27th week of 2010 patent applcation highlights part 44 |
Patent application number | Title | Published |
20100174337 | PACE COUNTER ISOLATION FOR CARDIAC RESYNCHRONIZATION PACING - A system and method recording sensing and pacing events in a cardiac rhythm management device. The method may be particularly useful in assessment of pacing parameters for ventricular resynchronization therapy. | 2010-07-08 |
20100174338 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR QUESTION-BASED PROGRAMMING OF CARDIAC RHYTHM MANAGEMENT DEVICES - A cardiac rhythm management (CRM) system includes a programming device that identifies the device type of an implantable medical device, selects a predetermined questioning sequence based on the device type, and interacts with a user through a user interface screen by conducting a question-and-answer session according to the predetermined questioning sequence. After displaying a question and receiving an answer to the question, the programming device sets one or more programmable parameter values and/or displays a follow-up question in response to the answer. The programming device also allows the user to enter one or more programmable parameter values directly during or after the question-and-answer session. The implantable medical device is programmed to operate in one or more operational modes based on at least the answers received from the user during the question-and-answer session and the parameter values entered by the user, if any. | 2010-07-08 |
20100174339 | METHOD OF USING SPINAL CORD STIMULATION TO TREAT GASTROINTESTINAL AND/OR EATING DISORDERS OR CONDITIONS - The present invention involves a method and a system for using electrical stimulation to treat gastrointestinal and/or eating disorders. More particularly, the method comprises surgically implanting an electrical stimulation lead that is in communication with predetermined thoracic vertebral segments to cause spinal nervous tissue stimulation, thus treating a wide variety of gastrointestinal disorders. | 2010-07-08 |
20100174340 | Methods and Apparatus for Applying Energy to Patients - The present invention provides systems, apparatus and methods for selectively applying electrical energy to body tissue. More specifically, systems and methods are provided for introducing a flowable electrode to a target site within the patient such that the flowable electrode converts to a hardened electrode after being introduced to the target site. An electrical impulse is applied to the hardened electrode to modulate one or more nerve(s) at the target site. The electrode preferably comprises a conductive polymer material. | 2010-07-08 |
20100174341 | Obstructive Sleep Apnea Treatment Devices, Systems and Methods - Devices, systems and methods of neurostimulation for treating obstructive sleep apnea. | 2010-07-08 |
20100174342 | TREMOR REDUCTION SYSTEMS SUITABLE FOR SELF-APPLICATION AND USE IN DISABLED PATIENTS - Apparatus for tremor reduction including a sensor for sensing muscle movements, a stimulation/recording electrode unit for providing Functional Electrical Stimulation (FES) to a muscle, the stimulation/recording electrode unit including a filter for filtering around a tremor frequency to ignore slow movements and high frequency noise associated with the muscle movements that were sensed, and a processor for generating a set of relationships of muscle response to the FES, called FES-muscle-response relationships, and for selecting a new FES for application to the muscle in accordance with acquired knowledge of the FES-muscle-response relationships. An apparatus and a helmet for effecting proper alignment and application of a stimulation/recording electrode to a patient's arm and neck region, respectively, are also described. | 2010-07-08 |
20100174343 | APPARATUS AND METHODS FOR FACILITATING WOUND HEALING AND TREATING SKIN - Electrode systems and methods are provided for applying electrical stimulation to a wound or skin. The electrode systems may include a feedback sensor configured to detect at least one wound healing factor or other treatment factors and may adjust the electrical stimulation based on feedback sensor measurements. The electrode systems may include multiple center electrodes for attachment to the wound. Multiple therapies may be stored on the electrode systems and a selected one of the stored therapies may be applied. A timer may be included to indicate the length of time a therapy has been applied. The electrode system may include a control module configured as a flexible circuit which conforms to the shape of the wound or the skin to which it is applied. In addition, a medical kit may be supplied for use in applying therapies, including multiple control modules and multiple electrodes. | 2010-07-08 |
20100174344 | OPTICAL NEURAL STIMULATING DEVICE HAVING A SHORT STIMULATING ASSEMBLY - A cochlear implant is provided. The cochlear implant comprises a stimulator unit configured to generate electrical stimulation signals based on sound processor-encoded signals, and to generate one or more optical stimulation signals, and an implantable stimulating assembly. The implantable stimulating assembly is configured to be implanted into a basal region of a recipient's cochlea such that when the stimulating assembly is fully implanted, a distal end of the assembly extends to the basal turn of the cochlea. The stimulating assembly also comprises: an optical contact to deliver the one or more optical stimulation signals to the cochlea, and an electrical contact to deliver the electric stimulation signals to a basal region of the cochlea so as to cause perception by the recipient of one or more frequency components of the acoustic sound signal. | 2010-07-08 |
20100174345 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR PROVIDING ILLUMINATION AND PHYSIOLOGICAL STIMULI - Disclosed herein are methods and systems for emitting light that can provide a desired light-induced physiological stimulus and a desired luminous stimulus. The light can be controlled to vary the physiological stimulus within a predetermined first range while maintaining the luminous stimulus within a predetermined second range that is useful for a number of self and/or space illumination applications. For example, an apparatus may include a controller for controlling the drive currents supplied to a plurality of light-emitting elements having different spectral characteristics, wherein the combination of currents is controlled such that the mixed light emitted is associated with the desired physiological and luminous stimuli. | 2010-07-08 |
20100174346 | System, devices, and methods including actively-controllable sterilizing excitation delivery implants - Systems, devices, methods, and compositions are described for providing an actively-controllable disinfecting implantable device configured to, for example, treat or prevent an infection in a biological subject. | 2010-07-08 |
20100174347 | DEVICES AND METHODS FOR CARDIOVASCULAR REFLEX CONTROL VIA COUPLED ELECTRODES - Devices, systems and methods are disclosed by which the blood pressure, nervous system activity, and neurohormonal activity may be selectively and controllably reduced by activating baroreceptors. A baroreceptor activation device is positioned near a baroreceptor, preferably a baroreceptor located in the carotid sinus. A control system may be used to modulate the baroreceptor activation device. The control system may utilize an algorithm defining a stimulus regimen which promotes long term efficacy and reduces power requirements/consumption. The baroreceptor activation device may utilize RF-coupled or other electrodes to activate the baroreceptors. The electrodes may be adapted for connection to the carotid arteries at or near the carotid sinus, and may be designed to minimize extraneous tissue stimulation. | 2010-07-08 |
20100174348 | MRI COMPATIBLE ELECTRICAL LEAD FOR AN IMPLANTED ELECTRONIC MEDICAL DEVICE - An electrical lead, for implantation in an animal, is compatible with an MRI scanner. The electrical lead has a first plurality of coiled insulated wires forming an outer layer of conductors that has a first inductance and a first capacitance, which act as a first parallel resonator tuned to a Larmor frequency of tissue in the animal. The lead may have a second plurality of coiled insulated wires forming an inner layer of conductors within the outer layer of conductors. The second plurality of coiled insulated wires has a second inductance and a second capacitance that act as a second parallel resonator tuned to the Larmor frequency. Those parallel resonators mitigate signals at the Larmor frequency from traveling along the respective coil. An electrically conductive layer extends around the inner and/or outer layer of conductors, and a layer of a biologically compatible material forms the electrical lead's exterior surface. | 2010-07-08 |
20100174349 | SYSTEM FOR TERMINATING ABANDONED IMPLANTED LEADS TO MINIMIZE HEATING IN HIGH POWER ELECTROMAGNETIC FIELD ENVIRONMENTS - An energy management system facilitates the transfer of high frequency energy coupled into an implanted abandoned lead at a selected RF frequency or frequency band, to an energy dissipating surface. This is accomplished by conductively coupling the implanted abandoned lead to the energy dissipating surface of an abandoned lead cap through an energy diversion circuit including one or more passive electronic network components whose impedance characteristics are at least partially tuned to the implanted abandoned lead's impedance characteristics. | 2010-07-08 |
20100174350 | NOVEL MEDICAL DEVICE CONDUCTOR JUNCTIONS - A method for making an elongate medical device includes coupling a conductive fitting to an elongate conductor and providing an opening through an insulative layer in proximity to the fitting in order to expose the fitting. | 2010-07-08 |
20100174351 | CHEMICALLY AND BIOLOGICALLY MODIFIED MEDICAL DEVICES - Biocompatible materials for use in vascular applications or for implantation have been engineered, combining human recombinant tropoelastin with other synthetic or natural biomaterials to form protoelastin. The materials can be in the form of elastin films on metal or polymer substrates, laminates of alternating polymer and elastin, blends of polymer and elastin, or elastin crosslinked with or tethered to polymer or metal. These are mechanically stable, elastic, strong and biocompatible (i.e., not thrombogenic and promoting adhesion of cells, especially human endothelial cells), not eliciting a foreign body response. Plasma polymerization of substrate is shown to enhance biocompatibility, especially when used to bind elastin or other protein to the substrate. | 2010-07-08 |
20100174352 | Catheter system for angioplasty and stenting with embolic protection - Apparatus and methods are described for performing angioplasty and stenting with embolic protection. A catheter system includes an angioplasty balloon catheter, a balloon-expandable stent, an embolic protection device and a linking device. The catheter system has an undeployed configuration in which the balloon-expandable stent is mounted on the inflatable angioplasty balloon in an uninflated condition, the embolic protection member is positioned distally to the balloon-expandable stent and the angioplasty balloon, and the linking device is mounted on the catheter shaft of the angioplasty balloon catheter and the device shaft of the embolic protection device. The linking device prevents any relative longitudinal motion of the angioplasty balloon catheter and the embolic protection device, which might lead to accidental dislodgement of the balloon-expandable stent. | 2010-07-08 |
20100174353 | Drug-Polymer Coated Stent - The present invention provides a method and system for loading drug onto a stent. The method comprises positioning at least one polymer coated stent on a mandrel, positioning a drug infused sheath onto the stent and diffusing drug from the sheath into the polymer coating of the stent. The system includes a drug coated mandrel and sheath positioned adjacent to and in contact with a polymer coated stent. | 2010-07-08 |
20100174354 | STENT PLACEMENT DEVICE AND STENT PLACEMENT METHOD - A stent placement device and a stent placement method, despite a simple structure thereof, can surely and readily deploy a stent by placing a distal end thereof prior to a proximal end thereof, having favorably low invasiveness, and smoothly insert and arrange the stent into a desired position, without damaging an internal lumen inner wall. A placement device | 2010-07-08 |
20100174355 | DELIVERY AND RECOVERY SHEATHS FOR MEDICAL DEVICES - A deployment control system provides controlled deployment of an embolic protection device which may include a guide wire, an expandable filter attached to the guide wire near its distal end, and a restraining sheath that maintains the expanded filter in a collapsed position. The deployment control system includes a torque control device which allows the physician to torque the guide wire into the patient's anatomy and a mechanism for preventing the guide wire from buckling as the restraining sheath is being retracted to deploy the expandable filter. A recovery control system for recovering the embolic protection device includes an inner catheter which extends within a lumen of an outer recovery sheath in a coaxial arrangement. A distal portion of the inner catheter extends beyond another recovery sheath during advancement of the recovery system into the vasculature. The recovery sheath can be advanced over the inner catheter to collapse the expandable filter. The proximal ends of the inner catheter and recovery sheath include handle portions having snap mechanisms which hold the components together as the recovery system is being advanced into the patient's vasculature. | 2010-07-08 |
20100174356 | STENT GRAFTS WITH BIOACTIVE COATINGS - Stent grafts are provided comprising an endoluminal stent and a graft, wherein the stent graft releases an agent which induces the in vivo adhesion of the stent graft to vessel walls, or, otherwise induces or accelerates an in vivo fibrotic reaction causing said stent graft to adhere to vessel wall. Also provided are methods for making and using such stent grafts. | 2010-07-08 |
20100174357 | Vascular Prosthesis of Varying Flexibility - A vascular prosthesis including a tubular body and a plurality of independent support members disposed on a surface of the tubular body. Spacing between the independent support members is varied to vary the flexibility of the vascular prosthesis. | 2010-07-08 |
20100174358 | Multi-Segment Modular Stent And Methods For Manufacturing Stents - A modular stent comprises at least one stent module including an intermediate segment consisting of one of either a closed-cell segment or a Z-segment and a pair of end segments connected to respective longitudinal ends of said intermediate segment, each end segment consisting of the other of said closed-cell segment or Z-segment, each closed-cell segment consisting solely of at least one annular closed-cell ring and each Z-segment consisting solely of at least one annular Z-ring. A method of manufacturing a stent form a small diameter tube includes laser-cutting the small diameter tube to define a plurality of longitudinally adjacent Z-rings, providing interconnector portions of said tube integrally joining facing aligned or offset Z-rings, expanding the small diameter tube, and removing predetermined interconnector portions from the expanded tube to provide the predetermined desired arrangement of interconnected closed-cell rings and Z-rings. | 2010-07-08 |
20100174359 | Methods and Systems for Stent-Valve Manufacture and Assembly - Embodiments of the current disclosure provide a bioprosthetic heart valve and methods of assembling and usage of the same. | 2010-07-08 |
20100174360 | Medical Devices and Methods of Making the Same - An endoprosthesis, such as a stent, having a layer that can enhance the biocompatibility of the endoprosthesis, and methods of making the endoprosthesis are disclosed. | 2010-07-08 |
20100174361 | PROSTHETIC VALVE WITH SEMI-RIGID AND FLEXIBLE LEAFLETS - The invention relates to a prosthetic valve for regulating fluid flow through a body lumen. The valve includes a frame and a valve member comprising at least one semi-rigid leaflet and at least one flexible leaflet. | 2010-07-08 |
20100174362 | Medical Device for Treating A Heart Valve Insufficiency or Stenosis - A medical device for treating a heart valve insufficiency, with an endoprosthesis which can be introduced into a patient's body and expanded to secure a heart valve prosthesis in the patient's aorta with a catheter. In an embodiment, the endoprosthesis has a plurality of positioning arches configured to be positioned with respect to a patient's aorta and a plurality of retaining arches to support a heart valve prosthesis. The endoprosthesis includes a collapsed mode during the process of introducing it into the patient's body and an expanded mode when it is implanted. The endoprosthesis may be introduced into a patient's body and expanded via a catheter. In an embodiment, the catheter has first and second slide mechanisms configured to independently manipulate first and second sleeve elements to sequentially expand the endoprosthesis from the collapsed mode to the expanded mode. | 2010-07-08 |
20100174363 | One Piece Prosthetic Valve Support Structure and Related Assemblies - Valve prostheses are disclosed that are adapted for secure and aligned placement relative to a heart annulus. The valve prostheses may be placed in a non-invasive manner, e.g., via trans-catheter techniques. The valve prosthesis may include a support ring, a plurality of leaflet membranes mounted with respect to the support ring, and a plurality of retention clip elements. The support structure is advantageously formed from a tubular member or flat stock of shape memory metal. A delivery system for delivery of a valve prosthesis embodying the disclosed support structure is also disclosed. | 2010-07-08 |
20100174364 | IMPLANTABLE VALVE PROSTHESIS WITH INDEPENDENT FRAME ELEMENTS - An implantable valve prosthesis is provided. The valve prosthesis includes a frame structure having first and second independent frame elements. A graft member is attached to both the first and second frame elements and includes a closure member, such as a valve leaflet. The closure member is movable between a first position that allows fluid flow through the prosthesis in a first, antegrade direction and a second position that restricts flow through the prosthesis in a second, retrograde direction. | 2010-07-08 |
20100174365 | MITRAL ANNULOPLASTY RING - A mitral annuloplasty ring composed of a D-shaped annular structure and made of rigid or semi-rigid material, a coating of the annular structure made of inert tissue and suited to be fixed with sutures to the heart tissues, and a pair of movable and sliding metal or plastic strips positioned in a folded conformation inside the annular structure and having a first end fixed to a rectilinear or circular portion of the annular structure and a second end resting on a curved portion of the annular structure. | 2010-07-08 |
20100174366 | EUSTACHIAN TUBE DEVICE - The present invention provides a device stenting the ET. The stent (device) provides enhanced ventilation and drainage to the middle ear. Also provided is a method for inserting the device into the Eustachian tube and through the isthmus of a human subject. | 2010-07-08 |
20100174367 | IMPLANTABLE MEDICAL DEVICES COMPRISING BIO-DEGRADABLE ALLOYS - The invention provides medical devices comprising high-strength alloys which degrade over time in the body of a human or animal, at controlled degradation rates, without generating emboli. In one embodiment the alloy is formed into a bone fixation device such as an anchor, screw, plate, support or rod. In another embodiment the alloy is formed into a tissue fastening device such as staple. In yet another embodiment, the alloy is formed into a dental implant or a stent. | 2010-07-08 |
20100174368 | PLATELET-DERIVED GROWTH FACTOR COMPOSITIONS AND METHODS FOR THE TREATMENT OF TENDON AND LIGAMENT INJURIES - The invention provides compositions and methods for treatment of tendon and ligament injuries and/or repair of damaged tendons and ligament. The invention provides compositions comprising a biocompatible matrix and platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF). | 2010-07-08 |
20100174369 | GRAFT FIXATION DEVICE - A graft fixation device ( | 2010-07-08 |
20100174370 | PALATAL IMPLANT - A device for modifying an eating behavior of a subject is provided. The device is configured for implantation within the oral cavity and is capable of altering a palatal vault of the subject. | 2010-07-08 |
20100174371 | Artificial intervertebral disc trials having a cylindrical engagement surface - Instrumentation for implanting an artificial intervertebral disc includes static trials, the static trials including first and second trial baseplates immovably coupled to one another via a trunk extending therebetween, each trial baseplate having an outwardly facing surface approximating a contour of a corresponding outwardly facing surface of an articifial intervertebral disc baseplate, at least one of the trial baseplates having a plurality of engagement holes extending into the at least one of the trial baseplates in a direction substantially perpendicular to each of a plurality of a surgical approach directions used to insert the trial into the intervertebral space, each of the plurality of engagement holes being disposed on the at least one of the trial baseplates to correspond to a respective one of the surgical approach directions such that selection for use of one of the plurality of engagement holes corresponds to selection of the respective surgical approach. | 2010-07-08 |
20100174372 | PLASTIC IMPLANT IMPREGNATED WITH A DEGRADATION PROTECTOR - A plastic implant device for a mammal that contains a rare earth metal compound tracer and a method for detecting degradation such as wear of the implanted device are disclosed. The tracer can also be present with a separate antioxidant or the tracer compound can be can be the salt of a C | 2010-07-08 |
20100174373 | EXPANDABLE SPINAL PROSTHESIS - A device is disclosed for insertion in the human or animal body in order to increase the spacing between adjacent spinous processes of the spinal column. The device comprises a plurality of shaped members which are pivotally joined to each other and arranged around a central screwed rod which is supported by a collar at one end and a threaded collar at the opposite end said collar and collar being located within the pivoting axis of the adjacent members forming each end of the device. Following insertion in the body and positioning between adjacent spinous processes the device may be deployed by rotation of the central screwed rod in order to achieve the desired separation of adjacent spinous processes while at the same time providing a secure location of the device in the deployed condition. | 2010-07-08 |
20100174374 | DYNAMIC SPINAL IMPLANTS INCORPORATING CARTILAGE BEARING GRAFT MATERIAL - A dynamic spinal implant utilizes cartilage bearing graft material in dynamic disc replacement and/or facet arthroplasty. Methods and apparatus for dynamic spinal implants incorporate bulk articular graft tissues derived from donor joint sources in human (allograft or autograft) or non-human (xenograft) tissue. The donor joint is preferably prepared as a biological dynamic spinal implant with articular cartilage as a bearing interface between adjacent bone surfaces that naturally articulate with respect to one another. | 2010-07-08 |
20100174375 | Spinal Tissue Distraction Devices - Spinal tissue distraction devices that include at least one guide member for guiding a distraction device to a location between layers of spinal tissue. The guide member has a proximal end portion and a distal end portion. The distal end portion is adapted for insertion between the tissue layers and defines a shape of a desired support structure. The distraction device is slidably mounted on the guide member for advancing the distraction device distally along the guide member for insertion of the distraction device between the tissue layers. The distraction device substantially conforms to the shape defined by the distal end portion of the guide member to form a support structure that separates, supports or both separates and supports the tissue layers. | 2010-07-08 |
20100174376 | Joint Arthroplasty Devices Formed In Situ - Disclosed herein are methods and devices for repairing articular surfaces. The articular surface repairs are customizable or highly selectable by patient and geared toward providing optimal fit and function. | 2010-07-08 |
20100174377 | RETICULATED PARTICLE POROUS COATING FOR MEDICAL IMPLANT USE - A composition, a medical implant constructed from the composition, and a method of making the composition are described. The composition comprises a porous-coated substrate, the porous coating comprising a reticulated particle coating, the coating being formed by fusing the reticulated particle to the surface, preferably by sintering. | 2010-07-08 |
20100174378 | Knee Joint Prosthesis System and Method for Implantation - A prosthesis system for replacing a knee joint between a femur and a tibia can include a femoral component, a tibial component, a bearing, a first yoke, and a first key. The femoral component can include a first condylar portion, a second condylar portion, a first sidewall extending superiorly from the first condylar portion, a second sidewall extending superiorly from the second condylar portion where the first and second sidewalls collectively comprise a first hinge portion. The tibial component can have a bone engaging inferior surface and a bearing engaging superior surface. The bearing can have an inferior that engages the bearing engaging surface and a superior femoral engaging surface. The bearing can define an opening. The first yoke can have an inferior portion, a superior portion and a yoke keyway extending through the therethrough. | 2010-07-08 |
20100174379 | KNEE PROSTHESES - A total knee prosthesis comprises a femoral component and a patellar component. The femoral component has a patellar flange into which is built a twist or roller coaster configuration. The patellar component has an off-set dome with respective lateral and medial facets. The configuration of the patellar flange resists forces from a medial to a lateral direction, whilst the lateral and medial facets of the patellar component are respectively shaped to allow area contact and line contact respectively with the femoral component. Also disclosed is a device for intra-operative checking of patellar tracking to allow correct insertion of the femoral and patellar components. | 2010-07-08 |
20100174380 | EXTENDED RANGE OF MOTION, CONSTRAINED PROSTHETIC HIP-JOINT - A prosthetic hip-joint includes: a. a prosthetic acetabulum cup for implantation into a pelvis; b. a prosthetic femoral assembly which includes: i. a ball-shaped femoral head that during implantation becomes located within the cup; and ii. a femoral stem that is fixed at a first end to the head, and that has a second end distal from the first end which is adapted for implant into a medullary canal of a femur, and c. a liner assembly adapted to he secured to the cup and is also adapted to receive and to constrain the head against dislocation. In one aspect the hip-joint permits the head to rotate through an angle which exceeds at least 153 degrees while concurrently constraining the head against dislocation. In another aspect the hip joint constrains the head a dislocation by a preestablished amount of force which is adjustable during implantation thereof. | 2010-07-08 |
20100174381 | Suction stent - The present invention relates to a stent for introduction into a hollow organ, in particular the gastrointestinal tract, of a human or animal patient, which brings about vacuum sealing of leaks, such as anastomosis insufficiencies, in the hollow organ. | 2010-07-08 |
20100174382 | BONE TISSUE IMPLANT COMPRISING STRONTIUM IONS - The present invention is based on that local administration of strontium ions in bone tissue has been found to improve the bone formation and bone mass upon implantation of a bone tissue implant in said bone tissue. | 2010-07-08 |
20100174383 | CERAMIC LAYERED MEDICAL IMPLANT - A new composition and medical implant made there from comprises a thick diffusion hardened zone, and layered ceramic surface. Orthopedic implants comprising the new composition, methods of making the new composition, and methods of making orthopedic implants comprising the new composition are disclosed. | 2010-07-08 |
20100174384 | HYBRID TERRAIN-ADAPTIVE LOWER-EXTREMITY SYSTEMS - Hybrid terrain-adaptive lower-extremity apparatus and methods that perform in a variety of different situations by detecting the terrain that is being traversed, and adapting to the detected terrain. In some embodiments, the ability to control the apparatus for each of these situations builds upon five basic capabilities: (1) determining the activity being performed; (2) dynamically controlling the characteristics of the apparatus based on the activity that is being performed; (3) dynamically driving the apparatus based on the activity that is being performed; (4) determining terrain texture irregularities (e.g., how sticky is the terrain, how slippery is the terrain, is the terrain coarse or smooth, does the terrain have any obstructions, such as rocks) and (5) a mechanical design of the apparatus that can respond to the dynamic control and dynamic drive. | 2010-07-08 |
20100174385 | Hybrid Terrain-Adaptive Lower-Extremity Systems - Hybrid terrain-adaptive lower-extremity apparatus and methods that perform in a variety of different situations by detecting the terrain that is being traversed, and adapting to the detected terrain. In some embodiments, the ability to control the apparatus for each of these situations builds upon five basic capabilities: (1) determining the activity being performed; (2) dynamically controlling the characteristics of the apparatus based on the activity that is being performed; (3) dynamically driving the apparatus based on the activity that is being performed; (4) determining terrain texture irregularities (e.g., how sticky is the terrain, how slippery is the terrain, is the terrain coarse or smooth, does the terrain have any obstructions, such as rocks) and (5) a mechanical design of the apparatus that can respond to the dynamic control and dynamic drive. | 2010-07-08 |
20100174386 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR ROUTING DATA IN AN AUTOMATIC IDENTIFICATION SYSTEM - A system for routing data in an automatic identification system includes an event management system (EMS), a real-time in-memory data structure (RIED) coupled to the EMS, the RIED for storing event information gathered by the EMS and a task management system (TMS) for ensuring that the RIED is updated by one transaction at a time. With this particular arrangement, a system for managing a large number of real-time events is provided. In one embodiment, the control system can be provided in a distributed hierarchical arrangement. The EMS of each control system can include filters which limit the amount of information provided to the next level in the hierarchy. In this manner the hierarchical control system network acts as a high volume data collector and processor. In some embodiments a level of the hierarchy can be removed spatially and/or temporally from an adjacent level in the hierarchy. This approach results in an intelligent network and also lends itself to scalability. By including optional filters and queues in the EMS, the EMS can be configured as desired. | 2010-07-08 |
20100174387 | PROGRAMMABLE CONTROLLER - The value of fixed cycle time is adjusted to an optimum value in a short period of time. In a second operational mode (MON) of a PLC, a series of a plurality of system processes are repeatedly performed with a change to a user program in a peripheral service process being allowed. A change to fixed cycle time to be compared with actual cycle time is prohibited in a first operational mode (RUN) but is allowed in the second operational mode (MON) and a non-operational mode (PRG). | 2010-07-08 |
20100174388 | Live Device Graphical Status Tree - A system and method is provided for storing hierarchical inputs for a field device in a control system, including upper level inputs in the form of data relating to the process under control, received from a plurality of input devices, and lower level inputs generated by the field devices using the upper level inputs. A record of dependencies among the hierarchical inputs is maintained, along with the status of each of the hierarchical inputs, which is transformed into a graphical status tree representation thereof, including the dependencies shown as one or more hierarchical flow paths. The status of the hierarchical inputs in the graphical status tree is identified by applying a visual marker to inputs having a normal status, and applying other visual markers to inputs having an error status to highlight erroneous flow paths. | 2010-07-08 |
20100174389 | AUTOMATIC AUDIO SOURCE SEPARATION WITH JOINT SPECTRAL SHAPE, EXPANSION COEFFICIENTS AND MUSICAL STATE ESTIMATION - A method is provided that comprises segmenting an audio source file; optimizing a model based upon probability; and separating the audio source file. | 2010-07-08 |
20100174390 | Solid-State Music Player And Host Docking System - A solid-state music player has a writable and erasable memory for storing music and a digital music player application, a speaker system for providing audio, a rechargeable battery for powering on the music player, and an interactive touch screen interface for controlling the functions and features of the music player. The solid-state music player may be removably docked into a docking bay provided in a communications device and then ejected for play in standalone mode. | 2010-07-08 |
20100174391 | Remote Control System and Relay Unit - A remote control system includes a commander, a device to be controlled, and a relay unit. The commander transmits a start command and an end command, and a continuation command at intervals of first specific time after transmission of the start command until the end command is transmitted. The relay unit includes a control unit that causes a control signal transmission unit to start transmitting the control signal in response to receipt of the start command and that causes the control signal transmission unit to stop transmitting the control signal in response to receipt of the end command. The control unit causes the control signal transmission unit to stop transmitting the control signal when the next command is not received even after elapse of a second specific time since the command is received, the second specific time being longer than the first specific time. | 2010-07-08 |
20100174392 | OPTIMAL DIMENSIONAL AND MECHANICAL PROPERTIES OF LASER SINTERED HARDWARE BY THERMAL ANALYSIS AND PARAMETER OPTIMIZATION - A process for establishing manufacturing parameters includes computer simulating a manufacture of a laser-sintered part based on a set of manufacturing parameters, calculating a set of physical properties of the simulated manufacture, and modifying the set of manufacturing parameters based on the calculated set in order to obtain a desired set of physical properties. | 2010-07-08 |
20100174393 | PHOTOMASK WITH DETECTOR FOR OPTIMIZING AN INTEGRATED CIRUCIT PRODUCTION PROCESS AND METHOD OF MANUFACTURING AN INTEGRATED CIRCUIT USING THE SAME - A photomask for integrated circuit production comprising a substrate, one or more layers and a detector for monitoring a process parameter of the integrated circuit production in combination with one or more of the following: communication circuitry for communicating with external equipment for the integrated circuit production, a computational processor for analyzing the monitored process parameter, and a data storage component. In addition, a method of integrated circuit production comprising the steps of providing a photomask in the integrated circuit production process and monitoring a process parameter of the integrated circuit production using the photomask, in combination with one or more following steps: analyzing the monitored process parameter using the photomask; communicating the monitored process parameter from the photomask to external equipment involved in the integrated circuit production; and storing the monitored process parameter in the photomask. For example, the photomask embodying aspects of the present invention may monitor and track the process parameter of a stepper during the integrated circuit production. The monitored data may be analyzed against the production information to determine possible adjustment or alteration to the integrated circuit production steps. | 2010-07-08 |
20100174394 | APPARATUS FOR THE REMOVAL OF BOTTLES OR CONTAINERS FROM A BOTTLE OR CONTAINER CLEANING ARRANGEMENT IN A BOTTLE OR CONTAINER FILLING PLANT - An apparatus for the removal of bottles or containers from a bottle or container cleaning arrangement in a bottle or container filling plant. The abstract of the disclosure is submitted herewith as required by 37 C.F.R. §1.72(b). As stated in 37 C.F.R. §1.72(b): A brief abstract of the technical disclosure in the specification must commence on a separate sheet, preferably following the claims, under the heading “Abstract of the Disclosure.” The purpose of the abstract is to enable the Patent and Trademark Office and the public generally to determine quickly from a cursory inspection the nature and gist of the technical disclosure. The abstract shall not be used for interpreting the scope of the claims. Therefore, any statements made relating to the abstract are not intended to limit the claims in any manner and should not be interpreted as limiting the claims in any manner. | 2010-07-08 |
20100174395 | INTEGRATED TESTING SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR VALIDATION OF A MANUFACTURING AUTOMATION SYSTEM - A method of testing a physical manufacturing automation system for manufactured work pieces is provided via a testing system and includes connecting a computer-simulated manufacturing automation system to a controller of the physical manufacturing automation system, wherein the computer-simulated manufacturing automation system is configured to represent a portion of the physical manufacturing automation system, including a simulated work piece. The method then includes concurrently running the physical manufacturing automation system and the computer-simulated manufacturing automation system via the controller, with the physical automation system running in the absence of the physical work pieces. | 2010-07-08 |
20100174396 | Ontology Model to Accelerate Engineering Analysis in Manufacturing - An engineering analysis tool comprises a unified resource model-based (URM) objective and tool mapping capability for linking engineering analysis objectives to analysis tools. A Markov chain-based analysis plan generator (APTG) for reusing engineering analysis plans may be included in the engineering analysis tool. Further, the engineering analysis tool comprises a graphic symptom capturer (GSC) that auto-captures engineering perceived fault symptoms from engineering data analysis (EDA) tools. | 2010-07-08 |
20100174397 | PROCESSING APPARATUS AND OPERATING METHOD THEREFOR - Disclosed is a processing apparatus to restrain load of a common usage system shared by a plurality of liquid processing modules. A processing module group includes k sets of share groups comprising a plurality of processing modules to perform an identical processing for each substrate (where, k≧2), each set of share groups includes n processing modules (where, n≧2), and each processing module includes the common usage system shared by n processing modules in each set and having a maximum capacity capable of processing m processing modules (where m≦n). A carrying mechanism repeatedly loads a substrate one by one to the processing module of each set in sequence. At this time, (1) after the completion of the processing in one processing module that uses the common usage system, the substrate is loaded into another processing module in the same set, or (2) without waiting for the completion of the processing in one processing module, the substrate is loaded into another processing module and then the processing is started in another processing module after the completion of the processing in one processing module. | 2010-07-08 |
20100174398 | POSITION MEASURING APPARATUS AND COATING APPARATUS - A position measuring apparatus includes a distance measuring part which obtains at least three pieces of distance information between at least three measurement points on a measured plane of an object and a displacement sensor, an imaging part which images a projection image on the measured plane of the object, and a calculating part which obtains tilt information of the measured plane based on the at least three distance information pieces and obtains position information of the object based on the tilt information and the projection image. | 2010-07-08 |
20100174399 | VOLUME ELEMENT PRINTING SYSTEM WITH PRINTHEAD GROUPS OF VARYING VERTICAL DISPLACEMENT FROM SUBSTRATE - A volume element (voxel) printing system for printing a three-dimensional object includes a first printhead group having a plurality of first printheads configured to print a first voxel layer on a substrate; at least one second printhead group having a plurality of second printheads downstream from the first group, the second printhead group configured to print a subsequent voxel layer on at least part of the first layer, said second printheads being reconfigurable as backup printheads for the first printheads in case of failure; a conveyor configured to convey the substrate past the printhead groups; and a control system configured to control and monitor the printhead groups, the object insertion device, and the conveyor, and dynamically to reconfigure the second printheads upon detection of failure of a first printhead. The at least one second printhead group is vertically spaced from the substrate by a greater distance than the first printhead group. | 2010-07-08 |
20100174400 | Garment manufacturing method - A garment manufacturing method edits an original drawing having the style of an artistic aesthetic color pattern that goes through the processes of removing background and changing colors, and adopting a designer's fashion design sketch to impose a new pattern from the original drawing to a new fashion design drawing. The style of the fashion is designed by computer pieces, wherein front pieces and back pieces of a garment are arranged to retrieve a new pattern of the original drawing, and computer template pieces are patterned to print a newly created digital graphic file on a blank fabric, and the fabric is cut and sewed according to the template to achieve the effect of fixing the template pieces at desired positions to show the overall expression of lines and patterns of the garment and manifest the visual aesthetic design of the invention. | 2010-07-08 |
20100174401 | APPARATUS FOR PROTECTING CLOSED SPACES FROM FLOODING OR CONTAMINATIONS - An apparatus for protecting closed spaces from flooding or contaminations comprising: a moveable closing element ( | 2010-07-08 |
20100174402 | BANKNOTE STORAGE AND BANKNOTE HANDLING MACHINE - A banknote storage includes a memory unit that stores therein number-of-sheets information for banknotes stored in the banknote storage by denomination being a kind of the banknotes and by category being a classification based on a feature amount of the banknotes. Categories represent classifications when the banknotes are classified by their features. In five classifications defined by ECB, the banknote is classified into two depending on whether the banknote is genuine or counterfeit, and the former is called a genuine note and the latter is called a rejected note. The genuine note is further classified into two depending on how the genuine note is damaged, and one of them without any trouble in its usage is called a fit note and the other one with any trouble assumed in its usage because of being largely damaged is called an unfit note. | 2010-07-08 |
20100174403 | BANKNOTE DEPOSIT MACHINE, PROCESSING SYSTEM AND METHOD - A printed note deposit machine, comprises: a user recognition unit identifying a user with an authenticated person; an inlet unit serving as a receiving teller in which printed notes are deposited; a dispensing unit receiving printed notes deposited in the inlet unit to dispense them in sequence; an identifying unit classifying the dispensed printed notes into four categories of authenticated notes, counterfeit notes, unidentifiable notes, and rejected notes, and identified them with the four categories; a temporary money holder temporarily storing the authenticated, counterfeit, and unidentified notes but the rejected ones therein; a plurality of storage cells storing the printed notes after they are temporarily stored in the previous stage; and a rejection unit accumulating the printed notes identified with the rejected notes by the identifying unit to return them to the user. A printed note deposit system, comprises: a plurality of the printed note deposit machines; a database apparatus installed in a central office and receiving transaction data from the memory of each of the printed note deposit machines to accumulate the transaction data; and a trace unit matching the transaction data accumulated in the database apparatus with transaction data on the detected counterfeit or unidentified notes to track down a user of the unauthenticated notes. | 2010-07-08 |
20100174404 | Processing Storage Devices - A storage device processing system that includes at least one automated transporter, at least one rack accessible by the at least one automated transporter, and multiple test slots housed by the at least one rack. Each test slot is configured to receive a storage device for testing. The storage device processing system includes a conveyor arranged in a loop around and being accessible by the at least one automated transporter. The conveyor receives and transports the storage device thereon. The at least one automated transporter is configured to transfer the storage device between the conveyor and one of the test slots of the at least one rack. | 2010-07-08 |
20100174405 | Automated Material Handling System for Semiconductor Manufacturing Based on a Combination of Vertical Carousels and Overhead Hoists - A highly efficient Automated Material Handling System (AMHS) that allows an overhead hoist transport vehicle to load and unload Work-In-Process (WIP) parts directly to/from one or more WIP storage units included in the system. The AMHS includes an overhead hoist transport subsystem and at least one vertical carousel stocker having a plurality of storage bins. The overhead hoist transport subsystem includes an overhead hoist transport vehicle traveling along a suspended track defining a predetermined route, which runs adjacent to the carousel stocker, thereby allowing the overhead hoist transport vehicle to access a WIP part directly from one of the storage bins. At least one of the storage bins includes a movable shelf operative to move laterally from a first position along the carousel path to a second position near the overhead hoist transport vehicle. The storage unit is at least partially open to allow the movable shelf to move to the second position, thereby allowing the overhead hoist to access a material unit directly from the movable shelf for subsequent transport along the track between various locations within a product manufacturing facility. | 2010-07-08 |
20100174406 | Method of Processing Mailpieces Using Customer Codes Associated With Digital Fingerprints - In a method of processing mailpieces, Customer Applied Identifier (CAI) codes are assigned to the mailpieces by a sender of the mailpieces, and are used by the postal operator while the mailpieces are passing through a postal sorting system. Said CAI codes are recorded in memory in the sorting system in correspondence with first digital fingerprints or image signatures prior to the first pass of the mailpieces through the postal sorting system. While a current mailpiece is passing through the sorting system in a first sorting pass, an image is formed of the surface of the mailpiece that bears a postal address block, and a current fingerprint and location information for locating said mailpiece in the sorting process is derived from the image of said mailpiece. A search is made for a match between said current fingerprint and a first fingerprint recorded in memory in order to retrieve a current CAI code with which said location information is | 2010-07-08 |
20100174407 | LASER PROCESSING ROBOT CONTROL SYSTEM, CONTROL METHOD AND CONTROL PROGRAM MEDIUM - A laser processing robot control system is provided with a robot ( | 2010-07-08 |
20100174408 | SYSTEM AS WELL AS A METHOD FOR CONTROLLING A SELF MOVING ROBOT - A system provided with a base station ( | 2010-07-08 |
20100174409 | Robot slip detection apparatus and method - A technique of detecting a slip of a robot using a particle filter and feature information of a ceiling image is disclosed. A first position of the robot is computed using a plurality of particles, a second position of the robot is computed using the feature information of the ceiling image, and whether a slip has occurred is determined based on a distance between the first position and the second position. | 2010-07-08 |
20100174410 | METHODS, DEVICES, AND SYSTEMS FOR AUTMATED MOVEMENTS INVOLVING MEDICAL ROBOTS - Methods, devices (such as computer readable media), and systems (such as computer systems) for defining and executing automated movements using robotic arms (such as robotic arms configured for use in performing surgical procedures), so that a remotely-located surgeon is relieved from causing the robotic arm to perform the automated movement through movement of an input device such as a hand controller. | 2010-07-08 |
20100174411 | CAM DRIVE SYSTEM FOR AN AUTOMATED MEDICATION CART - The system includes a plurality of vertically spaced medication trays with a base assembly and a motor, responsive to computer commands, mounted on the base assembly. A drive shaft case member extends vertically from the base assembly. A cam assembly includes a plurality of spaced cam members, each cam member having concave portions and lobe portions on a peripheral surface thereof. A first drive clutch selectively engages the motor with both the drive shaft case member and the cam assembly for rotation of both in one direction, while a second drive clutch selectively engages the motor with just the cam assembly for rotation thereof in an opposing direction. The drive shaft case member has a cam follower assembly associated with each cam member, wherein one portion of the cam follower assembly engages the cam element and another portion engages an associated tray when the cam follower engages a selected concave portion on the cam element associated with the tray. | 2010-07-08 |
20100174412 | AIR CONDITIONER AND METHOD FOR DETECTING MALFUNCTION THEREOF - An air conditioner, which automatically detects malfunction, and a method for detecting a malfunction thereof are provided. The method includes: measuring an indoor unit pipe temperature around an indoor heat exchanger during operation of the air conditioner; actuating an indoor expansion valve connected to the indoor heat exchanger to a first state; and detecting whether or not a variation of the indoor unit pipe temperature is abnormal by measuring the indoor unit pipe temperature after actuating the indoor expansion valve to the first state. | 2010-07-08 |
20100174413 | Environmental Apparatus Control System - An environmental apparatus control system provides and transmits a message voluntarily to each resident as to the current control being made to residential space or environment in which the residents are presence. The system includes an apparatus for controlling the residential environment and a plurality of personal terminals belonging to individual residents in the residential environment. Each terminal is utilized to enter one of opposed demands with regard to the residential environment. The system analyzes which one of the opposed demands is predominant and determines a control project of controlling the apparatus in a direction of satisfying the predominant demand. An information provider is included in the system to provide a message indicating the number of each one of the opposed demands, and transmit the message to the personal terminals voluntarily. Thus, each resident can be regularly informed of the control project or how the control is made in consideration of the demands from the individual residents without making any particular requesting action. | 2010-07-08 |
20100174414 | AIR-CONDITIONING SYSTEM - Control units for three indoor units of air conditioners installed in a same indoor space are connected by a communication line. Each of the control units can grasp the detection information of the human detection sensor, preset temperature information of the remote controller, inlet temperature information of the inlet temperature sensor of all of the other air conditioners in the same space. On the basis of the above-mentioned information, each of the control units calculates an air-conditioning load of each of the air-conditioning target spaces and the air-conditioning load of an entire air-conditioning space on the basis of these air-conditioning target spaces in the same manner. A compressor is driven and controlled on the basis of a calculation result thereof to perform a power-saving operation of the entire air-conditioning space. | 2010-07-08 |
20100174415 | STERILE SURGICAL TRAY - A sterile surgical tray includes structure for receiving a plurality of surgical instruments. The sterile surgical tray also may include electrical input and output connectors attached to tray. | 2010-07-08 |
20100174416 | Digital positioning slurry system - A system to provide an efficient, faster, and consistent slurry material application through utilizing a digital positioning receiver and micro controller as means for adjusting output flow rates and percentages of the individual materials within the slurry recipe. | 2010-07-08 |
20100174417 | POWER SUPPLY SYSTEM, AND POWER SUPPLY CONTROL METHOD AND POWER SUPPLY CONTROL PROGRAM EMPLOYED IN POWER SUPPLY SYSTEM - A power supply system | 2010-07-08 |
20100174418 | DISTRIBUTED GRID-INTERACTIVE PHOTOVOLTAIC-BASED POWER DISPATCHING - In one embodiment, each of a plurality of sites may produce surplus power. All or a fraction of the surplus power may be supplied to the power grid according to an agreement between the user of a site and an electric utility. A computer of the utility is in communication with a computer at each of a plurality of sites having a local power source. Terms of power provision that include an amount of power to be provided during a specified time of day is communicated between a site and the utility. | 2010-07-08 |
20100174419 | Consumer Electronic Usage Monitoring and Management - A mechanism for managing energy consumption of electrical devices within a home or building. Energy usage data is collected for a first electrical outlet connected to an unidentified electrical device in a facility. A pattern of energy usage is determined from the energy usage data collected at the first electrical outlet. The pattern of energy usage of the first electrical outlet is then compared against known patterns of energy usage for one or more other electrical outlets. Responsive to identifying a match between the pattern of energy usage of the energy usage data collected at the first electrical outlet and a known pattern of energy usage of a second electrical outlet in the one or more other electrical outlets, the electrical device connected to the first electrical outlet is identified as the same electrical device that is associated with the known pattern of energy usage of the second electrical outlet. | 2010-07-08 |
20100174420 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR ADJUSTING THE REFERENCE IMPEDANCE OF A POWER GENERATOR - A method and apparatus for allowing the user of a power generator coupled to a time-varying load, to define an alternative reference impedance to enable on or more metrics to be provided relative to the alternative reference impedance. The metrics, for example, may provide indicia of performance of the power generator system. One illustrative embodiment provides a power delivery system that applies power to a plasma chamber to create a plasma therein; determines a reference impedance of the plasma at an operating condition; and controls the power delivery system based on the determined reference impedance. | 2010-07-08 |
20100174421 | USER INTERFACE FOR MOBILE DEVICES - A mobile user interface suitable for mobile computing devices uses device position/orientation in real space to select a portion of content that is displayed. Content (e.g., documents, files or a desktop) is presumed fixed in virtual space with the mobile user interface displaying a portion of the content as if viewed through a camera or magnifying glass. Data from motion, distance or position sensors are used to determine the relative position/orientation of the device with respect to the content to select the portion for display. Content elements can be selected by centering the display on the desired portion, obviating the need for cursors and pointing devices (e.g., mouse or touchscreen). Magnification can be manipulated by moving the device away from or towards the user. 3-D content viewing may be enabled by sensing the device orientation and displaying content that is above or below the display in 3-D virtual space. | 2010-07-08 |
20100174422 | Point And Go Navigation System And Method - A remote operator console provides point and go navigation of a robotic vehicle. The remote operator console provides a display for visual representation of the environment in which the robotic vehicle is operating based on sensor information received from the robotic vehicle. An operator may designate a target point on the display. The robotic vehicle is automatically navigated toward a location in the environment corresponding to the designated target point. | 2010-07-08 |
20100174423 | METHOD AND A SYSTEM FOR AUTOMATICALLY MANAGING CHECK LISTS ON AN AIRCRAFT - A method and a system for automatically managing check lists on an aircraft. | 2010-07-08 |
20100174424 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR CRUISE MONITORING AND ALERTING - A monitoring system is disclosed for use with a mobile platform being operated by an operator. The system may make use of a database for containing operational information and procedures relating to the operation of the mobile platform by the operator. A processor may also be used that communicates with the database and with at least one subsystem of the mobile platform for monitoring operational information concerning operation of the mobile platform against stored information contained in the database. The processor may determine if the operation of the mobile platform is proceeding in accordance with predetermined standards. | 2010-07-08 |
20100174425 | METHOD AND DEVICE TO ASSIST IN THE DRIVING OF A VEHICLE, IN PARTICULAR OF AN AIRCRAFT, FOR THE AVOIDANCE OF OBSTACLES - A method and a device to assist in the driving of a vehicle, in particular of an aircraft, for the avoidance of obstacles. | 2010-07-08 |
20100174426 | AIRPLANE EMERGENCY NAVIGATIONAL SYSTEM - An emergency navigational system that monitors the navigation of an aircraft by comparing actual flight parameter data to predefined flight parameter data to thereby determine if the actual flight parameter data deviates beyond a defined value, and if so, activating a navigational controller to at least partially control the navigation of the aircraft. | 2010-07-08 |
20100174427 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR LIMITING IN-TRAIN FORCES OF A RAILROAD TRAIN - A system and method for determining and managing a slack state of a train and for is disclosed. The system acquires railway system parameters for a plurality of railway vehicles and for a track segment traversed by the plurality of railway vehicles, the parameters including a grade of the track segment at each of a plurality of locations therealong and an acceleration of each of the plurality of railway vehicles at each of the plurality of locations. The system calculates a coupler force for each of the plurality of railway vehicles at each of the plurality of locations based on the railway system parameters, determines a slack state for the plurality of railway vehicles based on the calculated coupler forces, and determines a limit on a tractive effort generated by locomotive consists included in the railway vehicles based on the determined slack state. | 2010-07-08 |
20100174428 | Railroad Train Monitoring System - Railcar monitoring utilizes instrumented, flexible pads supported within the truck pedestal jaws on the bearing adapters. The pads contain sensors for monitoring temperature pressure, shifting loads, truck hunting and the like and have circuitry for processing information received from the sensors and for processing and reporting departures of performance variables to a remote source. The system cyclically activates polling each pad on a car and communicates signals of critical departures and car identity to a remote source. | 2010-07-08 |
20100174429 | Control apparatus - A control apparatus for controlling a transmission apparatus that includes: an input member that is drivably connected to a rotating electrical machine being capable of generating regenerative torque based on an engine and a deceleration request of a vehicle; an output member that is drivably connected to wheels; and a speed change mechanism that has a plurality of friction engagement elements that are controlled to be engaged and released so as to switch a plurality of shift speeds, and that shifts a rotation speed of the input member at one of gear ratios set for the shift speeds and outputs the shifted speed to the output member. | 2010-07-08 |
20100174430 | AUTOMOTIVE BRAKING CONTROL APPARATUS AND METHOD THEREOF - An HV-ECU includes a regenerative braking control unit that controls a regenerative braking system based on the target regenerative braiding force indicated by a signal received from a brake ECU, a regeneration stop timing determination unit that determines a regeneration stop timing, and a regenerative braking stop unit that stops the regenerative braking system when the regeneration stop timing determination unit determines that the regeneration stop timing has been reached. | 2010-07-08 |
20100174431 | DRIVE CONTROL DEVICE FOR A VEHICLE - There is provided a drive control device for a vehicle capable of estimating an engine torque with high accuracy during traveling in a fixed gear ratio mode. The drive control device includes the engagement mechanism including the revolution component that is revolved by the torque of the internal combustion engine and the fixed component that engages with the revolution component, the torque applying unit which applies the torque to the revolution component and the first transmitting control unit which engages the engagement mechanism to make the engagement mechanism receive the reaction force of the torque of the internal combustion engine. The torque estimating control unit executes the control of the torque applied to the revolution component by the torque applying unit during executing the control by the first transmitting control unit thereby to detect the phase change between the revolution component and the fixed component in a direction of rotation, and estimates the torque of the internal combustion engine based on the phase change and the torque applied by the torque applying unit. Therefore, it becomes possible to estimate the torque of the internal combustion engine with high accuracy in such a state that the revolution component and the fixed component are engaging. | 2010-07-08 |
20100174432 | Wheelchair Control System - A method and apparatus for wheelchair control. The position and distance of a touch point on a touch pad is used to set speed and wheel differential control. The two major wheels of the wheelchair are controlled according to these set quantities. Exceeding either of two horizontal accelerations measured by an accelerometer limits the set speed. Wheelchair control is shut down upon exceeding a vertical acceleration limit. | 2010-07-08 |
20100174433 | PARALLEL HYBRID VEHICLE OPTIMAL STORAGE SYSTEM - The present invention is a method and apparatus by which power is controlled in a hybrid electric vehicle such that high levels of performance and efficiency are realized. The present invention includes a method and apparatus developed to optimize the use of energy in a hybrid vehicle application from the hybrid energy storage device. The method and apparatus of the present invention is particularly useful with energy storage devices there the energy state, such as the state of charge, is readily determined by an easily measured attribute. Ultracapacitors and hydraulic storage cylinders are examples of the types of energy storage devices to which the present invention may be applied. | 2010-07-08 |
20100174434 | ROBOT WITH AN AUTOMATIC CHARGING FUNCTION - A robot with an automatic charging function, comprising: a body, an arm mechanism rotatably connected to the body, a head mechanism and a driver rotatably connected to the arm mechanism; wherein a receiving space is formed in the body for receiving the arm mechanism; the head mechanism comprises two conduction terminals for receiving power from power outlets of a charging station; when power of the robot is lower than a preset level, the driver is configured to drive the arm mechanism to rotate out of the receiving space of the body, simultaneously, the driver is configured to drive the head mechanism to rotate relatively to the arm mechanism till the two conduction terminals of the head mechanism are electronically connected to the power outlets of the charge station, thereby receiving power from the charge station. | 2010-07-08 |
20100174435 | Path planning apparatus of robot and method thereof - Disclosed are a path planning apparatus of a robot, which generates a path plan to control movements of the robot, and a method thereof. An improved RRT algorithm is employed, when a tree is extended in a configuration space so as to satisfy a constraint, and thus steeply bent or roundabout portions of the tree are reduced. | 2010-07-08 |
20100174436 | TARGET ROUTE GENERATION SYSTEM - A target route generation system which generates a target route for a robot (R) to travel along autonomously is provided with a route candidate generation element ( | 2010-07-08 |