Patent application number | Description | Published |
20080205829 | Ultra-high density connector - Techniques for ultra-high density connection are disclosed. In one embodiment, an ultra-high density connector includes a bundle of substantially parallel elongate cylindrical elements, where each cylindrical element is substantially in contact with at least one adjacent cylindrical element. Ends of the elongate cylindrical elements are disposed differentially with respect to each other to define a three-dimensional interdigitating mating surface. At least one of the elongate cylindrical elements has an electrically conductive contact positioned to tangentially engage a corresponding electrical contact of a mating connector. | 08-28-2008 |
20080215185 | Unmanned ground robotic vehicle having an alternatively extendible and retractable sensing appendage - An unmanned robotic vehicle is capable of sensing an environment at a location remote from the immediate area of the vehicle frame. The unmanned robotic vehicle includes a retractable appendage with a sensing element. The sensing element can include a camera, chemical sensor, optical sensor, force sensor, or the like. | 09-04-2008 |
20080216593 | Device for promoting toe-off during gait - Disclosed is a gait toe-off promoting device or a device configured to promote toe-off during gait comprising: (a) a first sensor located proximate the ball of a foot of an individual and configured to sense the force acting on the ball of the foot during a gait cycle and to provide a signal corresponding to the force; (b) a second sensor located proximate a pressure receiving surface of a toe of the foot of the individual and configured to measure the force acting on the toe of the foot during the gait cycle and to provide a signal corresponding to the force; (c) a control center configured to process the signals, as received from the first and second sensors, to obtain respective first and second measured values, wherein the control center is also configured to compare the first and second measured values to at least one pre-determined value programmed and stored within the control center; and (d) a feedback mechanism operably connected to and controlled by the control center and configured to notify the individual of improper toe-off during the gait cycle, wherein the feedback mechanism is activated as directed by the control center upon an unacceptable comparison of the measured values with the pre-determined value(s), thus making the individual aware of the need to correct future gait cycles. | 09-11-2008 |
20080216644 | Antagonistic fluid control system for active and passive actuator operation - An antagonistic fluid control system, wherein the system may comprise multiple antagonistic pressure control valves operable with a single actuator, or multiple pressure control valves operable with respective antagonistic actuators. The pressure control valves are configured to provide functional and efficiency advantages, and operate together to provide several operating or valving states. A first valving state comprises an active valving state configured to actively control the movement of the load. A second valving state comprises an inactive actuation state, wherein either the return and pressure ports of one pressure control valve are closed, or only the return ports of one pressure control valve are opened, to allow the other pressure control valve to operate in an active valving state. A third valving state comprises a passive valving state, wherein the pressure control valves are operated in a slosh mode configured to allow the load to freely move or dangle. In this third passive valving state, or slosh mode, the return ports of the two pressure control valves are opened to allow fluid, and preferably local fluid, to shunt back and forth within the system. | 09-11-2008 |
20080216645 | Fluid control system having selective recruitable actuators - A fluid control or actuation system providing selective recruiting of actuators antagonistic to one another to provide variable output power, such as that used to drive a load. The actuators are intended to comprise different sizes, and to be operable with one or more pressure control valves capable of providing displacement of a non-recruited actuator without requiring active input to cause such displacement. Being able to selectively recruit different sized actuators to drive the load, and being able to displace non-recruited without active input, effectively incorporates a gearing function into the fluid control system. | 09-11-2008 |
20080216902 | First-stage pilot valve - A pilot valve configured to provide a control pressure within a dynamic fluid system, the pilot valve comprising: (a) a valve body having a supply port, a return port, and a control pressure port, the pressure control port in fluid communication with a subsequent valving component; (b) an axial bore formed in the valve body and in fluid communication with each of the supply, return, and control pressure ports; (c) a valve spool slidably supported within the axial bore of the valve body, the valve spool configured to control fluid flow through the supply, return, and control pressure ports, and to vary the rate of change of area of at least one of the supply and return pressure ports upon being displaced, thereby providing a variable resistance to fluid flowing therethrough and reducing the quiescent power of the pilot valve; and (d) means for displacing, in a selective manner, the valve spool within the axial bore about the supply, return, and control pressure ports to apportion fluid therethrough to provide a desired control pressure to the subsequent valving component. The pilot valve further comprises a feedback port formed in the valve body and in fluid communication with the control pressure port; and a feedback passage in fluid communication with the feedback port and a portion of the valve spool, the feedback passage configured to receive pressurized fluid therein to act against the valve spool to balance the forces acting on the valve spool from the motor. | 09-11-2008 |
20080217993 | Conformable track assembly for a robotic crawler - A suspension system for a lightweight robotic crawler is disclosed. The suspension system provides for mounting of a flexible endless track thereon. The suspension system includes a forward guide and a rearward guide around which the endless track can be looped. A deflector positioned between the forward guide and the rearward guide downwardly deflects a ground-engaging portion of the endless track to form a peaked area. The peaked area can support the lightweight robotic vehicle allowing alteration of a distribution of load over the ground-engaging portion of the endless track with respect to a supporting surface. | 09-11-2008 |
20080245424 | Micro fluid transfer system - A micro fluid transfer system for transferring fluid within a micro-environment, wherein the micro fluid transfer system comprises: (a) an elongate body having first and second ends and an outer surface; (b) a plurality of bores formed within the elongate body, the bores extending along at least a portion of a length of the elongate body for carrying fluid therein; and (c) at least one interconnecting slot intercepting at least two of the plurality of bores within the elongate body at a strategic, pre-determined location and orientation so as to fluidly connect the at least two bores and to define a plurality of potential fluid passageways through the elongate body. The micro fluid transfer system further comprises at least one access slot intercepting one of the plurality of bores within the elongate body at a strategic, pre-determined location and orientation so that the access slot and the bore are in fluid communication with one another, the access slot further defining additional potential fluid passageways within the elongate body. The micro fluid transfer system further comprises at least one rod disposed within each of the plurality of bores, the rod being selectively positioned to define a particular pre-determined fluid passageway and subsequent fluid flow path and to manipulate and control fluid flow through the fluid flow path. | 10-09-2008 |
20080251050 | Rapid-fire rapid-response power conversion system - A rapid-fire external compression engine having an intake device configured to introduce a pre-compressed fuel-oxidizer mixture from an external source into a combustion chamber having a low-inertia rapid response component. The rapid response component is configured to extract a high percentage of the energy derived from the combustion of the pre-compressed fuel-oxidizer mixture and convert it into mechanical work, which may then be transformed via a variety of methods into usable output power to operate a powered device. | 10-16-2008 |
20080262429 | Miniature pump device and method - A miniature pump device, with a fluid reservoir that can contain an intravenous drug, hydraulic fluid, or the like. The miniature pump has a motor disposed adjacent the fluid reservoir, and a piston disposed within the fluid reservoir. A power transfer linkage transfers power from the motor to the piston in the fluid reservoir, and a stationary flexible seal is coupled between the fluid reservoir and the power transfer linkage to seal a portion of the power transfer linkage within the fluid reservoir. | 10-23-2008 |
20080277614 | Quantum fluid transfer system - A miniature quantum fluid transfer system configured to regulate the flow rate of a fluid by allowing passage of very small, discrete increments of fluid through the valve including a valve body having at least one inlet to receive fluid and at least one outlet to release fluid. The quantum fluid transfer system includes a valve rod movably disposed in a first chamber in the valve body. The valve rod has a plurality of fluid passages spaced longitudinally along the valve rod, and the valve rod is movable to align each fluid passage with an inlet or outlet port in the first chamber to allow fluid to flow through selected inlet or outlet ports corresponding to selected fluid passages. The quantum fluid transfer system has a plug movably disposed in a second chamber in the valve body. The plug is movable between a first end and a second end of the second chamber, and moves toward the first or second end when a volume of fluid enters the second chamber from the first chamber at the other of the first or second end. The plug pushes a corresponding volume of fluid out of the second chamber at the end opposite the end the fluid entered. | 11-13-2008 |
20080281231 | Method for manufacturing a complex structure - A method for manufacturing a complex structure from a two-dimensional layout, the method comprising: (a) obtaining a support plate having a pre-determined, patterned recess formed in a surface thereof; (b) depositing a first series of individual flexible interconnects into the recess, the flexible interconnects being aligned parallel to one another in a common plane and supported by the support plate; (c) adhering, with adhering means, at least one rigid member to each of the flexible interconnects of the first series; (d) adhering, with adhering means, a second series of individual flexible interconnects to the rigid members to form a plurality of stations, wherein each of the second series of flexible interconnects is adhered to two rigid members of adjacent flexible interconnects of the first series, the flexible interconnects of the second series being formed perpendicular to the flexible interconnects of the first series; (e) curing the adhering means to form an assembled, layered structure; (f) removing the layered structure from the support plate; and (g) folding, systematically, the layered structure on itself and causing at least some of the stations to be supported about a central spine in a segmented manner. | 11-13-2008 |
20080281468 | VARIABLE PRIMITIVE MAPPING FOR A ROBOTIC CRAWLER - Varying modes of movement of a robotic crawler are provided by using a variable mapping from high-level (operator input) primitives into low-level primitives. The mapping is a function of environmental data sensed by the robotic crawler enabling the movement mode to be adapted to the environment. | 11-13-2008 |
20080304143 | Mini-scope for multi-directional imaging - A mini-scope for multi-directional imaging is disclosed. The mini-scope includes an elongated mini-scoped body. An emissions aperture is disposed on the distal end of the elongated mini-scope body, which can be configured to emit a beam of optical energy propagating through a flexible optical conductor. A selective mirror is also positioned at the distal end of the elongated mini-scope body and is configured to selectively pass or reflect the beam of optical energy based on the optical characteristics of the beam. A SSID is further disposed on the distal end of the elongated mini-scope body for imaging illumination reflected by an external object in response to the beam of optical energy. This illumination is directed to pass through or reflect from the selective mirror to the camera based on optical characteristics of the beam. | 12-11-2008 |
20080305278 | Glass coating of polymers - A method for modifying a plastic surface is disclosed. The method can include chemically reacting a polysilicone compound placed in contact with the plastic surface to form a silicon dioxide glass layer on the surface portion. The glass layer can be modified in a second process to create a desired surface property. | 12-11-2008 |
20090000674 | Pressure control valve having an asymmetric valving structure - The present invention describes, generally, a method and system for controlling the dynamics of an actuatable load functioning or operable within a servo or servo-type system, wherein the dynamics of the load are controlled by way of a unique asymmetric pressure control valve configured to provide intrinsic pressure regulation. The asymmetric pressure control valve, which may be referred to as a dynamic pressure regulator because of its capabilities, utilizes different sized free floating spools that are physically independent of one another and freely supported in interior cavities of respective corresponding different sized valving components that make up the valve body to regulate the pressures acting within the overall system between the control or pilot pressure and the load or load pressure. The dual spools of the pressure control valve, although physically independent of one another, function in cooperation with one another in an attempt to maintain a state of equilibrium in the system, namely to keep pressure acting on or within the actuator (the load pressure), or the feedback pressure corresponding to the load pressure, the same as the control or pilot pressure. Moreover, pressure regulation and control is intrinsic to the asymmetric pressure control valve because of the configuration and function of the dual spools and the feedback system acting on the spools, thus eliminating the need for electronically or mechanically user controlled systems. | 01-01-2009 |
20090025988 | Serpentine Robotic Crawler Having A Continuous Track - A serpentine robotic crawler includes an articulated body having at least two body segments serially connected and a continuous track operably supported along a perimeter of the articulated body. The serpentine robotic crawler is capable of a variety of movement modes and poses. | 01-29-2009 |
20090030562 | Modular Robotic Crawler - A modular robotic crawler can be formed by intercoupling a selected plurality of segment modules from a preexisting collection of differing compatible segment modules. The segment modules can have at least one intercoupleable interface. The selection can be based on a planned operational scenario of functions to be performed. | 01-29-2009 |
20090204195 | Multi-Element Probe Array - A multi-element probe array suitable for sensing or stimulating is disclosed. In one embodiment, the multi-element probe array includes a plurality of microfibers extending longitudinally and oriented substantially parallel to form a bundle. Probe elements are defined by a first subset of the microfibers displaced in a forward direction along the longitudinal axis relative to spacer elements defined by a second subset of the microfibers. Interface elements and communication elements are disposed on the probe elements. | 08-13-2009 |
20090210093 | Contact displacement actuator system - A robot displacement device for use with a robotic frame shaped to approximate and be coupleable to at least a portion of the human body and configured to mimic movement of the human body. The device employs a plurality of force sensors which are attached to the robotic frame which detect a baseline controlling interface force status relationship between the sensors and the extremities of the human operator. Based on the output force signal from the sensors and the force and direction of gravity relative to the robotic frame, the computation system calculates at least a rotational force required to maintain the controlling force status relationship. That system then generates and transmits an actuation signal to a drive system attached to the robotic frame which displaces a portion of the robotic frame in order to maintain the controlling force status relationship. | 08-20-2009 |
20090318759 | Transparent Endoscope Head Defining A Focal Length - A catheter configured for imaging objects substantially in focus is described herein. An imaging device is disposed on the distal end of the catheter. The imaging device has an effective focal plane that is located in front of the imaging device. The catheter also includes a transparent focal instrument that has an outer periphery that is positioned at the effective focal plane of the imaging device, to enable objects in contact with the outer periphery of the transparent focal instrument to be imaged substantially in focus. | 12-24-2009 |
20090326321 | Miniaturized Imaging Device Including Multiple GRIN Lenses Optically Coupled to Multiple SSIDs - A miniaturized imaging device and method of viewing small luminal cavities are described. The imaging device can be used as part of a catheter, and can include at least one solid state imaging device (SSID) including multiple imaging arrays respectively, and multiple graduated refractive index (GRIN) lenses optically coupled to the multiple imaging arrays. | 12-31-2009 |
20100022900 | Non-Invasive Method And Device For Measuring Cardiac Output - A system comprising a housing containing a signal generator coupled to an antenna and a dielectric material disposed about the antenna. The device is adapted to generate and direct a plurality of signals towards the heart of the person and measure a magnitude of a signal returned from the heart. The device further comprises a processor to compare differences between a magnitude of a signal propagated and the magnitude of the signal returned off the heart and determine a signal frequency having a maximum return loss value based on those differences. The processor also estimates a change in the amplitude of motion of a portion of a wall of the heart based on the differences between the magnitude of the signal propagated by the device and the magnitude of the signal returned off of the portion of the heart. | 01-28-2010 |
20100042263 | Intelligent Sprinkler Irrigation System - The present invention features an intelligent sprinkler irrigation system for delivering fluid to an arbitrarily-shaped area in a precise manner. In general, the system comprises (a) a fluid source comprising a pressurized fluid; (b) at least one programmable sprinkler head fluidly connected to the fluid source; and (c) a computer system configured to control the sprinkler head to precisely deliver fluid according to a pre-determined sprinkler function. The computer system comprises a teach mode, wherein a plurality of drive parameters are learned and recorded. These drive parameters function to dictate the specific vector positioning of the sprinkler head during execution of the sprinkler component. The teach mode is further configured to learn and record a plurality of flow parameters, which function to control the fluid delivery component of the sprinkler head (e.g., the valve or nozzle), and more particularly, the manner in which the fluid is delivered or emitted from this component. | 02-18-2010 |
20100112865 | Ultra-High Density Connector - Techniques for ultra-high density connection are disclosed. In one embodiment, an ultra-high density connector includes a bundle of substantially parallel elongate cylindrical elements, where each cylindrical element is substantially in contact with at least one adjacent cylindrical element. Ends of the elongate cylindrical elements are disposed differentially with respect to each other to define a three-dimensional interdigitating mating surface. At least one of the elongate cylindrical elements has an electrically conductive contact positioned to tangentially engage a corresponding electrical contact of a mating connector. | 05-06-2010 |
20100116869 | Electrical Microfilament to Circuit Interface - Devices and methods for electrical interconnection for microelectronic circuits are disclosed. One method of electrical interconnection includes forming a bundle of microfilaments, wherein at least two of the microfilaments include electrically conductive portions extending along their lengths. The method can also include bonding the microfilaments to corresponding bond pads of a microelectronic circuit substrate to form electrical connections between the electrically conductive portions and the corresponding bond pads. A microelectronic circuit can include a bundle of microfilaments bonded to corresponding bond pads to make electrical connection between corresponding bonds pads and electrically-conductive portions of the microfilaments. | 05-13-2010 |
20100126403 | Hull Robot - A hull cleaning robot includes at least one cleaning apparatus for cleaning the hull of a vessel, at least one drive track holding the robot on the hull as the robot maneuvers about the hull, and at least one turbine actuatable by water flowing past the hull for operating the at least one drive track and, optionally, the cleaning apparatus. | 05-27-2010 |
20100135831 | Miniature Pump Device with an Anti-Free Flow Valve - A miniature unidirectional valve configured to restrict the free flow of fluid through the valve includes a valve body having an inlet and an outlet. A flexible membrane is movably disposed over the inlet and outlet, and movable between an open position and a closed position. The flexible membrane is movable by a pressure from the inlet to move the membrane to the open position. A control chamber is disposed in the valve body adjacent the fluid flow path, and configured to apply a pressure against the membrane to move the membrane to the closed position to restrict fluid flow through the valve. A preload structure is associated with the flexible membrane, and biases the flexible membrane toward the closed position. | 06-03-2010 |
20100171821 | Method And Device For Wavelength Shifted Imaging - A micro-camera catheter device is disclosed comprising at least one light source disposed on a distal end of a catheter. The light source is capable of propagating a predetermined wavelength of light with a wavelength between approximately 1000 nanometers and approximately 2000 nanometers onto a target. The device further comprises a lens system disposed on the distal end of the catheter, said lens system configured to receive light reflected from the target. The device further comprises a non-linear optical media disposed behind the lens system configured to modify the light reflected from the target. The device also comprises a silicon-based solid state imaging device disposed behind the non-linear optical media configured to receive light from the non-linear optical media. | 07-08-2010 |
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. | 07-08-2010 |
20100188492 | Method And Device For Incremental Wavelength Variation To Analyze Tissue - A method of imaging a target using a miniaturized imaging device is disclosed comprising providing a miniaturized imaging device having a stationary lens system and an imaging array, wherein the distance from a distal end of the stationary lens system to the imaging array is fixed. The miniaturized imaging device is advanced near the desired target and a distance from a distal end of the stationary lens system to the desired target is determined. A desired wavelength of light is calculated based on the determined distance from the distal end of the stationary lens system to the desired target and the desired wavelength of light is propagated onto the target. | 07-29-2010 |
20100201185 | Conformable Track Assembly For A Robotic Crawler - A suspension system for a lightweight robotic crawler is disclosed. The suspension system provides for mounting of a flexible endless track thereon. The suspension system includes a forward guide and a rearward guide around which the endless track can be looped. A deflector positioned between the forward guide and the rearward guide downwardly deflects a ground-engaging portion of the endless track to form a peaked area. The peaked area can support the lightweight robotic vehicle allowing alteration of a distribution of load over the ground-engaging portion of the endless track with respect to a supporting surface. | 08-12-2010 |
20100201187 | Versatile Endless Track For Lightweight Mobile Robots - A versatile endless track system for a lightweight robotic vehicle is disclosed. The versatile endless track system includes a flexible track configured for mounting about a plurality of track supports of the lightweight robotic vehicle. A plurality of traction pads including at least two different types of traction pads are inserted into and supported by a plurality of receptacles contained within the flexible track. The different types of traction pads provide different ground-interfacing profiles designed to provide traction with respect to ground surfaces having different traction properties. Optionally, traction pads can be removable, allowing the versatile endless track to be reconfigured. A method of configuring a versatile endless track is also disclosed. | 08-12-2010 |
20100258365 | Serpentine Robotic Crawler - A serpentine robotic crawler capable of multiple movement moves is disclosed. The serpentine robotic crawler includes a plurality of frame units, coupled together by at least one actuated linkage. Each frame unit includes a continuous track, enabling forward movement of the serpentine robotic crawler. The at least one actuated linkage has at least 7 degrees of movement freedom, enabling the serpentine robotic crawler to adopt a variety of poses. | 10-14-2010 |
20100314139 | Target-Specific Fire Fighting Device For Launching A Liquid Charge At A Fire - The present invention relates to a single-target-specific fire fighting device for launching a liquid charge towards a localized target portion of a fire. The firefighting device is capable of highly precise target engagement at a single, localized area. In this manner, the fire fighting device can launch a single liquid charge effectively to a target location within a fire, such as the seat of a fire, in order to effectively extinguish the fire. The firefighting device includes at least a liquid charge having a flight integrity component, a barrel, a sighting structure coupled to the barrel, and a launching system for launching the liquid charge down the barrel at a target location. | 12-16-2010 |
20100317244 | Amphibious Robotic Crawler - An amphibious robotic crawler for traversing a body of water having two frame units coupled end-to-end or in tandem by an actuated linkage arm. Each frame unit includes a housing with a drivable continuous track rotatably supported thereon. The frame units are operable with a power supply, a drive mechanism and a control module. Each frame unit further includes a buoyancy control element for suspending the frame unit in the water, and for controlling the depth of the robotic crawler within the water. The control module coordinates the rotation of the continuous tracks, the position of the linkage arm and the buoyancy of the buoyancy control elements to control movement, direction and pose of the robotic crawler through the body of water. | 12-16-2010 |
20100318242 | Method And System For Deploying A Surveillance Network - A method and system for gathering information from and setting up a surveillance network within an earth-surface environment that includes inserting one or more mobile robotic devices having a sensing subsystem, a communications subsystem, and a navigation subsystem into an earth-surface environment. The mobile robotic device may be configured into a traveling pose selected from a plurality of available traveling poses, and directed using the navigation subsystem to a sensing location within the earth-surface environment. The environment may be monitored and sensed information collected may be stored or communicated to a remote location. The mobile robotic device may be configured to operate with a vehicle carrier to facilitate insertion and deployment of the robotic vehicle into the earth-surface environment. | 12-16-2010 |
20100326192 | DIGITAL BALLISTIC IMPACT DETECTION SYSTEM - Methods and devices for a miniature, ultra-low power impact recorder for detecting, quantifying and recording the energy of an explosive blast or ballistic projectile impact. In one embodiment, the impact recorder can included a sensor comprised of an array of electromechanical resonators that is sensitive to the vibrations produced in selected, discrete frequency ranges that approximate the spectral signature characteristics of the shockwave resulting from the ballistic impact event, even after traveling through impacted material or body tissues. | 12-30-2010 |
20110137117 | Miniaturized Imaging Device Including GRIN Lens Optically Coupled to SSID - A miniaturized imaging device and method of viewing small luminal cavities are described. The imaging device can be used as part of a catheter, and can include a solid state imaging device (SSID) including an imaging array, and a graduated refractive index (GRIN) lens optically coupled to the imaging array of the SSID. | 06-09-2011 |
20110162451 | DIGITAL WOUND DETECTION SYSTEM - Methods and devices for a miniature, ultra-low power impact recorder for detecting, quantifying and recording the energy of an explosive blast or ballistic projectile impact. In one embodiment, the impact recorder can included a sensor comprised of an array of electromechanical resonators that is sensitive to the vibrations produced in selected, discrete frequency ranges that approximate the spectral signature characteristics of the shockwave resulting from the ballistic impact event, even after traveling through impacted material or body tissues. | 07-07-2011 |
20110213599 | Method of Sizing Actuators for a Biomimetic Mechanical Joint - A method of configuring a biomimetic mechanical joint for the efficient movement of a support member about a pivot device. The method includes providing a first fractional actuator and a second fractional actuator being operable with the support member and the pivot device, sizing the first fractional actuator for rated operation at a first boundary condition, and sizing the second fractional actuator so that the first and second fractional actuators, when recruited in combination, are rated for operation at a second boundary condition. | 09-01-2011 |
20110214524 | Biomimetic Mechanical Joint - A biomimetic mechanical joint for generating a variable torque between support members of a biomimetic robotic device, including a base support member, a rotary support member rotatably coupled to the base support member, and a variable-radius pulley operably coupled between the base support member and rotary support member. The variable-radius pulley comprises a sheave body having a variable radius and one or more tendon grooves formed in the circumferential outer surface. The mechanical joint further includes one or more flexible tendons and antagonistic actuator pairs, with each actuator pair being coupled to one or more tendons and configured to operate the tendon around the variable-radius pulley in either direction to create a variable torque between the base and rotary support members. | 09-08-2011 |
20110242302 | Light Diffusion Apparatus - A light diffusing composition that optimizes image clarity from a SSID comprising a translucent matrix further comprising a plurality of hollow micro-particles. The plurality of hollow micro-particles are dispersed throughout the translucent matrix and a fluid is disposed within the hollow micro-particle. A refractive index of the fluid within the hollow micro-particle is different than a refractive index of the translucent matrix. | 10-06-2011 |
20110245605 | Needle Delivered Imaging Device - A hollow elongated cylinder is disclosed having a distal end and a proximal end, the proximal end configured to be removably connectable to a distal end of a syringe. An umbilical is removably inserted within said cylinder and configured for detachable connection to a data processor and a display device having a solid state imaging device disposed on a distal end of the umbilical. A lens system is disposed on a distal end of the solid state imaging device. The umbilical is inserted within the cylinder such that the distal end of the lens system is disposed at approximately the distal end of the cylinder. | 10-06-2011 |
20110245765 | Method And Apparatus For Manipulating Movement of a Micro-Catheter - A medical device and method for manipulating movement of a micro-catheter, the device comprising an elongated tubular member having at least one lumen therein, wherein the lumen is proximally coupled to a pressurized fluid control system configured to regulate fluid flow through the elongated tubular member. An aperture is disposed near a distal end of the elongated tubular member, the aperture being in fluid communication with the at least one lumen. In one aspect, the aperture is oriented at an angle which is non parallel to the longitudinal axis of the elongated tubular member. A nozzle is coupled to the aperture, wherein the nozzle is configured to regulate pressurized flow out of the catheter to manipulate movement of the distal end of the elongated tubular member. | 10-06-2011 |
20110251456 | Method and Apparatus For Viewing A Body Cavity - A method and apparatus to generate a planar representation of a longitudinally extending 360 degree continuous view within a body cavity of a patient is disclosed comprising advancing a portion of an imaging device into the body cavity of the patient, the imaging device having an image capture mechanism disposed on a distal end thereof configured to capture at least a 360 degree view of the inside of the body cavity. Further comprising withdrawing the imaging device at a controlled rate from the patient while simultaneously coordinating and generating 360 degree view image data from the imaging device and transmitting the image data from the imaging device to an image processor. The method further comprising processing the image data to produce a planar longitudinally continuous 360 degree view of the body cavity. | 10-13-2011 |
20110268914 | Two-Dimensional Layout For Use In A Complex Structure - A method for manufacturing a complex structure from a two-dimensional layout, the method comprising: (a) obtaining a support plate having a pre-determined, patterned recess formed in a surface thereof; (b) depositing a first series of individual flexible interconnects into the recess, the flexible interconnects being aligned parallel to one another in a common plane and supported by the support plate; (c) adhering, with adhering means, at least one rigid member to each of the flexible interconnects of the first series; (d) adhering, with adhering means, a second series of individual flexible interconnects to the rigid members to form a plurality of stations, wherein each of the second series of flexible interconnects is adhered to two rigid members of adjacent flexible interconnects of the first series, the flexible interconnects of the second series being formed perpendicular to the flexible interconnects of the first series; (e) curing the adhering means to form an assembled, layered structure; (f) removing the layered structure from the support plate; and (g) folding, systematically, the layered structure on itself and causing at least some of the stations to be supported about a central spine in a segmented manner. | 11-03-2011 |
20110270277 | SUTURE DEVICE AND METHOD FOR CLOSING A PLANAR OPENING - A micro-camera guided suturing device is disclosed comprising an elongate suture body having at least one lumen disposed therein and an imaging structure disposed within the at least one lumen of the suture. The imaging structure comprises a SSID optically coupled to a lens system. In one aspect, the suturing device further comprises a conductive element detachably coupled to the suture. In yet another aspect, the suture body comprises a shape memory material. | 11-03-2011 |
20110286089 | MINI-SCOPE FOR MULTI-DIRECTIONAL IMAGING - A mini-scope for multi-directional imaging is disclosed. The mini-scope includes an elongated mini-scoped body. An emissions aperture is disposed on the distal end of the elongated mini-scope body, which can be configured to emit a beam of optical energy propagating through a flexible optical conductor. A selective mirror is also positioned at the distal end of the elongated mini-scope body and is configured to selectively pass or reflect the beam of optical energy based on the optical characteristics of the beam. A solid state imaging device is further disposed on the distal end of the elongated mini-scope body for imaging illumination reflected by an external object in response to the beam of optical energy. This illumination is directed to pass through or reflect from the selective mirror to the camera based on optical characteristics of the beam. | 11-24-2011 |
20110295164 | Control Logic for Biomimetic Joint Actuators - A method of operating a biomimetic mechanical joint having a plurality of fractional actuators configured for rotating a support member about a pivot device. The fractional actuators can be selectively recruited during operation, either individually or together, to efficiently rotate the support member about the mechanical joint throughout a range of movements and under a variety of load conditions. Each fractional actuator can be continuously throttled to reduce the speed or torque at which the actuator operates. The capability of selectively recruiting and throttling each fractional actuator results in an actuator system having two degrees of freedom, in which a single operating state of the mechanical joint may be reached with one or more of actuator arrangements and throttling settings. The method of the present invention allows for selection from the available actuator arrangements and throttle settings according to predetermined operating modes such as high-efficiency, high-acceleration or general-purpose, etc. | 12-01-2011 |
20110310577 | ELECTRICAL MICROFILAMENT TO CIRCUIT INTERFACE - Devices and methods for electrical interconnection for microelectronic circuits are disclosed. One method of electrical interconnection includes forming a bundle of microfilaments, wherein at least two of the microfilaments include electrically conductive portions extending along their lengths. The method can also include bonding the microfilaments to corresponding bond pads of a microelectronic circuit substrate to form electrical connections between the electrically conductive portions and the corresponding bond pads. A microelectronic circuit can include a bundle of microfilaments bonded to corresponding bond pads to make electrical connection between corresponding bonds pads and electrically-conductive portions of the microfilaments. | 12-22-2011 |
20120137667 | Regenerative Hydraulic Pump - A regenerative hydraulic pump that allows for efficient operation of a hydraulic system under high pressure/low flow conditions that comprises a crankshaft providing a rotating inertial mass, and a regenerative hydraulic pump cylinder that comprises a pump cylinder housing, a pump piston mechanically connected to the crankshaft; and a compliant pressure chamber that stores a portion of the energy extracted by the pump piston during a pumping stroke for release back to the pump piston and to the crankshaft during a regenerative back stroke. | 06-07-2012 |
20120138701 | Electrospray Dispensing System - An electrospray dispensing system for delivering a controllable quantity of charged micro-droplets of a conductive fluid, and which includes an elongate fluid supply cylinder having a first end, a second end, a sidewall (e.g., forming a circular or other polygonal cross-section) between the first and second ends, and an interior hollow that is in fluid communication with a source of conductive fluid. The dispensing system also includes an array of selectively-activated capillary tubes having proximal ends that are in fluid communication with the interior hollow and distal ends extending radially outward through the sidewall, and which are configured so that any conductive fluid flowing outwardly through one or more activated capillary tubes is electrically-charged. The dispensing system further includes a grounding electrode that is in electrical communication with a source of ground and located at a predetermined distance from the distal ends of the capillary tubes, so that an electric potential between the charged conductive fluid and the grounding electrode will cause each of the activated capillary tubes to form a cone jet which projects a stream of charged micro-droplets towards the grounding electrode. | 06-07-2012 |
20120138714 | Electrospray Delivery Device - An electro-spray delivery device for delivering a stream of charged micro-droplets of a conductive fluid, and which a capillary tube having a proximal end in fluid communication with a source of conductive fluid and a distal end opposite the proximal end. The device also includes a solid guide wire coaxially disposed at least partially within the capillary tube to form an annular passage therein, and which has a distal tip projecting beyond the distal end of the capillary tube. At least one of the capillary tube and guide wire is conductive and in electrical communication with a high-voltage source to electrically charge the conductive fluid flowing through the annular passage and wetting the distal tip of the guide wire. The electrospray delivery device further includes a grounding electrode that is located a predetermined distance from the distal tip of the guide wire and which is in electrical communication with a source of ground. A voltage differential between the charged fluid and the grounding electrode draws the charged fluid away from the distal end of the capillary tube to form a cone jet about the end face of the distal tip discharging a stream of charged micro-droplets. | 06-07-2012 |
20120139466 | Micro Motor - A thinly configured and brushless miniature DC micro motor that includes at least two substantially-flat motor cells that are aligned axially. Each motor cell comprises a stator coil having an elongate opening and passage for a rotor shaft, and a cross-polarized rotor magnet carried on the rotor shaft and received within the elongate opening. The micro motor also includes a frame substrate that fixably supports the stator coils of the motor cells while providing a bearing means for rotatably supporting the rotor shaft, so that selectively energizing one of the motor cells creates an electric current in the stator coil interacting with a magnetic field of the received rotor magnet to generate a torque between the rotor shaft and the frame substrate. | 06-07-2012 |
20120216697 | Liquid Missile Projectile For Being Launched From A Launching Device - A liquid missile for being projected from a launching device which includes a liquid charge combined with a non-rigid flight integrity component. The flight integrity component allows the liquid charge to be launched at increased speeds and distances by inhibiting substantial break-up of the liquid charge during flight. | 08-30-2012 |
20120237319 | Robotic Lift Device with Human Interface Operation - An operator controllable robotic device is disclosed. The robotic device comprises a support member, an upper robotic arm, a lower robotic arm, and a control arm. The upper robotic arm is coupled to the support member and has rotational movement in at least one degree of freedom relative to the support member. The lower robotic arm is coupled to the upper robotic arm and has rotational movement in at least one degree of freedom relative to the upper robotic arm. The control arm allows an operator to control the robotic device. The control arm is coupled to the upper robotic arm and has rotational movement in at least one degree of freedom relative to the upper robotic arm. The control arm allows a movement of the operator to control a movement of at least one of the upper robotic arm and the lower robotic arm. | 09-20-2012 |
20120277901 | Platform Perturbation Compensation - A method for compensating for a perturbation external to a platform having a plurality of mechanical arms in accordance with an embodiment of the technology includes detecting a normal positional and/or orientational measurement of the platform using a sensor. A perturbed positional and/or orientational measurement of the platform can also be detected using the sensor. The normal positional and/or orientational measurement and the perturbed positional and/or orientational measurement can be compared to determine a positional and/or orientational difference. A position and/or orientation of a mechanical arm can be adjusted to compensate for the perturbation based on the positional and/or orientational difference. | 11-01-2012 |
20120277911 | Variable Strength Magnetic End Effector For Lift Systems - A device and method for adjusting the magnetic strength of a magnetic end effector for lift systems is described. The magnetic end effector is capable of lifting discriminate payloads by selectively varying the strength of the magnetic forces output by the magnetic end effector. An actuator can be operatively coupled to the variable strength magnet end effector, wherein the actuator is selectively actuatable to control the adjustment of the variable strength magnet. The actuator may also be configured to maintain the variable strength magnet at a desired magnetic force output strength once achieved for any given amount of time. | 11-01-2012 |
20120277915 | Multi-Degree of Freedom Torso Support For a Robotic Agile Lift System - A controllable robotic arm system comprises a base unit and a moveable torso coupled to the base unit. The moveable torso is capable of moving in at least one degree of freedom independently of movement of the base unit. At least one robotic slave arm is moveably coupled to the torso. A master control system is operable to control the robotic slave arm and the moveable torso. The master control system includes an input interface by which a user can cause control signals to be communicated to the robotic slave arm and the moveable torso. | 11-01-2012 |
20120328395 | Teleoperated Robotic System - A teleoperated robotic system that includes master control arms, slave arms, and a mobile platform. In use, a user manipulates the master control arms to control movement of the slave arms. The teleoperated robotic system can include two master control arms and two slave arms. The master control arms and the slave arms can be mounted on the platform. The platform can provide support for the master control arms and for a teleoperator, or user, of the robotic system. Thus, a mobile platform can allow the robotic system to be moved from place to place to locate the slave arms in a position for use. Additionally, the user can be positioned on the platform, such that the user can see and hear, directly, the slave arms and the workspace in which the slave arms operate. | 12-27-2012 |
20130011220 | System and Method For Controlling A Teleoperated Robotic Agile Lift System - A method for controlling a tele-operated robot agile lift system is disclosed. The method comprises manipulating a human-machine interface of a master robot located on a mobile platform. The human machine interface is kinematically equivalent to a user's arm with a plurality of support members. A position value and a torque value is measured for each support member. The position value and torque value are communicated to support members of a kinematically equivalent slave arm to position the support members to correspond with a position of the human-machine interface. | 01-10-2013 |
20130013108 | Robotic Agile Lift System With Extremity Control - A mobile robotic lift assistance system that can accommodate and provide for operator manipulation and control of a robotic arm and associated end effector locally from and via the robotic arm itself, and within a zone of operation. The mobile robotic lift assistance system can include one or more robotic arms having an associated extremity control system operable therefrom, wherein the operator enters the zone of operation and engages a control interface device to manipulate and control the robotic arm, any end effector associated therewith, and optionally the mobile platform unit. The control interface system facilitates extremity control by the operator of the mobile robotic lift assistance system. | 01-10-2013 |
20130042921 | Quantum Fluid Transfer System - A miniature quantum fluid transfer system configured to regulate the flow rate of a fluid by allowing passage of small, discrete increments of fluid through the valve including a valve body having at least one inlet to receive fluid and at least one outlet to release fluid, and a valve rod movably disposed in a first chamber in the valve body. The valve rod has a plurality of fluid passages spaced longitudinally along the valve rod, and the valve rod is movable to align each fluid passage with an inlet or outlet port in the first chamber to allow fluid to flow through selected inlet or outlet ports corresponding to selected fluid passages. The quantum fluid transfer system has a plug movably disposed in a second chamber to push a corresponding volume of fluid out of the second chamber at the end opposite the end the fluid entered. | 02-21-2013 |
20140251155 | VENDING MACHINE FOR POPPING KERNELS - The present invention relates to a popcorn vending machine, comprising a kernel holding chamber configured to store and dispense kernels, a heating chamber comprising an inlet configured to receive kernels from the kernel holding chamber, a microwave emitter configured to produce microwave energy within the heating chamber and heat the kernels, a single-mode resonant microwave applicator configured to generate a stable focused high intensity microwave region within the heating chamber, at least one air blower disposed in communication with the heating chamber, wherein the air blower is configured to blow air into the heating chamber, thereby moving kernels within the heating chamber and selectively removing popped flakes from the high intensity microwave region when popped, and a heating chamber outlet connected to the heating chamber for receiving popped flakes from the heating chamber and dispensing the popped flakes into a container. | 09-11-2014 |
20140251156 | APPARATUS AND SYSTEM FOR POPPING KERNELS - The present invention relates to improved devices and methods for popping popcorn, comprising moving popcorn kernels within a heating chamber with airflow and subjecting the popcorn kernels to focused microwave energy sufficient to cause the popcorn kernels to pop. In some embodiments, the devices and methods utilize a single-mode resonant microwave applicator to generate a standing microwave energy field comprising an array of one or more anti-node high intensity microwave regions and subjecting popcorn kernels to the microwave energy in the one or more high intensity microwave regions. | 09-11-2014 |
20140251157 | SINGLE-MODE MICROWAVE POPPING DEVICE - The present invention relates to an apparatus for popping kernels, comprising a heating chamber for containing kernels, a microwave emitter configured to produce microwave energy within the heating chamber and heat the kernels, a single-mode resonant microwave applicator configured to generate a standing microwave energy field comprising an array of one or more high intensity microwave regions, and a device configured to move kernels within the high intensity microwave regions. | 09-11-2014 |
20140251984 | METHODS FOR POPPING KERNELS WITH FOCUSED MICROWAVES - A method of popping kernels, comprising moving kernels within a heating chamber with airflow, and subjecting the kernels to focused microwave energy sufficient to cause the kernels to pop, resulting in popped flakes. | 09-11-2014 |
20140251985 | METHODS FOR POPPING KERNELS WITH SINGLE-MODE MICROWAVE DEVICE - The present invention relates to a method for popping kernels, comprising generating a standing microwave energy field in a single-mode resonant microwave applicator, wherein the standing microwave energy field comprises an array of one or more high intensity microwave regions; and subjecting kernels to the microwave energy in the one or more high intensity microwave regions, sufficient to cause the kernels to pop and produce popped flakes. | 09-11-2014 |
20140251986 | SINGLE-MODE MICROWAVE POPPING DEVICE - The present invention relates to an apparatus for popping kernels, comprising a heating chamber configured to contain kernels, a microwave emitter configured to produce microwave energy within the heating chamber and heat the kernels, a single-mode resonant microwave applicator configured to generate a stable focused high intensity microwave region within the heating chamber, and an air blower configured to create airflow within the heating chamber sufficient to move the kernels within the heating chamber. | 09-11-2014 |
20140255568 | METHODS FOR POPPING KERNELS WITH SINGLE-MODE MICROWAVE DEVICE - The present invention relates to a method for popping kernels, comprising generating a standing microwave energy field in a single-mode resonant microwave applicator, wherein the standing microwave energy field comprises an array of one or more high intensity microwave region, providing a heating chamber encompassing the one or more hot zones, delivering kernels to the heating chamber and moving the kernels through the high intensity microwave region within the heating chamber, subjecting kernels to the microwave energy in the one or more high intensity microwave regions, sufficient to cause the kernels to pop and produce popped flakes, and selectively discharging popped flakes from the heating chamber by upward airflow. | 09-11-2014 |
20140255569 | METHODS FOR POPPING KERNELS TO ACHIEVE IMPROVED POPPING YIELD - The present invention relates to a method of popping kernels, comprising moving kernels within a heating chamber with airflow, and subjecting the kernels to focused microwave energy sufficient to cause the kernels to pop, resulting in popped flakes, wherein the method produces popped flakes with an average popping yield greater than 94%. The present invention also relates to a method for popping kernels, comprising generating in a single-mode resonant microwave applicator a standing microwave energy field comprising an array of one or more anti-node high intensity microwave regions, subjecting kernels to the microwave energy in the one or more high intensity microwave regions, sufficient for the kernels to achieve a uniform distribution of microwave energy heat to cause the kernels to pop, wherein the method produces popped flakes with an average popping yield greater than 94%. | 09-11-2014 |
20140371529 | Transparent Endoscope Head Defining a Focal Length - A catheter configured for imaging objects substantially in focus is described herein. An imaging device is disposed on the distal end of the catheter. The imaging device has an effective focal plane that is located in front of the imaging device. The catheter also includes a transparent focal instrument that has an outer periphery that is positioned at the effective focal plane of the imaging device, to enable objects in contact with the outer periphery of the transparent focal instrument to be imaged substantially in focus. | 12-18-2014 |