 14, wherein the working machine includes a sensor configured to determine information representative of an attribute of the electric energy storage module and transmit this information to the controller, optionally wherein the sensor is a load sensor and the information is representative of the weight and/or position of the at least one electric energy storage module. 17. The working machine according to claim 14, wherein the controller is configured to acquire information indicative of the attribute of the at least one electric energy storage module directly from the at least one electric energy storage module. 18. The working machine according to claim 14, wherein the controller includes a machine stabilization decision logic, configured to maintain stability of the working machine, wherein information representative of the weight and/or position attribute(s) of the at least one electric energy storage module is an input to the stabilization decision logic, and wherein the determined permitted and/or prohibited operations of the working machine are determined based on the stabilization decision logic. 19. The working machine according to claim 18, wherein the stabilization decision logic is configured such that the permitted load of the load handling apparatus and/or the permitted lift height of the load handling apparatus is dependent on the attribute of said electric energy storage unit (e.g. weight). 20. The working machine according to claim 19, wherein the permitted load of the load handling apparatus and/or the permitted lift height of the load handling apparatus is lower for a lower weight of electric energy storage unit present, and is higher for a higher weight of electric energy storage unit present. | A working machine including a machine body having an operator cab, a ground engaging propulsion structure to permit movement of the machine over the ground, a load handling apparatus coupled to the machine body and moveable by a movement actuator with respect to the machine body, and an electric energy storage unit for providing power to the working machine. The working machine includes a longitudinal axis, wherein the operator cab is positioned towards a first side of the working machine with respect to the longitudinal axis, and the electric energy storage unit is positioned towards a second side of the working machine with respect to the longitudinal axis, wherein the first and second sides are located opposite each other.1. A working machine comprising:
a machine body having an operator cab, a ground engaging propulsion structure to permit movement of the machine over the ground, a load handling apparatus coupled to the machine body and moveable by a movement actuator with respect to the machine body, and an electric energy storage unit for providing power to the working machine,
wherein the working machine comprises a longitudinal axis, wherein the operator cab is positioned towards a first side of the working machine with respect to the longitudinal axis, and the electric energy storage unit is positioned towards a second side of the working machine with respect to the longitudinal axis, wherein the first and second sides are located opposite each other. 2. The working machine according to claim 1, wherein the electric energy storage unit is positioned at a location on the working machine to provide a counterweight to operator cab, relative to the longitudinal axis. 3. The working machine according to claim 1, wherein the ground engaging propulsion structure comprises a front axle and a rear axle supporting the machine body. 4. The working machine according to claim 3, wherein the electric energy storage unit is positioned between the front and rear axles, e.g. the electric energy storage unit does not extend beyond the front and/or rear axles in a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis; and/or wherein the operator cab is positioned between the front and rear axles, e.g. the operator cab does not extend beyond the front and/or rear axles in a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis. 5. The working machine according to claim 3, wherein the operator cab has a fixed angular orientation with respect to the front and/or rear axles. 6. The working machine according to claim 1, wherein the machine body comprises a base and the electric energy storage unit is located at or above the base, when the working machine is situated on flat ground. 7. The working machine according to claim 1, wherein the working machine comprises an electric drive motor configured to drive a driveshaft of the working machine, wherein the drive motor is located such that a longitudinal axis of a transmission of the motor is provided parallel to the driveshaft. 8. The working machine according to claim 7, wherein the drive motor is positioned between the electric energy storage unit and the operator cab. 9. The working machine according to claim 1, wherein the working machine comprises a hydraulic motor configured to actuate the load handling apparatus. 10. The working machine according to claim 1, wherein the electric energy storage unit comprises at least one electric energy storage module; wherein the working machine comprises a mount for at least a first electric energy storage module and a second electric energy storage module, the machine being operable with at least one of the first and second electric storage modules present. 11. The working machine according to claim 10, wherein the first and/or second electric energy storage modules are configured to be removable from the mount and replaceable, such that the first and/or second electric energy storage modules are interchangeable; wherein the first and/or second electric energy storage modules comprise a connector to connect the respective electric energy storage module to the working machine, e.g. a quick release connector. 12. The working machine according to claim 10, wherein the mount is configured to receive a ballast module in place of the first or second electric storage module, optionally wherein the ballast module comprises a connector, e.g. a quick release connector, to connect the ballast module to the working machine. 13. The working machine according to claim 1, wherein the electric energy storage unit (e.g. a first and/or second electric energy storage module) is selected based on an intended use of the working machine. 14. The working machine according to claim 1, wherein the working machine comprises a controller configured to:
receive or acquire information representative of an attribute of said electric energy storage unit; determine permitted and/or prohibited operations of the working machine based on the received or acquired information; and issue an operations signal for use by at least one element of the working machine corresponding to the determined permitted and/or prohibited operations. 15. The working machine according to claim 14, wherein the controller is configured to receive or acquire information representative of the weight and/or position of the electric energy storage unit. 16. The working machine according to claim 14, wherein the working machine includes a sensor configured to determine information representative of an attribute of the electric energy storage module and transmit this information to the controller, optionally wherein the sensor is a load sensor and the information is representative of the weight and/or position of the at least one electric energy storage module. 17. The working machine according to claim 14, wherein the controller is configured to acquire information indicative of the attribute of the at least one electric energy storage module directly from the at least one electric energy storage module. 18. The working machine according to claim 14, wherein the controller includes a machine stabilization decision logic, configured to maintain stability of the working machine, wherein information representative of the weight and/or position attribute(s) of the at least one electric energy storage module is an input to the stabilization decision logic, and wherein the determined permitted and/or prohibited operations of the working machine are determined based on the stabilization decision logic. 19. The working machine according to claim 18, wherein the stabilization decision logic is configured such that the permitted load of the load handling apparatus and/or the permitted lift height of the load handling apparatus is dependent on the attribute of said electric energy storage unit (e.g. weight). 20. The working machine according to claim 19, wherein the permitted load of the load handling apparatus and/or the permitted lift height of the load handling apparatus is lower for a lower weight of electric energy storage unit present, and is higher for a higher weight of electric energy storage unit present. | 2,800 |
349,344 | 16,806,947 | 2,846 | An optical display comprises: a first waveguide comprising a first surface and a second surface, an input coupler, a fold grating, and an output grating. The input coupler receives collimated first wavelength light from an Input Image Node causes the light to travel within the first waveguide via total internal reflection between the first surface and the second surface to the fold grating. The fold grating provides pupil expansion in a first direction directs the light to the output grating via total internal reflection between the first surface and the second surface. The output grating provides pupil expansion in a second direction different than the first direction and causes the light to exit the first waveguide from the first surface or the second surface. At least one of the input coupler, fold grating and output grating is a rolled k-vector grating, and the fold grating is a dual interaction grating. | 1. An optical display, comprising:
a first waveguide having a first surface and a second surface; an input coupler; a fold grating; an output grating; and an input image node (IIN), wherein said input coupler is configured to receive collimated first wavelength image modulated light from said IIN and to cause said first wavelength image modulated light to travel within the first waveguide via total internal reflection between said first surface and said second surface to the fold grating; wherein said fold grating is configured to provide pupil expansion in a first direction and to direct said first wavelength image modulated light to the output grating via total internal reflection between the first surface and the second surface; wherein said output grating is configured to provide pupil expansion in a second direction different than said first direction and to cause said first wavelength image modulated light to exit said first waveguide from said first surface or said second surface; wherein said first wavelength image modulated light undergoes a dual interaction with said fold grating; and wherein at least one selected from the group of said input coupler, said fold grating, and said output grating is a grating switchable between a diffracting and a non-diffracting state. 2. The optical display of claim 1, wherein said IIN comprises a light source, a microdisplay for displaying image pixels and collimation optics, and wherein said IIN projects the image displayed on said microdisplay such that each image pixel is converted into a unique angular direction within said first waveguide. 3. The optical display of claim 1, further comprising a second waveguide comprising a first surface and a second surface, an input coupler, a fold grating, and an output grating, wherein the input coupler of the second waveguide is configured to receive collimated second wavelength image modulated light from said IIN. 4. The optical display of claim 1, wherein each of said input coupler, said fold grating, and said output grating is a grating selected from the group of a grating recorded in a liquid crystal and polymer material system. a Bragg grating, a switchable Bragg grating, a grating recorded in a liquid crystal and polymer material system and a surface relief grating. 5. The optical display of claim 1, wherein said input coupler is a grating or a prism. 6. The optical display of claim 1, wherein said first direction is orthogonal to said second direction. 7. The optical display of claim 1, wherein said first waveguide further comprises a first optical interface; and said IIN further comprises a second optical interface, wherein said first and second optical interface can be decoupled by one of a mechanical mechanism or a magnetic mechanism. 8. The optical display of claim 1, wherein at least one of said input coupler, said fold grating, or said output grating is a rolled k-vector grating. 9. The optical display of claim 1, wherein said first surface and said second surface are curved. 10. The optical display of claim 1, wherein said IIN comprises a laser scanner for projecting image modulated first wavelength light over an angular range. 11. The optical display of claim 1, wherein said optical display provides one of a HMD, a HUD, an eye-slaved display, a dynamic focus display or a light field display. 12. The optical display of claim 1, wherein at least one of said input coupler, fold grating and output grating multiplexes at least one of color or angle. 13. The optical display of claim 1, further comprising at least one selected from the group of:
an eye tracker, a dynamic focus lens disposed within said IIN, a dynamic focus lens disposed in proximity to the first set of surfaces of the first waveguide, a beam homogenizer, a quarter wave plate applied to a surface of said waveguide, and at least one gradient index image transfer waveguide portion. 14. The optical display of claim 3, further comprising a dichroic filter disposed between the input coupler regions of said first and second waveguides. 15. The optical display of claim 1 wherein said IIN further comprises a spatially varying numerical aperture component for providing a numerical aperture variation along at least one direction. 16. The optical display of claim 15 wherein said spatially varying numerical aperture component has at least one characteristic selected from the group of diffractive, birefringent, refracting and scattering. 17. The optical display of claim 1, wherein said IIN further comprises at least one diffractive optical element. 18. The optical display of claim 1, wherein said waveguide includes at least one plastic substrate. 19. The optical display of claim 1, wherein at least one said grating has spatially varying characteristics. 20. The optical display of claim 1 integrated within a window. | An optical display comprises: a first waveguide comprising a first surface and a second surface, an input coupler, a fold grating, and an output grating. The input coupler receives collimated first wavelength light from an Input Image Node causes the light to travel within the first waveguide via total internal reflection between the first surface and the second surface to the fold grating. The fold grating provides pupil expansion in a first direction directs the light to the output grating via total internal reflection between the first surface and the second surface. The output grating provides pupil expansion in a second direction different than the first direction and causes the light to exit the first waveguide from the first surface or the second surface. At least one of the input coupler, fold grating and output grating is a rolled k-vector grating, and the fold grating is a dual interaction grating.1. An optical display, comprising:
a first waveguide having a first surface and a second surface; an input coupler; a fold grating; an output grating; and an input image node (IIN), wherein said input coupler is configured to receive collimated first wavelength image modulated light from said IIN and to cause said first wavelength image modulated light to travel within the first waveguide via total internal reflection between said first surface and said second surface to the fold grating; wherein said fold grating is configured to provide pupil expansion in a first direction and to direct said first wavelength image modulated light to the output grating via total internal reflection between the first surface and the second surface; wherein said output grating is configured to provide pupil expansion in a second direction different than said first direction and to cause said first wavelength image modulated light to exit said first waveguide from said first surface or said second surface; wherein said first wavelength image modulated light undergoes a dual interaction with said fold grating; and wherein at least one selected from the group of said input coupler, said fold grating, and said output grating is a grating switchable between a diffracting and a non-diffracting state. 2. The optical display of claim 1, wherein said IIN comprises a light source, a microdisplay for displaying image pixels and collimation optics, and wherein said IIN projects the image displayed on said microdisplay such that each image pixel is converted into a unique angular direction within said first waveguide. 3. The optical display of claim 1, further comprising a second waveguide comprising a first surface and a second surface, an input coupler, a fold grating, and an output grating, wherein the input coupler of the second waveguide is configured to receive collimated second wavelength image modulated light from said IIN. 4. The optical display of claim 1, wherein each of said input coupler, said fold grating, and said output grating is a grating selected from the group of a grating recorded in a liquid crystal and polymer material system. a Bragg grating, a switchable Bragg grating, a grating recorded in a liquid crystal and polymer material system and a surface relief grating. 5. The optical display of claim 1, wherein said input coupler is a grating or a prism. 6. The optical display of claim 1, wherein said first direction is orthogonal to said second direction. 7. The optical display of claim 1, wherein said first waveguide further comprises a first optical interface; and said IIN further comprises a second optical interface, wherein said first and second optical interface can be decoupled by one of a mechanical mechanism or a magnetic mechanism. 8. The optical display of claim 1, wherein at least one of said input coupler, said fold grating, or said output grating is a rolled k-vector grating. 9. The optical display of claim 1, wherein said first surface and said second surface are curved. 10. The optical display of claim 1, wherein said IIN comprises a laser scanner for projecting image modulated first wavelength light over an angular range. 11. The optical display of claim 1, wherein said optical display provides one of a HMD, a HUD, an eye-slaved display, a dynamic focus display or a light field display. 12. The optical display of claim 1, wherein at least one of said input coupler, fold grating and output grating multiplexes at least one of color or angle. 13. The optical display of claim 1, further comprising at least one selected from the group of:
an eye tracker, a dynamic focus lens disposed within said IIN, a dynamic focus lens disposed in proximity to the first set of surfaces of the first waveguide, a beam homogenizer, a quarter wave plate applied to a surface of said waveguide, and at least one gradient index image transfer waveguide portion. 14. The optical display of claim 3, further comprising a dichroic filter disposed between the input coupler regions of said first and second waveguides. 15. The optical display of claim 1 wherein said IIN further comprises a spatially varying numerical aperture component for providing a numerical aperture variation along at least one direction. 16. The optical display of claim 15 wherein said spatially varying numerical aperture component has at least one characteristic selected from the group of diffractive, birefringent, refracting and scattering. 17. The optical display of claim 1, wherein said IIN further comprises at least one diffractive optical element. 18. The optical display of claim 1, wherein said waveguide includes at least one plastic substrate. 19. The optical display of claim 1, wherein at least one said grating has spatially varying characteristics. 20. The optical display of claim 1 integrated within a window. | 2,800 |
349,345 | 16,806,933 | 2,846 | There is described a device for switching communications comprising a circuit board as well as first, second, and third antennas. The first antenna is coupled to the circuit board, and the first antenna is focused on a first direction and based on a first wireless technology. The second antenna is coupled to the circuit board, and the second antenna is focused on a second direction and based on the first wireless technology, in which the second direction is different from the first direction. The third antenna is coupled to the circuit board, and the third antenna is focused on a third direction and based on a second wireless technology, in which the second wireless technology is different from the first wireless technology. The second antenna may operate as a shield for the third antenna. | 1. A device for switching communications comprising:
a circuit board; a first antenna coupled to the circuit board, the first antenna being focused on a first direction and based on a first wireless technology; a second antenna coupled to the circuit board, the second antenna being focused on a second direction and based on the first wireless technology, the second direction being different from the first direction; and a third antenna coupled to the circuit board, the third antenna being focused on a third direction and based on a second wireless technology, the second wireless technology being different from the first wireless technology, wherein the second antenna may operate as a shield for the third antenna. 2. The device as described in claim 1, wherein the first and second directions are substantially orthogonal. 3. The device as described in claim 2, wherein the first direction is substantially parallel to a planar surface of the circuit board and the second direction is substantially orthogonal to the planar surface of the circuit board. 4. The device as described in claim 1, further comprising a sensor is positioned at an edge of the circuit board and extending laterally beyond a planar surface of the circuit board. 5. The device as described in claim 4, wherein the circuit board include a cutout portion at the edge to receive an outer profile of the sensor. 6. The device as described in claim 1, wherein the circuit board includes a circuit configured to switch operation of the first wireless technology between the first antenna and the second antenna based on a performance of the first and second antennas. 7. The device as described in claim 6, wherein the circuit switches operation of the first wireless technology between the first antenna and the second antenna based on a packet error rate associated with the performance of the first and second antennas. 8. The device as described in claim 1, wherein the circuit is configured to switch the second antenna between an active operation states and a passive ground state. 9. The device as described in claim 1, wherein the circuit is configured to switch the second antenna between focusing on the second direction and operating as the shield for the third antenna. 10. The device as described in claim 1, wherein the first antenna is located at the circuit board and the second antenna is offset, but coupled to, the circuit board. 11. A method of a device for switching communications, the method comprising:
controlling, by a circuit, operation of a first antenna, a second antenna, and a third antenna; switching, by the circuit, operation of the first wireless technology between the first antenna to the second antenna based on a performance of the first and second antennas; switching, by the circuit, state of the second antenna between an active operation state and a passive ground state based on an operation state of the third antenna; and maintaining, by the circuit, state of the second antenna in the passive ground state when operating the third antenna. 12. The method as described in claim 11, wherein:
the first antenna is focused on a first direction and based on a first wireless technology; the second antenna is focused on a second direction and based on the first wireless technology, the second direction being different from the first direction; and the third antenna is focused on a third direction and based on a second wireless technology, the second wireless technology being different from the first wireless technology. 13. The method as described in claim 11, wherein the first and second directions are substantially orthogonal. 14. The method as described in claim 13, wherein the first direction is substantially parallel to a planar surface of the circuit board and the second direction is substantially orthogonal to the planar surface of a circuit board. 15. The method as described in claim 11, further comprising positioning a sensor at an edge of a circuit board and extending the sensor laterally beyond a planar surface of the circuit board. 16. The method as described in claim 15, wherein the circuit board include a cutout portion at the edge to receive an outer profile of the sensor. 17. The method as described in claim 11, wherein switching the operation of the first wireless technology between the first antenna to the second antenna based on the performance of the first and second antennas includes switching the operation of the first wireless technology between the first antenna and the second antenna based on a packet error rate associated with the performance of the first and second antennas. 18. The method as described in claim 11, wherein the circuit is configured to switch the second antenna between focusing on the second direction and operating as the shield for the third antenna. | There is described a device for switching communications comprising a circuit board as well as first, second, and third antennas. The first antenna is coupled to the circuit board, and the first antenna is focused on a first direction and based on a first wireless technology. The second antenna is coupled to the circuit board, and the second antenna is focused on a second direction and based on the first wireless technology, in which the second direction is different from the first direction. The third antenna is coupled to the circuit board, and the third antenna is focused on a third direction and based on a second wireless technology, in which the second wireless technology is different from the first wireless technology. The second antenna may operate as a shield for the third antenna.1. A device for switching communications comprising:
a circuit board; a first antenna coupled to the circuit board, the first antenna being focused on a first direction and based on a first wireless technology; a second antenna coupled to the circuit board, the second antenna being focused on a second direction and based on the first wireless technology, the second direction being different from the first direction; and a third antenna coupled to the circuit board, the third antenna being focused on a third direction and based on a second wireless technology, the second wireless technology being different from the first wireless technology, wherein the second antenna may operate as a shield for the third antenna. 2. The device as described in claim 1, wherein the first and second directions are substantially orthogonal. 3. The device as described in claim 2, wherein the first direction is substantially parallel to a planar surface of the circuit board and the second direction is substantially orthogonal to the planar surface of the circuit board. 4. The device as described in claim 1, further comprising a sensor is positioned at an edge of the circuit board and extending laterally beyond a planar surface of the circuit board. 5. The device as described in claim 4, wherein the circuit board include a cutout portion at the edge to receive an outer profile of the sensor. 6. The device as described in claim 1, wherein the circuit board includes a circuit configured to switch operation of the first wireless technology between the first antenna and the second antenna based on a performance of the first and second antennas. 7. The device as described in claim 6, wherein the circuit switches operation of the first wireless technology between the first antenna and the second antenna based on a packet error rate associated with the performance of the first and second antennas. 8. The device as described in claim 1, wherein the circuit is configured to switch the second antenna between an active operation states and a passive ground state. 9. The device as described in claim 1, wherein the circuit is configured to switch the second antenna between focusing on the second direction and operating as the shield for the third antenna. 10. The device as described in claim 1, wherein the first antenna is located at the circuit board and the second antenna is offset, but coupled to, the circuit board. 11. A method of a device for switching communications, the method comprising:
controlling, by a circuit, operation of a first antenna, a second antenna, and a third antenna; switching, by the circuit, operation of the first wireless technology between the first antenna to the second antenna based on a performance of the first and second antennas; switching, by the circuit, state of the second antenna between an active operation state and a passive ground state based on an operation state of the third antenna; and maintaining, by the circuit, state of the second antenna in the passive ground state when operating the third antenna. 12. The method as described in claim 11, wherein:
the first antenna is focused on a first direction and based on a first wireless technology; the second antenna is focused on a second direction and based on the first wireless technology, the second direction being different from the first direction; and the third antenna is focused on a third direction and based on a second wireless technology, the second wireless technology being different from the first wireless technology. 13. The method as described in claim 11, wherein the first and second directions are substantially orthogonal. 14. The method as described in claim 13, wherein the first direction is substantially parallel to a planar surface of the circuit board and the second direction is substantially orthogonal to the planar surface of a circuit board. 15. The method as described in claim 11, further comprising positioning a sensor at an edge of a circuit board and extending the sensor laterally beyond a planar surface of the circuit board. 16. The method as described in claim 15, wherein the circuit board include a cutout portion at the edge to receive an outer profile of the sensor. 17. The method as described in claim 11, wherein switching the operation of the first wireless technology between the first antenna to the second antenna based on the performance of the first and second antennas includes switching the operation of the first wireless technology between the first antenna and the second antenna based on a packet error rate associated with the performance of the first and second antennas. 18. The method as described in claim 11, wherein the circuit is configured to switch the second antenna between focusing on the second direction and operating as the shield for the third antenna. | 2,800 |
349,346 | 16,806,926 | 2,846 | A multilayer coil component includes a multilayer body formed by stacking a plurality of insulating layers on top of one another and that has a coil built thereinto, and a first outer electrode and a second outer electrode that are electrically connected to the coil. The coil is formed by electrically connecting a plurality of coil conductors. A first main surface of the multilayer body is a mounting surface. A stacking direction of the multilayer body is parallel to the mounting surface. The multilayer coil component includes first and second connection conductors. The first and second connection conductors overlap the coil conductors in a plan view from the stacking direction and are located closer to the mounting surface than a center axis of the coil. Distances between adjacent coil conductors are not constant in a side view from a direction perpendicular to the stacking direction. | 1. A multilayer coil component comprising:
a multilayer body that is formed by stacking a plurality of insulating layers on top of one another and that has a coil built into the inside thereof, the coil being formed by electrically connecting a plurality of coil conductors, which are stacked together with insulating layers, to one another, and the multilayer body has
a first end surface and a second end surface, which face each other in a length direction,
a first main surface and a second main surface, which face each other in a height direction perpendicular to the length direction, the first main surface being a mounting surface, a stacking direction of the multilayer body and an axial direction of the coil being parallel to the mounting surface, the coil conductors overlap in a plan view from the stacking direction, and distances between adjacent coil conductors are not constant in a side view from a direction perpendicular to the stacking direction, and
a first side surface and a second side surface, which face each other in a width direction perpendicular to the length direction and the height direction;
a first outer electrode and a second outer electrode that are electrically connected to the coil, the first outer electrode being arranged so as to cover part of the first end surface and so as to extend from the first end surface and cover part of the first main surface, and the second outer electrode being arranged so as to cover part of the second end surface and so as to extend from the second end surface and cover part of the first main surface; and a first connection conductor and a second connection conductor inside the multilayer body; wherein the first connection conductor is connected in a straight line between a part of the first outer electrode that covers the first end surface and the coil conductor that faces the first outer electrode, the second connection conductor is connected in a straight line between a part of the second outer electrode that covers the second end surface and the coil conductor that faces the second outer electrode, and the first connection conductor and the second connection conductor overlap the coil conductors in a plan view from the stacking direction and are located closer to the mounting surface than a center axis of the coil. 2. The multilayer coil component according to claim 1, wherein
the distances between adjacent coil conductors increase in a direction from the first end surface toward the second end surface. 3. The multilayer coil component according to claim 1, wherein
a length of the coil in the length direction lies in a range of around 85.0% to 94.0% of a length of the multilayer body. 4. The multilayer coil component according to claim 2, wherein
a length of the coil in the length direction lies in a range of around 85.0% to 94.0% of a length of the multilayer body. | A multilayer coil component includes a multilayer body formed by stacking a plurality of insulating layers on top of one another and that has a coil built thereinto, and a first outer electrode and a second outer electrode that are electrically connected to the coil. The coil is formed by electrically connecting a plurality of coil conductors. A first main surface of the multilayer body is a mounting surface. A stacking direction of the multilayer body is parallel to the mounting surface. The multilayer coil component includes first and second connection conductors. The first and second connection conductors overlap the coil conductors in a plan view from the stacking direction and are located closer to the mounting surface than a center axis of the coil. Distances between adjacent coil conductors are not constant in a side view from a direction perpendicular to the stacking direction.1. A multilayer coil component comprising:
a multilayer body that is formed by stacking a plurality of insulating layers on top of one another and that has a coil built into the inside thereof, the coil being formed by electrically connecting a plurality of coil conductors, which are stacked together with insulating layers, to one another, and the multilayer body has
a first end surface and a second end surface, which face each other in a length direction,
a first main surface and a second main surface, which face each other in a height direction perpendicular to the length direction, the first main surface being a mounting surface, a stacking direction of the multilayer body and an axial direction of the coil being parallel to the mounting surface, the coil conductors overlap in a plan view from the stacking direction, and distances between adjacent coil conductors are not constant in a side view from a direction perpendicular to the stacking direction, and
a first side surface and a second side surface, which face each other in a width direction perpendicular to the length direction and the height direction;
a first outer electrode and a second outer electrode that are electrically connected to the coil, the first outer electrode being arranged so as to cover part of the first end surface and so as to extend from the first end surface and cover part of the first main surface, and the second outer electrode being arranged so as to cover part of the second end surface and so as to extend from the second end surface and cover part of the first main surface; and a first connection conductor and a second connection conductor inside the multilayer body; wherein the first connection conductor is connected in a straight line between a part of the first outer electrode that covers the first end surface and the coil conductor that faces the first outer electrode, the second connection conductor is connected in a straight line between a part of the second outer electrode that covers the second end surface and the coil conductor that faces the second outer electrode, and the first connection conductor and the second connection conductor overlap the coil conductors in a plan view from the stacking direction and are located closer to the mounting surface than a center axis of the coil. 2. The multilayer coil component according to claim 1, wherein
the distances between adjacent coil conductors increase in a direction from the first end surface toward the second end surface. 3. The multilayer coil component according to claim 1, wherein
a length of the coil in the length direction lies in a range of around 85.0% to 94.0% of a length of the multilayer body. 4. The multilayer coil component according to claim 2, wherein
a length of the coil in the length direction lies in a range of around 85.0% to 94.0% of a length of the multilayer body. | 2,800 |
349,347 | 16,806,902 | 2,846 | A scaffold comprised of a plurality of PLLA layers, which may include stem cells, for regenerating bone or tissue. The PLLA layers are separated by a plurality of hydrogel layers. The PLLA layers comprise a nanofiber mesh having a piezoelectric constant to apply an electrical charge to the bone or tissue upon application of ultrasound energy. | 1. A method of regenerating bone or tissue, the method comprising:
applying a scaffold to a wound, the scaffold comprising a plurality of PLLA layers, each layer separated by a hydrogel layer; applying ultrasound energy to the scaffold; generating an electrical surface charge on the scaffold; and delivering an electrical output to the bone or tissue from the scaffold to regenerate the bone or tissue. 2. The method of claim 1, wherein the ultrasound energy includes an intensity that is less than 0.5 W/cm2. 3. The method of claim 1, wherein the ultrasound energy includes a frequency in the kHz range. 4. The method of claim 3, wherein the ultrasound energy includes a frequency at 40 kHz. 5. The method of claim 1, wherein at least one of the PLLA layers includes stem cells. 6. The method of claim 1, wherein at least one of the PLLA layers includes growth factors. 7. The method of claim 6, wherein the growth factors includes BMP-2. 8. The method of claim 1, wherein the PLLA layers comprise a biodegradable nanofiber mesh. 9. The method of claim 8, wherein the nanofiber mesh is created by an electrospinning process to exhibit piezoelectricity. 10. The method of claim 9, wherein the electrospinning process rotates a collector drum at rotation speeds of between 1,000-4,000 rpm. 11. The method of claim 1, wherein each PLLA layer includes a thickness of about 25 μm. 12. The method of claim 1, wherein the scaffold includes about 2-10 PLLA layers. 13. The method of claim 1, wherein at least one of the PLLA layers is bonded with a layer of collagen, loaded with calcium phosphate. 14. The method of claim 13, wherein the calcium phosphate is tri-calcium phosphate. 15. A scaffold for regenerating bone or tissue, the scaffold comprising:
a plurality of PLLA layers comprising a nanofiber mesh, the PLLA layers having a piezo constant of 15-20 pC/N; and a plurality of hydrogel layers, each hydrogel layer positioned between two PLLA layers; wherein the plurality of PLLA layers deliver an electric charge to the bone or tissue after ultrasound energy is applied to the plurality of PLLA layers to induce growth of the bone or tissue. 16. The scaffold of claim 15, wherein the plurality of PLLA layers includes 2-10 PLLA layers. 17. The scaffold of claim 15, wherein at least one of the PLLA layers includes stem cells. 18. The scaffold of claim 15, wherein at least one of the PLLA layers includes growth factors. 19. The scaffold of claim 18, wherein the growth factors includes BMP-2. 20. The scaffold of claim 15, wherein each PLLA layer includes a thickness of about 25 μm. | A scaffold comprised of a plurality of PLLA layers, which may include stem cells, for regenerating bone or tissue. The PLLA layers are separated by a plurality of hydrogel layers. The PLLA layers comprise a nanofiber mesh having a piezoelectric constant to apply an electrical charge to the bone or tissue upon application of ultrasound energy.1. A method of regenerating bone or tissue, the method comprising:
applying a scaffold to a wound, the scaffold comprising a plurality of PLLA layers, each layer separated by a hydrogel layer; applying ultrasound energy to the scaffold; generating an electrical surface charge on the scaffold; and delivering an electrical output to the bone or tissue from the scaffold to regenerate the bone or tissue. 2. The method of claim 1, wherein the ultrasound energy includes an intensity that is less than 0.5 W/cm2. 3. The method of claim 1, wherein the ultrasound energy includes a frequency in the kHz range. 4. The method of claim 3, wherein the ultrasound energy includes a frequency at 40 kHz. 5. The method of claim 1, wherein at least one of the PLLA layers includes stem cells. 6. The method of claim 1, wherein at least one of the PLLA layers includes growth factors. 7. The method of claim 6, wherein the growth factors includes BMP-2. 8. The method of claim 1, wherein the PLLA layers comprise a biodegradable nanofiber mesh. 9. The method of claim 8, wherein the nanofiber mesh is created by an electrospinning process to exhibit piezoelectricity. 10. The method of claim 9, wherein the electrospinning process rotates a collector drum at rotation speeds of between 1,000-4,000 rpm. 11. The method of claim 1, wherein each PLLA layer includes a thickness of about 25 μm. 12. The method of claim 1, wherein the scaffold includes about 2-10 PLLA layers. 13. The method of claim 1, wherein at least one of the PLLA layers is bonded with a layer of collagen, loaded with calcium phosphate. 14. The method of claim 13, wherein the calcium phosphate is tri-calcium phosphate. 15. A scaffold for regenerating bone or tissue, the scaffold comprising:
a plurality of PLLA layers comprising a nanofiber mesh, the PLLA layers having a piezo constant of 15-20 pC/N; and a plurality of hydrogel layers, each hydrogel layer positioned between two PLLA layers; wherein the plurality of PLLA layers deliver an electric charge to the bone or tissue after ultrasound energy is applied to the plurality of PLLA layers to induce growth of the bone or tissue. 16. The scaffold of claim 15, wherein the plurality of PLLA layers includes 2-10 PLLA layers. 17. The scaffold of claim 15, wherein at least one of the PLLA layers includes stem cells. 18. The scaffold of claim 15, wherein at least one of the PLLA layers includes growth factors. 19. The scaffold of claim 18, wherein the growth factors includes BMP-2. 20. The scaffold of claim 15, wherein each PLLA layer includes a thickness of about 25 μm. | 2,800 |
349,348 | 16,806,915 | 2,846 | A multilayer coil component that includes a multilayer body formed by stacking a plurality of insulating layers on top of one another and that has a coil built into the inside thereof; and a first outer electrode and a second outer electrode that are electrically connected to the coil. The coil is formed by electrically connecting a plurality of coil conductors, which are stacked together with insulating layers, to one another. A first main surface of the multilayer body is a mounting surface. A stacking direction of the multilayer body and an axial direction of the coil are parallel to the mounting surface. At least one of the coil conductors is provided with an expanded region that has a line width that is larger than a coil line width in a plan view from the stacking direction. | 1. A multilayer coil component comprising:
a multilayer body that is formed by stacking a plurality of insulating layers on top of one another and that has a coil built into the inside thereof, the coil is formed by electrically connecting a plurality of coil conductors, which are stacked together with insulating layers, to one another, and the multilayer body has
a first end surface and a second end surface, which face each other in a length direction,
a first main surface and a second main surface, which face each other in a height direction perpendicular to the length direction, the first main surface being a mounting surface, a stacking direction of the multilayer body and an axial direction of the coil being parallel to the mounting surface, and at least one of the coil conductors being provided with an expanded region that has a line width that is larger than a coil line width in a plan view from the stacking direction, and
a first side surface and a second side surface, which face each other in a width direction perpendicular to the length direction and the height direction; and
a first outer electrode and a second outer electrode that are electrically connected to the coil, the first outer electrode being arranged so as to cover part of the first end surface and so as to extend from the first end surface and cover part of the first main surface, and the second outer electrode is arranged so as to cover part of the second end surface and so as to extend from the second end surface and cover part of the first main surface. 2. The multilayer coil component according to claim 1, wherein
the coil includes a plurality of the coil conductors provided with expanded regions, and areas of the expanded regions increase from the first end surface toward the second end surface. 3. The multilayer coil component according to claim 1, further comprising:
a first connection conductor and a second connection conductor inside the multilayer body; wherein the first connection conductor is connected in a straight line between a part of the first outer electrode that covers the first end surface and the coil conductor that faces the first outer electrode, and the second connection conductor is connected in a straight line between a part of the second outer electrode that covers the second end surface and the coil conductor that faces the second outer electrode. 4. The multilayer coil component according to claim 3, wherein
the first connection conductor and the second connection conductor overlap the coil conductors in a plan view from the stacking direction and are located closer to the mounting surface than a center axis of the coil. 5. The multilayer coil component according to claim 2, further comprising:
a first connection conductor and a second connection conductor inside the multilayer body; wherein the first connection conductor is connected in a straight line between a part of the first outer electrode that covers the first end surface and the coil conductor that faces the first outer electrode, and the second connection conductor is connected in a straight line between a part of the second outer electrode that covers the second end surface and the coil conductor that faces the second outer electrode. 6. The multilayer coil component according to claim 5, wherein
the first connection conductor and the second connection conductor overlap the coil conductors in a plan view from the stacking direction and are located closer to the mounting surface than a center axis of the coil. | A multilayer coil component that includes a multilayer body formed by stacking a plurality of insulating layers on top of one another and that has a coil built into the inside thereof; and a first outer electrode and a second outer electrode that are electrically connected to the coil. The coil is formed by electrically connecting a plurality of coil conductors, which are stacked together with insulating layers, to one another. A first main surface of the multilayer body is a mounting surface. A stacking direction of the multilayer body and an axial direction of the coil are parallel to the mounting surface. At least one of the coil conductors is provided with an expanded region that has a line width that is larger than a coil line width in a plan view from the stacking direction.1. A multilayer coil component comprising:
a multilayer body that is formed by stacking a plurality of insulating layers on top of one another and that has a coil built into the inside thereof, the coil is formed by electrically connecting a plurality of coil conductors, which are stacked together with insulating layers, to one another, and the multilayer body has
a first end surface and a second end surface, which face each other in a length direction,
a first main surface and a second main surface, which face each other in a height direction perpendicular to the length direction, the first main surface being a mounting surface, a stacking direction of the multilayer body and an axial direction of the coil being parallel to the mounting surface, and at least one of the coil conductors being provided with an expanded region that has a line width that is larger than a coil line width in a plan view from the stacking direction, and
a first side surface and a second side surface, which face each other in a width direction perpendicular to the length direction and the height direction; and
a first outer electrode and a second outer electrode that are electrically connected to the coil, the first outer electrode being arranged so as to cover part of the first end surface and so as to extend from the first end surface and cover part of the first main surface, and the second outer electrode is arranged so as to cover part of the second end surface and so as to extend from the second end surface and cover part of the first main surface. 2. The multilayer coil component according to claim 1, wherein
the coil includes a plurality of the coil conductors provided with expanded regions, and areas of the expanded regions increase from the first end surface toward the second end surface. 3. The multilayer coil component according to claim 1, further comprising:
a first connection conductor and a second connection conductor inside the multilayer body; wherein the first connection conductor is connected in a straight line between a part of the first outer electrode that covers the first end surface and the coil conductor that faces the first outer electrode, and the second connection conductor is connected in a straight line between a part of the second outer electrode that covers the second end surface and the coil conductor that faces the second outer electrode. 4. The multilayer coil component according to claim 3, wherein
the first connection conductor and the second connection conductor overlap the coil conductors in a plan view from the stacking direction and are located closer to the mounting surface than a center axis of the coil. 5. The multilayer coil component according to claim 2, further comprising:
a first connection conductor and a second connection conductor inside the multilayer body; wherein the first connection conductor is connected in a straight line between a part of the first outer electrode that covers the first end surface and the coil conductor that faces the first outer electrode, and the second connection conductor is connected in a straight line between a part of the second outer electrode that covers the second end surface and the coil conductor that faces the second outer electrode. 6. The multilayer coil component according to claim 5, wherein
the first connection conductor and the second connection conductor overlap the coil conductors in a plan view from the stacking direction and are located closer to the mounting surface than a center axis of the coil. | 2,800 |
349,349 | 16,806,913 | 2,875 | Disclosed are systems, kits and methods for smart footwear for dance performances, as well as computer-implemented methods to train performers using the smart footwear. An example method for improving a dance technique or a dance performance by a performer, comprises receiving, using a radio frequency (RF) transceiver on a wireless device, a signal from an RF transmitter on a pointe shoe, determining, based on the signal, an activation status of each of a plurality of pressure sensors on the pointe shoe, and providing, based on the activation status, an indication of an accuracy or efficacy of the performer standing en pointe during the dance technique or dance performance. | 1. A system for improving a dance technique or a dance performance by a performer, comprising:
a pointe shoe, comprising:
a light-emitting diode (LED) ribbon affixed to an external surface of the pointe shoe,
a power source,
a rigid enclosure within a front end of the pointe shoe that encases and supports toes of the performer, wherein a front end of the rigid enclosure is flattened to form a platform upon which the performer can balance when standing en pointe,
a plurality of pressure sensors, in the rigid enclosure or affixed to the platform, configured to activate when the performer stands en pointe during the dance performance, wherein the each of the plurality of pressure sensors comprises a capacitive layer, and wherein standing en pointe comprises the performer standing on the tips of their toes,
a radio frequency (RF) transmitter operatively connected to the plurality of pressure sensors and configured to be activated when at least one of the plurality of pressure sensors is activated, and
at least one wire connecting the power source to the LED ribbon, the plurality of pressure sensors and the RF transmitter; and
a wireless device comprising:
a processor, and
an RF transceiver,
wherein the processor is configured to:
receive, using the RF transceiver, a signal from the RF transmitter,
determine, based on the signal, an activation status of each of the plurality of pressure sensors, and
provide, based on the activation status, an indication of an accuracy or efficacy of the performer standing en pointe during the dance technique or dance performance. 2. The system of claim 1, wherein the RF transmitter and the RF transceiver use a low-rate and low-latency wireless communication protocol. 3. The system of claim 1, wherein the activation status is determined further based on a calibration process that is configured using an age or a weight of the performer. 4. The system of claim 1, wherein the pointe shoe further comprises:
a toggle switch configured to switch between the LED ribbon remaining off and the LED ribbon being activated as a function of the plurality of pressure sensors. 5. The system of claim 4, wherein the pointe shoe further comprises an accelerometer, and wherein the toggle switch is further configured to being activated as a function of the accelerometer. 6. The system of claim 1, wherein the LED ribbon is affixed to a binding of the pointe shoe. 7. The system of claim 1, wherein the LED ribbon is affixed to a vamp of the pointe shoe. 8. The system of claim 1, wherein the pointe shoe further comprises an accelerometer, and wherein the processor is further configured to:
extract, from the signal, accelerometer data; and track, based on the accelerometer data, one or more movements of the performer during the dance performance. 9. A method for improving a dance technique or a dance performance by a performer, comprising:
receiving, using a radio frequency (RF) transceiver on a wireless device, a signal from an RF transmitter on a pointe shoe; determining, based on the signal, an activation status of each of a plurality of pressure sensors on the pointe shoe; and providing, based on the activation status, an indication of an accuracy or efficacy of the performer standing en pointe during the dance technique or dance performance, wherein the pointe shoe comprises:
a light-emitting diode (LED) ribbon affixed to an external surface of the pointe shoe,
a power source,
a rigid enclosure within a front end of the pointe shoe that encases and supports toes of the performer, wherein a front end of the rigid enclosure is flattened to form a platform upon which the performer can balance when standing en pointe, and
at least one wire connecting the power source to the LED ribbon, the plurality of pressure sensors and the RF transmitter,
wherein the plurality of pressure sensors, in the rigid enclosure or affixed to the platform, is configured to activate when the performer stands en pointe during the dance performance, wherein the each of the plurality of pressure sensors comprises a capacitive layer, and wherein standing en pointe comprises the performer standing on the tips of their toes, and wherein the RF transmitter is operatively connected to the plurality of pressure sensors and configured to be activated when at least one of the plurality of pressure sensors is activated. 10. The method of claim 9, wherein the determining the activation status is further based on a calibration process, and wherein the method further comprises:
performing, based on an age or a weight of the performer, the calibration process. 11. The method of claim 9, wherein the RF transmitter and the RF transceiver use a low-rate and low-latency wireless communication protocol. 12. The method of claim 9, wherein the pointe shoe further comprises:
a toggle switch configured to switch between the LED ribbon remaining off and the LED ribbon being activated as a function of the plurality of pressure sensors. 13. The method of claim 12, wherein the pointe shoe further comprises an accelerometer, and wherein the toggle switch is further configured to being activated as a function of the accelerometer. 14. The method of claim 9, wherein the LED ribbon is affixed to a binding or a vamp of the pointe shoe. 15. A kit for enhancing a pointe shoe for improving a dance technique or a dance performance by a performer, the kit comprising:
a pointe shoe, comprising:
a rigid enclosure within a front end of the pointe shoe that encases and supports toes of the performer, wherein a front end of the rigid enclosure is flattened to form a platform upon which the performer can balance when standing en pointe, and
a piece of rigid material that stiffens a sole of the pointe shoe to provide support for an arch of an en pointe foot of the performer;
a light-emitting diode (LED) ribbon; a power source; a plurality of pressure sensors; a radio frequency (RF) transmitter; and at least one wire, wherein the LED ribbon is configured to be affixed to an external surface of the pointe shoe, wherein the plurality of pressure sensors is configured to be inserted into the rigid enclosure or affixed to the platform, and to activate when the performer stands en pointe during the dance performance, wherein the each of the plurality of pressure sensors comprises a capacitive layer, and wherein standing en pointe comprises the performer standing on the tips of their toes, wherein the RF transmitter is configured to be operatively connected to the plurality of pressure sensors, and to be activated when at least one of the plurality of pressure sensors is activated, wherein the at least one wire is configured to connect the power source to the LED ribbon, the plurality of pressure sensors and the RF transmitter, and wherein a wireless device that is paired to the pointe shoe is configured to:
receive a signal from the RF transmitter affixed to the pointe shoe,
determine, based on the signal, an activation status of each of the plurality of pressure sensors, and
provide, based on the activation status, an indication of an accuracy or efficacy of the performer standing en pointe during the dance technique or dance performance. 16. The kit of claim 15, wherein the RF transmitter uses a low-rate and low-latency wireless communication protocol. 17. The kit of claim 15, further comprising:
a toggle switch configured to be affixed to the pointe shoe, operatively connected to the power source and the LED ribbon, and switch between the LED ribbon remaining off and the LED ribbon being activated as a function of the plurality of pressure sensors. 18. The kit of claim 17, further comprising:
an accelerometer configured to be affixed to the pointe shoe, and operatively connected to the power source and the toggle switch, wherein the toggle switch is further configured to switch between the plurality of LEDs remaining off and the plurality of LEDs being activated as a function of the accelerometer. 19. The kit of claim 15, wherein the LED ribbon is affixed to a binding or a vamp of the pointe shoe. 20. The kit of claim 15, wherein the wireless device is further configured to:
perform, based on an age or a weight of the performer, a calibration process, wherein determining the activation status is further based on the calibration process. | Disclosed are systems, kits and methods for smart footwear for dance performances, as well as computer-implemented methods to train performers using the smart footwear. An example method for improving a dance technique or a dance performance by a performer, comprises receiving, using a radio frequency (RF) transceiver on a wireless device, a signal from an RF transmitter on a pointe shoe, determining, based on the signal, an activation status of each of a plurality of pressure sensors on the pointe shoe, and providing, based on the activation status, an indication of an accuracy or efficacy of the performer standing en pointe during the dance technique or dance performance.1. A system for improving a dance technique or a dance performance by a performer, comprising:
a pointe shoe, comprising:
a light-emitting diode (LED) ribbon affixed to an external surface of the pointe shoe,
a power source,
a rigid enclosure within a front end of the pointe shoe that encases and supports toes of the performer, wherein a front end of the rigid enclosure is flattened to form a platform upon which the performer can balance when standing en pointe,
a plurality of pressure sensors, in the rigid enclosure or affixed to the platform, configured to activate when the performer stands en pointe during the dance performance, wherein the each of the plurality of pressure sensors comprises a capacitive layer, and wherein standing en pointe comprises the performer standing on the tips of their toes,
a radio frequency (RF) transmitter operatively connected to the plurality of pressure sensors and configured to be activated when at least one of the plurality of pressure sensors is activated, and
at least one wire connecting the power source to the LED ribbon, the plurality of pressure sensors and the RF transmitter; and
a wireless device comprising:
a processor, and
an RF transceiver,
wherein the processor is configured to:
receive, using the RF transceiver, a signal from the RF transmitter,
determine, based on the signal, an activation status of each of the plurality of pressure sensors, and
provide, based on the activation status, an indication of an accuracy or efficacy of the performer standing en pointe during the dance technique or dance performance. 2. The system of claim 1, wherein the RF transmitter and the RF transceiver use a low-rate and low-latency wireless communication protocol. 3. The system of claim 1, wherein the activation status is determined further based on a calibration process that is configured using an age or a weight of the performer. 4. The system of claim 1, wherein the pointe shoe further comprises:
a toggle switch configured to switch between the LED ribbon remaining off and the LED ribbon being activated as a function of the plurality of pressure sensors. 5. The system of claim 4, wherein the pointe shoe further comprises an accelerometer, and wherein the toggle switch is further configured to being activated as a function of the accelerometer. 6. The system of claim 1, wherein the LED ribbon is affixed to a binding of the pointe shoe. 7. The system of claim 1, wherein the LED ribbon is affixed to a vamp of the pointe shoe. 8. The system of claim 1, wherein the pointe shoe further comprises an accelerometer, and wherein the processor is further configured to:
extract, from the signal, accelerometer data; and track, based on the accelerometer data, one or more movements of the performer during the dance performance. 9. A method for improving a dance technique or a dance performance by a performer, comprising:
receiving, using a radio frequency (RF) transceiver on a wireless device, a signal from an RF transmitter on a pointe shoe; determining, based on the signal, an activation status of each of a plurality of pressure sensors on the pointe shoe; and providing, based on the activation status, an indication of an accuracy or efficacy of the performer standing en pointe during the dance technique or dance performance, wherein the pointe shoe comprises:
a light-emitting diode (LED) ribbon affixed to an external surface of the pointe shoe,
a power source,
a rigid enclosure within a front end of the pointe shoe that encases and supports toes of the performer, wherein a front end of the rigid enclosure is flattened to form a platform upon which the performer can balance when standing en pointe, and
at least one wire connecting the power source to the LED ribbon, the plurality of pressure sensors and the RF transmitter,
wherein the plurality of pressure sensors, in the rigid enclosure or affixed to the platform, is configured to activate when the performer stands en pointe during the dance performance, wherein the each of the plurality of pressure sensors comprises a capacitive layer, and wherein standing en pointe comprises the performer standing on the tips of their toes, and wherein the RF transmitter is operatively connected to the plurality of pressure sensors and configured to be activated when at least one of the plurality of pressure sensors is activated. 10. The method of claim 9, wherein the determining the activation status is further based on a calibration process, and wherein the method further comprises:
performing, based on an age or a weight of the performer, the calibration process. 11. The method of claim 9, wherein the RF transmitter and the RF transceiver use a low-rate and low-latency wireless communication protocol. 12. The method of claim 9, wherein the pointe shoe further comprises:
a toggle switch configured to switch between the LED ribbon remaining off and the LED ribbon being activated as a function of the plurality of pressure sensors. 13. The method of claim 12, wherein the pointe shoe further comprises an accelerometer, and wherein the toggle switch is further configured to being activated as a function of the accelerometer. 14. The method of claim 9, wherein the LED ribbon is affixed to a binding or a vamp of the pointe shoe. 15. A kit for enhancing a pointe shoe for improving a dance technique or a dance performance by a performer, the kit comprising:
a pointe shoe, comprising:
a rigid enclosure within a front end of the pointe shoe that encases and supports toes of the performer, wherein a front end of the rigid enclosure is flattened to form a platform upon which the performer can balance when standing en pointe, and
a piece of rigid material that stiffens a sole of the pointe shoe to provide support for an arch of an en pointe foot of the performer;
a light-emitting diode (LED) ribbon; a power source; a plurality of pressure sensors; a radio frequency (RF) transmitter; and at least one wire, wherein the LED ribbon is configured to be affixed to an external surface of the pointe shoe, wherein the plurality of pressure sensors is configured to be inserted into the rigid enclosure or affixed to the platform, and to activate when the performer stands en pointe during the dance performance, wherein the each of the plurality of pressure sensors comprises a capacitive layer, and wherein standing en pointe comprises the performer standing on the tips of their toes, wherein the RF transmitter is configured to be operatively connected to the plurality of pressure sensors, and to be activated when at least one of the plurality of pressure sensors is activated, wherein the at least one wire is configured to connect the power source to the LED ribbon, the plurality of pressure sensors and the RF transmitter, and wherein a wireless device that is paired to the pointe shoe is configured to:
receive a signal from the RF transmitter affixed to the pointe shoe,
determine, based on the signal, an activation status of each of the plurality of pressure sensors, and
provide, based on the activation status, an indication of an accuracy or efficacy of the performer standing en pointe during the dance technique or dance performance. 16. The kit of claim 15, wherein the RF transmitter uses a low-rate and low-latency wireless communication protocol. 17. The kit of claim 15, further comprising:
a toggle switch configured to be affixed to the pointe shoe, operatively connected to the power source and the LED ribbon, and switch between the LED ribbon remaining off and the LED ribbon being activated as a function of the plurality of pressure sensors. 18. The kit of claim 17, further comprising:
an accelerometer configured to be affixed to the pointe shoe, and operatively connected to the power source and the toggle switch, wherein the toggle switch is further configured to switch between the plurality of LEDs remaining off and the plurality of LEDs being activated as a function of the accelerometer. 19. The kit of claim 15, wherein the LED ribbon is affixed to a binding or a vamp of the pointe shoe. 20. The kit of claim 15, wherein the wireless device is further configured to:
perform, based on an age or a weight of the performer, a calibration process, wherein determining the activation status is further based on the calibration process. | 2,800 |
349,350 | 16,806,838 | 2,875 | A solution including an organic solvent (S), and an antioxidant (A), in which an antioxidant (A) includes a tocopherol compound (A1). | 1. A solution comprising an organic solvent (S), and an antioxidant (A), wherein the antioxidant (A) includes a tocopherol compound (A1). 2. The solution according to claim 1, wherein the solution is a pre-wet solution, and a content of the tocopherol compound (A1) is 0.1 to 50 ppm by mass with respect to a total amount of the pre-wet solution. 3. The solution according to claim 2, wherein the organic solvent (S) includes at least one member selected from the group consisting of ester solvents, ketone solvents, ether solvents, alcohol solvents, nitrile solvents, amide solvents, and sulfoxide solvents. 4. The solution according to claim 1, wherein the solution is a resist developer solution, and a content of the tocopherol compound (A1) is 0.1 to 50 ppm by mass with respect to a total amount of the resist developer solution. 5. The solution according to claim 4, wherein the organic solvent (S) includes at least one member selected from the group consisting of ester solvents, ketone solvents, ether solvents, alcohol solvents, nitrile solvents, amide solvents, and sulfoxide solvents. 6. The solution according to claim 1, wherein the solution is a rinsing solution, and a content of the tocopherol compound (A1) is 0.1 to 50 ppm by mass with respect to a total amount of the rinsing solution. 7. The solution according to claim 6, wherein the organic solvent (S) includes at least one member selected from the group consisting of ester solvents, ketone solvents, ether solvents, alcohol solvents, nitrile solvents, amide solvents, and sulfoxide solvents. 8. The solution according to claim 1, wherein the solution is a semiconductor device cleaning solution, and a content of the tocopherol compound (A1) is 0.1 to 50 ppm by mass with respect to a total amount of the semiconductor device cleaning solution. 9. The solution according to claim 8, wherein the organic solvent (S) includes at least one member selected from the group consisting of ester solvents, ketone solvents, ether solvents, alcohol solvents, nitrile solvents, amide solvents, and sulfoxide solvents. 10. A method of forming a resist pattern comprising:
bringing the solution of claim 1 into contact with a support; forming a resist film on the support using a resist composition after bringing the solution of claim 1 into contact with the support; exposing the resist film; and developing the resist film after exposure using a developer solution to form a resist pattern. 11. A method of forming a resist pattern comprising:
forming a resist film on a support using a resist composition; exposing the resist film; and developing the resist film after exposure using the solution of claim 1 to form a resist pattern. 12. A method of forming a resist pattern comprising:
forming a resist film on a support using a resist composition; exposing the resist film; and developing the resist film after exposure using a developer solution and carrying out a rinsing process with the solution of claim 1 to form a resist pattern. 13. A method for manufacturing a semiconductor device, comprising forming a resist pattern using the method according to claim 10. 14. A method for manufacturing a semiconductor device, comprising 11. resist pattern using the method according to claim 11. 15. A method for manufacturing a semiconductor device, comprising forming a resist pattern using the method according to claim 12. | A solution including an organic solvent (S), and an antioxidant (A), in which an antioxidant (A) includes a tocopherol compound (A1).1. A solution comprising an organic solvent (S), and an antioxidant (A), wherein the antioxidant (A) includes a tocopherol compound (A1). 2. The solution according to claim 1, wherein the solution is a pre-wet solution, and a content of the tocopherol compound (A1) is 0.1 to 50 ppm by mass with respect to a total amount of the pre-wet solution. 3. The solution according to claim 2, wherein the organic solvent (S) includes at least one member selected from the group consisting of ester solvents, ketone solvents, ether solvents, alcohol solvents, nitrile solvents, amide solvents, and sulfoxide solvents. 4. The solution according to claim 1, wherein the solution is a resist developer solution, and a content of the tocopherol compound (A1) is 0.1 to 50 ppm by mass with respect to a total amount of the resist developer solution. 5. The solution according to claim 4, wherein the organic solvent (S) includes at least one member selected from the group consisting of ester solvents, ketone solvents, ether solvents, alcohol solvents, nitrile solvents, amide solvents, and sulfoxide solvents. 6. The solution according to claim 1, wherein the solution is a rinsing solution, and a content of the tocopherol compound (A1) is 0.1 to 50 ppm by mass with respect to a total amount of the rinsing solution. 7. The solution according to claim 6, wherein the organic solvent (S) includes at least one member selected from the group consisting of ester solvents, ketone solvents, ether solvents, alcohol solvents, nitrile solvents, amide solvents, and sulfoxide solvents. 8. The solution according to claim 1, wherein the solution is a semiconductor device cleaning solution, and a content of the tocopherol compound (A1) is 0.1 to 50 ppm by mass with respect to a total amount of the semiconductor device cleaning solution. 9. The solution according to claim 8, wherein the organic solvent (S) includes at least one member selected from the group consisting of ester solvents, ketone solvents, ether solvents, alcohol solvents, nitrile solvents, amide solvents, and sulfoxide solvents. 10. A method of forming a resist pattern comprising:
bringing the solution of claim 1 into contact with a support; forming a resist film on the support using a resist composition after bringing the solution of claim 1 into contact with the support; exposing the resist film; and developing the resist film after exposure using a developer solution to form a resist pattern. 11. A method of forming a resist pattern comprising:
forming a resist film on a support using a resist composition; exposing the resist film; and developing the resist film after exposure using the solution of claim 1 to form a resist pattern. 12. A method of forming a resist pattern comprising:
forming a resist film on a support using a resist composition; exposing the resist film; and developing the resist film after exposure using a developer solution and carrying out a rinsing process with the solution of claim 1 to form a resist pattern. 13. A method for manufacturing a semiconductor device, comprising forming a resist pattern using the method according to claim 10. 14. A method for manufacturing a semiconductor device, comprising 11. resist pattern using the method according to claim 11. 15. A method for manufacturing a semiconductor device, comprising forming a resist pattern using the method according to claim 12. | 2,800 |
349,351 | 16,806,930 | 2,875 | A distributed acoustic system (DAS) may comprise an interrogator and an umbilical line attached at one end to the interrogator, a downhole fiber attached to the umbilical line at the end opposite the interrogator. The interrogator may further include a proximal circulator, a distal circulator connected to the proximal circulator by a first fiber optic cable, and a second fiber optic cable connecting the proximal circulator and the distal circulator. | 1. A distributed acoustic system (DAS) comprising:
an interrogator comprising:
a proximal circulator;
a distal circulator connected to the proximal circulator by a first fiber optic cable; and
a second fiber optic cable connecting the proximal circulator and the distal circulator;
an umbilical line attached at one end to the interrogator; and a downhole fiber attached to the umbilical line at the end opposite the interrogator. 2. The DAS of claim 1, further comprising an erbium doped fiber amplifier (EDFA) disposed between the proximal circulator and the distal circulator on the second fiber optic cable. 3. The DAS of claim 2, further comprising an optical shutter disposed between the EDFA and the distal circulator on the second fiber optic cable. 4. The DAS of claim 3, further comprising a wavelength division multiplexer (WDM) pump disposed on the first fiber optic cable between the proximal circulator and the distal circulator. 5. The DAS of claim 4, further comprising a Raman Pump connected to the WDM pump. 6. The DAS of claim 2, further comprising an optical shutter disposed between the distal circulator and the umbilical line. 7. The DAS of claim 1, wherein the first fiber optic cable and the second fiber optic cable are different lengths. 8. The DAS of claim 1, further comprising at least one Fiber Bragg Grating attached to the proximal circulator or the distal circulator. 9. The DAS of claim 1, wherein the interrogator is configured to receive backscattered light from a first sensing region and a second sensing region. 10. The DAS of claim 1, wherein the DAS is disposed in a subsea system operation of one or more wells and the umbilical line attaches to the downhole fiber at a fiber connection. 11. A distributed acoustic system (DAS) comprising:
an interrogator; an umbilical line attached to the interrogator at one end; and a downhole fiber attached to the umbilical line at the end opposite the interrogator. 12. The DAS of claim 11, further comprising an optical amplifier disposed in the umbilical line that is connected to a Raman Pump by a pump laser fiber. 13. The DAS of claim 11, further comprising two optical amplifiers disposed in series in the umbilical line that are each connected to individual Raman Pumps by individual pump laser fibers. 14. The DAS of claim 13, wherein the two optical amplifiers are connected to a Raman Pump by a pump laser fiber. 15. The DAS of claim 11, further comprising a proximal circulator, a distal circulator connected to the proximal circulator by a first fiber optic cable, a second fiber optic cable connecting the proximal circulator and the distal circulator, and wherein the proximal circulator, the distal circulator, the first fiber optic cable, and the second fiber optic cable are disposed in the umbilical line. 16. The DAS of claim 15, further comprising a first optical amplifier disposed on the first fiber optic cable between the proximal circulator and the distal circulator. 17. The DAS of claim 16, further comprising a second optical amplifier disposed on the second fiber optic cable between the proximal circulator and the distal circulator. 18. The DAS of claim 17, wherein the first optical amplifier is connected to a first Raman Pump by a first pump laser fiber and the second optical amplifier is connected to a second Raman Pump by a second pump laser fiber. 19. The DAS of claim 17, wherein the first optical amplifier and the second optical amplifier is connected to a Raman Pump by a pump laser fiber. 20. The DAS of claim 15, further comprising an optical amplifier disposed on the second fiber optic cable between the proximal circulator and the distal circulator. | A distributed acoustic system (DAS) may comprise an interrogator and an umbilical line attached at one end to the interrogator, a downhole fiber attached to the umbilical line at the end opposite the interrogator. The interrogator may further include a proximal circulator, a distal circulator connected to the proximal circulator by a first fiber optic cable, and a second fiber optic cable connecting the proximal circulator and the distal circulator.1. A distributed acoustic system (DAS) comprising:
an interrogator comprising:
a proximal circulator;
a distal circulator connected to the proximal circulator by a first fiber optic cable; and
a second fiber optic cable connecting the proximal circulator and the distal circulator;
an umbilical line attached at one end to the interrogator; and a downhole fiber attached to the umbilical line at the end opposite the interrogator. 2. The DAS of claim 1, further comprising an erbium doped fiber amplifier (EDFA) disposed between the proximal circulator and the distal circulator on the second fiber optic cable. 3. The DAS of claim 2, further comprising an optical shutter disposed between the EDFA and the distal circulator on the second fiber optic cable. 4. The DAS of claim 3, further comprising a wavelength division multiplexer (WDM) pump disposed on the first fiber optic cable between the proximal circulator and the distal circulator. 5. The DAS of claim 4, further comprising a Raman Pump connected to the WDM pump. 6. The DAS of claim 2, further comprising an optical shutter disposed between the distal circulator and the umbilical line. 7. The DAS of claim 1, wherein the first fiber optic cable and the second fiber optic cable are different lengths. 8. The DAS of claim 1, further comprising at least one Fiber Bragg Grating attached to the proximal circulator or the distal circulator. 9. The DAS of claim 1, wherein the interrogator is configured to receive backscattered light from a first sensing region and a second sensing region. 10. The DAS of claim 1, wherein the DAS is disposed in a subsea system operation of one or more wells and the umbilical line attaches to the downhole fiber at a fiber connection. 11. A distributed acoustic system (DAS) comprising:
an interrogator; an umbilical line attached to the interrogator at one end; and a downhole fiber attached to the umbilical line at the end opposite the interrogator. 12. The DAS of claim 11, further comprising an optical amplifier disposed in the umbilical line that is connected to a Raman Pump by a pump laser fiber. 13. The DAS of claim 11, further comprising two optical amplifiers disposed in series in the umbilical line that are each connected to individual Raman Pumps by individual pump laser fibers. 14. The DAS of claim 13, wherein the two optical amplifiers are connected to a Raman Pump by a pump laser fiber. 15. The DAS of claim 11, further comprising a proximal circulator, a distal circulator connected to the proximal circulator by a first fiber optic cable, a second fiber optic cable connecting the proximal circulator and the distal circulator, and wherein the proximal circulator, the distal circulator, the first fiber optic cable, and the second fiber optic cable are disposed in the umbilical line. 16. The DAS of claim 15, further comprising a first optical amplifier disposed on the first fiber optic cable between the proximal circulator and the distal circulator. 17. The DAS of claim 16, further comprising a second optical amplifier disposed on the second fiber optic cable between the proximal circulator and the distal circulator. 18. The DAS of claim 17, wherein the first optical amplifier is connected to a first Raman Pump by a first pump laser fiber and the second optical amplifier is connected to a second Raman Pump by a second pump laser fiber. 19. The DAS of claim 17, wherein the first optical amplifier and the second optical amplifier is connected to a Raman Pump by a pump laser fiber. 20. The DAS of claim 15, further comprising an optical amplifier disposed on the second fiber optic cable between the proximal circulator and the distal circulator. | 2,800 |
349,352 | 16,806,943 | 2,875 | The present disclosure relates generally to Internet of Things (IoT)-type devices and, more particularly, to infrastructure for validating updates via a network of IoT-type devices. | 1. A method, comprising:
communicating signals and/or signal packets comprising content representative of at least a subset of a plurality of new versions of particular executable code to be deployed at a plurality of electronic devices between a server computing device and the plurality of electronic devices; obtaining at the server computing device from the plurality of electronic devices electronic content descriptive of one or more aspects of electronic device operation and/or performance responsive at least in part to a plurality of levels of testing for the plurality of new versions of the particular executable code; and selecting one or more particular new versions of the particular executable code of the plurality of new versions of the particular executable code based at least in part on the electronic content descriptive of the one or more aspects of electronic device operation and/or performance obtained from the plurality of electronic devices. 2. The method of claim 1, wherein the plurality of electronic devices comprise Internet of Things (IoT)-type devices. 3. The method of claim 1, wherein the obtaining the electronic content descriptive of electronic device operation and/or performance from the plurality of electronic devices includes obtaining a first portion of electronic content responsive to a first level of testing of the plurality of new versions of the particular executable code and further includes obtaining a second portion of electronic content responsive to a second level of testing of the plurality of new versions of the particular executable code. 4. The method of claim 1, further comprising generating, via execution of an evolutionary and/or genetic process at the server computing device, the plurality of new versions of the particular executable code. 5. The method of claim 4, wherein the communicating the signals and/or signal packets comprising the content representative of the plurality of new versions of the particular executable code between the server computing device and the plurality of electronic devices includes deploying particular new versions of the particular executable code to multiple electronic devices of the plurality of electronic devices. 6. The method of claim 1, further comprising performing initial testing of the plurality of new versions of the particular executable code at the server computing device to determine which of the plurality of new versions of the particular executable code are to be deployed to the plurality of electronic devices. 7. The method of claim 1, wherein the plurality of levels of testing include shorter-term and longer-term testing of particular proposed solutions of the plurality of new versions of the particular executable code. 8. The method of claim 1, further comprising generating a subsequent plurality of new versions of the particular executable code based at least in part on the electronic content descriptive of electronic device operation and/or performance obtained from the plurality of electronic devices. 9. The method of claim 8, further comprising:
deploying the subsequent plurality of new versions of the particular executable code to a second plurality of electronic devices; and obtaining at the server computing device from the second plurality of electronic devices electronic content descriptive of electronic device operation and/or performance responsive at least in part to an additional plurality of levels of testing for the subsequent plurality of new versions of the particular executable code. 10. An apparatus, comprising: a server computing device to include:
a processor to initiate communication of signals and/or signal packets comprising content representative of at least a subset of a plurality of new versions of particular executable code to be deployed at a plurality of electronic devices between the server computing device and the plurality of electronic devices; wherein the processor further to obtain from the plurality of electronic devices, via a communication interface of the server computing device, electronic content descriptive of electronic device operation and/or performance responsive at least in part to a plurality of levels of testing for the plurality of new versions of the particular executable code; and wherein the processor further to select one or more particular new versions of the particular executable code of the plurality of new versions of the particular executable code based at least in part on the electronic content descriptive of the one or more aspects of electronic device operation and/or performance obtained from the plurality of electronic devices. 11. The apparatus of claim 10, wherein the plurality of electronic devices to comprise Internet of Things (IoT)-type devices. 12. The apparatus of claim 10, wherein to obtain the electronic content descriptive of electronic device operation and/or performance from the plurality of electronic devices, the processor to obtain a first portion of electronic content responsive to a first level of testing of the plurality of new versions of the particular executable code and further to obtain a second portion of electronic content responsive to a second level of testing of the plurality of new versions of the particular executable code. 13. The apparatus of claim 12, wherein the first level of testing to comprise shorter-term testing and wherein the second level of testing to comprise longer-term testing. 14. The apparatus of claim 10, wherein the processor further to generate, via execution of an evolutionary and/or genetic process, the plurality of new versions of the particular executable code. 15. The apparatus of claim 10, wherein, to initiate communication of the signals and/or signal packets to comprise content representative of the at least the subset of the plurality of new versions of the particular executable code, the processor to initiate deployment of particular new versions of the particular executable code of the plurality of new versions of the particular executable code to multiple particular electronic devices of the plurality of electronic devices. 16. The apparatus of claim 10, wherein the processor further to perform initial testing of the plurality of new versions of the particular executable code to determine which of the plurality of new versions of the particular executable code are to be deployed to the plurality of electronic devices. 17. The apparatus of claim 10, wherein the plurality of levels of testing to include shorter-term and longer-term testing of particular new versions of the particular executable code of the plurality of new versions of the particular executable code, wherein the shorter-term testing to be performed at the plurality of electronic devices and wherein the longer-term testing to be performed at a subset of the plurality of electronic devices. 18. The apparatus of claim 10, wherein the processor further to generate a subsequent plurality of new versions of the particular executable code based at least in part on the electronic content descriptive of electronic device operation and/or performance obtained from the plurality of electronic devices. 19. The apparatus of claim 18, wherein the processor further to:
initiate deployment of the subsequent plurality of new versions of the particular executable code to a second plurality of electronic devices; and obtain from the second plurality of electronic devices electronic content descriptive of electronic device operation and/or performance responsive at least in part to an additional plurality of levels of testing for the subsequent plurality of new versions of the particular executable code. 20. An article, comprising: a storage medium having stored thereon instructions executable by a computing device to:
initiate communication of signals and/or signal packets comprising content representative of at least a subset of a plurality of new versions of particular executable code to be deployed at a plurality of electronic devices between the computing device and the plurality of electronic devices; obtain from the plurality of electronic devices electronic content descriptive of electronic device operation and/or performance responsive at least in part to a plurality of levels of testing for the plurality of new versions of the particular executable code; and select one or more particular new versions of the particular executable code of the plurality of new versions of the particular executable code based at least in part on the electronic content descriptive of the one or more aspects of electronic device operation and/or performance obtained from the plurality of electronic devices. | The present disclosure relates generally to Internet of Things (IoT)-type devices and, more particularly, to infrastructure for validating updates via a network of IoT-type devices.1. A method, comprising:
communicating signals and/or signal packets comprising content representative of at least a subset of a plurality of new versions of particular executable code to be deployed at a plurality of electronic devices between a server computing device and the plurality of electronic devices; obtaining at the server computing device from the plurality of electronic devices electronic content descriptive of one or more aspects of electronic device operation and/or performance responsive at least in part to a plurality of levels of testing for the plurality of new versions of the particular executable code; and selecting one or more particular new versions of the particular executable code of the plurality of new versions of the particular executable code based at least in part on the electronic content descriptive of the one or more aspects of electronic device operation and/or performance obtained from the plurality of electronic devices. 2. The method of claim 1, wherein the plurality of electronic devices comprise Internet of Things (IoT)-type devices. 3. The method of claim 1, wherein the obtaining the electronic content descriptive of electronic device operation and/or performance from the plurality of electronic devices includes obtaining a first portion of electronic content responsive to a first level of testing of the plurality of new versions of the particular executable code and further includes obtaining a second portion of electronic content responsive to a second level of testing of the plurality of new versions of the particular executable code. 4. The method of claim 1, further comprising generating, via execution of an evolutionary and/or genetic process at the server computing device, the plurality of new versions of the particular executable code. 5. The method of claim 4, wherein the communicating the signals and/or signal packets comprising the content representative of the plurality of new versions of the particular executable code between the server computing device and the plurality of electronic devices includes deploying particular new versions of the particular executable code to multiple electronic devices of the plurality of electronic devices. 6. The method of claim 1, further comprising performing initial testing of the plurality of new versions of the particular executable code at the server computing device to determine which of the plurality of new versions of the particular executable code are to be deployed to the plurality of electronic devices. 7. The method of claim 1, wherein the plurality of levels of testing include shorter-term and longer-term testing of particular proposed solutions of the plurality of new versions of the particular executable code. 8. The method of claim 1, further comprising generating a subsequent plurality of new versions of the particular executable code based at least in part on the electronic content descriptive of electronic device operation and/or performance obtained from the plurality of electronic devices. 9. The method of claim 8, further comprising:
deploying the subsequent plurality of new versions of the particular executable code to a second plurality of electronic devices; and obtaining at the server computing device from the second plurality of electronic devices electronic content descriptive of electronic device operation and/or performance responsive at least in part to an additional plurality of levels of testing for the subsequent plurality of new versions of the particular executable code. 10. An apparatus, comprising: a server computing device to include:
a processor to initiate communication of signals and/or signal packets comprising content representative of at least a subset of a plurality of new versions of particular executable code to be deployed at a plurality of electronic devices between the server computing device and the plurality of electronic devices; wherein the processor further to obtain from the plurality of electronic devices, via a communication interface of the server computing device, electronic content descriptive of electronic device operation and/or performance responsive at least in part to a plurality of levels of testing for the plurality of new versions of the particular executable code; and wherein the processor further to select one or more particular new versions of the particular executable code of the plurality of new versions of the particular executable code based at least in part on the electronic content descriptive of the one or more aspects of electronic device operation and/or performance obtained from the plurality of electronic devices. 11. The apparatus of claim 10, wherein the plurality of electronic devices to comprise Internet of Things (IoT)-type devices. 12. The apparatus of claim 10, wherein to obtain the electronic content descriptive of electronic device operation and/or performance from the plurality of electronic devices, the processor to obtain a first portion of electronic content responsive to a first level of testing of the plurality of new versions of the particular executable code and further to obtain a second portion of electronic content responsive to a second level of testing of the plurality of new versions of the particular executable code. 13. The apparatus of claim 12, wherein the first level of testing to comprise shorter-term testing and wherein the second level of testing to comprise longer-term testing. 14. The apparatus of claim 10, wherein the processor further to generate, via execution of an evolutionary and/or genetic process, the plurality of new versions of the particular executable code. 15. The apparatus of claim 10, wherein, to initiate communication of the signals and/or signal packets to comprise content representative of the at least the subset of the plurality of new versions of the particular executable code, the processor to initiate deployment of particular new versions of the particular executable code of the plurality of new versions of the particular executable code to multiple particular electronic devices of the plurality of electronic devices. 16. The apparatus of claim 10, wherein the processor further to perform initial testing of the plurality of new versions of the particular executable code to determine which of the plurality of new versions of the particular executable code are to be deployed to the plurality of electronic devices. 17. The apparatus of claim 10, wherein the plurality of levels of testing to include shorter-term and longer-term testing of particular new versions of the particular executable code of the plurality of new versions of the particular executable code, wherein the shorter-term testing to be performed at the plurality of electronic devices and wherein the longer-term testing to be performed at a subset of the plurality of electronic devices. 18. The apparatus of claim 10, wherein the processor further to generate a subsequent plurality of new versions of the particular executable code based at least in part on the electronic content descriptive of electronic device operation and/or performance obtained from the plurality of electronic devices. 19. The apparatus of claim 18, wherein the processor further to:
initiate deployment of the subsequent plurality of new versions of the particular executable code to a second plurality of electronic devices; and obtain from the second plurality of electronic devices electronic content descriptive of electronic device operation and/or performance responsive at least in part to an additional plurality of levels of testing for the subsequent plurality of new versions of the particular executable code. 20. An article, comprising: a storage medium having stored thereon instructions executable by a computing device to:
initiate communication of signals and/or signal packets comprising content representative of at least a subset of a plurality of new versions of particular executable code to be deployed at a plurality of electronic devices between the computing device and the plurality of electronic devices; obtain from the plurality of electronic devices electronic content descriptive of electronic device operation and/or performance responsive at least in part to a plurality of levels of testing for the plurality of new versions of the particular executable code; and select one or more particular new versions of the particular executable code of the plurality of new versions of the particular executable code based at least in part on the electronic content descriptive of the one or more aspects of electronic device operation and/or performance obtained from the plurality of electronic devices. | 2,800 |
349,353 | 16,806,908 | 2,646 | The present disclosure relates generally to Internet of Things (IoT)-type devices and, more particularly, to infrastructure for validating updates via a network of IoT-type devices. | 1. A method, comprising:
communicating signals and/or signal packets comprising content representative of at least a subset of a plurality of new versions of particular executable code to be deployed at a plurality of electronic devices between a server computing device and the plurality of electronic devices; obtaining at the server computing device from the plurality of electronic devices electronic content descriptive of one or more aspects of electronic device operation and/or performance responsive at least in part to a plurality of levels of testing for the plurality of new versions of the particular executable code; and selecting one or more particular new versions of the particular executable code of the plurality of new versions of the particular executable code based at least in part on the electronic content descriptive of the one or more aspects of electronic device operation and/or performance obtained from the plurality of electronic devices. 2. The method of claim 1, wherein the plurality of electronic devices comprise Internet of Things (IoT)-type devices. 3. The method of claim 1, wherein the obtaining the electronic content descriptive of electronic device operation and/or performance from the plurality of electronic devices includes obtaining a first portion of electronic content responsive to a first level of testing of the plurality of new versions of the particular executable code and further includes obtaining a second portion of electronic content responsive to a second level of testing of the plurality of new versions of the particular executable code. 4. The method of claim 1, further comprising generating, via execution of an evolutionary and/or genetic process at the server computing device, the plurality of new versions of the particular executable code. 5. The method of claim 4, wherein the communicating the signals and/or signal packets comprising the content representative of the plurality of new versions of the particular executable code between the server computing device and the plurality of electronic devices includes deploying particular new versions of the particular executable code to multiple electronic devices of the plurality of electronic devices. 6. The method of claim 1, further comprising performing initial testing of the plurality of new versions of the particular executable code at the server computing device to determine which of the plurality of new versions of the particular executable code are to be deployed to the plurality of electronic devices. 7. The method of claim 1, wherein the plurality of levels of testing include shorter-term and longer-term testing of particular proposed solutions of the plurality of new versions of the particular executable code. 8. The method of claim 1, further comprising generating a subsequent plurality of new versions of the particular executable code based at least in part on the electronic content descriptive of electronic device operation and/or performance obtained from the plurality of electronic devices. 9. The method of claim 8, further comprising:
deploying the subsequent plurality of new versions of the particular executable code to a second plurality of electronic devices; and obtaining at the server computing device from the second plurality of electronic devices electronic content descriptive of electronic device operation and/or performance responsive at least in part to an additional plurality of levels of testing for the subsequent plurality of new versions of the particular executable code. 10. An apparatus, comprising: a server computing device to include:
a processor to initiate communication of signals and/or signal packets comprising content representative of at least a subset of a plurality of new versions of particular executable code to be deployed at a plurality of electronic devices between the server computing device and the plurality of electronic devices; wherein the processor further to obtain from the plurality of electronic devices, via a communication interface of the server computing device, electronic content descriptive of electronic device operation and/or performance responsive at least in part to a plurality of levels of testing for the plurality of new versions of the particular executable code; and wherein the processor further to select one or more particular new versions of the particular executable code of the plurality of new versions of the particular executable code based at least in part on the electronic content descriptive of the one or more aspects of electronic device operation and/or performance obtained from the plurality of electronic devices. 11. The apparatus of claim 10, wherein the plurality of electronic devices to comprise Internet of Things (IoT)-type devices. 12. The apparatus of claim 10, wherein to obtain the electronic content descriptive of electronic device operation and/or performance from the plurality of electronic devices, the processor to obtain a first portion of electronic content responsive to a first level of testing of the plurality of new versions of the particular executable code and further to obtain a second portion of electronic content responsive to a second level of testing of the plurality of new versions of the particular executable code. 13. The apparatus of claim 12, wherein the first level of testing to comprise shorter-term testing and wherein the second level of testing to comprise longer-term testing. 14. The apparatus of claim 10, wherein the processor further to generate, via execution of an evolutionary and/or genetic process, the plurality of new versions of the particular executable code. 15. The apparatus of claim 10, wherein, to initiate communication of the signals and/or signal packets to comprise content representative of the at least the subset of the plurality of new versions of the particular executable code, the processor to initiate deployment of particular new versions of the particular executable code of the plurality of new versions of the particular executable code to multiple particular electronic devices of the plurality of electronic devices. 16. The apparatus of claim 10, wherein the processor further to perform initial testing of the plurality of new versions of the particular executable code to determine which of the plurality of new versions of the particular executable code are to be deployed to the plurality of electronic devices. 17. The apparatus of claim 10, wherein the plurality of levels of testing to include shorter-term and longer-term testing of particular new versions of the particular executable code of the plurality of new versions of the particular executable code, wherein the shorter-term testing to be performed at the plurality of electronic devices and wherein the longer-term testing to be performed at a subset of the plurality of electronic devices. 18. The apparatus of claim 10, wherein the processor further to generate a subsequent plurality of new versions of the particular executable code based at least in part on the electronic content descriptive of electronic device operation and/or performance obtained from the plurality of electronic devices. 19. The apparatus of claim 18, wherein the processor further to:
initiate deployment of the subsequent plurality of new versions of the particular executable code to a second plurality of electronic devices; and obtain from the second plurality of electronic devices electronic content descriptive of electronic device operation and/or performance responsive at least in part to an additional plurality of levels of testing for the subsequent plurality of new versions of the particular executable code. 20. An article, comprising: a storage medium having stored thereon instructions executable by a computing device to:
initiate communication of signals and/or signal packets comprising content representative of at least a subset of a plurality of new versions of particular executable code to be deployed at a plurality of electronic devices between the computing device and the plurality of electronic devices; obtain from the plurality of electronic devices electronic content descriptive of electronic device operation and/or performance responsive at least in part to a plurality of levels of testing for the plurality of new versions of the particular executable code; and select one or more particular new versions of the particular executable code of the plurality of new versions of the particular executable code based at least in part on the electronic content descriptive of the one or more aspects of electronic device operation and/or performance obtained from the plurality of electronic devices. | The present disclosure relates generally to Internet of Things (IoT)-type devices and, more particularly, to infrastructure for validating updates via a network of IoT-type devices.1. A method, comprising:
communicating signals and/or signal packets comprising content representative of at least a subset of a plurality of new versions of particular executable code to be deployed at a plurality of electronic devices between a server computing device and the plurality of electronic devices; obtaining at the server computing device from the plurality of electronic devices electronic content descriptive of one or more aspects of electronic device operation and/or performance responsive at least in part to a plurality of levels of testing for the plurality of new versions of the particular executable code; and selecting one or more particular new versions of the particular executable code of the plurality of new versions of the particular executable code based at least in part on the electronic content descriptive of the one or more aspects of electronic device operation and/or performance obtained from the plurality of electronic devices. 2. The method of claim 1, wherein the plurality of electronic devices comprise Internet of Things (IoT)-type devices. 3. The method of claim 1, wherein the obtaining the electronic content descriptive of electronic device operation and/or performance from the plurality of electronic devices includes obtaining a first portion of electronic content responsive to a first level of testing of the plurality of new versions of the particular executable code and further includes obtaining a second portion of electronic content responsive to a second level of testing of the plurality of new versions of the particular executable code. 4. The method of claim 1, further comprising generating, via execution of an evolutionary and/or genetic process at the server computing device, the plurality of new versions of the particular executable code. 5. The method of claim 4, wherein the communicating the signals and/or signal packets comprising the content representative of the plurality of new versions of the particular executable code between the server computing device and the plurality of electronic devices includes deploying particular new versions of the particular executable code to multiple electronic devices of the plurality of electronic devices. 6. The method of claim 1, further comprising performing initial testing of the plurality of new versions of the particular executable code at the server computing device to determine which of the plurality of new versions of the particular executable code are to be deployed to the plurality of electronic devices. 7. The method of claim 1, wherein the plurality of levels of testing include shorter-term and longer-term testing of particular proposed solutions of the plurality of new versions of the particular executable code. 8. The method of claim 1, further comprising generating a subsequent plurality of new versions of the particular executable code based at least in part on the electronic content descriptive of electronic device operation and/or performance obtained from the plurality of electronic devices. 9. The method of claim 8, further comprising:
deploying the subsequent plurality of new versions of the particular executable code to a second plurality of electronic devices; and obtaining at the server computing device from the second plurality of electronic devices electronic content descriptive of electronic device operation and/or performance responsive at least in part to an additional plurality of levels of testing for the subsequent plurality of new versions of the particular executable code. 10. An apparatus, comprising: a server computing device to include:
a processor to initiate communication of signals and/or signal packets comprising content representative of at least a subset of a plurality of new versions of particular executable code to be deployed at a plurality of electronic devices between the server computing device and the plurality of electronic devices; wherein the processor further to obtain from the plurality of electronic devices, via a communication interface of the server computing device, electronic content descriptive of electronic device operation and/or performance responsive at least in part to a plurality of levels of testing for the plurality of new versions of the particular executable code; and wherein the processor further to select one or more particular new versions of the particular executable code of the plurality of new versions of the particular executable code based at least in part on the electronic content descriptive of the one or more aspects of electronic device operation and/or performance obtained from the plurality of electronic devices. 11. The apparatus of claim 10, wherein the plurality of electronic devices to comprise Internet of Things (IoT)-type devices. 12. The apparatus of claim 10, wherein to obtain the electronic content descriptive of electronic device operation and/or performance from the plurality of electronic devices, the processor to obtain a first portion of electronic content responsive to a first level of testing of the plurality of new versions of the particular executable code and further to obtain a second portion of electronic content responsive to a second level of testing of the plurality of new versions of the particular executable code. 13. The apparatus of claim 12, wherein the first level of testing to comprise shorter-term testing and wherein the second level of testing to comprise longer-term testing. 14. The apparatus of claim 10, wherein the processor further to generate, via execution of an evolutionary and/or genetic process, the plurality of new versions of the particular executable code. 15. The apparatus of claim 10, wherein, to initiate communication of the signals and/or signal packets to comprise content representative of the at least the subset of the plurality of new versions of the particular executable code, the processor to initiate deployment of particular new versions of the particular executable code of the plurality of new versions of the particular executable code to multiple particular electronic devices of the plurality of electronic devices. 16. The apparatus of claim 10, wherein the processor further to perform initial testing of the plurality of new versions of the particular executable code to determine which of the plurality of new versions of the particular executable code are to be deployed to the plurality of electronic devices. 17. The apparatus of claim 10, wherein the plurality of levels of testing to include shorter-term and longer-term testing of particular new versions of the particular executable code of the plurality of new versions of the particular executable code, wherein the shorter-term testing to be performed at the plurality of electronic devices and wherein the longer-term testing to be performed at a subset of the plurality of electronic devices. 18. The apparatus of claim 10, wherein the processor further to generate a subsequent plurality of new versions of the particular executable code based at least in part on the electronic content descriptive of electronic device operation and/or performance obtained from the plurality of electronic devices. 19. The apparatus of claim 18, wherein the processor further to:
initiate deployment of the subsequent plurality of new versions of the particular executable code to a second plurality of electronic devices; and obtain from the second plurality of electronic devices electronic content descriptive of electronic device operation and/or performance responsive at least in part to an additional plurality of levels of testing for the subsequent plurality of new versions of the particular executable code. 20. An article, comprising: a storage medium having stored thereon instructions executable by a computing device to:
initiate communication of signals and/or signal packets comprising content representative of at least a subset of a plurality of new versions of particular executable code to be deployed at a plurality of electronic devices between the computing device and the plurality of electronic devices; obtain from the plurality of electronic devices electronic content descriptive of electronic device operation and/or performance responsive at least in part to a plurality of levels of testing for the plurality of new versions of the particular executable code; and select one or more particular new versions of the particular executable code of the plurality of new versions of the particular executable code based at least in part on the electronic content descriptive of the one or more aspects of electronic device operation and/or performance obtained from the plurality of electronic devices. | 2,600 |
349,354 | 16,806,918 | 2,646 | The present disclosure relates generally to Internet of Things (IoT)-type devices and, more particularly, to infrastructure for validating updates via a network of IoT-type devices. | 1. A method, comprising:
communicating signals and/or signal packets comprising content representative of at least a subset of a plurality of new versions of particular executable code to be deployed at a plurality of electronic devices between a server computing device and the plurality of electronic devices; obtaining at the server computing device from the plurality of electronic devices electronic content descriptive of one or more aspects of electronic device operation and/or performance responsive at least in part to a plurality of levels of testing for the plurality of new versions of the particular executable code; and selecting one or more particular new versions of the particular executable code of the plurality of new versions of the particular executable code based at least in part on the electronic content descriptive of the one or more aspects of electronic device operation and/or performance obtained from the plurality of electronic devices. 2. The method of claim 1, wherein the plurality of electronic devices comprise Internet of Things (IoT)-type devices. 3. The method of claim 1, wherein the obtaining the electronic content descriptive of electronic device operation and/or performance from the plurality of electronic devices includes obtaining a first portion of electronic content responsive to a first level of testing of the plurality of new versions of the particular executable code and further includes obtaining a second portion of electronic content responsive to a second level of testing of the plurality of new versions of the particular executable code. 4. The method of claim 1, further comprising generating, via execution of an evolutionary and/or genetic process at the server computing device, the plurality of new versions of the particular executable code. 5. The method of claim 4, wherein the communicating the signals and/or signal packets comprising the content representative of the plurality of new versions of the particular executable code between the server computing device and the plurality of electronic devices includes deploying particular new versions of the particular executable code to multiple electronic devices of the plurality of electronic devices. 6. The method of claim 1, further comprising performing initial testing of the plurality of new versions of the particular executable code at the server computing device to determine which of the plurality of new versions of the particular executable code are to be deployed to the plurality of electronic devices. 7. The method of claim 1, wherein the plurality of levels of testing include shorter-term and longer-term testing of particular proposed solutions of the plurality of new versions of the particular executable code. 8. The method of claim 1, further comprising generating a subsequent plurality of new versions of the particular executable code based at least in part on the electronic content descriptive of electronic device operation and/or performance obtained from the plurality of electronic devices. 9. The method of claim 8, further comprising:
deploying the subsequent plurality of new versions of the particular executable code to a second plurality of electronic devices; and obtaining at the server computing device from the second plurality of electronic devices electronic content descriptive of electronic device operation and/or performance responsive at least in part to an additional plurality of levels of testing for the subsequent plurality of new versions of the particular executable code. 10. An apparatus, comprising: a server computing device to include:
a processor to initiate communication of signals and/or signal packets comprising content representative of at least a subset of a plurality of new versions of particular executable code to be deployed at a plurality of electronic devices between the server computing device and the plurality of electronic devices; wherein the processor further to obtain from the plurality of electronic devices, via a communication interface of the server computing device, electronic content descriptive of electronic device operation and/or performance responsive at least in part to a plurality of levels of testing for the plurality of new versions of the particular executable code; and wherein the processor further to select one or more particular new versions of the particular executable code of the plurality of new versions of the particular executable code based at least in part on the electronic content descriptive of the one or more aspects of electronic device operation and/or performance obtained from the plurality of electronic devices. 11. The apparatus of claim 10, wherein the plurality of electronic devices to comprise Internet of Things (IoT)-type devices. 12. The apparatus of claim 10, wherein to obtain the electronic content descriptive of electronic device operation and/or performance from the plurality of electronic devices, the processor to obtain a first portion of electronic content responsive to a first level of testing of the plurality of new versions of the particular executable code and further to obtain a second portion of electronic content responsive to a second level of testing of the plurality of new versions of the particular executable code. 13. The apparatus of claim 12, wherein the first level of testing to comprise shorter-term testing and wherein the second level of testing to comprise longer-term testing. 14. The apparatus of claim 10, wherein the processor further to generate, via execution of an evolutionary and/or genetic process, the plurality of new versions of the particular executable code. 15. The apparatus of claim 10, wherein, to initiate communication of the signals and/or signal packets to comprise content representative of the at least the subset of the plurality of new versions of the particular executable code, the processor to initiate deployment of particular new versions of the particular executable code of the plurality of new versions of the particular executable code to multiple particular electronic devices of the plurality of electronic devices. 16. The apparatus of claim 10, wherein the processor further to perform initial testing of the plurality of new versions of the particular executable code to determine which of the plurality of new versions of the particular executable code are to be deployed to the plurality of electronic devices. 17. The apparatus of claim 10, wherein the plurality of levels of testing to include shorter-term and longer-term testing of particular new versions of the particular executable code of the plurality of new versions of the particular executable code, wherein the shorter-term testing to be performed at the plurality of electronic devices and wherein the longer-term testing to be performed at a subset of the plurality of electronic devices. 18. The apparatus of claim 10, wherein the processor further to generate a subsequent plurality of new versions of the particular executable code based at least in part on the electronic content descriptive of electronic device operation and/or performance obtained from the plurality of electronic devices. 19. The apparatus of claim 18, wherein the processor further to:
initiate deployment of the subsequent plurality of new versions of the particular executable code to a second plurality of electronic devices; and obtain from the second plurality of electronic devices electronic content descriptive of electronic device operation and/or performance responsive at least in part to an additional plurality of levels of testing for the subsequent plurality of new versions of the particular executable code. 20. An article, comprising: a storage medium having stored thereon instructions executable by a computing device to:
initiate communication of signals and/or signal packets comprising content representative of at least a subset of a plurality of new versions of particular executable code to be deployed at a plurality of electronic devices between the computing device and the plurality of electronic devices; obtain from the plurality of electronic devices electronic content descriptive of electronic device operation and/or performance responsive at least in part to a plurality of levels of testing for the plurality of new versions of the particular executable code; and select one or more particular new versions of the particular executable code of the plurality of new versions of the particular executable code based at least in part on the electronic content descriptive of the one or more aspects of electronic device operation and/or performance obtained from the plurality of electronic devices. | The present disclosure relates generally to Internet of Things (IoT)-type devices and, more particularly, to infrastructure for validating updates via a network of IoT-type devices.1. A method, comprising:
communicating signals and/or signal packets comprising content representative of at least a subset of a plurality of new versions of particular executable code to be deployed at a plurality of electronic devices between a server computing device and the plurality of electronic devices; obtaining at the server computing device from the plurality of electronic devices electronic content descriptive of one or more aspects of electronic device operation and/or performance responsive at least in part to a plurality of levels of testing for the plurality of new versions of the particular executable code; and selecting one or more particular new versions of the particular executable code of the plurality of new versions of the particular executable code based at least in part on the electronic content descriptive of the one or more aspects of electronic device operation and/or performance obtained from the plurality of electronic devices. 2. The method of claim 1, wherein the plurality of electronic devices comprise Internet of Things (IoT)-type devices. 3. The method of claim 1, wherein the obtaining the electronic content descriptive of electronic device operation and/or performance from the plurality of electronic devices includes obtaining a first portion of electronic content responsive to a first level of testing of the plurality of new versions of the particular executable code and further includes obtaining a second portion of electronic content responsive to a second level of testing of the plurality of new versions of the particular executable code. 4. The method of claim 1, further comprising generating, via execution of an evolutionary and/or genetic process at the server computing device, the plurality of new versions of the particular executable code. 5. The method of claim 4, wherein the communicating the signals and/or signal packets comprising the content representative of the plurality of new versions of the particular executable code between the server computing device and the plurality of electronic devices includes deploying particular new versions of the particular executable code to multiple electronic devices of the plurality of electronic devices. 6. The method of claim 1, further comprising performing initial testing of the plurality of new versions of the particular executable code at the server computing device to determine which of the plurality of new versions of the particular executable code are to be deployed to the plurality of electronic devices. 7. The method of claim 1, wherein the plurality of levels of testing include shorter-term and longer-term testing of particular proposed solutions of the plurality of new versions of the particular executable code. 8. The method of claim 1, further comprising generating a subsequent plurality of new versions of the particular executable code based at least in part on the electronic content descriptive of electronic device operation and/or performance obtained from the plurality of electronic devices. 9. The method of claim 8, further comprising:
deploying the subsequent plurality of new versions of the particular executable code to a second plurality of electronic devices; and obtaining at the server computing device from the second plurality of electronic devices electronic content descriptive of electronic device operation and/or performance responsive at least in part to an additional plurality of levels of testing for the subsequent plurality of new versions of the particular executable code. 10. An apparatus, comprising: a server computing device to include:
a processor to initiate communication of signals and/or signal packets comprising content representative of at least a subset of a plurality of new versions of particular executable code to be deployed at a plurality of electronic devices between the server computing device and the plurality of electronic devices; wherein the processor further to obtain from the plurality of electronic devices, via a communication interface of the server computing device, electronic content descriptive of electronic device operation and/or performance responsive at least in part to a plurality of levels of testing for the plurality of new versions of the particular executable code; and wherein the processor further to select one or more particular new versions of the particular executable code of the plurality of new versions of the particular executable code based at least in part on the electronic content descriptive of the one or more aspects of electronic device operation and/or performance obtained from the plurality of electronic devices. 11. The apparatus of claim 10, wherein the plurality of electronic devices to comprise Internet of Things (IoT)-type devices. 12. The apparatus of claim 10, wherein to obtain the electronic content descriptive of electronic device operation and/or performance from the plurality of electronic devices, the processor to obtain a first portion of electronic content responsive to a first level of testing of the plurality of new versions of the particular executable code and further to obtain a second portion of electronic content responsive to a second level of testing of the plurality of new versions of the particular executable code. 13. The apparatus of claim 12, wherein the first level of testing to comprise shorter-term testing and wherein the second level of testing to comprise longer-term testing. 14. The apparatus of claim 10, wherein the processor further to generate, via execution of an evolutionary and/or genetic process, the plurality of new versions of the particular executable code. 15. The apparatus of claim 10, wherein, to initiate communication of the signals and/or signal packets to comprise content representative of the at least the subset of the plurality of new versions of the particular executable code, the processor to initiate deployment of particular new versions of the particular executable code of the plurality of new versions of the particular executable code to multiple particular electronic devices of the plurality of electronic devices. 16. The apparatus of claim 10, wherein the processor further to perform initial testing of the plurality of new versions of the particular executable code to determine which of the plurality of new versions of the particular executable code are to be deployed to the plurality of electronic devices. 17. The apparatus of claim 10, wherein the plurality of levels of testing to include shorter-term and longer-term testing of particular new versions of the particular executable code of the plurality of new versions of the particular executable code, wherein the shorter-term testing to be performed at the plurality of electronic devices and wherein the longer-term testing to be performed at a subset of the plurality of electronic devices. 18. The apparatus of claim 10, wherein the processor further to generate a subsequent plurality of new versions of the particular executable code based at least in part on the electronic content descriptive of electronic device operation and/or performance obtained from the plurality of electronic devices. 19. The apparatus of claim 18, wherein the processor further to:
initiate deployment of the subsequent plurality of new versions of the particular executable code to a second plurality of electronic devices; and obtain from the second plurality of electronic devices electronic content descriptive of electronic device operation and/or performance responsive at least in part to an additional plurality of levels of testing for the subsequent plurality of new versions of the particular executable code. 20. An article, comprising: a storage medium having stored thereon instructions executable by a computing device to:
initiate communication of signals and/or signal packets comprising content representative of at least a subset of a plurality of new versions of particular executable code to be deployed at a plurality of electronic devices between the computing device and the plurality of electronic devices; obtain from the plurality of electronic devices electronic content descriptive of electronic device operation and/or performance responsive at least in part to a plurality of levels of testing for the plurality of new versions of the particular executable code; and select one or more particular new versions of the particular executable code of the plurality of new versions of the particular executable code based at least in part on the electronic content descriptive of the one or more aspects of electronic device operation and/or performance obtained from the plurality of electronic devices. | 2,600 |
349,355 | 16,806,942 | 2,646 | The present disclosure relates generally to Internet of Things (IoT)-type devices and, more particularly, to infrastructure for validating updates via a network of IoT-type devices. | 1. A method, comprising:
communicating signals and/or signal packets comprising content representative of at least a subset of a plurality of new versions of particular executable code to be deployed at a plurality of electronic devices between a server computing device and the plurality of electronic devices; obtaining at the server computing device from the plurality of electronic devices electronic content descriptive of one or more aspects of electronic device operation and/or performance responsive at least in part to a plurality of levels of testing for the plurality of new versions of the particular executable code; and selecting one or more particular new versions of the particular executable code of the plurality of new versions of the particular executable code based at least in part on the electronic content descriptive of the one or more aspects of electronic device operation and/or performance obtained from the plurality of electronic devices. 2. The method of claim 1, wherein the plurality of electronic devices comprise Internet of Things (IoT)-type devices. 3. The method of claim 1, wherein the obtaining the electronic content descriptive of electronic device operation and/or performance from the plurality of electronic devices includes obtaining a first portion of electronic content responsive to a first level of testing of the plurality of new versions of the particular executable code and further includes obtaining a second portion of electronic content responsive to a second level of testing of the plurality of new versions of the particular executable code. 4. The method of claim 1, further comprising generating, via execution of an evolutionary and/or genetic process at the server computing device, the plurality of new versions of the particular executable code. 5. The method of claim 4, wherein the communicating the signals and/or signal packets comprising the content representative of the plurality of new versions of the particular executable code between the server computing device and the plurality of electronic devices includes deploying particular new versions of the particular executable code to multiple electronic devices of the plurality of electronic devices. 6. The method of claim 1, further comprising performing initial testing of the plurality of new versions of the particular executable code at the server computing device to determine which of the plurality of new versions of the particular executable code are to be deployed to the plurality of electronic devices. 7. The method of claim 1, wherein the plurality of levels of testing include shorter-term and longer-term testing of particular proposed solutions of the plurality of new versions of the particular executable code. 8. The method of claim 1, further comprising generating a subsequent plurality of new versions of the particular executable code based at least in part on the electronic content descriptive of electronic device operation and/or performance obtained from the plurality of electronic devices. 9. The method of claim 8, further comprising:
deploying the subsequent plurality of new versions of the particular executable code to a second plurality of electronic devices; and obtaining at the server computing device from the second plurality of electronic devices electronic content descriptive of electronic device operation and/or performance responsive at least in part to an additional plurality of levels of testing for the subsequent plurality of new versions of the particular executable code. 10. An apparatus, comprising: a server computing device to include:
a processor to initiate communication of signals and/or signal packets comprising content representative of at least a subset of a plurality of new versions of particular executable code to be deployed at a plurality of electronic devices between the server computing device and the plurality of electronic devices; wherein the processor further to obtain from the plurality of electronic devices, via a communication interface of the server computing device, electronic content descriptive of electronic device operation and/or performance responsive at least in part to a plurality of levels of testing for the plurality of new versions of the particular executable code; and wherein the processor further to select one or more particular new versions of the particular executable code of the plurality of new versions of the particular executable code based at least in part on the electronic content descriptive of the one or more aspects of electronic device operation and/or performance obtained from the plurality of electronic devices. 11. The apparatus of claim 10, wherein the plurality of electronic devices to comprise Internet of Things (IoT)-type devices. 12. The apparatus of claim 10, wherein to obtain the electronic content descriptive of electronic device operation and/or performance from the plurality of electronic devices, the processor to obtain a first portion of electronic content responsive to a first level of testing of the plurality of new versions of the particular executable code and further to obtain a second portion of electronic content responsive to a second level of testing of the plurality of new versions of the particular executable code. 13. The apparatus of claim 12, wherein the first level of testing to comprise shorter-term testing and wherein the second level of testing to comprise longer-term testing. 14. The apparatus of claim 10, wherein the processor further to generate, via execution of an evolutionary and/or genetic process, the plurality of new versions of the particular executable code. 15. The apparatus of claim 10, wherein, to initiate communication of the signals and/or signal packets to comprise content representative of the at least the subset of the plurality of new versions of the particular executable code, the processor to initiate deployment of particular new versions of the particular executable code of the plurality of new versions of the particular executable code to multiple particular electronic devices of the plurality of electronic devices. 16. The apparatus of claim 10, wherein the processor further to perform initial testing of the plurality of new versions of the particular executable code to determine which of the plurality of new versions of the particular executable code are to be deployed to the plurality of electronic devices. 17. The apparatus of claim 10, wherein the plurality of levels of testing to include shorter-term and longer-term testing of particular new versions of the particular executable code of the plurality of new versions of the particular executable code, wherein the shorter-term testing to be performed at the plurality of electronic devices and wherein the longer-term testing to be performed at a subset of the plurality of electronic devices. 18. The apparatus of claim 10, wherein the processor further to generate a subsequent plurality of new versions of the particular executable code based at least in part on the electronic content descriptive of electronic device operation and/or performance obtained from the plurality of electronic devices. 19. The apparatus of claim 18, wherein the processor further to:
initiate deployment of the subsequent plurality of new versions of the particular executable code to a second plurality of electronic devices; and obtain from the second plurality of electronic devices electronic content descriptive of electronic device operation and/or performance responsive at least in part to an additional plurality of levels of testing for the subsequent plurality of new versions of the particular executable code. 20. An article, comprising: a storage medium having stored thereon instructions executable by a computing device to:
initiate communication of signals and/or signal packets comprising content representative of at least a subset of a plurality of new versions of particular executable code to be deployed at a plurality of electronic devices between the computing device and the plurality of electronic devices; obtain from the plurality of electronic devices electronic content descriptive of electronic device operation and/or performance responsive at least in part to a plurality of levels of testing for the plurality of new versions of the particular executable code; and select one or more particular new versions of the particular executable code of the plurality of new versions of the particular executable code based at least in part on the electronic content descriptive of the one or more aspects of electronic device operation and/or performance obtained from the plurality of electronic devices. | The present disclosure relates generally to Internet of Things (IoT)-type devices and, more particularly, to infrastructure for validating updates via a network of IoT-type devices.1. A method, comprising:
communicating signals and/or signal packets comprising content representative of at least a subset of a plurality of new versions of particular executable code to be deployed at a plurality of electronic devices between a server computing device and the plurality of electronic devices; obtaining at the server computing device from the plurality of electronic devices electronic content descriptive of one or more aspects of electronic device operation and/or performance responsive at least in part to a plurality of levels of testing for the plurality of new versions of the particular executable code; and selecting one or more particular new versions of the particular executable code of the plurality of new versions of the particular executable code based at least in part on the electronic content descriptive of the one or more aspects of electronic device operation and/or performance obtained from the plurality of electronic devices. 2. The method of claim 1, wherein the plurality of electronic devices comprise Internet of Things (IoT)-type devices. 3. The method of claim 1, wherein the obtaining the electronic content descriptive of electronic device operation and/or performance from the plurality of electronic devices includes obtaining a first portion of electronic content responsive to a first level of testing of the plurality of new versions of the particular executable code and further includes obtaining a second portion of electronic content responsive to a second level of testing of the plurality of new versions of the particular executable code. 4. The method of claim 1, further comprising generating, via execution of an evolutionary and/or genetic process at the server computing device, the plurality of new versions of the particular executable code. 5. The method of claim 4, wherein the communicating the signals and/or signal packets comprising the content representative of the plurality of new versions of the particular executable code between the server computing device and the plurality of electronic devices includes deploying particular new versions of the particular executable code to multiple electronic devices of the plurality of electronic devices. 6. The method of claim 1, further comprising performing initial testing of the plurality of new versions of the particular executable code at the server computing device to determine which of the plurality of new versions of the particular executable code are to be deployed to the plurality of electronic devices. 7. The method of claim 1, wherein the plurality of levels of testing include shorter-term and longer-term testing of particular proposed solutions of the plurality of new versions of the particular executable code. 8. The method of claim 1, further comprising generating a subsequent plurality of new versions of the particular executable code based at least in part on the electronic content descriptive of electronic device operation and/or performance obtained from the plurality of electronic devices. 9. The method of claim 8, further comprising:
deploying the subsequent plurality of new versions of the particular executable code to a second plurality of electronic devices; and obtaining at the server computing device from the second plurality of electronic devices electronic content descriptive of electronic device operation and/or performance responsive at least in part to an additional plurality of levels of testing for the subsequent plurality of new versions of the particular executable code. 10. An apparatus, comprising: a server computing device to include:
a processor to initiate communication of signals and/or signal packets comprising content representative of at least a subset of a plurality of new versions of particular executable code to be deployed at a plurality of electronic devices between the server computing device and the plurality of electronic devices; wherein the processor further to obtain from the plurality of electronic devices, via a communication interface of the server computing device, electronic content descriptive of electronic device operation and/or performance responsive at least in part to a plurality of levels of testing for the plurality of new versions of the particular executable code; and wherein the processor further to select one or more particular new versions of the particular executable code of the plurality of new versions of the particular executable code based at least in part on the electronic content descriptive of the one or more aspects of electronic device operation and/or performance obtained from the plurality of electronic devices. 11. The apparatus of claim 10, wherein the plurality of electronic devices to comprise Internet of Things (IoT)-type devices. 12. The apparatus of claim 10, wherein to obtain the electronic content descriptive of electronic device operation and/or performance from the plurality of electronic devices, the processor to obtain a first portion of electronic content responsive to a first level of testing of the plurality of new versions of the particular executable code and further to obtain a second portion of electronic content responsive to a second level of testing of the plurality of new versions of the particular executable code. 13. The apparatus of claim 12, wherein the first level of testing to comprise shorter-term testing and wherein the second level of testing to comprise longer-term testing. 14. The apparatus of claim 10, wherein the processor further to generate, via execution of an evolutionary and/or genetic process, the plurality of new versions of the particular executable code. 15. The apparatus of claim 10, wherein, to initiate communication of the signals and/or signal packets to comprise content representative of the at least the subset of the plurality of new versions of the particular executable code, the processor to initiate deployment of particular new versions of the particular executable code of the plurality of new versions of the particular executable code to multiple particular electronic devices of the plurality of electronic devices. 16. The apparatus of claim 10, wherein the processor further to perform initial testing of the plurality of new versions of the particular executable code to determine which of the plurality of new versions of the particular executable code are to be deployed to the plurality of electronic devices. 17. The apparatus of claim 10, wherein the plurality of levels of testing to include shorter-term and longer-term testing of particular new versions of the particular executable code of the plurality of new versions of the particular executable code, wherein the shorter-term testing to be performed at the plurality of electronic devices and wherein the longer-term testing to be performed at a subset of the plurality of electronic devices. 18. The apparatus of claim 10, wherein the processor further to generate a subsequent plurality of new versions of the particular executable code based at least in part on the electronic content descriptive of electronic device operation and/or performance obtained from the plurality of electronic devices. 19. The apparatus of claim 18, wherein the processor further to:
initiate deployment of the subsequent plurality of new versions of the particular executable code to a second plurality of electronic devices; and obtain from the second plurality of electronic devices electronic content descriptive of electronic device operation and/or performance responsive at least in part to an additional plurality of levels of testing for the subsequent plurality of new versions of the particular executable code. 20. An article, comprising: a storage medium having stored thereon instructions executable by a computing device to:
initiate communication of signals and/or signal packets comprising content representative of at least a subset of a plurality of new versions of particular executable code to be deployed at a plurality of electronic devices between the computing device and the plurality of electronic devices; obtain from the plurality of electronic devices electronic content descriptive of electronic device operation and/or performance responsive at least in part to a plurality of levels of testing for the plurality of new versions of the particular executable code; and select one or more particular new versions of the particular executable code of the plurality of new versions of the particular executable code based at least in part on the electronic content descriptive of the one or more aspects of electronic device operation and/or performance obtained from the plurality of electronic devices. | 2,600 |
349,356 | 16,806,971 | 3,753 | A hand drying apparatus includes an outer case and a squeezing and dispensing arrangement. The squeezing and dispensing arrangement includes a first supporting panel, a second supporting panel which is spacedly apart from the first supporting panel, and a plurality of driving rotors rotatably supported in the outer case for driving the fabric towel to move in a predetermined direction. The hand drying apparatus is operated between an idle mode and a drying mode, wherein in the idle mode, the first supporting panel and the second supporting panel are positioned and retained to space apart from each other, wherein in the drying mode, at least one of the first supporting panel and the second supporting panel is driven to move toward the other supporting panel for allowing the fabric sheet to contact with the user's hand. | 1. A hand drying apparatus for a fabric sheet used for absorbing moisture from a user's hand, said hand drying apparatus comprising:
an outer case; and a squeezing and dispensing arrangement, which comprises: at least a first supporting panel and a second supporting panel provided in said outer case, said second supporting panel being provided in said outer case at a position spaced apart from said first supporting panel to form at least one drying cavity as a space formed between said first supporting panel and said second supporting panel for accommodating said user's hand; and at least one driving rotor rotatably supported in said outer case for driving said fabric sheet to move in a predetermined direction; and a plurality of supporting members provided in said outer casing and positioned to support said fabric sheet between said first supporting panel and said second supporting panel in a slidably movable manner; said hand drying apparatus being operated between an idle mode and a drying mode, wherein in said idle mode, said first supporting panel and said second supporting panel are positioned and retained to space apart from each other, wherein in said drying mode, at least one of said first supporting panel and said second supporting panel is driven to move toward said other supporting panel for allowing said fabric sheet supported on said first supporting panel and said second supporting panel to contact with said user's hand in said drying cavity so as to absorb moisture from said user's hand. 2. The hand drying apparatus, as recited in claim 1, wherein said squeezing and dispensing arrangement further comprise a driving mechanism provided in said outer case for driving at least one of said first supporting panel and said second supporting panel to move toward other of said first supporting panel and said second supporting panel. 3. The hand drying apparatus, as recited in claim 2, wherein at least two supporting members are mounted near two ends of each of said first supporting panel and said second supporting panel wherein said fabric sheet is guided to extend on said first supporting panel and said second supporting panel so as to form a U-shaped configuration of said fabric sheet in said drying cavity. 4. The hand drying apparatus, as recited in claim 3, wherein said squeezing and dispensing arrangement further comprise at least one deformable pad supported on one of said first supporting panel and said second supporting panel for supporting said user's hand. 5. The hand drying apparatus, as recited in claim 4, wherein said outer case further has an access opening for allowing a user to access said drying cavity through said access opening, said access opening being formed at a position corresponding to that of said drying cavity. 6. The hand drying apparatus, as recited in claim 3, wherein said driving mechanism comprises a driving assembly attached to said first supporting panel for driving said first supporting panel to move toward said second supporting panel, said driving assembly comprising at least one threaded rod connected to said first supporting panel and said second supporting panel in such a manner that when said threaded rod is driven to rotate, said first supporting panel is arranged to move along a longitudinal direction of said threaded rod. 7. The hand drying apparatus, as recited in claim 6, wherein said squeezing and dispensing arrangement further comprises a folding arrangement comprising a folding rod moveably mounted in said collecting compartment of said outer case for folding used fabric sheet into a folded stack, said folding rod being arranged to move along a corresponding direction of said outer case so that when said used fabric sheet moves from said drying cavity to said collection compartment, said used fabric sheet is guided to fold into a stack by said movement of said folding rod. 8. The hand drying apparatus, as recited in claim 6, wherein said driving assembly of said driving mechanism further comprises a threaded rod so that at least two threaded rods are used to actuate said first supporting panel and said third supporting panel respectively, one of said threaded rods operatively connecting said first supporting panel to said second supporting panel so as to allow said first supporting panel to selectively and controllably move toward and away from said second supporting panel, said other threaded rod operatively connecting said third supporting panel to said second supporting panel so as to allow said third supporting panel to selectively and controllably move toward and away from said second supporting panel. 9. The hand drying apparatus, as recited in claim 4, wherein said driving assembly comprises at least first through second connecting rods moveably mounted on said first supporting panel and said second supporting panel, wherein said first connecting rod and said second connecting rod are connected on said first supporting panel and said second supporting panel, said first connecting rod having one end pivotally connected to said first supporting panel while said second connecting rod having one end pivotally connected to said second supporting panel, said other end of said first connecting rod being pivotally connected to said other end of said second connecting rod. 10. The hand drying apparatus, as recited in claim 4, wherein said driving assembly comprises at least one pusher device coupled between said first supporting panel and said second supporting panel for selectively and controllably driving said first supporting panel toward and away from said second supporting panel, said pusher device comprising a base connected to said second supporting panel, and a pushing member movably extended from said base and connected to said first supporting panel, in such a manner that when said pushing member extends and retracts with respect to said base, said second supporting member is driven to move away and toward said second supporting panel respectively. 11. The hand drying apparatus, as recited in claim 4, wherein said driving assembly comprises at least one rack and pinion gear provided in said outer case at a position at one side of said first supporting panel and said second supporting panel, said rack and pinion gear comprises a rack gear supported in said outer case and a pinion gear operatively engaged with said rack gear in such a manner that when said pinion gear is driven to rotate, said rotational movement of said pinion gear is arranged to transform into a linear movement thereof along said rack gear, said driving assembly further comprising to a driving shaft connected to said pinion gear and said first supporting panel so that a linear movement of said pinion gear along a longitudinal direction of said rack gear is arranged to drive said first supporting panel to move toward or away from said second supporting panel. 12. The hand drying apparatus, as recited in claim 4, wherein said driving assembly comprises at least one driving wheel, at least one connecting rod movably coupled to said first supporting panel, and at least one resilient element connected to said connecting rod for normally exerting a biasing force against said first supporting panel, said driving wheel having a bulging portion so that when said driving wheel is driven to rotate, said connecting rod is also driven to move in a reciprocating manner so as to move said first supporting panel toward and away from said second supporting panel. 13. The hand drying apparatus, as recited in claim 6, wherein said outer case has a storage compartment for storing cleaned, unused fabric sheet, and a collecting compartment for storing used fabric sheet, said storage compartment being provided on an upper portion of said outer case, while said collecting compartment being provided on a lower portion of said outer case, said squeezing and dispensing arrangement being provided between said storage compartment and said collecting compartment at a mid portion of said outer case. 14. The hand drying apparatus, as recited in claim 6, wherein said collecting compartment is formed at an upper portion of said outer case, while said storage compartment is formed at said mid-portion of said outer case, and said squeezing and dispensing arrangement is provided at said lower portion of said outer case. 15. The hand drying apparatus, as recited in claim 13, wherein said first supporting panel is positioned above said second supporting panel in said outer case, wherein said driving mechanism is configured to drive said first supporting panel to move toward or away from said second supporting panel so as to adjust a size and a volume of said driving cavity. 16. The hand drying apparatus, as recited in claim 14, wherein said first supporting panel is positioned above said second supporting panel in said outer case, wherein said driving mechanism is configured to drive said first supporting panel to move toward or away from said second supporting panel so as to adjust a size and a volume of said driving cavity. 17. The hand drying apparatus, as recited in claim 6, wherein said storage compartment, said collecting compartment and said squeezing and dispensing arrangement being arranged and configured in a side-by-side manner so that said fabric sheet is arranged to travel from said storage compartment sidewardly to said squeezing and dispensing arrangement and sidewardly to said collecting compartment. 18. The hand drying apparatus, as recited in claim 13, wherein said outer case has two drying cavities for accommodating two hands of a user respectively, said squeezing and dispensing arrangement further comprising a third supporting panel provided in said outer case to form a first drying cavity and a second drying cavity, said second supporting panel being arranged to be stationary while said first supporting panel and said third supporting panel being spacedly positioned at two opposed sides from said second supporting panel, said first drying cavity being provided between said first supporting panel and said third supporting panel, while said second drying cavity being provided between said second supporting panel and said third supporting panel. 19. The hand drying apparatus, as recited in claim 14, wherein said outer case has two drying cavities for accommodating two hands of a user respectively, said squeezing and dispensing arrangement further comprising a third supporting panel provided in said outer case to form a first drying cavity and a second drying cavity, said second supporting panel being arranged to be stationary while said first supporting panel and said third supporting panel being spacedly positioned at two opposed sides from said second supporting panel, said first drying cavity being provided between said first supporting panel and said third supporting panel, while said second drying cavity being provided between said second supporting panel and said third supporting panel. 20. The hand drying apparatus, as recited in claim 17, wherein said outer case has two drying cavities for accommodating two hands of a user respectively, said squeezing and dispensing arrangement further comprising a third supporting panel provided in said outer case to form a first drying cavity and a second drying cavity, said second supporting panel being arranged to be stationary while said first supporting panel and said third supporting panel being spacedly positioned at two opposed sides from said second supporting panel, said first drying cavity being provided between said first supporting panel and said third supporting panel, while said second drying cavity being provided between said second supporting panel and said third supporting panel. 21. The hand drying apparatus, as recited in claim 13, wherein said drying cavity and said access opening are shaped and extend substantially along at least one of horizontal axis and vertical orientation of said outer case. 22. The hand drying apparatus, as recited in claim 14, wherein said drying cavity and said access opening are shaped and extend substantially along at least one of horizontal axis and vertical orientation of said outer case. 23. The hand drying apparatus, as recited in claim 17, wherein said drying cavity and said access opening are shaped and extend substantially along at least one of horizontal axis and vertical orientation of said outer case. 24. The hand drying apparatus, as recited in claim 20, wherein said drying cavity and said access opening are shaped and extend substantially along at least one of horizontal axis and vertical orientation of said outer case. | A hand drying apparatus includes an outer case and a squeezing and dispensing arrangement. The squeezing and dispensing arrangement includes a first supporting panel, a second supporting panel which is spacedly apart from the first supporting panel, and a plurality of driving rotors rotatably supported in the outer case for driving the fabric towel to move in a predetermined direction. The hand drying apparatus is operated between an idle mode and a drying mode, wherein in the idle mode, the first supporting panel and the second supporting panel are positioned and retained to space apart from each other, wherein in the drying mode, at least one of the first supporting panel and the second supporting panel is driven to move toward the other supporting panel for allowing the fabric sheet to contact with the user's hand.1. A hand drying apparatus for a fabric sheet used for absorbing moisture from a user's hand, said hand drying apparatus comprising:
an outer case; and a squeezing and dispensing arrangement, which comprises: at least a first supporting panel and a second supporting panel provided in said outer case, said second supporting panel being provided in said outer case at a position spaced apart from said first supporting panel to form at least one drying cavity as a space formed between said first supporting panel and said second supporting panel for accommodating said user's hand; and at least one driving rotor rotatably supported in said outer case for driving said fabric sheet to move in a predetermined direction; and a plurality of supporting members provided in said outer casing and positioned to support said fabric sheet between said first supporting panel and said second supporting panel in a slidably movable manner; said hand drying apparatus being operated between an idle mode and a drying mode, wherein in said idle mode, said first supporting panel and said second supporting panel are positioned and retained to space apart from each other, wherein in said drying mode, at least one of said first supporting panel and said second supporting panel is driven to move toward said other supporting panel for allowing said fabric sheet supported on said first supporting panel and said second supporting panel to contact with said user's hand in said drying cavity so as to absorb moisture from said user's hand. 2. The hand drying apparatus, as recited in claim 1, wherein said squeezing and dispensing arrangement further comprise a driving mechanism provided in said outer case for driving at least one of said first supporting panel and said second supporting panel to move toward other of said first supporting panel and said second supporting panel. 3. The hand drying apparatus, as recited in claim 2, wherein at least two supporting members are mounted near two ends of each of said first supporting panel and said second supporting panel wherein said fabric sheet is guided to extend on said first supporting panel and said second supporting panel so as to form a U-shaped configuration of said fabric sheet in said drying cavity. 4. The hand drying apparatus, as recited in claim 3, wherein said squeezing and dispensing arrangement further comprise at least one deformable pad supported on one of said first supporting panel and said second supporting panel for supporting said user's hand. 5. The hand drying apparatus, as recited in claim 4, wherein said outer case further has an access opening for allowing a user to access said drying cavity through said access opening, said access opening being formed at a position corresponding to that of said drying cavity. 6. The hand drying apparatus, as recited in claim 3, wherein said driving mechanism comprises a driving assembly attached to said first supporting panel for driving said first supporting panel to move toward said second supporting panel, said driving assembly comprising at least one threaded rod connected to said first supporting panel and said second supporting panel in such a manner that when said threaded rod is driven to rotate, said first supporting panel is arranged to move along a longitudinal direction of said threaded rod. 7. The hand drying apparatus, as recited in claim 6, wherein said squeezing and dispensing arrangement further comprises a folding arrangement comprising a folding rod moveably mounted in said collecting compartment of said outer case for folding used fabric sheet into a folded stack, said folding rod being arranged to move along a corresponding direction of said outer case so that when said used fabric sheet moves from said drying cavity to said collection compartment, said used fabric sheet is guided to fold into a stack by said movement of said folding rod. 8. The hand drying apparatus, as recited in claim 6, wherein said driving assembly of said driving mechanism further comprises a threaded rod so that at least two threaded rods are used to actuate said first supporting panel and said third supporting panel respectively, one of said threaded rods operatively connecting said first supporting panel to said second supporting panel so as to allow said first supporting panel to selectively and controllably move toward and away from said second supporting panel, said other threaded rod operatively connecting said third supporting panel to said second supporting panel so as to allow said third supporting panel to selectively and controllably move toward and away from said second supporting panel. 9. The hand drying apparatus, as recited in claim 4, wherein said driving assembly comprises at least first through second connecting rods moveably mounted on said first supporting panel and said second supporting panel, wherein said first connecting rod and said second connecting rod are connected on said first supporting panel and said second supporting panel, said first connecting rod having one end pivotally connected to said first supporting panel while said second connecting rod having one end pivotally connected to said second supporting panel, said other end of said first connecting rod being pivotally connected to said other end of said second connecting rod. 10. The hand drying apparatus, as recited in claim 4, wherein said driving assembly comprises at least one pusher device coupled between said first supporting panel and said second supporting panel for selectively and controllably driving said first supporting panel toward and away from said second supporting panel, said pusher device comprising a base connected to said second supporting panel, and a pushing member movably extended from said base and connected to said first supporting panel, in such a manner that when said pushing member extends and retracts with respect to said base, said second supporting member is driven to move away and toward said second supporting panel respectively. 11. The hand drying apparatus, as recited in claim 4, wherein said driving assembly comprises at least one rack and pinion gear provided in said outer case at a position at one side of said first supporting panel and said second supporting panel, said rack and pinion gear comprises a rack gear supported in said outer case and a pinion gear operatively engaged with said rack gear in such a manner that when said pinion gear is driven to rotate, said rotational movement of said pinion gear is arranged to transform into a linear movement thereof along said rack gear, said driving assembly further comprising to a driving shaft connected to said pinion gear and said first supporting panel so that a linear movement of said pinion gear along a longitudinal direction of said rack gear is arranged to drive said first supporting panel to move toward or away from said second supporting panel. 12. The hand drying apparatus, as recited in claim 4, wherein said driving assembly comprises at least one driving wheel, at least one connecting rod movably coupled to said first supporting panel, and at least one resilient element connected to said connecting rod for normally exerting a biasing force against said first supporting panel, said driving wheel having a bulging portion so that when said driving wheel is driven to rotate, said connecting rod is also driven to move in a reciprocating manner so as to move said first supporting panel toward and away from said second supporting panel. 13. The hand drying apparatus, as recited in claim 6, wherein said outer case has a storage compartment for storing cleaned, unused fabric sheet, and a collecting compartment for storing used fabric sheet, said storage compartment being provided on an upper portion of said outer case, while said collecting compartment being provided on a lower portion of said outer case, said squeezing and dispensing arrangement being provided between said storage compartment and said collecting compartment at a mid portion of said outer case. 14. The hand drying apparatus, as recited in claim 6, wherein said collecting compartment is formed at an upper portion of said outer case, while said storage compartment is formed at said mid-portion of said outer case, and said squeezing and dispensing arrangement is provided at said lower portion of said outer case. 15. The hand drying apparatus, as recited in claim 13, wherein said first supporting panel is positioned above said second supporting panel in said outer case, wherein said driving mechanism is configured to drive said first supporting panel to move toward or away from said second supporting panel so as to adjust a size and a volume of said driving cavity. 16. The hand drying apparatus, as recited in claim 14, wherein said first supporting panel is positioned above said second supporting panel in said outer case, wherein said driving mechanism is configured to drive said first supporting panel to move toward or away from said second supporting panel so as to adjust a size and a volume of said driving cavity. 17. The hand drying apparatus, as recited in claim 6, wherein said storage compartment, said collecting compartment and said squeezing and dispensing arrangement being arranged and configured in a side-by-side manner so that said fabric sheet is arranged to travel from said storage compartment sidewardly to said squeezing and dispensing arrangement and sidewardly to said collecting compartment. 18. The hand drying apparatus, as recited in claim 13, wherein said outer case has two drying cavities for accommodating two hands of a user respectively, said squeezing and dispensing arrangement further comprising a third supporting panel provided in said outer case to form a first drying cavity and a second drying cavity, said second supporting panel being arranged to be stationary while said first supporting panel and said third supporting panel being spacedly positioned at two opposed sides from said second supporting panel, said first drying cavity being provided between said first supporting panel and said third supporting panel, while said second drying cavity being provided between said second supporting panel and said third supporting panel. 19. The hand drying apparatus, as recited in claim 14, wherein said outer case has two drying cavities for accommodating two hands of a user respectively, said squeezing and dispensing arrangement further comprising a third supporting panel provided in said outer case to form a first drying cavity and a second drying cavity, said second supporting panel being arranged to be stationary while said first supporting panel and said third supporting panel being spacedly positioned at two opposed sides from said second supporting panel, said first drying cavity being provided between said first supporting panel and said third supporting panel, while said second drying cavity being provided between said second supporting panel and said third supporting panel. 20. The hand drying apparatus, as recited in claim 17, wherein said outer case has two drying cavities for accommodating two hands of a user respectively, said squeezing and dispensing arrangement further comprising a third supporting panel provided in said outer case to form a first drying cavity and a second drying cavity, said second supporting panel being arranged to be stationary while said first supporting panel and said third supporting panel being spacedly positioned at two opposed sides from said second supporting panel, said first drying cavity being provided between said first supporting panel and said third supporting panel, while said second drying cavity being provided between said second supporting panel and said third supporting panel. 21. The hand drying apparatus, as recited in claim 13, wherein said drying cavity and said access opening are shaped and extend substantially along at least one of horizontal axis and vertical orientation of said outer case. 22. The hand drying apparatus, as recited in claim 14, wherein said drying cavity and said access opening are shaped and extend substantially along at least one of horizontal axis and vertical orientation of said outer case. 23. The hand drying apparatus, as recited in claim 17, wherein said drying cavity and said access opening are shaped and extend substantially along at least one of horizontal axis and vertical orientation of said outer case. 24. The hand drying apparatus, as recited in claim 20, wherein said drying cavity and said access opening are shaped and extend substantially along at least one of horizontal axis and vertical orientation of said outer case. | 3,700 |
349,357 | 16,806,968 | 2,483 | A hand drying apparatus includes an outer case and a squeezing and dispensing arrangement. The squeezing and dispensing arrangement includes a first supporting panel, a second supporting panel which is spacedly apart from the first supporting panel, and a plurality of driving rotors rotatably supported in the outer case for driving the fabric towel to move in a predetermined direction. The hand drying apparatus is operated between an idle mode and a drying mode, wherein in the idle mode, the first supporting panel and the second supporting panel are positioned and retained to space apart from each other, wherein in the drying mode, at least one of the first supporting panel and the second supporting panel is driven to move toward the other supporting panel for allowing the fabric sheet to contact with the user's hand. | 1. A hand drying apparatus for a fabric sheet used for absorbing moisture from a user's hand, said hand drying apparatus comprising:
an outer case; and a squeezing and dispensing arrangement, which comprises: at least a first supporting panel and a second supporting panel provided in said outer case, said second supporting panel being provided in said outer case at a position spaced apart from said first supporting panel to form at least one drying cavity as a space formed between said first supporting panel and said second supporting panel for accommodating said user's hand; and at least one driving rotor rotatably supported in said outer case for driving said fabric sheet to move in a predetermined direction; and a plurality of supporting members provided in said outer casing and positioned to support said fabric sheet between said first supporting panel and said second supporting panel in a slidably movable manner; said hand drying apparatus being operated between an idle mode and a drying mode, wherein in said idle mode, said first supporting panel and said second supporting panel are positioned and retained to space apart from each other, wherein in said drying mode, at least one of said first supporting panel and said second supporting panel is driven to move toward said other supporting panel for allowing said fabric sheet supported on said first supporting panel and said second supporting panel to contact with said user's hand in said drying cavity so as to absorb moisture from said user's hand. 2. The hand drying apparatus, as recited in claim 1, wherein said squeezing and dispensing arrangement further comprise a driving mechanism provided in said outer case for driving at least one of said first supporting panel and said second supporting panel to move toward other of said first supporting panel and said second supporting panel. 3. The hand drying apparatus, as recited in claim 2, wherein at least two supporting members are mounted near two ends of each of said first supporting panel and said second supporting panel wherein said fabric sheet is guided to extend on said first supporting panel and said second supporting panel so as to form a U-shaped configuration of said fabric sheet in said drying cavity. 4. The hand drying apparatus, as recited in claim 3, wherein said squeezing and dispensing arrangement further comprise at least one deformable pad supported on one of said first supporting panel and said second supporting panel for supporting said user's hand. 5. The hand drying apparatus, as recited in claim 4, wherein said outer case further has an access opening for allowing a user to access said drying cavity through said access opening, said access opening being formed at a position corresponding to that of said drying cavity. 6. The hand drying apparatus, as recited in claim 3, wherein said driving mechanism comprises a driving assembly attached to said first supporting panel for driving said first supporting panel to move toward said second supporting panel, said driving assembly comprising at least one threaded rod connected to said first supporting panel and said second supporting panel in such a manner that when said threaded rod is driven to rotate, said first supporting panel is arranged to move along a longitudinal direction of said threaded rod. 7. The hand drying apparatus, as recited in claim 6, wherein said squeezing and dispensing arrangement further comprises a folding arrangement comprising a folding rod moveably mounted in said collecting compartment of said outer case for folding used fabric sheet into a folded stack, said folding rod being arranged to move along a corresponding direction of said outer case so that when said used fabric sheet moves from said drying cavity to said collection compartment, said used fabric sheet is guided to fold into a stack by said movement of said folding rod. 8. The hand drying apparatus, as recited in claim 6, wherein said driving assembly of said driving mechanism further comprises a threaded rod so that at least two threaded rods are used to actuate said first supporting panel and said third supporting panel respectively, one of said threaded rods operatively connecting said first supporting panel to said second supporting panel so as to allow said first supporting panel to selectively and controllably move toward and away from said second supporting panel, said other threaded rod operatively connecting said third supporting panel to said second supporting panel so as to allow said third supporting panel to selectively and controllably move toward and away from said second supporting panel. 9. The hand drying apparatus, as recited in claim 4, wherein said driving assembly comprises at least first through second connecting rods moveably mounted on said first supporting panel and said second supporting panel, wherein said first connecting rod and said second connecting rod are connected on said first supporting panel and said second supporting panel, said first connecting rod having one end pivotally connected to said first supporting panel while said second connecting rod having one end pivotally connected to said second supporting panel, said other end of said first connecting rod being pivotally connected to said other end of said second connecting rod. 10. The hand drying apparatus, as recited in claim 4, wherein said driving assembly comprises at least one pusher device coupled between said first supporting panel and said second supporting panel for selectively and controllably driving said first supporting panel toward and away from said second supporting panel, said pusher device comprising a base connected to said second supporting panel, and a pushing member movably extended from said base and connected to said first supporting panel, in such a manner that when said pushing member extends and retracts with respect to said base, said second supporting member is driven to move away and toward said second supporting panel respectively. 11. The hand drying apparatus, as recited in claim 4, wherein said driving assembly comprises at least one rack and pinion gear provided in said outer case at a position at one side of said first supporting panel and said second supporting panel, said rack and pinion gear comprises a rack gear supported in said outer case and a pinion gear operatively engaged with said rack gear in such a manner that when said pinion gear is driven to rotate, said rotational movement of said pinion gear is arranged to transform into a linear movement thereof along said rack gear, said driving assembly further comprising to a driving shaft connected to said pinion gear and said first supporting panel so that a linear movement of said pinion gear along a longitudinal direction of said rack gear is arranged to drive said first supporting panel to move toward or away from said second supporting panel. 12. The hand drying apparatus, as recited in claim 4, wherein said driving assembly comprises at least one driving wheel, at least one connecting rod movably coupled to said first supporting panel, and at least one resilient element connected to said connecting rod for normally exerting a biasing force against said first supporting panel, said driving wheel having a bulging portion so that when said driving wheel is driven to rotate, said connecting rod is also driven to move in a reciprocating manner so as to move said first supporting panel toward and away from said second supporting panel. 13. The hand drying apparatus, as recited in claim 6, wherein said outer case has a storage compartment for storing cleaned, unused fabric sheet, and a collecting compartment for storing used fabric sheet, said storage compartment being provided on an upper portion of said outer case, while said collecting compartment being provided on a lower portion of said outer case, said squeezing and dispensing arrangement being provided between said storage compartment and said collecting compartment at a mid portion of said outer case. 14. The hand drying apparatus, as recited in claim 6, wherein said collecting compartment is formed at an upper portion of said outer case, while said storage compartment is formed at said mid-portion of said outer case, and said squeezing and dispensing arrangement is provided at said lower portion of said outer case. 15. The hand drying apparatus, as recited in claim 13, wherein said first supporting panel is positioned above said second supporting panel in said outer case, wherein said driving mechanism is configured to drive said first supporting panel to move toward or away from said second supporting panel so as to adjust a size and a volume of said driving cavity. 16. The hand drying apparatus, as recited in claim 14, wherein said first supporting panel is positioned above said second supporting panel in said outer case, wherein said driving mechanism is configured to drive said first supporting panel to move toward or away from said second supporting panel so as to adjust a size and a volume of said driving cavity. 17. The hand drying apparatus, as recited in claim 6, wherein said storage compartment, said collecting compartment and said squeezing and dispensing arrangement being arranged and configured in a side-by-side manner so that said fabric sheet is arranged to travel from said storage compartment sidewardly to said squeezing and dispensing arrangement and sidewardly to said collecting compartment. 18. The hand drying apparatus, as recited in claim 13, wherein said outer case has two drying cavities for accommodating two hands of a user respectively, said squeezing and dispensing arrangement further comprising a third supporting panel provided in said outer case to form a first drying cavity and a second drying cavity, said second supporting panel being arranged to be stationary while said first supporting panel and said third supporting panel being spacedly positioned at two opposed sides from said second supporting panel, said first drying cavity being provided between said first supporting panel and said third supporting panel, while said second drying cavity being provided between said second supporting panel and said third supporting panel. 19. The hand drying apparatus, as recited in claim 14, wherein said outer case has two drying cavities for accommodating two hands of a user respectively, said squeezing and dispensing arrangement further comprising a third supporting panel provided in said outer case to form a first drying cavity and a second drying cavity, said second supporting panel being arranged to be stationary while said first supporting panel and said third supporting panel being spacedly positioned at two opposed sides from said second supporting panel, said first drying cavity being provided between said first supporting panel and said third supporting panel, while said second drying cavity being provided between said second supporting panel and said third supporting panel. 20. The hand drying apparatus, as recited in claim 17, wherein said outer case has two drying cavities for accommodating two hands of a user respectively, said squeezing and dispensing arrangement further comprising a third supporting panel provided in said outer case to form a first drying cavity and a second drying cavity, said second supporting panel being arranged to be stationary while said first supporting panel and said third supporting panel being spacedly positioned at two opposed sides from said second supporting panel, said first drying cavity being provided between said first supporting panel and said third supporting panel, while said second drying cavity being provided between said second supporting panel and said third supporting panel. 21. The hand drying apparatus, as recited in claim 13, wherein said drying cavity and said access opening are shaped and extend substantially along at least one of horizontal axis and vertical orientation of said outer case. 22. The hand drying apparatus, as recited in claim 14, wherein said drying cavity and said access opening are shaped and extend substantially along at least one of horizontal axis and vertical orientation of said outer case. 23. The hand drying apparatus, as recited in claim 17, wherein said drying cavity and said access opening are shaped and extend substantially along at least one of horizontal axis and vertical orientation of said outer case. 24. The hand drying apparatus, as recited in claim 20, wherein said drying cavity and said access opening are shaped and extend substantially along at least one of horizontal axis and vertical orientation of said outer case. | A hand drying apparatus includes an outer case and a squeezing and dispensing arrangement. The squeezing and dispensing arrangement includes a first supporting panel, a second supporting panel which is spacedly apart from the first supporting panel, and a plurality of driving rotors rotatably supported in the outer case for driving the fabric towel to move in a predetermined direction. The hand drying apparatus is operated between an idle mode and a drying mode, wherein in the idle mode, the first supporting panel and the second supporting panel are positioned and retained to space apart from each other, wherein in the drying mode, at least one of the first supporting panel and the second supporting panel is driven to move toward the other supporting panel for allowing the fabric sheet to contact with the user's hand.1. A hand drying apparatus for a fabric sheet used for absorbing moisture from a user's hand, said hand drying apparatus comprising:
an outer case; and a squeezing and dispensing arrangement, which comprises: at least a first supporting panel and a second supporting panel provided in said outer case, said second supporting panel being provided in said outer case at a position spaced apart from said first supporting panel to form at least one drying cavity as a space formed between said first supporting panel and said second supporting panel for accommodating said user's hand; and at least one driving rotor rotatably supported in said outer case for driving said fabric sheet to move in a predetermined direction; and a plurality of supporting members provided in said outer casing and positioned to support said fabric sheet between said first supporting panel and said second supporting panel in a slidably movable manner; said hand drying apparatus being operated between an idle mode and a drying mode, wherein in said idle mode, said first supporting panel and said second supporting panel are positioned and retained to space apart from each other, wherein in said drying mode, at least one of said first supporting panel and said second supporting panel is driven to move toward said other supporting panel for allowing said fabric sheet supported on said first supporting panel and said second supporting panel to contact with said user's hand in said drying cavity so as to absorb moisture from said user's hand. 2. The hand drying apparatus, as recited in claim 1, wherein said squeezing and dispensing arrangement further comprise a driving mechanism provided in said outer case for driving at least one of said first supporting panel and said second supporting panel to move toward other of said first supporting panel and said second supporting panel. 3. The hand drying apparatus, as recited in claim 2, wherein at least two supporting members are mounted near two ends of each of said first supporting panel and said second supporting panel wherein said fabric sheet is guided to extend on said first supporting panel and said second supporting panel so as to form a U-shaped configuration of said fabric sheet in said drying cavity. 4. The hand drying apparatus, as recited in claim 3, wherein said squeezing and dispensing arrangement further comprise at least one deformable pad supported on one of said first supporting panel and said second supporting panel for supporting said user's hand. 5. The hand drying apparatus, as recited in claim 4, wherein said outer case further has an access opening for allowing a user to access said drying cavity through said access opening, said access opening being formed at a position corresponding to that of said drying cavity. 6. The hand drying apparatus, as recited in claim 3, wherein said driving mechanism comprises a driving assembly attached to said first supporting panel for driving said first supporting panel to move toward said second supporting panel, said driving assembly comprising at least one threaded rod connected to said first supporting panel and said second supporting panel in such a manner that when said threaded rod is driven to rotate, said first supporting panel is arranged to move along a longitudinal direction of said threaded rod. 7. The hand drying apparatus, as recited in claim 6, wherein said squeezing and dispensing arrangement further comprises a folding arrangement comprising a folding rod moveably mounted in said collecting compartment of said outer case for folding used fabric sheet into a folded stack, said folding rod being arranged to move along a corresponding direction of said outer case so that when said used fabric sheet moves from said drying cavity to said collection compartment, said used fabric sheet is guided to fold into a stack by said movement of said folding rod. 8. The hand drying apparatus, as recited in claim 6, wherein said driving assembly of said driving mechanism further comprises a threaded rod so that at least two threaded rods are used to actuate said first supporting panel and said third supporting panel respectively, one of said threaded rods operatively connecting said first supporting panel to said second supporting panel so as to allow said first supporting panel to selectively and controllably move toward and away from said second supporting panel, said other threaded rod operatively connecting said third supporting panel to said second supporting panel so as to allow said third supporting panel to selectively and controllably move toward and away from said second supporting panel. 9. The hand drying apparatus, as recited in claim 4, wherein said driving assembly comprises at least first through second connecting rods moveably mounted on said first supporting panel and said second supporting panel, wherein said first connecting rod and said second connecting rod are connected on said first supporting panel and said second supporting panel, said first connecting rod having one end pivotally connected to said first supporting panel while said second connecting rod having one end pivotally connected to said second supporting panel, said other end of said first connecting rod being pivotally connected to said other end of said second connecting rod. 10. The hand drying apparatus, as recited in claim 4, wherein said driving assembly comprises at least one pusher device coupled between said first supporting panel and said second supporting panel for selectively and controllably driving said first supporting panel toward and away from said second supporting panel, said pusher device comprising a base connected to said second supporting panel, and a pushing member movably extended from said base and connected to said first supporting panel, in such a manner that when said pushing member extends and retracts with respect to said base, said second supporting member is driven to move away and toward said second supporting panel respectively. 11. The hand drying apparatus, as recited in claim 4, wherein said driving assembly comprises at least one rack and pinion gear provided in said outer case at a position at one side of said first supporting panel and said second supporting panel, said rack and pinion gear comprises a rack gear supported in said outer case and a pinion gear operatively engaged with said rack gear in such a manner that when said pinion gear is driven to rotate, said rotational movement of said pinion gear is arranged to transform into a linear movement thereof along said rack gear, said driving assembly further comprising to a driving shaft connected to said pinion gear and said first supporting panel so that a linear movement of said pinion gear along a longitudinal direction of said rack gear is arranged to drive said first supporting panel to move toward or away from said second supporting panel. 12. The hand drying apparatus, as recited in claim 4, wherein said driving assembly comprises at least one driving wheel, at least one connecting rod movably coupled to said first supporting panel, and at least one resilient element connected to said connecting rod for normally exerting a biasing force against said first supporting panel, said driving wheel having a bulging portion so that when said driving wheel is driven to rotate, said connecting rod is also driven to move in a reciprocating manner so as to move said first supporting panel toward and away from said second supporting panel. 13. The hand drying apparatus, as recited in claim 6, wherein said outer case has a storage compartment for storing cleaned, unused fabric sheet, and a collecting compartment for storing used fabric sheet, said storage compartment being provided on an upper portion of said outer case, while said collecting compartment being provided on a lower portion of said outer case, said squeezing and dispensing arrangement being provided between said storage compartment and said collecting compartment at a mid portion of said outer case. 14. The hand drying apparatus, as recited in claim 6, wherein said collecting compartment is formed at an upper portion of said outer case, while said storage compartment is formed at said mid-portion of said outer case, and said squeezing and dispensing arrangement is provided at said lower portion of said outer case. 15. The hand drying apparatus, as recited in claim 13, wherein said first supporting panel is positioned above said second supporting panel in said outer case, wherein said driving mechanism is configured to drive said first supporting panel to move toward or away from said second supporting panel so as to adjust a size and a volume of said driving cavity. 16. The hand drying apparatus, as recited in claim 14, wherein said first supporting panel is positioned above said second supporting panel in said outer case, wherein said driving mechanism is configured to drive said first supporting panel to move toward or away from said second supporting panel so as to adjust a size and a volume of said driving cavity. 17. The hand drying apparatus, as recited in claim 6, wherein said storage compartment, said collecting compartment and said squeezing and dispensing arrangement being arranged and configured in a side-by-side manner so that said fabric sheet is arranged to travel from said storage compartment sidewardly to said squeezing and dispensing arrangement and sidewardly to said collecting compartment. 18. The hand drying apparatus, as recited in claim 13, wherein said outer case has two drying cavities for accommodating two hands of a user respectively, said squeezing and dispensing arrangement further comprising a third supporting panel provided in said outer case to form a first drying cavity and a second drying cavity, said second supporting panel being arranged to be stationary while said first supporting panel and said third supporting panel being spacedly positioned at two opposed sides from said second supporting panel, said first drying cavity being provided between said first supporting panel and said third supporting panel, while said second drying cavity being provided between said second supporting panel and said third supporting panel. 19. The hand drying apparatus, as recited in claim 14, wherein said outer case has two drying cavities for accommodating two hands of a user respectively, said squeezing and dispensing arrangement further comprising a third supporting panel provided in said outer case to form a first drying cavity and a second drying cavity, said second supporting panel being arranged to be stationary while said first supporting panel and said third supporting panel being spacedly positioned at two opposed sides from said second supporting panel, said first drying cavity being provided between said first supporting panel and said third supporting panel, while said second drying cavity being provided between said second supporting panel and said third supporting panel. 20. The hand drying apparatus, as recited in claim 17, wherein said outer case has two drying cavities for accommodating two hands of a user respectively, said squeezing and dispensing arrangement further comprising a third supporting panel provided in said outer case to form a first drying cavity and a second drying cavity, said second supporting panel being arranged to be stationary while said first supporting panel and said third supporting panel being spacedly positioned at two opposed sides from said second supporting panel, said first drying cavity being provided between said first supporting panel and said third supporting panel, while said second drying cavity being provided between said second supporting panel and said third supporting panel. 21. The hand drying apparatus, as recited in claim 13, wherein said drying cavity and said access opening are shaped and extend substantially along at least one of horizontal axis and vertical orientation of said outer case. 22. The hand drying apparatus, as recited in claim 14, wherein said drying cavity and said access opening are shaped and extend substantially along at least one of horizontal axis and vertical orientation of said outer case. 23. The hand drying apparatus, as recited in claim 17, wherein said drying cavity and said access opening are shaped and extend substantially along at least one of horizontal axis and vertical orientation of said outer case. 24. The hand drying apparatus, as recited in claim 20, wherein said drying cavity and said access opening are shaped and extend substantially along at least one of horizontal axis and vertical orientation of said outer case. | 2,400 |
349,358 | 16,806,955 | 2,483 | A method of producing cannabinoids for use in medical treatments by growing cultured Cannabis sativa plant cells through tissue culture, the method comprising the steps of: selecting Cannabis sativa leaf tissue for culture; and growing a tissue culture from the selected leaf tissue in a liquid based medium whilst controlling the light exposure of the tissue culture to control the cannabinoid content of the tissue culture. Control of the light exposure can enable the phytocannabinoid content of the grown tissue culture to be tailored to the use intended for the tissue culture. For example, the THC content of the tissue culture can be controlled to be maximised or minimised depending on the intended use. Use of tissue culture is beneficial as compared to prior art methods as it allows for genetic consistency and reduces the resources necessary to produce plant cells containing phytocannabinoids. | 1-20. (canceled) 21. A phytocannabinoid containing dried cell composition obtained by a process comprising:
selecting a Cannabis tissue for culture; growing a cell suspension culture from the selected Cannabis tissue in a liquid based medium whilst controlling the light exposure of the cell suspension culture to control the content of the cannabinoid produced by the cell suspension culture, the light exposure comprising UV light; and collecting and drying cells from the cell suspension culture after growing the cell suspension culture to form the phytocannabinoid containing dried cell composition. 22. The composition according to claim 21, wherein the drying is freeze-drying. 23. The composition of claim 21, wherein the process further comprises dissolving the dried cells in water. 24. The composition of claim 21, wherein the process further comprises using the dried cells as a medicament or as part of a medicament. 25. The composition according to claim 21, wherein the light exposure is controlled such that tissue culture is constantly exposed to PAR during growth of the tissue culture. 26. The composition according to claim 25, wherein the PAR is controlled to provide at least 0.2 moles of photons per day. 27. The composition according to claim 25, wherein the PAR is controlled to provide 0.5 moles of photons per day. 28. The composition according to claim 21, wherein the light exposure is controlled such that the tissue culture is exposed to UV light during growth of the tissue culture. 29. The composition according to claim 28, wherein the light exposure is controlled such that the tissue culture is exposed to UVA light during growth of the tissue culture. 30. The composition according to claim 28, wherein the light exposure is controlled such that tissue culture is exposed to UVB light during growth of the tissue culture. 31. The composition according to claim 28, wherein the UV light is controlled during growth of the tissue culture such that the tissue culture is exposed to UV light of an intensity greater or equal to 1200 lumens but equal to or less than 2000 lumens and the UV light exposure is cycled through alternating periods of exposure and darkness; wherein each period of exposure is at least 30 minutes and each period of darkness is at least 30 minutes. 32. The composition according to claim 31, wherein each period of exposure is equal to or less than one hour and each period of darkness is equal to or less than one hour. 33. The composition according to claim 28, wherein the intensity of the UV light is less than or equal to 2000 lumens. 34. The composition according to claim 28, wherein the UV light has an intensity equal to or less than 600 lumens. 35. The composition according to claim 28, wherein the UV light is controlled during growth of the tissue culture such that the tissue culture is constantly exposed to UV light of an intensity equal to or less than 1200 lumens. 36. The composition according to claim 21, wherein during growing, the tissue culture is maintained at a temperature between 25° C. and 30° C. 37. The composition according to claim 36, wherein during growing, the tissue culture is maintained at a temperature of 27° C. 38. The composition according to claim 21, wherein the tissue culture is grown for between 10 and 28 days. 39. The composition according to claim 38, wherein the tissue culture is grown for 14 days. 40. The composition according to claim 21, wherein the tissue culture is agitated during growth of the tissue culture. 41. The composition according to claim 21, wherein the CO2 content of the environment in which the a cell suspension culture is grown is controlled to increase tissue growth. 42. The composition of claim 21 wherein the selected the Cannabis leaf tissue was previously grown in a liquid based medium whilst controlling the light exposure of the tissue culture to control the cannabinoid content of the tissue culture. 43. The composition of claim 21, wherein the cannabinoid is THC. 44. The composition of claim 21, wherein the Cannabis plant cells are Cannabis sativa plant cells and the Cannabis tissue is Cannabis sativa tissue. | A method of producing cannabinoids for use in medical treatments by growing cultured Cannabis sativa plant cells through tissue culture, the method comprising the steps of: selecting Cannabis sativa leaf tissue for culture; and growing a tissue culture from the selected leaf tissue in a liquid based medium whilst controlling the light exposure of the tissue culture to control the cannabinoid content of the tissue culture. Control of the light exposure can enable the phytocannabinoid content of the grown tissue culture to be tailored to the use intended for the tissue culture. For example, the THC content of the tissue culture can be controlled to be maximised or minimised depending on the intended use. Use of tissue culture is beneficial as compared to prior art methods as it allows for genetic consistency and reduces the resources necessary to produce plant cells containing phytocannabinoids.1-20. (canceled) 21. A phytocannabinoid containing dried cell composition obtained by a process comprising:
selecting a Cannabis tissue for culture; growing a cell suspension culture from the selected Cannabis tissue in a liquid based medium whilst controlling the light exposure of the cell suspension culture to control the content of the cannabinoid produced by the cell suspension culture, the light exposure comprising UV light; and collecting and drying cells from the cell suspension culture after growing the cell suspension culture to form the phytocannabinoid containing dried cell composition. 22. The composition according to claim 21, wherein the drying is freeze-drying. 23. The composition of claim 21, wherein the process further comprises dissolving the dried cells in water. 24. The composition of claim 21, wherein the process further comprises using the dried cells as a medicament or as part of a medicament. 25. The composition according to claim 21, wherein the light exposure is controlled such that tissue culture is constantly exposed to PAR during growth of the tissue culture. 26. The composition according to claim 25, wherein the PAR is controlled to provide at least 0.2 moles of photons per day. 27. The composition according to claim 25, wherein the PAR is controlled to provide 0.5 moles of photons per day. 28. The composition according to claim 21, wherein the light exposure is controlled such that the tissue culture is exposed to UV light during growth of the tissue culture. 29. The composition according to claim 28, wherein the light exposure is controlled such that the tissue culture is exposed to UVA light during growth of the tissue culture. 30. The composition according to claim 28, wherein the light exposure is controlled such that tissue culture is exposed to UVB light during growth of the tissue culture. 31. The composition according to claim 28, wherein the UV light is controlled during growth of the tissue culture such that the tissue culture is exposed to UV light of an intensity greater or equal to 1200 lumens but equal to or less than 2000 lumens and the UV light exposure is cycled through alternating periods of exposure and darkness; wherein each period of exposure is at least 30 minutes and each period of darkness is at least 30 minutes. 32. The composition according to claim 31, wherein each period of exposure is equal to or less than one hour and each period of darkness is equal to or less than one hour. 33. The composition according to claim 28, wherein the intensity of the UV light is less than or equal to 2000 lumens. 34. The composition according to claim 28, wherein the UV light has an intensity equal to or less than 600 lumens. 35. The composition according to claim 28, wherein the UV light is controlled during growth of the tissue culture such that the tissue culture is constantly exposed to UV light of an intensity equal to or less than 1200 lumens. 36. The composition according to claim 21, wherein during growing, the tissue culture is maintained at a temperature between 25° C. and 30° C. 37. The composition according to claim 36, wherein during growing, the tissue culture is maintained at a temperature of 27° C. 38. The composition according to claim 21, wherein the tissue culture is grown for between 10 and 28 days. 39. The composition according to claim 38, wherein the tissue culture is grown for 14 days. 40. The composition according to claim 21, wherein the tissue culture is agitated during growth of the tissue culture. 41. The composition according to claim 21, wherein the CO2 content of the environment in which the a cell suspension culture is grown is controlled to increase tissue growth. 42. The composition of claim 21 wherein the selected the Cannabis leaf tissue was previously grown in a liquid based medium whilst controlling the light exposure of the tissue culture to control the cannabinoid content of the tissue culture. 43. The composition of claim 21, wherein the cannabinoid is THC. 44. The composition of claim 21, wherein the Cannabis plant cells are Cannabis sativa plant cells and the Cannabis tissue is Cannabis sativa tissue. | 2,400 |
349,359 | 16,806,948 | 2,483 | Systems and methods including one or more processors and one or more non-transitory storage devices storing computing instructions configured to run on the one or more processors and perform: receiving a plurality of snippets of a plurality of user reviews for a product, each respective snippet of the plurality of snippets relating to at least one respective user attribute category of a plurality of user attribute categories; creating a score for each respective snippet of the plurality of snippets based on: a probability of association between at least one user attribute category and one or more seed words, the one or more seed words describing one or more qualities of the product; and facilitating displaying, on a user device of a user, a first snippet of the plurality of snippets, the first snippet of the first plurality of snippets having a higher score of the scores for the plurality of snippets than another score of the scores for the plurality of snippets. Other embodiments are disclosed herein. | 1. A system comprising:
one or more processors; and one or more non-transitory storage devices storing computing instructions configured to run on the one or more processors and perform:
receiving a plurality of snippets of a plurality of user reviews for a product, each respective snippet of the plurality of snippets relating to at least one respective user attribute category of a plurality of user attribute categories;
creating a score for each respective snippet of the plurality of snippets based on:
a probability of association between at least one user attribute category and one or more seed words, the one or more seed words describing one or more qualities of the product; and
facilitating displaying, on a user device of a user, a first snippet of the plurality of snippets, the first snippet of the first plurality of snippets having a higher score of the scores for the plurality of snippets than another score of the scores for the plurality of snippets. 2. The system of claim 1, wherein the one or more non-transitory storage devices storing computing instructions are further configured to run on the one or more processors and perform:
determining a first user attribute category of the plurality of user attribute categories for the user of the user device; and selecting the first snippet of the plurality of snippets, wherein:
the first snippet of the first plurality of snippets relates to at least one user attribute category of the plurality of user attribute categories;
the at least one user attribute category of the plurality of user attribute categories corresponds to the first user attribute category determined for the user; and
the first snippet of the first plurality of snippets is personalized to the user. 3. The system of claim 2, wherein determining the first user attribute category comprises determining the first user attribute category based upon a browsing history of the user. 4. The system of claim 2, wherein determining the first user attribute category comprises determining the first user attribute category based upon profile information of the user 5. The system of claim 2, wherein:
receiving the plurality of snippets of the plurality of user reviews for the product comprises receiving a first plurality of snippets of a first plurality of user reviews of a first product and a second plurality of snippets of a second plurality of user reviews of a second product; selecting the first snippet of the plurality of snippets comprises selecting a first snippet of the first plurality of snippets relating to the first user attribute category, as determined for the user; facilitating displaying, on the user device of the user, the first snippet of the plurality of snippets comprises facilitating displaying, on the user device of the user, the first snippet of the first plurality of snippets proximate the first product on the user device; and the one or more non-transitory storage devices storing computing instructions are further configured to run on the one or more processors and perform:
performing topic modeling of the first plurality of user reviews of the first product to find the first snippet of the first plurality of snippets within the first plurality of user reviews relating to the first user attribute category of the plurality of user attribute categories;
performing topic modeling of the second plurality of user reviews of the second product to find a second snippet of the first plurality of snippets within the second plurality of user reviews relating to a second user attribute category of the plurality of user attribute categories, wherein the second user attribute category is different from the first user attribute category;
determining the second user attribute category of the plurality of user attribute categories for the user is different from the first user attribute category for the user;
selecting the second snippet of the second plurality of snippets relating to the second user attribute category that corresponds to the second user attribute category determined for the user; and
facilitating displaying, on the user device of the user, the second snippet of the second plurality of snippets proximate the second product on the user device. 6. The system of claim 2, wherein:
receiving the plurality of snippets of the plurality of user reviews for the product comprises receiving a first plurality of snippets of a first plurality of user reviews of a first product and a second plurality of snippets of a second plurality of user reviews of a second product; facilitating displaying, on the user device of the user, the first snippet of the plurality of snippets comprises facilitating displaying, on the user device of the user, the first snippet of the first plurality of snippets proximate the first product; and the one or more non-transitory storage devices storing computing instructions are further configured to run on the one or more processors and perform:
performing topic modeling of the first plurality of user reviews of the first product to find the first snippet of the first plurality of snippets within the first plurality of user reviews relating to the first user attribute category of the plurality of user attribute categories; and
performing topic modeling of the second plurality of user reviews of the second product to find a second snippet of the second plurality of snippets within the second plurality of user reviews relating to the first user attribute category of the plurality of user attribute categories, wherein a second user attribute category is different from the first user attribute category;
selecting the second snippet of the second plurality of snippets relating to the first user attribute category that corresponds to the first user attribute category determined for the user; and
facilitating displaying, on the user device of the user, the second snippet of the second plurality of snippets proximate the second product. 7. The system of claim 2, wherein a probability of the first snippet of the first plurality of snippets relating to the at least one user attribute category corresponding to the first user attribute category determined for the user is determined by an equation operating as a function of:
the probability of the first snippet of the first plurality of snippets relating to the at least one user attribute category; the first user attribute category, as determined; and the plurality of user attribute categories. 8. The system of claim 1, wherein the plurality of user attribute categories comprises value-conscious, quality-conscious, brand-conscious, product popularity, gender, age, and location. 9. The system of claim 1, wherein facilitating displaying, on the user device of the user, the first snippet of the plurality of snippets comprises:
facilitating displaying, on the user device of the user, the first snippet of the plurality of snippets proximate the product on a website. 10. The system of claim 9, wherein the product is displayed in a product carousel on the website. 11. A method implemented via execution of computing instructions configured to run at one or more processors and configured to be stored at non-transitory computer-readable media, the method comprising:
receiving a plurality of snippets of a plurality of user reviews for a product, each respective snippet of the plurality of snippets relating to at least one respective user attribute category of a plurality of user attribute categories; creating a score for each respective snippet of the plurality of snippets based on:
a probability of association between at least one user attribute category and one or more seed words, the one or more seed words describing one or more qualities of the product; and
facilitating displaying, on a user device of a user, a first snippet of the plurality of snippets, the first snippet of the first plurality of snippets having a higher score of the scores for the plurality of snippets than another score of the scores for the plurality of snippets. 12. The method of claim 11, wherein the one or more non-transitory storage devices storing computing instructions are further configured to run on the one or more processors and perform:
determining a first user attribute category of the plurality of user attribute categories for the user of the user device; and selecting the first snippet of the plurality of snippets, wherein:
the first snippet of the first plurality of snippets relates to at least one user attribute category of the plurality of user attribute categories;
the at least one user attribute category of the plurality of user attribute categories corresponds to the first user attribute category determined for the user; and
the first snippet of the first plurality of snippets is personalized to the user. 13. The method of claim 12, wherein determining the first user attribute category comprises determining the first user attribute category based upon a browsing history of the user. 14. The method of claim 12, wherein determining the first user attribute category comprises determining the first user attribute category based upon profile information of the user 15. The method of claim 12, wherein:
receiving the plurality of snippets of the plurality of user reviews for the product comprises receiving a first plurality of snippets of a first plurality of user reviews of a first product and a second plurality of snippets of a second plurality of user reviews of a second product; selecting the first snippet of the plurality of snippets comprises selecting a first snippet of the first plurality of snippets relating to the first user attribute category, as determined for the user; facilitating displaying, on the user device of the user, the first snippet of the plurality of snippets comprises facilitating displaying, on the user device of the user, the first snippet of the first plurality of snippets proximate the first product on the user device; and the method further comprises:
performing topic modeling of the first plurality of user reviews of the first product to find the first snippet of the first plurality of snippets within the first plurality of user reviews relating to the first user attribute category of the plurality of user attribute categories;
performing topic modeling of the second plurality of user reviews of the second product to find a second snippet of the first plurality of snippets within the second plurality of user reviews relating to a second user attribute category of the plurality of user attribute categories, wherein the second user attribute category is different from the first user attribute category;
determining the second user attribute category of the plurality of user attribute categories for the user is different from the first user attribute category for the user;
selecting the second snippet of the second plurality of snippets relating to the second user attribute category that corresponds to the second user attribute category determined for the user; and
facilitating displaying, on the user device of the user, the second snippet of the second plurality of snippets proximate the second product on the user device. 16. The method of claim 12, wherein:
receiving the plurality of snippets of the plurality of user reviews for the product comprises receiving a first plurality of snippets of a first plurality of user reviews of a first product and a second plurality of snippets of a second plurality of user reviews of a second product; facilitating displaying, on the user device of the user, the first snippet of the plurality of snippets comprises facilitating displaying, on the user device of the user, the first snippet of the first plurality of snippets proximate the first product; and the method further comprises:
performing topic modeling of the first plurality of user reviews of the first product to find the first snippet of the first plurality of snippets within the first plurality of user reviews relating to the first user attribute category of the plurality of user attribute categories; and
performing topic modeling of the second plurality of user reviews of the second product to find a second snippet of the second plurality of snippets within the second plurality of user reviews relating to the first user attribute category of the plurality of user attribute categories, wherein a second user attribute category is different from the first user attribute category;
selecting the second snippet of the second plurality of snippets relating to the first user attribute category that corresponds to the first user attribute category determined for the user; and
facilitating displaying, on the user device of the user, the second snippet of the second plurality of snippets proximate the second product. 17. The method of claim 12, wherein a probability of the first snippet of the first plurality of snippets relating to the at least one user attribute category corresponding to the first user attribute category determined for the user is determined by an equation operating as a function of:
the probability of the first snippet of the first plurality of snippets relating to the at least one user attribute category; the first user attribute category, as determined; and the plurality of user attribute categories. 18. The method of claim 11, wherein the plurality of user attribute categories comprises value-conscious, quality-conscious, brand-conscious, product popularity, gender, age, and location. 19. The system of claim 1, wherein facilitating displaying, on the user device of the user, the first snippet of the plurality of snippets comprises:
facilitating displaying, on the user device of the user, the first snippet of the plurality of snippets proximate the product on a website. 20. The method of claim 19, wherein the product is displayed in a product carousel on the website. | Systems and methods including one or more processors and one or more non-transitory storage devices storing computing instructions configured to run on the one or more processors and perform: receiving a plurality of snippets of a plurality of user reviews for a product, each respective snippet of the plurality of snippets relating to at least one respective user attribute category of a plurality of user attribute categories; creating a score for each respective snippet of the plurality of snippets based on: a probability of association between at least one user attribute category and one or more seed words, the one or more seed words describing one or more qualities of the product; and facilitating displaying, on a user device of a user, a first snippet of the plurality of snippets, the first snippet of the first plurality of snippets having a higher score of the scores for the plurality of snippets than another score of the scores for the plurality of snippets. Other embodiments are disclosed herein.1. A system comprising:
one or more processors; and one or more non-transitory storage devices storing computing instructions configured to run on the one or more processors and perform:
receiving a plurality of snippets of a plurality of user reviews for a product, each respective snippet of the plurality of snippets relating to at least one respective user attribute category of a plurality of user attribute categories;
creating a score for each respective snippet of the plurality of snippets based on:
a probability of association between at least one user attribute category and one or more seed words, the one or more seed words describing one or more qualities of the product; and
facilitating displaying, on a user device of a user, a first snippet of the plurality of snippets, the first snippet of the first plurality of snippets having a higher score of the scores for the plurality of snippets than another score of the scores for the plurality of snippets. 2. The system of claim 1, wherein the one or more non-transitory storage devices storing computing instructions are further configured to run on the one or more processors and perform:
determining a first user attribute category of the plurality of user attribute categories for the user of the user device; and selecting the first snippet of the plurality of snippets, wherein:
the first snippet of the first plurality of snippets relates to at least one user attribute category of the plurality of user attribute categories;
the at least one user attribute category of the plurality of user attribute categories corresponds to the first user attribute category determined for the user; and
the first snippet of the first plurality of snippets is personalized to the user. 3. The system of claim 2, wherein determining the first user attribute category comprises determining the first user attribute category based upon a browsing history of the user. 4. The system of claim 2, wherein determining the first user attribute category comprises determining the first user attribute category based upon profile information of the user 5. The system of claim 2, wherein:
receiving the plurality of snippets of the plurality of user reviews for the product comprises receiving a first plurality of snippets of a first plurality of user reviews of a first product and a second plurality of snippets of a second plurality of user reviews of a second product; selecting the first snippet of the plurality of snippets comprises selecting a first snippet of the first plurality of snippets relating to the first user attribute category, as determined for the user; facilitating displaying, on the user device of the user, the first snippet of the plurality of snippets comprises facilitating displaying, on the user device of the user, the first snippet of the first plurality of snippets proximate the first product on the user device; and the one or more non-transitory storage devices storing computing instructions are further configured to run on the one or more processors and perform:
performing topic modeling of the first plurality of user reviews of the first product to find the first snippet of the first plurality of snippets within the first plurality of user reviews relating to the first user attribute category of the plurality of user attribute categories;
performing topic modeling of the second plurality of user reviews of the second product to find a second snippet of the first plurality of snippets within the second plurality of user reviews relating to a second user attribute category of the plurality of user attribute categories, wherein the second user attribute category is different from the first user attribute category;
determining the second user attribute category of the plurality of user attribute categories for the user is different from the first user attribute category for the user;
selecting the second snippet of the second plurality of snippets relating to the second user attribute category that corresponds to the second user attribute category determined for the user; and
facilitating displaying, on the user device of the user, the second snippet of the second plurality of snippets proximate the second product on the user device. 6. The system of claim 2, wherein:
receiving the plurality of snippets of the plurality of user reviews for the product comprises receiving a first plurality of snippets of a first plurality of user reviews of a first product and a second plurality of snippets of a second plurality of user reviews of a second product; facilitating displaying, on the user device of the user, the first snippet of the plurality of snippets comprises facilitating displaying, on the user device of the user, the first snippet of the first plurality of snippets proximate the first product; and the one or more non-transitory storage devices storing computing instructions are further configured to run on the one or more processors and perform:
performing topic modeling of the first plurality of user reviews of the first product to find the first snippet of the first plurality of snippets within the first plurality of user reviews relating to the first user attribute category of the plurality of user attribute categories; and
performing topic modeling of the second plurality of user reviews of the second product to find a second snippet of the second plurality of snippets within the second plurality of user reviews relating to the first user attribute category of the plurality of user attribute categories, wherein a second user attribute category is different from the first user attribute category;
selecting the second snippet of the second plurality of snippets relating to the first user attribute category that corresponds to the first user attribute category determined for the user; and
facilitating displaying, on the user device of the user, the second snippet of the second plurality of snippets proximate the second product. 7. The system of claim 2, wherein a probability of the first snippet of the first plurality of snippets relating to the at least one user attribute category corresponding to the first user attribute category determined for the user is determined by an equation operating as a function of:
the probability of the first snippet of the first plurality of snippets relating to the at least one user attribute category; the first user attribute category, as determined; and the plurality of user attribute categories. 8. The system of claim 1, wherein the plurality of user attribute categories comprises value-conscious, quality-conscious, brand-conscious, product popularity, gender, age, and location. 9. The system of claim 1, wherein facilitating displaying, on the user device of the user, the first snippet of the plurality of snippets comprises:
facilitating displaying, on the user device of the user, the first snippet of the plurality of snippets proximate the product on a website. 10. The system of claim 9, wherein the product is displayed in a product carousel on the website. 11. A method implemented via execution of computing instructions configured to run at one or more processors and configured to be stored at non-transitory computer-readable media, the method comprising:
receiving a plurality of snippets of a plurality of user reviews for a product, each respective snippet of the plurality of snippets relating to at least one respective user attribute category of a plurality of user attribute categories; creating a score for each respective snippet of the plurality of snippets based on:
a probability of association between at least one user attribute category and one or more seed words, the one or more seed words describing one or more qualities of the product; and
facilitating displaying, on a user device of a user, a first snippet of the plurality of snippets, the first snippet of the first plurality of snippets having a higher score of the scores for the plurality of snippets than another score of the scores for the plurality of snippets. 12. The method of claim 11, wherein the one or more non-transitory storage devices storing computing instructions are further configured to run on the one or more processors and perform:
determining a first user attribute category of the plurality of user attribute categories for the user of the user device; and selecting the first snippet of the plurality of snippets, wherein:
the first snippet of the first plurality of snippets relates to at least one user attribute category of the plurality of user attribute categories;
the at least one user attribute category of the plurality of user attribute categories corresponds to the first user attribute category determined for the user; and
the first snippet of the first plurality of snippets is personalized to the user. 13. The method of claim 12, wherein determining the first user attribute category comprises determining the first user attribute category based upon a browsing history of the user. 14. The method of claim 12, wherein determining the first user attribute category comprises determining the first user attribute category based upon profile information of the user 15. The method of claim 12, wherein:
receiving the plurality of snippets of the plurality of user reviews for the product comprises receiving a first plurality of snippets of a first plurality of user reviews of a first product and a second plurality of snippets of a second plurality of user reviews of a second product; selecting the first snippet of the plurality of snippets comprises selecting a first snippet of the first plurality of snippets relating to the first user attribute category, as determined for the user; facilitating displaying, on the user device of the user, the first snippet of the plurality of snippets comprises facilitating displaying, on the user device of the user, the first snippet of the first plurality of snippets proximate the first product on the user device; and the method further comprises:
performing topic modeling of the first plurality of user reviews of the first product to find the first snippet of the first plurality of snippets within the first plurality of user reviews relating to the first user attribute category of the plurality of user attribute categories;
performing topic modeling of the second plurality of user reviews of the second product to find a second snippet of the first plurality of snippets within the second plurality of user reviews relating to a second user attribute category of the plurality of user attribute categories, wherein the second user attribute category is different from the first user attribute category;
determining the second user attribute category of the plurality of user attribute categories for the user is different from the first user attribute category for the user;
selecting the second snippet of the second plurality of snippets relating to the second user attribute category that corresponds to the second user attribute category determined for the user; and
facilitating displaying, on the user device of the user, the second snippet of the second plurality of snippets proximate the second product on the user device. 16. The method of claim 12, wherein:
receiving the plurality of snippets of the plurality of user reviews for the product comprises receiving a first plurality of snippets of a first plurality of user reviews of a first product and a second plurality of snippets of a second plurality of user reviews of a second product; facilitating displaying, on the user device of the user, the first snippet of the plurality of snippets comprises facilitating displaying, on the user device of the user, the first snippet of the first plurality of snippets proximate the first product; and the method further comprises:
performing topic modeling of the first plurality of user reviews of the first product to find the first snippet of the first plurality of snippets within the first plurality of user reviews relating to the first user attribute category of the plurality of user attribute categories; and
performing topic modeling of the second plurality of user reviews of the second product to find a second snippet of the second plurality of snippets within the second plurality of user reviews relating to the first user attribute category of the plurality of user attribute categories, wherein a second user attribute category is different from the first user attribute category;
selecting the second snippet of the second plurality of snippets relating to the first user attribute category that corresponds to the first user attribute category determined for the user; and
facilitating displaying, on the user device of the user, the second snippet of the second plurality of snippets proximate the second product. 17. The method of claim 12, wherein a probability of the first snippet of the first plurality of snippets relating to the at least one user attribute category corresponding to the first user attribute category determined for the user is determined by an equation operating as a function of:
the probability of the first snippet of the first plurality of snippets relating to the at least one user attribute category; the first user attribute category, as determined; and the plurality of user attribute categories. 18. The method of claim 11, wherein the plurality of user attribute categories comprises value-conscious, quality-conscious, brand-conscious, product popularity, gender, age, and location. 19. The system of claim 1, wherein facilitating displaying, on the user device of the user, the first snippet of the plurality of snippets comprises:
facilitating displaying, on the user device of the user, the first snippet of the plurality of snippets proximate the product on a website. 20. The method of claim 19, wherein the product is displayed in a product carousel on the website. | 2,400 |
349,360 | 16,806,931 | 2,483 | Generally, the present disclosure provides example embodiments relating to conductive features, such as metal contacts, vias, lines, etc., and methods for forming those conductive features. In an embodiment, a barrier layer is formed along a sidewall. A portion of the barrier layer along the sidewall is etched back by a wet etching process. After etching back the portion of the barrier layer, an underlying dielectric welding layer is exposed. A conductive material is formed along the barrier layer. | 1. A semiconductor device comprising:
a source/drain region; a first gate structure adjacent the source/drain region; a dielectric layer over the first gate structure and the source/drain region; and a contact structure extending through the dielectric layer to the source/drain region, the contact structure comprising:
a first dielectric liner, wherein an upper surface of the first dielectric liner is lower than an upper surface of the dielectric layer, wherein the first dielectric liner and the dielectric layer have a common element;
a second dielectric liner on the first dielectric liner, wherein an upper surface of the second dielectric liner is lower than the upper surface of the first dielectric liner, wherein the first dielectric liner and the second dielectric liner have a common element; and
a conductive material over the second dielectric liner. 2. The semiconductor device of claim 1, wherein the upper surface of the second dielectric liner is recessed a distance in a range from about 15 nm to about 25 nm below the upper surface of the dielectric layer. 3. The semiconductor device of claim 1, wherein the dielectric layer comprises a plurality of dielectric layers. 4. The semiconductor device of claim 1, wherein a first width is from a first sidewall of the dielectric layer to a second sidewall of the dielectric layer, wherein a second width is from a first inner sidewall of the first dielectric liner to a second inner sidewall of the first dielectric liner, wherein second width is in a range from 5% to 15% less than the first width. 5. The semiconductor device of claim 1, wherein a first width is from a first sidewall of the dielectric layer to a second sidewall of the dielectric layer, wherein a second width is from a first inner sidewall of the second dielectric liner to a second inner sidewall of the second dielectric liner, wherein second width is in a range from 8% to 30% less than the first width. 6. The semiconductor device of claim 1, wherein the second dielectric liner directly contacts the source/drain region. 7. The semiconductor device of claim 1, wherein the second dielectric liner comprises nitrogen elements, oxygen elements, or carbon elements. 8. A semiconductor device comprising:
a source/drain region; a first gate structure adjacent the source/drain region; one or more dielectric layers over the first gate structure and the source/drain region; and a contact structure extending through the one or more dielectric layers to the source/drain region, the contact structure comprising:
a first liner, wherein an upper surface of the first liner is lower than an upper surface of the one or more dielectric layers;
a second liner on the first liner, wherein an upper surface of the second liner is lower than the upper surface of the first liner; and
a conductive material over the second liner. 9. The semiconductor device of claim 8, wherein the contact structure extends from the source/drain region to over the first gate structure. 10. The semiconductor device of claim 8, wherein the first liner and a first dielectric layer of the one or more dielectric layers have a common element. 11. The semiconductor device of claim 8, wherein the first liner and the second liner have a common element. 12. The semiconductor device of claim 8, wherein the second liner includes at least one of titanium nitride, titanium oxide, tantalum nitride, and tantalum oxide. 13. The semiconductor device of claim 8, wherein the first liner includes at least one of silicon oxide, silicon nitride, silicon carbide, silicon oxycarbide, and silicon oxynitride. 14. The semiconductor device of claim 8, wherein the conductive material directly contacts the upper surface of the first liner and the upper surface of the second liner. 15. The semiconductor device of claim 8, wherein the source/drain region comprises a silicide region in direct contact with the second liner. 16. A method for a semiconductor process, the method comprising:
forming shared source/drain region, a first gate structure, and a second gate structure, the shared source/drain region being a source/drain region for both the first gate structure and the second gate structure, the first gate structure comprising a first gate spacer and a first gate electrode, the second gate structure comprising a second gate spacer and a second gate electrode; forming one or more dielectric layers over the first gate structure, the second gate structure, and the source/drain region; forming a first opening through the one or more dielectric layers, the first opening exposing the source/drain region, a sidewall of the first gate spacer, and a sidewall of the second gate spacer; forming a first dielectric liner along sidewalls of the one or more dielectric layers, the sidewall of the first gate spacer, and the sidewall of the second gate spacer, an upper surface of the one or more dielectric layers being free of the first dielectric liner, wherein the first dielectric liner and the one or more dielectric layers have a first common element; forming a second dielectric liner on the first dielectric liner, wherein the first dielectric liner and the second dielectric liner have a second common element, wherein the second dielectric liner contacts an upper surface of the one or more dielectric layers; etching back a portion of the first dielectric liner and the second dielectric liner to expose a sidewall of the one or more dielectric layers and a sidewall of the first dielectric liner; and forming a conductive material over the second dielectric liner. 17. The method of claim 16, wherein the first common element is silicon. 18. The method of claim 16, wherein the second common element is nitrogen, silicon, or carbon. 19. The method of claim 16, wherein the first opening exposes an upper surface of the first gate electrode. 20. The method of claim 19 further comprising:
forming a third gate structure, wherein the one or more dielectric layers are formed over the third gate structure; and
forming a second opening through the one or more dielectric layers, the second opening exposing an upper surface of the third gate structure, wherein the first dielectric liner and the second dielectric liner extends along sidewalls of the second opening to the third gate structure. 21. The method of claim 16, wherein an upper surface of the second dielectric liner is recessed from an upper surface of the one or more dielectric layers by an amount in a range from about 15 nm and about 35 nm. | Generally, the present disclosure provides example embodiments relating to conductive features, such as metal contacts, vias, lines, etc., and methods for forming those conductive features. In an embodiment, a barrier layer is formed along a sidewall. A portion of the barrier layer along the sidewall is etched back by a wet etching process. After etching back the portion of the barrier layer, an underlying dielectric welding layer is exposed. A conductive material is formed along the barrier layer.1. A semiconductor device comprising:
a source/drain region; a first gate structure adjacent the source/drain region; a dielectric layer over the first gate structure and the source/drain region; and a contact structure extending through the dielectric layer to the source/drain region, the contact structure comprising:
a first dielectric liner, wherein an upper surface of the first dielectric liner is lower than an upper surface of the dielectric layer, wherein the first dielectric liner and the dielectric layer have a common element;
a second dielectric liner on the first dielectric liner, wherein an upper surface of the second dielectric liner is lower than the upper surface of the first dielectric liner, wherein the first dielectric liner and the second dielectric liner have a common element; and
a conductive material over the second dielectric liner. 2. The semiconductor device of claim 1, wherein the upper surface of the second dielectric liner is recessed a distance in a range from about 15 nm to about 25 nm below the upper surface of the dielectric layer. 3. The semiconductor device of claim 1, wherein the dielectric layer comprises a plurality of dielectric layers. 4. The semiconductor device of claim 1, wherein a first width is from a first sidewall of the dielectric layer to a second sidewall of the dielectric layer, wherein a second width is from a first inner sidewall of the first dielectric liner to a second inner sidewall of the first dielectric liner, wherein second width is in a range from 5% to 15% less than the first width. 5. The semiconductor device of claim 1, wherein a first width is from a first sidewall of the dielectric layer to a second sidewall of the dielectric layer, wherein a second width is from a first inner sidewall of the second dielectric liner to a second inner sidewall of the second dielectric liner, wherein second width is in a range from 8% to 30% less than the first width. 6. The semiconductor device of claim 1, wherein the second dielectric liner directly contacts the source/drain region. 7. The semiconductor device of claim 1, wherein the second dielectric liner comprises nitrogen elements, oxygen elements, or carbon elements. 8. A semiconductor device comprising:
a source/drain region; a first gate structure adjacent the source/drain region; one or more dielectric layers over the first gate structure and the source/drain region; and a contact structure extending through the one or more dielectric layers to the source/drain region, the contact structure comprising:
a first liner, wherein an upper surface of the first liner is lower than an upper surface of the one or more dielectric layers;
a second liner on the first liner, wherein an upper surface of the second liner is lower than the upper surface of the first liner; and
a conductive material over the second liner. 9. The semiconductor device of claim 8, wherein the contact structure extends from the source/drain region to over the first gate structure. 10. The semiconductor device of claim 8, wherein the first liner and a first dielectric layer of the one or more dielectric layers have a common element. 11. The semiconductor device of claim 8, wherein the first liner and the second liner have a common element. 12. The semiconductor device of claim 8, wherein the second liner includes at least one of titanium nitride, titanium oxide, tantalum nitride, and tantalum oxide. 13. The semiconductor device of claim 8, wherein the first liner includes at least one of silicon oxide, silicon nitride, silicon carbide, silicon oxycarbide, and silicon oxynitride. 14. The semiconductor device of claim 8, wherein the conductive material directly contacts the upper surface of the first liner and the upper surface of the second liner. 15. The semiconductor device of claim 8, wherein the source/drain region comprises a silicide region in direct contact with the second liner. 16. A method for a semiconductor process, the method comprising:
forming shared source/drain region, a first gate structure, and a second gate structure, the shared source/drain region being a source/drain region for both the first gate structure and the second gate structure, the first gate structure comprising a first gate spacer and a first gate electrode, the second gate structure comprising a second gate spacer and a second gate electrode; forming one or more dielectric layers over the first gate structure, the second gate structure, and the source/drain region; forming a first opening through the one or more dielectric layers, the first opening exposing the source/drain region, a sidewall of the first gate spacer, and a sidewall of the second gate spacer; forming a first dielectric liner along sidewalls of the one or more dielectric layers, the sidewall of the first gate spacer, and the sidewall of the second gate spacer, an upper surface of the one or more dielectric layers being free of the first dielectric liner, wherein the first dielectric liner and the one or more dielectric layers have a first common element; forming a second dielectric liner on the first dielectric liner, wherein the first dielectric liner and the second dielectric liner have a second common element, wherein the second dielectric liner contacts an upper surface of the one or more dielectric layers; etching back a portion of the first dielectric liner and the second dielectric liner to expose a sidewall of the one or more dielectric layers and a sidewall of the first dielectric liner; and forming a conductive material over the second dielectric liner. 17. The method of claim 16, wherein the first common element is silicon. 18. The method of claim 16, wherein the second common element is nitrogen, silicon, or carbon. 19. The method of claim 16, wherein the first opening exposes an upper surface of the first gate electrode. 20. The method of claim 19 further comprising:
forming a third gate structure, wherein the one or more dielectric layers are formed over the third gate structure; and
forming a second opening through the one or more dielectric layers, the second opening exposing an upper surface of the third gate structure, wherein the first dielectric liner and the second dielectric liner extends along sidewalls of the second opening to the third gate structure. 21. The method of claim 16, wherein an upper surface of the second dielectric liner is recessed from an upper surface of the one or more dielectric layers by an amount in a range from about 15 nm and about 35 nm. | 2,400 |
349,361 | 16,806,936 | 2,483 | Compositions are described comprising a polymer; a non-physiological pH solution; and a visualization agent; wherein the polymer is soluble in the non-physiological pH solution and insoluble at a physiological pH. Methods of forming the solutions and polymers are disclosed as well as methods of therapeutic use. | 1. A method of delivering a composition comprising:
injecting through a delivery device into a location with physiological pH environment a liquid embolic composition comprising a biocompatible polymer including a first monomer selected from a group consisting of aminopropyl methacrylamide, aminoethyl methacrylamide, aminoethyl methacylate, aminopropyl methacylate, N-(3-methylphridine)acrylamide, N-(2-(4-aminophenyl)ethylacrylamide, N-(4-aminobenzyl)acrylamide, N-(2-4-imidazolyl)ethyl)acrylamide, and combinations thereof, a second monomer, a non-physiological pH solution and a visualization agent, and wherein the biocompatible polymer precipitates when it reaches the physiological pH. 2. The method of claim 1, wherein the second monomer comprises an acrylate, acrylamide, a derivative thereof, or a combination thereof. 3. The method of claim 1, wherein the visualization agent is a particulate. 4. The method of claim 1, wherein the visualization agent is an iodinated compound, barium sulfate tantalum, superparamagnetic iron oxide, gadolinium molecules, or a combination thereof. 5. The method of claim 1, wherein the visualization agent has a concentration of about 5% to about 65%. 6. The method of claim 1, wherein the biocompatible polymer includes a third monomer. 7. The method of claim 1, wherein the biocompatible polymer is a reaction product of three different monomers. 8. The method of claim 1, wherein the non-physiological pH solution is aqueous. 9. The method of claim 1, wherein the non-physiological pH solution has a pH of less than about 5. 10. The method of claim 1, wherein the non-physiological pH solution has a pH of greater than about 8. 11. The method of claim 1, wherein the biocompatible polymer has a concentration of about 1% w/w to about 35% w/w. | Compositions are described comprising a polymer; a non-physiological pH solution; and a visualization agent; wherein the polymer is soluble in the non-physiological pH solution and insoluble at a physiological pH. Methods of forming the solutions and polymers are disclosed as well as methods of therapeutic use.1. A method of delivering a composition comprising:
injecting through a delivery device into a location with physiological pH environment a liquid embolic composition comprising a biocompatible polymer including a first monomer selected from a group consisting of aminopropyl methacrylamide, aminoethyl methacrylamide, aminoethyl methacylate, aminopropyl methacylate, N-(3-methylphridine)acrylamide, N-(2-(4-aminophenyl)ethylacrylamide, N-(4-aminobenzyl)acrylamide, N-(2-4-imidazolyl)ethyl)acrylamide, and combinations thereof, a second monomer, a non-physiological pH solution and a visualization agent, and wherein the biocompatible polymer precipitates when it reaches the physiological pH. 2. The method of claim 1, wherein the second monomer comprises an acrylate, acrylamide, a derivative thereof, or a combination thereof. 3. The method of claim 1, wherein the visualization agent is a particulate. 4. The method of claim 1, wherein the visualization agent is an iodinated compound, barium sulfate tantalum, superparamagnetic iron oxide, gadolinium molecules, or a combination thereof. 5. The method of claim 1, wherein the visualization agent has a concentration of about 5% to about 65%. 6. The method of claim 1, wherein the biocompatible polymer includes a third monomer. 7. The method of claim 1, wherein the biocompatible polymer is a reaction product of three different monomers. 8. The method of claim 1, wherein the non-physiological pH solution is aqueous. 9. The method of claim 1, wherein the non-physiological pH solution has a pH of less than about 5. 10. The method of claim 1, wherein the non-physiological pH solution has a pH of greater than about 8. 11. The method of claim 1, wherein the biocompatible polymer has a concentration of about 1% w/w to about 35% w/w. | 2,400 |
349,362 | 16,806,922 | 2,483 | A robot manipulator includes: an arm body; a wrist effector, connected to the arm body; a multi-degree-of-freedom (DOF) connecting device, rotatably connected to the wrist effector; and a grabber, connected to the multi-DOF connecting device, wherein the multi-DOF connecting device is configured to receive a power output by the wrist effector and drive the grabber to rotate. | 1. A robot manipulator, comprising:
an arm body; a wrist effector, connected to the arm body; a multi-degree-of-freedom (DOF) connecting device, rotatably connected to the wrist effector; and a grabber, connected to the multi-DOF connecting device, wherein the multi-DOF connecting device is configured to receive a power output by the wrist effector and drive the grabber to rotate. 2. The robot manipulator according to claim 1, wherein the multi-DOF connecting device comprises a connecting member, a first transmission device, a second transmission device, and a bevel gear driving device, wherein the bevel gear driving device comprises a bracket, a first driving bevel gear, a second driving bevel gear, and a first planetary gear; wherein
one end of the connecting member is connected to the wrist effector and the other end of the connecting member is rotatably connected to the bracket, the first driving bevel gear, the second driving bevel gear, and the first planetary gear are all rotatable connected to the bracket, the first driving bevel gear and the second driving bevel gear are oppositely disposed, the first planetary gear is disposed between the first driving bevel gear and the second driving bevel gear, and the first planetary gear is in mesh with the first driving bevel gear and the second driving bevel gear respectively; and the first transmission device is connected to a first output shaft of the wrist effector and the first driving bevel gear respectively, the first output shaft of the wrist effector is configured to drive the first driving bevel gear to rotate, the second transmission device is connected to a second output shaft of the wrist effector and the second driving bevel gear respectively, the second output shaft of the wrist effector is configured to drive the second driving bevel gear to rotate, and the grabber is connected to the first planetary gear. 3. The robot manipulator according to claim 2, wherein
the first transmission device comprises a first belt, a first pulley, and a second pulley; wherein the first pulley is connected to the first output shaft of the wrist effector, the second pulley is connected to the first driving bevel gear, and the first belt is sleeved onto the first pulley and the second pulley. 4. The robot manipulator according to claim 2, wherein
the second transmission device comprises a second belt, a third pulley, and a fourth pulley; wherein the third pulley is connected to the second output shaft of the wrist effector, the fourth pulley is connected to the second driving bevel gear, and the second belt is sleeved onto the third pulley and the fourth pulley. 5. The robot manipulator according to claim 2, wherein the multi-DOF connecting device comprises a second planetary gear; wherein
the second planetary gear is rotatably connected to the bracket, the second planetary gear is disposed between the first driving bevel gear and the second driving bevel gear, and the second planetary gear is in mesh with the first driving bevel gear and the second driving bevel gear respectively; and the grabber is connected to the second planetary gear. 6. The robot manipulator according to claim 5, wherein the grabber comprises a grabber body and a U-shaped connecting frame; wherein one end of the grabber body is connected to the U-shaped connecting frame, and two stands of the U-shaped connecting frame are respectively connected to the first planetary gear and the second planetary gear. 7. The robot manipulator according to claim 1, wherein the arm body comprises a lift boom effector, an incline boom effector, a first connecting frame, a rotate elbow effector, an elbow effector, a second connecting frame, and a rotate wrist effector; wherein
a case of the incline boom effector is connected to an output end of the lift boom effector, one end of the first connecting frame is connected to an output end of the incline boom effector, a case of the rotate elbow effector is connected to the other end of the first connecting frame, a case of the elbow effector is connected to an output end of the rotate elbow effector, one end of the second connecting frame is connected to an output end of the elbow effector, a case of the rotate wrist effector is connected to the other end of the second connecting frame, and a case of the wrist effector is connected to an output end of the rotate wrist effector. 8. The robot manipulator according to claim 7, wherein the first connecting frame comprises a first connecting stand plate and a second connecting stand plate; wherein one end of the first connecting stand plate is connected to the output end of the incline boom effector, one end of the second connecting stand plate is rotatably connected to the case of the incline boom effector, the other ends of the first connecting stand plate and the second connecting stand plate are both connected to the case of the rotate elbow effector, and the first connecting stand plate and the second connecting stand plate are parallelly disposed. 9. The robot manipulator according to claim 8, wherein the first connecting frame comprises a connecting bearing; wherein one end of the second connecting stand plate is connected to the case of the incline boom effector by the connecting bearing. 10. The robot manipulator according to claim 8, wherein the first connecting frame comprises a fixing plate; wherein the fixing plate is connected to the rotate elbow effector, and the other ends of the first connecting stand plate and the second connecting stand plate are both connected to the fixing plate. 11. The robot manipulator according to claim 7, wherein the second connecting frame comprises a third connecting stand plate and a fourth connecting stand plate; wherein one end of the third connecting stand plate is connected to the output end of the elbow effector, the other end of the third connecting stand plate is connected to the case of the rotate wrist effector, one end of the fourth connecting stand plate is rotatably connected to the case of the elbow effector, and the other end of the fourth connecting stand plate is connected to the case of the rotate wrist effector. 12. A robot, comprising at least one robot manipulator as defined in claim 1. | A robot manipulator includes: an arm body; a wrist effector, connected to the arm body; a multi-degree-of-freedom (DOF) connecting device, rotatably connected to the wrist effector; and a grabber, connected to the multi-DOF connecting device, wherein the multi-DOF connecting device is configured to receive a power output by the wrist effector and drive the grabber to rotate.1. A robot manipulator, comprising:
an arm body; a wrist effector, connected to the arm body; a multi-degree-of-freedom (DOF) connecting device, rotatably connected to the wrist effector; and a grabber, connected to the multi-DOF connecting device, wherein the multi-DOF connecting device is configured to receive a power output by the wrist effector and drive the grabber to rotate. 2. The robot manipulator according to claim 1, wherein the multi-DOF connecting device comprises a connecting member, a first transmission device, a second transmission device, and a bevel gear driving device, wherein the bevel gear driving device comprises a bracket, a first driving bevel gear, a second driving bevel gear, and a first planetary gear; wherein
one end of the connecting member is connected to the wrist effector and the other end of the connecting member is rotatably connected to the bracket, the first driving bevel gear, the second driving bevel gear, and the first planetary gear are all rotatable connected to the bracket, the first driving bevel gear and the second driving bevel gear are oppositely disposed, the first planetary gear is disposed between the first driving bevel gear and the second driving bevel gear, and the first planetary gear is in mesh with the first driving bevel gear and the second driving bevel gear respectively; and the first transmission device is connected to a first output shaft of the wrist effector and the first driving bevel gear respectively, the first output shaft of the wrist effector is configured to drive the first driving bevel gear to rotate, the second transmission device is connected to a second output shaft of the wrist effector and the second driving bevel gear respectively, the second output shaft of the wrist effector is configured to drive the second driving bevel gear to rotate, and the grabber is connected to the first planetary gear. 3. The robot manipulator according to claim 2, wherein
the first transmission device comprises a first belt, a first pulley, and a second pulley; wherein the first pulley is connected to the first output shaft of the wrist effector, the second pulley is connected to the first driving bevel gear, and the first belt is sleeved onto the first pulley and the second pulley. 4. The robot manipulator according to claim 2, wherein
the second transmission device comprises a second belt, a third pulley, and a fourth pulley; wherein the third pulley is connected to the second output shaft of the wrist effector, the fourth pulley is connected to the second driving bevel gear, and the second belt is sleeved onto the third pulley and the fourth pulley. 5. The robot manipulator according to claim 2, wherein the multi-DOF connecting device comprises a second planetary gear; wherein
the second planetary gear is rotatably connected to the bracket, the second planetary gear is disposed between the first driving bevel gear and the second driving bevel gear, and the second planetary gear is in mesh with the first driving bevel gear and the second driving bevel gear respectively; and the grabber is connected to the second planetary gear. 6. The robot manipulator according to claim 5, wherein the grabber comprises a grabber body and a U-shaped connecting frame; wherein one end of the grabber body is connected to the U-shaped connecting frame, and two stands of the U-shaped connecting frame are respectively connected to the first planetary gear and the second planetary gear. 7. The robot manipulator according to claim 1, wherein the arm body comprises a lift boom effector, an incline boom effector, a first connecting frame, a rotate elbow effector, an elbow effector, a second connecting frame, and a rotate wrist effector; wherein
a case of the incline boom effector is connected to an output end of the lift boom effector, one end of the first connecting frame is connected to an output end of the incline boom effector, a case of the rotate elbow effector is connected to the other end of the first connecting frame, a case of the elbow effector is connected to an output end of the rotate elbow effector, one end of the second connecting frame is connected to an output end of the elbow effector, a case of the rotate wrist effector is connected to the other end of the second connecting frame, and a case of the wrist effector is connected to an output end of the rotate wrist effector. 8. The robot manipulator according to claim 7, wherein the first connecting frame comprises a first connecting stand plate and a second connecting stand plate; wherein one end of the first connecting stand plate is connected to the output end of the incline boom effector, one end of the second connecting stand plate is rotatably connected to the case of the incline boom effector, the other ends of the first connecting stand plate and the second connecting stand plate are both connected to the case of the rotate elbow effector, and the first connecting stand plate and the second connecting stand plate are parallelly disposed. 9. The robot manipulator according to claim 8, wherein the first connecting frame comprises a connecting bearing; wherein one end of the second connecting stand plate is connected to the case of the incline boom effector by the connecting bearing. 10. The robot manipulator according to claim 8, wherein the first connecting frame comprises a fixing plate; wherein the fixing plate is connected to the rotate elbow effector, and the other ends of the first connecting stand plate and the second connecting stand plate are both connected to the fixing plate. 11. The robot manipulator according to claim 7, wherein the second connecting frame comprises a third connecting stand plate and a fourth connecting stand plate; wherein one end of the third connecting stand plate is connected to the output end of the elbow effector, the other end of the third connecting stand plate is connected to the case of the rotate wrist effector, one end of the fourth connecting stand plate is rotatably connected to the case of the elbow effector, and the other end of the fourth connecting stand plate is connected to the case of the rotate wrist effector. 12. A robot, comprising at least one robot manipulator as defined in claim 1. | 2,400 |
349,363 | 16,806,935 | 2,483 | Provided is a method for forming an implant with an autonomous manufacturing device. The method includes accessing a first computer-readable reconstruction of a being's anatomy; accessing a second computer-readable reconstruction of an implant; accessing a third computer-readable reconstruction comprising the first computer-readable reconstruction superimposed with the second computer readable reconstruction; generating at least one computer-readable trace from a point cloud; and forming an implant with an autonomous manufacturing device, wherein the autonomous manufacturing device forms the implant into a shape defined by at least one dimension of the computer-readable trace. | 1. A method, comprising:
resecting a portion of a being's anatomy creating a boundary defect; generating at least one computer-readable trace from a point cloud of the boundary defect of the being's anatomy with an anatomical feature removed; and removing excess material from a periphery of an implant generally corresponding to the resected portion of the being's anatomy to form the implant into a shape defined by the computer-readable trace, the implant comprising a polymer, a metal, a bioengineered material, or a combination thereof. 2. The method of claim 1, wherein the step of removing includes causing an implant material-removal tool of an autonomous manufacturing device to remove excess material from the implant. 3. The method of claim 1, wherein the computer-readable trace includes information for generating signals to virtually constrain a human-guided cutting tool using an autonomous manufacturing device. 4. The method of claim 1, wherein the step of removing includes removing portions of the implant that are adjacent to a boundary defined by at least one dimension of the computer-readable trace. 5. The method of claim 4, wherein the step of removing is performed by an autonomous manufacturing device comprising a multi-axis laser cutter machine. 6. The method of claim 4, wherein the computer-readable trace includes information for generating signals to virtually constrain a human-guided cutting tool using an autonomous manufacturing device. 7. The method of claim 1, further comprising fitting the implant onto the being. 8. The method of claim 1, wherein the computer-readable trace comprises a virtual or visual representation of a geometry corresponding to a final shape of a resized implant. 9. The method of claim 1, wherein the implant is formed with a curvature specific to that of the being's anatomy. 10. The method of claim 1, wherein the step of removing is performed by an autonomous manufacturing device comprising a multi-axis laser cutter machine. 11. A system for optimally sizing an implant for implantation within a defect created by resection of a portion of a being's anatomy, wherein resection of the portion of the being's anatomy results in creation of a defect boundary upon removal of an anatomical feature, the system comprising:
a trackable element adapted for attachment to the implant; a trackable element adapted for attachment to a location of the being's anatomy; a trackable pointer tool generating at least one computer-readable trace from a point cloud of the defect boundary; a detector detecting movement of the trackable element adapted for attachment to the implant, the trackable element adapted for attachment to the location of the being's anatomy, and the trackable pointer tool; and a cutting machine removing excess material from a periphery of the implant generally corresponding to the resected portion of the being's anatomy to form the implant into a shape defined by the computer-readable trace, the implant comprising a polymer, a metal, a bioengineered material, or combinations thereof. 12. The system of claim 11, wherein the cutting machine includes an implant material-removal tool of an autonomous manufacturing device. 13. The system of claim 12, wherein the autonomous manufacturing device comprises an articulating arm and the implant material-removal tool detachably connected to an end of the articulating arm. 14. The system of claim 12, wherein the autonomous manufacturing device comprises the implant material-removal tool disposed on a nonstationary platform and a holding platform on which implant material is attached, and wherein the nonstationary platform is configured to advance or retract the implant material-removal tool toward or away from the holding platform. 15. The system of claim 14, wherein the holding platform comprises a nonstationary platform. 16. The system of claim 12, wherein the implant material-removal tool comprises a cutting surface for cutting implant material. 17. The system of claim 12, wherein the implant material-removal tool comprises a laser for ablating implant material. 18. The system of claim 11, wherein the cutting machine includes a human-guided cutting tool constrained by the computer-readable trace. 19. The system of claim 18, wherein the human-guided cutting tool comprises a haptic device, wherein the haptic device receives signals generated in response to signals generated by at least one of a motor encoder, a position trackable element, and/or an electromagnetic trackable element in order to generate a haptic response provided by the human-guided cutting tool. 20. The system of claim 11, wherein the cutting machine includes a multi-axis laser cutter machine. | Provided is a method for forming an implant with an autonomous manufacturing device. The method includes accessing a first computer-readable reconstruction of a being's anatomy; accessing a second computer-readable reconstruction of an implant; accessing a third computer-readable reconstruction comprising the first computer-readable reconstruction superimposed with the second computer readable reconstruction; generating at least one computer-readable trace from a point cloud; and forming an implant with an autonomous manufacturing device, wherein the autonomous manufacturing device forms the implant into a shape defined by at least one dimension of the computer-readable trace.1. A method, comprising:
resecting a portion of a being's anatomy creating a boundary defect; generating at least one computer-readable trace from a point cloud of the boundary defect of the being's anatomy with an anatomical feature removed; and removing excess material from a periphery of an implant generally corresponding to the resected portion of the being's anatomy to form the implant into a shape defined by the computer-readable trace, the implant comprising a polymer, a metal, a bioengineered material, or a combination thereof. 2. The method of claim 1, wherein the step of removing includes causing an implant material-removal tool of an autonomous manufacturing device to remove excess material from the implant. 3. The method of claim 1, wherein the computer-readable trace includes information for generating signals to virtually constrain a human-guided cutting tool using an autonomous manufacturing device. 4. The method of claim 1, wherein the step of removing includes removing portions of the implant that are adjacent to a boundary defined by at least one dimension of the computer-readable trace. 5. The method of claim 4, wherein the step of removing is performed by an autonomous manufacturing device comprising a multi-axis laser cutter machine. 6. The method of claim 4, wherein the computer-readable trace includes information for generating signals to virtually constrain a human-guided cutting tool using an autonomous manufacturing device. 7. The method of claim 1, further comprising fitting the implant onto the being. 8. The method of claim 1, wherein the computer-readable trace comprises a virtual or visual representation of a geometry corresponding to a final shape of a resized implant. 9. The method of claim 1, wherein the implant is formed with a curvature specific to that of the being's anatomy. 10. The method of claim 1, wherein the step of removing is performed by an autonomous manufacturing device comprising a multi-axis laser cutter machine. 11. A system for optimally sizing an implant for implantation within a defect created by resection of a portion of a being's anatomy, wherein resection of the portion of the being's anatomy results in creation of a defect boundary upon removal of an anatomical feature, the system comprising:
a trackable element adapted for attachment to the implant; a trackable element adapted for attachment to a location of the being's anatomy; a trackable pointer tool generating at least one computer-readable trace from a point cloud of the defect boundary; a detector detecting movement of the trackable element adapted for attachment to the implant, the trackable element adapted for attachment to the location of the being's anatomy, and the trackable pointer tool; and a cutting machine removing excess material from a periphery of the implant generally corresponding to the resected portion of the being's anatomy to form the implant into a shape defined by the computer-readable trace, the implant comprising a polymer, a metal, a bioengineered material, or combinations thereof. 12. The system of claim 11, wherein the cutting machine includes an implant material-removal tool of an autonomous manufacturing device. 13. The system of claim 12, wherein the autonomous manufacturing device comprises an articulating arm and the implant material-removal tool detachably connected to an end of the articulating arm. 14. The system of claim 12, wherein the autonomous manufacturing device comprises the implant material-removal tool disposed on a nonstationary platform and a holding platform on which implant material is attached, and wherein the nonstationary platform is configured to advance or retract the implant material-removal tool toward or away from the holding platform. 15. The system of claim 14, wherein the holding platform comprises a nonstationary platform. 16. The system of claim 12, wherein the implant material-removal tool comprises a cutting surface for cutting implant material. 17. The system of claim 12, wherein the implant material-removal tool comprises a laser for ablating implant material. 18. The system of claim 11, wherein the cutting machine includes a human-guided cutting tool constrained by the computer-readable trace. 19. The system of claim 18, wherein the human-guided cutting tool comprises a haptic device, wherein the haptic device receives signals generated in response to signals generated by at least one of a motor encoder, a position trackable element, and/or an electromagnetic trackable element in order to generate a haptic response provided by the human-guided cutting tool. 20. The system of claim 11, wherein the cutting machine includes a multi-axis laser cutter machine. | 2,400 |
349,364 | 16,806,889 | 2,483 | Devices, systems, and techniques for mitigating error from gesture input are disclosed. A system may receive an indication of a first gesture input, determine that the first gesture input is an indicator gesture input, and, responsive to the determination that the first gesture input is the indicator gesture input, enter a gesture control mode during which the system is configured to control one or more actions related to a medical procedure. Only during the gesture control mode, the system may receive an indication of a second gesture input associated with the medical procedure and, responsive to receiving the indication of the second gesture input, control, based on the second gesture input, at least a portion of the medical procedure. Additionally, or alternatively, the system may employ other error mitigation techniques for gesture input related to medical procedures. | 1. A method comprising:
receiving, by a processor, an indication to enter a gesture control mode during which the processor is configured to control one or more actions related to a medical procedure; responsive to receiving the indication, entering, by the processor, the gesture control mode; monitoring, by the processor, field input data received during the gesture control mode for one or more control gesture inputs, the one or more control gesture inputs requesting the processor control the one or more actions related to the medical procedure; determining, by the processor and during the gesture control mode, to exit the gesture control mode; and responsive to determining to exit the gesture control mode, exiting, by the processor, the gesture control mode, wherein exiting the gesture control mode disables gesture input control of the one or more actions related to the medical procedure. 2. The method of claim 1, wherein determining to exit the gesture control mode comprises:
monitoring progress of the medical procedure, wherein the medical procedure comprises a plurality of steps, one step of the plurality of steps being configured to accept the one or more control gesture input controlling the one or more actions related to the medical procedure during the one step; determining that the one step of the medical procedure has been completed; and responsive to determining that the one step has been completed, exiting the gesture control mode. 3. The method of claim 2, wherein the one step is a first step of the plurality of steps, and wherein the method further comprises:
accepting the one or more control gesture inputs of a first plurality of gesture inputs during the first step; determining that the medical procedure has entered a second step of the plurality of steps of the medical procedure; responsive to the determination that the medical procedure has entered the second step of the plurality of steps of the medical procedure, entering the gesture control mode; accepting one or more gesture inputs of a second plurality of gesture inputs during the second step, the second plurality of gesture inputs being different than the first plurality of gesture inputs; determining that the second step of the medical procedure has been completed; and responsive to determining that the second step has been completed, exiting the gesture control mode for the second step. 4. The method of claim 1, wherein determining to exit the gesture control mode comprises:
tracking a duration of time from when the gesture control mode was entered; comparing the duration of time to a predetermined gesture control timeout; determining that the duration of time exceeds the predetermined gesture control timeout; and responsive to determining that the duration of time exceeds the predetermined gesture control timeout, exiting the gesture control mode. 5. The method of claim 4, wherein the predetermined gesture control timeout is a first gesture control timeout specific to a first step of a plurality of steps of the medical procedure, the gesture control mode is entered during the first step, and the first gesture control timeout is different from a second gesture control timeout specific to a second step of the plurality of steps of the medical procedure. 6. The method of claim 1, further comprising:
receiving first field input data during the gesture control mode; detecting, from the first field input data, an unexpected object in an envelope within which gesture input can be sensed; responsive to detecting the unexpected object, suspending the gesture control mode to prevent detection of erroneous gesture input due to the unexpected object; receiving second field input data during the suspension of the gesture control mode; detecting, from the second field input data, that the unexpected object is no longer in the envelope; and responsive to detecting that the unexpected object is no longer in the envelope, re-entering the gesture control mode. 7. The method of claim 1, further comprising:
receiving, during the gesture control mode, an indication of one or more control gesture inputs requesting the processor control the one or more actions related to the medical procedure; receiving, during the gesture control mode, a confirmation gesture input confirming the one or more control gesture inputs; and responsive to receiving both the one or more control gesture inputs and the confirmation gesture confirmation input, controlling, based on the one or more control gesture inputs, the one or more actions related to the medical procedure. 8. The method of claim 1, wherein control of the one or more actions related to the medical procedure comprises adjustment of a parameter that at least partially defines a medical therapy. 9. The method of claim 1, wherein control of the one or more actions of the medical procedure comprises control of a surgical device to operate with respect to a patient receiving the medical procedure. 10. The method of claim 1, wherein the medical procedure comprises a surgical procedure. 11. The method of claim 1, wherein the medical procedure comprises an implantation of one or more medical devices. 12. The method of claim 1, wherein the medical procedure comprises adjusting one or more parameters that at least partially define electrical stimulation therapy. 13. The method of claim 1, wherein the processor is housed within one of a networked server, a medical device programmer, or an implantable medical device. 14. A system comprising:
one or more processors configured to: receive an indication to enter a gesture control mode during which the processor is configured to control one or more actions related to a medical procedure; responsive to receiving the indication, enter the gesture control mode; monitor field input data received during the gesture control mode for one or more control gesture inputs, the one or more control gesture inputs requesting the processor control the one or more actions related to the medical procedure; determine, during the gesture control mode, to exit the gesture control mode; and responsive to determining to exit the gesture control mode, exit the gesture control mode, wherein exiting the gesture control mode disables gesture input control of the one or more actions related to the medical procedure. 15. The system of claim 14, wherein the one or more processors are configured to determine to exit the gesture control mode by:
monitoring a progress of the medical procedure, wherein the medical procedure comprises a plurality of steps, one step of the plurality of steps being configured to accept the one or more control gesture inputs controlling the one or more actions related to the medical procedure during the one step; determining that the one step of the medical procedure has been completed; and responsive to determining that the one step has been completed, exiting the gesture control mode. 16. The system of claim 15, wherein the one step is a first step of the plurality of steps, and wherein the one or more processors are configured to:
accept the one or more control gesture inputs of a first plurality of gesture inputs during the first step; determine that the medical procedure has entered a second step of the plurality of steps of the medical procedure; responsive to the determination that the medical procedure has entered the second step of the plurality of steps of the medical procedure, enter the gesture control mode; accept one or more gesture inputs of a second plurality of gesture inputs during the second step, the second plurality of gesture inputs being different than the first plurality of gesture inputs; determine that the second step of the medical procedure has been completed; and responsive to determining that the second step has been completed, exit the gesture control mode for the second step. 17. The system of claim 14, wherein the one or more processors are configured to determine to exit the gesture control mode by:
tracking a duration of time from when the gesture control mode was entered; comparing the duration of time to a predetermined gesture control timeout; determining that the duration of time exceeds the predetermined gesture control timeout; and responsive to determining that the duration of time exceeds the predetermined gesture control timeout, exiting the gesture control mode. 18. The system of claim 14, wherein the one or more processors are configured to:
receive first field input data during the gesture control mode; detect, from the first field input data, an unexpected object in an envelope within which gesture input can be sensed; responsive to detecting the unexpected object, suspend the gesture control mode to prevent detection of erroneous gesture input due to the unexpected object; receive second field input data during the suspension of the gesture control mode; detect, from the second field input data, that the unexpected object is no longer in the envelope; and responsive to detecting that the unexpected object is no longer in the envelope, re-enter the gesture control mode. 19. The system of claim 14, wherein control of the one or more actions related to the medical procedure comprises adjustment of a parameter that at least partially defines a medical therapy. 20. The system of claim 14, wherein control the one or more actions of the medical procedure comprises control of a surgical device to operate with respect to a patient receiving the medical procedure. | Devices, systems, and techniques for mitigating error from gesture input are disclosed. A system may receive an indication of a first gesture input, determine that the first gesture input is an indicator gesture input, and, responsive to the determination that the first gesture input is the indicator gesture input, enter a gesture control mode during which the system is configured to control one or more actions related to a medical procedure. Only during the gesture control mode, the system may receive an indication of a second gesture input associated with the medical procedure and, responsive to receiving the indication of the second gesture input, control, based on the second gesture input, at least a portion of the medical procedure. Additionally, or alternatively, the system may employ other error mitigation techniques for gesture input related to medical procedures.1. A method comprising:
receiving, by a processor, an indication to enter a gesture control mode during which the processor is configured to control one or more actions related to a medical procedure; responsive to receiving the indication, entering, by the processor, the gesture control mode; monitoring, by the processor, field input data received during the gesture control mode for one or more control gesture inputs, the one or more control gesture inputs requesting the processor control the one or more actions related to the medical procedure; determining, by the processor and during the gesture control mode, to exit the gesture control mode; and responsive to determining to exit the gesture control mode, exiting, by the processor, the gesture control mode, wherein exiting the gesture control mode disables gesture input control of the one or more actions related to the medical procedure. 2. The method of claim 1, wherein determining to exit the gesture control mode comprises:
monitoring progress of the medical procedure, wherein the medical procedure comprises a plurality of steps, one step of the plurality of steps being configured to accept the one or more control gesture input controlling the one or more actions related to the medical procedure during the one step; determining that the one step of the medical procedure has been completed; and responsive to determining that the one step has been completed, exiting the gesture control mode. 3. The method of claim 2, wherein the one step is a first step of the plurality of steps, and wherein the method further comprises:
accepting the one or more control gesture inputs of a first plurality of gesture inputs during the first step; determining that the medical procedure has entered a second step of the plurality of steps of the medical procedure; responsive to the determination that the medical procedure has entered the second step of the plurality of steps of the medical procedure, entering the gesture control mode; accepting one or more gesture inputs of a second plurality of gesture inputs during the second step, the second plurality of gesture inputs being different than the first plurality of gesture inputs; determining that the second step of the medical procedure has been completed; and responsive to determining that the second step has been completed, exiting the gesture control mode for the second step. 4. The method of claim 1, wherein determining to exit the gesture control mode comprises:
tracking a duration of time from when the gesture control mode was entered; comparing the duration of time to a predetermined gesture control timeout; determining that the duration of time exceeds the predetermined gesture control timeout; and responsive to determining that the duration of time exceeds the predetermined gesture control timeout, exiting the gesture control mode. 5. The method of claim 4, wherein the predetermined gesture control timeout is a first gesture control timeout specific to a first step of a plurality of steps of the medical procedure, the gesture control mode is entered during the first step, and the first gesture control timeout is different from a second gesture control timeout specific to a second step of the plurality of steps of the medical procedure. 6. The method of claim 1, further comprising:
receiving first field input data during the gesture control mode; detecting, from the first field input data, an unexpected object in an envelope within which gesture input can be sensed; responsive to detecting the unexpected object, suspending the gesture control mode to prevent detection of erroneous gesture input due to the unexpected object; receiving second field input data during the suspension of the gesture control mode; detecting, from the second field input data, that the unexpected object is no longer in the envelope; and responsive to detecting that the unexpected object is no longer in the envelope, re-entering the gesture control mode. 7. The method of claim 1, further comprising:
receiving, during the gesture control mode, an indication of one or more control gesture inputs requesting the processor control the one or more actions related to the medical procedure; receiving, during the gesture control mode, a confirmation gesture input confirming the one or more control gesture inputs; and responsive to receiving both the one or more control gesture inputs and the confirmation gesture confirmation input, controlling, based on the one or more control gesture inputs, the one or more actions related to the medical procedure. 8. The method of claim 1, wherein control of the one or more actions related to the medical procedure comprises adjustment of a parameter that at least partially defines a medical therapy. 9. The method of claim 1, wherein control of the one or more actions of the medical procedure comprises control of a surgical device to operate with respect to a patient receiving the medical procedure. 10. The method of claim 1, wherein the medical procedure comprises a surgical procedure. 11. The method of claim 1, wherein the medical procedure comprises an implantation of one or more medical devices. 12. The method of claim 1, wherein the medical procedure comprises adjusting one or more parameters that at least partially define electrical stimulation therapy. 13. The method of claim 1, wherein the processor is housed within one of a networked server, a medical device programmer, or an implantable medical device. 14. A system comprising:
one or more processors configured to: receive an indication to enter a gesture control mode during which the processor is configured to control one or more actions related to a medical procedure; responsive to receiving the indication, enter the gesture control mode; monitor field input data received during the gesture control mode for one or more control gesture inputs, the one or more control gesture inputs requesting the processor control the one or more actions related to the medical procedure; determine, during the gesture control mode, to exit the gesture control mode; and responsive to determining to exit the gesture control mode, exit the gesture control mode, wherein exiting the gesture control mode disables gesture input control of the one or more actions related to the medical procedure. 15. The system of claim 14, wherein the one or more processors are configured to determine to exit the gesture control mode by:
monitoring a progress of the medical procedure, wherein the medical procedure comprises a plurality of steps, one step of the plurality of steps being configured to accept the one or more control gesture inputs controlling the one or more actions related to the medical procedure during the one step; determining that the one step of the medical procedure has been completed; and responsive to determining that the one step has been completed, exiting the gesture control mode. 16. The system of claim 15, wherein the one step is a first step of the plurality of steps, and wherein the one or more processors are configured to:
accept the one or more control gesture inputs of a first plurality of gesture inputs during the first step; determine that the medical procedure has entered a second step of the plurality of steps of the medical procedure; responsive to the determination that the medical procedure has entered the second step of the plurality of steps of the medical procedure, enter the gesture control mode; accept one or more gesture inputs of a second plurality of gesture inputs during the second step, the second plurality of gesture inputs being different than the first plurality of gesture inputs; determine that the second step of the medical procedure has been completed; and responsive to determining that the second step has been completed, exit the gesture control mode for the second step. 17. The system of claim 14, wherein the one or more processors are configured to determine to exit the gesture control mode by:
tracking a duration of time from when the gesture control mode was entered; comparing the duration of time to a predetermined gesture control timeout; determining that the duration of time exceeds the predetermined gesture control timeout; and responsive to determining that the duration of time exceeds the predetermined gesture control timeout, exiting the gesture control mode. 18. The system of claim 14, wherein the one or more processors are configured to:
receive first field input data during the gesture control mode; detect, from the first field input data, an unexpected object in an envelope within which gesture input can be sensed; responsive to detecting the unexpected object, suspend the gesture control mode to prevent detection of erroneous gesture input due to the unexpected object; receive second field input data during the suspension of the gesture control mode; detect, from the second field input data, that the unexpected object is no longer in the envelope; and responsive to detecting that the unexpected object is no longer in the envelope, re-enter the gesture control mode. 19. The system of claim 14, wherein control of the one or more actions related to the medical procedure comprises adjustment of a parameter that at least partially defines a medical therapy. 20. The system of claim 14, wherein control the one or more actions of the medical procedure comprises control of a surgical device to operate with respect to a patient receiving the medical procedure. | 2,400 |
349,365 | 16,806,910 | 2,483 | The present disclosure relates to the use of ADCs comprising anti-CD25 antibodies for in treating disorders characterized by the presence of CD25+ve cells. | 1.-124. (canceled) 125. A method of treating CD25+ve acute myeloid leukemia (AML) in a subject, said method comprising administering to a subject a conjugate of formula L-(DL)p wherein DL is of formula I or IL 126. The method of claim 125, wherein:
R7 is a C1-4 alkyloxy group, Y is O, R″ is C3-7 alkylene, R9 is H, and/or R6 is selected from H and halo. 127. The method of claim 125, wherein:
(A) there is a double bond between C2′ and C3′, and R12 is:
(i) a C5-7 aryl group, which may bear one to three substituent groups selected from methoxy, ethoxy, fluoro, chloro, cyano, bis-oxy-methylene, methyl-piperazinyl, morpholino and methyl-thiophenyl; or
(ii) methyl, ethyl or propyl; or
(iii) cyclopropyl; or
(iv) a group of formula: 128. The method of claim 125, wherein:
(A) there is a double bond between C2 and C3, and R2 is:
(i) a C5-7 aryl group which may bear one to three substituent groups selected from methoxy, ethoxy, fluoro, chloro, cyano, bis-oxy-methylene, methyl-piperazinyl, morpholino and methyl-thiophenyl; or
(ii) methyl, ethyl or propyl; or
(iii) cyclopropyl; or
(iv) a group of formula: 129. The method of claim 125, wherein R20 is RC, wherein RC is a group: 130. The method of claim 125, wherein:
(a) R22 is of formula IIIa, and A is phenyl, Q1 is a single bond, and Q2 is a single bond; or (b) R22 is of formula IIIb, and RC1, RC2 and RC3 are all H; and X is NH—RL2′. 131. The method of claim 125, wherein:
(A) R6′, R7′, R9′, and Y′ are the same as R6, R7, R9, and Y; and/or (B) L-RL1′ or L-RL2′ is a group: 132. The method of claim 125, wherein DL is selected from the group comprising: 133. The method of claim 125, wherein the antibody comprises:
(A) a VH domain comprising a VH CDR1 with the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO. 3, a VH CDR2 with the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO. 4, and a VH CDR3 with the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO. 5, and, optionally, a VL domain comprising a VL CDR1 with the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO. 6, a VL CDR2 with the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO. 7, and a VL CDR3 with the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO. 8, and/or (B) a VH domain having the sequence according to SEQ ID NO. 1, and, optionally further comprises a VL domain having the sequence according to SEQ ID NO. 2. 134. The method of claim 125, wherein:
the drug loading (p) of drugs (D) to antibody (Ab) is an integer from 1 to about 8; the drug loading (p) of drugs (D) to antibody (Ab) is 1, 2, 3, or 4; or the average drug loading per antibody in the mixture of antibody-drug conjugate compounds is about 2 to about 5. 135. The method of claim 125, wherein the conjugate is ADCT-301. 136. The method of claim 125, wherein the method further comprises a step of screening a subject to identify the presence of CD25+ve acute myeloid leukemia;
optionally, wherein said screening is performed by means of a companion diagnostic which identifies CD25+ve cells by means of immunohistochemistry. 137. The method of claim 125, wherein said method further comprises:
(i) identifying the presence in the subject of CD25+ve acute myeloid leukemia, optionally wherein said identifying is performed by means of a companion diagnostic which identifies CD25+ve cells by means of immunohistochemistry; and (ii) administering to the subject the antibody-drug conjugate compound. 138. The method of claim 125, wherein:
(i) said proliferative disease is Hodgkin's lymphoma or non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, optionally wherein the non-Hodgkin's lymphoma is selected from: Peripheral T cell lymphoma; Cutaneous T cell lymphoma; Diffuse large B cell lymphoma; Follicular lymphoma; Mantle cell lymphoma; Chronic lymphocytic leukemia; Anaplastic large cell lymphoma; Acute myeloid leukemia; Acute lymphoblastic leukemia; (ii) the neoplasm or neoplastic cells are, or are present in, a non-hematological cancer; (iii) said neoplasm or neoplastic cells are, or are present in, a solid tumor; (iv) said neoplasm or neoplastic cells are malignant; or (v) said neoplasm or neoplastic cells are metastatic. | The present disclosure relates to the use of ADCs comprising anti-CD25 antibodies for in treating disorders characterized by the presence of CD25+ve cells.1.-124. (canceled) 125. A method of treating CD25+ve acute myeloid leukemia (AML) in a subject, said method comprising administering to a subject a conjugate of formula L-(DL)p wherein DL is of formula I or IL 126. The method of claim 125, wherein:
R7 is a C1-4 alkyloxy group, Y is O, R″ is C3-7 alkylene, R9 is H, and/or R6 is selected from H and halo. 127. The method of claim 125, wherein:
(A) there is a double bond between C2′ and C3′, and R12 is:
(i) a C5-7 aryl group, which may bear one to three substituent groups selected from methoxy, ethoxy, fluoro, chloro, cyano, bis-oxy-methylene, methyl-piperazinyl, morpholino and methyl-thiophenyl; or
(ii) methyl, ethyl or propyl; or
(iii) cyclopropyl; or
(iv) a group of formula: 128. The method of claim 125, wherein:
(A) there is a double bond between C2 and C3, and R2 is:
(i) a C5-7 aryl group which may bear one to three substituent groups selected from methoxy, ethoxy, fluoro, chloro, cyano, bis-oxy-methylene, methyl-piperazinyl, morpholino and methyl-thiophenyl; or
(ii) methyl, ethyl or propyl; or
(iii) cyclopropyl; or
(iv) a group of formula: 129. The method of claim 125, wherein R20 is RC, wherein RC is a group: 130. The method of claim 125, wherein:
(a) R22 is of formula IIIa, and A is phenyl, Q1 is a single bond, and Q2 is a single bond; or (b) R22 is of formula IIIb, and RC1, RC2 and RC3 are all H; and X is NH—RL2′. 131. The method of claim 125, wherein:
(A) R6′, R7′, R9′, and Y′ are the same as R6, R7, R9, and Y; and/or (B) L-RL1′ or L-RL2′ is a group: 132. The method of claim 125, wherein DL is selected from the group comprising: 133. The method of claim 125, wherein the antibody comprises:
(A) a VH domain comprising a VH CDR1 with the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO. 3, a VH CDR2 with the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO. 4, and a VH CDR3 with the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO. 5, and, optionally, a VL domain comprising a VL CDR1 with the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO. 6, a VL CDR2 with the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO. 7, and a VL CDR3 with the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO. 8, and/or (B) a VH domain having the sequence according to SEQ ID NO. 1, and, optionally further comprises a VL domain having the sequence according to SEQ ID NO. 2. 134. The method of claim 125, wherein:
the drug loading (p) of drugs (D) to antibody (Ab) is an integer from 1 to about 8; the drug loading (p) of drugs (D) to antibody (Ab) is 1, 2, 3, or 4; or the average drug loading per antibody in the mixture of antibody-drug conjugate compounds is about 2 to about 5. 135. The method of claim 125, wherein the conjugate is ADCT-301. 136. The method of claim 125, wherein the method further comprises a step of screening a subject to identify the presence of CD25+ve acute myeloid leukemia;
optionally, wherein said screening is performed by means of a companion diagnostic which identifies CD25+ve cells by means of immunohistochemistry. 137. The method of claim 125, wherein said method further comprises:
(i) identifying the presence in the subject of CD25+ve acute myeloid leukemia, optionally wherein said identifying is performed by means of a companion diagnostic which identifies CD25+ve cells by means of immunohistochemistry; and (ii) administering to the subject the antibody-drug conjugate compound. 138. The method of claim 125, wherein:
(i) said proliferative disease is Hodgkin's lymphoma or non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, optionally wherein the non-Hodgkin's lymphoma is selected from: Peripheral T cell lymphoma; Cutaneous T cell lymphoma; Diffuse large B cell lymphoma; Follicular lymphoma; Mantle cell lymphoma; Chronic lymphocytic leukemia; Anaplastic large cell lymphoma; Acute myeloid leukemia; Acute lymphoblastic leukemia; (ii) the neoplasm or neoplastic cells are, or are present in, a non-hematological cancer; (iii) said neoplasm or neoplastic cells are, or are present in, a solid tumor; (iv) said neoplasm or neoplastic cells are malignant; or (v) said neoplasm or neoplastic cells are metastatic. | 2,400 |
349,366 | 16,806,944 | 2,483 | Step detection methods and apparatus are described. According to one aspect, a footstep detection method includes obtaining accelerometer data regarding movements of a user device, filtering the accelerometer data to remove frequencies above a typical stepping frequency range of a user, after the filtering, analyzing individual ones of a plurality of cycles of the accelerometer data to determine whether any of the individual cycles corresponds to a user taking a footstep with the user device, and as a result of the analyzing, indicating at least one of the individual cycles as corresponding to the user taking a footstep. | 1: A footstep detection method comprising:
obtaining accelerometer data regarding movements of a user device; filtering the accelerometer data to remove frequencies above a typical stepping frequency range of a user; after the filtering, analyzing individual ones of a plurality of cycles of the accelerometer data to determine whether any of the individual cycles corresponds to a user taking a footstep with the user device; and as a result of the analyzing, indicating at least one of the individual cycles as corresponding to the user taking a footstep. 2: The method of claim 1 wherein the analyzing an individual one of the cycles comprises analyzing a period of the individual cycle with respect to a period of a typical footstep cycle which corresponds to a typical footstep. 3: The method of claim 2 wherein the indicating comprises indicating the at least one cycle as corresponding to the user taking the footstep as a result of the period of the individual cycle being less than the period of the typical footstep cycle. 4: The method of claim 2 wherein the analyzing identifies an other of the cycles as not corresponding to the user taking the footstep as a result of the period of the other of the cycles being greater than the period of the typical footstep cycle. 5: The method of claim 1 wherein the analyzing an individual one of the cycles comprises analyzing less than the entirety of the individual cycle. 6: The method of claim 5 wherein the analyzing the individual one of the cycles comprises comparing only a portion of the individual cycle with a predefined length of time. 7: The method of claim 1 wherein the analyzing filters cycles having frequencies less than a typical stepping frequency range. 8: The method of claim 1 wherein the indicating the at least one cycle as corresponding to the user taking a footstep comprises indicating as a result of the accelerometer data of the at least one cycle either one of:
decreasing while crossing a low threshold;
increasing while crossing a high threshold; and
the crossings of the low and high thresholds occur within a cutoff period of time; or
decreasing while crossing the high threshold;
increasing while crossing the low threshold; and
the crossings of the low and high thresholds occur within the cutoff period of time. 9: The method of claim 8 further comprising adjusting the low and high thresholds using an amplitude of the accelerometer data. 10: The method of claim 8 wherein the cutoff period of time is longer than half the period of a typical footstep cycle of the user and less than the period of a typical footstep cycle which corresponds to a footstep of the user. 11: The method of claim 1 wherein the filtering comprises filtering using a digital Finite Impulse Response filter. 12: The method of claim 11 wherein the digital Finite Impulse Response Filter employs a 16-element coefficient vector to perform the filtering. 13: The method of claim 12 wherein the filtering the accelerometer data comprises low passing frequencies below 4 Hz. 14: The method of claim 13 wherein the analyzing the accelerometer data comprises high pass filtering the accelerometer data. 15: The method of claim 14 where the high pass filtering comprises filtering with a high pass filter having an infinitely small transition zone. 16: The method of claim 15 wherein the filtering and analyzing band pass filter the accelerometer data about the typical stepping frequency range of 1-4 Hz. 17: The method of claim 1 wherein the obtaining comprises obtaining the accelerometer data from an accelerometer sensor of the user device which is configured to provide the accelerometer data from one of a plurality of axes of a device coordinate reference frame of the user device. 18: The method of claim 17 wherein the transforming provides the acceleration data only comprising acceleration information regarding the stepping of the user in a Z axis of the global coordinate reference frame. 19: The method of claim 17 wherein the analyzing comprises analyzing using only the accelerometer data in a Z axis of the global coordinate reference frame. 20: The method of claim 1 wherein the analyzing identifies the at least one cycle as corresponding to the user taking a footstep as a result of the accelerometer data of the at least one cycle having an amplitude which is less than a threshold amplitude which is indicative of a typical footstep. 21-26. (canceled) | Step detection methods and apparatus are described. According to one aspect, a footstep detection method includes obtaining accelerometer data regarding movements of a user device, filtering the accelerometer data to remove frequencies above a typical stepping frequency range of a user, after the filtering, analyzing individual ones of a plurality of cycles of the accelerometer data to determine whether any of the individual cycles corresponds to a user taking a footstep with the user device, and as a result of the analyzing, indicating at least one of the individual cycles as corresponding to the user taking a footstep.1: A footstep detection method comprising:
obtaining accelerometer data regarding movements of a user device; filtering the accelerometer data to remove frequencies above a typical stepping frequency range of a user; after the filtering, analyzing individual ones of a plurality of cycles of the accelerometer data to determine whether any of the individual cycles corresponds to a user taking a footstep with the user device; and as a result of the analyzing, indicating at least one of the individual cycles as corresponding to the user taking a footstep. 2: The method of claim 1 wherein the analyzing an individual one of the cycles comprises analyzing a period of the individual cycle with respect to a period of a typical footstep cycle which corresponds to a typical footstep. 3: The method of claim 2 wherein the indicating comprises indicating the at least one cycle as corresponding to the user taking the footstep as a result of the period of the individual cycle being less than the period of the typical footstep cycle. 4: The method of claim 2 wherein the analyzing identifies an other of the cycles as not corresponding to the user taking the footstep as a result of the period of the other of the cycles being greater than the period of the typical footstep cycle. 5: The method of claim 1 wherein the analyzing an individual one of the cycles comprises analyzing less than the entirety of the individual cycle. 6: The method of claim 5 wherein the analyzing the individual one of the cycles comprises comparing only a portion of the individual cycle with a predefined length of time. 7: The method of claim 1 wherein the analyzing filters cycles having frequencies less than a typical stepping frequency range. 8: The method of claim 1 wherein the indicating the at least one cycle as corresponding to the user taking a footstep comprises indicating as a result of the accelerometer data of the at least one cycle either one of:
decreasing while crossing a low threshold;
increasing while crossing a high threshold; and
the crossings of the low and high thresholds occur within a cutoff period of time; or
decreasing while crossing the high threshold;
increasing while crossing the low threshold; and
the crossings of the low and high thresholds occur within the cutoff period of time. 9: The method of claim 8 further comprising adjusting the low and high thresholds using an amplitude of the accelerometer data. 10: The method of claim 8 wherein the cutoff period of time is longer than half the period of a typical footstep cycle of the user and less than the period of a typical footstep cycle which corresponds to a footstep of the user. 11: The method of claim 1 wherein the filtering comprises filtering using a digital Finite Impulse Response filter. 12: The method of claim 11 wherein the digital Finite Impulse Response Filter employs a 16-element coefficient vector to perform the filtering. 13: The method of claim 12 wherein the filtering the accelerometer data comprises low passing frequencies below 4 Hz. 14: The method of claim 13 wherein the analyzing the accelerometer data comprises high pass filtering the accelerometer data. 15: The method of claim 14 where the high pass filtering comprises filtering with a high pass filter having an infinitely small transition zone. 16: The method of claim 15 wherein the filtering and analyzing band pass filter the accelerometer data about the typical stepping frequency range of 1-4 Hz. 17: The method of claim 1 wherein the obtaining comprises obtaining the accelerometer data from an accelerometer sensor of the user device which is configured to provide the accelerometer data from one of a plurality of axes of a device coordinate reference frame of the user device. 18: The method of claim 17 wherein the transforming provides the acceleration data only comprising acceleration information regarding the stepping of the user in a Z axis of the global coordinate reference frame. 19: The method of claim 17 wherein the analyzing comprises analyzing using only the accelerometer data in a Z axis of the global coordinate reference frame. 20: The method of claim 1 wherein the analyzing identifies the at least one cycle as corresponding to the user taking a footstep as a result of the accelerometer data of the at least one cycle having an amplitude which is less than a threshold amplitude which is indicative of a typical footstep. 21-26. (canceled) | 2,400 |
349,367 | 16,806,916 | 2,483 | A system and method for analyzing and improving the performance of a body motion of an animal or human subject requires instrumenting a subject with inertial sensors, monitoring a body motion of interest, converting sensor data into motion data and animation, comparing the motion data with existing data for motion related performance parameters, providing a real-time, information rich, animation and data display of the results in color coded displays; and based on the results prescribing a training regime with exercises selected from a library of standardized exercises using standardized tools and training aids. | 1-20. (canceled) 21. A system, comprising:
a motion sensor configured to be coupled to a club at a first location of the club, the motion sensor configured to capture motion data associated with a movement of the club; a video camera configured to capture a video signal of the movement of the club during execution of the movement; a wireless transmitter configured to transmit the motion data to a processor, the processor configured to process the motion data to determine one or more values associated with the movement and to translate the motion data or the values to correspond to a second location of the club located away from the first location; and a display unit configured to receive and graphically display at least one of the data and the one or more values, an animation of the club movement based on the captured motion data, and the video signal associated with the club movement, wherein the club comprises a first end at which a handle is located and a second end corresponding to the second location, wherein the one or more values are determined during the club movement and used to define a swing plane of the club and the vertical angle that the club head travels through at time of impact with an object, wherein the processor is configured to calculate the forces on the object at the time of impact and calculate a trajectory and spin rate of the object based on the one or more values, wherein the display unit graphically displays the swing plane of the club and the vertical angle that the club head travels through at the time of impact with the object, and displays the calculated forces on the object and the trajectory and the spin rate of the object after the time of impact, wherein the processor compares the one or more values determined during the club movement to a predetermined range of limits associated with the club movement and signals when any of the one or more determined values is not within the predetermined range, wherein the signal is biofeedback to a user in a form that differs between a successful club movement and an unsuccessful club movement, and whereby the successful club movement is determined when the one or more values determined during the club movement is within the predetermined range of limits associated with the club movement and the unsuccessful execution of the body motion is determined when the one or more values determined during the club movement is outside the predetermined range of limits associated with the club movement. 22. The system of claim 21, wherein the animation and the video signal are synchronized by the processor and the synchronized animation and video signal are displayed simultaneously on the display unit. 23. The system of claim 21, wherein the club is a baseball bat and the object is a ball. 24. The system of claim 21, wherein the club is a golf club and the object is a ball. 25. A method, comprising:
coupling a motion sensor to a club; capturing motion data associated with a movement of the club via the motion sensor; capturing a video signal of the movement of the club during execution of the movement via a video camera; transmitting the motion data to a processor via a wireless transmitter; processing, via the processor, the motion data to determine one or more values associated with the movement; and graphically displaying, via a display unit, at least one of the one or more values, an animation of the club movement based on the captured motion data, and the video signal associated with the club movement, wherein the one or more values associated with the club movement are used to define a swing plane of the club and the vertical angle that the club head travels through at time of impact with an object, wherein the processor is configured to calculate the forces on the object at the time of impact and calculate a trajectory and spin rate of the object based on the one or more values, wherein the display unit graphically displays the swing plane of the club and the vertical angle that a head of the club travels through at the time of impact with the object, and displays the calculated forces on the object and the trajectory and the spin rate of the object after the time of impact, wherein the processor compares the one or more values associated with the club movement to a predetermined range of limits associated with the club movement and signals when any of the one or more determined values is not within the predetermined range, wherein the signal is biofeedback to a user in a form that differs between a successful club movement and an unsuccessful club movement, and whereby the successful club movement is determined when the one or more values determined during the club movement is within the predetermined range of limits associated with the club movement and the unsuccessful execution of the body motion is determined when the one or more values determined during the club movement is outside the predetermined range of limits associated with the club movement. 26. The method of claim 25, further comprising synchronizing, via the processor, at least two of the one or more values, the animation of the club movement, and the video signal, and displaying the synchronized one or more values, animation and video signal simultaneously on the display unit. 27. The method of claim 25, further comprising synchronizing, via the processor, the animation and the video signal, and displaying the synchronized animation and video signal simultaneously on the display unit. 28. The method of claim 25, wherein the club is a baseball bat and the object is a ball. 29. The method of claim 25, wherein the club is a golf club and the object is a ball. 30. A method, comprising:
receiving, via a processor: motion data associated with a movement of a club, the motion data being captured from a motion sensor coupled to the club; and a video signal of the movement of the club during execution of the movement, wherein processing, via the processor, the motion data to determine one or more values associated with the movement of the club; generating, via the processor, a graphical user interface configured to display at least one of the one or more values, an animation of the club movement based on the captured motion data, and the video signal associated with the club movement, wherein the processor is configured to define a swing plane of the club and the vertical angle that a head of the club travels through at time of impact with an object based on the one or more values, wherein the processor is configured to calculate the forces on the object at the time of impact and calculate a trajectory and spin rate of the object based on the one or more values, wherein the processor compares the one or more values determined during the club movement to a predetermined range of limits associated with the club movement and signals when any of the one or more determined values is not within the predetermined range, wherein the signal is biofeedback to a user in a form that differs between a successful club movement and an unsuccessful club movement, and whereby the successful club movement is determined when the one or more values determined during the club movement is within the predetermined range of limits associated with the club movement and the unsuccessful execution of the body motion is determined when the one or more values determined during the club movement is outside the predetermined range of limits associated with the club movement. 31. The method of claim 30, further comprising graphically displaying, via a display unit, the swing plane of the club and the vertical angle that the club head travels through at the time of impact with the object, and displaying, via the display unit, the calculated forces on the object and the trajectory and the spin rate of the object after the time of impact. | A system and method for analyzing and improving the performance of a body motion of an animal or human subject requires instrumenting a subject with inertial sensors, monitoring a body motion of interest, converting sensor data into motion data and animation, comparing the motion data with existing data for motion related performance parameters, providing a real-time, information rich, animation and data display of the results in color coded displays; and based on the results prescribing a training regime with exercises selected from a library of standardized exercises using standardized tools and training aids.1-20. (canceled) 21. A system, comprising:
a motion sensor configured to be coupled to a club at a first location of the club, the motion sensor configured to capture motion data associated with a movement of the club; a video camera configured to capture a video signal of the movement of the club during execution of the movement; a wireless transmitter configured to transmit the motion data to a processor, the processor configured to process the motion data to determine one or more values associated with the movement and to translate the motion data or the values to correspond to a second location of the club located away from the first location; and a display unit configured to receive and graphically display at least one of the data and the one or more values, an animation of the club movement based on the captured motion data, and the video signal associated with the club movement, wherein the club comprises a first end at which a handle is located and a second end corresponding to the second location, wherein the one or more values are determined during the club movement and used to define a swing plane of the club and the vertical angle that the club head travels through at time of impact with an object, wherein the processor is configured to calculate the forces on the object at the time of impact and calculate a trajectory and spin rate of the object based on the one or more values, wherein the display unit graphically displays the swing plane of the club and the vertical angle that the club head travels through at the time of impact with the object, and displays the calculated forces on the object and the trajectory and the spin rate of the object after the time of impact, wherein the processor compares the one or more values determined during the club movement to a predetermined range of limits associated with the club movement and signals when any of the one or more determined values is not within the predetermined range, wherein the signal is biofeedback to a user in a form that differs between a successful club movement and an unsuccessful club movement, and whereby the successful club movement is determined when the one or more values determined during the club movement is within the predetermined range of limits associated with the club movement and the unsuccessful execution of the body motion is determined when the one or more values determined during the club movement is outside the predetermined range of limits associated with the club movement. 22. The system of claim 21, wherein the animation and the video signal are synchronized by the processor and the synchronized animation and video signal are displayed simultaneously on the display unit. 23. The system of claim 21, wherein the club is a baseball bat and the object is a ball. 24. The system of claim 21, wherein the club is a golf club and the object is a ball. 25. A method, comprising:
coupling a motion sensor to a club; capturing motion data associated with a movement of the club via the motion sensor; capturing a video signal of the movement of the club during execution of the movement via a video camera; transmitting the motion data to a processor via a wireless transmitter; processing, via the processor, the motion data to determine one or more values associated with the movement; and graphically displaying, via a display unit, at least one of the one or more values, an animation of the club movement based on the captured motion data, and the video signal associated with the club movement, wherein the one or more values associated with the club movement are used to define a swing plane of the club and the vertical angle that the club head travels through at time of impact with an object, wherein the processor is configured to calculate the forces on the object at the time of impact and calculate a trajectory and spin rate of the object based on the one or more values, wherein the display unit graphically displays the swing plane of the club and the vertical angle that a head of the club travels through at the time of impact with the object, and displays the calculated forces on the object and the trajectory and the spin rate of the object after the time of impact, wherein the processor compares the one or more values associated with the club movement to a predetermined range of limits associated with the club movement and signals when any of the one or more determined values is not within the predetermined range, wherein the signal is biofeedback to a user in a form that differs between a successful club movement and an unsuccessful club movement, and whereby the successful club movement is determined when the one or more values determined during the club movement is within the predetermined range of limits associated with the club movement and the unsuccessful execution of the body motion is determined when the one or more values determined during the club movement is outside the predetermined range of limits associated with the club movement. 26. The method of claim 25, further comprising synchronizing, via the processor, at least two of the one or more values, the animation of the club movement, and the video signal, and displaying the synchronized one or more values, animation and video signal simultaneously on the display unit. 27. The method of claim 25, further comprising synchronizing, via the processor, the animation and the video signal, and displaying the synchronized animation and video signal simultaneously on the display unit. 28. The method of claim 25, wherein the club is a baseball bat and the object is a ball. 29. The method of claim 25, wherein the club is a golf club and the object is a ball. 30. A method, comprising:
receiving, via a processor: motion data associated with a movement of a club, the motion data being captured from a motion sensor coupled to the club; and a video signal of the movement of the club during execution of the movement, wherein processing, via the processor, the motion data to determine one or more values associated with the movement of the club; generating, via the processor, a graphical user interface configured to display at least one of the one or more values, an animation of the club movement based on the captured motion data, and the video signal associated with the club movement, wherein the processor is configured to define a swing plane of the club and the vertical angle that a head of the club travels through at time of impact with an object based on the one or more values, wherein the processor is configured to calculate the forces on the object at the time of impact and calculate a trajectory and spin rate of the object based on the one or more values, wherein the processor compares the one or more values determined during the club movement to a predetermined range of limits associated with the club movement and signals when any of the one or more determined values is not within the predetermined range, wherein the signal is biofeedback to a user in a form that differs between a successful club movement and an unsuccessful club movement, and whereby the successful club movement is determined when the one or more values determined during the club movement is within the predetermined range of limits associated with the club movement and the unsuccessful execution of the body motion is determined when the one or more values determined during the club movement is outside the predetermined range of limits associated with the club movement. 31. The method of claim 30, further comprising graphically displaying, via a display unit, the swing plane of the club and the vertical angle that the club head travels through at the time of impact with the object, and displaying, via the display unit, the calculated forces on the object and the trajectory and the spin rate of the object after the time of impact. | 2,400 |
349,368 | 16,806,950 | 2,483 | A control system for use with a working machine is provided, the working machine including a machine body, and a load handling apparatus coupled to the machine body and moveable by a movement actuator with respect to the machine body, the working machine being configured for use with at least one electric energy storage module. The control system includes a controller configured to: receive or acquire information representative of an attribute of said electric energy storage module; determine permitted and/or prohibited operations of the working machine based on the received or acquired information; and issue an operations signal for use by at least one element of the working machine corresponding to the determined permitted and/or prohibited operations. | 1. A control system for use with a working machine comprising a machine body, and a load handling apparatus coupled to the machine body and moveable by a movement actuator with respect to the machine body, the working machine being configured for use with at least one electric energy storage module, wherein the control system comprises a controller configured to:
receive or acquire information representative of an attribute of said electric energy storage module; determine permitted and/or prohibited operations of the working machine based on the received or acquired information; and issue an operations signal for use by at least one element of the working machine corresponding to the determined permitted and/or prohibited operations. 2. The control system in accordance with claim 1, wherein the at least one element comprises an element configured to control operations carried out by the working machine in accordance with the determined permitted and/or prohibited operations; wherein the at least one element comprises an element configured to display information corresponding to the determined permitted and/or prohibited operations to an operator. 3. The control system in accordance with claim 1, wherein the controller is configured to receive or acquire information representative of the weight and/or position of the at least one electric energy storage module; wherein the controller includes a machine stabilisation decision logic, configured to maintain stability of the working machine, wherein the information representative of the weight and/or position of the at least one electric energy storage module is an input to the stabilisation decision logic, and wherein the determined permitted and/or prohibited operations of the working machine are determined based on the stabilisation decision logic; wherein the controller is configured to receive a tilt signal representative of a moment of tilt of the machine, and wherein the controller is configured to issue an operations signal for use by an element of the machine, including the movement actuator, which in response to the operations signal issued by the controller, is configured to restrict or substantially prevent a movement of the load handling apparatus when a value of the tilt signal reaches a threshold value, the threshold value being dependent on the information representative of the weight and/or position of the at least one electric energy storage module. 4. The control system according to claim 3, wherein the controller is configured to receive an orientation signal representative of the orientation of the load handling apparatus with respect to a reference orientation, wherein the threshold value is dependent on the orientation signal. 5. The control system according to claim 4, wherein the threshold value includes a first threshold value associated with one or more predetermined orientations of the load handling apparatus and a second threshold value associated with one or more other predetermined orientations of the load handling apparatus. 6. The control system according to claim 5, wherein the threshold value is proportional or substantially proportional to the signal representative of an orientation of the load handling apparatus over a range of orientations of the load handling apparatus. 7. The control system according to claim 4, wherein the range of orientations of the load handling apparatus is between a first and a second orientation of the load handling apparatus, and at least one different threshold value is used when the position of the load handling apparatus is outside of the range. 8. The control system according to claim 3, wherein the signal representative of the moment of tilt of the machine is a signal representative of the load on an axle of the machine, e.g. a rear axle. 9. The control system according to claim 3, wherein the controller is further configured to receive a stabiliser signal representative of whether one or more stabilisers of the machine are deployed, and the threshold value is dependent on the stabiliser signal. 10. The control system according to claim 1, wherein the controller is further configured to receive a signal representative of a position of the load handling apparatus relative to the machine body. 11. The control system according to claim 10, wherein the controller is configured to issue a signal to set an interlock based on the position of the load handling apparatus relative to the machine body. 12. The control system according to claim 1, wherein the working machine is configured to be fitted with one or more ballast modules and wherein the controller is configured to receive or acquire information representative of an attribute of said ballast module (e.g. weight and/or position), when present. 13. The control system according to claim 1, wherein the controller is configured to receive or acquire information representative of the power capacity of the at least one electric energy storage module, and wherein the controller is configured to determine permitted and/or prohibited operations of the machine based on the information representative of the power capacity of the at least one electric energy storage module. 14. A working machine comprising a machine body, a ground engaging propulsion structure to permit movement of the machine over the ground, and a load handling apparatus coupled to the machine body and moveable by a movement actuator with respect to the machine body, the machine being configured for use with at least one electric energy storage module, wherein, in use, the at least one electric energy storage module is connected to the working machine to provide power to the working machine; wherein the working machine is configured to be connected to a range of electric energy storage modules, having different attributes, e.g. power capacity and/or weight attributes. 15. The working machine according to claim 14, wherein the working machine comprises a mount for at least a first electric energy storage module and a second electric energy storage module, the machine being operable with at least one of the first and second electric storage modules present. 16. The working machine according to claim 15, wherein the mount is configured to receive a ballast module, optionally wherein the ballast module comprises a connector to connect the ballast module to the working machine. 17. The working machine according to claim 14, wherein the at least one electric energy storage module is selected based on an intended use of the working machine. 18. The working machine according to claim 14 comprising a control system according to claim 1. 19. The working machine according to claim 14, wherein the machine further comprises an operator cab which has a fixed angular orientation with respect to front and/or rear axles of the working machine. 20. A method of providing power to a working machine comprising a machine body, a ground engaging propulsion structure to permit movement of the machine over the ground, and a load handling apparatus coupled to the machine body and moveable by a movement actuator with respect to the machine body, the machine being configured for use with at least one electric energy storage module, wherein, in use, the at least one electric energy storage module is connected to the working machine to provide power to the working machine, the method including:
determining a power requirement for the working machine, selecting at least one electric energy storage module to satisfy the determined power requirement, and connecting the at least one electric energy storage module to the working machine such that, in use, the at least one electric energy storage module is configured to provide power to the working machine. | A control system for use with a working machine is provided, the working machine including a machine body, and a load handling apparatus coupled to the machine body and moveable by a movement actuator with respect to the machine body, the working machine being configured for use with at least one electric energy storage module. The control system includes a controller configured to: receive or acquire information representative of an attribute of said electric energy storage module; determine permitted and/or prohibited operations of the working machine based on the received or acquired information; and issue an operations signal for use by at least one element of the working machine corresponding to the determined permitted and/or prohibited operations.1. A control system for use with a working machine comprising a machine body, and a load handling apparatus coupled to the machine body and moveable by a movement actuator with respect to the machine body, the working machine being configured for use with at least one electric energy storage module, wherein the control system comprises a controller configured to:
receive or acquire information representative of an attribute of said electric energy storage module; determine permitted and/or prohibited operations of the working machine based on the received or acquired information; and issue an operations signal for use by at least one element of the working machine corresponding to the determined permitted and/or prohibited operations. 2. The control system in accordance with claim 1, wherein the at least one element comprises an element configured to control operations carried out by the working machine in accordance with the determined permitted and/or prohibited operations; wherein the at least one element comprises an element configured to display information corresponding to the determined permitted and/or prohibited operations to an operator. 3. The control system in accordance with claim 1, wherein the controller is configured to receive or acquire information representative of the weight and/or position of the at least one electric energy storage module; wherein the controller includes a machine stabilisation decision logic, configured to maintain stability of the working machine, wherein the information representative of the weight and/or position of the at least one electric energy storage module is an input to the stabilisation decision logic, and wherein the determined permitted and/or prohibited operations of the working machine are determined based on the stabilisation decision logic; wherein the controller is configured to receive a tilt signal representative of a moment of tilt of the machine, and wherein the controller is configured to issue an operations signal for use by an element of the machine, including the movement actuator, which in response to the operations signal issued by the controller, is configured to restrict or substantially prevent a movement of the load handling apparatus when a value of the tilt signal reaches a threshold value, the threshold value being dependent on the information representative of the weight and/or position of the at least one electric energy storage module. 4. The control system according to claim 3, wherein the controller is configured to receive an orientation signal representative of the orientation of the load handling apparatus with respect to a reference orientation, wherein the threshold value is dependent on the orientation signal. 5. The control system according to claim 4, wherein the threshold value includes a first threshold value associated with one or more predetermined orientations of the load handling apparatus and a second threshold value associated with one or more other predetermined orientations of the load handling apparatus. 6. The control system according to claim 5, wherein the threshold value is proportional or substantially proportional to the signal representative of an orientation of the load handling apparatus over a range of orientations of the load handling apparatus. 7. The control system according to claim 4, wherein the range of orientations of the load handling apparatus is between a first and a second orientation of the load handling apparatus, and at least one different threshold value is used when the position of the load handling apparatus is outside of the range. 8. The control system according to claim 3, wherein the signal representative of the moment of tilt of the machine is a signal representative of the load on an axle of the machine, e.g. a rear axle. 9. The control system according to claim 3, wherein the controller is further configured to receive a stabiliser signal representative of whether one or more stabilisers of the machine are deployed, and the threshold value is dependent on the stabiliser signal. 10. The control system according to claim 1, wherein the controller is further configured to receive a signal representative of a position of the load handling apparatus relative to the machine body. 11. The control system according to claim 10, wherein the controller is configured to issue a signal to set an interlock based on the position of the load handling apparatus relative to the machine body. 12. The control system according to claim 1, wherein the working machine is configured to be fitted with one or more ballast modules and wherein the controller is configured to receive or acquire information representative of an attribute of said ballast module (e.g. weight and/or position), when present. 13. The control system according to claim 1, wherein the controller is configured to receive or acquire information representative of the power capacity of the at least one electric energy storage module, and wherein the controller is configured to determine permitted and/or prohibited operations of the machine based on the information representative of the power capacity of the at least one electric energy storage module. 14. A working machine comprising a machine body, a ground engaging propulsion structure to permit movement of the machine over the ground, and a load handling apparatus coupled to the machine body and moveable by a movement actuator with respect to the machine body, the machine being configured for use with at least one electric energy storage module, wherein, in use, the at least one electric energy storage module is connected to the working machine to provide power to the working machine; wherein the working machine is configured to be connected to a range of electric energy storage modules, having different attributes, e.g. power capacity and/or weight attributes. 15. The working machine according to claim 14, wherein the working machine comprises a mount for at least a first electric energy storage module and a second electric energy storage module, the machine being operable with at least one of the first and second electric storage modules present. 16. The working machine according to claim 15, wherein the mount is configured to receive a ballast module, optionally wherein the ballast module comprises a connector to connect the ballast module to the working machine. 17. The working machine according to claim 14, wherein the at least one electric energy storage module is selected based on an intended use of the working machine. 18. The working machine according to claim 14 comprising a control system according to claim 1. 19. The working machine according to claim 14, wherein the machine further comprises an operator cab which has a fixed angular orientation with respect to front and/or rear axles of the working machine. 20. A method of providing power to a working machine comprising a machine body, a ground engaging propulsion structure to permit movement of the machine over the ground, and a load handling apparatus coupled to the machine body and moveable by a movement actuator with respect to the machine body, the machine being configured for use with at least one electric energy storage module, wherein, in use, the at least one electric energy storage module is connected to the working machine to provide power to the working machine, the method including:
determining a power requirement for the working machine, selecting at least one electric energy storage module to satisfy the determined power requirement, and connecting the at least one electric energy storage module to the working machine such that, in use, the at least one electric energy storage module is configured to provide power to the working machine. | 2,400 |
349,369 | 16,806,928 | 2,483 | A neural network computation circuit includes in-area multiple-word line selection circuits that are provided in one-to-one correspondence to a plurality of word line areas into which a plurality of word lines included in a memory array are logically divided. Each of the in-area multiple-word line selection circuits sets one or more word lines in a selected state or a non-selected state, and includes a first latch and a second latch provided for each word line. | 1. A neural network computation circuit including semiconductor storage elements, the neural network computation circuit comprising:
a memory array that includes a plurality of memory cells arranged in rows and columns, each of the plurality of memory cells being connected to one of a plurality of word lines and one of a plurality of bit lines; a multiple-word line selection circuit that sets one or more word lines of the plurality of word lines in a selected state or a non-selected state; n determination circuits that perform computation operations of neurons of a neural network, n being an integer of 1 or more; a column selection circuit that connects one or more of the plurality of bit lines to each of the n determination circuits; and a control circuit that controls the multiple-word line selection circuit, wherein the plurality of word lines are logically divided into a plurality of word line areas, each of the plurality of word line areas including n word lines, the multiple-word line selection circuit includes a plurality of in-area multiple-word line selection circuits that are provided in one-to-one correspondence to the plurality of word line areas, each of the plurality of in-area multiple-word line selection circuits setting the n word lines included in a corresponding one of the plurality of word line areas in a selected state or a non-selected state, each of the plurality of in-area multiple-word line selection circuits includes a first latch and a second latch provided for each of the n word lines, determines a set state of the first latch and a set state of the second latch based on an area selection signal, an in-area word line control signal, a first latch control signal, a second latch control signal, and a word line selection signal that are controlled by the control circuit, and sets a corresponding one of the n word lines in a selected state or a non-selected state based on the set state of the first latch, and in a multiple-word line selected state selected by the multiple-word line selection circuit, the n determination circuits each perform a determining operation of outputting a first logical value or a second logical value as output data of the computation operations of the neurons of the neural network based on a voltage state of the one or more of the plurality of bit lines connected by the column selection circuit or a current state of electric current flowing through the one or more of the plurality of bit lines. 2. The neural network computation circuit according to claim 1,
wherein the control circuit performs the determining operation a plurality of times in the multiple-word line selected state, the control circuit sequentially performs an operation of determining, based on n results obtained in a single instance of the determining operation, set states of n second latches provided in one of the plurality of in-area multiple-word line selection circuits selected based on the area selection signal, while switching the area selection signal, the n second latches being the second latch provided for each of the n word lines, and after performing the determining operation the plurality of times, the control circuit transfers and sets the set states of the n second latches to and in first latches connected to the n second latches, the first latches being the first latch provided for each of the n word lines. 3. The neural network computation circuit according to claim 1,
wherein the multiple-word line selected state corresponds to input data of the neurons of the neural network. 4. The neural network computation circuit according to claim 1,
wherein each of the plurality of memory cells stores connection weighting factors of the neural network. 5. The neural network computation circuit according to claim 1,
wherein each of the plurality of memory cells is a resistance variable non-volatile memory element that is formed using a resistance variable element, and stores connection weighting factors of the neural network as resistance values. 6. A neural network computation circuit including semiconductor storage elements, the neural network computation circuit comprising:
a memory array that includes a plurality of memory cells arranged in rows and columns, each of the plurality of memory cells being connected to one of a plurality of word lines and one of a plurality of bit lines; a multiple-word line selection circuit that sets one or more word lines of the plurality of word lines in a selected state or a non-selected state; n determination circuits that perform computation operations of neurons of a neural network, n being an integer of 1 or more; one or more readout circuits that determine logic states of the plurality of memory cells; a column selection circuit that connects one or more of the plurality of bit lines to each of the n determination circuits or to the one or more readout circuits; and a control circuit that controls the multiple-word line selection circuit, wherein the plurality of word lines are logically divided into a plurality of word line areas, each of the plurality of word line areas including n word lines, the multiple-word line selection circuit includes a plurality of in-area multiple-word line selection circuits that are provided in one-to-one correspondence to the plurality of word line areas, each of the plurality of in-area multiple-word line selection circuits being capable of performing two operations: an operation in a neural network computation operation mode of setting the n word lines included in a corresponding one of the plurality of word line areas in a selected state or a non-selected state; and an operation in a memory operation mode of setting one word line included in the corresponding one of the plurality of word line areas in a selected state or a non-selected state by switching between the two operations, each of the plurality of in-area multiple-word line selection circuits includes a first latch, a second latch, and a switching circuit that is connected to an output of the first latch provided for each of the n word lines, with an area selection signal, an in-area word line control signal, a first latch control signal, a second latch control signal, a word line selection signal, and a mode switching signal that are controlled by the control circuit, when the mode switching signal is in a signal state that corresponds to the neural network computation operation mode, each of the plurality of in-area multiple-word line selection circuits determines a set state of the first latch and a set state of the second latch and sets the corresponding word line based on the set state of the first latch via the switching circuit in a selected state or a non-selected state, as the neural network computation operation mode, and when the mode switching signal is in a signal state that corresponds to the memory operation mode, each of the plurality of in-area multiple-word line selection circuits sets the corresponding word line based on the area selection signal, the in-area word line control signal, and the word line selection signal via the switching circuit in a selected state or a non-selected state, as the memory operation mode, during the neural network computation operation mode, in a multiple-word line selected state selected by the multiple-word line selection circuit, the n determination circuits each perform a determining operation of outputting a first logical value or a second logical value as output data of the computation operations of the neurons of the neural network based on a voltage state of the one or more of the plurality of bit lines connected by the column selection circuit or a current state of electric current flowing through the one or more of the plurality of bit lines, in the memory operation mode, in a state in which one word line is selected by the multiple-word line selection circuit, the one or more readout circuits performs a readout/determining operation of outputting a first logical value or a second logical value as memory data based on a voltage state of the one or more of the plurality of bit lines connected by the column selection circuit or a current state of electric current flowing through the one or more of the plurality of bit lines. 7. The neural network computation circuit according to claim 6,
wherein the control circuit performs the determining operation a plurality of times in the multiple-word line selected state, the control circuit sequentially performs an operation of determining, based on n results obtained in a single instance of the determining operation, set states of n second latches provided in one of the plurality of in-area multiple-word line selection circuits selected based on the area selection signal, while switching the area selection signal, the n second latches being the second latch provided for each of the n word lines, and after performing the determining operation the plurality of times, the control circuit transfers and sets the set states of the n second latches to and in first latches connected to the n second latches, the first latches being the first latch provided for each of the n word lines. 8. The neural network computation circuit according to claim 6,
wherein the multiple-word line selected state during the neural network computation operation mode corresponds to input data of the neurons of the neural network. 9. The neural network computation circuit according to claim 6,
wherein each of the plurality of memory cells stores connection weighting factors of the neural network or memory data. 10. The neural network computation circuit according to claim 6,
wherein each of the plurality of memory cells is a resistance variable non-volatile memory element that is formed using a resistance variable element, and stores connection weighting factors of the neural network as resistance values or stores memory data. | A neural network computation circuit includes in-area multiple-word line selection circuits that are provided in one-to-one correspondence to a plurality of word line areas into which a plurality of word lines included in a memory array are logically divided. Each of the in-area multiple-word line selection circuits sets one or more word lines in a selected state or a non-selected state, and includes a first latch and a second latch provided for each word line.1. A neural network computation circuit including semiconductor storage elements, the neural network computation circuit comprising:
a memory array that includes a plurality of memory cells arranged in rows and columns, each of the plurality of memory cells being connected to one of a plurality of word lines and one of a plurality of bit lines; a multiple-word line selection circuit that sets one or more word lines of the plurality of word lines in a selected state or a non-selected state; n determination circuits that perform computation operations of neurons of a neural network, n being an integer of 1 or more; a column selection circuit that connects one or more of the plurality of bit lines to each of the n determination circuits; and a control circuit that controls the multiple-word line selection circuit, wherein the plurality of word lines are logically divided into a plurality of word line areas, each of the plurality of word line areas including n word lines, the multiple-word line selection circuit includes a plurality of in-area multiple-word line selection circuits that are provided in one-to-one correspondence to the plurality of word line areas, each of the plurality of in-area multiple-word line selection circuits setting the n word lines included in a corresponding one of the plurality of word line areas in a selected state or a non-selected state, each of the plurality of in-area multiple-word line selection circuits includes a first latch and a second latch provided for each of the n word lines, determines a set state of the first latch and a set state of the second latch based on an area selection signal, an in-area word line control signal, a first latch control signal, a second latch control signal, and a word line selection signal that are controlled by the control circuit, and sets a corresponding one of the n word lines in a selected state or a non-selected state based on the set state of the first latch, and in a multiple-word line selected state selected by the multiple-word line selection circuit, the n determination circuits each perform a determining operation of outputting a first logical value or a second logical value as output data of the computation operations of the neurons of the neural network based on a voltage state of the one or more of the plurality of bit lines connected by the column selection circuit or a current state of electric current flowing through the one or more of the plurality of bit lines. 2. The neural network computation circuit according to claim 1,
wherein the control circuit performs the determining operation a plurality of times in the multiple-word line selected state, the control circuit sequentially performs an operation of determining, based on n results obtained in a single instance of the determining operation, set states of n second latches provided in one of the plurality of in-area multiple-word line selection circuits selected based on the area selection signal, while switching the area selection signal, the n second latches being the second latch provided for each of the n word lines, and after performing the determining operation the plurality of times, the control circuit transfers and sets the set states of the n second latches to and in first latches connected to the n second latches, the first latches being the first latch provided for each of the n word lines. 3. The neural network computation circuit according to claim 1,
wherein the multiple-word line selected state corresponds to input data of the neurons of the neural network. 4. The neural network computation circuit according to claim 1,
wherein each of the plurality of memory cells stores connection weighting factors of the neural network. 5. The neural network computation circuit according to claim 1,
wherein each of the plurality of memory cells is a resistance variable non-volatile memory element that is formed using a resistance variable element, and stores connection weighting factors of the neural network as resistance values. 6. A neural network computation circuit including semiconductor storage elements, the neural network computation circuit comprising:
a memory array that includes a plurality of memory cells arranged in rows and columns, each of the plurality of memory cells being connected to one of a plurality of word lines and one of a plurality of bit lines; a multiple-word line selection circuit that sets one or more word lines of the plurality of word lines in a selected state or a non-selected state; n determination circuits that perform computation operations of neurons of a neural network, n being an integer of 1 or more; one or more readout circuits that determine logic states of the plurality of memory cells; a column selection circuit that connects one or more of the plurality of bit lines to each of the n determination circuits or to the one or more readout circuits; and a control circuit that controls the multiple-word line selection circuit, wherein the plurality of word lines are logically divided into a plurality of word line areas, each of the plurality of word line areas including n word lines, the multiple-word line selection circuit includes a plurality of in-area multiple-word line selection circuits that are provided in one-to-one correspondence to the plurality of word line areas, each of the plurality of in-area multiple-word line selection circuits being capable of performing two operations: an operation in a neural network computation operation mode of setting the n word lines included in a corresponding one of the plurality of word line areas in a selected state or a non-selected state; and an operation in a memory operation mode of setting one word line included in the corresponding one of the plurality of word line areas in a selected state or a non-selected state by switching between the two operations, each of the plurality of in-area multiple-word line selection circuits includes a first latch, a second latch, and a switching circuit that is connected to an output of the first latch provided for each of the n word lines, with an area selection signal, an in-area word line control signal, a first latch control signal, a second latch control signal, a word line selection signal, and a mode switching signal that are controlled by the control circuit, when the mode switching signal is in a signal state that corresponds to the neural network computation operation mode, each of the plurality of in-area multiple-word line selection circuits determines a set state of the first latch and a set state of the second latch and sets the corresponding word line based on the set state of the first latch via the switching circuit in a selected state or a non-selected state, as the neural network computation operation mode, and when the mode switching signal is in a signal state that corresponds to the memory operation mode, each of the plurality of in-area multiple-word line selection circuits sets the corresponding word line based on the area selection signal, the in-area word line control signal, and the word line selection signal via the switching circuit in a selected state or a non-selected state, as the memory operation mode, during the neural network computation operation mode, in a multiple-word line selected state selected by the multiple-word line selection circuit, the n determination circuits each perform a determining operation of outputting a first logical value or a second logical value as output data of the computation operations of the neurons of the neural network based on a voltage state of the one or more of the plurality of bit lines connected by the column selection circuit or a current state of electric current flowing through the one or more of the plurality of bit lines, in the memory operation mode, in a state in which one word line is selected by the multiple-word line selection circuit, the one or more readout circuits performs a readout/determining operation of outputting a first logical value or a second logical value as memory data based on a voltage state of the one or more of the plurality of bit lines connected by the column selection circuit or a current state of electric current flowing through the one or more of the plurality of bit lines. 7. The neural network computation circuit according to claim 6,
wherein the control circuit performs the determining operation a plurality of times in the multiple-word line selected state, the control circuit sequentially performs an operation of determining, based on n results obtained in a single instance of the determining operation, set states of n second latches provided in one of the plurality of in-area multiple-word line selection circuits selected based on the area selection signal, while switching the area selection signal, the n second latches being the second latch provided for each of the n word lines, and after performing the determining operation the plurality of times, the control circuit transfers and sets the set states of the n second latches to and in first latches connected to the n second latches, the first latches being the first latch provided for each of the n word lines. 8. The neural network computation circuit according to claim 6,
wherein the multiple-word line selected state during the neural network computation operation mode corresponds to input data of the neurons of the neural network. 9. The neural network computation circuit according to claim 6,
wherein each of the plurality of memory cells stores connection weighting factors of the neural network or memory data. 10. The neural network computation circuit according to claim 6,
wherein each of the plurality of memory cells is a resistance variable non-volatile memory element that is formed using a resistance variable element, and stores connection weighting factors of the neural network as resistance values or stores memory data. | 2,400 |
349,370 | 16,806,961 | 2,483 | Provided is an apparatus for a mass production of microspheres and a multichannel forming device incorporatable therein. The apparatus includes a multi-channel microsphere forming unit, a first source material reservoir containing the first source material and in fluid communication with the plurality of first microchannels, a second source material reservoir containing the second source material and in fluid communication with the plurality of second microchannels, a flow control unit configured to supply a first gas to the first source material reservoir at a first source material flow rate and to supply a second gas to a second source material reservoir at a second source material flow rate and a product reservoir for accommodating the microspheres formed from the multi-channel forming unit. | 1. A multi-channel microsphere forming device for forming microspheres from a first source material and a second source material immiscible with the first source material, the device comprising:
an upper case including a first annular manifold formed on a side of the upper case, a second annular manifold radially inside of the first annular manifold on the side of the upper case, a first inlet line configured to deliver the first source material and the second inlet line configured to deliver the second source material to the second annular manifold, a second annular manifold formed on the side of the upper case radially inside of the first annular manifold; a lower case including a product exhausting hole formed at a center of the lower case; a lower multi-channel plate disposed on the lower case and including a plurality of first microchannels radially arranged and formed on a side of the lower multi-channel plate, a plurality of second microchannels radially arranged and formed on a side of the lower multi-channel plate, a plurality of third microchannels radially arranged and formed on a side of the lower multi-channel plate, and a center through-hole formed at a center of the lower multi-channel plate, wherein the plurality of first microchannels and the plurality of second microchannels are merged at a plurality of first merging points and the plurality of third microchannels are arranged in direction to center through-hole from the plurality of first merging points; and an upper multi-channel plate disposed between the upper case and the lower multi-channel plate, including a plurality of first channel connection holes disposed between the plurality of first microchannels and the first annular manifold, and a plurality of second channel connection holes disposed between the first annular manifold and the plurality of second microchannels. 2. The device of claim 1, further comprising a plurality of O-rings disposed between the upper case and the upper multi-channel plate, wherein the plurality of O-rings include at least one first O-ring disposed radially inwardly or outwardly adjacent to the first annular manifold and at least one second O-ring disposed radially inwardly or outwardly adjacent to the second annular manifold. 3. The device of claim 1, wherein the first annular manifold and the second annular manifold are annular recess structures formed on the side of the upper case, and wherein the first annular manifold and the second annular manifold has larger volumes than the plurality of first microchannels, the plurality of second microchannels and the plurality of third microchannels to uniformly and consistently distribute the first source material or the second source material to the plurality of first microchannels or the plurality of second microchannels and second microchannels, wherein the first inlet line and the second inlet line are respectively in fluid communication with the first annular manifold and the second annular manifold through the upper case from another side of the upper case, wherein the plurality of first channel connection holes are arranged along a first circle having a first diameter, and the plurality of second channel connection holes are arranged along a second circle having a second diameter smaller than the first diameter, and wherein the plurality of first channel connection holes and the plurality of second channel connection holes are arranged coaxially. 4. The device of claim 1, wherein the plurality of first microchannels and the plurality of second microchannels are arranged radially, and wherein a plurality of flow paths extending from the plurality of first channel connection holes via the plurality of first microchannels and the plurality of third microchannels to the center through-hole and a plurality of flow paths extending from the plurality of second channel connection holes via the plurality of second microchannels and the plurality of third microchannels to the center through-hole have the substantially same flow length. 5. The device of claim 1, further comprising a product exhausting port attached to the lower case and in fluid communication with the product exhausting hole, wherein the product exhausting port includes a coupling body and a product exhausting pipe fixed to the coupling body and fluidly connected to the product exhausting hole of the lower case. 6. The device of claim 1, wherein the lower case further includes a plate seating groove formed on a side of the upper case, and the upper multi-channel plate and the lower multi-channel plate are disposed in the plate seating groove, and wherein the upper multi-channel plate further comprises an upper plate alignment portion, the lower multi-channel plate further comprises a lower plate alignment portion, and the plate seating grove further comprises case alignment portion to which the upper plate alignment portion and the second plate alignment portion are fitted. 7. The device of claim 1, wherein the upper case further comprises a third annular manifold formed radially inward of the second annular manifold and a third inlet line delivering a third source material to the third annular manifold, wherein the lower multi-channel plate further comprises a plurality of fourth microchannels merging with the plurality of third microchannels at a plurality of second merging points and a plurality of fifth microchannels extending from the plurality of second merging points to the center through-hole, and wherein the upper multi-channel plate further comprises a plurality of third channel connection holes disposed between the plurality of fourth microchannels and the third annular manifold. 8. The device of claim 1, further comprising a vision monitoring unit mounted on the upper case, the upper case further comprises a monitoring opening formed at the center of the upper case, and the vision monitoring unit includes a camera imaging the microspheres formed in the third microchannels through the monitoring opening, wherein the upper multi-channel plate is made of a glass wafer, and the lower multi-channel plate is made of a silicon wafer. 9. The device of claim 1, wherein the width or height of the plurality of third microchannels has a difference of less than 30% from the diameter of the formed microspheres. 10. An apparatus for a mass production of microspheres comprising:
the multi-channel microsphere forming device of claim 1; a first source material reservoir containing the first source material; a second source material reservoir containing the second source material; and a product reservoir for accommodating the microspheres formed in the multi-channel microsphere production device. | Provided is an apparatus for a mass production of microspheres and a multichannel forming device incorporatable therein. The apparatus includes a multi-channel microsphere forming unit, a first source material reservoir containing the first source material and in fluid communication with the plurality of first microchannels, a second source material reservoir containing the second source material and in fluid communication with the plurality of second microchannels, a flow control unit configured to supply a first gas to the first source material reservoir at a first source material flow rate and to supply a second gas to a second source material reservoir at a second source material flow rate and a product reservoir for accommodating the microspheres formed from the multi-channel forming unit.1. A multi-channel microsphere forming device for forming microspheres from a first source material and a second source material immiscible with the first source material, the device comprising:
an upper case including a first annular manifold formed on a side of the upper case, a second annular manifold radially inside of the first annular manifold on the side of the upper case, a first inlet line configured to deliver the first source material and the second inlet line configured to deliver the second source material to the second annular manifold, a second annular manifold formed on the side of the upper case radially inside of the first annular manifold; a lower case including a product exhausting hole formed at a center of the lower case; a lower multi-channel plate disposed on the lower case and including a plurality of first microchannels radially arranged and formed on a side of the lower multi-channel plate, a plurality of second microchannels radially arranged and formed on a side of the lower multi-channel plate, a plurality of third microchannels radially arranged and formed on a side of the lower multi-channel plate, and a center through-hole formed at a center of the lower multi-channel plate, wherein the plurality of first microchannels and the plurality of second microchannels are merged at a plurality of first merging points and the plurality of third microchannels are arranged in direction to center through-hole from the plurality of first merging points; and an upper multi-channel plate disposed between the upper case and the lower multi-channel plate, including a plurality of first channel connection holes disposed between the plurality of first microchannels and the first annular manifold, and a plurality of second channel connection holes disposed between the first annular manifold and the plurality of second microchannels. 2. The device of claim 1, further comprising a plurality of O-rings disposed between the upper case and the upper multi-channel plate, wherein the plurality of O-rings include at least one first O-ring disposed radially inwardly or outwardly adjacent to the first annular manifold and at least one second O-ring disposed radially inwardly or outwardly adjacent to the second annular manifold. 3. The device of claim 1, wherein the first annular manifold and the second annular manifold are annular recess structures formed on the side of the upper case, and wherein the first annular manifold and the second annular manifold has larger volumes than the plurality of first microchannels, the plurality of second microchannels and the plurality of third microchannels to uniformly and consistently distribute the first source material or the second source material to the plurality of first microchannels or the plurality of second microchannels and second microchannels, wherein the first inlet line and the second inlet line are respectively in fluid communication with the first annular manifold and the second annular manifold through the upper case from another side of the upper case, wherein the plurality of first channel connection holes are arranged along a first circle having a first diameter, and the plurality of second channel connection holes are arranged along a second circle having a second diameter smaller than the first diameter, and wherein the plurality of first channel connection holes and the plurality of second channel connection holes are arranged coaxially. 4. The device of claim 1, wherein the plurality of first microchannels and the plurality of second microchannels are arranged radially, and wherein a plurality of flow paths extending from the plurality of first channel connection holes via the plurality of first microchannels and the plurality of third microchannels to the center through-hole and a plurality of flow paths extending from the plurality of second channel connection holes via the plurality of second microchannels and the plurality of third microchannels to the center through-hole have the substantially same flow length. 5. The device of claim 1, further comprising a product exhausting port attached to the lower case and in fluid communication with the product exhausting hole, wherein the product exhausting port includes a coupling body and a product exhausting pipe fixed to the coupling body and fluidly connected to the product exhausting hole of the lower case. 6. The device of claim 1, wherein the lower case further includes a plate seating groove formed on a side of the upper case, and the upper multi-channel plate and the lower multi-channel plate are disposed in the plate seating groove, and wherein the upper multi-channel plate further comprises an upper plate alignment portion, the lower multi-channel plate further comprises a lower plate alignment portion, and the plate seating grove further comprises case alignment portion to which the upper plate alignment portion and the second plate alignment portion are fitted. 7. The device of claim 1, wherein the upper case further comprises a third annular manifold formed radially inward of the second annular manifold and a third inlet line delivering a third source material to the third annular manifold, wherein the lower multi-channel plate further comprises a plurality of fourth microchannels merging with the plurality of third microchannels at a plurality of second merging points and a plurality of fifth microchannels extending from the plurality of second merging points to the center through-hole, and wherein the upper multi-channel plate further comprises a plurality of third channel connection holes disposed between the plurality of fourth microchannels and the third annular manifold. 8. The device of claim 1, further comprising a vision monitoring unit mounted on the upper case, the upper case further comprises a monitoring opening formed at the center of the upper case, and the vision monitoring unit includes a camera imaging the microspheres formed in the third microchannels through the monitoring opening, wherein the upper multi-channel plate is made of a glass wafer, and the lower multi-channel plate is made of a silicon wafer. 9. The device of claim 1, wherein the width or height of the plurality of third microchannels has a difference of less than 30% from the diameter of the formed microspheres. 10. An apparatus for a mass production of microspheres comprising:
the multi-channel microsphere forming device of claim 1; a first source material reservoir containing the first source material; a second source material reservoir containing the second source material; and a product reservoir for accommodating the microspheres formed in the multi-channel microsphere production device. | 2,400 |
349,371 | 16,806,954 | 2,483 | A nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) system is configured to detect chemical threat material. The system comprises a magnet configured to generate a magnetic field of about 300 millitesla or less; and a probe configured to detect nuclear relaxation of at least two nuclei selected from the group consisting of 1H, 19F, 31P and 14N, and detect the spin density of nuclei selected from the group consisting of 1H, 19F, 31P and 14N, following excitation. | 1. A nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) system configured to detect chemical threat material, comprising:
a magnet configured to generate a magnetic field of about 300 millitesla or less; and a probe configured to:
detect nuclear relaxation of at least two nuclei selected from the group consisting of 1H, 19F, 31P and 14N, and
detect the spin density of nuclei selected from the group consisting of 1H, 19F, 31P and 14N, following excitation 2. The NMR system of claim 1, wherein:
the probe defines a hollow space capable of receiving a sample; and the probe comprises an electrical shield configured to reduce electrical field inside the hollow space. 3. The NMR system of claim 2, wherein the probe further comprises a detection coil for detecting the nuclear relaxations. 4. The NMR system of claim 3, wherein the electrical shield is configured to reduce an electrical field generated by the detection coil. 5. The NMR system of claim 2, wherein the probe comprises:
a first coil configured to detect relaxations of at least two nuclei selected from the group consisting of 1H, 19F, 31P and 14N; and a second coil configure to detect relaxations of a nucleus selected from the group. 6. The NMR system of claim 5, wherein the at least two nuclei are H-1 and F-19. 7. The NMR system of claim 5, wherein the first coil does not require retuning between the detections of the at least two nuclei. 8. The NMR system of claim 1 wherein the chemical threat materials are selected from the group consisting of nerve agents, pesticides, insecticides, and organophosphorus compounds. 9. The NMR system of claim 1, wherein the magnetic field is about 100 millitesla or less. 10. The NMR system of claim 1, further comprising:
a sample receiver configured to receive a container having a width of about 5.4 cm or less. 11. The NMR system of claim 1 wherein the magnet includes a shim to increase magnetic field homogeneity. 12. The NMR system of claim 1 wherein a J-coupling of a heteronuclear bond such as P—F bond is detectable as a multiplet signal split. 13. The NMR system of claim 11 wherein the multiplet signature identifies the chemical threat material as G-Agent. 14. The NMR system of claim 1, wherein the magnet is a permanent magnet. 15. The NMR system of claim 1, wherein the magnet is an electromagnet or a superconducting magnet. 16. The NMR system of claim 1, wherein the NMR system is portable. 17. The NMR system of claim 15, wherein the NMR system has a volume less than four cubic feet. 18. The NMR system of claim 15, wherein the NMR system has a weight less than 150 lbs 19. A method for deriving a pseudo-empirical formula for a molecule based on data from a nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) system. | A nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) system is configured to detect chemical threat material. The system comprises a magnet configured to generate a magnetic field of about 300 millitesla or less; and a probe configured to detect nuclear relaxation of at least two nuclei selected from the group consisting of 1H, 19F, 31P and 14N, and detect the spin density of nuclei selected from the group consisting of 1H, 19F, 31P and 14N, following excitation.1. A nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) system configured to detect chemical threat material, comprising:
a magnet configured to generate a magnetic field of about 300 millitesla or less; and a probe configured to:
detect nuclear relaxation of at least two nuclei selected from the group consisting of 1H, 19F, 31P and 14N, and
detect the spin density of nuclei selected from the group consisting of 1H, 19F, 31P and 14N, following excitation 2. The NMR system of claim 1, wherein:
the probe defines a hollow space capable of receiving a sample; and the probe comprises an electrical shield configured to reduce electrical field inside the hollow space. 3. The NMR system of claim 2, wherein the probe further comprises a detection coil for detecting the nuclear relaxations. 4. The NMR system of claim 3, wherein the electrical shield is configured to reduce an electrical field generated by the detection coil. 5. The NMR system of claim 2, wherein the probe comprises:
a first coil configured to detect relaxations of at least two nuclei selected from the group consisting of 1H, 19F, 31P and 14N; and a second coil configure to detect relaxations of a nucleus selected from the group. 6. The NMR system of claim 5, wherein the at least two nuclei are H-1 and F-19. 7. The NMR system of claim 5, wherein the first coil does not require retuning between the detections of the at least two nuclei. 8. The NMR system of claim 1 wherein the chemical threat materials are selected from the group consisting of nerve agents, pesticides, insecticides, and organophosphorus compounds. 9. The NMR system of claim 1, wherein the magnetic field is about 100 millitesla or less. 10. The NMR system of claim 1, further comprising:
a sample receiver configured to receive a container having a width of about 5.4 cm or less. 11. The NMR system of claim 1 wherein the magnet includes a shim to increase magnetic field homogeneity. 12. The NMR system of claim 1 wherein a J-coupling of a heteronuclear bond such as P—F bond is detectable as a multiplet signal split. 13. The NMR system of claim 11 wherein the multiplet signature identifies the chemical threat material as G-Agent. 14. The NMR system of claim 1, wherein the magnet is a permanent magnet. 15. The NMR system of claim 1, wherein the magnet is an electromagnet or a superconducting magnet. 16. The NMR system of claim 1, wherein the NMR system is portable. 17. The NMR system of claim 15, wherein the NMR system has a volume less than four cubic feet. 18. The NMR system of claim 15, wherein the NMR system has a weight less than 150 lbs 19. A method for deriving a pseudo-empirical formula for a molecule based on data from a nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) system. | 2,400 |
349,372 | 16,806,980 | 2,895 | An analog element for use as a neuron in a recurrent neural network is described, the analog element having memory of a prior layer state and being a continuous time circuit rather than having a discrete clocking interval. The element is characterized and described by the Laplace s-domain operator, as distinct from a digital solution that uses the z-domain operator appropriate for quantized time descriptions. Rather than using an all-pass filter, the analog equivalent of a unit delay in the z-domain, a finite gain integrator, which is a simpler circuit, may be used to provide the delay in the analog s-domain. The resulting circuit may be easily implemented at the transistor level. | 1. A circuit for use as a neuron in a neural network, comprising:
a plurality of resistors configured to receive a threshold signal and elements of an input signal; a buffer configured to receive a sum of the elements of the input signal as weighted by the plurality of resistors and produce the weighted sum as an output; an all-pass filter configured to receive the output of the buffer and to produce a delayed copy of the output of the buffer. 2. A circuit for use as a neuron in a neural network, comprising:
a plurality of resistors configured to receive a threshold signal and elements of an input signal; a buffer configured to receive a sum of the elements of the input signal as weighted by the plurality of resistors and produce the weighted sum as an output; a finite gain integrator configured to receive the output of the buffer and to produce a delayed copy of the output of the buffer. 3. The circuit of claim 2, wherein the finite gain integrator further comprises:
a resistor having first and second ends, a first end connected to the output of the buffer; a capacitor having first and second ends, a first end of the capacitor connected to the second end of the resistor; and an inverter having an input end and an output end, the input end of the inverter connected to the second end of the resistor and the first end of the capacitor, and the output end of the inverter connected to the second end of the capacitor. 4. A method of operating an analog element as a neuron in a recurrent neural network, the analog element being a continuous time circuit rather than having a discrete clocking interval, comprising:
receiving in the analog element a plurality of weighted input signals; summing the weighted input signals; and passing the sum of the weighted input signals through an analog delay element to produce a delayed sum. 5. The method of claim 4, further comprising:
passing the delayed sum back to the analog element as an additional input signal. 6. The method of claim 4 wherein the analog delay element is an all-pass filter. 7. The method of claim 4 wherein the analog delay element is a finite gain integrator. 8. A circuit configured as a neuron in a neural network, comprising:
a plurality of resistors configured to receive a threshold signal and elements of an input signal and providing an overall weighted input signal; a current source having a first end connected to a ground and a second end; a plurality of transistors, each transistor having a gate, a source and a drain;
a first one of the plurality of transistors having its source connected to the power supply and its gate and drain connected to the second end of the current source;
a second one of the plurality of transistors having its source connected to the power supply and its gate connected to the gate of the first transistor;
a third one of the plurality of transistors having its gate connected to the plurality of resistors and its drain connected to the drain of the second transistor;
a fourth one of the plurality of transistors having its gate connected to the source of the third transistor and its source connected to the drain of the second transistor;
a fifth one of the plurality of transistors having its drain connected to the source of the third transistor and its source connected to the ground;
a sixth one of the plurality of transistors having its gate and its drain connected to the ground, and its source connected to the drain of the fourth transistor;
a capacitor having a first end and a second end, the first end connected to the drain of the fourth transistor, the gate of the fifth transistor, and the source of the sixth transistor; a resistor having a first end and a second end, the first end connected to the drain of the third transistor and the source of the fourth transistor, and the second end connected to a common voltage; and an output port connected to the source of the fourth transistor and providing as an output a copy of the overall weighted input signal. 9. The circuit of claim 8 wherein the first, second, fourth and sixth transistors are p-type metal oxide semiconductor transistors, and the third and fifth transistors are n-type metal oxide semiconductor transistors. | An analog element for use as a neuron in a recurrent neural network is described, the analog element having memory of a prior layer state and being a continuous time circuit rather than having a discrete clocking interval. The element is characterized and described by the Laplace s-domain operator, as distinct from a digital solution that uses the z-domain operator appropriate for quantized time descriptions. Rather than using an all-pass filter, the analog equivalent of a unit delay in the z-domain, a finite gain integrator, which is a simpler circuit, may be used to provide the delay in the analog s-domain. The resulting circuit may be easily implemented at the transistor level.1. A circuit for use as a neuron in a neural network, comprising:
a plurality of resistors configured to receive a threshold signal and elements of an input signal; a buffer configured to receive a sum of the elements of the input signal as weighted by the plurality of resistors and produce the weighted sum as an output; an all-pass filter configured to receive the output of the buffer and to produce a delayed copy of the output of the buffer. 2. A circuit for use as a neuron in a neural network, comprising:
a plurality of resistors configured to receive a threshold signal and elements of an input signal; a buffer configured to receive a sum of the elements of the input signal as weighted by the plurality of resistors and produce the weighted sum as an output; a finite gain integrator configured to receive the output of the buffer and to produce a delayed copy of the output of the buffer. 3. The circuit of claim 2, wherein the finite gain integrator further comprises:
a resistor having first and second ends, a first end connected to the output of the buffer; a capacitor having first and second ends, a first end of the capacitor connected to the second end of the resistor; and an inverter having an input end and an output end, the input end of the inverter connected to the second end of the resistor and the first end of the capacitor, and the output end of the inverter connected to the second end of the capacitor. 4. A method of operating an analog element as a neuron in a recurrent neural network, the analog element being a continuous time circuit rather than having a discrete clocking interval, comprising:
receiving in the analog element a plurality of weighted input signals; summing the weighted input signals; and passing the sum of the weighted input signals through an analog delay element to produce a delayed sum. 5. The method of claim 4, further comprising:
passing the delayed sum back to the analog element as an additional input signal. 6. The method of claim 4 wherein the analog delay element is an all-pass filter. 7. The method of claim 4 wherein the analog delay element is a finite gain integrator. 8. A circuit configured as a neuron in a neural network, comprising:
a plurality of resistors configured to receive a threshold signal and elements of an input signal and providing an overall weighted input signal; a current source having a first end connected to a ground and a second end; a plurality of transistors, each transistor having a gate, a source and a drain;
a first one of the plurality of transistors having its source connected to the power supply and its gate and drain connected to the second end of the current source;
a second one of the plurality of transistors having its source connected to the power supply and its gate connected to the gate of the first transistor;
a third one of the plurality of transistors having its gate connected to the plurality of resistors and its drain connected to the drain of the second transistor;
a fourth one of the plurality of transistors having its gate connected to the source of the third transistor and its source connected to the drain of the second transistor;
a fifth one of the plurality of transistors having its drain connected to the source of the third transistor and its source connected to the ground;
a sixth one of the plurality of transistors having its gate and its drain connected to the ground, and its source connected to the drain of the fourth transistor;
a capacitor having a first end and a second end, the first end connected to the drain of the fourth transistor, the gate of the fifth transistor, and the source of the sixth transistor; a resistor having a first end and a second end, the first end connected to the drain of the third transistor and the source of the fourth transistor, and the second end connected to a common voltage; and an output port connected to the source of the fourth transistor and providing as an output a copy of the overall weighted input signal. 9. The circuit of claim 8 wherein the first, second, fourth and sixth transistors are p-type metal oxide semiconductor transistors, and the third and fifth transistors are n-type metal oxide semiconductor transistors. | 2,800 |
349,373 | 16,806,976 | 2,895 | A catheter adapted for mapping and/or ablation in the atria has a basket-shaped electrode array with two or more location sensors with a deflectable expander. The catheter comprises a catheter body, a basket electrode assembly at a distal end of the catheter body, and a control handle at a proximal end of the catheter body. The basket electrode assembly has a plurality of electrode-carrying spines and an expander that is adapted for longitudinal movement relative to the catheter body for expanding and collapsing the assembly via a proximal end portion extending past the control handle that can be pushed or pulled by a user. The expander is also adapted for deflection in responsive to an actuator on the control handle that allows a user to control at least one puller wire extending through the catheter body and the expander. | 1. A catheter comprising:
an elongated catheter body having proximal and distal ends and at least one lumen therethrough; an electrode assembly at the distal end of the catheter body, the electrode assembly comprising a generally hollow cylindrical body having proximal and distal ends, the generally hollow cylindrical body comprising:
a proximal stem portion at the proximal end of the generally hollow cylindrical body, the proximal stem portion being attached to the proximal end of the catheter body, and
a distal basket portion comprising a plurality of spine supports extending from the proximal stem portion to the distal end of the generally hollow cylindrical body, the plurality of spine supports being formed by removing a plurality of elongated strips from the distal basket portion of the generally hollow cylindrical body, one or more of the plurality of spine supports comprising one or more electrodes;
an expander having proximal and distal ends, the expander defining a longitudinal axis of the electrode assembly, the distal end of the expander being located proximal of the distal end of the electrode assembly, each of the plurality of spine supports having a bowed proximal region extending from the proximal stem portion of the generally hollow cylindrical body and a generally straight distal region terminating in a distal end of the spine support at the distal end of the generally hollow cylindrical body, the generally straight distal region of each spine support being generally coaxial with the expander, and each of the plurality of spine supports being attached at their distal ends to the distal end of the expander; at least one puller wire that extends through the expander, the puller wire having a distal end anchored in the expander; a control handle proximal of the catheter body, the control handle having an actuator adapted to move the at least one puller wire, the electrode assembly having an expanded arrangement when the expander is moved proximally along the longitudinal axis relative to the catheter body and the electrode assembly has a collapsed arrangement when the expander is moved distally along the longitudinal axis relative to the catheter body, and the expander being configured to deflect in at least one direction when the at least one puller wire is moved by the actuator. 2. The catheter of claim 1, further comprising at least one location sensor. 3. The catheter of claim 2, wherein the at least one location sensor comprises at least one proximal location sensor and at least one distal location sensor. 4. The catheter of claim 1, wherein the at least one location sensor comprises at least one bend sensor. 5. The catheter of claim 4, wherein the at least one bend sensor is configured to generate signals responsive to a bend radius of the plurality of spine supports. 6. The catheter of claim 5, wherein the at least one bend sensor comprises at least one piezoelectric sensor configured to general electrical signals proportional to a force or torque exerted thereon when the catheter bends. 7. The catheter of claim 5, wherein the at least one bend sensor comprises at least strain sensor or at least one fiber optic sensor configured to determine a bend radius by measuring a loss and/or a back-reflection of light in an optical fiber. 8. The catheter of claim 1, further comprising a proximal junction at the distal end of the catheter body, the proximal junction comprising:
a proximal junction tubing having a proximal end and a distal end, the proximal end being mounted over the distal end of the catheter body; a proximal junction ring inside the distal end of the proximal junction tubing, the proximal junction ring having a through-hole; and a proximal junction tunnel member in the through-hole of the proximal junction ring, wherein the proximal junction tunnel member has a lumen through which the expander extends and has longitudinal movement. 9. The catheter of claim 8, wherein the proximal stem portion of the generally hollow cylindrical body is mounted in the proximal junction between the proximal junction ring and the proximal junction tunnel member. 10. The catheter of claim 8, further comprising a distal junction at the distal end of the expander, the distal junction comprising:
a distal junction outer tubing having a lumen; a puller wire anchor in the lumen of the distal junction outer tubing; and a distal junction ring in the lumen of the distal junction outer tubing, wherein the distal ends of the spine supports are anchored between the distal junction ring and the puller wire anchor. 11. The catheter of claim 10, further comprising at least one proximal location sensor in the proximal junction and at least one distal location sensor in the distal junction. 12. A catheter comprising:
an elongated catheter body having proximal and distal ends and at least one lumen therethrough, the catheter body defining a longitudinal axis; an electrode assembly at the distal end of the catheter body, the electrode assembly having proximal and distal ends and comprising a plurality of spines, at least one of the spines carrying one or more electrodes; an expander having proximal and distal ends, the expander defining a longitudinal axis of the electrode assembly, the distal end of the expander being located proximal of the distal end of the electrode assembly, each of the plurality of spines having a bowed proximal region extending from a proximal end of the spine and a generally straight distal region terminating in a distal end of the spine, the generally straight distal region of each spine being generally coaxial with the expander, and each of the plurality of spines being attached at their proximal ends to the catheter body and at their distal ends to the distal end of the expander; at least one bend sensor configured to generate signals responsive to a bend radius of the plurality of spines; at least one puller wire that extends through the expander, the puller wire having a distal end anchored in the expander; and a control handle proximal of the catheter body, the control handle having an actuator adapted to move the at least one puller wire, wherein the expander is configured for longitudinal movement relative to the catheter body and for deflection relative to the longitudinal axis. 13. The catheter of claim 12, wherein the electrode assembly is adapted to assume an expanded configuration in response to longitudinal movement of the expander relative to the catheter body, and to assume an asymmetrical configuration in response to deflection of the expander relative to the longitudinal axis of the catheter body. 14. The catheter of claim 12, wherein the bowed region of each of the plurality of spines has a degree of curvature that changes similarly in response to longitudinal movement of the expander relative to the catheter body, and that changes differently in response to deflection of the expander relative to the longitudinal axis of the catheter body. 15. The catheter of claim 12, wherein the at least one bend sensor comprises at least one piezoelectric sensor configured to general electrical signals proportional to a force or torque exerted thereon when the catheter bends. 16. The catheter of claim 12, wherein the at least one bend sensor comprises at least strain sensor or at least one fiber optic sensor configured to determine a bend radius by measuring a loss and/or a back-reflection of light in an optical fiber. 17. The catheter of claim 12, further comprising a proximal junction at the distal end of the catheter body, the proximal junction comprising:
a proximal junction tubing having a proximal end and a distal end, the proximal end being mounted over the distal end of the catheter body; a proximal junction ring inside the distal end of the proximal junction tubing, the proximal junction ring having a through-hole; and a proximal junction tunnel member in the through-hole of the proximal junction ring, wherein the proximal junction tunnel member has a lumen through which the expander extends and has longitudinal movement. 18. The catheter of claim 17, wherein the proximal ends of the spines are mounted in the proximal junction between the proximal junction ring and the proximal junction tunnel member. 19. The catheter of claim 17, further comprising a distal junction at the distal end of the expander, the distal junction comprising:
a distal junction outer tubing having a lumen; a puller wire anchor in the lumen of the distal junction outer tubing; and a distal junction ring in the lumen of the distal junction outer tubing, wherein the distal ends of the spines are anchored between the distal junction ring and the puller wire anchor. 20. The catheter of claim 19, wherein the at least one bend sensor comprises at least one proximal bend sensor in the proximal junction, and at least one distal bend sensor in the distal junction. | A catheter adapted for mapping and/or ablation in the atria has a basket-shaped electrode array with two or more location sensors with a deflectable expander. The catheter comprises a catheter body, a basket electrode assembly at a distal end of the catheter body, and a control handle at a proximal end of the catheter body. The basket electrode assembly has a plurality of electrode-carrying spines and an expander that is adapted for longitudinal movement relative to the catheter body for expanding and collapsing the assembly via a proximal end portion extending past the control handle that can be pushed or pulled by a user. The expander is also adapted for deflection in responsive to an actuator on the control handle that allows a user to control at least one puller wire extending through the catheter body and the expander.1. A catheter comprising:
an elongated catheter body having proximal and distal ends and at least one lumen therethrough; an electrode assembly at the distal end of the catheter body, the electrode assembly comprising a generally hollow cylindrical body having proximal and distal ends, the generally hollow cylindrical body comprising:
a proximal stem portion at the proximal end of the generally hollow cylindrical body, the proximal stem portion being attached to the proximal end of the catheter body, and
a distal basket portion comprising a plurality of spine supports extending from the proximal stem portion to the distal end of the generally hollow cylindrical body, the plurality of spine supports being formed by removing a plurality of elongated strips from the distal basket portion of the generally hollow cylindrical body, one or more of the plurality of spine supports comprising one or more electrodes;
an expander having proximal and distal ends, the expander defining a longitudinal axis of the electrode assembly, the distal end of the expander being located proximal of the distal end of the electrode assembly, each of the plurality of spine supports having a bowed proximal region extending from the proximal stem portion of the generally hollow cylindrical body and a generally straight distal region terminating in a distal end of the spine support at the distal end of the generally hollow cylindrical body, the generally straight distal region of each spine support being generally coaxial with the expander, and each of the plurality of spine supports being attached at their distal ends to the distal end of the expander; at least one puller wire that extends through the expander, the puller wire having a distal end anchored in the expander; a control handle proximal of the catheter body, the control handle having an actuator adapted to move the at least one puller wire, the electrode assembly having an expanded arrangement when the expander is moved proximally along the longitudinal axis relative to the catheter body and the electrode assembly has a collapsed arrangement when the expander is moved distally along the longitudinal axis relative to the catheter body, and the expander being configured to deflect in at least one direction when the at least one puller wire is moved by the actuator. 2. The catheter of claim 1, further comprising at least one location sensor. 3. The catheter of claim 2, wherein the at least one location sensor comprises at least one proximal location sensor and at least one distal location sensor. 4. The catheter of claim 1, wherein the at least one location sensor comprises at least one bend sensor. 5. The catheter of claim 4, wherein the at least one bend sensor is configured to generate signals responsive to a bend radius of the plurality of spine supports. 6. The catheter of claim 5, wherein the at least one bend sensor comprises at least one piezoelectric sensor configured to general electrical signals proportional to a force or torque exerted thereon when the catheter bends. 7. The catheter of claim 5, wherein the at least one bend sensor comprises at least strain sensor or at least one fiber optic sensor configured to determine a bend radius by measuring a loss and/or a back-reflection of light in an optical fiber. 8. The catheter of claim 1, further comprising a proximal junction at the distal end of the catheter body, the proximal junction comprising:
a proximal junction tubing having a proximal end and a distal end, the proximal end being mounted over the distal end of the catheter body; a proximal junction ring inside the distal end of the proximal junction tubing, the proximal junction ring having a through-hole; and a proximal junction tunnel member in the through-hole of the proximal junction ring, wherein the proximal junction tunnel member has a lumen through which the expander extends and has longitudinal movement. 9. The catheter of claim 8, wherein the proximal stem portion of the generally hollow cylindrical body is mounted in the proximal junction between the proximal junction ring and the proximal junction tunnel member. 10. The catheter of claim 8, further comprising a distal junction at the distal end of the expander, the distal junction comprising:
a distal junction outer tubing having a lumen; a puller wire anchor in the lumen of the distal junction outer tubing; and a distal junction ring in the lumen of the distal junction outer tubing, wherein the distal ends of the spine supports are anchored between the distal junction ring and the puller wire anchor. 11. The catheter of claim 10, further comprising at least one proximal location sensor in the proximal junction and at least one distal location sensor in the distal junction. 12. A catheter comprising:
an elongated catheter body having proximal and distal ends and at least one lumen therethrough, the catheter body defining a longitudinal axis; an electrode assembly at the distal end of the catheter body, the electrode assembly having proximal and distal ends and comprising a plurality of spines, at least one of the spines carrying one or more electrodes; an expander having proximal and distal ends, the expander defining a longitudinal axis of the electrode assembly, the distal end of the expander being located proximal of the distal end of the electrode assembly, each of the plurality of spines having a bowed proximal region extending from a proximal end of the spine and a generally straight distal region terminating in a distal end of the spine, the generally straight distal region of each spine being generally coaxial with the expander, and each of the plurality of spines being attached at their proximal ends to the catheter body and at their distal ends to the distal end of the expander; at least one bend sensor configured to generate signals responsive to a bend radius of the plurality of spines; at least one puller wire that extends through the expander, the puller wire having a distal end anchored in the expander; and a control handle proximal of the catheter body, the control handle having an actuator adapted to move the at least one puller wire, wherein the expander is configured for longitudinal movement relative to the catheter body and for deflection relative to the longitudinal axis. 13. The catheter of claim 12, wherein the electrode assembly is adapted to assume an expanded configuration in response to longitudinal movement of the expander relative to the catheter body, and to assume an asymmetrical configuration in response to deflection of the expander relative to the longitudinal axis of the catheter body. 14. The catheter of claim 12, wherein the bowed region of each of the plurality of spines has a degree of curvature that changes similarly in response to longitudinal movement of the expander relative to the catheter body, and that changes differently in response to deflection of the expander relative to the longitudinal axis of the catheter body. 15. The catheter of claim 12, wherein the at least one bend sensor comprises at least one piezoelectric sensor configured to general electrical signals proportional to a force or torque exerted thereon when the catheter bends. 16. The catheter of claim 12, wherein the at least one bend sensor comprises at least strain sensor or at least one fiber optic sensor configured to determine a bend radius by measuring a loss and/or a back-reflection of light in an optical fiber. 17. The catheter of claim 12, further comprising a proximal junction at the distal end of the catheter body, the proximal junction comprising:
a proximal junction tubing having a proximal end and a distal end, the proximal end being mounted over the distal end of the catheter body; a proximal junction ring inside the distal end of the proximal junction tubing, the proximal junction ring having a through-hole; and a proximal junction tunnel member in the through-hole of the proximal junction ring, wherein the proximal junction tunnel member has a lumen through which the expander extends and has longitudinal movement. 18. The catheter of claim 17, wherein the proximal ends of the spines are mounted in the proximal junction between the proximal junction ring and the proximal junction tunnel member. 19. The catheter of claim 17, further comprising a distal junction at the distal end of the expander, the distal junction comprising:
a distal junction outer tubing having a lumen; a puller wire anchor in the lumen of the distal junction outer tubing; and a distal junction ring in the lumen of the distal junction outer tubing, wherein the distal ends of the spines are anchored between the distal junction ring and the puller wire anchor. 20. The catheter of claim 19, wherein the at least one bend sensor comprises at least one proximal bend sensor in the proximal junction, and at least one distal bend sensor in the distal junction. | 2,800 |
349,374 | 16,806,986 | 2,895 | A receipt printer management apparatus includes a first interface for communicating with a receipt printer in a store, a storage device which stores first statistical information indicating a number of customers in the store during past time periods, and second statistical information indicating an amount of paper used by the receipt printer during past time periods, and a processor programmed to perform a prediction processing including: calculating, based on the first and second statistical information, a replacement time period for replacing paper in the receipt printer, and outputting information indicating the calculated replacement time period. | 1. A receipt printer management apparatus comprising:
a first interface for communicating with a receipt printer in a store; a storage device which stores
first statistical information indicating a number of customers in the store during past time periods, and
second statistical information indicating an amount of paper used by the receipt printer during past time periods; and
a processor programmed to perform a prediction processing including:
calculating, based on the first and second statistical information, a replacement time period for replacing paper in the receipt printer, and
outputting information indicating the calculated replacement time period. 2. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein
the first interface is configured to communicate with a point of sales (POS) terminal in the store, and the information is output to the POS terminal via the first interface. 3. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein
the processor is further programmed to perform a correction processing including:
upon receipt of correction data indicating an actual amount of paper currently remaining in the receipt printer via the first interface, determining whether the calculated replacement time period needs to be corrected,
upon determining that the calculated replacement time period needs to be corrected, correcting the calculated replacement time period based on the correction data, and
outputting information indicating the corrected replacement time period. 4. The apparatus according to claim 3, wherein
the prediction processing is performed at a first predetermined time of a day. 5. The apparatus according to claim 4, wherein
the correction processing is performed at a second predetermined time after the first predetermined time. 6. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein
the prediction processing further includes:
determining whether a current time is within the calculated replacement time period, and
upon determining that the current time is within the calculated replacement time period, outputting information indicating that paper in the receipt printer needs to be replaced. 7. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein
the information is output in a form of an image. 8. The apparatus according to claim 7, wherein
the image indicates the number of customers in the store during the past time periods. 9. The apparatus according to claim 8, wherein
the image indicates a graph of the number of customers in the store during the past time periods. 10. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein
the first statistical information further indicates a number of transactions during the past time periods for:
each day of the week,
each of a plurality of weather types, and
each of a plurality of promotion events. 11. The apparatus according to claim 10, wherein
the calculation of the replacement time period is further based on:
a current day of the week,
a current weather type, and
whether a promotion event is scheduled for the current day. 12. The apparatus according to claim 11, further comprising:
a second interface, wherein the current weather type is received from a weather forecasting server via the second interface. 13. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein
upon receipt of information indicating that paper in the receipt printer is replaced, the processor stores the information in the storage device and performs the prediction processing based on the information. | A receipt printer management apparatus includes a first interface for communicating with a receipt printer in a store, a storage device which stores first statistical information indicating a number of customers in the store during past time periods, and second statistical information indicating an amount of paper used by the receipt printer during past time periods, and a processor programmed to perform a prediction processing including: calculating, based on the first and second statistical information, a replacement time period for replacing paper in the receipt printer, and outputting information indicating the calculated replacement time period.1. A receipt printer management apparatus comprising:
a first interface for communicating with a receipt printer in a store; a storage device which stores
first statistical information indicating a number of customers in the store during past time periods, and
second statistical information indicating an amount of paper used by the receipt printer during past time periods; and
a processor programmed to perform a prediction processing including:
calculating, based on the first and second statistical information, a replacement time period for replacing paper in the receipt printer, and
outputting information indicating the calculated replacement time period. 2. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein
the first interface is configured to communicate with a point of sales (POS) terminal in the store, and the information is output to the POS terminal via the first interface. 3. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein
the processor is further programmed to perform a correction processing including:
upon receipt of correction data indicating an actual amount of paper currently remaining in the receipt printer via the first interface, determining whether the calculated replacement time period needs to be corrected,
upon determining that the calculated replacement time period needs to be corrected, correcting the calculated replacement time period based on the correction data, and
outputting information indicating the corrected replacement time period. 4. The apparatus according to claim 3, wherein
the prediction processing is performed at a first predetermined time of a day. 5. The apparatus according to claim 4, wherein
the correction processing is performed at a second predetermined time after the first predetermined time. 6. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein
the prediction processing further includes:
determining whether a current time is within the calculated replacement time period, and
upon determining that the current time is within the calculated replacement time period, outputting information indicating that paper in the receipt printer needs to be replaced. 7. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein
the information is output in a form of an image. 8. The apparatus according to claim 7, wherein
the image indicates the number of customers in the store during the past time periods. 9. The apparatus according to claim 8, wherein
the image indicates a graph of the number of customers in the store during the past time periods. 10. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein
the first statistical information further indicates a number of transactions during the past time periods for:
each day of the week,
each of a plurality of weather types, and
each of a plurality of promotion events. 11. The apparatus according to claim 10, wherein
the calculation of the replacement time period is further based on:
a current day of the week,
a current weather type, and
whether a promotion event is scheduled for the current day. 12. The apparatus according to claim 11, further comprising:
a second interface, wherein the current weather type is received from a weather forecasting server via the second interface. 13. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein
upon receipt of information indicating that paper in the receipt printer is replaced, the processor stores the information in the storage device and performs the prediction processing based on the information. | 2,800 |
349,375 | 16,806,929 | 2,895 | Disclosed herein are computer-implemented method, system, and computer-program product (non-transitory computer-readable storage medium) embodiments for automatic test-pattern generation (ATPG) validation. An embodiment includes parsing an ATPG input, semantically analyzing the ATPG input, generating a first HDL model based on the semantic analysis, creating an HDL testbench based on the first HDL model, simulating an ATE test of a circuit structure, and outputting a validation result of the circuit structure, based on the simulating. In some embodiments, the parsing may include lexical and/or syntactic analysis. The HDL model may represent the circuit structure as functionally equivalent to the ATPG input, as determined based on the semantic analysis. In some embodiments, the ATPG input includes a cycle-based test pattern for a first block of the ATPG input, and the HDL testbench includes event-based test patterns that mimic given ATE behavior. The HDL model may be smaller in size than the ATPG input. | 1. A computer-implemented method of automatic test-pattern generation (ATPG) validation, comprising:
parsing, by at least one computer processor, an ATPG input; performing, by the at least one computer processor, semantic analysis on the ATPG input comprising a cycle-based test pattern, for a first block of the ATPG input; generating, by the at least one computer processor, a hardware-description language (HDL) model based on the semantic analysis, wherein the HDL model represents a circuit structure that shares functional equivalence with the ATPG input based on the semantic analysis; and creating, by the at least one computer processor, an HDL testbench based on the HDL model, wherein the HDL testbench comprises a plurality of event-based test patterns that mimic a given automatic test equipment (ATE) behavior; simulating, by the at least one computer processor, an ATE test of the circuit structure of the ATPG input, by running the HDL testbench based on the HDL model; and outputting, by the at least one computer processor, a validation result of the circuit structure, based on the simulating. 2. The computer-implemented method of claim 1, wherein the HDL model is smaller in size than the first block of the ATPG input. 3. The computer-implemented method of claim 1, further comprising generating debugging output for debugging the ATPG input. 4. The computer-implemented method of claim 1, wherein the simulating comprises running the HDL testbench in at least one execution scheme, comprising sequential execution, concurrent execution through partitions, serial access to scan cells, parallel access to the scan cells, or a combination thereof. 5. The computer-implemented method of claim 1, wherein the HDL testbench is part of a layered HDL testbench architecture, and wherein the semantic analysis is aborted in response to a failure of the parsing. 6. The computer-implemented method of claim 1, wherein the ATPG validation is performed in an HDL domain separate from an ATPG testing domain, before ATE testing of a device under test (DUT). 7. The computer-implemented method of claim 1, wherein the given ATE behavior comprises a stimulus, and wherein the stimulus corresponds to a given test pattern in the HDL testbench, wherein the given test pattern is represented in the HDL testbench only by a functional description. 8. A non-transitory computer-readable storage medium storing instructions for automatic test-pattern generation (ATPG) validation that, when executed by a computer processor, cause the computer processor to:
parsing an ATPG input; performing semantic analysis on the ATPG input comprising a cycle-based test pattern, for a first block of the ATPG input; generating a hardware-description language (HDL) model based on the semantic analysis, wherein the HDL model represents a circuit structure that shares functional equivalence with the ATPG input based on the semantic analysis; and creating an HDL testbench based on the HDL model, wherein the HDL testbench comprises a plurality of event-based test patterns that mimic a given automatic test equipment (ATE) behavior; simulating an ATE test of the circuit structure of the ATPG input, by running the HDL testbench based on the HDL model; and outputting a validation result of the circuit structure, based on the simulating. 9. The non-transitory computer-readable storage medium of claim 8, wherein the HDL model is smaller in size than the first block of the ATPG input. 10. The non-transitory computer-readable storage medium of claim 8, further comprising generating debugging output for debugging the ATPG input. 11. The non-transitory computer-readable storage medium of claim 8, wherein the simulating comprises running the HDL testbench in at least one execution scheme, comprising sequential execution, concurrent execution through partitions, serial access to scan cells, parallel access to the scan cells, or a combination thereof. 12. The non-transitory computer-readable storage medium of claim 8, wherein the HDL testbench is part of a layered HDL testbench architecture, and wherein the semantic analysis is aborted in response to a failure of the parsing. 13. The non-transitory computer-readable storage medium of claim 8, wherein the ATPG validation is performed in an HDL domain separate from an ATPG testing domain, before ATE testing of a device under test (DUT). 14. A system for automatic test-pattern generation (ATPG) validation, comprising:
a memory; and at least one computer processor connected to the memory and configured at least to:
parse an ATPG input;
perform semantic analysis on the ATPG input comprising a cycle-based test pattern, for a first block of the ATPG input;
generate a hardware-description language (HDL) model based on the semantic analysis, wherein the HDL model represents a circuit structure that shares functional equivalence with the ATPG input based on the semantic analysis; and
create an HDL testbench based on the HDL model, wherein the HDL testbench comprises a plurality of event-based test patterns that mimic a given automatic test equipment (ATE) behavior;
simulate an ATE test of the circuit structure of the ATPG input, by running the HDL testbench based on the HDL model; and
output a validation result of the circuit structure, based on the simulating. 15. The system of claim 14, wherein the HDL model is smaller in size than the first block of the ATPG input. 16. The system of claim 14, further comprising generating debugging output for debugging the ATPG input. 17. The system of claim 14, wherein to simulate the ATE test of the circuit structure of the ATPG input, the operations further comprise running the HDL testbench in at least one execution scheme, comprising sequential execution, concurrent execution through partitions, serial access to scan cells, parallel access to the scan cells, or a combination thereof. 18. The system of claim 14, wherein the HDL testbench is part of a layered HDL testbench architecture, and wherein the semantic analysis is aborted in response to a failure of the operation to parse the ATPG input. 19. The system of claim 14, wherein the ATPG validation is performed in an HDL domain separate from an ATPG testing domain, before ATE testing of a device under test (DUT). 20. The system of claim 14, wherein the given ATE behavior comprises a stimulus, and wherein the stimulus corresponds to a given test pattern in the HDL testbench, wherein the given test pattern is represented in the HDL testbench only by a functional description. | Disclosed herein are computer-implemented method, system, and computer-program product (non-transitory computer-readable storage medium) embodiments for automatic test-pattern generation (ATPG) validation. An embodiment includes parsing an ATPG input, semantically analyzing the ATPG input, generating a first HDL model based on the semantic analysis, creating an HDL testbench based on the first HDL model, simulating an ATE test of a circuit structure, and outputting a validation result of the circuit structure, based on the simulating. In some embodiments, the parsing may include lexical and/or syntactic analysis. The HDL model may represent the circuit structure as functionally equivalent to the ATPG input, as determined based on the semantic analysis. In some embodiments, the ATPG input includes a cycle-based test pattern for a first block of the ATPG input, and the HDL testbench includes event-based test patterns that mimic given ATE behavior. The HDL model may be smaller in size than the ATPG input.1. A computer-implemented method of automatic test-pattern generation (ATPG) validation, comprising:
parsing, by at least one computer processor, an ATPG input; performing, by the at least one computer processor, semantic analysis on the ATPG input comprising a cycle-based test pattern, for a first block of the ATPG input; generating, by the at least one computer processor, a hardware-description language (HDL) model based on the semantic analysis, wherein the HDL model represents a circuit structure that shares functional equivalence with the ATPG input based on the semantic analysis; and creating, by the at least one computer processor, an HDL testbench based on the HDL model, wherein the HDL testbench comprises a plurality of event-based test patterns that mimic a given automatic test equipment (ATE) behavior; simulating, by the at least one computer processor, an ATE test of the circuit structure of the ATPG input, by running the HDL testbench based on the HDL model; and outputting, by the at least one computer processor, a validation result of the circuit structure, based on the simulating. 2. The computer-implemented method of claim 1, wherein the HDL model is smaller in size than the first block of the ATPG input. 3. The computer-implemented method of claim 1, further comprising generating debugging output for debugging the ATPG input. 4. The computer-implemented method of claim 1, wherein the simulating comprises running the HDL testbench in at least one execution scheme, comprising sequential execution, concurrent execution through partitions, serial access to scan cells, parallel access to the scan cells, or a combination thereof. 5. The computer-implemented method of claim 1, wherein the HDL testbench is part of a layered HDL testbench architecture, and wherein the semantic analysis is aborted in response to a failure of the parsing. 6. The computer-implemented method of claim 1, wherein the ATPG validation is performed in an HDL domain separate from an ATPG testing domain, before ATE testing of a device under test (DUT). 7. The computer-implemented method of claim 1, wherein the given ATE behavior comprises a stimulus, and wherein the stimulus corresponds to a given test pattern in the HDL testbench, wherein the given test pattern is represented in the HDL testbench only by a functional description. 8. A non-transitory computer-readable storage medium storing instructions for automatic test-pattern generation (ATPG) validation that, when executed by a computer processor, cause the computer processor to:
parsing an ATPG input; performing semantic analysis on the ATPG input comprising a cycle-based test pattern, for a first block of the ATPG input; generating a hardware-description language (HDL) model based on the semantic analysis, wherein the HDL model represents a circuit structure that shares functional equivalence with the ATPG input based on the semantic analysis; and creating an HDL testbench based on the HDL model, wherein the HDL testbench comprises a plurality of event-based test patterns that mimic a given automatic test equipment (ATE) behavior; simulating an ATE test of the circuit structure of the ATPG input, by running the HDL testbench based on the HDL model; and outputting a validation result of the circuit structure, based on the simulating. 9. The non-transitory computer-readable storage medium of claim 8, wherein the HDL model is smaller in size than the first block of the ATPG input. 10. The non-transitory computer-readable storage medium of claim 8, further comprising generating debugging output for debugging the ATPG input. 11. The non-transitory computer-readable storage medium of claim 8, wherein the simulating comprises running the HDL testbench in at least one execution scheme, comprising sequential execution, concurrent execution through partitions, serial access to scan cells, parallel access to the scan cells, or a combination thereof. 12. The non-transitory computer-readable storage medium of claim 8, wherein the HDL testbench is part of a layered HDL testbench architecture, and wherein the semantic analysis is aborted in response to a failure of the parsing. 13. The non-transitory computer-readable storage medium of claim 8, wherein the ATPG validation is performed in an HDL domain separate from an ATPG testing domain, before ATE testing of a device under test (DUT). 14. A system for automatic test-pattern generation (ATPG) validation, comprising:
a memory; and at least one computer processor connected to the memory and configured at least to:
parse an ATPG input;
perform semantic analysis on the ATPG input comprising a cycle-based test pattern, for a first block of the ATPG input;
generate a hardware-description language (HDL) model based on the semantic analysis, wherein the HDL model represents a circuit structure that shares functional equivalence with the ATPG input based on the semantic analysis; and
create an HDL testbench based on the HDL model, wherein the HDL testbench comprises a plurality of event-based test patterns that mimic a given automatic test equipment (ATE) behavior;
simulate an ATE test of the circuit structure of the ATPG input, by running the HDL testbench based on the HDL model; and
output a validation result of the circuit structure, based on the simulating. 15. The system of claim 14, wherein the HDL model is smaller in size than the first block of the ATPG input. 16. The system of claim 14, further comprising generating debugging output for debugging the ATPG input. 17. The system of claim 14, wherein to simulate the ATE test of the circuit structure of the ATPG input, the operations further comprise running the HDL testbench in at least one execution scheme, comprising sequential execution, concurrent execution through partitions, serial access to scan cells, parallel access to the scan cells, or a combination thereof. 18. The system of claim 14, wherein the HDL testbench is part of a layered HDL testbench architecture, and wherein the semantic analysis is aborted in response to a failure of the operation to parse the ATPG input. 19. The system of claim 14, wherein the ATPG validation is performed in an HDL domain separate from an ATPG testing domain, before ATE testing of a device under test (DUT). 20. The system of claim 14, wherein the given ATE behavior comprises a stimulus, and wherein the stimulus corresponds to a given test pattern in the HDL testbench, wherein the given test pattern is represented in the HDL testbench only by a functional description. | 2,800 |
349,376 | 16,806,972 | 2,895 | Electrochromic devices and methods may employ the addition of a defect-mitigating insulating layer which prevents electronically conducting layers and/or electrochromically active layers from contacting layers of the opposite polarity and creating a short circuit in regions where defects form. In some embodiments, an encapsulating layer is provided to encapsulate particles and prevent them from ejecting from the device stack and risking a short circuit when subsequent layers are deposited. The insulating layer may have an electronic resistivity of between about 1 and 108 Ohm-cm. In some embodiments, the insulating layer contains one or more of the following metal oxides: aluminum oxide, zinc oxide, tin oxide, silicon aluminum oxide, cerium oxide, tungsten oxide, nickel tungsten oxide, and oxidized indium tin oxide. Carbides, nitrides, oxynitrides, and oxycarbides may also be used. | 1. An electrochromic device, comprising:
(a) a transparent substrate; (b) a first transparent conductive layer disposed on the transparent substrate; (c) a titanium dioxide layer disposed on or over the first transparent conductive layer; (d) a tungsten oxide-based electrochromic layer disposed on the titanium dioxide layer; (e) a nickel oxide-based counter electrode disposed on or over the tungsten oxide-based electrochromic layer; and (f) a second transparent conductive layer disposed on or over the nickel oxide-based counter electrode. 2. The electrochromic device of claim 1, wherein the first transparent conductive layer contacts the transparent substrate. 3. The electrochromic device of claim 1, wherein the titanium dioxide layer contacts the first transparent conductive layer. 4. The electrochromic device of claim 1, wherein the tungsten oxide-based electrochromic layer contacts the titanium dioxide layer. 5. The electrochromic device of claim 1, wherein the nickel oxide-based counter electrode contacts the tungsten oxide-based electrochromic layer. 6. The electrochromic device of claim 1, wherein the second transparent conductive layer contacts the nickel oxide-based counter electrode. 7. The electrochromic device of claim 1, wherein the titanium dioxide layer has a thickness of between about 5 nm and about 100 nm. 8. The electrochromic device of claim 1, wherein the tungsten oxide-based electrochromic layer comprises a cathodically coloring material. 9. The electrochromic device of claim 1, wherein the nickel oxide-based counter electrode comprises an anodically coloring electrochromic material. 10. The electrochromic device of claim 1, wherein the first transparent conductive layer comprises a fluorinated tin oxide, and wherein the second transparent conductive layer comprises an indium tin oxide. 11. The electrochromic device of claim 1, wherein the first transparent conductive layer and the second transparent conductive layer comprise an indium tin oxide. 12. The electrochromic device of claim 1, wherein the nickel oxide-based counter electrode is doped with tungsten, vanadium, aluminum, magnesium, tantalum, chromium, manganese, or a combination thereof. 13. The electrochromic device of claim 1, wherein the tungsten oxide-based electrochromic layer comprises a plurality of sub-layers. 14. The electrochromic device of claim 1, wherein the tungsten oxide-based electrochromic layer comprises one or more of molybdenum and titanium. 15. The electrochromic device of claim 1, wherein the tungsten oxide-based electrochromic layer has a crystalline morphology. 16. The electrochromic device of claim 1, wherein the nickel oxide-based counter electrode has an amorphous morphology. 17. The electrochromic device of claim 1, wherein the nickel oxide-based counter electrode comprises a plurality of sub-layers. 18. The electrochromic device of claim 1, further comprising an ion conductive layer between the tungsten oxide-based electrochromic layer and the nickel oxide-based counter electrode. 19. The electrochromic device of claim 18, wherein the ion conductive layer was formed in situ, after depositing the nickel oxide-based counter electrode on the tungsten oxide-based electrochromic layer. 20. The electrochromic device of claim 18, wherein the ion conductive layer was formed by depositing the ion conductive layer on the tungsten oxide-based electrochromic layer. 21. The electrochromic device of claim 20, wherein the ion conductive layer deposited on the tungsten oxide-based electrochromic layer comprises a silicate, an oxide of silicon, an oxide of tungsten, an oxide of tantalum, an oxide of niobium, or a borate. 22. The electrochromic device of claim 20, wherein the ion conductive layer deposited on the tungsten oxide-based electrochromic layer comprises a material selected from the group consisting of lithium silicon-aluminum-oxide, lithium silicate, lithium aluminum silicate, lithium aluminum borate, lithium aluminum fluoride, lithium borate, lithium nitride, lithium zirconium silicate, lithium niobate, lithium tungstate, lithium borosilicate, and lithium phosphosilicate. 23. The electrochromic device of claim 20, wherein the ion conductive layer deposited on the tungsten oxide-based electrochromic layer comprises a material selected from the group consisting of lithium-based ceramic materials, lithium-based silicas, and lithium-based silicon oxides. | Electrochromic devices and methods may employ the addition of a defect-mitigating insulating layer which prevents electronically conducting layers and/or electrochromically active layers from contacting layers of the opposite polarity and creating a short circuit in regions where defects form. In some embodiments, an encapsulating layer is provided to encapsulate particles and prevent them from ejecting from the device stack and risking a short circuit when subsequent layers are deposited. The insulating layer may have an electronic resistivity of between about 1 and 108 Ohm-cm. In some embodiments, the insulating layer contains one or more of the following metal oxides: aluminum oxide, zinc oxide, tin oxide, silicon aluminum oxide, cerium oxide, tungsten oxide, nickel tungsten oxide, and oxidized indium tin oxide. Carbides, nitrides, oxynitrides, and oxycarbides may also be used.1. An electrochromic device, comprising:
(a) a transparent substrate; (b) a first transparent conductive layer disposed on the transparent substrate; (c) a titanium dioxide layer disposed on or over the first transparent conductive layer; (d) a tungsten oxide-based electrochromic layer disposed on the titanium dioxide layer; (e) a nickel oxide-based counter electrode disposed on or over the tungsten oxide-based electrochromic layer; and (f) a second transparent conductive layer disposed on or over the nickel oxide-based counter electrode. 2. The electrochromic device of claim 1, wherein the first transparent conductive layer contacts the transparent substrate. 3. The electrochromic device of claim 1, wherein the titanium dioxide layer contacts the first transparent conductive layer. 4. The electrochromic device of claim 1, wherein the tungsten oxide-based electrochromic layer contacts the titanium dioxide layer. 5. The electrochromic device of claim 1, wherein the nickel oxide-based counter electrode contacts the tungsten oxide-based electrochromic layer. 6. The electrochromic device of claim 1, wherein the second transparent conductive layer contacts the nickel oxide-based counter electrode. 7. The electrochromic device of claim 1, wherein the titanium dioxide layer has a thickness of between about 5 nm and about 100 nm. 8. The electrochromic device of claim 1, wherein the tungsten oxide-based electrochromic layer comprises a cathodically coloring material. 9. The electrochromic device of claim 1, wherein the nickel oxide-based counter electrode comprises an anodically coloring electrochromic material. 10. The electrochromic device of claim 1, wherein the first transparent conductive layer comprises a fluorinated tin oxide, and wherein the second transparent conductive layer comprises an indium tin oxide. 11. The electrochromic device of claim 1, wherein the first transparent conductive layer and the second transparent conductive layer comprise an indium tin oxide. 12. The electrochromic device of claim 1, wherein the nickel oxide-based counter electrode is doped with tungsten, vanadium, aluminum, magnesium, tantalum, chromium, manganese, or a combination thereof. 13. The electrochromic device of claim 1, wherein the tungsten oxide-based electrochromic layer comprises a plurality of sub-layers. 14. The electrochromic device of claim 1, wherein the tungsten oxide-based electrochromic layer comprises one or more of molybdenum and titanium. 15. The electrochromic device of claim 1, wherein the tungsten oxide-based electrochromic layer has a crystalline morphology. 16. The electrochromic device of claim 1, wherein the nickel oxide-based counter electrode has an amorphous morphology. 17. The electrochromic device of claim 1, wherein the nickel oxide-based counter electrode comprises a plurality of sub-layers. 18. The electrochromic device of claim 1, further comprising an ion conductive layer between the tungsten oxide-based electrochromic layer and the nickel oxide-based counter electrode. 19. The electrochromic device of claim 18, wherein the ion conductive layer was formed in situ, after depositing the nickel oxide-based counter electrode on the tungsten oxide-based electrochromic layer. 20. The electrochromic device of claim 18, wherein the ion conductive layer was formed by depositing the ion conductive layer on the tungsten oxide-based electrochromic layer. 21. The electrochromic device of claim 20, wherein the ion conductive layer deposited on the tungsten oxide-based electrochromic layer comprises a silicate, an oxide of silicon, an oxide of tungsten, an oxide of tantalum, an oxide of niobium, or a borate. 22. The electrochromic device of claim 20, wherein the ion conductive layer deposited on the tungsten oxide-based electrochromic layer comprises a material selected from the group consisting of lithium silicon-aluminum-oxide, lithium silicate, lithium aluminum silicate, lithium aluminum borate, lithium aluminum fluoride, lithium borate, lithium nitride, lithium zirconium silicate, lithium niobate, lithium tungstate, lithium borosilicate, and lithium phosphosilicate. 23. The electrochromic device of claim 20, wherein the ion conductive layer deposited on the tungsten oxide-based electrochromic layer comprises a material selected from the group consisting of lithium-based ceramic materials, lithium-based silicas, and lithium-based silicon oxides. | 2,800 |
349,377 | 16,806,899 | 2,895 | A module having at least a processor, memory and a wireless communication capability communicates with a host computing device that does not include a network device driver and is not able to directly access the network. The module provides wireless network access to the host computing device that does not include a network device driver. The module interfaces internally with the host computing device and utilizes a data frame communication protocol, such as an Ethernet protocol, to pass network data to the host computing device that was received from the network and to receive network data from the host computing device for transmission to the network. | 1. (canceled) 2. A method to communicate network data associated with a network with a host device that does not include a network driver, the method comprising:
receiving a radio frequency signal with a module, the radio frequency signal including network data for a host device that does not include a network driver, the host device unable to communicate with the network without the network driver; generating, with the module, baseband data that includes the network data; adding, with the module, informational data to the baseband data to form host data, the informational data associated with one or more of the RF signal and the network; and sending, with the module, the host data over an interface to the host device, the host data including the network data. 3. The method of claim 2 further comprising adding, with the module, a host communication protocol to the host data before sending the host data to the host device. 4. The method of claim 3 wherein the host communication protocol is mobile broadband interface model (MBIM). 5. The method of claim 2 further comprising retrieving, with the module, subscriber identity module (SIM) data from a SIM card associated with the host device. 6. The method of claim 5 wherein the informational data is further associated with the SIM data. 7. The method of claim 2 wherein the informational data includes one or more of an indication of a network communication protocol, an indication of a network carrier, and an indication of signal strength of the radio frequency signal. 8. The method of claim 2 wherein the interface includes a universal serial bus (USB) port. 9. The method of claim 8 wherein the module is tethered to the host device via a cable in communication with the USB port. 10. The method of claim 2 wherein the interface includes a connector on the module configured to mate with a corresponding connector on the host device. 11. The method of claim 10 wherein the connector is an M.2 connector. 12. A module to communicate network data associated with a network with a host device that does not include a network driver, the host device unable to communicate with the network without the network driver, the module comprising:
an antenna configured to receive and transmit a radio frequency signals, the radio frequency signals including network data for a host device that does not include a network driver, the host device unable to communicate with the network without the network driver; signal processing circuitry configured to generate baseband data that includes the network data; a processor and associated memory that stores instructions to be executed by the processor to add informational data to the baseband data to form host data, the informational data associated with one or more of the radio frequency signal and the network; and an interface configured to send the host data to the host device, the host data including the network data. 13. The module of claim 12 wherein a host communication protocol is added to the host data before sending the host data to the host device. 14. The module of claim 13 wherein the host communication protocol is mobile broadband interface model (MBIM). 15. The module of claim 12 wherein the processor is configured to retrieve subscriber identity module (SIM) data from a SIM card associated with the host device. 16. The module of claim 15 wherein the informational data is further associated with the SIM data. 17. The module of claim 12 wherein the informational data includes one or more of an indication of a network communication protocol, an indication of a network carrier, and an indication of signal strength of the radio frequency signal. 18. The module of claim 12 wherein the interface includes a universal serial bus (USB) port. 19. The module of claim 18 wherein the module is tethered to the host device via a cable in communication with the USB port. 20. The module of claim 12 wherein the interface includes a connector on the module configured to mate with a corresponding connector on the host device. 21. The module of claim 20 wherein the connector is an M.2 connector. | A module having at least a processor, memory and a wireless communication capability communicates with a host computing device that does not include a network device driver and is not able to directly access the network. The module provides wireless network access to the host computing device that does not include a network device driver. The module interfaces internally with the host computing device and utilizes a data frame communication protocol, such as an Ethernet protocol, to pass network data to the host computing device that was received from the network and to receive network data from the host computing device for transmission to the network.1. (canceled) 2. A method to communicate network data associated with a network with a host device that does not include a network driver, the method comprising:
receiving a radio frequency signal with a module, the radio frequency signal including network data for a host device that does not include a network driver, the host device unable to communicate with the network without the network driver; generating, with the module, baseband data that includes the network data; adding, with the module, informational data to the baseband data to form host data, the informational data associated with one or more of the RF signal and the network; and sending, with the module, the host data over an interface to the host device, the host data including the network data. 3. The method of claim 2 further comprising adding, with the module, a host communication protocol to the host data before sending the host data to the host device. 4. The method of claim 3 wherein the host communication protocol is mobile broadband interface model (MBIM). 5. The method of claim 2 further comprising retrieving, with the module, subscriber identity module (SIM) data from a SIM card associated with the host device. 6. The method of claim 5 wherein the informational data is further associated with the SIM data. 7. The method of claim 2 wherein the informational data includes one or more of an indication of a network communication protocol, an indication of a network carrier, and an indication of signal strength of the radio frequency signal. 8. The method of claim 2 wherein the interface includes a universal serial bus (USB) port. 9. The method of claim 8 wherein the module is tethered to the host device via a cable in communication with the USB port. 10. The method of claim 2 wherein the interface includes a connector on the module configured to mate with a corresponding connector on the host device. 11. The method of claim 10 wherein the connector is an M.2 connector. 12. A module to communicate network data associated with a network with a host device that does not include a network driver, the host device unable to communicate with the network without the network driver, the module comprising:
an antenna configured to receive and transmit a radio frequency signals, the radio frequency signals including network data for a host device that does not include a network driver, the host device unable to communicate with the network without the network driver; signal processing circuitry configured to generate baseband data that includes the network data; a processor and associated memory that stores instructions to be executed by the processor to add informational data to the baseband data to form host data, the informational data associated with one or more of the radio frequency signal and the network; and an interface configured to send the host data to the host device, the host data including the network data. 13. The module of claim 12 wherein a host communication protocol is added to the host data before sending the host data to the host device. 14. The module of claim 13 wherein the host communication protocol is mobile broadband interface model (MBIM). 15. The module of claim 12 wherein the processor is configured to retrieve subscriber identity module (SIM) data from a SIM card associated with the host device. 16. The module of claim 15 wherein the informational data is further associated with the SIM data. 17. The module of claim 12 wherein the informational data includes one or more of an indication of a network communication protocol, an indication of a network carrier, and an indication of signal strength of the radio frequency signal. 18. The module of claim 12 wherein the interface includes a universal serial bus (USB) port. 19. The module of claim 18 wherein the module is tethered to the host device via a cable in communication with the USB port. 20. The module of claim 12 wherein the interface includes a connector on the module configured to mate with a corresponding connector on the host device. 21. The module of claim 20 wherein the connector is an M.2 connector. | 2,800 |
349,378 | 16,806,934 | 2,895 | Some embodiments of the invention provide a three-dimensional (3D) circuit that is formed by stacking two or more integrated circuit (IC) dies to at least partially overlap and to share one or more interconnect layers that distribute power, clock and/or data-bus signals. The shared interconnect layers include interconnect segments that carry power, clock and/or data-bus signals. In some embodiments, the shared interconnect layers are higher level interconnect layers (e.g., the top interconnect layer of each IC die). In some embodiments, the stacked IC dies of the 3D circuit include first and second IC dies. The first die includes a first semiconductor substrate and a first set of interconnect layers defined above the first semiconductor substrate. Similarly, the second IC die includes a second semiconductor substrate and a second set of interconnect layers defined above the second semiconductor substrate. As further described below, the first and second dies in some embodiments are placed in a face-to-face arrangement (e.g., a vertically stacked arrangement) that has the first and second set of interconnect layers facing each other. In some embodiments, a subset of one or more interconnect layers of the second set interconnect layers of the second die has interconnect wiring that carries power, clock and/or data-bus signals that are supplied to the first IC die. | 1-20. (canceled) 21. A method of fabricating a three-dimensional (3D) circuit comprising:
face-to-face mounting a first integrated circuit (IC) die and a second IC die, the first IC die comprising a first semiconductor substrate and a first set of interconnect layers defined on a front side the first semiconductor substrate, the second IC die comprising a second semiconductor substrate and a second set of interconnect layers defined on a front side of the second semiconductor substrate, the first and second sets of interconnect layers abutting each other after the face-to-face mounting of the first and second IC dies; and defining a third set of interconnect layers on a back side of the second semiconductor substrate. 22. The method of claim 21, wherein the third set of interconnect layers provides system level signals to a set of interconnect segments of the first and second interconnect layers. 23. The method of claim 22, wherein the system level signals are further provided to circuits defined on the first and second substrates of the first and second dies through the set of interconnect segments of the first and second interconnect layers. 24. The method of claim 22, wherein the set of interconnect segments includes a plurality of interconnect segments in each of the first and second sets of interconnect layers. 25. The method of claim 22, wherein the system level signals comprise power signals. 26. The method of claim 25, wherein
at least one of the first and second sets of interconnect layers comprises power interconnect segments, and the third set of interconnect layers comprise power interconnect segments that are wider than power interconnect segments of the first and second sets of interconnect layers. 27. The method of claim 26 further comprising defining a plurality of through silicon vias (TSVs) to carry power signals from the wider power interconnect segments of the third set of interconnect layers to core circuits in the interior of the first or second die. 28. The method of claim 27, wherein at least a set of TSVs connect to power interconnect segments of the third set of interconnect layers to power interconnect segments of the first or second set of interconnect layers. 29. The method of claim 27, wherein at least a set of TSVs connect to power interconnect segments of the third set of interconnect layers to circuits defined on the first or second substrate of the first or second IC die. 30. The method of claim 27, wherein at least a set of TSVs supply power signals to core circuits that are closer to the center of the first or second die than to peripheral sides of the first or second die. 31. The method of claim 25, wherein the third set of interconnect layers comprise a power mesh formed by overlapping power/ground interconnect segments on different interconnect layers of the third set of interconnect layers. 32. The method of claim 22, wherein the system level signals comprise clock signals. 33. The method of claim 32, wherein the third set of interconnect layers comprise a clock distribution interconnect structure. 34. The method of claim 33, wherein the clock distribution interconnect structure comprises interconnected clock interconnect segments on different interconnect layers of the third set of interconnect layers. 35. The method of claim 22, wherein the system level signals comprise data signals from a data bus formed by a plurality of topologically, parallel data lines. 36. The method of claim 21, wherein the face-to-face mounting comprises using a direct bonded connections to face-to-face mount the first and second IC dies. 37. The method of claim 21 further comprising defining a plurality of through silicon vias to establish electrical connections between the face-to-face mounted first and second dies, said electrical connections allowing signals to be exchanged between the first and second dies. 38. The method of claim 21 further comprising performing a thinning operation to thin the back side of the second semiconductor substrate die before defining the third set of interconnect layers on the back side of the second semiconductor substrate. 39. The method of claim 21 further comprising mounting a third IC die on the back side of the second IC die, the third IC die comprising a third semiconductor substrate and the third set of interconnect layers on a front side of the third semiconductor substrate, wherein the second and third IC dies are back-to-front mounted. | Some embodiments of the invention provide a three-dimensional (3D) circuit that is formed by stacking two or more integrated circuit (IC) dies to at least partially overlap and to share one or more interconnect layers that distribute power, clock and/or data-bus signals. The shared interconnect layers include interconnect segments that carry power, clock and/or data-bus signals. In some embodiments, the shared interconnect layers are higher level interconnect layers (e.g., the top interconnect layer of each IC die). In some embodiments, the stacked IC dies of the 3D circuit include first and second IC dies. The first die includes a first semiconductor substrate and a first set of interconnect layers defined above the first semiconductor substrate. Similarly, the second IC die includes a second semiconductor substrate and a second set of interconnect layers defined above the second semiconductor substrate. As further described below, the first and second dies in some embodiments are placed in a face-to-face arrangement (e.g., a vertically stacked arrangement) that has the first and second set of interconnect layers facing each other. In some embodiments, a subset of one or more interconnect layers of the second set interconnect layers of the second die has interconnect wiring that carries power, clock and/or data-bus signals that are supplied to the first IC die.1-20. (canceled) 21. A method of fabricating a three-dimensional (3D) circuit comprising:
face-to-face mounting a first integrated circuit (IC) die and a second IC die, the first IC die comprising a first semiconductor substrate and a first set of interconnect layers defined on a front side the first semiconductor substrate, the second IC die comprising a second semiconductor substrate and a second set of interconnect layers defined on a front side of the second semiconductor substrate, the first and second sets of interconnect layers abutting each other after the face-to-face mounting of the first and second IC dies; and defining a third set of interconnect layers on a back side of the second semiconductor substrate. 22. The method of claim 21, wherein the third set of interconnect layers provides system level signals to a set of interconnect segments of the first and second interconnect layers. 23. The method of claim 22, wherein the system level signals are further provided to circuits defined on the first and second substrates of the first and second dies through the set of interconnect segments of the first and second interconnect layers. 24. The method of claim 22, wherein the set of interconnect segments includes a plurality of interconnect segments in each of the first and second sets of interconnect layers. 25. The method of claim 22, wherein the system level signals comprise power signals. 26. The method of claim 25, wherein
at least one of the first and second sets of interconnect layers comprises power interconnect segments, and the third set of interconnect layers comprise power interconnect segments that are wider than power interconnect segments of the first and second sets of interconnect layers. 27. The method of claim 26 further comprising defining a plurality of through silicon vias (TSVs) to carry power signals from the wider power interconnect segments of the third set of interconnect layers to core circuits in the interior of the first or second die. 28. The method of claim 27, wherein at least a set of TSVs connect to power interconnect segments of the third set of interconnect layers to power interconnect segments of the first or second set of interconnect layers. 29. The method of claim 27, wherein at least a set of TSVs connect to power interconnect segments of the third set of interconnect layers to circuits defined on the first or second substrate of the first or second IC die. 30. The method of claim 27, wherein at least a set of TSVs supply power signals to core circuits that are closer to the center of the first or second die than to peripheral sides of the first or second die. 31. The method of claim 25, wherein the third set of interconnect layers comprise a power mesh formed by overlapping power/ground interconnect segments on different interconnect layers of the third set of interconnect layers. 32. The method of claim 22, wherein the system level signals comprise clock signals. 33. The method of claim 32, wherein the third set of interconnect layers comprise a clock distribution interconnect structure. 34. The method of claim 33, wherein the clock distribution interconnect structure comprises interconnected clock interconnect segments on different interconnect layers of the third set of interconnect layers. 35. The method of claim 22, wherein the system level signals comprise data signals from a data bus formed by a plurality of topologically, parallel data lines. 36. The method of claim 21, wherein the face-to-face mounting comprises using a direct bonded connections to face-to-face mount the first and second IC dies. 37. The method of claim 21 further comprising defining a plurality of through silicon vias to establish electrical connections between the face-to-face mounted first and second dies, said electrical connections allowing signals to be exchanged between the first and second dies. 38. The method of claim 21 further comprising performing a thinning operation to thin the back side of the second semiconductor substrate die before defining the third set of interconnect layers on the back side of the second semiconductor substrate. 39. The method of claim 21 further comprising mounting a third IC die on the back side of the second IC die, the third IC die comprising a third semiconductor substrate and the third set of interconnect layers on a front side of the third semiconductor substrate, wherein the second and third IC dies are back-to-front mounted. | 2,800 |
349,379 | 16,806,810 | 2,895 | A data collection device for attachment to an injection device, such as an injector pen, includes a sensor arrangement to detect movement of a movable component of the injection device relative to the data collection device during delivery of a medicament by the injection device, and a processor arrangement configured to, based on said detected movement, determine a medicament dosage administered by the injection device. The processor arrangement may monitor the time that has elapsed since the medicament dosage was administered, and control a display to show the mediacament dosage and elapsed time to provide a memory aid to the user. In an example embodiment, the sensor arrangement includes an optical encoder and the movable component includes a plurality of light barrier formations. The movable component may be a number sleeve that provides a visual indication of a dose programmed into the injection device. | 1. (canceled) 2. A medication delivery device comprising:
a housing; a dose setting member rotatable relative to the housing about an axis of rotation during dose setting and during dose delivery, an element rotationally fixed with the dose setting member, the element including alternating first and second features circumferentially-spaced about the axis of rotation of the dose setting member; an actuator attached to the device body, the actuator being axially and rotationally fixed relative to the dose setting member in a first operating mode during dose setting, the actuator being rotationally fixed relative to the device body in a second operating mode during dose delivery, the element and the dose setting member being configured to rotate relative to the actuator during dose delivery in relation to the amount of dose delivered, and a rotation sensor attached to the actuator during dose delivery, the rotation sensor including a light source emitting light in a sensing direction during dose delivery, the rotation sensor further comprising a light sensor positioned to receive the light emitted in the sensing direction during dose delivery, the element being configured such that rotation of the element during dose delivery positions the first and second features in a path of the light emitted in the sensing direction to vary light intensities detected by the light sensor, the rotation sensor being configured to detect rotation of the dose setting member relative to the actuator during dose delivery based on the detection of the varying light intensities; and an electronics assembly configured to determine an amount of dose delivery based on the detected rotation of the dose setting member relative to the actuator by the rotation sensor during dose delivery. 3. The medication delivery device of claim 2, wherein the first features comprise surfaces having reflectivities that differ from reflectivities of surfaces of the second features. 4. The medication delivery device of claim 2, wherein the second features comprise portions of the element, and the first features comprise openings defined between the portions of the element. 5. The medication delivery device of claim 2, wherein the dose setting member is a number sleeve. 6. The medication delivery device of claim 2, wherein the dose setting member is a number sleeve having an end with castellations, the castellations being configured to act as light barriers for the light emitted by the light source. 7. The medication delivery device of claim 6, wherein edges of the castellations correspond to medicament dosage increments, and the electronics assembly is configured to determine an amount of medicament delivered based on an output of the rotation sensor. 8. The medication delivery device of claim 7, wherein the electronics assembly is configured to determine the amount of medicament delivered based on a number of transitions between a high level and a low level in the output of the rotation sensor. 9. The medication delivery device of claim 2, wherein the actuator is a dosage knob. 10. The medication delivery device of claim 9, wherein the dose setting member is a number sleeve, and the number sleeve and the dosage knob are configured such that during dose delivery, the number sleeve rotates helically and the dosage knob moves only axially without rotating. 11. The medication delivery device of claim 2, wherein the electronics assembly comprises a processor. 12. The medication delivery device of claim 2, wherein the light source is a light emitting diode. 13. The medication delivery device of claim 2, wherein the housing is part of an injection device, and the rotation sensor and the electronics assembly are parts of a data collection device that is removably attached to the housing. 14. The medication delivery device of claim 13, wherein the data collection device is attached to the actuator. 15. The medication delivery device of claim 14, wherein the data collection device is attached directly to the actuator. 16. The medication delivery device of claim 14, wherein the data collection device is attached to the actuator in a manner such that the data collection device cannot rotate relative to the actuator. 17. The medication delivery device of claim 2, comprising a medicament. 18. The medication delivery device of claim 17, wherein the medicament is an insulin. | A data collection device for attachment to an injection device, such as an injector pen, includes a sensor arrangement to detect movement of a movable component of the injection device relative to the data collection device during delivery of a medicament by the injection device, and a processor arrangement configured to, based on said detected movement, determine a medicament dosage administered by the injection device. The processor arrangement may monitor the time that has elapsed since the medicament dosage was administered, and control a display to show the mediacament dosage and elapsed time to provide a memory aid to the user. In an example embodiment, the sensor arrangement includes an optical encoder and the movable component includes a plurality of light barrier formations. The movable component may be a number sleeve that provides a visual indication of a dose programmed into the injection device.1. (canceled) 2. A medication delivery device comprising:
a housing; a dose setting member rotatable relative to the housing about an axis of rotation during dose setting and during dose delivery, an element rotationally fixed with the dose setting member, the element including alternating first and second features circumferentially-spaced about the axis of rotation of the dose setting member; an actuator attached to the device body, the actuator being axially and rotationally fixed relative to the dose setting member in a first operating mode during dose setting, the actuator being rotationally fixed relative to the device body in a second operating mode during dose delivery, the element and the dose setting member being configured to rotate relative to the actuator during dose delivery in relation to the amount of dose delivered, and a rotation sensor attached to the actuator during dose delivery, the rotation sensor including a light source emitting light in a sensing direction during dose delivery, the rotation sensor further comprising a light sensor positioned to receive the light emitted in the sensing direction during dose delivery, the element being configured such that rotation of the element during dose delivery positions the first and second features in a path of the light emitted in the sensing direction to vary light intensities detected by the light sensor, the rotation sensor being configured to detect rotation of the dose setting member relative to the actuator during dose delivery based on the detection of the varying light intensities; and an electronics assembly configured to determine an amount of dose delivery based on the detected rotation of the dose setting member relative to the actuator by the rotation sensor during dose delivery. 3. The medication delivery device of claim 2, wherein the first features comprise surfaces having reflectivities that differ from reflectivities of surfaces of the second features. 4. The medication delivery device of claim 2, wherein the second features comprise portions of the element, and the first features comprise openings defined between the portions of the element. 5. The medication delivery device of claim 2, wherein the dose setting member is a number sleeve. 6. The medication delivery device of claim 2, wherein the dose setting member is a number sleeve having an end with castellations, the castellations being configured to act as light barriers for the light emitted by the light source. 7. The medication delivery device of claim 6, wherein edges of the castellations correspond to medicament dosage increments, and the electronics assembly is configured to determine an amount of medicament delivered based on an output of the rotation sensor. 8. The medication delivery device of claim 7, wherein the electronics assembly is configured to determine the amount of medicament delivered based on a number of transitions between a high level and a low level in the output of the rotation sensor. 9. The medication delivery device of claim 2, wherein the actuator is a dosage knob. 10. The medication delivery device of claim 9, wherein the dose setting member is a number sleeve, and the number sleeve and the dosage knob are configured such that during dose delivery, the number sleeve rotates helically and the dosage knob moves only axially without rotating. 11. The medication delivery device of claim 2, wherein the electronics assembly comprises a processor. 12. The medication delivery device of claim 2, wherein the light source is a light emitting diode. 13. The medication delivery device of claim 2, wherein the housing is part of an injection device, and the rotation sensor and the electronics assembly are parts of a data collection device that is removably attached to the housing. 14. The medication delivery device of claim 13, wherein the data collection device is attached to the actuator. 15. The medication delivery device of claim 14, wherein the data collection device is attached directly to the actuator. 16. The medication delivery device of claim 14, wherein the data collection device is attached to the actuator in a manner such that the data collection device cannot rotate relative to the actuator. 17. The medication delivery device of claim 2, comprising a medicament. 18. The medication delivery device of claim 17, wherein the medicament is an insulin. | 2,800 |
349,380 | 16,806,885 | 2,895 | A biodegradable and biocompatible piezoelectric nanofiber platform for medical implant applications, including a highly sensitive, wireless, biodegradable force sensor for the monitoring of physiological pressures, and a biodegradable ultrasonic transducer for the delivery of therapeutics or pharmaceuticals across the blood-brain barrier. | 1. A biodegradable ultrasonic transducer comprising:
a first biodegradable metal electrode; a second biodegradable metal electrode; a biodegradable piezoelectric material positioned between the first biodegradable metal electrode and the second biodegradable metal electrode; and an encapsulation layer covering the first biodegradable metal electrode, the second biodegradable metal electrode, and the biodegradable piezoelectric material. 2. The transducer of claim 1, wherein the biodegradable piezoelectric material comprises poly (L-lactic acid) (PLLA). 3. The transducer of claim 1, wherein the encapsulation layer comprises a biodegradable medical polymer. 4. The transducer of claim 3, wherein the biodegradable medical polymer is poly(lactic acid) (PLA). 5. The transducer of claim 1, wherein the biodegradable piezoelectric material has a piezoelectric constant greater than 12 pC/N. 6. The transducer of claim 1, wherein the biodegradable piezoelectric material has a perimeter greater than a perimeter of the first biodegradable metal electrode or the second biodegradable metal electrode. 7. A biodegradable ultrasonic transducer system comprising:
a biodegradable ultrasonic transducer of claim 1; and a coil coupled to the first biodegradable metal electrode and the second biodegradable metal electrode. 8. The system of claim 7, wherein the coil is coupled to the first biodegradable metal electrode with a first wire and to the second biodegradable metal electrode with a second wire. 9. The system of claim 8, wherein the first wire and the second wire comprise Molybdenum (Mo). 10. The system of claim 8, wherein the coil is covered with the encapsulation layer. 11. The system of claim 9, wherein the coil is covered with the encapsulation layer. 12. A method of constructing a biodegradable ultrasonic transducer, the method comprising:
electrospinning PLLA nanofiber to form a nanofiber mesh by rotating a drum at a speed of between 2,000-4,000 rpm; annealing the nanofiber mesh between 100° C.-110° C. for a first period of time; annealing the nanofiber mesh between 155° C.-165 C for a second period of time; sandwiching the annealed nanofiber mesh between a first biodegradable metal electrode and a second biodegradable metal electrode to form a sensor; electrically coupling the sensor to a wire; and encapsulating the sensor and the wire with a biodegradable medical polymer. 13. The method of claim 12, further comprising tuning a nozzle speed to match the drum speed. 14. The method of claim 12, further comprising cutting the nanofiber mesh at a 45° angle relative to an orientation of the nanofibers to harvest a shear piezoelectric signal of the nanofiber mesh. 15. The method of claim 12, wherein the nanofibers in the nanofiber mesh include a crystallinity in a range of 70%-88% after the annealing processes. 16. The method of claim 12, further comprising coupling the wire to an inductive coil. 17. The method of claim 16, wherein the inductive coil comprises Molybdenum (Mo) or Magnesium (Mg). 18. The method of claim 12, wherein the annealed nanofiber mesh is piezoelectric having a piezoelectric constant greater than 12 pC/N. 19. A method of delivering a therapeutic through a blood-brain barrier, the method comprising:
applying the biodegradable ultrasonic transducer constructed by the method of claim 12 to a craniotomy defect; transmitting an ultrasonic wave signal through the wire; and delivering a pulsed acoustic pressure to the defect. 20. The method of claim 19, where the ultrasonic wave signal is driven at 1 MHz. | A biodegradable and biocompatible piezoelectric nanofiber platform for medical implant applications, including a highly sensitive, wireless, biodegradable force sensor for the monitoring of physiological pressures, and a biodegradable ultrasonic transducer for the delivery of therapeutics or pharmaceuticals across the blood-brain barrier.1. A biodegradable ultrasonic transducer comprising:
a first biodegradable metal electrode; a second biodegradable metal electrode; a biodegradable piezoelectric material positioned between the first biodegradable metal electrode and the second biodegradable metal electrode; and an encapsulation layer covering the first biodegradable metal electrode, the second biodegradable metal electrode, and the biodegradable piezoelectric material. 2. The transducer of claim 1, wherein the biodegradable piezoelectric material comprises poly (L-lactic acid) (PLLA). 3. The transducer of claim 1, wherein the encapsulation layer comprises a biodegradable medical polymer. 4. The transducer of claim 3, wherein the biodegradable medical polymer is poly(lactic acid) (PLA). 5. The transducer of claim 1, wherein the biodegradable piezoelectric material has a piezoelectric constant greater than 12 pC/N. 6. The transducer of claim 1, wherein the biodegradable piezoelectric material has a perimeter greater than a perimeter of the first biodegradable metal electrode or the second biodegradable metal electrode. 7. A biodegradable ultrasonic transducer system comprising:
a biodegradable ultrasonic transducer of claim 1; and a coil coupled to the first biodegradable metal electrode and the second biodegradable metal electrode. 8. The system of claim 7, wherein the coil is coupled to the first biodegradable metal electrode with a first wire and to the second biodegradable metal electrode with a second wire. 9. The system of claim 8, wherein the first wire and the second wire comprise Molybdenum (Mo). 10. The system of claim 8, wherein the coil is covered with the encapsulation layer. 11. The system of claim 9, wherein the coil is covered with the encapsulation layer. 12. A method of constructing a biodegradable ultrasonic transducer, the method comprising:
electrospinning PLLA nanofiber to form a nanofiber mesh by rotating a drum at a speed of between 2,000-4,000 rpm; annealing the nanofiber mesh between 100° C.-110° C. for a first period of time; annealing the nanofiber mesh between 155° C.-165 C for a second period of time; sandwiching the annealed nanofiber mesh between a first biodegradable metal electrode and a second biodegradable metal electrode to form a sensor; electrically coupling the sensor to a wire; and encapsulating the sensor and the wire with a biodegradable medical polymer. 13. The method of claim 12, further comprising tuning a nozzle speed to match the drum speed. 14. The method of claim 12, further comprising cutting the nanofiber mesh at a 45° angle relative to an orientation of the nanofibers to harvest a shear piezoelectric signal of the nanofiber mesh. 15. The method of claim 12, wherein the nanofibers in the nanofiber mesh include a crystallinity in a range of 70%-88% after the annealing processes. 16. The method of claim 12, further comprising coupling the wire to an inductive coil. 17. The method of claim 16, wherein the inductive coil comprises Molybdenum (Mo) or Magnesium (Mg). 18. The method of claim 12, wherein the annealed nanofiber mesh is piezoelectric having a piezoelectric constant greater than 12 pC/N. 19. A method of delivering a therapeutic through a blood-brain barrier, the method comprising:
applying the biodegradable ultrasonic transducer constructed by the method of claim 12 to a craniotomy defect; transmitting an ultrasonic wave signal through the wire; and delivering a pulsed acoustic pressure to the defect. 20. The method of claim 19, where the ultrasonic wave signal is driven at 1 MHz. | 2,800 |
349,381 | 16,806,951 | 2,895 | Methods and systems for charging, retaining, and cooling a mobile device in a vehicle. The system includes a tray configured to receive the mobile device, the tray having a plurality of apertures. The system also includes a wireless charger coupled to the tray and configured to wirelessly charge the mobile device. The system also includes a suction device configured to draw air through the plurality of apertures of the tray and create a suction force for reducing lateral movement of the mobile device and cooling the mobile device. | 1. A system for charging, retaining, and cooling a mobile device in a vehicle, the system comprising:
a tray configured to receive the mobile device, the tray having a plurality of apertures; a wireless charger coupled to the tray and configured to wirelessly charge the mobile device; and a suction device configured to draw air through the plurality of apertures of the tray and create a suction force for reducing lateral movement of the mobile device and cooling the mobile device. 2. The system of claim 1, further comprising a switch configured to receive an input from a user to toggle between a plurality of operational modes. 3. The system of claim 2, further comprising an electronic control unit (ECU) configured to receive input data from the switch and activate or deactivate the wireless charger, or activate or deactivate the suction device based on the input data. 4. The system of claim 1, further comprising one or more sensors configured to detect sensor data indicating whether the mobile device is received by the tray. 5. The system of claim 4, further comprising an electronic control unit (ECU) configured to receive the sensor data from the one or more sensors and activate or deactivate the wireless charger, or activate or deactivate the suction device based on the sensor data. 6. The system of claim 5, wherein the one or more sensors include at least one of a weight sensor, an optical sensor, or a temperature sensor. 7. The system of claim 1, wherein the tray includes a top surface configured to contact a bottom surface of the mobile device and the bottom surface of the mobile device covers at least one of the apertures of the plurality of apertures such that the suction force created by the suction device is exerted onto the bottom surface of the mobile device. 8. The system of claim 1, wherein the tray is located between a driver's seat and a passenger's seat in the vehicle and below an infotainment unit in the vehicle. 9. The system of claim 1, wherein the tray is substantially flat and larger than the mobile device. 10. A vehicle comprising:
a tray configured to receive a mobile device, the tray having a plurality of apertures; a wireless charger coupled to the tray and configured to wirelessly charge the mobile device; and a suction device configured to draw air through the plurality of apertures of the tray and create a suction force for reducing lateral movement of the mobile device and cooling the mobile device. 11. The vehicle of claim 10, further comprising a switch configured to receive an input from a user to toggle between a plurality of operational modes. 12. The vehicle of claim 11, further comprising an electronic control unit (ECU) configured to receive input data from the switch and activate or deactivate the wireless charger, or activate or deactivate the suction device based on the input data. 13. The vehicle of claim 10, further comprising one or more sensors configured to detect sensor data indicating whether the mobile device is received by the tray. 14. The vehicle of claim 13, further comprising an electronic control unit (ECU) configured to receive the sensor data from the one or more sensors and activate or deactivate the wireless charger, or activate or deactivate the suction device based on the sensor data. 15. The vehicle of claim 14, wherein the one or more sensors include at least one of a weight sensor, an optical sensor, or a temperature sensor. 16. The vehicle of claim 10, wherein the tray includes a top surface configured to contact a bottom surface of the mobile device and the bottom surface of the mobile device covers at least one of the apertures of the plurality of apertures such that the suction force created by the suction device is exerted onto the bottom surface of the mobile device. 17. The vehicle of claim 10, wherein the tray is located between a driver's seat and a passenger's seat in the vehicle and below an infotainment unit in the vehicle. 18. The vehicle of claim 10, wherein the tray is substantially flat and larger than the mobile device. 19. A method for charging, retaining, and cooling a mobile device in a vehicle, the method comprising:
receiving, by a tray, the mobile device, the tray having a plurality of apertures; wirelessly charging, by a wireless charger coupled to the tray, the mobile device; and drawing air, by a suction device, through the plurality of apertures of the tray to create a suction force for reducing lateral movement of the mobile device and cool the mobile device. 20. The method of claim 19, further comprising controlling, by an electronic control unit (ECU) an operation of the wireless charger or the suction device based on sensor data received from a sensor configured to detect a presence of the mobile device or based on input data received from a switch configured to receive an input from a user. | Methods and systems for charging, retaining, and cooling a mobile device in a vehicle. The system includes a tray configured to receive the mobile device, the tray having a plurality of apertures. The system also includes a wireless charger coupled to the tray and configured to wirelessly charge the mobile device. The system also includes a suction device configured to draw air through the plurality of apertures of the tray and create a suction force for reducing lateral movement of the mobile device and cooling the mobile device.1. A system for charging, retaining, and cooling a mobile device in a vehicle, the system comprising:
a tray configured to receive the mobile device, the tray having a plurality of apertures; a wireless charger coupled to the tray and configured to wirelessly charge the mobile device; and a suction device configured to draw air through the plurality of apertures of the tray and create a suction force for reducing lateral movement of the mobile device and cooling the mobile device. 2. The system of claim 1, further comprising a switch configured to receive an input from a user to toggle between a plurality of operational modes. 3. The system of claim 2, further comprising an electronic control unit (ECU) configured to receive input data from the switch and activate or deactivate the wireless charger, or activate or deactivate the suction device based on the input data. 4. The system of claim 1, further comprising one or more sensors configured to detect sensor data indicating whether the mobile device is received by the tray. 5. The system of claim 4, further comprising an electronic control unit (ECU) configured to receive the sensor data from the one or more sensors and activate or deactivate the wireless charger, or activate or deactivate the suction device based on the sensor data. 6. The system of claim 5, wherein the one or more sensors include at least one of a weight sensor, an optical sensor, or a temperature sensor. 7. The system of claim 1, wherein the tray includes a top surface configured to contact a bottom surface of the mobile device and the bottom surface of the mobile device covers at least one of the apertures of the plurality of apertures such that the suction force created by the suction device is exerted onto the bottom surface of the mobile device. 8. The system of claim 1, wherein the tray is located between a driver's seat and a passenger's seat in the vehicle and below an infotainment unit in the vehicle. 9. The system of claim 1, wherein the tray is substantially flat and larger than the mobile device. 10. A vehicle comprising:
a tray configured to receive a mobile device, the tray having a plurality of apertures; a wireless charger coupled to the tray and configured to wirelessly charge the mobile device; and a suction device configured to draw air through the plurality of apertures of the tray and create a suction force for reducing lateral movement of the mobile device and cooling the mobile device. 11. The vehicle of claim 10, further comprising a switch configured to receive an input from a user to toggle between a plurality of operational modes. 12. The vehicle of claim 11, further comprising an electronic control unit (ECU) configured to receive input data from the switch and activate or deactivate the wireless charger, or activate or deactivate the suction device based on the input data. 13. The vehicle of claim 10, further comprising one or more sensors configured to detect sensor data indicating whether the mobile device is received by the tray. 14. The vehicle of claim 13, further comprising an electronic control unit (ECU) configured to receive the sensor data from the one or more sensors and activate or deactivate the wireless charger, or activate or deactivate the suction device based on the sensor data. 15. The vehicle of claim 14, wherein the one or more sensors include at least one of a weight sensor, an optical sensor, or a temperature sensor. 16. The vehicle of claim 10, wherein the tray includes a top surface configured to contact a bottom surface of the mobile device and the bottom surface of the mobile device covers at least one of the apertures of the plurality of apertures such that the suction force created by the suction device is exerted onto the bottom surface of the mobile device. 17. The vehicle of claim 10, wherein the tray is located between a driver's seat and a passenger's seat in the vehicle and below an infotainment unit in the vehicle. 18. The vehicle of claim 10, wherein the tray is substantially flat and larger than the mobile device. 19. A method for charging, retaining, and cooling a mobile device in a vehicle, the method comprising:
receiving, by a tray, the mobile device, the tray having a plurality of apertures; wirelessly charging, by a wireless charger coupled to the tray, the mobile device; and drawing air, by a suction device, through the plurality of apertures of the tray to create a suction force for reducing lateral movement of the mobile device and cool the mobile device. 20. The method of claim 19, further comprising controlling, by an electronic control unit (ECU) an operation of the wireless charger or the suction device based on sensor data received from a sensor configured to detect a presence of the mobile device or based on input data received from a switch configured to receive an input from a user. | 2,800 |
349,382 | 16,806,999 | 2,895 | A device includes a converged input/output controller that includes a physical target storage media controller, a physical network interface controller and a gateway between the storage media controller and the network interface controller, wherein gateway provides a direct connection for storage traffic and network traffic between the storage media controller and the network interface controller. | 1. A converged controller for interfacing a set of sources and a set of targets with credit-based flow control, the controller comprising:
a plurality of source-oriented queues, each source-oriented queue connected to a different source of the set of sources; a plurality of target-oriented queues, each target-oriented queue connected to a different target of the set of targets and configured with a number of target access credits; and a multiplexer for selectively coupling a source-oriented queue of the plurality of source-oriented queues to at least one target-oriented queue of the plurality of target-oriented queues, wherein the coupling enables a number of data accesses between a source connected to the source-oriented queue and a subset of the set of targets connected to the at least one target-oriented queue according to the credit-based flow control; wherein the credit-based flow control limits the number of data accesses according to a number of credits allocated to the source connected to the source-oriented queue; and wherein the number of credits is computed from the number of target access credits of the at least one target-oriented queue. 2. The controller of claim 1, wherein the number of credits allocated to the source connected to the source-oriented queue is less than or equal to a depth of the source-oriented queue. 3. The controller of claim 2, wherein the depth of each of the plurality of source-oriented queues is less than or equal to a total depth of all the plurality of target-oriented queues. 4. The controller of claim 3, wherein at least one of the set of targets is a direct connected data storage. 5. The controller of claim 3, wherein at least one of the set of sources is an ethernet device. 6. The controller of claim 1, wherein the number of credits allocated to the source connected to the source-oriented queue is based at least in part on a size of command buffers of the subset of targets. 7. The controller of claim 3, wherein each of the plurality of target-oriented queues are sized according to a size of a command buffer of a connected target. 8. The controller of claim 1, wherein credits are allocated to the source in response a data transfer request from the source. 9. The controller of claim 1, further comprising a physical storage media controller, a physical network interface controller and a direct connection therebetween for performing data accesses between the source connected to the source-oriented queue and the subset of targets connected to the at least one target-oriented queue. 10. A method for source-oriented credit-based scheduling of data flow :
providing a set of target access credits to a plurality of target-oriented queues for accessing target resources; mapping with a multiplexer a source-oriented queue of a plurality of source-oriented queues to a portion of the plurality of target-oriented queues; providing a set of source access credits for the source-oriented queue of the plurality of source-oriented queues responsive to a request from at least one of a plurality of source resources connected to the plurality of source-oriented queues to access the target resources; and limiting a maximum number of source access credits for the source-oriented queue of the plurality of source-oriented queues based on a total count of target access credits provided to the portion of the plurality of target-oriented queues. 11. The method of claim 10, wherein providing the set of target access credits further comprises limiting the set of target access credits to a size that is less than or equal to a total depth of the plurality of target-oriented queues. 12. The method of claim 10, wherein at least one of the target resources is a direct connected data storage. 13. The method of claim 10, wherein at least one of the plurality of source resources is an ethernet device. 14. The method of claim 10, wherein limiting the maximum number of source access credits further comprises sizing a depth of the source-oriented queue to the maximum number of source access credits. 15. A storage control system comprising:
a plurality of source-oriented queues that each provide access credits to network-remote sources requesting access to storage resources controlled by a physical storage controller portion of a converged network-storage controller, wherein each of the network-remote sources is a distinct instance of the converged network-storage controller; a plurality of target-oriented queues, wherein each target-oriented queue controls access to a local, physical storage resource by limiting a count of target access credits permitted for each local physical storage resource; and a multiplexer for mapping the plurality of source-oriented queues to the plurality of target-oriented queues, wherein a maximum number of access credits permitted for each of the plurality of source-oriented queues is limited by the multiplexer to no more than a total number of target access credits available from the plurality of target-oriented queues with which each source queue of the plurality of source-oriented queues is multiplexed. 16. The system of claim 15, wherein access bandwidth and access latency are guaranteed independent of a number of a local, physical storage resources. 17. The system of claim 15, wherein access bandwidth and access latency are guaranteed independent of a number of converged network-storage controllers. 18. A method of guaranteeing predictable access latency in a network-distributed storage system, comprising:
multiplexing a plurality of source-oriented queues to a plurality of target-oriented queues; and limiting a maximum size of each of the plurality of source-oriented queues to no more than a combined size of the plurality of target-oriented queues with which the plurality of source-oriented queues are multiplexed. 19. The method of claim 18, further comprising allocating credits to a source coupled to a multiplexed source-oriented queue in response a data transfer request from the source. 20. The method of claim 18, further comprising limiting a count of credits allocated to a source coupled to at least one of the plurality of source-oriented queues to the maximum size of each of the plurality of source-oriented queues for a credit-based flow control of data transfer. | A device includes a converged input/output controller that includes a physical target storage media controller, a physical network interface controller and a gateway between the storage media controller and the network interface controller, wherein gateway provides a direct connection for storage traffic and network traffic between the storage media controller and the network interface controller.1. A converged controller for interfacing a set of sources and a set of targets with credit-based flow control, the controller comprising:
a plurality of source-oriented queues, each source-oriented queue connected to a different source of the set of sources; a plurality of target-oriented queues, each target-oriented queue connected to a different target of the set of targets and configured with a number of target access credits; and a multiplexer for selectively coupling a source-oriented queue of the plurality of source-oriented queues to at least one target-oriented queue of the plurality of target-oriented queues, wherein the coupling enables a number of data accesses between a source connected to the source-oriented queue and a subset of the set of targets connected to the at least one target-oriented queue according to the credit-based flow control; wherein the credit-based flow control limits the number of data accesses according to a number of credits allocated to the source connected to the source-oriented queue; and wherein the number of credits is computed from the number of target access credits of the at least one target-oriented queue. 2. The controller of claim 1, wherein the number of credits allocated to the source connected to the source-oriented queue is less than or equal to a depth of the source-oriented queue. 3. The controller of claim 2, wherein the depth of each of the plurality of source-oriented queues is less than or equal to a total depth of all the plurality of target-oriented queues. 4. The controller of claim 3, wherein at least one of the set of targets is a direct connected data storage. 5. The controller of claim 3, wherein at least one of the set of sources is an ethernet device. 6. The controller of claim 1, wherein the number of credits allocated to the source connected to the source-oriented queue is based at least in part on a size of command buffers of the subset of targets. 7. The controller of claim 3, wherein each of the plurality of target-oriented queues are sized according to a size of a command buffer of a connected target. 8. The controller of claim 1, wherein credits are allocated to the source in response a data transfer request from the source. 9. The controller of claim 1, further comprising a physical storage media controller, a physical network interface controller and a direct connection therebetween for performing data accesses between the source connected to the source-oriented queue and the subset of targets connected to the at least one target-oriented queue. 10. A method for source-oriented credit-based scheduling of data flow :
providing a set of target access credits to a plurality of target-oriented queues for accessing target resources; mapping with a multiplexer a source-oriented queue of a plurality of source-oriented queues to a portion of the plurality of target-oriented queues; providing a set of source access credits for the source-oriented queue of the plurality of source-oriented queues responsive to a request from at least one of a plurality of source resources connected to the plurality of source-oriented queues to access the target resources; and limiting a maximum number of source access credits for the source-oriented queue of the plurality of source-oriented queues based on a total count of target access credits provided to the portion of the plurality of target-oriented queues. 11. The method of claim 10, wherein providing the set of target access credits further comprises limiting the set of target access credits to a size that is less than or equal to a total depth of the plurality of target-oriented queues. 12. The method of claim 10, wherein at least one of the target resources is a direct connected data storage. 13. The method of claim 10, wherein at least one of the plurality of source resources is an ethernet device. 14. The method of claim 10, wherein limiting the maximum number of source access credits further comprises sizing a depth of the source-oriented queue to the maximum number of source access credits. 15. A storage control system comprising:
a plurality of source-oriented queues that each provide access credits to network-remote sources requesting access to storage resources controlled by a physical storage controller portion of a converged network-storage controller, wherein each of the network-remote sources is a distinct instance of the converged network-storage controller; a plurality of target-oriented queues, wherein each target-oriented queue controls access to a local, physical storage resource by limiting a count of target access credits permitted for each local physical storage resource; and a multiplexer for mapping the plurality of source-oriented queues to the plurality of target-oriented queues, wherein a maximum number of access credits permitted for each of the plurality of source-oriented queues is limited by the multiplexer to no more than a total number of target access credits available from the plurality of target-oriented queues with which each source queue of the plurality of source-oriented queues is multiplexed. 16. The system of claim 15, wherein access bandwidth and access latency are guaranteed independent of a number of a local, physical storage resources. 17. The system of claim 15, wherein access bandwidth and access latency are guaranteed independent of a number of converged network-storage controllers. 18. A method of guaranteeing predictable access latency in a network-distributed storage system, comprising:
multiplexing a plurality of source-oriented queues to a plurality of target-oriented queues; and limiting a maximum size of each of the plurality of source-oriented queues to no more than a combined size of the plurality of target-oriented queues with which the plurality of source-oriented queues are multiplexed. 19. The method of claim 18, further comprising allocating credits to a source coupled to a multiplexed source-oriented queue in response a data transfer request from the source. 20. The method of claim 18, further comprising limiting a count of credits allocated to a source coupled to at least one of the plurality of source-oriented queues to the maximum size of each of the plurality of source-oriented queues for a credit-based flow control of data transfer. | 2,800 |
349,383 | 16,807,005 | 2,849 | A device includes a converged input/output controller that includes a physical target storage media controller, a physical network interface controller and a gateway between the storage media controller and the network interface controller, wherein gateway provides a direct connection for storage traffic and network traffic between the storage media controller and the network interface controller. | 1. A converged controller for interfacing a set of sources and a set of targets with credit-based flow control, the controller comprising:
a plurality of source-oriented queues, each source-oriented queue connected to a different source of the set of sources; a plurality of target-oriented queues, each target-oriented queue connected to a different target of the set of targets and configured with a number of target access credits; and a multiplexer for selectively coupling a source-oriented queue of the plurality of source-oriented queues to at least one target-oriented queue of the plurality of target-oriented queues, wherein the coupling enables a number of data accesses between a source connected to the source-oriented queue and a subset of the set of targets connected to the at least one target-oriented queue according to the credit-based flow control; wherein the credit-based flow control limits the number of data accesses according to a number of credits allocated to the source connected to the source-oriented queue; and wherein the number of credits is computed from the number of target access credits of the at least one target-oriented queue. 2. The controller of claim 1, wherein the number of credits allocated to the source connected to the source-oriented queue is less than or equal to a depth of the source-oriented queue. 3. The controller of claim 2, wherein the depth of each of the plurality of source-oriented queues is less than or equal to a total depth of all the plurality of target-oriented queues. 4. The controller of claim 3, wherein at least one of the set of targets is a direct connected data storage. 5. The controller of claim 3, wherein at least one of the set of sources is an ethernet device. 6. The controller of claim 1, wherein the number of credits allocated to the source connected to the source-oriented queue is based at least in part on a size of command buffers of the subset of targets. 7. The controller of claim 3, wherein each of the plurality of target-oriented queues are sized according to a size of a command buffer of a connected target. 8. The controller of claim 1, wherein credits are allocated to the source in response a data transfer request from the source. 9. The controller of claim 1, further comprising a physical storage media controller, a physical network interface controller and a direct connection therebetween for performing data accesses between the source connected to the source-oriented queue and the subset of targets connected to the at least one target-oriented queue. 10. A method for source-oriented credit-based scheduling of data flow :
providing a set of target access credits to a plurality of target-oriented queues for accessing target resources; mapping with a multiplexer a source-oriented queue of a plurality of source-oriented queues to a portion of the plurality of target-oriented queues; providing a set of source access credits for the source-oriented queue of the plurality of source-oriented queues responsive to a request from at least one of a plurality of source resources connected to the plurality of source-oriented queues to access the target resources; and limiting a maximum number of source access credits for the source-oriented queue of the plurality of source-oriented queues based on a total count of target access credits provided to the portion of the plurality of target-oriented queues. 11. The method of claim 10, wherein providing the set of target access credits further comprises limiting the set of target access credits to a size that is less than or equal to a total depth of the plurality of target-oriented queues. 12. The method of claim 10, wherein at least one of the target resources is a direct connected data storage. 13. The method of claim 10, wherein at least one of the plurality of source resources is an ethernet device. 14. The method of claim 10, wherein limiting the maximum number of source access credits further comprises sizing a depth of the source-oriented queue to the maximum number of source access credits. 15. A storage control system comprising:
a plurality of source-oriented queues that each provide access credits to network-remote sources requesting access to storage resources controlled by a physical storage controller portion of a converged network-storage controller, wherein each of the network-remote sources is a distinct instance of the converged network-storage controller; a plurality of target-oriented queues, wherein each target-oriented queue controls access to a local, physical storage resource by limiting a count of target access credits permitted for each local physical storage resource; and a multiplexer for mapping the plurality of source-oriented queues to the plurality of target-oriented queues, wherein a maximum number of access credits permitted for each of the plurality of source-oriented queues is limited by the multiplexer to no more than a total number of target access credits available from the plurality of target-oriented queues with which each source queue of the plurality of source-oriented queues is multiplexed. 16. The system of claim 15, wherein access bandwidth and access latency are guaranteed independent of a number of a local, physical storage resources. 17. The system of claim 15, wherein access bandwidth and access latency are guaranteed independent of a number of converged network-storage controllers. 18. A method of guaranteeing predictable access latency in a network-distributed storage system, comprising:
multiplexing a plurality of source-oriented queues to a plurality of target-oriented queues; and limiting a maximum size of each of the plurality of source-oriented queues to no more than a combined size of the plurality of target-oriented queues with which the plurality of source-oriented queues are multiplexed. 19. The method of claim 18, further comprising allocating credits to a source coupled to a multiplexed source-oriented queue in response a data transfer request from the source. 20. The method of claim 18, further comprising limiting a count of credits allocated to a source coupled to at least one of the plurality of source-oriented queues to the maximum size of each of the plurality of source-oriented queues for a credit-based flow control of data transfer. | A device includes a converged input/output controller that includes a physical target storage media controller, a physical network interface controller and a gateway between the storage media controller and the network interface controller, wherein gateway provides a direct connection for storage traffic and network traffic between the storage media controller and the network interface controller.1. A converged controller for interfacing a set of sources and a set of targets with credit-based flow control, the controller comprising:
a plurality of source-oriented queues, each source-oriented queue connected to a different source of the set of sources; a plurality of target-oriented queues, each target-oriented queue connected to a different target of the set of targets and configured with a number of target access credits; and a multiplexer for selectively coupling a source-oriented queue of the plurality of source-oriented queues to at least one target-oriented queue of the plurality of target-oriented queues, wherein the coupling enables a number of data accesses between a source connected to the source-oriented queue and a subset of the set of targets connected to the at least one target-oriented queue according to the credit-based flow control; wherein the credit-based flow control limits the number of data accesses according to a number of credits allocated to the source connected to the source-oriented queue; and wherein the number of credits is computed from the number of target access credits of the at least one target-oriented queue. 2. The controller of claim 1, wherein the number of credits allocated to the source connected to the source-oriented queue is less than or equal to a depth of the source-oriented queue. 3. The controller of claim 2, wherein the depth of each of the plurality of source-oriented queues is less than or equal to a total depth of all the plurality of target-oriented queues. 4. The controller of claim 3, wherein at least one of the set of targets is a direct connected data storage. 5. The controller of claim 3, wherein at least one of the set of sources is an ethernet device. 6. The controller of claim 1, wherein the number of credits allocated to the source connected to the source-oriented queue is based at least in part on a size of command buffers of the subset of targets. 7. The controller of claim 3, wherein each of the plurality of target-oriented queues are sized according to a size of a command buffer of a connected target. 8. The controller of claim 1, wherein credits are allocated to the source in response a data transfer request from the source. 9. The controller of claim 1, further comprising a physical storage media controller, a physical network interface controller and a direct connection therebetween for performing data accesses between the source connected to the source-oriented queue and the subset of targets connected to the at least one target-oriented queue. 10. A method for source-oriented credit-based scheduling of data flow :
providing a set of target access credits to a plurality of target-oriented queues for accessing target resources; mapping with a multiplexer a source-oriented queue of a plurality of source-oriented queues to a portion of the plurality of target-oriented queues; providing a set of source access credits for the source-oriented queue of the plurality of source-oriented queues responsive to a request from at least one of a plurality of source resources connected to the plurality of source-oriented queues to access the target resources; and limiting a maximum number of source access credits for the source-oriented queue of the plurality of source-oriented queues based on a total count of target access credits provided to the portion of the plurality of target-oriented queues. 11. The method of claim 10, wherein providing the set of target access credits further comprises limiting the set of target access credits to a size that is less than or equal to a total depth of the plurality of target-oriented queues. 12. The method of claim 10, wherein at least one of the target resources is a direct connected data storage. 13. The method of claim 10, wherein at least one of the plurality of source resources is an ethernet device. 14. The method of claim 10, wherein limiting the maximum number of source access credits further comprises sizing a depth of the source-oriented queue to the maximum number of source access credits. 15. A storage control system comprising:
a plurality of source-oriented queues that each provide access credits to network-remote sources requesting access to storage resources controlled by a physical storage controller portion of a converged network-storage controller, wherein each of the network-remote sources is a distinct instance of the converged network-storage controller; a plurality of target-oriented queues, wherein each target-oriented queue controls access to a local, physical storage resource by limiting a count of target access credits permitted for each local physical storage resource; and a multiplexer for mapping the plurality of source-oriented queues to the plurality of target-oriented queues, wherein a maximum number of access credits permitted for each of the plurality of source-oriented queues is limited by the multiplexer to no more than a total number of target access credits available from the plurality of target-oriented queues with which each source queue of the plurality of source-oriented queues is multiplexed. 16. The system of claim 15, wherein access bandwidth and access latency are guaranteed independent of a number of a local, physical storage resources. 17. The system of claim 15, wherein access bandwidth and access latency are guaranteed independent of a number of converged network-storage controllers. 18. A method of guaranteeing predictable access latency in a network-distributed storage system, comprising:
multiplexing a plurality of source-oriented queues to a plurality of target-oriented queues; and limiting a maximum size of each of the plurality of source-oriented queues to no more than a combined size of the plurality of target-oriented queues with which the plurality of source-oriented queues are multiplexed. 19. The method of claim 18, further comprising allocating credits to a source coupled to a multiplexed source-oriented queue in response a data transfer request from the source. 20. The method of claim 18, further comprising limiting a count of credits allocated to a source coupled to at least one of the plurality of source-oriented queues to the maximum size of each of the plurality of source-oriented queues for a credit-based flow control of data transfer. | 2,800 |
349,384 | 16,806,958 | 2,849 | Various methods and systems are provided for artifact reduction with resolution preservation. In one example, a method includes obtaining projection data of an imaging subject, identifying a metal-containing region in the projection data, interpolating the metal-containing region to generate interpolated projection data, extracting high frequency content information from the projection data in the metal-containing region, adding the extracted high frequency content information to the interpolated projection data to generate adjusted projection data, and reconstructing one or more diagnostic images from the adjusted projection data. | 1. A method, comprising:
obtaining projection data of an imaging subject; identifying a metal-containing region in the projection data; interpolating the metal-containing region to generate interpolated projection data; extracting high frequency content information from the projection data in the metal-containing region; adding the extracted high frequency content information to the interpolated projection data to generate adjusted projection data; and reconstructing one or more diagnostic images from the adjusted projection data. 2. The method of claim 1, wherein adding the extracted high frequency content information to the interpolated projection data comprises conditioning the extracted high frequency content information and adding the conditioned high frequency content information to the interpolated projection data. 3. The method of claim 2, wherein conditioning the extracted high frequency content information comprises weighting and/or thresholding the high frequency content information. 4. The method of claim 2, wherein conditioning the extracted high frequency content information comprises conditioning the high frequency content information via a deep learning model. 5. The method of claim 1, wherein extracting the high frequency content information comprises segmenting the metal-containing region of the projection data, transforming the segmented projection data to the frequency domain, and applying a filter to the segmented projection data in the frequency domain to extract the high frequency content information. 6. The method of claim 5, wherein the filter is a low-pass filter and wherein applying the low-pass filter to the segmented projection data to extract the high frequency content information comprises filtering out the high frequency content information via the low-pass filter and subtracting the filtered segmented projection data from the segmented projection data to extract the high frequency content information. 7. The method of claim 5, wherein the low-pass filter has a cut-off in a middle of the frequency content of the projection data in the frequency domain. 8. The method of claim 1, wherein extracting the high frequency content information comprises extracting the high frequency content information via a deep learning model. 9. The method of claim 1, wherein identifying the metal-containing region in the projection data comprises reconstructing one or more initial images from the projection data, identifying one or more pixels of the one or more initial images having an intensity greater than a threshold intensity, and mapping the identified one or more pixels back to the projection data. 10. A method, comprising:
removing projection data from a metal-containing region of an original projection dataset, including removing all frequency content of the projection data in the metal-containing region; replacing the removed projection data in the metal-containing region with interpolated projection data; adding back a subset of the frequency content of the removed projection data to the interpolated projection data to generate an adjusted projection dataset; and reconstructing one or more images from the adjusted projection dataset. 11. The method of claim 10, wherein the subset of the frequency content comprises an upper portion of the frequency content, and further comprising excluding at least some of a lower portion of the frequency content from the adjusted projection dataset. 12. The method of claim 10, further comprising conditioning the subset of the frequency content before adding the subset of the frequency content back to the interpolated projection data. 13. The method of claim 12, wherein conditioning the subset of the frequency content comprises conditioning the subset of the frequency content via thresholding and/or morphological operations. 14. The method of claim 12, wherein conditioning the subset of the frequency content comprises conditioning the subset of the frequency content via a deep learning model. 15. An image processing system, comprising:
a processor; and a non-transitory memory storing instructions executable by the processor to:
interpolate a metal-containing region of a projection dataset of an imaging subject to generate an interpolated projection dataset;
extract high frequency content information from the projection dataset in the metal-containing region;
condition the high frequency content information;
add the conditioned high frequency content information to the interpolated projection dataset to generate an adjusted projection dataset; and
reconstruct one or more diagnostic images from the adjusted projection dataset. 16. The image processing system of claim 15, wherein the non-transitory memory stores one or more deep learning models configured to extract the high frequency content information from the projection dataset in the metal-containing region and/or condition the high frequency content information. 17. The image processing system of claim 15, wherein the high frequency content comprises a subset of all frequency content of the projection dataset in the metal-containing region. 18. The image processing system of claim 15, wherein the instructions to condition the high frequency content information comprise instructions to weight and/or threshold the high frequency content information. 19. The image processing system of claim 15, wherein the instructions are executable to identify the metal-containing region of the projection dataset by reconstructing an initial image from the projection dataset, generating a metal mask that includes each metal-containing pixel of the initial image, and map the metal mask back to the projection dataset. 20. The image processing system of claim 15, wherein the projection dataset is acquired by a computed tomography (CT) imaging system. | Various methods and systems are provided for artifact reduction with resolution preservation. In one example, a method includes obtaining projection data of an imaging subject, identifying a metal-containing region in the projection data, interpolating the metal-containing region to generate interpolated projection data, extracting high frequency content information from the projection data in the metal-containing region, adding the extracted high frequency content information to the interpolated projection data to generate adjusted projection data, and reconstructing one or more diagnostic images from the adjusted projection data.1. A method, comprising:
obtaining projection data of an imaging subject; identifying a metal-containing region in the projection data; interpolating the metal-containing region to generate interpolated projection data; extracting high frequency content information from the projection data in the metal-containing region; adding the extracted high frequency content information to the interpolated projection data to generate adjusted projection data; and reconstructing one or more diagnostic images from the adjusted projection data. 2. The method of claim 1, wherein adding the extracted high frequency content information to the interpolated projection data comprises conditioning the extracted high frequency content information and adding the conditioned high frequency content information to the interpolated projection data. 3. The method of claim 2, wherein conditioning the extracted high frequency content information comprises weighting and/or thresholding the high frequency content information. 4. The method of claim 2, wherein conditioning the extracted high frequency content information comprises conditioning the high frequency content information via a deep learning model. 5. The method of claim 1, wherein extracting the high frequency content information comprises segmenting the metal-containing region of the projection data, transforming the segmented projection data to the frequency domain, and applying a filter to the segmented projection data in the frequency domain to extract the high frequency content information. 6. The method of claim 5, wherein the filter is a low-pass filter and wherein applying the low-pass filter to the segmented projection data to extract the high frequency content information comprises filtering out the high frequency content information via the low-pass filter and subtracting the filtered segmented projection data from the segmented projection data to extract the high frequency content information. 7. The method of claim 5, wherein the low-pass filter has a cut-off in a middle of the frequency content of the projection data in the frequency domain. 8. The method of claim 1, wherein extracting the high frequency content information comprises extracting the high frequency content information via a deep learning model. 9. The method of claim 1, wherein identifying the metal-containing region in the projection data comprises reconstructing one or more initial images from the projection data, identifying one or more pixels of the one or more initial images having an intensity greater than a threshold intensity, and mapping the identified one or more pixels back to the projection data. 10. A method, comprising:
removing projection data from a metal-containing region of an original projection dataset, including removing all frequency content of the projection data in the metal-containing region; replacing the removed projection data in the metal-containing region with interpolated projection data; adding back a subset of the frequency content of the removed projection data to the interpolated projection data to generate an adjusted projection dataset; and reconstructing one or more images from the adjusted projection dataset. 11. The method of claim 10, wherein the subset of the frequency content comprises an upper portion of the frequency content, and further comprising excluding at least some of a lower portion of the frequency content from the adjusted projection dataset. 12. The method of claim 10, further comprising conditioning the subset of the frequency content before adding the subset of the frequency content back to the interpolated projection data. 13. The method of claim 12, wherein conditioning the subset of the frequency content comprises conditioning the subset of the frequency content via thresholding and/or morphological operations. 14. The method of claim 12, wherein conditioning the subset of the frequency content comprises conditioning the subset of the frequency content via a deep learning model. 15. An image processing system, comprising:
a processor; and a non-transitory memory storing instructions executable by the processor to:
interpolate a metal-containing region of a projection dataset of an imaging subject to generate an interpolated projection dataset;
extract high frequency content information from the projection dataset in the metal-containing region;
condition the high frequency content information;
add the conditioned high frequency content information to the interpolated projection dataset to generate an adjusted projection dataset; and
reconstruct one or more diagnostic images from the adjusted projection dataset. 16. The image processing system of claim 15, wherein the non-transitory memory stores one or more deep learning models configured to extract the high frequency content information from the projection dataset in the metal-containing region and/or condition the high frequency content information. 17. The image processing system of claim 15, wherein the high frequency content comprises a subset of all frequency content of the projection dataset in the metal-containing region. 18. The image processing system of claim 15, wherein the instructions to condition the high frequency content information comprise instructions to weight and/or threshold the high frequency content information. 19. The image processing system of claim 15, wherein the instructions are executable to identify the metal-containing region of the projection dataset by reconstructing an initial image from the projection dataset, generating a metal mask that includes each metal-containing pixel of the initial image, and map the metal mask back to the projection dataset. 20. The image processing system of claim 15, wherein the projection dataset is acquired by a computed tomography (CT) imaging system. | 2,800 |
349,385 | 16,806,952 | 2,845 | An antenna system capable of operating among all LTE bands, and also capable of operation among all remote side cellular applications, such as GSM, AMPS, GPRS, CDMA, WCDMA, UMTS, and HSPA among others. The antenna system provides a low cost alternative to active-tunable antennas suggested in the prior art for the same multi-platform objective. | 1. An antenna comprising:
a substrate having six surfaces, the six surfaces comprising a first surface, a second surface perpendicular to the first surface, and a third surface perpendicular to the second surface; a feed conductor on the first surface, the feed conductor positioned between a first conductor plate on the first surface and a second conductor plate on the first surface; a ground conductor on the first surface, the ground conductor positioned between the feed conductor and the second conductor plate; a first vertical conductor plate on a right terminus of the second surface; a second vertical conductor plate on a left terminus of the second surface; a conductor on the second surface, the conductor positioned between the first vertical conductor plate and the second vertical conductor plate on the second surface, and the conductor being separated from both the first vertical conductor plate and the second vertical conductor plate on the second surface; a first top plate on a right terminus of the third surface; a second top plate on a left terminus of the third surface; and a loop conductor on the third surface, the loop conductor positioned between the first top plate and the second top plate; wherein the antenna is a ceramic antenna, and wherein the antenna is operable among all Long Term Evolution bands. 2. The antenna of claim 1, wherein a high frequency element comprises the first vertical conductor plate, and a low frequency element comprises the second vertical conductor plate. 3. The antenna of claim 1, further comprising a conductor element extending horizontally from the first vertical conductor plate. 4. The antenna of claim 1, wherein the conductor on the second surface is a second loop conductor. 5. The antenna of claim 1, wherein the loop conductor is separated from both the first top conductor plate and the second top conductor plate on the third surface. 6. The antenna of claim 1, wherein the substrate comprises a fourth surface and a fifth surface, the fourth surface does not contain any trace elements thereon, and the fifth surfaceis a mirror image of the fourth surface. 7. The antenna of claim 6, wherein the substrate comprises a sixth surface perpendicular to the first surface, and the plurality of trace elements comprises a plurality of front pads on the sixth surface. 8. The antenna of claim 1, wherein the antenna has a size of approximately 40 millimeters by 6 millimeters by 5 millimeters. 9. An antenna system comprising:
the antenna of claim 1; and a circuit board on which the antenna is surface mounted, the circuit board comprising:
a first anchor pad coupled to the first conductor plate;
a second anchor pad coupled to the second conductor plate;
a feed pad coupled to the feed conductor;
a ground pad coupled to the ground conductor; and
a feed line coupled to the feed pad. 10. The antenna system of claim 9, wherein the printed circuit board further comprises a ground trace, wherein a matching component extends between the ground trace and the feed line. 11. An antenna comprising:
a substrate having six surfaces, the six surfaces comprising a first surface, a second surface, and a third surface; and an antenna trace on the substrate and comprising a plurality of trace elements, the plurality of trace elements comprising:
a feed conductor on the first surface, the feed conductor positioned between a first trace element on the first surface and a second trace element on the first surface;
a third trace element on a right terminus of the second surface;
a fourth trace element on a left terminus of the second surface;
a fifth trace elementon the second surface, the fifth trace element positioned between the third trace element and the fourth trace element, and the fifth trace element being separated from both the third trace element and the fourth trace element on the second surface;
a sixth trace element on a right terminus of the third surface;
a seventh trace element on a left terminus of the third surface; and
a U-shaped conductor on the third surface, the U-shaped conductor positioned between the sixth trace element and the seventh trace element. 12. The antenna of claim 11, wherein a high frequency element comprises the third trace element, and a low frequency element comprises the fourth trace element. 13. The antenna of claim 11, wherein the antenna is a ceramic antenna. 14. The antenna of claim 11, wherein the antenna is operable among all Long Term Evolution bands. 15. The antenna of claim 11, wherein the second surface is perpendicular to the first surface, and the third surface is perpendicular to the second surface. 16. The antenna of claim 11, wherein the substrate comprises a fourth surface and a fifth surface, the fourth surface does not contain any trace elements thereon, and the fifth surface is a mirror image of the fourth surface. 17. The antenna of claim 16, wherein the substrate comprises a sixth surface, and the plurality of trace elements comprises a plurality of pads on the sixth surface. 18. The antenna of claim 11, wherein the plurality of trace elements comprise a ground conductor on the first surface, the ground conductor positioned between the feed conductor and the second trace element. 19. An antenna system comprising:
the antenna of claim 18; and a circuit board on which the antenna is positioned, the circuit board comprising:
a first anchor pad coupled to the first trace element;
a second anchor pad coupled to the second trace element;
a feed pad coupled to the feed conductor;
a ground pad coupled to the ground conductor; and
a feed line coupled to the feed pad. 20. The antenna system of claim 19, wherein the printed circuit board further comprises a ground trace, wherein a matching component extends between the ground trace and the feed line. 21. An antenna comprising:
a substrate having six surfaces, the six surfaces comprising a first surface, a second surface perpendicular to the first surface, and a third surface perpendicular to the second surface, the substrate having a first edge between the first surface and the second surface, and a second edge between the second surface and the third surface; and a plurality of trace elements supported by the substrate, the plurality of trace elements comprising:
a feed conductor on the first surface, the feed conductor positioned between a first trace element on the first surface and a second trace element on the first surface;
a third trace element on the second surface adjacent a third edge of the substrate, the third edge of the substrate extending between the first edge of the substrate and the second edge of the substrate;
a fourth trace element on the second surface adjacent a fourth edge of the substrate, the fourth edge of the substrate extending between the first edge of the substrate and the second edge of the substrate;
a fifth trace elementon the second surface, the fifth trace element positioned between the third trace element and the fourth trace element, the fifth trace element being separated from both the third trace element and the fourth trace element on the second surface;
a sixth trace element on the third surface adjacent a fifth edge of the substrate, the fifth edge of the substrate perpendicular to the second edge of the substrate;
a seventh trace element on the third surface adjacent a sixth edge of the substrate, the sixth edge of the substrate perpendicular to the second edge of the substrate; and
a meandering trace element on the third surface, the meandering trace element positioned between the sixth trace element and the seventh trace element. 22. The antenna of claim 21, wherein a high frequency elementcomprises the third trace element, and a low frequency element comprises the fourth trace element. 23. The antenna of claim 21, wherein the antenna is a ceramic antenna. 24. The antenna of claim 21, wherein the antenna is operable among all Long Term Evolution bands. 25. The antenna of claim 21, wherein the meandering trace element includes first and second sections extending parallel to the fifth and sixth edges of the substrate and a third section extending between the first and second sections of the meandering trace element and parallel to the second edge of the substrate. 26. The antenna of claim 21, wherein the plurality of trace elements comprise a ground conductor on the first surface, the ground conductor positioned between the feed conductor and the second trace element. 27. The antenna of claim 21, wherein the substrate comprises a fourth surface and a fifth surface, the fourth surface does not contain any trace elements thereon, and the fifth surface is a mirror image of the fourth surface. 28. The antenna of claim 27, wherein the substrate comprises a sixth surface, and the plurality of trace elements comprises a plurality of pads on the sixth surface. 29. An antenna system comprising:
the antenna of claim 21; and a circuit board on which the antenna is positioned, the circuit board comprising:
a first anchor pad coupled to the first conductor plate;
a second anchor pad coupled to the second conductor plate;
a feed pad coupled to the feed conductor;
a ground pad coupled to the ground conductor; and
a feed line coupled to the feed pad. 30. The antenna system of claim 29, wherein the plurality of trace elements comprise a ground conductor on the first surface, the ground conductor positioned between the feed conductor and the second trace element, and wherein the circuit board comprises:
a ground pad coupled to the feed conductor; and a ground trace, wherein a matching component extends between the ground trace and the feed line. | An antenna system capable of operating among all LTE bands, and also capable of operation among all remote side cellular applications, such as GSM, AMPS, GPRS, CDMA, WCDMA, UMTS, and HSPA among others. The antenna system provides a low cost alternative to active-tunable antennas suggested in the prior art for the same multi-platform objective.1. An antenna comprising:
a substrate having six surfaces, the six surfaces comprising a first surface, a second surface perpendicular to the first surface, and a third surface perpendicular to the second surface; a feed conductor on the first surface, the feed conductor positioned between a first conductor plate on the first surface and a second conductor plate on the first surface; a ground conductor on the first surface, the ground conductor positioned between the feed conductor and the second conductor plate; a first vertical conductor plate on a right terminus of the second surface; a second vertical conductor plate on a left terminus of the second surface; a conductor on the second surface, the conductor positioned between the first vertical conductor plate and the second vertical conductor plate on the second surface, and the conductor being separated from both the first vertical conductor plate and the second vertical conductor plate on the second surface; a first top plate on a right terminus of the third surface; a second top plate on a left terminus of the third surface; and a loop conductor on the third surface, the loop conductor positioned between the first top plate and the second top plate; wherein the antenna is a ceramic antenna, and wherein the antenna is operable among all Long Term Evolution bands. 2. The antenna of claim 1, wherein a high frequency element comprises the first vertical conductor plate, and a low frequency element comprises the second vertical conductor plate. 3. The antenna of claim 1, further comprising a conductor element extending horizontally from the first vertical conductor plate. 4. The antenna of claim 1, wherein the conductor on the second surface is a second loop conductor. 5. The antenna of claim 1, wherein the loop conductor is separated from both the first top conductor plate and the second top conductor plate on the third surface. 6. The antenna of claim 1, wherein the substrate comprises a fourth surface and a fifth surface, the fourth surface does not contain any trace elements thereon, and the fifth surfaceis a mirror image of the fourth surface. 7. The antenna of claim 6, wherein the substrate comprises a sixth surface perpendicular to the first surface, and the plurality of trace elements comprises a plurality of front pads on the sixth surface. 8. The antenna of claim 1, wherein the antenna has a size of approximately 40 millimeters by 6 millimeters by 5 millimeters. 9. An antenna system comprising:
the antenna of claim 1; and a circuit board on which the antenna is surface mounted, the circuit board comprising:
a first anchor pad coupled to the first conductor plate;
a second anchor pad coupled to the second conductor plate;
a feed pad coupled to the feed conductor;
a ground pad coupled to the ground conductor; and
a feed line coupled to the feed pad. 10. The antenna system of claim 9, wherein the printed circuit board further comprises a ground trace, wherein a matching component extends between the ground trace and the feed line. 11. An antenna comprising:
a substrate having six surfaces, the six surfaces comprising a first surface, a second surface, and a third surface; and an antenna trace on the substrate and comprising a plurality of trace elements, the plurality of trace elements comprising:
a feed conductor on the first surface, the feed conductor positioned between a first trace element on the first surface and a second trace element on the first surface;
a third trace element on a right terminus of the second surface;
a fourth trace element on a left terminus of the second surface;
a fifth trace elementon the second surface, the fifth trace element positioned between the third trace element and the fourth trace element, and the fifth trace element being separated from both the third trace element and the fourth trace element on the second surface;
a sixth trace element on a right terminus of the third surface;
a seventh trace element on a left terminus of the third surface; and
a U-shaped conductor on the third surface, the U-shaped conductor positioned between the sixth trace element and the seventh trace element. 12. The antenna of claim 11, wherein a high frequency element comprises the third trace element, and a low frequency element comprises the fourth trace element. 13. The antenna of claim 11, wherein the antenna is a ceramic antenna. 14. The antenna of claim 11, wherein the antenna is operable among all Long Term Evolution bands. 15. The antenna of claim 11, wherein the second surface is perpendicular to the first surface, and the third surface is perpendicular to the second surface. 16. The antenna of claim 11, wherein the substrate comprises a fourth surface and a fifth surface, the fourth surface does not contain any trace elements thereon, and the fifth surface is a mirror image of the fourth surface. 17. The antenna of claim 16, wherein the substrate comprises a sixth surface, and the plurality of trace elements comprises a plurality of pads on the sixth surface. 18. The antenna of claim 11, wherein the plurality of trace elements comprise a ground conductor on the first surface, the ground conductor positioned between the feed conductor and the second trace element. 19. An antenna system comprising:
the antenna of claim 18; and a circuit board on which the antenna is positioned, the circuit board comprising:
a first anchor pad coupled to the first trace element;
a second anchor pad coupled to the second trace element;
a feed pad coupled to the feed conductor;
a ground pad coupled to the ground conductor; and
a feed line coupled to the feed pad. 20. The antenna system of claim 19, wherein the printed circuit board further comprises a ground trace, wherein a matching component extends between the ground trace and the feed line. 21. An antenna comprising:
a substrate having six surfaces, the six surfaces comprising a first surface, a second surface perpendicular to the first surface, and a third surface perpendicular to the second surface, the substrate having a first edge between the first surface and the second surface, and a second edge between the second surface and the third surface; and a plurality of trace elements supported by the substrate, the plurality of trace elements comprising:
a feed conductor on the first surface, the feed conductor positioned between a first trace element on the first surface and a second trace element on the first surface;
a third trace element on the second surface adjacent a third edge of the substrate, the third edge of the substrate extending between the first edge of the substrate and the second edge of the substrate;
a fourth trace element on the second surface adjacent a fourth edge of the substrate, the fourth edge of the substrate extending between the first edge of the substrate and the second edge of the substrate;
a fifth trace elementon the second surface, the fifth trace element positioned between the third trace element and the fourth trace element, the fifth trace element being separated from both the third trace element and the fourth trace element on the second surface;
a sixth trace element on the third surface adjacent a fifth edge of the substrate, the fifth edge of the substrate perpendicular to the second edge of the substrate;
a seventh trace element on the third surface adjacent a sixth edge of the substrate, the sixth edge of the substrate perpendicular to the second edge of the substrate; and
a meandering trace element on the third surface, the meandering trace element positioned between the sixth trace element and the seventh trace element. 22. The antenna of claim 21, wherein a high frequency elementcomprises the third trace element, and a low frequency element comprises the fourth trace element. 23. The antenna of claim 21, wherein the antenna is a ceramic antenna. 24. The antenna of claim 21, wherein the antenna is operable among all Long Term Evolution bands. 25. The antenna of claim 21, wherein the meandering trace element includes first and second sections extending parallel to the fifth and sixth edges of the substrate and a third section extending between the first and second sections of the meandering trace element and parallel to the second edge of the substrate. 26. The antenna of claim 21, wherein the plurality of trace elements comprise a ground conductor on the first surface, the ground conductor positioned between the feed conductor and the second trace element. 27. The antenna of claim 21, wherein the substrate comprises a fourth surface and a fifth surface, the fourth surface does not contain any trace elements thereon, and the fifth surface is a mirror image of the fourth surface. 28. The antenna of claim 27, wherein the substrate comprises a sixth surface, and the plurality of trace elements comprises a plurality of pads on the sixth surface. 29. An antenna system comprising:
the antenna of claim 21; and a circuit board on which the antenna is positioned, the circuit board comprising:
a first anchor pad coupled to the first conductor plate;
a second anchor pad coupled to the second conductor plate;
a feed pad coupled to the feed conductor;
a ground pad coupled to the ground conductor; and
a feed line coupled to the feed pad. 30. The antenna system of claim 29, wherein the plurality of trace elements comprise a ground conductor on the first surface, the ground conductor positioned between the feed conductor and the second trace element, and wherein the circuit board comprises:
a ground pad coupled to the feed conductor; and a ground trace, wherein a matching component extends between the ground trace and the feed line. | 2,800 |
349,386 | 16,806,946 | 3,627 | A system and method for applications of computer vision in linking users with virtual data that can include detecting digital interaction state of a plurality of subjects in an environment using at least one sensor-based monitoring system; detecting a contextual organization of subjects relative to an operator station; at the operator station, augmenting the user interface based on the contextual organization of subjects which comprises of at least: presenting a set of subject indicators in the user interface with the subject indicators arranged in response to contextual organization, and in response to received user interaction with at least one selected subject indicator, accessing the digital interaction state of the subject associated the at least one subject indicator. | 1. A method comprising:
detecting digital interaction state of a plurality of subjects in an environment using at least one sensor-based monitoring system; detecting a contextual organization of subjects relative to an operator station; at the operator station, augmenting the user interface based on the contextual organization of subjects which comprises of at least:
presenting a set of subject indicators in the user interface with the subject indicators arranged in response to contextual organization, and
in response to received user interaction with at least one selected subject indicator, accessing the digital interaction state of the subject associated the at least one subject indicator. 2. The method of claim 1, wherein detecting digital interaction state comprises of: tracking a set of subjects through the environment and, for each subject, detecting item interaction events including at least item selection events and updating items in a checkout list based on the item interaction event; and wherein accessing the digital interaction state of the subject comprises accessing the checkout list of the subject an associated with the at least one subject indicator. 3. The method of claim 2, wherein accessing the checkout list of the subject comprises executing a checkout process for items of the checkout list. 4. The method of claim 3, wherein accessing the checkout list of the subject further comprises presenting a representation of the checkout list within the user interface. 5. The method of claim 3, wherein accessing the checkout list of the subject further comprises, if a cart issue is associated with the checkout list, presenting a guided resolution interaction flow within the user interface to resolve the cart issue prior to executing the checkout process. 6. The method of claim 3, wherein detecting contextual organization of subjects may include detecting social grouping of subjects and associating multiple subjects with a single checkout list. 7. The method of claim 2, wherein accessing the checkout list of the subject comprises adding at least one item to the checkout list of the subject based on received user interaction at the operator station. 8. The method of claim 2, wherein detecting item interaction events comprises of collecting image data, applying computer vision processing of the image data and detecting item interaction events in part from the computer vision processing. 9. The method of claim 2, wherein detecting item interaction events comprises of detecting user-item interactions using computer vision processing of image data and a smart shelf event data. 10. The method of claim 2, wherein detecting contextual organization comprises detecting line order by analyzing orientation and position of subjects relative to the operator station. 11. The method of claim 10, wherein detecting line order further comprises detecting a direction of attention of one of the operator station or an operator. 12. The method of claim 10, wherein presenting a set of subject indicators in the user interface with the subject indicators arranged in response to contextual organization comprises ordering the subject indicators in an order corresponding to the line order. 13. The method of claim 1, wherein presenting a set of subject indicators in the user interface comprises generating an interactive image-based representation of the position of subjects relative to the operator station and presenting the image-based representation with selectable subject indicators at the location of the subjects represented in the image-based representation. 14. The method of claim 13, wherein presenting the image-based representation comprises rendering the image-based representation in an augmented reality display. 15. A system comprising:
a sensor-based monitoring system comprising at least a computer vision monitoring system with a set of imaging devices; a computing device at an operator station, the computing device operating a subject management user interface; and one or more computer-readable mediums in communication with the sensor-based monitoring system and computing device, the one or more computer readable mediums storing instructions that, when executed by the one or more computer processors, cause the computer processors to:
detect user-associated data of a plurality of subjects in an environment,
detect a contextual organization of subjects relative to the operator station, and
at the computing device, augment the subject management user interface based on the contextual organization of subjects, which includes presenting subject indicators in the user interface with the subject indicators arranged in response to contextual organization, and, in response to user interaction with a subject indicator, accessing the user-associated data of a subject associated with the subject indicator. 16. The system of claim 1, wherein instructions to detect user-associated data comprise of: tracking a set of subjects through the environment and, for each subject, detecting item interaction events including at least item selection events and updating items in a checkout list based on the item interaction event; and wherein accessing the user-associated data of the subject comprises accessing the checkout list of the subject an associated with the at least one subject indicator. 17. The system of claim 16, wherein detecting item interaction events comprises of collecting image data, applying computer vision processing of the image data and detecting item interaction events in part from the computer vision processing. 18. The system of claim 16, wherein detecting item interaction events comprises of detecting user-item interactions using computer vision processing of image data and a smart shelf event data. 19. The system of claim 16, wherein instructions to detect contextual organization comprise detecting line order by analyzing orientation and position of subjects relative to the operator station. 20. The system of claim 16, wherein accessing the checkout list of the subject comprises executing a checkout process for items of the checkout list. | A system and method for applications of computer vision in linking users with virtual data that can include detecting digital interaction state of a plurality of subjects in an environment using at least one sensor-based monitoring system; detecting a contextual organization of subjects relative to an operator station; at the operator station, augmenting the user interface based on the contextual organization of subjects which comprises of at least: presenting a set of subject indicators in the user interface with the subject indicators arranged in response to contextual organization, and in response to received user interaction with at least one selected subject indicator, accessing the digital interaction state of the subject associated the at least one subject indicator.1. A method comprising:
detecting digital interaction state of a plurality of subjects in an environment using at least one sensor-based monitoring system; detecting a contextual organization of subjects relative to an operator station; at the operator station, augmenting the user interface based on the contextual organization of subjects which comprises of at least:
presenting a set of subject indicators in the user interface with the subject indicators arranged in response to contextual organization, and
in response to received user interaction with at least one selected subject indicator, accessing the digital interaction state of the subject associated the at least one subject indicator. 2. The method of claim 1, wherein detecting digital interaction state comprises of: tracking a set of subjects through the environment and, for each subject, detecting item interaction events including at least item selection events and updating items in a checkout list based on the item interaction event; and wherein accessing the digital interaction state of the subject comprises accessing the checkout list of the subject an associated with the at least one subject indicator. 3. The method of claim 2, wherein accessing the checkout list of the subject comprises executing a checkout process for items of the checkout list. 4. The method of claim 3, wherein accessing the checkout list of the subject further comprises presenting a representation of the checkout list within the user interface. 5. The method of claim 3, wherein accessing the checkout list of the subject further comprises, if a cart issue is associated with the checkout list, presenting a guided resolution interaction flow within the user interface to resolve the cart issue prior to executing the checkout process. 6. The method of claim 3, wherein detecting contextual organization of subjects may include detecting social grouping of subjects and associating multiple subjects with a single checkout list. 7. The method of claim 2, wherein accessing the checkout list of the subject comprises adding at least one item to the checkout list of the subject based on received user interaction at the operator station. 8. The method of claim 2, wherein detecting item interaction events comprises of collecting image data, applying computer vision processing of the image data and detecting item interaction events in part from the computer vision processing. 9. The method of claim 2, wherein detecting item interaction events comprises of detecting user-item interactions using computer vision processing of image data and a smart shelf event data. 10. The method of claim 2, wherein detecting contextual organization comprises detecting line order by analyzing orientation and position of subjects relative to the operator station. 11. The method of claim 10, wherein detecting line order further comprises detecting a direction of attention of one of the operator station or an operator. 12. The method of claim 10, wherein presenting a set of subject indicators in the user interface with the subject indicators arranged in response to contextual organization comprises ordering the subject indicators in an order corresponding to the line order. 13. The method of claim 1, wherein presenting a set of subject indicators in the user interface comprises generating an interactive image-based representation of the position of subjects relative to the operator station and presenting the image-based representation with selectable subject indicators at the location of the subjects represented in the image-based representation. 14. The method of claim 13, wherein presenting the image-based representation comprises rendering the image-based representation in an augmented reality display. 15. A system comprising:
a sensor-based monitoring system comprising at least a computer vision monitoring system with a set of imaging devices; a computing device at an operator station, the computing device operating a subject management user interface; and one or more computer-readable mediums in communication with the sensor-based monitoring system and computing device, the one or more computer readable mediums storing instructions that, when executed by the one or more computer processors, cause the computer processors to:
detect user-associated data of a plurality of subjects in an environment,
detect a contextual organization of subjects relative to the operator station, and
at the computing device, augment the subject management user interface based on the contextual organization of subjects, which includes presenting subject indicators in the user interface with the subject indicators arranged in response to contextual organization, and, in response to user interaction with a subject indicator, accessing the user-associated data of a subject associated with the subject indicator. 16. The system of claim 1, wherein instructions to detect user-associated data comprise of: tracking a set of subjects through the environment and, for each subject, detecting item interaction events including at least item selection events and updating items in a checkout list based on the item interaction event; and wherein accessing the user-associated data of the subject comprises accessing the checkout list of the subject an associated with the at least one subject indicator. 17. The system of claim 16, wherein detecting item interaction events comprises of collecting image data, applying computer vision processing of the image data and detecting item interaction events in part from the computer vision processing. 18. The system of claim 16, wherein detecting item interaction events comprises of detecting user-item interactions using computer vision processing of image data and a smart shelf event data. 19. The system of claim 16, wherein instructions to detect contextual organization comprise detecting line order by analyzing orientation and position of subjects relative to the operator station. 20. The system of claim 16, wherein accessing the checkout list of the subject comprises executing a checkout process for items of the checkout list. | 3,600 |
349,387 | 16,806,960 | 3,627 | An implant and method for posterior sacroiliac fusion having a plate for placement across the posterior surface of the sacroiliac joint, a transverse pin to slide through the plate and transverse the joint as well as provide an aperture to receive bone graft, and a sacral screw to be inserted through the plate. | 1. (canceled) 2. (canceled) 3. (canceled) 4. (canceled) 5. (canceled) 6. (canceled) 7. (canceled) 8. (canceled) 9. (canceled) 10. (canceled) 11. (canceled) 12. (canceled) 13. (canceled) 14. (canceled) 15. (canceled) 16. A method of fixation and fusion of a sacroiliac joint comprising an ilium, a sacrum, and a sacroiliac joint space, the method comprising:
decorticating of said sacroiliac joint; broaching a first channel through said ilium, across said sacroiliac joint space, and into said sacrum, wherein said first channel is configured to receive a transverse pin of a sacroiliac joint implant; pre-packing an aperture within said transverse pin with bone growth inducing material: drilling a second channel into said sacrum, wherein said second channel is configured to receive a sacrum screw of said sacroiliac joint implant; placing a plate of said sacroiliac joint implant across said sacroiliac joint space, said plate comprising a sacrum portion and an ilium portion; inserting said transverse pin through said plate and through said first channel; and inserting said sacrum screw through said plate and through said second channel. 17. The method of claim 16, further comprising providing bone growth inducing material within said sacroiliac joint space prior to placement of said sacroiliac joint implant. 18. The method of claim 16, further comprising providing bone growth inducing material within said sacroiliac joint space after placement of said sacroiliac joint implant. 19. The method of claim 16, further comprising providing bone growth inducing material within said sacroiliac joint space prior to placement of said sacroiliac joint implant and wherein a portion of providing bone growth inducing material within said sacroiliac joint space after placement of said sacroiliac joint implant. 20. The method of claim 16, further comprising providing bone growth inducing material to said sacroiliac joint space through a second aperture within said plate. 21. The method of claim 16, inserting said sacrum screw within a receiving component of said transverse pin. 22. The method of claim 16, wherein placing said plate comprises placing said sacrum portion flush with said posterior surface of a sacrum of a patient. 23. The method of claim 16, wherein placing said plate comprises placing said ilium portion flush with said posterior surface of an ilium of a patient. 24. The method of claim 16, wherein an angle between a bone contacting surface of said sacrum portion and a bone contacting surface of said ilium portion is between 95 degrees and 175 degrees. 25. The method of claim 16, wherein an angle between a bone contacting surface of said sacrum portion and a bone contacting surface of said ilium portion is adjustable. 26. The method of claim 16, wherein an angle between said sacrum portion and said ilium portion is configured to match anatomy of a particular patient. 27. The method of claim 16, further comprising:
drilling a third channel into said ilium, wherein said third channel is configured to receive an ilium screw of said sacroiliac joint implant; and inserting said ilium screw through said plate and through said third channel. 28. The method of claim 16, wherein said aperture further comprises walls configured to retain said bone growth inducing material. 29. The method of claim 16, wherein said aperture is configured to deliver bone growth inducing material to said sacroiliac joint space. 30. The method of claim 16, wherein said aperture is configured to deliver bone growth inducing material to said sacrum. 31. The method of claim 16, wherein said aperture is configured to deliver bone growth inducing material to said ilium. | An implant and method for posterior sacroiliac fusion having a plate for placement across the posterior surface of the sacroiliac joint, a transverse pin to slide through the plate and transverse the joint as well as provide an aperture to receive bone graft, and a sacral screw to be inserted through the plate.1. (canceled) 2. (canceled) 3. (canceled) 4. (canceled) 5. (canceled) 6. (canceled) 7. (canceled) 8. (canceled) 9. (canceled) 10. (canceled) 11. (canceled) 12. (canceled) 13. (canceled) 14. (canceled) 15. (canceled) 16. A method of fixation and fusion of a sacroiliac joint comprising an ilium, a sacrum, and a sacroiliac joint space, the method comprising:
decorticating of said sacroiliac joint; broaching a first channel through said ilium, across said sacroiliac joint space, and into said sacrum, wherein said first channel is configured to receive a transverse pin of a sacroiliac joint implant; pre-packing an aperture within said transverse pin with bone growth inducing material: drilling a second channel into said sacrum, wherein said second channel is configured to receive a sacrum screw of said sacroiliac joint implant; placing a plate of said sacroiliac joint implant across said sacroiliac joint space, said plate comprising a sacrum portion and an ilium portion; inserting said transverse pin through said plate and through said first channel; and inserting said sacrum screw through said plate and through said second channel. 17. The method of claim 16, further comprising providing bone growth inducing material within said sacroiliac joint space prior to placement of said sacroiliac joint implant. 18. The method of claim 16, further comprising providing bone growth inducing material within said sacroiliac joint space after placement of said sacroiliac joint implant. 19. The method of claim 16, further comprising providing bone growth inducing material within said sacroiliac joint space prior to placement of said sacroiliac joint implant and wherein a portion of providing bone growth inducing material within said sacroiliac joint space after placement of said sacroiliac joint implant. 20. The method of claim 16, further comprising providing bone growth inducing material to said sacroiliac joint space through a second aperture within said plate. 21. The method of claim 16, inserting said sacrum screw within a receiving component of said transverse pin. 22. The method of claim 16, wherein placing said plate comprises placing said sacrum portion flush with said posterior surface of a sacrum of a patient. 23. The method of claim 16, wherein placing said plate comprises placing said ilium portion flush with said posterior surface of an ilium of a patient. 24. The method of claim 16, wherein an angle between a bone contacting surface of said sacrum portion and a bone contacting surface of said ilium portion is between 95 degrees and 175 degrees. 25. The method of claim 16, wherein an angle between a bone contacting surface of said sacrum portion and a bone contacting surface of said ilium portion is adjustable. 26. The method of claim 16, wherein an angle between said sacrum portion and said ilium portion is configured to match anatomy of a particular patient. 27. The method of claim 16, further comprising:
drilling a third channel into said ilium, wherein said third channel is configured to receive an ilium screw of said sacroiliac joint implant; and inserting said ilium screw through said plate and through said third channel. 28. The method of claim 16, wherein said aperture further comprises walls configured to retain said bone growth inducing material. 29. The method of claim 16, wherein said aperture is configured to deliver bone growth inducing material to said sacroiliac joint space. 30. The method of claim 16, wherein said aperture is configured to deliver bone growth inducing material to said sacrum. 31. The method of claim 16, wherein said aperture is configured to deliver bone growth inducing material to said ilium. | 3,600 |
349,388 | 16,806,990 | 3,627 | A sensor system includes a triplet element including a first hydrophone, a second hydrophone, and a third hydrophone configured to receive an incoming signal at a first phase, a second phase, and a third phase, respectively, the first to third hydrophones extending along a first direction, and a processor configured to determine an incidence direction of the incoming signal, and to dynamically generate a cardioid null in the incidence direction to reject the incoming signal based on the incoming signal at the first to third phases. | 1. A sensor system comprising:
a triplet element comprising a first hydrophone, a second hydrophone, and a third hydrophone configured to receive an incoming signal at a first phase, a second phase, and a third phase, respectively, the first to third hydrophones extending along a first direction; and a processor configured to determine an incidence direction of the incoming signal, and to dynamically generate a cardioid null in the incidence direction to reject the incoming signal based on the incoming signal at the first to third phases. 2. The sensor system of claim 1, wherein the processor is configured to receive, without nullifying, other signals from directions different from the incidence direction of the incoming signal, the other signals being received by the triplet element at a same time as the incoming signal. 3. The sensor system of claim 1, wherein the first phase is different from the second phase. 4. The sensor system of claim 1, wherein the incoming signal is a surface reflection of an acoustic signal off of a seabed. 5. The sensor system of claim 1, wherein one end of each of the hydrophones is positioned along a circumference of a circle. 6. The sensor system of claim 5, wherein the first to third hydrophones are spaced at equal intervals. 7. The sensor system of claim 5, wherein a radius of the circle is less than or equal to ⅙ of a wavelength of the incoming signal. 8. The sensor system of claim 1, wherein the processor is configured to determine an incidence direction of the incoming signal based on a depth of the triplet element, a water column depth, a timing of transmission of a signal being reflected back from a seabed and a water surface as the incoming signal. 9. The sensor system of claim 1, wherein the processor is configured to determine a first incidence direction of the incoming signal at a first time, to determine a second incidence direction of the incoming signal at a second time, and to steer the cardioid null from the first incidence direction to the second incidence direction to reject the incoming signal over time. 10. The sensor system of claim 1, wherein the processor is further configured to calculate an output response of the sensor system as a weighted summation of intensities of signals received at the first to third hydrophones, wherein weights of the weighted summation are based on a radius of the triplet element and an angular location of the cardioid null generated by the sensor system. 11. The sensor system of claim 1, wherein the processor is further configured to calculate an output response of the sensor system as: 12. The sensor system of claim 11, wherein the Phasor is expressed by: 13. The sensor system of claim 11, wherein in the null-rotating term, 14. A sensor system comprising:
a plurality of triplet elements coupled together along a first direction, a triplet element of the plurality of triplet elements comprising a first hydrophone, a second hydrophone, and a third hydrophone configured to receive an incoming signal at a first phase, a second phase, and a third phase, respectively, the first to third hydrophones extending along a first direction; and a processor configured to determine an incidence direction of the incoming signal, and to dynamically generate a cardioid null in the incidence direction to reject the incoming signal based on the incoming signal at the first to third phases. 15. The sensor system of claim 14, wherein the sensor system is configured to be towed by a tow body at a particular depth below a water surface, the tow body being towed by a surface vehicle. 16. The sensor system of claim 15, wherein the tow body comprises a transmitter configured to generate a pulsed acoustic signal emitted from sides of the tow body, and
wherein the incoming signal is a reflection of the pulsed acoustic signal from a seabed and a water surface as the incoming signal. 17. The sensor system of claim 14, wherein the first to third hydrophones are spaced at equal intervals. 18. The sensor system of claim 14, wherein a radius of the triplet element is less than or equal to ⅙ of a wavelength of the incoming signal. 19. The sensor system of claim 14, wherein the processor is configured to determine an incidence direction of the incoming signal based on a depth of the triplet element, a water column depth, a timing of transmission of a signal being reflected back from a seabed and a water surface as the incoming signal. 20. The sensor system of claim 14, wherein the processor is configured to determine a first incidence direction of the incoming signal at a first time, to determine a second incidence direction of the incoming signal at a second time, and to steer the cardioid null from the first incidence direction to the second incidence direction to reject the incoming signal over time. | A sensor system includes a triplet element including a first hydrophone, a second hydrophone, and a third hydrophone configured to receive an incoming signal at a first phase, a second phase, and a third phase, respectively, the first to third hydrophones extending along a first direction, and a processor configured to determine an incidence direction of the incoming signal, and to dynamically generate a cardioid null in the incidence direction to reject the incoming signal based on the incoming signal at the first to third phases.1. A sensor system comprising:
a triplet element comprising a first hydrophone, a second hydrophone, and a third hydrophone configured to receive an incoming signal at a first phase, a second phase, and a third phase, respectively, the first to third hydrophones extending along a first direction; and a processor configured to determine an incidence direction of the incoming signal, and to dynamically generate a cardioid null in the incidence direction to reject the incoming signal based on the incoming signal at the first to third phases. 2. The sensor system of claim 1, wherein the processor is configured to receive, without nullifying, other signals from directions different from the incidence direction of the incoming signal, the other signals being received by the triplet element at a same time as the incoming signal. 3. The sensor system of claim 1, wherein the first phase is different from the second phase. 4. The sensor system of claim 1, wherein the incoming signal is a surface reflection of an acoustic signal off of a seabed. 5. The sensor system of claim 1, wherein one end of each of the hydrophones is positioned along a circumference of a circle. 6. The sensor system of claim 5, wherein the first to third hydrophones are spaced at equal intervals. 7. The sensor system of claim 5, wherein a radius of the circle is less than or equal to ⅙ of a wavelength of the incoming signal. 8. The sensor system of claim 1, wherein the processor is configured to determine an incidence direction of the incoming signal based on a depth of the triplet element, a water column depth, a timing of transmission of a signal being reflected back from a seabed and a water surface as the incoming signal. 9. The sensor system of claim 1, wherein the processor is configured to determine a first incidence direction of the incoming signal at a first time, to determine a second incidence direction of the incoming signal at a second time, and to steer the cardioid null from the first incidence direction to the second incidence direction to reject the incoming signal over time. 10. The sensor system of claim 1, wherein the processor is further configured to calculate an output response of the sensor system as a weighted summation of intensities of signals received at the first to third hydrophones, wherein weights of the weighted summation are based on a radius of the triplet element and an angular location of the cardioid null generated by the sensor system. 11. The sensor system of claim 1, wherein the processor is further configured to calculate an output response of the sensor system as: 12. The sensor system of claim 11, wherein the Phasor is expressed by: 13. The sensor system of claim 11, wherein in the null-rotating term, 14. A sensor system comprising:
a plurality of triplet elements coupled together along a first direction, a triplet element of the plurality of triplet elements comprising a first hydrophone, a second hydrophone, and a third hydrophone configured to receive an incoming signal at a first phase, a second phase, and a third phase, respectively, the first to third hydrophones extending along a first direction; and a processor configured to determine an incidence direction of the incoming signal, and to dynamically generate a cardioid null in the incidence direction to reject the incoming signal based on the incoming signal at the first to third phases. 15. The sensor system of claim 14, wherein the sensor system is configured to be towed by a tow body at a particular depth below a water surface, the tow body being towed by a surface vehicle. 16. The sensor system of claim 15, wherein the tow body comprises a transmitter configured to generate a pulsed acoustic signal emitted from sides of the tow body, and
wherein the incoming signal is a reflection of the pulsed acoustic signal from a seabed and a water surface as the incoming signal. 17. The sensor system of claim 14, wherein the first to third hydrophones are spaced at equal intervals. 18. The sensor system of claim 14, wherein a radius of the triplet element is less than or equal to ⅙ of a wavelength of the incoming signal. 19. The sensor system of claim 14, wherein the processor is configured to determine an incidence direction of the incoming signal based on a depth of the triplet element, a water column depth, a timing of transmission of a signal being reflected back from a seabed and a water surface as the incoming signal. 20. The sensor system of claim 14, wherein the processor is configured to determine a first incidence direction of the incoming signal at a first time, to determine a second incidence direction of the incoming signal at a second time, and to steer the cardioid null from the first incidence direction to the second incidence direction to reject the incoming signal over time. | 3,600 |
349,389 | 16,807,011 | 3,627 | A system for building a reconfigurable trellis includes at least one slidable pole connector configured to slide along a pole having either a circular or rectangular cross-section. The slidable pole connector includes a first portion configured to slide along a first pole and a second portion extending perpendicularly from the first portion and configured to receive an end of a second pole. The first portion may be in the form of a sleeve, which may be unitary or may include two detachably connected parts. A tightening mechanism may be provided to secure the first portion against the first pole and to prevent further sliding of the first portion when the connector is in a desired position. Several slidable pole connectors may be used with one another and with strand or rope connectors to secure a plurality of vertical poles, horizontal poles, and ropes, cables, strings, or wires to one another in a variety of adjustable configurations. | 1. A system for connecting a plurality of elements to build a reconfigurable trellis, comprising:
a plurality of vertical poles; a plurality of horizontal poles; and a plurality of slidable vertical connectors configured to connect the plurality of vertical poles to the plurality of horizontal poles to form a trellis, each slidable vertical connector including a first portion having an internal diameter that is larger than an external diameter of the vertical poles, so as to allow sliding movement of each slidable vertical connector onto the vertical poles and thus selection of a desired height at which one or more trellis levels are formed by the plurality of horizontal poles once connected to the plurality of vertical poles, a second portion extending perpendicularly from the first portion and configured to receive an end of one of the plurality of horizontal poles. 2. A system according to claim 1, wherein the each slidable vertical connector further comprises a tightening mechanism configured to secure the first portion against the vertical pole to prevent further sliding of the slidable vertical connector when the slidable vertical connector is in a desired position. 3. A system according to claim 1, wherein the second portion of each slidable vertical connector comprises a boss extending perpendicularly to the first portion and being configured to surround the end of one of the plurality of horizontal poles. 4. A system according to claim 2, wherein:
the first portion comprises a sleeve; the boss is a first boss; and the second portion of each slidable vertical connector comprises a second boss extending perpendicularly with respect to the sleeve and being configured to surround the end of another of the plurality of horizontal poles. | A system for building a reconfigurable trellis includes at least one slidable pole connector configured to slide along a pole having either a circular or rectangular cross-section. The slidable pole connector includes a first portion configured to slide along a first pole and a second portion extending perpendicularly from the first portion and configured to receive an end of a second pole. The first portion may be in the form of a sleeve, which may be unitary or may include two detachably connected parts. A tightening mechanism may be provided to secure the first portion against the first pole and to prevent further sliding of the first portion when the connector is in a desired position. Several slidable pole connectors may be used with one another and with strand or rope connectors to secure a plurality of vertical poles, horizontal poles, and ropes, cables, strings, or wires to one another in a variety of adjustable configurations.1. A system for connecting a plurality of elements to build a reconfigurable trellis, comprising:
a plurality of vertical poles; a plurality of horizontal poles; and a plurality of slidable vertical connectors configured to connect the plurality of vertical poles to the plurality of horizontal poles to form a trellis, each slidable vertical connector including a first portion having an internal diameter that is larger than an external diameter of the vertical poles, so as to allow sliding movement of each slidable vertical connector onto the vertical poles and thus selection of a desired height at which one or more trellis levels are formed by the plurality of horizontal poles once connected to the plurality of vertical poles, a second portion extending perpendicularly from the first portion and configured to receive an end of one of the plurality of horizontal poles. 2. A system according to claim 1, wherein the each slidable vertical connector further comprises a tightening mechanism configured to secure the first portion against the vertical pole to prevent further sliding of the slidable vertical connector when the slidable vertical connector is in a desired position. 3. A system according to claim 1, wherein the second portion of each slidable vertical connector comprises a boss extending perpendicularly to the first portion and being configured to surround the end of one of the plurality of horizontal poles. 4. A system according to claim 2, wherein:
the first portion comprises a sleeve; the boss is a first boss; and the second portion of each slidable vertical connector comprises a second boss extending perpendicularly with respect to the sleeve and being configured to surround the end of another of the plurality of horizontal poles. | 3,600 |
349,390 | 16,806,998 | 3,792 | In one example, a wearable vital sign monitor (WVSM) system comprises a support structure configured to be worn by a patient, a plurality of patient physiological sensors configured to be coupled to the patient when the patient is wearing the support structure, each patient physiological sensor configured to output a respective patient physiological signal, a memory, and, a processor communicatively coupled to the plurality of patient physiological sensors and configured to store in the memory measurements of patient physiological signals taken at selected times based on a categorization of the patient physiological signal. | 1. A wearable vital sign monitor (WVSM) system comprising:
a support structure configured to be worn by a patient; a plurality of patient physiological sensors configured to be coupled to the patient when the patient is wearing the support structure, each patient physiological sensor configured to output a respective patient physiological signal; a memory; and a processor communicatively coupled to the plurality of patient physiological sensors and configured to store in the memory measurements of patient physiological signals taken at selected times based on a categorization of the patient physiological signal, a selected time for each categorization based on an optimal time to accurately measure a corresponding patient physiological signal; wherein the processor causes a representation of the patient physiological signals to be displayed. 2. The WVSM system of claim 1 wherein:
the categorization includes continuous monitoring and sedentary monitoring; and
the processor is further configured to sense sedentary periods, and responsive thereto to store a measurement of a patient physiological signal that is categorized in the sedentary monitoring category. 3. The WVSM system of claim 1 wherein the categorization includes continuous monitoring, sedentary monitoring, and manual spot measurements. 4. The WVSM system of claim 1 wherein the processor is further configured to aggregate and process readings of an output from a patient physiological sensor taken according to two or more categories to generate an optimal or representative result. 5. The WVSM system of claim 1, further comprising a wearable cardioverter defibrillator (WCD) comprising one or more of the patient physiological sensors to obtain one or more measurements from the patient in one or more categorizations, and to transmit the one or more measurements to the WVSM system. 6. The WVSM system of claim 1, further comprising a wearable cardioverter defibrillator (WCD), wherein the WVSM is configured to obtain one or more measurements from the patient in one or more categorizations, and to transmit the one or more measurements to the WCD, wherein the WCD is to make a more accurate determination of whether to apply a therapeutic shock to the patient based on the one or more measurements. 7. The WVSM system of claim 1, wherein at least one of the sensors is located external to the support structure, and the processor is configured to receive at least one of the patient physiological parameters from the external sensor. 8. A method of operating a wearable vital signs monitor (WVSM), comprising:
obtaining a first measurement of a patient physiological parameter using a patient physiological sensor, wherein the first measurement is obtained at a first frequency based on a first category of monitoring; obtaining a second measurement of the patient physiological parameter using the patient physiological sensor, wherein the second measurement is obtained at a second frequency based on a second category of monitoring; aggregating the first measurement with the second measurement to obtain an aggregated trend for the patient physiological parameter; and displaying the aggregated trend as a representation of the patient physiological parameter. 9. The method of claim 8, further comprising:
obtaining a third measurement of the patient physiological parameter using the patient physiological sensor at a third frequency based on a third category of monitoring, and aggregating the third measurement with the first measurement and the second measurement. 10. The method of claim 8, wherein the first category of monitoring or the second category of monitoring comprises continuous monitoring of the patient physiological signal. 11. The method of claim 8, further comprising sensing when the patient is in a sedentary state, wherein the first category of monitoring or the second category of monitoring comprises automatic sedentary monitoring of the patient physiological parameter when the patient is in a sedentary state. 12. The method of claim 8, wherein the first category of monitoring or the second category of monitoring comprises manual spot measurement. 13. The method of claim 9, wherein the third category of monitoring comprises continuous monitoring, automatic sedentary monitoring, or manual spot measurement. 14. The method of claim 8, wherein a first weight is applied to measurements obtained using the first category of measurement, and a second weight is applied to measurements obtained using the second category of measurement. 15. The method of claim 8, wherein one of the first measurement or the second measurement is obtained from a device external to the WVSM. 16. The method of claim 8, wherein one of the first measurement or the second measurement is obtained from a patient physiological sensor of a wearable cardioverter defibrillator (WCD). 17. The method of claim 8, wherein one of the first measurement or the second measurement is obtained with the patient physiological sensor of the WVSM and transmitted to a wearable cardioverter defibrillator (WCD). 18. A wearable vital sign monitor (WVSM), comprising:
a support structure to be worn by a patient; a patient physiological sensor configured to be coupled to a patient to monitor a patient physiological parameter when the patient is wearing the support structure; processor coupled with the patient physiological sensor; and a memory to store measurements of the patient physiological parameter; a display to display the patient physiological parameter to the patient; wherein the processor is configured to:
obtain a first measurement of the patient physiological parameter using the patient physiological sensor, wherein the first measurement is obtained at a first frequency based on a first category of monitoring;
obtain a second measurement of the patient physiological signal using the patient physiological sensor, wherein the second measurement is obtained at a second frequency based on a second category of monitoring; aggregate the first measurement with the second measurement to obtain an aggregated trend for the patient physiological parameter; store the aggregated trend in the memory; and display the aggregated trend as a more accurate representation of the patient physiological parameter on the display. 19. The WVSM of claim 18, wherein the support structure comprises a wrist band, a chest band, an arm band, a head band, a leg band, or an ankle band. 20. The WVSM of claim 18, wherein the support structure comprises a cuff. 21. The WVSM of claim 18, wherein the support structure comprises a vest or a belt. 22. The WVSM of claim 18, further comprising an additional patient physiological sensors is located external to the support structure, and the processor is configured to receive at least one of the measurements from the external sensor. | In one example, a wearable vital sign monitor (WVSM) system comprises a support structure configured to be worn by a patient, a plurality of patient physiological sensors configured to be coupled to the patient when the patient is wearing the support structure, each patient physiological sensor configured to output a respective patient physiological signal, a memory, and, a processor communicatively coupled to the plurality of patient physiological sensors and configured to store in the memory measurements of patient physiological signals taken at selected times based on a categorization of the patient physiological signal.1. A wearable vital sign monitor (WVSM) system comprising:
a support structure configured to be worn by a patient; a plurality of patient physiological sensors configured to be coupled to the patient when the patient is wearing the support structure, each patient physiological sensor configured to output a respective patient physiological signal; a memory; and a processor communicatively coupled to the plurality of patient physiological sensors and configured to store in the memory measurements of patient physiological signals taken at selected times based on a categorization of the patient physiological signal, a selected time for each categorization based on an optimal time to accurately measure a corresponding patient physiological signal; wherein the processor causes a representation of the patient physiological signals to be displayed. 2. The WVSM system of claim 1 wherein:
the categorization includes continuous monitoring and sedentary monitoring; and
the processor is further configured to sense sedentary periods, and responsive thereto to store a measurement of a patient physiological signal that is categorized in the sedentary monitoring category. 3. The WVSM system of claim 1 wherein the categorization includes continuous monitoring, sedentary monitoring, and manual spot measurements. 4. The WVSM system of claim 1 wherein the processor is further configured to aggregate and process readings of an output from a patient physiological sensor taken according to two or more categories to generate an optimal or representative result. 5. The WVSM system of claim 1, further comprising a wearable cardioverter defibrillator (WCD) comprising one or more of the patient physiological sensors to obtain one or more measurements from the patient in one or more categorizations, and to transmit the one or more measurements to the WVSM system. 6. The WVSM system of claim 1, further comprising a wearable cardioverter defibrillator (WCD), wherein the WVSM is configured to obtain one or more measurements from the patient in one or more categorizations, and to transmit the one or more measurements to the WCD, wherein the WCD is to make a more accurate determination of whether to apply a therapeutic shock to the patient based on the one or more measurements. 7. The WVSM system of claim 1, wherein at least one of the sensors is located external to the support structure, and the processor is configured to receive at least one of the patient physiological parameters from the external sensor. 8. A method of operating a wearable vital signs monitor (WVSM), comprising:
obtaining a first measurement of a patient physiological parameter using a patient physiological sensor, wherein the first measurement is obtained at a first frequency based on a first category of monitoring; obtaining a second measurement of the patient physiological parameter using the patient physiological sensor, wherein the second measurement is obtained at a second frequency based on a second category of monitoring; aggregating the first measurement with the second measurement to obtain an aggregated trend for the patient physiological parameter; and displaying the aggregated trend as a representation of the patient physiological parameter. 9. The method of claim 8, further comprising:
obtaining a third measurement of the patient physiological parameter using the patient physiological sensor at a third frequency based on a third category of monitoring, and aggregating the third measurement with the first measurement and the second measurement. 10. The method of claim 8, wherein the first category of monitoring or the second category of monitoring comprises continuous monitoring of the patient physiological signal. 11. The method of claim 8, further comprising sensing when the patient is in a sedentary state, wherein the first category of monitoring or the second category of monitoring comprises automatic sedentary monitoring of the patient physiological parameter when the patient is in a sedentary state. 12. The method of claim 8, wherein the first category of monitoring or the second category of monitoring comprises manual spot measurement. 13. The method of claim 9, wherein the third category of monitoring comprises continuous monitoring, automatic sedentary monitoring, or manual spot measurement. 14. The method of claim 8, wherein a first weight is applied to measurements obtained using the first category of measurement, and a second weight is applied to measurements obtained using the second category of measurement. 15. The method of claim 8, wherein one of the first measurement or the second measurement is obtained from a device external to the WVSM. 16. The method of claim 8, wherein one of the first measurement or the second measurement is obtained from a patient physiological sensor of a wearable cardioverter defibrillator (WCD). 17. The method of claim 8, wherein one of the first measurement or the second measurement is obtained with the patient physiological sensor of the WVSM and transmitted to a wearable cardioverter defibrillator (WCD). 18. A wearable vital sign monitor (WVSM), comprising:
a support structure to be worn by a patient; a patient physiological sensor configured to be coupled to a patient to monitor a patient physiological parameter when the patient is wearing the support structure; processor coupled with the patient physiological sensor; and a memory to store measurements of the patient physiological parameter; a display to display the patient physiological parameter to the patient; wherein the processor is configured to:
obtain a first measurement of the patient physiological parameter using the patient physiological sensor, wherein the first measurement is obtained at a first frequency based on a first category of monitoring;
obtain a second measurement of the patient physiological signal using the patient physiological sensor, wherein the second measurement is obtained at a second frequency based on a second category of monitoring; aggregate the first measurement with the second measurement to obtain an aggregated trend for the patient physiological parameter; store the aggregated trend in the memory; and display the aggregated trend as a more accurate representation of the patient physiological parameter on the display. 19. The WVSM of claim 18, wherein the support structure comprises a wrist band, a chest band, an arm band, a head band, a leg band, or an ankle band. 20. The WVSM of claim 18, wherein the support structure comprises a cuff. 21. The WVSM of claim 18, wherein the support structure comprises a vest or a belt. 22. The WVSM of claim 18, further comprising an additional patient physiological sensors is located external to the support structure, and the processor is configured to receive at least one of the measurements from the external sensor. | 3,700 |
349,391 | 16,806,995 | 3,792 | Systems and methods are disclosed herein for a recommendations engine that generates content recommendations using a trained model. The disclosed techniques herein provide a trained model to provide content recommendations. The trained model may have been updated based on information about content consumption associated with a profile. The information about content consumption may include information about consumption of portions of content items. A system generates content recommendations using the trained model. A system generates content portion recommendations based on the content recommendations and on the information about consumption of portions of content items. The system then causes to be provided the content recommendations. | 1. A computer-implemented method of providing content recommendations, the method comprising:
providing a trained model that had been updated based on information about content consumption associated with a profile, wherein the information about content consumption comprises information about consumption of portions of content items; generating, using the trained model, content recommendations; generating content portion recommendations based on the content recommendations and on the information about consumption of portions of content items; and causing to be provided the content portion recommendations. 2. The method of claim 1, wherein a portion of a content item is preferred based on the information about consumption of portions of content items, and wherein generating content portion recommendations is at least partially based on the preferred portion. 3. The method of claim 1, wherein a portion of a content item is not preferred based on the information about consumption of portions of content items, and wherein generating content portion recommendations is at least partially based on the nonpreferred portion. 4. The method of claim 1, further comprising determining a preferred genre based on the information about content consumption, and wherein the content portion recommendations are based on the preferred genre. 5. The method of claim 1, further comprising determining a preferred content item length based on the information about content consumption, and wherein the content portion recommendations are based on the preferred content item length. 6. The method of claim 1, further comprising ranking content genres contained in the information about content consumption to generate a genre ranking, and wherein ordering of the content portion recommendations is based on the genre ranking. 7. The method of claim 1, wherein the content recommendations are first content recommendations, and wherein the content portion recommendations are first content portion recommendations, the method further comprising:
receiving additional information corresponding to consumption of the content portion recommendations and of the content recommendations; generating second content recommendations using the trained model; generating second content portion recommendations based on the second content recommendations and on the additional information; and causing to be provided the second content portion recommendations. 8. The method of claim 1, wherein the information about content consumption is based on at least one of full consumption of content, partial consumption of content, or frequency of consumption of content. 9. The method of claim 1, wherein the information about content consumption is based on at least one of a time of consumption, a location of consumption, a genre of content consumed, a type of content consumed, or a control function selection made during content consumption. 10. The method of claim 1, wherein the information about content consumption comprises information about activity on a social network. 11. A system for providing content recommendations, the system comprising: communications circuitry configured to:
provide a trained model that had been updated based on information about content consumption associated with a profile, wherein the information about content consumption comprises information about consumption of portions of content items; and control circuitry configured to:
generate, using the trained model, content recommendations;
generate content portion recommendations based on the content recommendations and on the information about consumption of portions of content items; and
cause to be provided the content portion recommendations. 12. The system of claim 11, wherein a portion of a content item is preferred based on the information about consumption of portions of content items, and wherein the control circuitry is configured to generate content portion recommendations at least partially based on the preferred portion. 13. The system of claim 11, wherein a portion of a content item is not preferred based on the information about consumption of portions of content items, and wherein the control circuitry is configured to generate content portion recommendations at least partially based on the nonpreferred portion. 14. The system of claim 11, wherein the control circuitry is further configured to determine a preferred genre based on the information about content consumption, and wherein the content portion recommendations are based on the preferred genre. 15. The system of claim 11, wherein the control circuitry is further configured to determine a preferred content item length based on the information about content consumption, and wherein the content portion recommendations are based on the preferred content item length. 16. The system of claim 11, wherein the control circuitry is further configured to rank content genres contained in the information about content consumption to generate a genre ranking, and wherein ordering of the content portion recommendations is based on the genre ranking. 17. The system of claim 11, wherein the content recommendations are first content recommendations, wherein the content portion recommendations are first content portion recommendations, and wherein:
the communications circuitry is further configured to:
receive additional information corresponding to consumption of the content portion recommendations and of the content recommendations; and
the control circuitry is further configured to:
generate second content recommendations using the trained model;
generate second content portion recommendations based on the second content recommendations and on the additional information; and
cause to be provided the second content portion recommendations. 18. The system of claim 11, wherein the information about content consumption is based on at least one of full consumption of content, partial consumption of content, or frequency of consumption of content. 19. The system of claim 11, wherein the information about content consumption is based on at least one of a time of consumption, a location of consumption, a genre of content consumed, a type of content consumed, or a control function selection made during content consumption. 20. The system of claim 11, wherein the information about content consumption comprises information about activity on a social network. 21-50. (canceled) | Systems and methods are disclosed herein for a recommendations engine that generates content recommendations using a trained model. The disclosed techniques herein provide a trained model to provide content recommendations. The trained model may have been updated based on information about content consumption associated with a profile. The information about content consumption may include information about consumption of portions of content items. A system generates content recommendations using the trained model. A system generates content portion recommendations based on the content recommendations and on the information about consumption of portions of content items. The system then causes to be provided the content recommendations.1. A computer-implemented method of providing content recommendations, the method comprising:
providing a trained model that had been updated based on information about content consumption associated with a profile, wherein the information about content consumption comprises information about consumption of portions of content items; generating, using the trained model, content recommendations; generating content portion recommendations based on the content recommendations and on the information about consumption of portions of content items; and causing to be provided the content portion recommendations. 2. The method of claim 1, wherein a portion of a content item is preferred based on the information about consumption of portions of content items, and wherein generating content portion recommendations is at least partially based on the preferred portion. 3. The method of claim 1, wherein a portion of a content item is not preferred based on the information about consumption of portions of content items, and wherein generating content portion recommendations is at least partially based on the nonpreferred portion. 4. The method of claim 1, further comprising determining a preferred genre based on the information about content consumption, and wherein the content portion recommendations are based on the preferred genre. 5. The method of claim 1, further comprising determining a preferred content item length based on the information about content consumption, and wherein the content portion recommendations are based on the preferred content item length. 6. The method of claim 1, further comprising ranking content genres contained in the information about content consumption to generate a genre ranking, and wherein ordering of the content portion recommendations is based on the genre ranking. 7. The method of claim 1, wherein the content recommendations are first content recommendations, and wherein the content portion recommendations are first content portion recommendations, the method further comprising:
receiving additional information corresponding to consumption of the content portion recommendations and of the content recommendations; generating second content recommendations using the trained model; generating second content portion recommendations based on the second content recommendations and on the additional information; and causing to be provided the second content portion recommendations. 8. The method of claim 1, wherein the information about content consumption is based on at least one of full consumption of content, partial consumption of content, or frequency of consumption of content. 9. The method of claim 1, wherein the information about content consumption is based on at least one of a time of consumption, a location of consumption, a genre of content consumed, a type of content consumed, or a control function selection made during content consumption. 10. The method of claim 1, wherein the information about content consumption comprises information about activity on a social network. 11. A system for providing content recommendations, the system comprising: communications circuitry configured to:
provide a trained model that had been updated based on information about content consumption associated with a profile, wherein the information about content consumption comprises information about consumption of portions of content items; and control circuitry configured to:
generate, using the trained model, content recommendations;
generate content portion recommendations based on the content recommendations and on the information about consumption of portions of content items; and
cause to be provided the content portion recommendations. 12. The system of claim 11, wherein a portion of a content item is preferred based on the information about consumption of portions of content items, and wherein the control circuitry is configured to generate content portion recommendations at least partially based on the preferred portion. 13. The system of claim 11, wherein a portion of a content item is not preferred based on the information about consumption of portions of content items, and wherein the control circuitry is configured to generate content portion recommendations at least partially based on the nonpreferred portion. 14. The system of claim 11, wherein the control circuitry is further configured to determine a preferred genre based on the information about content consumption, and wherein the content portion recommendations are based on the preferred genre. 15. The system of claim 11, wherein the control circuitry is further configured to determine a preferred content item length based on the information about content consumption, and wherein the content portion recommendations are based on the preferred content item length. 16. The system of claim 11, wherein the control circuitry is further configured to rank content genres contained in the information about content consumption to generate a genre ranking, and wherein ordering of the content portion recommendations is based on the genre ranking. 17. The system of claim 11, wherein the content recommendations are first content recommendations, wherein the content portion recommendations are first content portion recommendations, and wherein:
the communications circuitry is further configured to:
receive additional information corresponding to consumption of the content portion recommendations and of the content recommendations; and
the control circuitry is further configured to:
generate second content recommendations using the trained model;
generate second content portion recommendations based on the second content recommendations and on the additional information; and
cause to be provided the second content portion recommendations. 18. The system of claim 11, wherein the information about content consumption is based on at least one of full consumption of content, partial consumption of content, or frequency of consumption of content. 19. The system of claim 11, wherein the information about content consumption is based on at least one of a time of consumption, a location of consumption, a genre of content consumed, a type of content consumed, or a control function selection made during content consumption. 20. The system of claim 11, wherein the information about content consumption comprises information about activity on a social network. 21-50. (canceled) | 3,700 |
349,392 | 16,806,975 | 3,792 | Systems and methods are disclosed herein for a recommendations engine that generates content recommendations using a trained model. The disclosed techniques herein provide a trained model to provide content recommendations. The trained model may have been updated based on information about content consumption associated with a profile. The information about content consumption may include information about consumption of portions of content items. A system generates content recommendations using the trained model. A system generates content portion recommendations based on the content recommendations and on the information about consumption of portions of content items. The system then causes to be provided the content recommendations. | 1. A computer-implemented method of providing content recommendations, the method comprising:
providing a trained model that had been updated based on information about content consumption associated with a profile, wherein the information about content consumption comprises information about consumption of portions of content items; generating, using the trained model, content recommendations; generating content portion recommendations based on the content recommendations and on the information about consumption of portions of content items; and causing to be provided the content portion recommendations. 2. The method of claim 1, wherein a portion of a content item is preferred based on the information about consumption of portions of content items, and wherein generating content portion recommendations is at least partially based on the preferred portion. 3. The method of claim 1, wherein a portion of a content item is not preferred based on the information about consumption of portions of content items, and wherein generating content portion recommendations is at least partially based on the nonpreferred portion. 4. The method of claim 1, further comprising determining a preferred genre based on the information about content consumption, and wherein the content portion recommendations are based on the preferred genre. 5. The method of claim 1, further comprising determining a preferred content item length based on the information about content consumption, and wherein the content portion recommendations are based on the preferred content item length. 6. The method of claim 1, further comprising ranking content genres contained in the information about content consumption to generate a genre ranking, and wherein ordering of the content portion recommendations is based on the genre ranking. 7. The method of claim 1, wherein the content recommendations are first content recommendations, and wherein the content portion recommendations are first content portion recommendations, the method further comprising:
receiving additional information corresponding to consumption of the content portion recommendations and of the content recommendations; generating second content recommendations using the trained model; generating second content portion recommendations based on the second content recommendations and on the additional information; and causing to be provided the second content portion recommendations. 8. The method of claim 1, wherein the information about content consumption is based on at least one of full consumption of content, partial consumption of content, or frequency of consumption of content. 9. The method of claim 1, wherein the information about content consumption is based on at least one of a time of consumption, a location of consumption, a genre of content consumed, a type of content consumed, or a control function selection made during content consumption. 10. The method of claim 1, wherein the information about content consumption comprises information about activity on a social network. 11. A system for providing content recommendations, the system comprising: communications circuitry configured to:
provide a trained model that had been updated based on information about content consumption associated with a profile, wherein the information about content consumption comprises information about consumption of portions of content items; and control circuitry configured to:
generate, using the trained model, content recommendations;
generate content portion recommendations based on the content recommendations and on the information about consumption of portions of content items; and
cause to be provided the content portion recommendations. 12. The system of claim 11, wherein a portion of a content item is preferred based on the information about consumption of portions of content items, and wherein the control circuitry is configured to generate content portion recommendations at least partially based on the preferred portion. 13. The system of claim 11, wherein a portion of a content item is not preferred based on the information about consumption of portions of content items, and wherein the control circuitry is configured to generate content portion recommendations at least partially based on the nonpreferred portion. 14. The system of claim 11, wherein the control circuitry is further configured to determine a preferred genre based on the information about content consumption, and wherein the content portion recommendations are based on the preferred genre. 15. The system of claim 11, wherein the control circuitry is further configured to determine a preferred content item length based on the information about content consumption, and wherein the content portion recommendations are based on the preferred content item length. 16. The system of claim 11, wherein the control circuitry is further configured to rank content genres contained in the information about content consumption to generate a genre ranking, and wherein ordering of the content portion recommendations is based on the genre ranking. 17. The system of claim 11, wherein the content recommendations are first content recommendations, wherein the content portion recommendations are first content portion recommendations, and wherein:
the communications circuitry is further configured to:
receive additional information corresponding to consumption of the content portion recommendations and of the content recommendations; and
the control circuitry is further configured to:
generate second content recommendations using the trained model;
generate second content portion recommendations based on the second content recommendations and on the additional information; and
cause to be provided the second content portion recommendations. 18. The system of claim 11, wherein the information about content consumption is based on at least one of full consumption of content, partial consumption of content, or frequency of consumption of content. 19. The system of claim 11, wherein the information about content consumption is based on at least one of a time of consumption, a location of consumption, a genre of content consumed, a type of content consumed, or a control function selection made during content consumption. 20. The system of claim 11, wherein the information about content consumption comprises information about activity on a social network. 21-50. (canceled) | Systems and methods are disclosed herein for a recommendations engine that generates content recommendations using a trained model. The disclosed techniques herein provide a trained model to provide content recommendations. The trained model may have been updated based on information about content consumption associated with a profile. The information about content consumption may include information about consumption of portions of content items. A system generates content recommendations using the trained model. A system generates content portion recommendations based on the content recommendations and on the information about consumption of portions of content items. The system then causes to be provided the content recommendations.1. A computer-implemented method of providing content recommendations, the method comprising:
providing a trained model that had been updated based on information about content consumption associated with a profile, wherein the information about content consumption comprises information about consumption of portions of content items; generating, using the trained model, content recommendations; generating content portion recommendations based on the content recommendations and on the information about consumption of portions of content items; and causing to be provided the content portion recommendations. 2. The method of claim 1, wherein a portion of a content item is preferred based on the information about consumption of portions of content items, and wherein generating content portion recommendations is at least partially based on the preferred portion. 3. The method of claim 1, wherein a portion of a content item is not preferred based on the information about consumption of portions of content items, and wherein generating content portion recommendations is at least partially based on the nonpreferred portion. 4. The method of claim 1, further comprising determining a preferred genre based on the information about content consumption, and wherein the content portion recommendations are based on the preferred genre. 5. The method of claim 1, further comprising determining a preferred content item length based on the information about content consumption, and wherein the content portion recommendations are based on the preferred content item length. 6. The method of claim 1, further comprising ranking content genres contained in the information about content consumption to generate a genre ranking, and wherein ordering of the content portion recommendations is based on the genre ranking. 7. The method of claim 1, wherein the content recommendations are first content recommendations, and wherein the content portion recommendations are first content portion recommendations, the method further comprising:
receiving additional information corresponding to consumption of the content portion recommendations and of the content recommendations; generating second content recommendations using the trained model; generating second content portion recommendations based on the second content recommendations and on the additional information; and causing to be provided the second content portion recommendations. 8. The method of claim 1, wherein the information about content consumption is based on at least one of full consumption of content, partial consumption of content, or frequency of consumption of content. 9. The method of claim 1, wherein the information about content consumption is based on at least one of a time of consumption, a location of consumption, a genre of content consumed, a type of content consumed, or a control function selection made during content consumption. 10. The method of claim 1, wherein the information about content consumption comprises information about activity on a social network. 11. A system for providing content recommendations, the system comprising: communications circuitry configured to:
provide a trained model that had been updated based on information about content consumption associated with a profile, wherein the information about content consumption comprises information about consumption of portions of content items; and control circuitry configured to:
generate, using the trained model, content recommendations;
generate content portion recommendations based on the content recommendations and on the information about consumption of portions of content items; and
cause to be provided the content portion recommendations. 12. The system of claim 11, wherein a portion of a content item is preferred based on the information about consumption of portions of content items, and wherein the control circuitry is configured to generate content portion recommendations at least partially based on the preferred portion. 13. The system of claim 11, wherein a portion of a content item is not preferred based on the information about consumption of portions of content items, and wherein the control circuitry is configured to generate content portion recommendations at least partially based on the nonpreferred portion. 14. The system of claim 11, wherein the control circuitry is further configured to determine a preferred genre based on the information about content consumption, and wherein the content portion recommendations are based on the preferred genre. 15. The system of claim 11, wherein the control circuitry is further configured to determine a preferred content item length based on the information about content consumption, and wherein the content portion recommendations are based on the preferred content item length. 16. The system of claim 11, wherein the control circuitry is further configured to rank content genres contained in the information about content consumption to generate a genre ranking, and wherein ordering of the content portion recommendations is based on the genre ranking. 17. The system of claim 11, wherein the content recommendations are first content recommendations, wherein the content portion recommendations are first content portion recommendations, and wherein:
the communications circuitry is further configured to:
receive additional information corresponding to consumption of the content portion recommendations and of the content recommendations; and
the control circuitry is further configured to:
generate second content recommendations using the trained model;
generate second content portion recommendations based on the second content recommendations and on the additional information; and
cause to be provided the second content portion recommendations. 18. The system of claim 11, wherein the information about content consumption is based on at least one of full consumption of content, partial consumption of content, or frequency of consumption of content. 19. The system of claim 11, wherein the information about content consumption is based on at least one of a time of consumption, a location of consumption, a genre of content consumed, a type of content consumed, or a control function selection made during content consumption. 20. The system of claim 11, wherein the information about content consumption comprises information about activity on a social network. 21-50. (canceled) | 3,700 |
349,393 | 16,806,991 | 3,792 | Systems and methods are disclosed herein for a recommendations engine that generates content recommendations using a trained model that is personalized based on the information corresponding to content consumption. The disclosed techniques herein provide a trained model to provide content recommendations. The trained model may have been trained using a predefined set of training data agnostic of a particular user profile. A system receives information corresponding to content consumption. The system may associate the information corresponding to content consumption with a profile. The system generates a personalized model based on the information corresponding to content consumption and on the trained model. The personalized model may be associated with the user profile. The system generates the content recommendations using the personalized model. The system then causes to be provided the content recommendations. | 1. A computer-implemented method of providing a content recommendation, the method comprising:
providing a trained model to provide content recommendations, the trained model having been trained using a predefined set of training data; receiving information corresponding to content consumption; associating the information corresponding to content consumption with a profile; generating, using processing circuitry, an updated model based on the information and on the trained model, wherein the updated model is associated with the profile; generating the content recommendations using the updated model; and causing to be provided the content recommendations. 2. The method of claim 1, wherein the updated model is a first updated model and the content recommendations are first content recommendations, the method further comprising:
receiving additional information corresponding to consumption of the first content recommendations; generating, using processing circuitry, a second updated model based on the additional information and on the first updated model, wherein the second updated model is associated with the profile; generating second content recommendations using the second updated model; and causing to be provided the second content recommendations. 3. The method of claim 1, wherein the predefined set of training data is agnostic of the profile associated with the user. 4. The method of claim 1, wherein generating the content recommendations comprises generating recommendations of one or more portions of a content item using the updated model. 5. The method of claim 1, wherein the information corresponding to content consumption is based on at least one of a time of consumption, a location of consumption, a genre of content consumed, a type of content consumed, or a control function selection made during content consumption. 6. The method of claim 5, wherein the updated model is a first updated model, and wherein the content recommendations are first content recommendations, the method further comprising:
ranking content genres contained in the information corresponding to content consumption to generate a genre ranking; generating a second updated model based on the first updated model and on the genre ranking; and generating second content recommendations using the second updated model, wherein ordering of the second content recommendations is based on the genre ranking. 7. The method of claim 1, wherein the information corresponding to content consumption is based on at least one of full consumption of content, partial consumption of content, or frequency of consumption of content. 8. The method of claim 1, wherein generating the updated model comprises generating a model using a long short-term memory recurrent neural network (LSTM RNN). 9. The method of claim 8, wherein generating the model using the LSTM RNN comprises:
determining one or more states iteratively based on one or more sets of weights associated with the trained model and based on the information corresponding to content consumption; determining one or more sets of optimized weights; and generating the model based on the one or more sets of optimized weights and on the one or more states. 10. The method of claim 1, wherein the information corresponding to content consumption comprises information about activity on a social network. 11. A system for providing a content recommendation, the system comprising:
control circuitry configured to:
provide a trained model to provide content recommendations, the trained model having been trained using a predefined set of training data;
receive information corresponding to content consumption;
associate the information corresponding to content consumption with a profile;
processing circuitry configured to:
generate an updated model based on the information corresponding to content consumption and on the trained model, wherein the updated model is associated with the profile; and
wherein the control circuitry is further configured to:
generate the content recommendations using the updated model; and
cause to be provided the content recommendations. 12. The system of claim 11, wherein the updated model is a first updated model and the content recommendations are first content recommendations, and wherein:
the control circuitry is further configured to:
receive additional information corresponding to consumption of the first content recommendations;
the processing circuitry is further configured to:
generate a second updated model based on the additional information and on the first updated model, wherein the second updated model is associated with the profile; and the control circuitry is further configured to:
generate second content recommendations using the second updated model; and
cause to be provided the second content recommendations. 13. The system of claim 11, wherein the predefined set of training data is agnostic of the profile associated with the user. 14. The system of claim 11, wherein the control circuitry is configured to generate the content recommendations by generating recommendations of one or more portions of a content item using the updated model. 15. The system of claim 11, wherein the information corresponding to content consumption is based on at least one of a time of consumption, a location of consumption, a genre of content consumed, a type of content consumed, or a control function selection made during content consumption. 16. The system of claim 15, wherein the updated model is a first updated model, wherein the content recommendations are first content recommendations, and wherein:
the control circuitry is further configured to rank content genres contained in the information corresponding to content consumption to generate a genre ranking; the processing circuitry is further configured to generate a second updated model based on the first updated model and on the genre ranking; and the control circuitry is further configured to generate second content recommendations using the second updated model, wherein ordering of the second content recommendations is based on the genre ranking. 17. The system of claim 11, wherein the information corresponding to content consumption is based on at least one of full consumption of content, partial consumption of content, or frequency of consumption of content. 18. The system of claim 11, wherein the processing circuitry is configured to generate the updated model by generating a model using a long short-term memory recurrent neural network (LSTM RNN). 19. The system of claim 18, wherein generating the model using the LSTM RNN comprises:
determining one or more states iteratively based on one or more sets of weights associated with the trained model and based on the information corresponding to content consumption; determining one or more sets of optimized weights; and generating the model based on the one or more sets of optimized weights and on the one or more states. 20. The system of claim 11, wherein the information corresponding to content consumption comprises information about activity on a social network. 21-50. (canceled) | Systems and methods are disclosed herein for a recommendations engine that generates content recommendations using a trained model that is personalized based on the information corresponding to content consumption. The disclosed techniques herein provide a trained model to provide content recommendations. The trained model may have been trained using a predefined set of training data agnostic of a particular user profile. A system receives information corresponding to content consumption. The system may associate the information corresponding to content consumption with a profile. The system generates a personalized model based on the information corresponding to content consumption and on the trained model. The personalized model may be associated with the user profile. The system generates the content recommendations using the personalized model. The system then causes to be provided the content recommendations.1. A computer-implemented method of providing a content recommendation, the method comprising:
providing a trained model to provide content recommendations, the trained model having been trained using a predefined set of training data; receiving information corresponding to content consumption; associating the information corresponding to content consumption with a profile; generating, using processing circuitry, an updated model based on the information and on the trained model, wherein the updated model is associated with the profile; generating the content recommendations using the updated model; and causing to be provided the content recommendations. 2. The method of claim 1, wherein the updated model is a first updated model and the content recommendations are first content recommendations, the method further comprising:
receiving additional information corresponding to consumption of the first content recommendations; generating, using processing circuitry, a second updated model based on the additional information and on the first updated model, wherein the second updated model is associated with the profile; generating second content recommendations using the second updated model; and causing to be provided the second content recommendations. 3. The method of claim 1, wherein the predefined set of training data is agnostic of the profile associated with the user. 4. The method of claim 1, wherein generating the content recommendations comprises generating recommendations of one or more portions of a content item using the updated model. 5. The method of claim 1, wherein the information corresponding to content consumption is based on at least one of a time of consumption, a location of consumption, a genre of content consumed, a type of content consumed, or a control function selection made during content consumption. 6. The method of claim 5, wherein the updated model is a first updated model, and wherein the content recommendations are first content recommendations, the method further comprising:
ranking content genres contained in the information corresponding to content consumption to generate a genre ranking; generating a second updated model based on the first updated model and on the genre ranking; and generating second content recommendations using the second updated model, wherein ordering of the second content recommendations is based on the genre ranking. 7. The method of claim 1, wherein the information corresponding to content consumption is based on at least one of full consumption of content, partial consumption of content, or frequency of consumption of content. 8. The method of claim 1, wherein generating the updated model comprises generating a model using a long short-term memory recurrent neural network (LSTM RNN). 9. The method of claim 8, wherein generating the model using the LSTM RNN comprises:
determining one or more states iteratively based on one or more sets of weights associated with the trained model and based on the information corresponding to content consumption; determining one or more sets of optimized weights; and generating the model based on the one or more sets of optimized weights and on the one or more states. 10. The method of claim 1, wherein the information corresponding to content consumption comprises information about activity on a social network. 11. A system for providing a content recommendation, the system comprising:
control circuitry configured to:
provide a trained model to provide content recommendations, the trained model having been trained using a predefined set of training data;
receive information corresponding to content consumption;
associate the information corresponding to content consumption with a profile;
processing circuitry configured to:
generate an updated model based on the information corresponding to content consumption and on the trained model, wherein the updated model is associated with the profile; and
wherein the control circuitry is further configured to:
generate the content recommendations using the updated model; and
cause to be provided the content recommendations. 12. The system of claim 11, wherein the updated model is a first updated model and the content recommendations are first content recommendations, and wherein:
the control circuitry is further configured to:
receive additional information corresponding to consumption of the first content recommendations;
the processing circuitry is further configured to:
generate a second updated model based on the additional information and on the first updated model, wherein the second updated model is associated with the profile; and the control circuitry is further configured to:
generate second content recommendations using the second updated model; and
cause to be provided the second content recommendations. 13. The system of claim 11, wherein the predefined set of training data is agnostic of the profile associated with the user. 14. The system of claim 11, wherein the control circuitry is configured to generate the content recommendations by generating recommendations of one or more portions of a content item using the updated model. 15. The system of claim 11, wherein the information corresponding to content consumption is based on at least one of a time of consumption, a location of consumption, a genre of content consumed, a type of content consumed, or a control function selection made during content consumption. 16. The system of claim 15, wherein the updated model is a first updated model, wherein the content recommendations are first content recommendations, and wherein:
the control circuitry is further configured to rank content genres contained in the information corresponding to content consumption to generate a genre ranking; the processing circuitry is further configured to generate a second updated model based on the first updated model and on the genre ranking; and the control circuitry is further configured to generate second content recommendations using the second updated model, wherein ordering of the second content recommendations is based on the genre ranking. 17. The system of claim 11, wherein the information corresponding to content consumption is based on at least one of full consumption of content, partial consumption of content, or frequency of consumption of content. 18. The system of claim 11, wherein the processing circuitry is configured to generate the updated model by generating a model using a long short-term memory recurrent neural network (LSTM RNN). 19. The system of claim 18, wherein generating the model using the LSTM RNN comprises:
determining one or more states iteratively based on one or more sets of weights associated with the trained model and based on the information corresponding to content consumption; determining one or more sets of optimized weights; and generating the model based on the one or more sets of optimized weights and on the one or more states. 20. The system of claim 11, wherein the information corresponding to content consumption comprises information about activity on a social network. 21-50. (canceled) | 3,700 |
349,394 | 16,807,006 | 3,792 | A generative attribute optimization (“GAO”) system facilitates understanding of effects of changes of attribute values of an object on a characteristic of the object and automatically identifying attribute values to achieve a desired result for the characteristic. The GAO system trains a generator (encoder and decoder) using an attribute generative adversarial network. The GAO model includes the trained generator and a separately trained predictor model. The GAO model inputs an input image and modified attribute values and employs the encoder and the decoder to generate a modified image that is the input image modified based on the modified attribute values. The GAO model then employs the predictor model to that inputs the modified image and generate a prediction of a characteristic of the modified image. The GAO system may employ an optimizer to modify the attribute values until an objective based on the desired result is achieved. | 1. A method performed by one or more computing systems for generating a modified image corresponding to an input image, the method comprising:
applying a generator encoder to the input image to generate a latent vector representing the input image, the generator encoder and a corresponding generator decoder being trained using an attribute generative adversarial network based on attribute values of attributes of images; initializing attribute values; repeating until a termination criterion is satisfied:
applying the generator decoder to the latent vector and the attribute values to generate a modified image;
applying a predictor to the modified image to generate a prediction; and
adjusting the attribute values based on an objective for the prediction. 2. The method of claim 1 wherein the prediction is represented by a discrete variable. 3. The method of claim 1 wherein the prediction is represented by a continuous variable. 4. The method of claim 1 further comprising training the attribute generative adversarial network based on training data that include images labeled with attribute values. 5. The method of claim 1 wherein the adjusting of the attribute values applies a gradient descent technique to optimize an objective function relating to the objective. 6. The method of claim 5 wherein the objective function is a loss function. 7. A method performed by one or more computing systems for identifying attribute values of attributes of an input image so that the input image modified based on the attribute values satisfies an objective that is based on a desired prediction, the method comprising:
initializing the attribute values; and repeating until a termination criterion is satisfied:
generating a modified image that is the input image modified to have the attribute values;
applying a predictor to the modified image to generate a prediction for the modified image; and
adjusting the attribute values based on an objective function relating to satisfaction of the objective based on relation between the generated prediction and the desired prediction
wherein when the termination criterion is satisfied, the objective is satisfied by attribute values. 8. The method of claim 7 further comprising applying a generator encoder to the input image to generate a latent vector representing the image and wherein the generating of the modified image includes applying a generator decoder to the latent vector and the attribute values to generate the modified image. 9. The method of claim 8 wherein the generator encoder and the generator decoder are generated based on training an attribute generative adversarial network. 10. The method of claim 8 wherein the predictor is a classifier and the prediction is a classification. 11. The method of claim 8 wherein the image is of a physical object and the prediction is of a characteristic of the physical object. 12. The method of claim 11 wherein the predictor is trained using training data that includes images labeled with values for the characteristic. 13. The method of claim 12 wherein the image is a scanning electron microscope image of the physical object. 14. The method of claim 13 wherein the characteristic is peak stress of the physical object. 15. The method of claim 11 wherein the object is a person. 16. One or more computing systems for identifying attribute values of attributes, the one or more computing system comprising:
one or more computer-readable storage mediums for storing computer-executable instructions for controlling the one or more computing systems to:
a generator encoder that inputs an input image and outputs a latent vector representing the input image;
a generator decoder that inputs the latent vector and attribute values and outputs a modified image that is the input image modified based on the attribute values;
a predictor that inputs the modified image and outputs a prediction relating to the image; and
an optimizer that inputs the prediction, adjusts the attribute values based on the prediction and an objective for the prediction, and outputs the attribute values after adjustment
wherein the generator decoder, the predictor, and optimizer repeatedly generate modified images, generate predictions, and adjust the attribute values until the objective for the prediction is satisfied; and
one or more processors for executing the computer-executable instructions stored in the one or more computer-readable storage mediums. 17. The one or more computing systems of claim 16 wherein the generator encoder and the generator decoder are generated based on training an attribute generative adversarial network. 18. The one or more computing systems of claim 16 wherein the predictor is a classifier and the prediction is a classification. 19. The one or more computing systems of claim 16 wherein the input image is of a physical object and the prediction is of a characteristic of the physical object. 20. The one or more computing systems of claim 19 wherein the image is a scanning electron microscope image of the physical object. 21. The one or more computing systems of claim 20 wherein the characteristic is peak stress of the physical object. 22. A method performed by one or more computing systems for generating a prediction relating to an input image based on modifying attribute values of attributes of the input image, the method comprising:
accessing a latent vector representing the image; accessing modified attribute values; applying a generator decoder that inputs the latent vector and the modified attribute values and outputs a modified image that is the input image modified based on the modified attribute values; and applying a predictor that inputs the modified image and outputs the prediction relating to the modified image. 23. The method of claim 22 wherein the modified attribute values are specified by a person. 24. The method of claim 22 wherein the modified attribute values are specified by an optimizer that seeks to identify modified attribute values that result in a desired prediction. 25. The method of claim 22 further comprising applying a generator encoder to the image to generate the latent vector. 26. The method of claim 25 wherein the generator encoder and the generator decoder are generated based on training an attribute generative adversarial network. | A generative attribute optimization (“GAO”) system facilitates understanding of effects of changes of attribute values of an object on a characteristic of the object and automatically identifying attribute values to achieve a desired result for the characteristic. The GAO system trains a generator (encoder and decoder) using an attribute generative adversarial network. The GAO model includes the trained generator and a separately trained predictor model. The GAO model inputs an input image and modified attribute values and employs the encoder and the decoder to generate a modified image that is the input image modified based on the modified attribute values. The GAO model then employs the predictor model to that inputs the modified image and generate a prediction of a characteristic of the modified image. The GAO system may employ an optimizer to modify the attribute values until an objective based on the desired result is achieved.1. A method performed by one or more computing systems for generating a modified image corresponding to an input image, the method comprising:
applying a generator encoder to the input image to generate a latent vector representing the input image, the generator encoder and a corresponding generator decoder being trained using an attribute generative adversarial network based on attribute values of attributes of images; initializing attribute values; repeating until a termination criterion is satisfied:
applying the generator decoder to the latent vector and the attribute values to generate a modified image;
applying a predictor to the modified image to generate a prediction; and
adjusting the attribute values based on an objective for the prediction. 2. The method of claim 1 wherein the prediction is represented by a discrete variable. 3. The method of claim 1 wherein the prediction is represented by a continuous variable. 4. The method of claim 1 further comprising training the attribute generative adversarial network based on training data that include images labeled with attribute values. 5. The method of claim 1 wherein the adjusting of the attribute values applies a gradient descent technique to optimize an objective function relating to the objective. 6. The method of claim 5 wherein the objective function is a loss function. 7. A method performed by one or more computing systems for identifying attribute values of attributes of an input image so that the input image modified based on the attribute values satisfies an objective that is based on a desired prediction, the method comprising:
initializing the attribute values; and repeating until a termination criterion is satisfied:
generating a modified image that is the input image modified to have the attribute values;
applying a predictor to the modified image to generate a prediction for the modified image; and
adjusting the attribute values based on an objective function relating to satisfaction of the objective based on relation between the generated prediction and the desired prediction
wherein when the termination criterion is satisfied, the objective is satisfied by attribute values. 8. The method of claim 7 further comprising applying a generator encoder to the input image to generate a latent vector representing the image and wherein the generating of the modified image includes applying a generator decoder to the latent vector and the attribute values to generate the modified image. 9. The method of claim 8 wherein the generator encoder and the generator decoder are generated based on training an attribute generative adversarial network. 10. The method of claim 8 wherein the predictor is a classifier and the prediction is a classification. 11. The method of claim 8 wherein the image is of a physical object and the prediction is of a characteristic of the physical object. 12. The method of claim 11 wherein the predictor is trained using training data that includes images labeled with values for the characteristic. 13. The method of claim 12 wherein the image is a scanning electron microscope image of the physical object. 14. The method of claim 13 wherein the characteristic is peak stress of the physical object. 15. The method of claim 11 wherein the object is a person. 16. One or more computing systems for identifying attribute values of attributes, the one or more computing system comprising:
one or more computer-readable storage mediums for storing computer-executable instructions for controlling the one or more computing systems to:
a generator encoder that inputs an input image and outputs a latent vector representing the input image;
a generator decoder that inputs the latent vector and attribute values and outputs a modified image that is the input image modified based on the attribute values;
a predictor that inputs the modified image and outputs a prediction relating to the image; and
an optimizer that inputs the prediction, adjusts the attribute values based on the prediction and an objective for the prediction, and outputs the attribute values after adjustment
wherein the generator decoder, the predictor, and optimizer repeatedly generate modified images, generate predictions, and adjust the attribute values until the objective for the prediction is satisfied; and
one or more processors for executing the computer-executable instructions stored in the one or more computer-readable storage mediums. 17. The one or more computing systems of claim 16 wherein the generator encoder and the generator decoder are generated based on training an attribute generative adversarial network. 18. The one or more computing systems of claim 16 wherein the predictor is a classifier and the prediction is a classification. 19. The one or more computing systems of claim 16 wherein the input image is of a physical object and the prediction is of a characteristic of the physical object. 20. The one or more computing systems of claim 19 wherein the image is a scanning electron microscope image of the physical object. 21. The one or more computing systems of claim 20 wherein the characteristic is peak stress of the physical object. 22. A method performed by one or more computing systems for generating a prediction relating to an input image based on modifying attribute values of attributes of the input image, the method comprising:
accessing a latent vector representing the image; accessing modified attribute values; applying a generator decoder that inputs the latent vector and the modified attribute values and outputs a modified image that is the input image modified based on the modified attribute values; and applying a predictor that inputs the modified image and outputs the prediction relating to the modified image. 23. The method of claim 22 wherein the modified attribute values are specified by a person. 24. The method of claim 22 wherein the modified attribute values are specified by an optimizer that seeks to identify modified attribute values that result in a desired prediction. 25. The method of claim 22 further comprising applying a generator encoder to the image to generate the latent vector. 26. The method of claim 25 wherein the generator encoder and the generator decoder are generated based on training an attribute generative adversarial network. | 3,700 |
349,395 | 16,806,940 | 3,792 | A process management tool for managing transport of a material between a first location and a second location is disclosed. The process management tool includes a communication device configured to receive data messages, a display device, an input device configured to receive user inputs, and a processor in communication with the communication device, the display device, and the input device. The processor is configured to generate a graphical user interface on the display device. The graphical user interface includes a map indicative of a position of each of one or more transport vehicles with respect to the first location and the second location. The graphical user interface further includes a first graphical object indicative of a spacing between a first transport vehicle and a second transport vehicle of the one or more transport vehicles and a second graphical object indicative of a process parameter associated with the material. | 1. A process management tool for managing transport of an asphalt material between a first location and a second location, comprising:
a communication device configured to receive data messages; a display device; an input device configured to receive user inputs; and a processor in communication with the communication device, the display device, and the input device, wherein the processor is configured to:
generate a graphical user interface on the display device, the graphical user interface including:
a map indicative of a position of each of a plurality of work trucks with respect to the first location and the second location,
a first graphical object indicative of a spacing between at least a first work truck and a second work truck of the plurality of work trucks,
a command object to notify an operator of at least one of the first work truck and the second work truck to perform a task in order to ensure a proper spacing between the first work truck and the second work truck given road conditions and a process parameter associated with the asphalt material at the first location and/or the second location, and
a paver production object that provides an indication to adjust operation of a paver to raise or lower a groundspeed of the paver given a production rate of the asphalt material from the first location, the process parameter associated with the asphalt material, and the spacing between at least the first work truck and the second work truck. 2. The process management tool of claim 1, wherein the process parameter associated with the asphalt material includes at least one of a production temperature associated with the asphalt material at the first location and a worksite temperature associated with the asphalt material in one of a hopper of the paver or as a work surface created by the paver at the second location. 3. The process management tool of claim 2, wherein the processor is configured to, based on if the production temperature of the asphalt material at the first location falls below a minimum temperature needed to successfully transport the asphalt material from the first location to the second location before the asphalt material cools below a minimum temperature, regenerate a second graphical object indicative of the process parameter associated with the asphalt material. 4. The process management tool of claim 1, wherein the first location is an asphalt plant and the second location is an asphalt paving worksite. 5. The process management tool of claim 1, wherein the first graphical object is configured to indicate the spacing between the first work truck and the second work truck as a time or a distance. 6. The process management tool of claim 1, wherein the process parameter associated with the asphalt material is further associated with the first location and/or the second location. 7. The process management tool of claim 1, wherein the process parameter associated with the asphalt material is a production rate of the asphalt material and/or a consumption rate of the asphalt material. 8. The process management tool of claim 1, wherein the graphical user interface is configured to receive a user input via the input device, the user input being indicative of a selected working truck from among the plurality of working trucks. 9. The process management tool of claim 8, wherein the process parameter associated with the asphalt material is further associated with the selected working truck. 10. The process management tool of claim 8, wherein the process parameter associated with the asphalt material is a temperature of the asphalt material in the selected working truck. 11. The process management tool of claim 1, wherein the graphical user interface includes a third graphical object configured to display a message indicative of an operational command. 12. A method of providing a process management tool having a display device for managing transport of a hauling material between a plant and a worksite, the method comprising:
generating a graphical user interface on the display device; displaying a map on the graphical user interface, the map being indicative of a position of each of one or more transport vehicles with respect to the plant and the worksite; displaying a first graphical object on the graphical user interface, the first graphical object being indicative of a spacing between a first transport vehicle and a second transport vehicle of the one or more transport vehicles; and displaying a second graphical object on the graphical user interface, the second graphical object being indicative of a process parameter associated with the hauling material at one or more of the plant and the worksite, wherein the process parameter associated with the material includes at least one of a production temperature associated with the hauling material at the plant and a worksite temperature associated with the hauling material at the worksite, regenerating the second graphical object when the production temperature of the hauling material at the plant falls below a minimum temperature needed to successfully transport the hauling material from the plant to the worksite before the hauling material cools below a minimum temperature, regenerating the second graphical object; and displaying a command object to notify an operator of the first transport vehicle and/or the second transport vehicle to perform a task to ensure a proper spacing between the first transport vehicle and the second transport vehicle based on traffic conditions and the process parameter associated with the hauling material. 13. The method of claim 12, further comprising displaying a paver production object that provides an indication to adjust operation of a paver at the worksite to raise or lower a groundspeed of the paver based on a production rate of the hauling material at the plant, the process parameter associated with the hauling material, and a spacing between the first transport vehicle and the second transport vehicle. 14. The method of claim 12, wherein the first graphical object is configured to indicate the spacing between the first transport vehicle and the second transport vehicle as a time or a distance. 15. The method of claim 12, wherein the process parameter associated with the hauling material is further associated with the plant and/or the worksite. 16. The method of claim 12, wherein the process parameter associated with the hauling material is a material production rate and/or a material consumption rate. 17. A process management tool for managing transport of an asphalt material between an asphalt plant and an asphalt paving worksite, comprising:
a communication device configured to receive messages; a display device; an input device configured to receive user inputs; and a processor in communication with the communication device, the display device, and the input device, wherein the processor is configured to:
generate a graphical user interface on the display device, the graphical user interface including:
a map indicative of a position of each of one or more transport vehicles with respect to the asphalt plant and the asphalt paving worksite,
a first graphical object indicative of a spacing between a first transport vehicle and a second transport vehicle as a time or a distance,
a second graphical object indicative of a process parameter at the asphalt plant, wherein the process parameter includes one or more of a material production rate and a temperature, and wherein the processor is configured to, based on a drop in the material production rate or temperature at the asphalt plant, regenerate the second graphical object and update the first graphical object,
a paver production object that provides an indication to adjust operation of a paver at the asphalt paving worksite to raise or lower a groundspeed of the paver given the process parameter at the asphalt plant and the spacing between the first transport vehicle and the second transport vehicle. 18. The process management tool of claim 17, wherein the processor is an off-board processor and the graphical user interface further includes a third graphical object indicative of an operating parameter of the first transport vehicle and/or the second transport vehicle. 19. The process management tool of claim 17, wherein the graphical user interface further includes a command object to notify an operator of the first transport vehicle and/or the second transport vehicle to perform a task to maintain a suitable spacing between the first transport vehicle and the second transport vehicle based on the process parameter at the asphalt plant and/or driving characteristics between the asphalt paving plant and the asphalt paving worksite. 20. The process management tool of claim 17, wherein the process parameter associated with the asphalt material is a production rate of the asphalt material and/or a consumption rate of the asphalt material. | A process management tool for managing transport of a material between a first location and a second location is disclosed. The process management tool includes a communication device configured to receive data messages, a display device, an input device configured to receive user inputs, and a processor in communication with the communication device, the display device, and the input device. The processor is configured to generate a graphical user interface on the display device. The graphical user interface includes a map indicative of a position of each of one or more transport vehicles with respect to the first location and the second location. The graphical user interface further includes a first graphical object indicative of a spacing between a first transport vehicle and a second transport vehicle of the one or more transport vehicles and a second graphical object indicative of a process parameter associated with the material.1. A process management tool for managing transport of an asphalt material between a first location and a second location, comprising:
a communication device configured to receive data messages; a display device; an input device configured to receive user inputs; and a processor in communication with the communication device, the display device, and the input device, wherein the processor is configured to:
generate a graphical user interface on the display device, the graphical user interface including:
a map indicative of a position of each of a plurality of work trucks with respect to the first location and the second location,
a first graphical object indicative of a spacing between at least a first work truck and a second work truck of the plurality of work trucks,
a command object to notify an operator of at least one of the first work truck and the second work truck to perform a task in order to ensure a proper spacing between the first work truck and the second work truck given road conditions and a process parameter associated with the asphalt material at the first location and/or the second location, and
a paver production object that provides an indication to adjust operation of a paver to raise or lower a groundspeed of the paver given a production rate of the asphalt material from the first location, the process parameter associated with the asphalt material, and the spacing between at least the first work truck and the second work truck. 2. The process management tool of claim 1, wherein the process parameter associated with the asphalt material includes at least one of a production temperature associated with the asphalt material at the first location and a worksite temperature associated with the asphalt material in one of a hopper of the paver or as a work surface created by the paver at the second location. 3. The process management tool of claim 2, wherein the processor is configured to, based on if the production temperature of the asphalt material at the first location falls below a minimum temperature needed to successfully transport the asphalt material from the first location to the second location before the asphalt material cools below a minimum temperature, regenerate a second graphical object indicative of the process parameter associated with the asphalt material. 4. The process management tool of claim 1, wherein the first location is an asphalt plant and the second location is an asphalt paving worksite. 5. The process management tool of claim 1, wherein the first graphical object is configured to indicate the spacing between the first work truck and the second work truck as a time or a distance. 6. The process management tool of claim 1, wherein the process parameter associated with the asphalt material is further associated with the first location and/or the second location. 7. The process management tool of claim 1, wherein the process parameter associated with the asphalt material is a production rate of the asphalt material and/or a consumption rate of the asphalt material. 8. The process management tool of claim 1, wherein the graphical user interface is configured to receive a user input via the input device, the user input being indicative of a selected working truck from among the plurality of working trucks. 9. The process management tool of claim 8, wherein the process parameter associated with the asphalt material is further associated with the selected working truck. 10. The process management tool of claim 8, wherein the process parameter associated with the asphalt material is a temperature of the asphalt material in the selected working truck. 11. The process management tool of claim 1, wherein the graphical user interface includes a third graphical object configured to display a message indicative of an operational command. 12. A method of providing a process management tool having a display device for managing transport of a hauling material between a plant and a worksite, the method comprising:
generating a graphical user interface on the display device; displaying a map on the graphical user interface, the map being indicative of a position of each of one or more transport vehicles with respect to the plant and the worksite; displaying a first graphical object on the graphical user interface, the first graphical object being indicative of a spacing between a first transport vehicle and a second transport vehicle of the one or more transport vehicles; and displaying a second graphical object on the graphical user interface, the second graphical object being indicative of a process parameter associated with the hauling material at one or more of the plant and the worksite, wherein the process parameter associated with the material includes at least one of a production temperature associated with the hauling material at the plant and a worksite temperature associated with the hauling material at the worksite, regenerating the second graphical object when the production temperature of the hauling material at the plant falls below a minimum temperature needed to successfully transport the hauling material from the plant to the worksite before the hauling material cools below a minimum temperature, regenerating the second graphical object; and displaying a command object to notify an operator of the first transport vehicle and/or the second transport vehicle to perform a task to ensure a proper spacing between the first transport vehicle and the second transport vehicle based on traffic conditions and the process parameter associated with the hauling material. 13. The method of claim 12, further comprising displaying a paver production object that provides an indication to adjust operation of a paver at the worksite to raise or lower a groundspeed of the paver based on a production rate of the hauling material at the plant, the process parameter associated with the hauling material, and a spacing between the first transport vehicle and the second transport vehicle. 14. The method of claim 12, wherein the first graphical object is configured to indicate the spacing between the first transport vehicle and the second transport vehicle as a time or a distance. 15. The method of claim 12, wherein the process parameter associated with the hauling material is further associated with the plant and/or the worksite. 16. The method of claim 12, wherein the process parameter associated with the hauling material is a material production rate and/or a material consumption rate. 17. A process management tool for managing transport of an asphalt material between an asphalt plant and an asphalt paving worksite, comprising:
a communication device configured to receive messages; a display device; an input device configured to receive user inputs; and a processor in communication with the communication device, the display device, and the input device, wherein the processor is configured to:
generate a graphical user interface on the display device, the graphical user interface including:
a map indicative of a position of each of one or more transport vehicles with respect to the asphalt plant and the asphalt paving worksite,
a first graphical object indicative of a spacing between a first transport vehicle and a second transport vehicle as a time or a distance,
a second graphical object indicative of a process parameter at the asphalt plant, wherein the process parameter includes one or more of a material production rate and a temperature, and wherein the processor is configured to, based on a drop in the material production rate or temperature at the asphalt plant, regenerate the second graphical object and update the first graphical object,
a paver production object that provides an indication to adjust operation of a paver at the asphalt paving worksite to raise or lower a groundspeed of the paver given the process parameter at the asphalt plant and the spacing between the first transport vehicle and the second transport vehicle. 18. The process management tool of claim 17, wherein the processor is an off-board processor and the graphical user interface further includes a third graphical object indicative of an operating parameter of the first transport vehicle and/or the second transport vehicle. 19. The process management tool of claim 17, wherein the graphical user interface further includes a command object to notify an operator of the first transport vehicle and/or the second transport vehicle to perform a task to maintain a suitable spacing between the first transport vehicle and the second transport vehicle based on the process parameter at the asphalt plant and/or driving characteristics between the asphalt paving plant and the asphalt paving worksite. 20. The process management tool of claim 17, wherein the process parameter associated with the asphalt material is a production rate of the asphalt material and/or a consumption rate of the asphalt material. | 3,700 |
349,396 | 16,806,997 | 3,792 | An integrated circuit includes a first transistor, a second transistor, and a first insulating layer. The first transistor is disposed in a first layer and comprises a first gate. The second transistor is disposed in a second layer above the first layer and comprises a second gate. The first gate and second gate are separated from each other in a first direction. The first insulating layer is disposed between the first gate of the first transistor and the second gate of the second transistor. The first insulating layer is configured to electrically insulate the first gate of the first transistor from the second gate of the second transistor. | 1. An integrated circuit, comprising:
a first transistor that is disposed in a first layer and comprises a first gate; a second transistor that is disposed in a second layer above the first layer and comprises a second gate; wherein the first gate and second gate are separated from each other in a first direction; and a first insulating layer that is disposed between the first gate of the first transistor and the second gate of the second transistor, wherein the first insulating layer is configured to electrically insulate the first gate of the first transistor from the second gate of the second transistor. 2. The integrated circuit of claim 1, wherein the first transistor and the second transistor have different conductivity types from each other. 3. The integrated circuit of claim 1, wherein
the first transistor further comprises a first drain and a first source extending in a second direction different from the first direction; and the second transistor further comprises a second drain and a second source extending in the second direction; wherein the first drain or the first source of the first transistor overlaps the second drain of the second transistor in a plan view. 4. The integrated circuit of claim 1, further comprising:
a first conductive segment and a second conductive segment that are disposed in a third layer above the second layer; and a first via and a second via that are separated from each other in a second direction different from the first direction; wherein the first via is coupled between the first conductive segment and the first gate of the first transistor, and the second via is coupled between the second conductive segment and the second gate of the second transistor. 5. The integrated circuit of claim 1, wherein the first insulating layer comprises a first surface contacting the first gate and a second surface contacting the second gate. 6. The integrated circuit of claim 1, further comprising:
a third transistor and a fourth transistor that are disposed in the first layer and are separated from the first transistor in a second direction; and a fifth transistor and a sixth transistor that are disposed in the second layer and are separated from the second transistor in the second direction; wherein the third transistor and the fifth transistor comprise a third gate that is separated from the first gate and the second gate in the second direction, and the fourth transistor and the sixth transistor comprise a fourth gate that is disposed next to the third gate along the second direction; wherein the first gate and the third gate receive a first control signal, and the second gate and the fourth gate receive a second control signal different from the first control signal. 7. The integrated circuit of claim 6, wherein a conductive type of the third transistor and the fourth transistor is different from a conductive type of the fifth transistor and the sixth transistor. 8. The integrated circuit of claim 1, further comprising:
a third transistor that is disposed in the first layer and is separated from the first transistor in a second direction, wherein the third transistor comprises a third gate; a fourth transistor that is disposed in the second layer and is separated from the second transistor in the second direction, wherein the fourth transistor comprises a fourth gate; and a second insulating layer disposed between the third gate of the third transistor and the fourth gate of the fourth transistor, wherein the second insulating layer is configured to electrically insulate the third gate of the third transistor from the fourth gate of the fourth transistor. 9. The integrated circuit of claim 8, further comprising:
a plurality of vias; a plurality of first conductive segments disposed in a third layer above the second layer; and a second conductive segment and a third conductive segment disposed in a fourth layer above the third layer; wherein the first gate of the first transistor is coupled to the fourth gate of the fourth transistor through a first group of the plurality of vias, a first group of the plurality of first conductive segments, and the second conductive segment, and the second gate of the second transistor is coupled to the third gate of the third transistor through a second group of the plurality of vias, a second group of the plurality of first conductive segments, and the third conductive segment. 10. The integrated circuit of claim 1, wherein the first insulating layer comprises silicon dioxide, silicon nitride, silicon oxycarbide or silicon carbide insulating structure. 11. An integrated circuit, comprising:
a plurality of active areas each extending in a first direction; a plurality of gates each crossing a corresponding active area of the plurality of active areas and extending in a second direction different from the first direction, wherein the plurality of gates comprise a first gate and a second gate that partially overlap each other in a layout view, and the first gate and the second gate are separated from each other in a third direction different from the first direction and the second direction; and a plurality of vias comprising a first via and a second via, wherein the first via contacts the first gate, and the second via contacts the second gate, wherein the first via and the second via are separated from each other in the second direction. 12. The integrated circuit of claim 11, further comprising:
a first insulating layer that extends in the second direction and partially overlaps the first gate and the second gate in the layout view; wherein the first insulating layer is disposed between the first gate and the second gate. 13. The integrated circuit of claim 11, further comprising:
a plurality of conductive segments that extend in the first direction and are separated are each other in the second direction; wherein the plurality of conductive segments comprises a first conductive portion and a second conductive portion, and the first conductive portion overlaps the first via and the second conductive portion overlaps the second via in the layout view. 14. The integrated circuit of claim 11, further comprising:
a conductive segment that is coupled to the first via and extends in the first direction; wherein the plurality of gates further comprises a third gate that is apart from the first and the second gates in the first direction, and the plurality of vias further comprises a third via coupled to the third gate; wherein the first gate is coupled to the third gate through the first via, the conductive segment and a third via. 15. The integrated circuit of claim 11, further comprising:
a first insulating layer and a second insulating layer that extend in the second direction and are separated from each other in the first direction; wherein the plurality of gates comprise a third gate and a fourth gate that overlap each other in the layout view, and the first insulating layer is disposed between the first gate and the second gate and the second insulating layer is disposed between the third gate and the fourth gate. 16. The integrated circuit of claim 15, further comprising:
a plurality of first conductive segments comprising a first and a second conductive portions extending in the first direction; and a plurality of second conductive segments comprising a first conductive portion extending in the second direction; wherein the first gate is coupled to the third gate through the first via, the first and the second conductive portions of the plurality of first conductive segments, the first conductive portion of the plurality of second conductive segments, and a third via coupled to the third gate. 17. The integrated circuit of claim 11, wherein the plurality of active areas comprise:
a plurality of first active areas disposed next to the first gate; and a plurality of second active areas disposed next to the second gate; wherein the plurality of first active areas and the plurality of second active areas have different conductivity types. 18. A method, comprising:
forming a multilayer stack, wherein the multilayer stack includes a plurality of first semiconductor layers and a plurality of second semiconductor layers that are alternately stacked; forming a first source region and a first drain region on opposing sides of a first portion of the multilayer stack and forming a second source region and a second drain region on opposing sides of a second portion of the multilayer stack; removing the plurality of second semiconductor layers in the multilayer stack; forming a first gate region over the first portion of the multilayer stack; forming a first insulating layer above the first gate region; and forming a second gate region above the first insulating layer and over the second portion of the multilayer stack. 19. The method of claim 18, wherein forming the first insulating layer comprises:
filling a space between the first portion of the multilayer stack and the second portion of the multilayer stack with an insulating material. 20. The method of claim 18, further comprising:
forming a second insulating layer above the first source region and the first drain region; wherein the second insulating layer is arranged surrounding the first insulating layer. | An integrated circuit includes a first transistor, a second transistor, and a first insulating layer. The first transistor is disposed in a first layer and comprises a first gate. The second transistor is disposed in a second layer above the first layer and comprises a second gate. The first gate and second gate are separated from each other in a first direction. The first insulating layer is disposed between the first gate of the first transistor and the second gate of the second transistor. The first insulating layer is configured to electrically insulate the first gate of the first transistor from the second gate of the second transistor.1. An integrated circuit, comprising:
a first transistor that is disposed in a first layer and comprises a first gate; a second transistor that is disposed in a second layer above the first layer and comprises a second gate; wherein the first gate and second gate are separated from each other in a first direction; and a first insulating layer that is disposed between the first gate of the first transistor and the second gate of the second transistor, wherein the first insulating layer is configured to electrically insulate the first gate of the first transistor from the second gate of the second transistor. 2. The integrated circuit of claim 1, wherein the first transistor and the second transistor have different conductivity types from each other. 3. The integrated circuit of claim 1, wherein
the first transistor further comprises a first drain and a first source extending in a second direction different from the first direction; and the second transistor further comprises a second drain and a second source extending in the second direction; wherein the first drain or the first source of the first transistor overlaps the second drain of the second transistor in a plan view. 4. The integrated circuit of claim 1, further comprising:
a first conductive segment and a second conductive segment that are disposed in a third layer above the second layer; and a first via and a second via that are separated from each other in a second direction different from the first direction; wherein the first via is coupled between the first conductive segment and the first gate of the first transistor, and the second via is coupled between the second conductive segment and the second gate of the second transistor. 5. The integrated circuit of claim 1, wherein the first insulating layer comprises a first surface contacting the first gate and a second surface contacting the second gate. 6. The integrated circuit of claim 1, further comprising:
a third transistor and a fourth transistor that are disposed in the first layer and are separated from the first transistor in a second direction; and a fifth transistor and a sixth transistor that are disposed in the second layer and are separated from the second transistor in the second direction; wherein the third transistor and the fifth transistor comprise a third gate that is separated from the first gate and the second gate in the second direction, and the fourth transistor and the sixth transistor comprise a fourth gate that is disposed next to the third gate along the second direction; wherein the first gate and the third gate receive a first control signal, and the second gate and the fourth gate receive a second control signal different from the first control signal. 7. The integrated circuit of claim 6, wherein a conductive type of the third transistor and the fourth transistor is different from a conductive type of the fifth transistor and the sixth transistor. 8. The integrated circuit of claim 1, further comprising:
a third transistor that is disposed in the first layer and is separated from the first transistor in a second direction, wherein the third transistor comprises a third gate; a fourth transistor that is disposed in the second layer and is separated from the second transistor in the second direction, wherein the fourth transistor comprises a fourth gate; and a second insulating layer disposed between the third gate of the third transistor and the fourth gate of the fourth transistor, wherein the second insulating layer is configured to electrically insulate the third gate of the third transistor from the fourth gate of the fourth transistor. 9. The integrated circuit of claim 8, further comprising:
a plurality of vias; a plurality of first conductive segments disposed in a third layer above the second layer; and a second conductive segment and a third conductive segment disposed in a fourth layer above the third layer; wherein the first gate of the first transistor is coupled to the fourth gate of the fourth transistor through a first group of the plurality of vias, a first group of the plurality of first conductive segments, and the second conductive segment, and the second gate of the second transistor is coupled to the third gate of the third transistor through a second group of the plurality of vias, a second group of the plurality of first conductive segments, and the third conductive segment. 10. The integrated circuit of claim 1, wherein the first insulating layer comprises silicon dioxide, silicon nitride, silicon oxycarbide or silicon carbide insulating structure. 11. An integrated circuit, comprising:
a plurality of active areas each extending in a first direction; a plurality of gates each crossing a corresponding active area of the plurality of active areas and extending in a second direction different from the first direction, wherein the plurality of gates comprise a first gate and a second gate that partially overlap each other in a layout view, and the first gate and the second gate are separated from each other in a third direction different from the first direction and the second direction; and a plurality of vias comprising a first via and a second via, wherein the first via contacts the first gate, and the second via contacts the second gate, wherein the first via and the second via are separated from each other in the second direction. 12. The integrated circuit of claim 11, further comprising:
a first insulating layer that extends in the second direction and partially overlaps the first gate and the second gate in the layout view; wherein the first insulating layer is disposed between the first gate and the second gate. 13. The integrated circuit of claim 11, further comprising:
a plurality of conductive segments that extend in the first direction and are separated are each other in the second direction; wherein the plurality of conductive segments comprises a first conductive portion and a second conductive portion, and the first conductive portion overlaps the first via and the second conductive portion overlaps the second via in the layout view. 14. The integrated circuit of claim 11, further comprising:
a conductive segment that is coupled to the first via and extends in the first direction; wherein the plurality of gates further comprises a third gate that is apart from the first and the second gates in the first direction, and the plurality of vias further comprises a third via coupled to the third gate; wherein the first gate is coupled to the third gate through the first via, the conductive segment and a third via. 15. The integrated circuit of claim 11, further comprising:
a first insulating layer and a second insulating layer that extend in the second direction and are separated from each other in the first direction; wherein the plurality of gates comprise a third gate and a fourth gate that overlap each other in the layout view, and the first insulating layer is disposed between the first gate and the second gate and the second insulating layer is disposed between the third gate and the fourth gate. 16. The integrated circuit of claim 15, further comprising:
a plurality of first conductive segments comprising a first and a second conductive portions extending in the first direction; and a plurality of second conductive segments comprising a first conductive portion extending in the second direction; wherein the first gate is coupled to the third gate through the first via, the first and the second conductive portions of the plurality of first conductive segments, the first conductive portion of the plurality of second conductive segments, and a third via coupled to the third gate. 17. The integrated circuit of claim 11, wherein the plurality of active areas comprise:
a plurality of first active areas disposed next to the first gate; and a plurality of second active areas disposed next to the second gate; wherein the plurality of first active areas and the plurality of second active areas have different conductivity types. 18. A method, comprising:
forming a multilayer stack, wherein the multilayer stack includes a plurality of first semiconductor layers and a plurality of second semiconductor layers that are alternately stacked; forming a first source region and a first drain region on opposing sides of a first portion of the multilayer stack and forming a second source region and a second drain region on opposing sides of a second portion of the multilayer stack; removing the plurality of second semiconductor layers in the multilayer stack; forming a first gate region over the first portion of the multilayer stack; forming a first insulating layer above the first gate region; and forming a second gate region above the first insulating layer and over the second portion of the multilayer stack. 19. The method of claim 18, wherein forming the first insulating layer comprises:
filling a space between the first portion of the multilayer stack and the second portion of the multilayer stack with an insulating material. 20. The method of claim 18, further comprising:
forming a second insulating layer above the first source region and the first drain region; wherein the second insulating layer is arranged surrounding the first insulating layer. | 3,700 |
349,397 | 16,806,963 | 3,792 | The present disclosure provides pharmaceutical agents of the formula: | 1. A method of making a compound of Formula (I-a), comprising the step of coupling the carboxylic acid group of the compound of Formula (A): 2. The method of claim 1, wherein X is —F, —Cl, or —Br. 3. The method of claim 2, wherein X is —Cl or —Br. 4. The method of claim 1, wherein Y is —OCF3, —CHF2, —CF3, or —CH3. 5. The method of claim 3, wherein Y is —OCF3, —CHF2 or —CF3. 6. The method of claim 1 further comprises converting the ester of Formula (I-a) to a carboxylic acid using an inorganic base to form compound of Formula (I): 7. The method of claim 6, wherein the inorganic base is a metal hydroxide selected from the group consisting of hydroxides of sodium, potassium, lithium, calcium, magnesium, iron, zinc, copper, manganese, and aluminum. 8. The method of claim 7, wherein the inorganic base is lithium hydroxide. 9. The method of claim 1 wherein the compound of Formula (B) is synthesized by coupling compound of Formula (D) 10. The method of claim 9, wherein the mineral acid is selected from the group consisting of HCl, HNO3, H3PO4, H2SO4, HBr, and HClO4. 11. A method of making a compound of Formula (I), comprising the step of coupling the carboxylic acid group of the compound of Formula (C): 12. The method of claim 11, wherein X is —F, —Cl, or —Br. 13. The method of claim 12, wherein X is —Cl or —Br. 14. The method of claim 11, wherein Y is —OCF3, —CHF2, —CF3, or —CH3. 15. The method of claim 13, wherein Y is —OCF3, —CHF2 or —CF3. 16. The method of claim 11 further comprises converting the ester of Formula (I-a) to a carboxylic acid using an inorganic base to form compound of Formula (I): 17. The method of claim 16, wherein the inorganic base is a metal hydroxide selected from the group consisting of hydroxides of sodium, potassium, lithium, calcium, magnesium, iron, zinc, copper, manganese, and aluminum. 18. The method of claim 17, wherein the inorganic base is lithium hydroxide. 19. The method of claim 11, wherein the compound of Formula (D) is synthesized by a method comprising treatment of compound of Formula (D-2) 20. The method of claim 19, wherein the compound of Formula (D-2) is synthesized by a method comprising treatment of compound of Formula (D-1) 21. A compound of Formula (B): 22. The compound of claim 21, wherein X is —F, —Cl, or —Br. 23. The compound of claim 22, wherein X is —Cl or —Br. 24. The compound of claim 21, wherein Y is —OCF3, —CHF2, —CF3, or —CH3. 25. The compound of claim 23, wherein Y is —OCF3, —CHF2 or —CF3. 26. A method of making the compound of Formula (B) of claim 21, wherein the compound is synthesized by coupling compound of Formula (D) 27. The method of claim 26, wherein X is —F, —Cl, or —Br. 28. The method of claim 27, wherein X is —Cl or —Br. 29. The method of claim 26, wherein Y is —OCF3, —CHF2, —CF3, or —CH3. 30. The method of claim 28, wherein Y is —OCF3, —CHF2 or —CF3. 31. A compound of Formula (D-2): 32. The compound of claim 31, wherein X is —F, —Cl, or —Br. 33. The compound of claim 32, wherein X is —Cl or —Br. 34. The compound of claim 31, wherein Y is —OCF3, —CHF2, —CF3, or —CH3. 35. The compound of claim 33, wherein Y is —OCF3, —CHF2 or —CF3. 36. A method of making the compound of Formula (D-2) of claim 31, wherein the compound is synthesized by treatment of compound of Formula (D-1) 37. The method of claim 36, wherein X is —F, —Cl, or —Br. 38. The method of claim 37, wherein X is —Cl or —Br. 39. The method of claim 36, wherein Y is —OCF3, —CHF2, —CF3, or —CH3. 40. The method of claim 38, wherein Y is —OCF3, —CHF2 or —CF3. 41. A compound of Formula (D): 42. The compound of claim 41, wherein X is —F, —Cl, or —Br. 43. The compound of claim 42, wherein X is —Cl or —Br. 44. The compound of claim 41, wherein Y is —OCF3, —CHF2, —CF3, or —CH3. 45. The compound of claim 43, wherein Y is —OCF3, —CHF2 or —CF3. 46. A method of making the compound of Formula (D) of claim 41 wherein the compound is synthesized by treatment of compound of Formula (D-2) 47. The method of claim 46, wherein X is —F, —Cl, or —Br. 48. The method of claim 47, wherein X is —Cl or —Br. 49. The method of claim 46, wherein Y is —OCF3, —CHF2, —CF3, or —CH3. 50. The method of claim 48 wherein Y is —OCF3, —CHF2 or —CF3. | The present disclosure provides pharmaceutical agents of the formula:1. A method of making a compound of Formula (I-a), comprising the step of coupling the carboxylic acid group of the compound of Formula (A): 2. The method of claim 1, wherein X is —F, —Cl, or —Br. 3. The method of claim 2, wherein X is —Cl or —Br. 4. The method of claim 1, wherein Y is —OCF3, —CHF2, —CF3, or —CH3. 5. The method of claim 3, wherein Y is —OCF3, —CHF2 or —CF3. 6. The method of claim 1 further comprises converting the ester of Formula (I-a) to a carboxylic acid using an inorganic base to form compound of Formula (I): 7. The method of claim 6, wherein the inorganic base is a metal hydroxide selected from the group consisting of hydroxides of sodium, potassium, lithium, calcium, magnesium, iron, zinc, copper, manganese, and aluminum. 8. The method of claim 7, wherein the inorganic base is lithium hydroxide. 9. The method of claim 1 wherein the compound of Formula (B) is synthesized by coupling compound of Formula (D) 10. The method of claim 9, wherein the mineral acid is selected from the group consisting of HCl, HNO3, H3PO4, H2SO4, HBr, and HClO4. 11. A method of making a compound of Formula (I), comprising the step of coupling the carboxylic acid group of the compound of Formula (C): 12. The method of claim 11, wherein X is —F, —Cl, or —Br. 13. The method of claim 12, wherein X is —Cl or —Br. 14. The method of claim 11, wherein Y is —OCF3, —CHF2, —CF3, or —CH3. 15. The method of claim 13, wherein Y is —OCF3, —CHF2 or —CF3. 16. The method of claim 11 further comprises converting the ester of Formula (I-a) to a carboxylic acid using an inorganic base to form compound of Formula (I): 17. The method of claim 16, wherein the inorganic base is a metal hydroxide selected from the group consisting of hydroxides of sodium, potassium, lithium, calcium, magnesium, iron, zinc, copper, manganese, and aluminum. 18. The method of claim 17, wherein the inorganic base is lithium hydroxide. 19. The method of claim 11, wherein the compound of Formula (D) is synthesized by a method comprising treatment of compound of Formula (D-2) 20. The method of claim 19, wherein the compound of Formula (D-2) is synthesized by a method comprising treatment of compound of Formula (D-1) 21. A compound of Formula (B): 22. The compound of claim 21, wherein X is —F, —Cl, or —Br. 23. The compound of claim 22, wherein X is —Cl or —Br. 24. The compound of claim 21, wherein Y is —OCF3, —CHF2, —CF3, or —CH3. 25. The compound of claim 23, wherein Y is —OCF3, —CHF2 or —CF3. 26. A method of making the compound of Formula (B) of claim 21, wherein the compound is synthesized by coupling compound of Formula (D) 27. The method of claim 26, wherein X is —F, —Cl, or —Br. 28. The method of claim 27, wherein X is —Cl or —Br. 29. The method of claim 26, wherein Y is —OCF3, —CHF2, —CF3, or —CH3. 30. The method of claim 28, wherein Y is —OCF3, —CHF2 or —CF3. 31. A compound of Formula (D-2): 32. The compound of claim 31, wherein X is —F, —Cl, or —Br. 33. The compound of claim 32, wherein X is —Cl or —Br. 34. The compound of claim 31, wherein Y is —OCF3, —CHF2, —CF3, or —CH3. 35. The compound of claim 33, wherein Y is —OCF3, —CHF2 or —CF3. 36. A method of making the compound of Formula (D-2) of claim 31, wherein the compound is synthesized by treatment of compound of Formula (D-1) 37. The method of claim 36, wherein X is —F, —Cl, or —Br. 38. The method of claim 37, wherein X is —Cl or —Br. 39. The method of claim 36, wherein Y is —OCF3, —CHF2, —CF3, or —CH3. 40. The method of claim 38, wherein Y is —OCF3, —CHF2 or —CF3. 41. A compound of Formula (D): 42. The compound of claim 41, wherein X is —F, —Cl, or —Br. 43. The compound of claim 42, wherein X is —Cl or —Br. 44. The compound of claim 41, wherein Y is —OCF3, —CHF2, —CF3, or —CH3. 45. The compound of claim 43, wherein Y is —OCF3, —CHF2 or —CF3. 46. A method of making the compound of Formula (D) of claim 41 wherein the compound is synthesized by treatment of compound of Formula (D-2) 47. The method of claim 46, wherein X is —F, —Cl, or —Br. 48. The method of claim 47, wherein X is —Cl or —Br. 49. The method of claim 46, wherein Y is —OCF3, —CHF2, —CF3, or —CH3. 50. The method of claim 48 wherein Y is —OCF3, —CHF2 or —CF3. | 3,700 |
349,398 | 16,806,982 | 3,792 | Automatic Gain Control (AGC) system for multi-channel signals attenuates an incoming multi-channel signal by providing a gain. The system further adjusts each individual channel, of the multi-channel signal, by supplying a second gain if needed. The AGC system is designed to ensure a received signal power is at an optimal level for analog to digital conversion or any other form of signal processing. The system also enables elimination of mid-packet gain adjustments. | 1. An automatic gain controller (AGC) to control a variable gain amplifier (VGA) implemented within a multi-channel receiver, the multi-channel receiver comprising the VGA operable to adjust gain of a multi-channel signal, an analog to digital converter (ADC) operable to digitize the output of the VGA and a plurality of digital filters operable to filter the output of the ADC into a plurality of individual channels of different frequencies, the AGC operable to:
apply a first nominal analog gain to an incoming multi-channel signal to ensure a total power level of the multi-channel signal output from the VGA is at a desired acquisition threshold for the ADC; and apply the first nominal analog gain as a first fixed nominal analog gain to all incoming multi-channel signals unless the total power level of the multi-channel signal output from the VGA is above a high power threshold for the ADC or below a low power threshold for the ADC. 2. The AGC according to claim 1 further operable, if the total power level of the multi-channel signal output from the VGA becomes above the high power threshold for the ADC, to apply a second nominal analog gain to the multi-channel signal to ensure the total power level of the multi-channel signal output from the VGA is at the desired acquisition threshold for the ADC. 3. The AGC according to claim 2 further operable to subsequently apply the second nominal analog gain as a second fixed nominal analog gain to all incoming multi-channel signals unless the total power level of the multi-channel signal output from the VGA is above the high power threshold for the ADC or below the low power threshold for the ADC. 4. The AGC according to claim 1 further operable, if the total power level of the multi-channel signal output from the VGA is below the low power threshold for the ADC, to:
determine if a packet is being processed on any of the individual channels, and apply the first nominal analog gain to the multi-channel signal until no packets are being processed on any of the individual channels. 5. The AGC according to claim 4 further operable, if the total power level of the multi-channel signal output from the VGA is below the low power threshold for the ADC and no packet is being processed on any of the individual channels, to apply a third nominal analog gain to the multi-channel signal to ensure the total power level of the multi-channel signal output from the VGA is at the desired acquisition threshold for the ADC. 6. A system incorporating the AGC according to claim 1, the system further comprising the VGA controlled by the AGC, the ADC operable to digitize the multi-channel signal output from the VGA, and the plurality of digital filters operable to filter the output of the ADC into the plurality of individual channels of different frequencies. 7. The system according to claim 6 further comprising a plurality of modems, each of the modems operable to demodulate one of the individual channels; wherein the AGC is further operable, if the total power level of the multi-channel signal output from the VGA is below the low power threshold for the ADC, to: determine if a packet is being processed by any of the modems, and apply the first nominal analog gain to the multi-channel signal until no packets are being processed by any of the modems. 8. A method of controlling a gain amplifier for a multi-channel signal prior to digitizing the multi-channel signal and filtering the digitized multi-channel signal into a plurality of individual channels, the method comprising:
applying a first nominal analog gain to an incoming multi-channel signal to ensure a total power level of the multi-channel signal output from the gain amplifier is at a desired acquisition threshold for digitizing; and applying the first nominal analog gain as a first fixed nominal analog gain to all incoming multi-channel signals unless the total power level of the multi-channel signal output from the gain amplifier is above a high power threshold for digitizing or below a low power threshold for digitizing. 9. The method according to claim 8 further comprising: if the total power level of the multi-channel signal output from the gain amplifier becomes above the high power threshold for digitizing, applying a second nominal analog gain to the multi-channel signal to ensure the total power level of the multi-channel signal output from the gain amplifier is at the desired acquisition threshold for digitizing. 10. The method according to claim 9 further comprising: subsequently applying the second nominal analog gain as a second fixed nominal analog gain to all incoming multi-channel signals unless the total power level of the multi-channel signal output from the gain amplifier is above the high power threshold for digitizing or below the low power threshold for digitizing. 11. The method according to claim 8 further comprising: if the total power level of the multi-channel signal output from the gain amplifier is below the low power threshold for digitizing, determining if a packet is being processed on any of the individual channels into which the multi-channel signal is filtered, and applying the first nominal analog gain to the multi-channel signal until no packets are being processed on any of the individual channels. 12. The method according to claim 11 further comprising: if the total power level of the multi-channel signal output from the gain amplifier is below the low power threshold for digitizing and no packet is being processed on any of the individual channels, applying a third nominal analog gain to the multi-channel signal to ensure the total power level of the multi-channel signal output from the gain amplifier is at the desired acquisition threshold for digitizing. 13. The method according to claim 8 further comprising digitizing the multi-channel signal output from the gain amplifier and filtering the digitized multi-channel signal into the plurality of individual channels. 14. The method according to claim 13 further comprising demodulating each of the individual channels with a corresponding modem; wherein the method further comprises: if the total power level of the multi-channel signal output from the gain amplifier is below the low power threshold for the digitizing, determining if a packet is being processed by any of the modems, and applying the first nominal analog gain to the multi-channel signal until no packets are being processed by any of the modems. 15. A multi-channel receiver comprising:
a variable gain amplifier (VGA) operable to adjust gain of a multi-channel signal; an analog to digital converter (ADC) operable to digitize the output of the VGA; a plurality of digital filters operable to filter the output of the ADC into a plurality of individual channels of different frequencies; and an automatic gain controller (AGC) operable to control the VGA to apply a first nominal analog gain to an incoming multi-channel signal to ensure a total power level of the multi-channel signal output from the VGA is at a desired acquisition threshold for the ADC; and apply the first nominal analog gain as a first fixed nominal analog gain to all incoming multi-channel signals unless the total power level of the multi-channel signal output from the VGA is above a high power threshold for the ADC or below a low power threshold for the ADC. 16. The multi-channel receiver according to claim 15, wherein the AGC is further operable, if the total power level of the multi-channel signal output from the VGA becomes above the high power threshold for the ADC, to apply a second nominal analog gain to the multi-channel signal to ensure the total power level of the multi-channel signal output from the VGA is at the desired acquisition threshold for the ADC. 17. The multi-channel receiver according to claim 16, wherein the AGC is further operable to subsequently apply the second nominal analog gain as a second fixed nominal analog gain to all incoming multi-channel signals unless the total power level of the multi-channel signal output from the VGA is above the high power threshold for the ADC or below the low power threshold for the ADC. 18. The multi-channel receiver according to claim 15, wherein the AGC is further operable, if the total power level of the multi-channel signal output from the VGA is below the low power threshold for the ADC, to: determine if a packet is being processed on any of the individual channels, and apply the first nominal analog gain to the multi-channel signal until no packets are being processed on any of the individual channels. 19. The multi-channel receiver according to claim 18, wherein the AGC is further operable, if the total power level of the multi-channel signal output from the VGA is below the low power threshold for the ADC and no packet is being processed on any of the individual channels, to apply a third nominal analog gain to the multi-channel signal to ensure the total power level of the multi-channel signal output from the VGA is at the desired acquisition threshold for the ADC. 20. The multi-channel receiver according to claim 15 further comprising a plurality of modems, each of the modems operable to demodulate one of the individual channels; and wherein the AGC is further operable, if the total power level of the multi-channel signal output from the VGA is below the low power threshold for the ADC, to: determine if a packet is being processed by any of the modems, and applying the first nominal analog gain to the multi-channel signal until no packets are being processed by any of the modems. | Automatic Gain Control (AGC) system for multi-channel signals attenuates an incoming multi-channel signal by providing a gain. The system further adjusts each individual channel, of the multi-channel signal, by supplying a second gain if needed. The AGC system is designed to ensure a received signal power is at an optimal level for analog to digital conversion or any other form of signal processing. The system also enables elimination of mid-packet gain adjustments.1. An automatic gain controller (AGC) to control a variable gain amplifier (VGA) implemented within a multi-channel receiver, the multi-channel receiver comprising the VGA operable to adjust gain of a multi-channel signal, an analog to digital converter (ADC) operable to digitize the output of the VGA and a plurality of digital filters operable to filter the output of the ADC into a plurality of individual channels of different frequencies, the AGC operable to:
apply a first nominal analog gain to an incoming multi-channel signal to ensure a total power level of the multi-channel signal output from the VGA is at a desired acquisition threshold for the ADC; and apply the first nominal analog gain as a first fixed nominal analog gain to all incoming multi-channel signals unless the total power level of the multi-channel signal output from the VGA is above a high power threshold for the ADC or below a low power threshold for the ADC. 2. The AGC according to claim 1 further operable, if the total power level of the multi-channel signal output from the VGA becomes above the high power threshold for the ADC, to apply a second nominal analog gain to the multi-channel signal to ensure the total power level of the multi-channel signal output from the VGA is at the desired acquisition threshold for the ADC. 3. The AGC according to claim 2 further operable to subsequently apply the second nominal analog gain as a second fixed nominal analog gain to all incoming multi-channel signals unless the total power level of the multi-channel signal output from the VGA is above the high power threshold for the ADC or below the low power threshold for the ADC. 4. The AGC according to claim 1 further operable, if the total power level of the multi-channel signal output from the VGA is below the low power threshold for the ADC, to:
determine if a packet is being processed on any of the individual channels, and apply the first nominal analog gain to the multi-channel signal until no packets are being processed on any of the individual channels. 5. The AGC according to claim 4 further operable, if the total power level of the multi-channel signal output from the VGA is below the low power threshold for the ADC and no packet is being processed on any of the individual channels, to apply a third nominal analog gain to the multi-channel signal to ensure the total power level of the multi-channel signal output from the VGA is at the desired acquisition threshold for the ADC. 6. A system incorporating the AGC according to claim 1, the system further comprising the VGA controlled by the AGC, the ADC operable to digitize the multi-channel signal output from the VGA, and the plurality of digital filters operable to filter the output of the ADC into the plurality of individual channels of different frequencies. 7. The system according to claim 6 further comprising a plurality of modems, each of the modems operable to demodulate one of the individual channels; wherein the AGC is further operable, if the total power level of the multi-channel signal output from the VGA is below the low power threshold for the ADC, to: determine if a packet is being processed by any of the modems, and apply the first nominal analog gain to the multi-channel signal until no packets are being processed by any of the modems. 8. A method of controlling a gain amplifier for a multi-channel signal prior to digitizing the multi-channel signal and filtering the digitized multi-channel signal into a plurality of individual channels, the method comprising:
applying a first nominal analog gain to an incoming multi-channel signal to ensure a total power level of the multi-channel signal output from the gain amplifier is at a desired acquisition threshold for digitizing; and applying the first nominal analog gain as a first fixed nominal analog gain to all incoming multi-channel signals unless the total power level of the multi-channel signal output from the gain amplifier is above a high power threshold for digitizing or below a low power threshold for digitizing. 9. The method according to claim 8 further comprising: if the total power level of the multi-channel signal output from the gain amplifier becomes above the high power threshold for digitizing, applying a second nominal analog gain to the multi-channel signal to ensure the total power level of the multi-channel signal output from the gain amplifier is at the desired acquisition threshold for digitizing. 10. The method according to claim 9 further comprising: subsequently applying the second nominal analog gain as a second fixed nominal analog gain to all incoming multi-channel signals unless the total power level of the multi-channel signal output from the gain amplifier is above the high power threshold for digitizing or below the low power threshold for digitizing. 11. The method according to claim 8 further comprising: if the total power level of the multi-channel signal output from the gain amplifier is below the low power threshold for digitizing, determining if a packet is being processed on any of the individual channels into which the multi-channel signal is filtered, and applying the first nominal analog gain to the multi-channel signal until no packets are being processed on any of the individual channels. 12. The method according to claim 11 further comprising: if the total power level of the multi-channel signal output from the gain amplifier is below the low power threshold for digitizing and no packet is being processed on any of the individual channels, applying a third nominal analog gain to the multi-channel signal to ensure the total power level of the multi-channel signal output from the gain amplifier is at the desired acquisition threshold for digitizing. 13. The method according to claim 8 further comprising digitizing the multi-channel signal output from the gain amplifier and filtering the digitized multi-channel signal into the plurality of individual channels. 14. The method according to claim 13 further comprising demodulating each of the individual channels with a corresponding modem; wherein the method further comprises: if the total power level of the multi-channel signal output from the gain amplifier is below the low power threshold for the digitizing, determining if a packet is being processed by any of the modems, and applying the first nominal analog gain to the multi-channel signal until no packets are being processed by any of the modems. 15. A multi-channel receiver comprising:
a variable gain amplifier (VGA) operable to adjust gain of a multi-channel signal; an analog to digital converter (ADC) operable to digitize the output of the VGA; a plurality of digital filters operable to filter the output of the ADC into a plurality of individual channels of different frequencies; and an automatic gain controller (AGC) operable to control the VGA to apply a first nominal analog gain to an incoming multi-channel signal to ensure a total power level of the multi-channel signal output from the VGA is at a desired acquisition threshold for the ADC; and apply the first nominal analog gain as a first fixed nominal analog gain to all incoming multi-channel signals unless the total power level of the multi-channel signal output from the VGA is above a high power threshold for the ADC or below a low power threshold for the ADC. 16. The multi-channel receiver according to claim 15, wherein the AGC is further operable, if the total power level of the multi-channel signal output from the VGA becomes above the high power threshold for the ADC, to apply a second nominal analog gain to the multi-channel signal to ensure the total power level of the multi-channel signal output from the VGA is at the desired acquisition threshold for the ADC. 17. The multi-channel receiver according to claim 16, wherein the AGC is further operable to subsequently apply the second nominal analog gain as a second fixed nominal analog gain to all incoming multi-channel signals unless the total power level of the multi-channel signal output from the VGA is above the high power threshold for the ADC or below the low power threshold for the ADC. 18. The multi-channel receiver according to claim 15, wherein the AGC is further operable, if the total power level of the multi-channel signal output from the VGA is below the low power threshold for the ADC, to: determine if a packet is being processed on any of the individual channels, and apply the first nominal analog gain to the multi-channel signal until no packets are being processed on any of the individual channels. 19. The multi-channel receiver according to claim 18, wherein the AGC is further operable, if the total power level of the multi-channel signal output from the VGA is below the low power threshold for the ADC and no packet is being processed on any of the individual channels, to apply a third nominal analog gain to the multi-channel signal to ensure the total power level of the multi-channel signal output from the VGA is at the desired acquisition threshold for the ADC. 20. The multi-channel receiver according to claim 15 further comprising a plurality of modems, each of the modems operable to demodulate one of the individual channels; and wherein the AGC is further operable, if the total power level of the multi-channel signal output from the VGA is below the low power threshold for the ADC, to: determine if a packet is being processed by any of the modems, and applying the first nominal analog gain to the multi-channel signal until no packets are being processed by any of the modems. | 3,700 |
349,399 | 16,806,983 | 3,792 | Automatic Gain Control (AGC) system for multi-channel signals attenuates an incoming multi-channel signal by providing a gain. The system further adjusts each individual channel, of the multi-channel signal, by supplying a second gain if needed. The AGC system is designed to ensure a received signal power is at an optimal level for analog to digital conversion or any other form of signal processing. The system also enables elimination of mid-packet gain adjustments. | 1. An automatic gain controller (AGC) to control a variable gain amplifier (VGA) implemented within a multi-channel receiver, the multi-channel receiver comprising the VGA operable to adjust gain of a multi-channel signal, an analog to digital converter (ADC) operable to digitize the output of the VGA and a plurality of digital filters operable to filter the output of the ADC into a plurality of individual channels of different frequencies, the AGC operable to:
apply a first nominal analog gain to an incoming multi-channel signal to ensure a total power level of the multi-channel signal output from the VGA is at a desired acquisition threshold for the ADC; and apply the first nominal analog gain as a first fixed nominal analog gain to all incoming multi-channel signals unless the total power level of the multi-channel signal output from the VGA is above a high power threshold for the ADC or below a low power threshold for the ADC. 2. The AGC according to claim 1 further operable, if the total power level of the multi-channel signal output from the VGA becomes above the high power threshold for the ADC, to apply a second nominal analog gain to the multi-channel signal to ensure the total power level of the multi-channel signal output from the VGA is at the desired acquisition threshold for the ADC. 3. The AGC according to claim 2 further operable to subsequently apply the second nominal analog gain as a second fixed nominal analog gain to all incoming multi-channel signals unless the total power level of the multi-channel signal output from the VGA is above the high power threshold for the ADC or below the low power threshold for the ADC. 4. The AGC according to claim 1 further operable, if the total power level of the multi-channel signal output from the VGA is below the low power threshold for the ADC, to:
determine if a packet is being processed on any of the individual channels, and apply the first nominal analog gain to the multi-channel signal until no packets are being processed on any of the individual channels. 5. The AGC according to claim 4 further operable, if the total power level of the multi-channel signal output from the VGA is below the low power threshold for the ADC and no packet is being processed on any of the individual channels, to apply a third nominal analog gain to the multi-channel signal to ensure the total power level of the multi-channel signal output from the VGA is at the desired acquisition threshold for the ADC. 6. A system incorporating the AGC according to claim 1, the system further comprising the VGA controlled by the AGC, the ADC operable to digitize the multi-channel signal output from the VGA, and the plurality of digital filters operable to filter the output of the ADC into the plurality of individual channels of different frequencies. 7. The system according to claim 6 further comprising a plurality of modems, each of the modems operable to demodulate one of the individual channels; wherein the AGC is further operable, if the total power level of the multi-channel signal output from the VGA is below the low power threshold for the ADC, to: determine if a packet is being processed by any of the modems, and apply the first nominal analog gain to the multi-channel signal until no packets are being processed by any of the modems. 8. A method of controlling a gain amplifier for a multi-channel signal prior to digitizing the multi-channel signal and filtering the digitized multi-channel signal into a plurality of individual channels, the method comprising:
applying a first nominal analog gain to an incoming multi-channel signal to ensure a total power level of the multi-channel signal output from the gain amplifier is at a desired acquisition threshold for digitizing; and applying the first nominal analog gain as a first fixed nominal analog gain to all incoming multi-channel signals unless the total power level of the multi-channel signal output from the gain amplifier is above a high power threshold for digitizing or below a low power threshold for digitizing. 9. The method according to claim 8 further comprising: if the total power level of the multi-channel signal output from the gain amplifier becomes above the high power threshold for digitizing, applying a second nominal analog gain to the multi-channel signal to ensure the total power level of the multi-channel signal output from the gain amplifier is at the desired acquisition threshold for digitizing. 10. The method according to claim 9 further comprising: subsequently applying the second nominal analog gain as a second fixed nominal analog gain to all incoming multi-channel signals unless the total power level of the multi-channel signal output from the gain amplifier is above the high power threshold for digitizing or below the low power threshold for digitizing. 11. The method according to claim 8 further comprising: if the total power level of the multi-channel signal output from the gain amplifier is below the low power threshold for digitizing, determining if a packet is being processed on any of the individual channels into which the multi-channel signal is filtered, and applying the first nominal analog gain to the multi-channel signal until no packets are being processed on any of the individual channels. 12. The method according to claim 11 further comprising: if the total power level of the multi-channel signal output from the gain amplifier is below the low power threshold for digitizing and no packet is being processed on any of the individual channels, applying a third nominal analog gain to the multi-channel signal to ensure the total power level of the multi-channel signal output from the gain amplifier is at the desired acquisition threshold for digitizing. 13. The method according to claim 8 further comprising digitizing the multi-channel signal output from the gain amplifier and filtering the digitized multi-channel signal into the plurality of individual channels. 14. The method according to claim 13 further comprising demodulating each of the individual channels with a corresponding modem; wherein the method further comprises: if the total power level of the multi-channel signal output from the gain amplifier is below the low power threshold for the digitizing, determining if a packet is being processed by any of the modems, and applying the first nominal analog gain to the multi-channel signal until no packets are being processed by any of the modems. 15. A multi-channel receiver comprising:
a variable gain amplifier (VGA) operable to adjust gain of a multi-channel signal; an analog to digital converter (ADC) operable to digitize the output of the VGA; a plurality of digital filters operable to filter the output of the ADC into a plurality of individual channels of different frequencies; and an automatic gain controller (AGC) operable to control the VGA to apply a first nominal analog gain to an incoming multi-channel signal to ensure a total power level of the multi-channel signal output from the VGA is at a desired acquisition threshold for the ADC; and apply the first nominal analog gain as a first fixed nominal analog gain to all incoming multi-channel signals unless the total power level of the multi-channel signal output from the VGA is above a high power threshold for the ADC or below a low power threshold for the ADC. 16. The multi-channel receiver according to claim 15, wherein the AGC is further operable, if the total power level of the multi-channel signal output from the VGA becomes above the high power threshold for the ADC, to apply a second nominal analog gain to the multi-channel signal to ensure the total power level of the multi-channel signal output from the VGA is at the desired acquisition threshold for the ADC. 17. The multi-channel receiver according to claim 16, wherein the AGC is further operable to subsequently apply the second nominal analog gain as a second fixed nominal analog gain to all incoming multi-channel signals unless the total power level of the multi-channel signal output from the VGA is above the high power threshold for the ADC or below the low power threshold for the ADC. 18. The multi-channel receiver according to claim 15, wherein the AGC is further operable, if the total power level of the multi-channel signal output from the VGA is below the low power threshold for the ADC, to: determine if a packet is being processed on any of the individual channels, and apply the first nominal analog gain to the multi-channel signal until no packets are being processed on any of the individual channels. 19. The multi-channel receiver according to claim 18, wherein the AGC is further operable, if the total power level of the multi-channel signal output from the VGA is below the low power threshold for the ADC and no packet is being processed on any of the individual channels, to apply a third nominal analog gain to the multi-channel signal to ensure the total power level of the multi-channel signal output from the VGA is at the desired acquisition threshold for the ADC. 20. The multi-channel receiver according to claim 15 further comprising a plurality of modems, each of the modems operable to demodulate one of the individual channels; and wherein the AGC is further operable, if the total power level of the multi-channel signal output from the VGA is below the low power threshold for the ADC, to: determine if a packet is being processed by any of the modems, and applying the first nominal analog gain to the multi-channel signal until no packets are being processed by any of the modems. | Automatic Gain Control (AGC) system for multi-channel signals attenuates an incoming multi-channel signal by providing a gain. The system further adjusts each individual channel, of the multi-channel signal, by supplying a second gain if needed. The AGC system is designed to ensure a received signal power is at an optimal level for analog to digital conversion or any other form of signal processing. The system also enables elimination of mid-packet gain adjustments.1. An automatic gain controller (AGC) to control a variable gain amplifier (VGA) implemented within a multi-channel receiver, the multi-channel receiver comprising the VGA operable to adjust gain of a multi-channel signal, an analog to digital converter (ADC) operable to digitize the output of the VGA and a plurality of digital filters operable to filter the output of the ADC into a plurality of individual channels of different frequencies, the AGC operable to:
apply a first nominal analog gain to an incoming multi-channel signal to ensure a total power level of the multi-channel signal output from the VGA is at a desired acquisition threshold for the ADC; and apply the first nominal analog gain as a first fixed nominal analog gain to all incoming multi-channel signals unless the total power level of the multi-channel signal output from the VGA is above a high power threshold for the ADC or below a low power threshold for the ADC. 2. The AGC according to claim 1 further operable, if the total power level of the multi-channel signal output from the VGA becomes above the high power threshold for the ADC, to apply a second nominal analog gain to the multi-channel signal to ensure the total power level of the multi-channel signal output from the VGA is at the desired acquisition threshold for the ADC. 3. The AGC according to claim 2 further operable to subsequently apply the second nominal analog gain as a second fixed nominal analog gain to all incoming multi-channel signals unless the total power level of the multi-channel signal output from the VGA is above the high power threshold for the ADC or below the low power threshold for the ADC. 4. The AGC according to claim 1 further operable, if the total power level of the multi-channel signal output from the VGA is below the low power threshold for the ADC, to:
determine if a packet is being processed on any of the individual channels, and apply the first nominal analog gain to the multi-channel signal until no packets are being processed on any of the individual channels. 5. The AGC according to claim 4 further operable, if the total power level of the multi-channel signal output from the VGA is below the low power threshold for the ADC and no packet is being processed on any of the individual channels, to apply a third nominal analog gain to the multi-channel signal to ensure the total power level of the multi-channel signal output from the VGA is at the desired acquisition threshold for the ADC. 6. A system incorporating the AGC according to claim 1, the system further comprising the VGA controlled by the AGC, the ADC operable to digitize the multi-channel signal output from the VGA, and the plurality of digital filters operable to filter the output of the ADC into the plurality of individual channels of different frequencies. 7. The system according to claim 6 further comprising a plurality of modems, each of the modems operable to demodulate one of the individual channels; wherein the AGC is further operable, if the total power level of the multi-channel signal output from the VGA is below the low power threshold for the ADC, to: determine if a packet is being processed by any of the modems, and apply the first nominal analog gain to the multi-channel signal until no packets are being processed by any of the modems. 8. A method of controlling a gain amplifier for a multi-channel signal prior to digitizing the multi-channel signal and filtering the digitized multi-channel signal into a plurality of individual channels, the method comprising:
applying a first nominal analog gain to an incoming multi-channel signal to ensure a total power level of the multi-channel signal output from the gain amplifier is at a desired acquisition threshold for digitizing; and applying the first nominal analog gain as a first fixed nominal analog gain to all incoming multi-channel signals unless the total power level of the multi-channel signal output from the gain amplifier is above a high power threshold for digitizing or below a low power threshold for digitizing. 9. The method according to claim 8 further comprising: if the total power level of the multi-channel signal output from the gain amplifier becomes above the high power threshold for digitizing, applying a second nominal analog gain to the multi-channel signal to ensure the total power level of the multi-channel signal output from the gain amplifier is at the desired acquisition threshold for digitizing. 10. The method according to claim 9 further comprising: subsequently applying the second nominal analog gain as a second fixed nominal analog gain to all incoming multi-channel signals unless the total power level of the multi-channel signal output from the gain amplifier is above the high power threshold for digitizing or below the low power threshold for digitizing. 11. The method according to claim 8 further comprising: if the total power level of the multi-channel signal output from the gain amplifier is below the low power threshold for digitizing, determining if a packet is being processed on any of the individual channels into which the multi-channel signal is filtered, and applying the first nominal analog gain to the multi-channel signal until no packets are being processed on any of the individual channels. 12. The method according to claim 11 further comprising: if the total power level of the multi-channel signal output from the gain amplifier is below the low power threshold for digitizing and no packet is being processed on any of the individual channels, applying a third nominal analog gain to the multi-channel signal to ensure the total power level of the multi-channel signal output from the gain amplifier is at the desired acquisition threshold for digitizing. 13. The method according to claim 8 further comprising digitizing the multi-channel signal output from the gain amplifier and filtering the digitized multi-channel signal into the plurality of individual channels. 14. The method according to claim 13 further comprising demodulating each of the individual channels with a corresponding modem; wherein the method further comprises: if the total power level of the multi-channel signal output from the gain amplifier is below the low power threshold for the digitizing, determining if a packet is being processed by any of the modems, and applying the first nominal analog gain to the multi-channel signal until no packets are being processed by any of the modems. 15. A multi-channel receiver comprising:
a variable gain amplifier (VGA) operable to adjust gain of a multi-channel signal; an analog to digital converter (ADC) operable to digitize the output of the VGA; a plurality of digital filters operable to filter the output of the ADC into a plurality of individual channels of different frequencies; and an automatic gain controller (AGC) operable to control the VGA to apply a first nominal analog gain to an incoming multi-channel signal to ensure a total power level of the multi-channel signal output from the VGA is at a desired acquisition threshold for the ADC; and apply the first nominal analog gain as a first fixed nominal analog gain to all incoming multi-channel signals unless the total power level of the multi-channel signal output from the VGA is above a high power threshold for the ADC or below a low power threshold for the ADC. 16. The multi-channel receiver according to claim 15, wherein the AGC is further operable, if the total power level of the multi-channel signal output from the VGA becomes above the high power threshold for the ADC, to apply a second nominal analog gain to the multi-channel signal to ensure the total power level of the multi-channel signal output from the VGA is at the desired acquisition threshold for the ADC. 17. The multi-channel receiver according to claim 16, wherein the AGC is further operable to subsequently apply the second nominal analog gain as a second fixed nominal analog gain to all incoming multi-channel signals unless the total power level of the multi-channel signal output from the VGA is above the high power threshold for the ADC or below the low power threshold for the ADC. 18. The multi-channel receiver according to claim 15, wherein the AGC is further operable, if the total power level of the multi-channel signal output from the VGA is below the low power threshold for the ADC, to: determine if a packet is being processed on any of the individual channels, and apply the first nominal analog gain to the multi-channel signal until no packets are being processed on any of the individual channels. 19. The multi-channel receiver according to claim 18, wherein the AGC is further operable, if the total power level of the multi-channel signal output from the VGA is below the low power threshold for the ADC and no packet is being processed on any of the individual channels, to apply a third nominal analog gain to the multi-channel signal to ensure the total power level of the multi-channel signal output from the VGA is at the desired acquisition threshold for the ADC. 20. The multi-channel receiver according to claim 15 further comprising a plurality of modems, each of the modems operable to demodulate one of the individual channels; and wherein the AGC is further operable, if the total power level of the multi-channel signal output from the VGA is below the low power threshold for the ADC, to: determine if a packet is being processed by any of the modems, and applying the first nominal analog gain to the multi-channel signal until no packets are being processed by any of the modems. | 3,700 |
Subsets and Splits