10th week of 2014 patent applcation highlights part 74 |
Patent application number | Title | Published |
20140067042 | EXPANDABLE SLIDE AND LOCK STENT - An expandable slide and lock stent comprises a tubular member that can be expanded from a collapsed state to an expanded state. The tubular member can comprise a reversing helical backbone and at least one rail member extending from the helical backbone in a circumferential direction. The backbone can have at least one engagement element that can be configured to receive a rail member to form the tubular member. In some embodiments, the reversing helical backbone can comprise a plurality of discrete segments having a variable profile and/or wave form. | 2014-03-06 |
20140067043 | IMPLANTABLE EXPANDABLE MEDICAL DEVICES HAVING REGIONS OF DIFFERENTIAL MECHANICAL PROPERTIES AND METHODS OF MAKING SAME - An implantable expandable medical device in which selected regions of the device are in a martensite phase and selected regions are in an austenite phase. The martensitic regions exhibit pseudoplastic behavior in vivo and may be deformed without recovery under in vivo body conditions. In contrast the austenitic regions exhibit superelastic behavior in vivo and will recover their pre-programmed configuration upon deformation or release of an applied strain. | 2014-03-06 |
20140067044 | Crush Recoverable Polymer Scaffolds - A medical device includes a polymer scaffold crimped to a catheter having an expansion balloon. The scaffold, after being deployed by the balloon, provides a crush recovery of about 90% after the diameter of the scaffold has been pinched or crushed by 50%. The scaffold has a pattern including an asymmetric closed cell connecting links connecting the closed cells. | 2014-03-06 |
20140067045 | Bend-Capable Stent Prosthesis - A stent is described, which includes a plurality of stenting rings, each stenting ring including a plurality of struts and points of inflection, each point of inflection connecting adjacent struts, the points of inflection of adjacent stenting rings facing each other along an axis parallel to a longitudinal axis of the stent in a radially expanded stenting disposition while the stent is in an unbent configuration. Adjacent stenting rings are connected by connectors extending from a point of inflection on one stenting ring to a facing point of inflection on another stenting ring, the connectors being linear along an entire length thereof and parallel to the longitudinal axis of the stent, each of the connectors having a length shorter than a length of each of the struts. | 2014-03-06 |
20140067046 | Vascular prosthesis - A vascular prosthesis comprising a tubular shaped expandable ECM member and at least one anchoring mechanism. In one embodiment, the anchoring mechanism comprises proximal and distal single or dual-ring anchors. In one embodiment, the anchoring mechanism comprises a multiple-ring anchor. The anchors preferably comprise a biodegradable metal, such as magnesium. The anchors can also comprise a shape memory alloy, such as nitinol, and a cross-linked ECM material. In some embodiments, the ECM member includes a pharmacological agent. | 2014-03-06 |
20140067047 | ELECTROSPUN PTFE COATED STENT AND METHOD OF USE - A stent or other prosthesis may be formed by coating a single continuous wire scaffold with a polymer coating. The polymer coating may consist of layers of electrospun polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE). Electrospun PTFE of certain porosities may permit endothelial cell growth within the prosthesis. | 2014-03-06 |
20140067048 | Heart Valve Sealing Devices - This disclosure pertains generally to prosthetic devices and related methods for helping to seal native heart valves and prevent or reduce regurgitation therethrough, as well as devices and related methods for implanting such prosthetic devices. In some cases, a spacer having a single anchor can be implanted within a native heart valve. In some cases, a spacer having dual anchors can be implanted within a native heart valve. In some cases, devices can be used to extend the effective length of a native heart valve leaflet. | 2014-03-06 |
20140067049 | Integrated Dilation Balloon and Valve Prosthesis Delivery System - An integrated balloon dilation and valve prosthesis delivery device is provided having a capsule that is configured to surround a collapsed valve prosthesis and that contains a balloon on an exterior surface. | 2014-03-06 |
20140067050 | Trans-Aortic Delivery System With Containment Capsule Centering Device - Heart valve delivery systems and methods of delivering and implanting heart valves using delivery catheters are disclosed. The delivery systems can include a handle assembly which can include a first control mechanism, a second control mechanism, and a decoupling mechanism. The delivery systems can also include a delivery catheter extending from the handle assembly. The delivery catheter can include an outer shaft, which can be controlled by the first control mechanism; a prosthesis containing capsule comprising a proximal capsule portion connected to the outer shaft, and a distal capsule portion releasably coupled to the proximal capsule portion. After deploying a valve prosthesis, the capsule can be closed by activating the decoupling mechanism in the handle to rapidly close the distal and proximal capsule portions together. The delivery system can also include a centering element to guide the distal and proximal capsule portions together. | 2014-03-06 |
20140067051 | SHEATH AND CERCLAGE THREAD FOR MITRAL CERCLAGE ANNULOPLASTY - A sheath and cerclage thread for mitral cerclage annuloplasty, where the cerclage thread is inserted into a lumen created independently from the lumen through which the guide wire is passed. | 2014-03-06 |
20140067052 | Heart Valve Sealing Devices - This disclosure pertains generally to prosthetic devices and related methods for helping to seal native heart valves and prevent or reduce regurgitation therethrough, as well as devices and related methods for implanting such prosthetic devices. In some cases, a spacer having a single anchor can be implanted within a native heart valve. In some cases, a spacer having dual anchors can be implanted within a native heart valve. In some cases, devices can be used to extend the effective length of a native heart valve leaflet. | 2014-03-06 |
20140067053 | Devices and Methods for Loading a Prosthesis Onto a Delivery System - A method for loading a prosthesis onto a delivery system includes passing a distal end of a delivery system through a first open end and a second open end of a reducing member. The method includes seating the prosthesis in a piston member of a cap by contacting a first end of the prosthesis with a first surface of the piston member and by contacting a portion of a side of the prosthesis with at least one side wall extending from the periphery of the first surface. Additionally, the method includes inserting the distal end of the delivery system into a center of the prosthesis and an opening defined by the piston member. And the method includes advancing the cap towards a reducing member such that a portion of the prosthesis seated in the piston member advances along an inner surface of the conical wall of the reducing member. | 2014-03-06 |
20140067054 | Heart Valve Sealing Devices - This disclosure pertains generally to prosthetic devices and related methods for helping to seal native heart valves and prevent or reduce regurgitation therethrough, as well as devices and related methods for implanting such prosthetic devices. In some cases, a spacer having a single anchor can be implanted within a native heart valve. In some cases, a spacer having dual anchors can be implanted within a native heart valve. In some cases, devices can be used to extend the effective length of a native heart valve leaflet. | 2014-03-06 |
20140067055 | ADJUSTMENT ASSEMBLY FOR AN ADJUSTABLE PROSTHETIC VALVE DEVICE - An adjustment assembly for an adjustable prosthetic valve device includes a gearbox housing formed from two gearbox shells coupled to one another and held together by two gearbox sleeves each having an internal cavity adapted to accommodate respective lateral portions of the gearbox shells when the gearbox shells are coupled to one another. A gear assembly, including a center gear and two driven gears, is supported within the gearbox housing. Gear teeth of each of the driven gears engage gear teeth of the center gear such that rotation of the center gear causes rotation of the driven gears. At least one of the driven gears is adapted to engage a transmission mechanism that transmits the rotation thereof to another part of the adjustable prosthetic valve device to accomplish an adjustment to the size and/or shape of the adjustable prosthetic valve device. | 2014-03-06 |
20140067056 | Hall Sensor Mounting in an Implantable Blood Pump - A molded interconnect device can carry a Hall sensor for transducing a position of a rotor of the implantable blood pump. The molded interconnect device includes one or more integrated electronic circuit traces configured to electrically connect the hall sensor with a printed circuit board of the implantable blood pump, and the molded interconnect device is configured to be mounted to the printed circuit board. | 2014-03-06 |
20140067057 | VENTRICULAR CUFF - In one general aspect, a cuff for attachment to a heart includes an attachment component configured to engage a blood pump to attach the cuff to the blood pump and a sewing ring for attachment to the heart. The sewing ring is coupled to the attachment component, and the attachment component and the sewing ring each define a central opening configured to admit an inflow cannula of a blood pump. The sewing ring comprises a member that provides rigidity to flatten a portion of a myocardium of the heart when the cuff is attached to the heart. | 2014-03-06 |
20140067058 | REINFORCED PLACENTAL TISSUE GRAFTS AND METHODS OF MAKING AND USING THE SAME - Described herein are tissue grafts derived from the placental tissue that are reinforced with at least one biocompatible mesh. The tissue grafts possess good adhesion to biological tissues and are useful in wound healing applications. Also described herein are methods for making and using the tissue grafts. | 2014-03-06 |
20140067059 | INFLATABLE INTRA OCULAR LENS/LENS RETAINER - The invention provides for an inflatable intra ocular lens/lens retainer or a system of inflatable intra ocular lens/lens retainers, which are fitted into an aphakic eye, to substantially occupy the space previously held by the crystalline lens to retain and secure the position of delicate intra ocular structures of the eye. The inflatable lens/lens retainer may also be used suspend optical interfaces along the visual axis of the eye. The inflatable intra ocular lens/lens retainer may be pressed against residual elements of the lens capsule to re-establish accommodation. In the absence of a lens capsule, the inflatable intra ocular lens/lens retainer may be compressed directly by the ciliary muscle to alter the refractive state of the eye. | 2014-03-06 |
20140067060 | OPHTHALMIC LENS HAVING ENHANCED OPTICAL BLENDING ZONE - An intraocular lens with a lens comprises a main lens part having a main lens surface and a main optical axis defining radial, tangential and axial directions; and a recessed part having a recess surface and extending between said main optical axis and a circumference of said lens, the recessed part comprising a secondary lens part with a secondary lens surface having a positive relative optical power with respect to an optical power of said main lens surface. The main lens surface extends in an outward radial direction towards a main lens outer circumference section remote from said the optical axis. The main lens outer circumference section and the main lens surface define an imaginary main lens outer circumference section that would have at least partially provided a main lens outer circumference together with the main lens outer circumference section in case the recessed part would have been absent; and an imaginary main lens surface section that would have been part of the main lens surface in case said recessed part would have been absent, the recess surface being recessed with respect to the imaginary main lens surface section. The recessed part extends in an outward radial direction to an outer recess boundary remote from said main optical axis, the outer recess boundary extending along or beyond said imaginary main lens outer circumference section as seen in an outward radial direction. | 2014-03-06 |
20140067061 | SOFT TISSUE REPAIR DEVICES, SYSTEMS, AND METHODS - Devices, systems and/or methods for repairing soft tissue, such as, a lacerated tendon. A repair device includes a frame having a tubular structure with a longitudinal length and struts at least partially defining the tubular structure. The frame includes a first portion and a second portion with an intermediate portion therebetween, each extending along the longitudinal length. The intermediate portion is configured to substantially maintain a fixed position and is configured to be positioned over first and second ends of the lacerated tendon to substantially maintain the first end abutted against the second end. The first portion and the second portion of the frame are configured to be positioned over separate portions of the tendon and configured to move and elongate along a length of the respective first portion and second portion of the frame as the portions of the tendon elongate. | 2014-03-06 |
20140067062 | SOFT TISSUE GRAFT AND METHOD - Soft tissue grafts and methods for making and using them are presented. The graft includes an intermediate portion and a reduced area end portion. | 2014-03-06 |
20140067063 | DEVICES AND METHODS FOR STABILIZING TISSUE AND IMPLANTS - An implant for repairing a joint between a first bone and a second bone includes a first section constructed of a substantially rigid material and a graft constructed of soft tissue having a first end and a second end. The first section has a first end surface configured for positioning against the first bone. The graft is configured for stabilizing the first section relative to the first bone. A first fastener is configured for mounting to the graft and the first section to anchor the graft to the first section. A second fastener is configured for mounting to the graft and the first bone to anchor the graft to the first bone. | 2014-03-06 |
20140067064 | DRIED AND IRRADIATED SKIN EQUIVALENTS FOR READY USE - The present invention relates generally to systems and methods for preparing, storing, shipping and using skin equivalents made by organotypic culture. In particular, the present invention relates to systems and methods for producing, transporting, storing and using skin equivalents produced by organotypic culture at reduced temperatures, preferably from 2-8 degrees Celsius to ambient temperature. The methods include sterile packaging of the grafts so that the sterility and integrity of the package is maintained until the time of use for grafting purposes. | 2014-03-06 |
20140067065 | LAMINOPLASTY IMPLANT, METHOD AND INSTRUMENTATION - In one embodiment, the present invention is a laminal implant including: a first body including a first flange adapted to engage a first lamina end, a tab and a receiving channel; and a second body including a second flange adapted to engage a second lamina end, and a plurality of teeth adapted to engage the tab, at least a portion of the second body adapted to be positioned within the receiving channel, the first and second bodies adapted to slideably engage one another. | 2014-03-06 |
20140067066 | EXPANDABLE POROUS MESH BAG DEVICE AND METHODS OF USE FOR REDUCTION, FILLING, FIXATION AND SUPPORTING OF BONE - The invention provides a method of correcting numerous bone abnormalities including bone tumors and cysts, avascular necrosis of the femoral head, tibial plateau fractures and compression fractures of the spine. The abnormality may be corrected by first accessing and boring into the damaged tissue or bone and reaming out the damaged and/or diseased area using any of the presently accepted procedures or the damaged area may be prepared by expanding a bag within the damaged bone to compact cancellous bone. After removal and/or compaction of the damaged tissue the bone is stabilized. | 2014-03-06 |
20140067067 | ARTIFICIAL CERVICAL AND LUMBAR DISCS, DISC PLATE INSERTION GUN FOR PERFORMING SEQUENTIAL SINGLE PLATE INTERVERTEBRAL IMPLANTATION ENABLING SYMMETRIC BI-DISC PLATE ALIGNMENT FOR INTERPLATE MOBILE CORE PLACEMENT - An artificial replacement disc includes a pair of substantially parallel plates formed to occupy a space defined by vertebral endplates, each of the plates including a plurality of spikes on a first surface and a concave trough formed on a second surface opposite of the first surface. A mobile core includes a core rim with opposing convex surfaces extending from opposite sides of the core rim, the mobile core being capable of being disposed between the pair of plates to permit the vertebral endplates to move relative to one another. The spikes on each of the plates extend substantially away from the mobile core and the convex surfaces are formed to integrally fit within the concave trough of at least one of the plates. The core rim limits lateral movement of the mobile core relative to the parallel plates. One or more insertion tools for inserting and implanting the replacement disc are also described. | 2014-03-06 |
20140067068 | METHOD OF TREATING SPINAL INTERNAL DISK DERANGEMENT - A method of treating a spinal disk according to the present invention can include inserting an alloplastic bulking agent into the spinal disk to treat the defect. The alloplastic bulking agent has a plurality of microparticles. The bulking agent results in at least one of sealing the defect, increasing a pressure of the disk, increasing a height of the disk, improving stability of the disk and improving structural integrity of the disk. | 2014-03-06 |
20140067069 | ARTIFICIAL DISC - Intervertebral implants and methods of delivering the intervertebral implants include delivering an implant through the Kambin's triangle from a posterolateral approach. The intervertebral implants can include a first body portion having an open configuration and a closed configuration. The intervertebral implants can also include a second body portion having an open configuration and a closed configuration. The first body portion removably connects to the second body portion. | 2014-03-06 |
20140067070 | DEVICES AND METHODS FOR INTER-VERTEBRAL ORTHOPEDIC DEVICE PLACEMENT - A bone prosthesis device is comprised of an upper and lower abutment surfaces and an intervening malleable member. The device is sufficiently small so that implantation into an inter-vertebral disc space can be performed from a substantially posterior approach without significant impingement upon the neural elements. | 2014-03-06 |
20140067071 | Expandable Fusion Device and Method of Installation Thereof - The present invention provides an expandable fusion device capable of being installed inside an intervertebral disc space to maintain normal disc spacing and restore spinal stability, thereby facilitating an intervertebral fusion. In one embodiment, the fusion device includes a central ramp, a first endplate, and a second endplate, the central ramp capable of being moved in a first direction to move the first and second endplates outwardly and into an expanded configuration. The fusion device is capable of being deployed down an endoscopic tube. | 2014-03-06 |
20140067072 | ADJUSTABLE INTERVERTEBRAL IMPLANT - An adjustable intervertebral implant for implantation into a patient's spine in-between first and second adjacent or neighboring vertebrae. The implant may include one or more of the following features: (i) inner and outer members coupled by a radiographically imageable expansion ring, (ii) detachable endplates coupled to the implant via a polygonal press-fit coupling interface that accommodate a range of lordotic endplates to be applied to the implant using any surgical approach, (iii) an interference pre-loaded set screw for selectively locking the height of the construct, (iv) a radiographically imageable marker for determining the expansion of the implant, and (v) an asymmetric thread coupling between the expansion ring and the inner member. | 2014-03-06 |
20140067073 | MEMORY MATERIAL IMPLANT SYSTEM AND METHODS OF USE - Apparatus and method used to reduce the movement between vertebrae or fractured bones. The implantable device can be deformed from its shape-set configuration for ease of deployment and return to a pre-set shape upon completion of deployment. The apparatus can serve to stabilize fractured bones or as a distraction device and support structure between vertebrae. Device may be made of a material with shape memory and superelastic properties which facilitate the method of implantation. The pre-set shape of the device may include dimensions/geometries which are similar to the natural curvature of the human spine or bone without the use of hinging or connection between multiple pieces. Once deployed, the device can serve to constrain the flow of bone growth material between the inside and outside of the device. | 2014-03-06 |
20140067074 | SPINAL IMPLANT HAVING DEPLOYABLE BONE ENGAGING PROJECTIONS - Instrumentation is disclosed for inserting an interbody spinal fusion implant for implantation at least in part within and across the generally restored height of a disc space between two adjacent vertebral bodies of a human spine. The implant has an external housing and a substantially hollow internal rotatable member having bone engaging projections that are deployable through the housing to penetrably engage the adjacent vertebral bodies. | 2014-03-06 |
20140067075 | Extra-Articular Implantable Mechanical Energy Absorbing Systems - A system and method for sharing and absorbing energy between body parts. In one particular aspect, the system facilitates absorbing energy between members forming a joint such as between articulating bones. | 2014-03-06 |
20140067076 | TIBIAL INSERT LOCKING MECHANISM - A tibial implant includes a baseplate having a proximally facing surface surrounded at least in part by a proximally extending wall. The wall has a ramp surface extending from the wall towards the baseplate proximally facing baseplate surface and a bore located distally of the ramp. A polyethylene bearing insert is mounted on the baseplate and has a distally facing surface engaging the proximally facing surface of the baseplate. The distally facing bearing insert surface has a recess and the insert has a side surface with a passageway extending from the recess through the insert side surface. A spring detent is mounted in the bearing insert recess and has a moveable pin biased outwardly of the bearing insert side surface and into the bore of the baseplate. | 2014-03-06 |
20140067077 | KNEE COMPONENT HAVING ORBITAL INTERFACE BOSS - A knee prosthesis constructed in accordance to the present disclosure includes a femoral component and a boss. The femoral component can have a first condylar portion and a second condylar portion connected by an inner condylar portion that defines an intercondylar recess, the inner condylar portion having a first engagement portion comprising a first plurality of engaging members extending therefrom. The boss can have a longitudinal body extending along a boss axis between first and second ends. The first end can be configured to selectively mate with a stem. The second end can include a second engagement portion comprising a second plurality of engaging members extending therefrom. The second engagement portion of the boss can be selectively coupled to the first engagement portion of the femoral component in a plurality of discrete positions to attain a corresponding plurality of angles of the boss axis relative to the femoral component. | 2014-03-06 |
20140067078 | METHOD FOR BONE REPAIR - A bone repairing kit including a drilling device, a pushing device, a clamping member and a hole saw. An end of a tube body of the drilling device is a knife portion. When the tube body rotates with respect to a femur, a bone column is cut by the knife portion and located in the tube body. The pushing device includes a hollow tube and a push bar. The hollow tube is for receiving the tube body. The push bar is for touching and pushing the bone column in the tube body. The clamping member is for clamping the bone column. The hole saw includes a receiving body and cutting knives. The receiving body has a recess for receiving an end of the bone column. The cutting knives surrounding on an inner wall of the recess are for cutting an edge of the end of the bone column. | 2014-03-06 |
20140067079 | IMPLANTS FOR THE TREATMENT OF OSTEOARTHRITIS OF THE KNEE - A replacement knee implant has a femoral implant and a tibial implant, each of which are inset in a bone surface. The tibial implant is generally elongated with one end rounded and an opposite end conforming to the shape of the tibia, and is made of a metal alloy or a ceramic. The upper surface is dished while the lower surface is planar and can be parallel or sloped relative to the upper surface. The femoral implant for implementation in a femoral condyle is rounded such that, when implemented, the femoral implant is flush at the anterior and posterior sides and protruding away from the femur between the anterior and posterior ends. The femoral implant can have an elongated keel for extending into the femur, and can be made from a highly cross-linked polyethylene. | 2014-03-06 |
20140067080 | HIP STEM PROSTHESIS WITH A POROUS COLLAR TO ALLOW FOR BONE INGROWTH - A femoral hip implant includes a first end, a second end, and a collar with a porous surface, all fabricated from a single piece of material. The entire area of the collar is porous, and the collar elastically deflects under load to promote bone ingrowth. | 2014-03-06 |
20140067081 | Method for Bone Reattachment - A method for trochanteric reattachment can include positioning a femoral prosthesis relative to a proximal portion of a femur. A first portion of a self-locking adjustable flexible member construct can be coupled to a first attachment region of the prosthesis, and a second portion of the self-locking adjustable flexible member construct can be coupled to a second attachment region of the femoral prosthesis, where the second portion can be opposite the first portion. A trochanter can be positioned relative to the femur and a trochanteric engaging region of the prosthesis, and the self-locking adjustable flexible member construct can be positioned around an outer surface of the trochanter. Free ends of the self-locking adjustable flexible member construct can be tensioned to draw the trochanter into secure engagement with the prosthesis and the femur via the self-locking adjustable flexible member construct in an absence of a knot. | 2014-03-06 |
20140067082 | BIORESORBABLE CERAMIC COMPOSITION FOR FORMING A THREE DIMENSIONAL SCAFFOLD - The present disclosure is directed to a bioresorbable ceramic composition having a plurality of biocompatible ceramic granules, each of the granules having a coating of a plurality of calcium containing particles, where at least a portion of the particles are bound to at least a portion of an outer surface of each of the granules, and further where the composition is flowable in a dry state. The present disclosure is also directed to a three dimensional scaffold for bone repair that includes the bioresorbable composition, which upon implantation to a locus of repair defines an interconnected pore network between outer walls of the coated granules of the composition. Finally, the present disclosure is directed to methods of forming both the bioresorbable ceramic composition and the three-dimensional ceramic scaffold. | 2014-03-06 |
20140067083 | Control System for Prosthetic Limb - A controller for a prosthetic device includes a processing section, an interface section connected to the processing section, and a power supply connected to both the processing section and the interface section. A dorsal indicator and a dorsal switch are disposed in a hand portion of the prosthetic device, and are both connected to the interface section. | 2014-03-06 |
20140067084 | VALVE FOR PROSTHESIS ATTACHMENT - Devices, systems, and methods relating to a valve that may be used with a prosthesis attachment include a valve assembly that includes a spring loaded insert portion and a base portion that interfaces to lock and unlock by depressing the spring loaded insert portion. | 2014-03-06 |
20140067085 | PROSTHETIC SLEEVE AND CUFF ASSEMBLIES - Prosthetic cuffs and prosthetic sleeve and cuff assemblies are provided. | 2014-03-06 |
20140067086 | Prosthetic Ankle Joint Mechanism - A prosthetic foot and ankle assembly includes a foot component and an ankle joint mounted thereto and having a fixed range of dorsi-plantar flexion. The ankle joint includes a joint mechanism in the form of a hydraulic linear piston and cylinder assembly having a pair of chambers on opposite sides of the piston to provide hydraulic damping continuously over the range of dorsi-plantar flexion. The joint mechanism further includes a valve arrangement controlling the flow of hydraulic fluid between the chambers. The valve arrangement includes first and second adjustable valves for independently controlling dorsi-flexion damping resistance and plantar-flexion damping resistance respectively. The joint mechanism includes a first flexion limiter that limits dorsi-flexion of the joint mechanism to a dorsi-flexion limit and a second flexion limiter that limits plantar-flexion of the joint mechanism to a plantar-flexion limit, thereby defining the fixed range of dorsi-plantar flexion. | 2014-03-06 |
20140067087 | Energy-Saving Control Method Involving an Energy-Saving Mode - An electronic apparatus includes: a plurality of operation input units configured to receive an operation input and enable operations by processing based on different functions; an operating unit group configured to perform the processing based on the different functions by at least one of operating units operating after the operation input; and an energy-saving control unit configured to perform energy-saving control for shifting one or more of the operating units to an energy-saving mode and reactivating one or more of the operating units from the energy-saving mode, and reactivate one or more of the operating units necessary for the operation after the operation input when the operation input during the energy-saving mode is common to a plurality of functions. | 2014-03-06 |
20140067088 | TUNING MODEL STRUCTURES OF DYNAMIC SYSTEMS - Tuning model structures of dynamic systems are described herein. One method for tuning model structures of a dynamic system includes predicting a variable for each of a number of models associated with a number of model structures of a dynamic system, calculating a rate of error of the predicted variable for each of the number of models compared to an observed variable, determining a best model structure among the number of model structures based on the calculated rate of error, and creating a revised model structure using the best model structure to tune the number of model structures of the dynamic system. | 2014-03-06 |
20140067089 | MAINTENANCE SUPPORT SYSTEM, MAINTENANCE SUPPORT APPARATUS AND MAINTENANCE SUPPORT METHOD - A maintenance support system include includes: a first storage unit which stores first specification information indicating a specification of a process control system which performs control of an industrial process implemented in a plant; an actual condition information extraction unit configured to extract actual condition information indicating an actual condition for the process control system; and a first comparison unit configured to output first information indicating a result of comparing the first specification information stored in the first storage unit with the actual condition information extracted by the extraction unit. | 2014-03-06 |
20140067090 | MOVABLE DEVICE ALLOWING INSTANTANEOUS CORRECTION OF ERROR IN MOVING STATE AND ERROR CORRECTION METHOD THEREOF - Disclosed are a movable device allowing instantaneous correction of error in a moving state and an error correction method thereof. The movable device includes a drive unit that is previously set up with an allowable error and has a moving path along which detection units are installed in a line. Precise measurements are taken in advance to obtain position data of each of the detection units. Comparison is then made by the controller between instantaneous data and corresponding comparison data. When the controller determines the instantaneous data exceed the comparison data, an instantaneous correction operation is made to make the instantaneous data not exceeding the comparison data. Acceleration or deceleration may be made by the drive unit to effect such a control that when the movable piece reaches the next detection unit, the instantaneous data do not exceed the comparison data. | 2014-03-06 |
20140067091 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR IMPROVED DEVICE COMMISSIONING AND DECOMMISSIONING - The embodiments described herein include a system and a method. In one embodiment, a system includes a commissioning system configured to operatively couple a field device to a control system. The system further includes a decommissioning system configured to operatively uncouple the field device from the control system. The system additionally includes a graphical user interface (GUI) configured to use the commissioning system, the decommissioning system, or a combination thereof, to operatively couple the field device to the control system, operatively uncouple the field device to the control system, or a combination thereof, by using a plurality of field device states comprising a mismatched state and a commissioned state, wherein the commissioning system is configured to transition the field device from the mismatched state into the commissioned state if the field device is determined to be in the mismatched state. | 2014-03-06 |
20140067092 | ADAPTIVE WORK CYCLE CONTROL SYSTEM - A control system is disclosed for use with an excavation machine. The control system may have a work tool, an operator input device to receive input indicative of a desired movement of the work tool, at least one actuator, and at least one sensor associated with at least one of the work tool and the at least one actuator. The control system may also have a controller in communication with the operator input, the at least one actuator, and the at least one sensor. The controller may be configured to make a classification of a current operation of the machine as one of a plurality of known operations based on a signal from at least one of the operator input device and the at least one sensor. The controller may be further configured to adjust an operational parameter of the at least one actuator based on the classification. | 2014-03-06 |
20140067093 | MANAGEMENT APPARATUS AND METHOD - A management apparatus according to embodiments is configured to manage a processing apparatus having an operation display. The management apparatus includes a request acquisition unit configured to receive a request for screen information used to generate an operation display, from the processing apparatus, a function acquisition unit configured to acquire from the processing apparatus function information indicating one or more functions supported by the processing apparatus, a generating unit configured to generate, based on the function information, the screen information such that a function not supported by the processing apparatus cannot be selected on the operation display, and a provision unit configured to provide the screen information generated by the generating unit to the processing apparatus. | 2014-03-06 |
20140067094 | HOME APPLIANCE AND ONLINE SYSTEM INCLUDING THE SAME - A method of using an online system includes transmitting user information to a server through an external terminal to log in to the server. The server specifies a home appliance for a remote service based on the user information received from the external terminal and determines whether remote service activation of the specified home appliance is set, upon determining that the remote service activation of the home appliance is set. The server transmits operation information of the home appliance to the external terminal. The external terminal transmits a command signal to the server such that the home appliance is operated based on the received operation information. The server receives the command signal, and the server transmits the command signal to the home appliance such that the home appliance is operated. | 2014-03-06 |
20140067095 | COOKING APPLIANCE - A cooking appliance apparatus includes a power unit, and a communication unit which is configured to receive at least one information item from a data network. A control unit is operably connected to the communication unit and configured to change at least one operating parameter of the power unit at least as a function of the at least one information item. | 2014-03-06 |
20140067096 | EXERCISE SUPPORTING DEVICE, EXERCISE SUPPORTING METHOD AND EXERCISE SUPPORTING PROGRAM - An exercise supporting device including a detecting section which repeatedly detects motion data relative to the exercise motion status of a user during the exercise motion; an analyzing and judging section which obtains, based on the motion data, a first motion information value corresponding to the user's moving speed and a second motion information value corresponding to the user's footstep count per unit time or footstep width at each time the detecting section detects the motion data, and judges whether the first motion information value is out of a first numerical value range and whether the second motion information value is out of a second numerical value range; and an output section which, when at least one of the motion information values is judged as being out of the relevant numerical value range, performs an informing operation regarding this motion information value. | 2014-03-06 |
20140067097 | EXERCISE FACILITY AND RELATED COMPUTER-GENERATED PERSONAL TRAINING SYSTEM AND METHOD - A gym is provided having multiple, private booths for members to perform exercises. The member typically moves from booth to booth to perform different exercises. Preferably, an automatically generated workout program, based upon member input and fitness and test results, guides the member from booth to booth and provides a workout regimen that can be automatically changed from day to day, based on feedback, to accommodate the member's changing abilities. | 2014-03-06 |
20140067098 | SPORTS DATA COLLECTION AND PRESENTATION - A system of collecting and displaying statistical performance data of American football or rugby football tactical plays includes
| 2014-03-06 |
20140067099 | RECORDING SYSTEM AND METHOD - An electronic device such as a smart phone, in combination with an application program residing at least partially therein and run at least partially thereby effectively enables selective retroactive recording to capture already-passed audible events when an audible trigger is recognized. When used in conjunction with an internet-based social media network or an interested contact list, audible events that meet certain pre-determined criteria may be automatically shared. | 2014-03-06 |
20140067100 | PARALLEL DIGITAL FILTERING OF AN AUDIO CHANNEL - An electronic audio apparatus is described that uses a digital audio filter in which a splitter separates an input frame of discrete time audio into different time interval portions. Separate digital filter blocks then operate in parallel upon those time interval portions, respectively. A combiner merges the filtered portions into a single audio channel signal. Other embodiments are also described and claimed. | 2014-03-06 |
20140067101 | FACILITATING COMPREHENSION IN COMMUNICATION SYSTEMS - A method, computer program product, and computer system for receiving information from a first computing device, the information including digital audio data, the information sent to a second computing device by the first computing device. The information is received from the second computing device. A discrepancy between at least a portion of the information received from the first computing device and at least a portion of the information received from the second computing device is identified in real-time. At least a portion of the discrepancy is corrected in real-time for replaying at least the portion of the discrepancy at the second computing device. | 2014-03-06 |
20140067102 | VIRTUAL WIRELESS MULTITRACK RECORDING SYSTEM - Disclosed are systems and methods for wirelessly recording multi-track audio files without the data corruption or loss of data that typically occurs with wireless data transmission. In some aspects of the present invention, each performer is equipped with a local audio device capable of locally recording the respective performer's audio while also transmitting it to a master recorder. The locally recorded audio may then be used to repair or replace any audio lost or corrupted during transmission to the master recorder. Such repair or replacement may be performed electronically or via playback of the locally recorded audio. In other aspects of the present invention, a master recorder is not required since all locally recorded audio may be combined or otherwise processed post-recording. Locally recorded audio may include identifiers to aid in post-recording identification of such audio. A multi-memory unit is also provided to facilitate manipulation and processing of audio files. | 2014-03-06 |
20140067103 | REMOTE NODE FOR BI-DIRECTIONAL DIGITAL AUDIO DATA AND CONTROL COMMUNICATIONS - A remote node for bi-directional digital audio data and control communications includes remote components including: a remote transceiver; a remote low-voltage power supply that provides power to the other remote node components; and a sub-system that derives a master clock signal from received digital audio data. The sub-system includes a phase-locked loop (PLL) that is locked to a PLL input signal and outputs a remote node clock signal, and a switch that selects the PLL input signal from the derived clock signal and the remote node clock signal. The remote node is enabled to receive over a two-wire communication network digital audio data and digital control signals, and to transmit over the network digital control signals. The remote power supply has an input that is configured to be coupled to the network to derive the power for the remote node from power coupled to the network by a host end. | 2014-03-06 |
20140067104 | CREATING ON-DEMAND PACKAGING BASED ON STORED ATTRIBUTE DATA - Methods, computer-readable media, and systems described herein relate to producing on-demand packaging. For example, packaging can be automatically produced on-demand and be sized and configured for use with a customized set of items. In one aspect, a request for multiple items is received and a packaging customization engine accesses an information store that includes information about each of the requested items. The information may include dimensional information about the three-dimensional size of the items. The packaging customization engine may use the dimensional information to simulate a model arrangement of all of the requested items, and then calculate the dimensions of a box or other package that can provide a precise fit for the items when physically arranged consistent with the model arrangement. | 2014-03-06 |
20140067105 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR HANDLING BATCH PRODUCTION WITHIN ANSI/ISA/95 PRODUCTION SCHEDULING EXTENDED WITH BATCH PRODUCTION PARAMETER HISTORIAN - We add a new entity Production Parameter History to the ISA-95 Production Schedule Model, thereby extending the model. The new entity stores the recent history of the values assumed by a subset of batch parameters most relevant for production control and resource planning, thus without the ERP system being charged with retrieving the historian from a log or from a warehouse in order to schedule the plant production. Putting together the batch information present in the ISA-95 Segment Requirement and the new Production Parameter History, the MES creates and stores a fully Electronic Batch Record close to a real situation found during product manufacturing. The MES system can provide the Electronic Batch Record to the ERP system through the ISA-95 Production Performance model extended thereof, since a production performance report is made up of a set of one or more Production Responses associated with Production Requests. | 2014-03-06 |
20140067106 | Computer-Implemented Methods for Generating 3D Models Suitable for 3D Printing - Computer-implemented processes for allowing a user with limited technical knowledge to easily design 3D models. The 3D models generated by such processes may be 3D printed, as the models are solid, which is necessary for 3D printing. Each of these computer-implemented processes takes a small amount of simplified user input and generates one of a number of different 3D models. More specifically, based on the user input, the computer-implemented processes automatically generate CAD primitives, and automatically perform certain CAD operations on those primitives, such that a 3D model is generated. | 2014-03-06 |
20140067107 | Process and System for Generating a Specification for a Customized Device, and Device Made Thereby - A process and system for generating a specification for customized devices, such as rehabilitation or assistive devices, including prostheses and orthoses, or sports padding or equipment. A digital model, which is fully parameterized at least for characterizing clinical shape characteristics and functional characteristics of the device, is populated with a plurality of design parameter values and 3-dimensional coordinates of captured and calculated virtual landmarks to construct a customized model corresponding to the specification. The customized device may be manufactured based upon the specification. A system connected to a computer aided manufacturing system may generate instructions for automatically fabricating the device. In embodiments with standardized design parameter values, the customized model may be constructed without involving a human operator. | 2014-03-06 |
20140067108 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR DYNAMIC CONTROL OF TASK ASSIGNMENTS IN A FABRICATION PROCESS - Systems and methods for the dynamic control of task assignments in a fabrication process that employs a plurality of machines to fabricate a manufactured component. These systems and methods may include executing a plurality of task assignments with an available portion of the plurality of machines, monitoring a process variable that defines the available portion of the plurality of machines, and adjusting the plurality of task assignments to create a plurality of adjusted task assignments based upon the monitoring. The plurality of task assignments may include a plurality of tasks that are to be completed during fabrication of the manufactured component, and the executing may include initiating a respective task assignment of the plurality of task assignments with each machine in the available portion of the plurality of machines, thereby fabricating at least a portion of the manufactured component. | 2014-03-06 |
20140067109 | WORKPIECE-PROCESSING SYSTEM - A workpiece processing system may be provided which includes an installation having a plurality of process units integrated such that the units are reconfigurable on unit-by-unit basis, and also includes a loader that transfers a workpiece. Each of the units has one or more positioning point for the loader, at which the loader may be positioned by a controller. Each one of the units includes a marker indicating a reference point in the each one of the units. A reader in the loader reads the marker to determine a location of the reference point. The controller includes memories which store a relative location of the positioning point(s) and the location of the reference point determined by the reader in the each one of the units. | 2014-03-06 |
20140067110 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR DYNAMIC SEMICONDUCTOR PROCESS SCHEDULING - Embodiments of the present disclosure can help increase throughput and reduce resource conflicts and delays in semiconductor processing tools. An exemplary method according to various aspects of the present disclosure includes analyzing, by a computer program operating on a computer system, a plurality of expected times to complete each of a respective plurality of actions to be performed by a semiconductor processing tool, the semiconductor processing tool including a first process module and a second process module. | 2014-03-06 |
20140067111 | METHOD AND CONTROL DEVICE FOR THE LOW-VIBRATIONAL MOVEMENT OF A MOVEABLE CRANE ELEMENT IN A CRANE SYSTEM - The invention relates to a method and a control device for the low-vibrational control of the movement, by means of a motor ( | 2014-03-06 |
20140067112 | Coded bottle/container sealing device - A coded sealing device for a medicine bottle includes a substantially solid structure comprising a first sidewall, a first top surface, and a first concavity. A label is located on at least one of the first sidewall and first top surface, and the first concavity is for receiving a medicine bottle. In at least one embodiment, at least one of the first sidewall, first top surface, and label may include a color coding and/or other indicia. The label containing information relevant to the patient may be located on at least one of the first sidewall and first top surface. The coded sealing device also includes various alternative embodiments. | 2014-03-06 |
20140067113 | PRODUCT DISPENSER, SYSTEM, AND METHOD OF OPERATION - A product dispenser includes a housing configured to receive a supply of product, a dispensing mechanism disposed and configured to dispense the product, and a controller operably coupled to the dispensing mechanism. The controller includes a processer responsive to executable instructions which when executed by the processor facilitates: recording of usage data associated with the product; calculation of a usage rate of the product; and, prediction of at least one of a depletion date of the product, a time to depletion of the product, a time to near-depletion of the product, and a near-depletion date of the product. | 2014-03-06 |
20140067114 | METHOD FOR OPERATING A MEDICATION DISPENSER, AND MEDICATION DISPENSER - The present invention relates to a method for obtaining information from a medication package. In the method, an image of the medication package is provided, the image is analysed to determine positions and formats of patterns in the image, a layout, which has similar pattern formats in the same positions as the image, is selected from a set of layouts stored in the medication dispenser, the selected layout defining the type of information for each pattern in the image, and the information contained in at least one of the patterns of the image is interpreted by linking the content of the pattern to the type of information defined in the selected layout. The invention also relates to a medication dispenser. | 2014-03-06 |
20140067115 | ROBOT AND ROBOT SYSTEM - A robot includes a first arm, a second arm, and a controller. A first hand is mounted to the first arm. The first hand is configured to hold a tool that is configured to perform a predetermined kind of work with respect to a workpiece. A second hand is mounted to the second arm. The second hand is configured to hold the tool. The controller is configured to control the first arm and the second arm to perform a switching operation of switching the tool from one arm among the first arm and the second arm holding the tool to another arm, so as to control the tool to make a circumferential movement around the workpiece. | 2014-03-06 |
20140067116 | SIDE BRUSH ASSEMBLY, ROBOT CLEANER AND CONTROL METHOD OF ROBOT CLEANER - A side brush assembly including a side arm capable of being exposed outside a main body and returning inside the main body and a side brush unit mounted to the side arm, a robot cleaner and a control method of the robot cleaner is provided. The robot cleaner includes a main body and at least one side brush assembly to increase a dust-removing area. The side brush assembly includes a side brush body, a side arm mounted to a bottom surface of the side brush body and configured to be exposed outside the main body, a side brush unit rotatably mounted to the side arm, a lever configured to rotate together with the side arm, a cam configured to rotate by receiving driving force from a driving motor, and an elastic member connecting the lever and the cam to rotate the lever by elastic force thereof. | 2014-03-06 |
20140067117 | ACTUATING APPARATUS - An actuating apparatus includes an actuator including flexible transmitting assemblies disposed between a plurality of joints, and a plurality of motors for actuating the joints. Each of the motors includes a variable rigidity element, the rigidity of which is variable in directions of rotation of the joints, and a controller for controlling the actuator. The controller includes a rigidity threshold value calculator for calculating rigidity threshold values of the joints, based on a required rigidity for a predetermined task position on a link and a coefficient matrix determined based on rotational angles of the motors. | 2014-03-06 |
20140067118 | ROBOT - A robot includes a first arm that rotates around the first axis, a second arm that rotates around a second axis in a direction different from the first axis, a third arm that rotates around a third axis parallel to the second axis, a first inertia sensor that is installed at the first arm, a second (a) inertia sensor that is installed at the third arm, first to third angle sensors, a posture detection unit that detects the posture of the third arm with the second arm as a reference and derives a feedback gain, and a second drive source control unit that feeds back a second correction component, which is obtained by multiplying a value, which is obtained by subtracting the angular velocity ωA2m and the angular velocity ωA3m from the angular velocity ωA3, by the feedback gain, and controls the second drive source. | 2014-03-06 |
20140067119 | ROBOT - A robot includes respective arms, respective drive sources, respective angle sensors, respective inertia sensors, a posture detection unit that detects the posture of a third arm, and a second drive source control unit that selects, on the basis of a detection result of the posture detection unit, any one of a second (A) correction component, which is derived from an angular velocity ωA3 of a second axis of a third arm obtained from a third inertia sensor, an angular velocity ωA2m of a second axis of a second arm obtained from a second angle sensor, and an angular velocity ωA3m obtained from a third angle sensor, and a second (B) correction component, which is derived from an angular velocity ωA2 obtained from a second inertia sensor and the angular velocity ωA2m, and feeds back the selected correction component to control the second drive source. | 2014-03-06 |
20140067120 | ROBOT - A robot includes a base, first and second arms, first and second drive sources, first and second inertia sensors, and first and second angle sensors. A rotation axis of the first arm and a rotation axis of the second arm are orthogonal to each other. The first inertia sensor is installed at the first arm, and the second inertia sensor is installed at the second arm. The first angle sensor is installed at the first drive source, and the second angle sensor is installed at the second drive source. Angular velocities obtained from the first inertia sensor and the first angle sensor are fed back to a first drive source control unit. Angular velocities obtained from the second inertia sensor and the second angle sensor are fed back to a second drive source control unit. | 2014-03-06 |
20140067121 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR SAFE ROBOT OPERATION - In various embodiments, safe collaboration between a robot and humans is achieved by operating the robot continuously at or below a first threshold speed at which any collisions with a person's arms do not cause harm, and, upon detection of the person's torso or head within a danger zone around the robot, reducing the speed to or below a second threshold at which any collisions with the person's torso or head do not cause harm. | 2014-03-06 |
20140067122 | ROBOT SYSTEM AND TEACHING METHOD THEREFOR - A robot system according to an aspect of an embodiment includes a robot and a work bench. The robot has a plurality of joints including a first joint that is provided so as to be rotatable relative to an installation surface. On the work bench, a fixing part, by which a work member used in operations of the robot is fixed, is provided on a plate surface of a top plate with a rotation axis of the first joint serving as a normal line thereof, along a circular arc having a center at an intersection between the plate surface and the rotation axis. | 2014-03-06 |
20140067123 | FORCE SENSING APPARATUS AND OPERATING METHOD OF FORCE SENSING APPARATUS - A force sensing apparatus and an operating method of the force sensing apparatus may obtain and provide information about a force applied to an object, thereby enabling control of a force to be applied to manipulate the object. | 2014-03-06 |
20140067124 | MONITORING ROBOT SENSOR CONSISTENCY - Sensors associated with a robot or sub-system thereof (e.g., a series elastic actuator associated with a robot joint) may be monitored for mutual consistency using one or more constraints that relate physical quantities measured by the sensors to each other. The constraints may be based on a physical model of the robot or sub-system. | 2014-03-06 |
20140067125 | ROBOT, ROBOT CONTROL DEVICE, AND ROBOT SYSTEM - A robot includes: a base; a first arm rotatably coupled to the base about a first axis of rotation; a second arm rotatably coupled to the first arm about a second axis of rotation, the second axis of rotation being an axis perpendicular to the first axis of rotation or being an axis parallel to an axis perpendicular to the first axis of rotation; a third arm rotatably coupled to the second arm about a third axis of rotation, the third axis of rotation being an axis parallel to the second axis of rotation; a first angular velocity sensor installed to the first arm and having an angular velocity detection axis parallel to the first axis of rotation; and a second angular velocity sensor installed to the third arm and having an angular velocity detection axis parallel to the third axis of rotation. | 2014-03-06 |
20140067126 | INFORMATION PROCESSING APPARATUS, INFORMATION PROCESSING METHOD AND STORAGE MEDIUM - There is provided with an information processing apparatus. An image including a target object is acquired. A coarse position and orientation of the target object is acquired. Information of a plurality of models which indicate a shape of the target object with different accuracy is held. A geometrical feature of the target object in the acquired image is associated with a geometrical feature indicated by at least one of the plurality of models placed at the coarse position and orientation. A position and orientation of the target object is estimated based on the result of association. | 2014-03-06 |
20140067127 | APPARATUS AND METHOD OF TAKING OUT BULK STORED ARTICLES BY ROBOT - An article take-out apparatus including: a 3D measuring device measuring surface positions of a plurality of articles stored in bulk in a 3D space so as to acquire position information of a plurality of 3D points; a connected set processing unit determining connected sets made by connecting 3D points which are close to each other, from the plurality of 3D points acquired by the 3D measuring device; an article identifying unit identifying positions and postures of the articles, based on position information of 3D points belonging to the connected sets; a hand position and posture processing unit determining positions and postures of the hand capable of taking out the identified articles; and a robot control unit controlling a robot to move the hand to the positions and postures determined by the hand position and posture processing unit and take out the articles. | 2014-03-06 |
20140067128 | HAPTIC TEACH PENDANT - An apparatus for providing haptic feedback to a teach pendant including a teach pendant having a housing and a processor disposed therein. The processor is in signal communication with a robot controller and is configured to monitor and control a robot. At least one haptic device is disposed on the teach pendant. The haptic device is in signal communication with the processor and configured for providing haptic feedback through the teach pendant to a user upon the occurrence of a haptic event. | 2014-03-06 |
20140067129 | Variable Product Agrochemicals Application Management - Methods and products are provided for facilitating application of variable-product agrochemicals, such as fertilizer, to an application area, such as a field. The fertilizer or agrochemical may include a single fertilizer or agrochemical type or a mixture. In one embodiment, a fertilizer-application area is divided into application cells, and a fertilizer product is determined for each cell, based on zones of the application area with a similar characteristic, such as topographic wetness index levels. Based on a determined product for each cell, instructions for controlling an agrochemical applicator are automatically generated. | 2014-03-06 |
20140067130 | SYSTEMS, METHODS AND ARTICLES FOR ENHANCING WELLNESS ASSOCIATED WITH HABITABLE ENVIRONMENTS - Environmental characteristics of habitable environments (e.g., hotel or motel rooms, spas, resorts, cruise boat cabins, offices, hospitals and/or homes, apartments or residences) are controlled to eliminate, reduce or ameliorate adverse or harmful aspects and introduce, increase or enhance beneficial aspects in order to improve a “wellness” or sense of “wellbeing” provided via the environments. Control of intensity and wavelength distribution of passive and active Illumination addresses various issues, symptoms or syndromes, for instance to maintain a circadian rhythm or cycle, adjust for “jet lag” or season affective disorder, etc. Air quality and attributes are controlled. Scent(s) may be dispersed. Hypoallergenic items (e.g., bedding, linens) may be used. Water quality is controlled. Noise is reduced and sounds (e.g., masking, music, natural) may be provided. Passive and active pathogen controls are employed. Controls are provided for the occupant and/or facility personnel, as is instruction, and surveys, including assessing wellness. | 2014-03-06 |
20140067131 | HOME APPLIANCE AND ONLINE SYSTEM INCLUDING THE SAME - An online system, including a smart laundry machine, which is capable of easily and inexpensively using the smart laundry machine is disclosed. A further extended type of a smart home appliance, an online system including the same, and a method of using the online system are also disclosed. A laundry machine communicates with a server, is remotely controlled by an external terminal through the server, and has a control panel for a user interface. The control panel includes a course selection unit, an option selection unit, a start button, a display unit to display state information of the laundry machine, and a remote service activation input unit to set or cancel remote service activation according to user selection. The remote control is performed only in a case in which the remote service activation is set. | 2014-03-06 |
20140067132 | HVAC CONTROLLER WITH REGRESSION MODEL TO HELP REDUCE ENERGY CONSUMPTION - A thermal control system for a building is disclosed, which includes a regression model: Given a forecast temperature outside the building, the regression model predicts how much an HVAC system will cost to run during a day, for a given set of time-varying target temperatures for all the thermostats in the thermal control system. The thermal control system may also include an optimizer, which invokes multiple applications of the regression model. Given a forecast temperature outside the building, the optimizer predicts an optimal set of time-varying target temperatures for all the thermostats in the thermal control system. Running the HVAC system with the optimal set of time-varying target temperatures should have a reduced or a minimized cost, or a reduced or minimized total energy usage. The optimizer works by running the regression model repeatedly, while adjusting the time-varying target temperature for each thermostat between runs of the model. | 2014-03-06 |
20140067133 | Integrated Information Framework for Automated Performance Analysis of Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) Systems - A computer-implemented method includes, in one aspect, retrieving HVAC system information; converting the retrieved HVAC system information from one or more first data formats to a second data format; storing the converted HVAC system information; identifying first portions of the stored HVAC system information that pertain to a particular component; and generating one or more associations among the identified, first portions of the stored HVAC system information; receiving a request for HVAC system information that is used by a performance analysis algorithm; determining a type of component of the HVAC system that is related to the requested HVAC system information; and identifying one or more items of the stored HVAC system information that is of the requested HVAC system information; and transmitting the identified one or more items of the stored HVAC system information for use in execution of the performance analysis algorithm. | 2014-03-06 |
20140067134 | ACTUATOR WITH DIAGNOSTICS - A system incorporating an actuator. The actuator may have a motor unit with motor controller connected to it. A processor may be connected to the motor controller. A coupling for a shaft connection may be attached to an output of the motor unit. The processor may incorporate a diagnostics program. The processor may be connected to a polarity-insensitive two-wire communications bus. Diagnostic results of the diagnostics program may be communicated from the processor over the communications bus to a system controller. If the diagnostic results communicated from the processor over the communications bus to the system controller indicate an insufficiency of the actuator, then an alarm identifying the insufficiency may be communicated over the communications bus to the system controller. | 2014-03-06 |
20140067135 | AUTOMATED FUNCTIONAL DIAGNOSIS - The invention is based on an HVAC (heating, ventilation and air-conditioning) system which comprises the following components: a) a fluid flow duct ( | 2014-03-06 |
20140067136 | HOME APPLIANCE CONTROL METHOD THEREOF - An electric appliance includes a driving unit operating on the basis of energy information including information with respect to an energy price, a communication unit requesting the energy information to an external component, a memory unit for storing the energy information received through the communication unit, and a control unit controlling the communication unit such that the communication unit receives first energy information corresponding to a present time of the energy information and receives second energy information that is information except for the first energy information. | 2014-03-06 |
20140067137 | System and apparatus for providing and managing electricity. - A system and device for providing power to and monitoring the energy usage of a device connected thereto includes a unit having one or more circuit boards having components for detecting the energy usage of the connected device and an interface for electrically connecting to the device. The unit communicates with a coordinator regarding the connected device or the state of the unit itself. Depending on the communication received from the unit, the coordinator relays the received data to a server and awaits instruction, or immediately commands the unit to take a certain action. If the server receives data from the coordinator, it sends such data to a remote server, saves it, generate reports based thereon, and/or alerts a user regarding same. The user can choose to send a command to the unit or device through the system, for example, to shut down, turn on, or to adjust the power being supplied to the device. | 2014-03-06 |
20140067138 | VIRTUAL CONTROLLER OF ELECTROMECHANICAL CHARACTERISTICS FOR STATIC POWER CONVERTERS - The invention relates to a virtual controller of electromechanical characteristics for a static power converter that includes a PLC ( | 2014-03-06 |
20140067139 | DYNAMIC POWER BUDGET ALLOCATION - A dynamic power budget allocation system includes a plurality of powered subsystems. A power system controller is coupled to the plurality of powered subsystems. The power system controller is operable, for each of a plurality of time intervals, to retrieve power usage data from each of the plurality of subsystems during a current time interval. The power system controller is then operable to project power requirements for the plurality of subsystems for a subsequent time interval using the power usage data. The power system controller is then operable to determine at least one power setting for at least one of the plurality of subsystems using the power requirements, and program the at least one of the plurality of subsystems with the at least one power setting. Each powered subsystem may include a voltage regulator that provides the power usage data and is programmed with the at least one power setting. | 2014-03-06 |
20140067140 | ENERGY MANAGEMENT METHODS AND SYSTEMS BASED ON FINANCIAL IMPACT - Energy management methods and systems based on financial impact are disclosed herein, wherein an energy management system at a site monitors metered energy consumption, establishes a peak consumption level, determines whether energy consumption will result in an increased peak consumption level, and if it will, calculates the financial value and costs of mitigating an increase in the peak consumption level, including an increase in demand charge prospectively avoided, and mitigates the peak in consumption to the peak consumption level using an energy storage system or other energy providing device if the value of mitigating the peak offsets the inherent costs. Embodiments may further use confidence factors or incremental changes to a peak consumption level to optimize the process and utilize energy devices to their greatest effectiveness. | 2014-03-06 |
20140067141 | POWER CONTROL EQUIPMENT, POWER CONTROL SYSTEM, AND POWER CONTROL METHOD - According to one embodiment, a communication interface, a power trajectory calculating unit, and an activation control unit are provided. The communication interface acquires data regarding a power value transmitted to the activated power consumption bodies. The power trajectory calculating unit calculates a trajectory of the power value transmitted to the activated power consumption bodies. The activation control unit controls an activation of an inactive power consumption body based on the trajectory of the power value. | 2014-03-06 |