Patent application number | Description | Published |
20090257336 | Device for marking optical discs in a non-destructive, tamper-proof manner for licensing and other purposes - A marking device for marking optical discs in a non-destructive, tamper-proof manner for licensing and other purposes such as part of a digital content library service includes top and bottom structures coupled together by a hinge. The bottom structure is adapted with a mounting post in a recessed area defined by opposing curved ledges to hold an optical disc for marking. The top structure is adapted with a removable tool having an embossed symbol for impressing a mark on the held optical disc by applying pressure to the top structure when the device is in a closed position. The top structure is also adapted with perforations for alternatively or additionally injecting a permanent ink onto the optical disc so that a mark defined by the pattern of perforations may be placed on the optical disc. | 10-15-2009 |
20090259684 | Digital content library service - A digital content library service makes available copies of digital content in a customer's tangible media library to be transferable to a hard disk or other random access memory of a compatible media player for a fee. To ensure that only one copy is transferable per tangible medium, the medium is permanently marked as part of the data entry process for the service. Optionally, the service, by encapsulating the customer's usage entitlements, also enables its users, for an additional fee, to stream their libraries to certain internet enabled media players so that they may also enjoy access to their digital content in a variety of new environments. | 10-15-2009 |
20120014663 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR ELECTRONIC SELL-THROUGH OF INTERACTIVE MULTIMEDIA CONTENT AUTHORED FOR DISTRIBUTION VIA PHYSICAL MEDIA - Systems and methods for electronic sell-through (EST) of multimedia content authored for distribution via physical media in accordance with embodiments of the invention are disclosed. One embodiment of the invention includes building an object model of interactive multimedia content authored for distribution via a physical medium using a content authoring system, automatically authoring a user interface based upon the object model using the content authoring system, packing the multimedia content into at least one container file, and electronically distributing at least a portion of the authored user interface and the at least one container file via a network connection. | 01-19-2012 |
20120014674 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR CONVERTING INTERACTIVE MULTIMEDIA CONTENT AUTHORED FOR DISTRIBUTION VIA A PHYSICAL MEDIUM FOR ELECTRONIC DISTRIBUTION - Systems and methods for converting interactive multimedia content authored for distribution via a physical medium for electronic distribution are disclosed. One embodiment of the invention includes building an object model of interactive multimedia content authored for distribution via a physical medium using a content authoring system, automatically authoring a user interface based upon the object model using the content authoring system, and packing the transcoded multimedia content into at least one container file. | 01-19-2012 |
20150213835 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR CONVERTING INTERACTIVE MULTIMEDIA CONTENT AUTHORED FOR DISTRIBUTION VIA A PHYSICAL MEDIUM FOR ELECTRONIC DISTRIBUTION - Systems and methods for converting interactive multimedia content authored for distribution via a physical medium for electronic distribution are disclosed. One embodiment of the invention includes building an object model of interactive multimedia content authored for distribution via a physical medium using a content authoring system, automatically authoring a user interface based upon the object model using the content authoring system, and packing the transcoded multimedia content into at least one container. | 07-30-2015 |
Patent application number | Description | Published |
20100075336 | SYSTEM FOR PERFORMING MULTI-FORMATTED ASSAYS - An automated analyzer for performing multiple diagnostic assays simultaneously includes multiple stations in which discrete aspects of the assay are performed on fluid samples contained in sample vessels. The analyzer includes stations for automatically preparing a sample, incubating the sample, preforming an analyte isolation procedure, ascertaining the presence of a target analyte, and analyzing the amount of a target analyte. An automated receptacle transporting system moves the sample vessels from one station to the next. A method for performing an automated diagnostic assay includes an automated process for isolating and amplifying a target analyte, and, in one embodiment, a method for real-time monitoring of the amplification process. | 03-25-2010 |
20100240063 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR DETECTING MULTIPLE OPTICAL SIGNALS - To minimize cross talk in systems and methods for detecting two or more different optical signals emitted from each of a plurality of reaction receptacles, an excitation signal associated with each of the optical signals has a known excitation frequency, and any detected signal having a frequency that is inconsistent with the excitation frequency is discarded. The receptacles are moved relative to optical sensors configured to detect each unique optical signal from an associated receptacle, and to further minimize cross talk, the optical sensors are arranged so that only one reaction receptacle at a time is in a signal detecting position with respect to one of its associated optical sensors, and the optical sensors are grouped by the optical signal they are configured to detect so that a first optical signal is detected from each of the reaction receptacles before a second optical signal is detected from the reaction receptacles. | 09-23-2010 |
20100288395 | Method and Apparatus for Effecting Automated Movement of a Magnet in an Instrument for Performing a Magnetic Separation Procedure - Methods, systems, and apparatus are provided for automated isolation of selected analytes, to which magnetically-responsive solid supports are bound, from other components of a sample. An apparatus for performing an automated magnetic separation procedure includes a mechanism for effecting linear movement of a magnet between operative and non-operative positions with respect to a receptacle device. A receptacle holding station within which a receptacle device may be temporarily stored prior to moving the receptacle to the apparatus for performing magnetic separation includes magnets for applying a magnetic field to the receptacle device held therein, thereby drawing at least a proton of the magnetically-responsive solid supports out of suspension before the receptacle device is moved to the magnetic separation station. An automated receptacle transport mechanism moves the receptacle devices between the apparatus for performing magnetic separation and the receptacle holding station. | 11-18-2010 |
20110053169 | METHOD FOR CONTINUOUS MODE PROCESSING OF THE CONTENTS OF MULTIPLE REACTION RECEPTACLES IN A REAL-TIME AMPLIFICATION ASSAY - An automated analyzer for performing multiple diagnostic assays simultaneously includes multiple stations in which discrete aspects of the assay are performed on fluid samples contained in sample vessels. The analyzer includes stations for automatically preparing a sample, incubating the sample, preforming an analyte isolation procedure, ascertaining the presence of a target analyte, and analyzing the amount of a target analyte. An automated receptacle transporting system moves the sample vessels from one station to the next. A method for performing an automated diagnostic assay includes an automated process for isolating and amplifying a target analyte, and, in one embodiment, a method for real-time monitoring of the amplification process. | 03-03-2011 |
20110147610 | SYSTEM FOR CONTINUOUS MODE PROCESSING OF THE CONTENTS OF MULTIPLE REACTION RECEPTACLES IN A REAL-TIME AMPLIFICATION ASSAY - An automated analyzer for performing multiple diagnostic assays simultaneously includes multiple stations in which discrete aspects of the assay are performed on fluid samples contained in sample vessels. The analyzer includes stations for automatically preparing a sample, incubating the sample, preforming an analyte isolation procedure, ascertaining the presence of a target analyte, and analyzing the amount of a target analyte. An automated receptacle transporting system moves the sample vessels from one station to the next. A method for performing an automated diagnostic assay includes an automated process for isolating and amplifying a target analyte, and, in one embodiment, a method for real-time monitoring of the amplification process. | 06-23-2011 |
20120024055 | Method, System and Apparatus for Incorporating Capacitive Proximity Sensing in an Automated Fluid Transfer Procedure - A fluid transfer apparatus includes a fluid transfer probe, a fluid level detection system, and a tip detection system. The fluid level detection system is configured to detect contact by the fluid transfer probe with a fluid surface within a receptacle from a signal based on the capacitance of the fluid transfer probe. The tip detection system is configured to detect the presence or absence of a tip at a distal end of the fluid transfer probe from a signal based on the capacitance of the fluid transfer probe. | 02-02-2012 |
20120128451 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR EFFECTING TRANSFER OF REACTION RECEPTACLES IN AN INSTRUMENT FOR MULTI-STEP ANALYTICAL PROCEDURES - Systems for effecting transfer of reaction receptacles between modules of an instrument for performing multi-step analytical procedures and for adjusting for variations in the positions of such modules includes a receptacle carrier supported on a track on which the carrier translates between different modules located adjacent to the track. The carrier includes a receptacle distribution head supported on a receptacle carrier carriage. The distribution head includes a receptacle moving mechanism adapted to move receptacles into and out of the distribution head and into and out of a module. The carriage is engaged with the track and adapted for translation along the track. Drive systems effect powered translation of the carriage, powered elevation and rotation of the distribution head, and powered movement of receptacles into and out of the distribution head. A transfer position locating system automatically determines a receptacle transfer position of the receptacle carrier with respect to each module. | 05-24-2012 |
20120261469 | CONTAMINATION CONTROL FOR LIQUID HANDLING - A structure ( | 10-18-2012 |
20140178977 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR DETECTING MULTIPLE OPTICAL SIGNALS - To minimize cross talk in systems and methods for detecting two or more different optical signals emitted from each of a plurality of reaction receptacles, an excitation signal associated with each of the optical signals has a known excitation frequency, and any detected signal having a frequency that is inconsistent with the excitation frequency is discarded. The receptacles are moved relative to optical sensors configured to detect each unique optical signal from an associated receptacle, and to further minimize cross talk, the optical sensors are arranged so that only one reaction receptacle at a time is in a signal detecting position with respect to one of its associated optical sensors, and the optical sensors are grouped by the optical signal they are configured to detect so that a first optical signal is detected from each of the reaction receptacles before a second optical signal is detected from the reaction receptacles. | 06-26-2014 |
20140209677 | METHOD FOR READING MACHINE-READABLE LABELS - A structure for holding sample-containing receptacles includes a cover with holes formed therein through which the receptacles can be accessed with a substance transfer mechanism, such as a robotic pipettor. When the transfer mechanism is inserted into and then withdrawn from a receptacle, a string of viscous material may be suspended from the mechanism. A viscous string removal element adjacent each opening engages the string of viscous material and dislodges the string from the mechanism when the mechanism moves in a prescribed path with respect to the removal element. A sample rack configured to hold receptacles and to be inserted into the structure below the cover includes a sample rack having receptacle-receiving pockets, each with a resilient element and a positioning feature for holding receptacles of varying sizes in a predetermined position within the receptacle receiving pocket, and a cover including features for preventing a receptacle from being pulled out of its receptacle-receiving pocket when the transfer mechanism is withdrawn from the receptacle. | 07-31-2014 |
20140260118 | INTERLOCKING CAP AND RECEPTACLE WITH DETENT FEATURE AND METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR SEPARATING INTERLOCKED CAP AND RECEPTACLE - System, apparatuses, and methods for performing automated reagent-based analysis are provided. Also provided are methods for automated attachment of a cap to a reaction receptacle, and automated removal of a cap from a capped reaction receptacle. | 09-18-2014 |
20140263153 | INTERLOCKING CAP AND RECEPTACLE FOR AUTOMATED PROCESSES - System, apparatuses, and methods for performing automated reagent-based analysis are provided. Also provided are methods for automated attachment of a cap to a reaction receptacle, and automated removal of a cap from a capped reaction receptacle. | 09-18-2014 |
20140263163 | EVAPORATION-CONTROLLING CONTAINER INSERTS - An apparatus configured for mixing the contents of one or more fluid containers includes a fluid container support platform configured to hold one or more fluid containers. The fluid container support platform is configured to index the container to one or more specified locations and to be moved in an orbital path about an orbital center independently of the rotation about the central axis of rotation. The apparatus further includes an indexing drive system configured to effect indexing movement of the container support platform and a vortex drive system configured to effect powered orbital movement of the container support platform about the orbital center. An evaporation limiting insert placed within containers reduces exposure of the fluid contents of the container to atmospheric air, thereby reducing susceptibility of the fluid contents to evaporation. | 09-18-2014 |
20140269159 | APPARATUS FOR INDEXING AND AGITATING FLUID CONTAINERS - An apparatus configured for mixing the contents of one or more fluid containers includes a fluid container support platform configured to hold one or more fluid containers. The fluid container support platform is configured to index the container to one or more specified locations and to be moved in an orbital path about an orbital center independently of the rotation about the central axis of rotation. The apparatus further includes an indexing drive system configured to effect indexing movement of the container support platform and a vortex drive system configured to effect powered orbital movement of the container support platform about the orbital center. An evaporation limiting insert placed within containers reduces exposure of the fluid contents of the container to atmospheric air, thereby reducing susceptibility of the fluid contents to evaporation. | 09-18-2014 |
20140271360 | MULTI-WELL TRAY AND RACK THEREFOR - System, apparatuses, and methods for performing automated reagent-based analysis are provided. Also provided are methods for automated attachment of a cap to a reaction receptacle, and automated removal of a cap from a capped reaction receptacle. | 09-18-2014 |
20140271409 | FLUID CARTRIDGE - System, apparatuses, and methods for performing automated reagent-based analysis are provided. Also provided are methods for automated attachment of a cap to a reaction receptacle, and automated removal of a cap from a capped reaction receptacle. | 09-18-2014 |
20140272989 | REAGENT WELLS CONTAINING LYOPHILIZED REAGENTS - System, apparatuses, and methods for performing automated reagent-based analysis are provided. Also provided are methods for automated attachment of a cap to a reaction receptacle, and automated removal of a cap from a capped reaction receptacle. | 09-18-2014 |
20140373970 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR EFFECTING AUTOMATED MOVEMENT OF A MAGNET IN AN INSTRUMENT FOR PERFORMING A MAGNETIC SEPARATION PROCEDURE - Methods, systems, and apparatus are provided for automated isolation of selected analytes, to which magnetically-responsive solid supports are bound, from other components of a sample. An apparatus for performing an automated magnetic separation procedure includes a mechanism for effecting linear movement of a magnet between operative and non-operative positions with respect to a receptacle device. A receptacle holding station within which a receptacle device may be temporarily stored prior to moving the receptacle to the apparatus for performing magnetic separation includes magnets for applying a magnetic field to the receptacle device held therein, thereby drawing at least a proton of the magnetically-responsive solid supports out of suspension before the receptacle device is moved to the magnetic separation station. An automated receptacle transport mechanism moves the receptacle devices between the apparatus for performing magnetic separation and the receptacle holding station. | 12-25-2014 |
20150196915 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR EFFECTING AUTOMATED MOVEMENT OF A MAGNET IN AN INSTRUMENT FOR PERFORMING A MAGNETIC SEPARATION PROCEDURE - Methods, systems, and apparatus are provided for automated isolation of selected analytes, to which magnetically-responsive solid supports are bound, from other components of a sample. An apparatus for performing an automated magnetic separation procedure includes a mechanism for effecting linear movement of a magnet between operative and non-operative positions with respect to a receptacle device. A receptacle holding station within which a receptacle device may be temporarily stored prior to moving the receptacle to the apparatus for performing magnetic separation includes magnets for applying a magnetic field to the receptacle device held therein, thereby drawing at least a proton of the magnetically-responsive solid supports out of suspension before the receptacle device is moved to the magnetic separation station. An automated receptacle transport mechanism moves the receptacle devices between the apparatus for performing magnetic separation and the receptacle holding station. | 07-16-2015 |
20150197014 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR EFFECTING AUTOMATED MOVEMENT OF A MAGNET IN AN INSTRUMENT FOR PERFORMING A MAGNETIC SEPARATION PROCEDURE - Methods, systems, and apparatus are provided for automated isolation of selected analytes, to which magnetically-responsive solid supports are bound, from other components of a sample. An apparatus for performing an automated magnetic separation procedure includes a mechanism for effecting linear movement of a magnet between operative and non-operative positions with respect to a receptacle device. A receptacle holding station within which a receptacle device may be temporarily stored prior to moving the receptacle to the apparatus for performing magnetic separation includes magnets for applying a magnetic field to the receptacle device held therein, thereby drawing at least a proton of the magnetically-responsive solid supports out of suspension before the receptacle device is moved to the magnetic separation station. An automated receptacle transport mechanism moves the receptacle devices between the apparatus for performing magnetic separation and the receptacle holding station. | 07-16-2015 |
Patent application number | Description | Published |
20080209621 | FLUSH VALVE - Described here are flush valves for delivering a selected amount of water from a toilet tank into a toilet bowl, particularly collapsible flush valves having substantial durability and resistance to wear and deleterious chemicals. These flush valves have a collapsible member extending from above the surface of the water in the toilet tank to the tank outlet in the normal (closed flush valve) state. Collapsing the flush valve allows water to flow into the toilet bowl through the flush valve until the toilet tank is drained to the level of the collapsed flush valve and buoyancy is restored. Flush valves may be made of a material that does not substantially deteriorate in the presence of halogen-containing toilet disinfectants, and the outer surface (the water contacting surface) of the flush valves may be a single continuous piece. | 09-04-2008 |
20090238389 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR IN SITU CERUMEN REMOVAL FROM HEARING DEVICES - Various embodiments provide systems, methods and assemblies for in situ removal of cerumen from hearing devices positioned in the ear canal. One embodiments provides a fitting for in situ cerumen removal comprising a top portion shaped to be removably coupled to a hearing device component surface and a plurality of leg members extending axially from a perimeter of the top portion. The top portion has a plurality of openings and at least one flexible retaining element configured to releasably engage a retaining feature on the hearing device. The leg members are configured to fit over another surface of the hearing device component. The fitting is configured to remove cerumen obstructing a feature on the device component and can be removed from the device component without removing the hearing device from the ear canal. The fitting can also include a removal loop that has a non-deployed state and a deployed state. | 09-24-2009 |
20100198016 | BIOLOGICAL NAVIGATION DEVICE - Biological navigation devices and methods are disclosed. The devices can be used as or to support colonoscopies or endoscopes. The devices can have one or more releasable, and/or everting, and/or pressurized tubes. The devices can be removably attached to elongated elements, such as colonoscopes or other endoscopes. | 08-05-2010 |
20130187636 | Energy Harvest Split Core Design Elements for Ease of Installation, High Performance, and Long Term Reliability - A power distribution monitoring system is provided that can include a number of features. The system can include a plurality of power line sensing devices configured to attach to individual conductors on a power grid distribution network. In some embodiments, the power line sensors can include a split-core transformer. In some embodiments, a power line sensing device is disposed on each conductor of a three-phase network. The sensing devices can be configured to measure and monitor, among other things, current and electric-field on the conductors. Methods of installing, sealing, and protecting the split-core transformers of the power line sensors are also discussed. | 07-25-2013 |
20150133731 | BIOLOGICAL NAVIGATION DEVICE - Biological navigation devices and methods are disclosed. The devices can be used as or to support colonoscopies or endoscopes. The devices can have one or more releasable, and/or everting, and/or pressurized tubes. The devices can be removably attached to elongated elements, such as colonoscopes or other endoscopes. | 05-14-2015 |
Patent application number | Description | Published |
20140125491 | PORTABLE BIOMETRIC MONITORING DEVICES AND METHODS OF OPERATING SAME - The present inventions, in one aspect, are directed to portable biometric monitoring device including a housing having a physical size and shape that is adapted to couple to the user's body, at least one band to secure the monitoring device to the user, a physiological sensor, disposed in the housing, to generate data which is representative of a physiological condition of the user data. The physiological sensor may include a light source to generate and output light having at least a first wavelength, and a photodetector to detect scattered light (e.g., from the user). A light pipe is disposed in the housing and optically coupled to the light source directs/transmits light therefrom along a predetermined path to an outer surface of the housing. Processing circuitry calculates a heart rate of the user using data which is representative of the scattered light. | 05-08-2014 |
20140127996 | PORTABLE BIOMETRIC MONITORING DEVICES AND METHODS OF OPERATING SAME - The present inventions, in one aspect, are directed to portable biometric monitoring device including a housing having a physical size and shape that is adapted to couple to the user's body, at least one band to secure the monitoring device to the user, a physiological sensor, disposed in the housing, to generate data which is representative of a physiological condition of the user data. The physiological sensor may include a light source to generate and output light having at least a first wavelength, and a photodetector to detect scattered light (e.g., from the user). A light pipe is disposed in the housing and optically coupled to the light source directs/transmits light therefrom along a predetermined path to an outer surface of the housing. Processing circuitry calculates a heart rate of the user using data which is representative of the scattered light. | 05-08-2014 |
20140176335 | BIOMETRIC MONITORING DEVICE WITH CONTEXTUALLY- OR ENVIRONMENTALLY-DEPENDENT DISPLAY - A biometric monitoring device with a display is provided. The display may, in response to receiving page advance requests from a user, advance through a plurality of different data display pages, at least some of which show aspects of biometric data recorded by the device. The biometric monitoring device may also, based on the biometric data, modify the sequential display order of the data display pages. In some implementations, a biometric monitoring device integrated into a wristband may be configured to turn a display of the biometric monitoring device on and display the time in response to biometric sensors of the biometric monitoring device detecting motion of the wearer's forearm consistent with moving the forearm into a watch-viewing position. | 06-26-2014 |
20140176346 | BIOMETRIC MONITORING DEVICE WITH CONTEXTUALLY- OR ENVIRONMENTALLY-DEPENDENT DISPLAY - A biometric monitoring device with a display is provided. The display may, in response to receiving page advance requests from a user, advance through a plurality of different data display pages, at least some of which show aspects of biometric data recorded by the device. The biometric monitoring device may also, based on the biometric data, modify the sequential display order of the data display pages. In some implementations, a biometric monitoring device integrated into a wristband may be configured to turn a display of the biometric monitoring device on and display the time in response to biometric sensors of the biometric monitoring device detecting motion of the wearer's forearm consistent with moving the forearm into a watch-viewing position. | 06-26-2014 |
20140176422 | BIOMETRIC MONITORING DEVICE WITH WRIST-MOTION TRIGGERED DISPLAY - A biometric monitoring device with a display is provided. The display may, in response to receiving page advance requests from a user, advance through a plurality of different data display pages, at least some of which show aspects of biometric data recorded by the device. The biometric monitoring device may also, based on the biometric data, modify the sequential display order of the data display pages. In some implementations, a biometric monitoring device integrated into a wristband may be configured to turn a display of the biometric monitoring device on and display the time in response to biometric sensors of the biometric monitoring device detecting motion of the wearer's forearm consistent with moving the forearm into a watch-viewing position. | 06-26-2014 |
20140180595 | DEVICE STATE DEPENDENT USER INTERFACE MANAGEMENT - A biometric monitoring device with a display is provided. The display may, in response to receiving page advance requests from a user, advance through a plurality of different data display pages, at least some of which show aspects of biometric data recorded by the device. The biometric monitoring device may also, based on the biometric data, modify the sequential display order of the data display pages. In some implementations, a biometric monitoring device integrated into a wristband may be configured to turn a display of the biometric monitoring device on and display the time in response to biometric sensors of the biometric monitoring device detecting motion of the wearer's forearm consistent with moving the forearm into a watch-viewing position. | 06-26-2014 |
20150094831 | DELAYED GOAL CELEBRATION - A biometric monitoring device with a display is provided. The biometric monitoring device may track the completion progress towards one or more biometric performance goals and provide a goal celebration indicator upon completion of a biometric performance goal and subsequent receipt of an input signal. In some implementations, the completion of a biometric performance goal may be signaled prior to receipt of the input signal using a secondary indicator. | 04-02-2015 |
20150094832 | DELAYED GOAL CELEBRATION - A biometric monitoring device with a display is provided. The biometric monitoring device may track the completion progress towards one or more biometric performance goals and provide a goal celebration indicator upon completion of a biometric performance goal and subsequent receipt of an input signal. In some implementations, the completion of a biometric performance goal may be signaled prior to receipt of the input signal using a secondary indicator. | 04-02-2015 |
20150231446 | DELAYED GOAL CELEBRATION - A biometric monitoring device with a display is provided. The biometric monitoring device may track the completion progress towards one or more biometric performance goals and provide a goal celebration indicator upon completion of a biometric performance goal and subsequent receipt of an input signal. In some implementations, the completion of a biometric performance goal may be signaled prior to receipt of the input signal using a secondary indicator. | 08-20-2015 |
20150245801 | DELAYED GOAL CELEBRATION - A biometric monitoring device with a display is provided. The biometric monitoring device may track the completion progress towards one or more biometric performance goals and provide a goal celebration indicator upon completion of a biometric performance goal and subsequent receipt of an input signal. In some implementations, the completion of a biometric performance goal may be signaled prior to receipt of the input signal using a secondary indicator. | 09-03-2015 |
Patent application number | Description | Published |
20130019384 | BIOMECHANICS AWARE PROTECTIVE GEAR - Protective gear includes an outer shell layer connected to a middle shell layer through an outer energy and impact transformer layer. The middle shell layer is connected to an inner shell layer through an inner energy and impact transformer layer. The outer and inner energy and impact transformer layers flexibly connect the shell layers to absorb impact threes, rotational forces, shear forces, etc., and allow the various shell layers to move and slide relative to the other shell layers. The outer and inner energy and impact transformer layers may be constructed using gels, fluids, electro-rheological elements, magneto-theological elements, etc. The protective gear may be firmed as helmets or body protection for various activities and protect users from not only impact and penetrative forces, but rotational and shear forces as well. | 01-24-2013 |
20130019385 | ENERGY AND IMPACT TRANSFORMER LAYER - Protective gear such as a helmet includes multiple shell layers connected through energy and impact transformer layers. The energy and impact transformer layers may include conical structures used to dissipate mechanical energy applied to an outer shell layer while allowing an outer shell layer the ability to rotate with respect to a middle or inner shell layer. The conical structures may be three dimensional pyramids, three dimensional parabolic structures, and may be outwardly or inwardly oriented. | 01-24-2013 |
20140109299 | SHEAR REDUCTION MECHANISM - Protective gear such as a helmet includes multiple layers including an outer ball bearing layer and/or one or more energy and impact transformer layers. The ball bearing layer exposes multiple ball bearings on the outer surface of the protective gear to deflect and diminish shear forces and other rotational forces imparted onto the outer surface. In many examples, the ball bearings on the outer surface prevent the transfer of shear and rotational forces from the surface of a helmet onto a skull. The energy and impact transformer layers may also include various structures and materials used to dissipate mechanical energy applied to an outer layer or outer shell layer. | 04-24-2014 |
20140109304 | INTELLIGENT PROTECTIVE GEAR BRACING MECHANISM - Protective gear such as a helmet includes an intelligent bracing mechanism such as an intelligent neck bracing mechanism. The intelligent bracing mechanism detects imminent mechanical forces such as impact, shear, and rotational forces and stiffens the bracing mechanism so that forces imparted onto the protective gear can be distributed to one or more other locations. In one example, a sensor detects an imminent mechanical force impact on an outer shell of a helmet and stiffens a neck brace connected to the helmet to distribute some of the energy from the impact onto the shoulders. | 04-24-2014 |
Patent application number | Description | Published |
20120317052 | COLLECTIVELY ANALYZING HOLDINGS ACROSS MULTIPLE FIXED INCOME PRODUCTS - Systems, methods, and computer-readable mediums (i.e., utilities) for use in enabling corporate treasurers, money managers, and other investors to view and analyze consolidated credit risk on individual investments across multiple money market products (MMPs) and/or multiple accounts. In one aspect, the utilities may generate a database of MMP and related holding information that may be used to research and analyze one or more MMPs and/or underlying securities even if the same MMP or security is associated with different identifiers. In another aspect, the securities or holdings of the MMPs of actual or sample accounts may be aggregated (e.g., by common identifier, sponsor, issuer, etc.) either within MMPs and/or across multiple MMPs and subsequently analyzed to generate inferences and to obtain numerous types of information which may be presented to corporate treasurers and/or other users on a display (e.g., text, charts, graphs, etc.) for use in gauging a company's or other entity's credit exposure and in making decisions based on what is displayed. | 12-13-2012 |
20150026098 | COLLECTIVELY ANALYZING HOLDINGS ACROSS MULTIPLE FIXED INCOME PRODUCTS - Systems, methods, and computer-readable mediums (i.e., utilities) for use in enabling corporate treasurers, money managers, and other investors to view and analyze consolidated credit risk on individual investments across multiple money market products (MMPs) and/or multiple accounts. In one aspect, the utilities may generate a database of MMP and related holding information that may be used to research and analyze one or more MMPs and/or underlying securities even if the same MMP or security is associated with different identifiers. In another aspect, the securities or holdings of the MMPs of actual or sample accounts may be aggregated (e.g., by common identifier, sponsor, issuer, etc.) either within MMPs and/or across multiple MMPs and subsequently analyzed to generate inferences and to obtain numerous types of information which may be presented to corporate treasurers and/or other users on a display (e.g., text, charts, graphs, etc.) for use in gauging a company's or other entity's credit exposure and in making decisions based on what is displayed. | 01-22-2015 |
20150066809 | COLLECTIVELY ANALYZING HOLDINGS ACROSS MULTIPLE FIXED INCOME PRODUCTS - Systems, methods, and computer-readable mediums (i.e., utilities) for use in enabling corporate treasurers, money managers, and other investors to view and analyze consolidated credit risk on individual investments across multiple money market products (MMPs) and/or multiple accounts. In one aspect, the utilities may generate a database of MMP and related holding information that may be used to research and analyze one or more MMPs and/or underlying securities even if the same MMP or security is associated with different identifiers. In another aspect, the securities or holdings of the MMPs of actual or sample accounts may be aggregated (e.g., by common identifier, sponsor, issuer, etc.) either within MMPs and/or across multiple MMPs and subsequently analyzed to generate inferences and to obtain numerous types of information which may be presented to corporate treasurers and/or other users on a display (e.g., text, charts, graphs, etc.) for use in gauging a company's or other entity's credit exposure and in making decisions based on what is displayed. | 03-05-2015 |
Patent application number | Description | Published |
20090204097 | ENTERAL FEEDING SAFETY RESERVOIR AND SYSTEM - The present invention provides a system comprising: a reservoir body configured to hold a reservoir liner, wherein the reservoir liner is configured to hold an enteral feeding material; a reservoir connector configured to connect to the reservoir liner in a manner that permits flow of an enteral feeding material; a reservoir cap configured to connect to the reservoir body in a manner that connects the reservoir connector to the reservoir liner disposed within the reservoir body; and a syringe adapter enteral feeding assembly having a distal end configured to connect to the reservoir cap in a manner that permits flow of the enteral feeding material, and a proximal end configured to connect to an enteral feeding device in a manner that permits flow of the enteral feeding material. | 08-13-2009 |
20100022984 | ENTERAL FEEDING SAFETY RESERVOIR AND SYSTEM - The present invention provides a one-piece bottle containing enteral feeding material and having a top end with a threaded section and a bottom end comprising a funneled connector port; and a threaded cap dimensioned to mate with the threaded section of the one-piece bottle; wherein the funneled connector port connects to an enteral feeding assembly; wherein the threaded cap provides a leak proof seal when tightened on the threaded section of the one-piece bottle, and allows venting of the bottle when loosened. | 01-28-2010 |
20100204669 | ENTERAL FEEDING SAFETY RESERVOIR AND SYSTEM - The present invention provides a one-piece bottle containing enteral feeding material and having a top end with a threaded section and a bottom end comprising a funneled connector port; and a threaded cap dimensioned to mate with the threaded section of the one-piece bottle; wherein the funneled connector port connects to an enteral feeding assembly; wherein the threaded cap provides a leak proof seal such that there is no exposure point until it is used for feeding, thereby preventing contamination. | 08-12-2010 |
20120226262 | ENTERAL FEEDING SAFETY RESERVOIR AND METHOD - The present invention provides a system comprising: a reservoir body configured to hold a reservoir liner, wherein the reservoir liner is configured to hold an enteral feeding material; a reservoir connector configured to connect to the reservoir liner in a manner that permits flow of an enteral feeding material; a reservoir cap configured to connect to the reservoir body in a manner that connects the reservoir connector to the reservoir liner disposed within the reservoir body; and a syringe adapter enteral feeding assembly having a distal end configured to connect to the reservoir cap in a manner that permits flow of the enteral feeding material, and a proximal end configured to connect to an enteral feeding device in a manner that permits flow of the enteral feeding material. | 09-06-2012 |
20120283690 | ENTERAL FEEDING SAFETY RESERVOIR AND SYSTEM - The present invention provides a one-piece bottle containing enteral feeding material and having a top end with a threaded section and a bottom end comprising a funneled connector port; and a threaded cap dimensioned to mate with the threaded section of the one-piece bottle; wherein the funneled connector port connects to an enteral feeding assembly; wherein the threaded cap provides a leak proof seal when tightened on the threaded section of the one-piece bottle, and allows venting of the bottle when loosened. | 11-08-2012 |
20130046272 | ENTERAL FEEDING SAFETY RESERVOIR AND SYSTEM - A one-piece bottle is provided, the bottle having a capacity that does not exceed 10 ml, containing enteral feeding material, and having a top end with a threaded section and a bottom end comprising a funneled connector port; and a threaded cap dimensioned to mate with the threaded section of the one-piece bottle; wherein the funneled connector port connects to an enteral feeding assembly; wherein the threaded cap provides a leak proof seal such that there is no exposure point until it is used for feeding, thereby preventing contamination. | 02-21-2013 |
20130190728 | ENTERAL FEEDING SAFETY RESERVOIR AND SYSTEM - The present invention provides a one-piece bottle containing enteral feeding material and having a top end with a threaded section and a bottom end comprising a funneled connector port; and a threaded cap dimensioned to mate with the threaded section of the one-piece bottle; wherein the funneled connector port connects to an enteral feeding assembly; wherein the threaded cap provides a leak proof seal such that there is no exposure point until it is used for feeding, thereby preventing contamination. | 07-25-2013 |
Patent application number | Description | Published |
20100141802 | Light Field Data Acquisition Devices, and Methods of Using and Manufacturing Same - Certain light field data acquisition devices and methods of using and manufacturing such devices. In one aspect, a light field imaging device for acquiring light field image data of a scene, the device comprises optics, wherein the optics includes an optical path and a focal point, wherein the focal point is associated with a focal length of the optics. A light field sensor to acquire light field image data in response to a first user input and located at a substantially fixed, predetermined location relative to the focal point of the optics, wherein the predetermined location is substantially independent of the scene. The optical depth of field of the optics with respect to the light field sensor extends to a depth that is closer than optical infinity. Processing circuitry, coupled the user interface, to: (a) determine a first virtual focus depth of the light field image data, wherein the first virtual focus depth is different from the optical focus depth of the light field image data, (b) automatically generate data which is representative of a first image of the scene using the light field image data, wherein the first image includes a focus which corresponds to the first virtual focus depth, (c) output the data which is representative of the first image, and, after outputting the data which is representative of the first image and in response to the second user input, (d) determine a second virtual focus depth of the light field image data using data which is representative of the second user input, wherein the second user input is indicative of the second virtual focus depth, and (e) generate data which is representative of a second image of the scene which includes a focus that corresponds to the second virtual focus depth. | 06-10-2010 |
20120327222 | Light Field Data Acquisition - A light field data acquisition device includes optics and a light field sensor to acquire light field image data of a scene. In at least one embodiment, the light field sensor is located at a substantially fixed, predetermined distance relative to the focal point of the optics. In response to user input, the light field acquires the light field image data of the scene, and a storage device stores the acquired data. Such acquired data can subsequently be used to generate a plurality of images of the scene using different virtual focus depths. | 12-27-2012 |
20140146201 | OPTIMIZATION OF OPTICAL SYSTEMS FOR IMPROVED LIGHT FIELD CAPTURE AND MANIPULATION - According to various embodiments of the present invention, the optical systems of light field capture devices are optimized so as to improve captured light field image data. Optimizing optical systems of light field capture devices can result in captured light field image data (both still and video) that is cheaper and/or easier to process. Optical systems can be optimized to yield improved quality or resolution when using cheaper processing approaches whose computational costs fit within various processing and/or resource constraints. As such, the optical systems of light field cameras can be optimized to reduce size and/or cost and/or increase the quality of such optical systems. | 05-29-2014 |
20140176592 | CONFIGURING TWO-DIMENSIONAL IMAGE PROCESSING BASED ON LIGHT-FIELD PARAMETERS - According to various embodiments, the present may be used to apply a wide variety of processes to a two-dimensional image generated from light-field data. One or more parameters, such as light-field parameters and/or device capture parameters may be included in metadata of the two-dimensional image, and may be retrieved and processed to determine the appropriate value(s) of a first setting of the process. The process may be applied uniformly, or with variation across subsets of the two-dimensional image, down to individual pixels. The process may be a noise filtering process, an image sharpening process, a color adjustment process, a tone curve process, a contrast adjustment process, a saturation adjustment process, a gamma adjustment process, a combination thereof, or any other known process that may be desirable for enhancing two-dimensional images. | 06-26-2014 |
20140211077 | LIGHT FIELD DATA ACQUISITION - A light field data acquisition device includes optics and a light field sensor to acquire light field image data of a scene. In at least one embodiment, the light field sensor is located at a substantially fixed, predetermined distance relative to the focal point of the optics. In response to user input, the light field acquires the light field image data of the scene, and a storage device stores the acquired data. Such acquired data can subsequently be used to generate a plurality of images of the scene using different virtual focus depths. | 07-31-2014 |
20140240578 | LIGHT-FIELD BASED AUTOFOCUS - In various embodiments, the present invention relates to methods, systems, architectures, algorithms, designs, and user interfaces for light-field based autofocus. In response to receiving a focusing request at a camera, a light-field autofocus system captures a light-field image. An image crop that contains a region of interest and a specified border is determined. A series of refocused images are generated for the image crop at different scene depths. A focus metric is calculated for each refocused image. The scene depth of the refocused image with the best focus metric is identified as the appropriate focus. The focus motor position for the appropriate focus is selected and the focus motor is automatically driven to the selected focus motor position. | 08-28-2014 |
Patent application number | Description | Published |
20100265385 | Light Field Camera Image, File and Configuration Data, and Methods of Using, Storing and Communicating Same - Certain devices and methods are directed to acquiring, generating and/or outputting image data corresponding to a scene. In one aspect, the method comprises (i) acquiring light field data which is representative of a light field from the scene, (ii) acquiring configuration data which is representative of how light rays optically propagate through the data acquisition device (used to acquire the light field data), (iii) generating first image data using the light field data and the configuration data, wherein the first image data includes a focus or focus depth that is different from a focus or focus depth of the light field data, (iv) generating a first electronic data file including (a) the first image data, (b) the light field data, and (c) the configuration data, and (v) outputting the first electronic data file. In one aspect, the light field acquisition device comprises optics, a light field sensor (located in the optical path of the optics) to acquire light field image data, processing circuitry to: (i) determine configuration data which is representative of how light rays optically propagate through the optics and light field sensor, and (ii) generate and output the electronic data file, wherein the electronic data file includes (a) image data, (b) light field data which is representative of a light field from the scene, and (c) configuration data. The device also includes memory (internal and/or external) to store the electronic data file. | 10-21-2010 |
20130113981 | LIGHT FIELD CAMERA IMAGE, FILE AND CONFIGURATION DATA, AND METHODS OF USING, STORING AND COMMUNICATING SAME - A method for acquiring, generating, and/or outputting image data comprises (i) acquiring light field data representative of a scene, (ii) acquiring configuration data representative of how light rays optically propagate through a device, (iii) generating image data using the light field data and the configuration data, wherein the image data includes a focus depth different from that of the light field data, (iv) generating an electronic data file including the image data, the light field data, and the configuration data, and (v) outputting the electronic data file. In one aspect, a light field acquisition device comprises optics, a light field sensor, and processing circuitry to: (i) determine configuration data representative of how light rays optically propagate through the optics, and (ii) generate the electronic data file, wherein the electronic data file includes image data, light field data representative of a light field from the scene, and configuration data. | 05-09-2013 |
Patent application number | Description | Published |
20110234841 | Storage and Transmission of Pictures Including Multiple Frames - According to various embodiments, multiple frames, each having image data and metadata, can be aggregated into pictures. The frames may come from different image capture devices, enabling aggregation of image data from multiple sources. Aggregation can be automatic, or it can be performed in response to user input specifying particular combinations of frames to be aggregated. In various embodiments, pictures are mutable, whereas immutability of the constituent frames is enforced. In various embodiments, certain metadata elements that are not essential to rendering can be selectively removed from frames, so as to address privacy concerns. In various embodiments, frames can be authenticated by the use of digests generated by a hash function. | 09-29-2011 |
20120249550 | Selective Transmission of Image Data Based on Device Attributes - A system and method are provided for storing, manipulating, and/or transmitting image data, such as light field photographs and the like, in a manner that efficiently delivers different capabilities and features based on device attributes, user requirements and preferences, context, and/or other factors. Acceleration structures are provided, which enable selective use of certain types of data (also referred to as “assets”) based on device attributes such as image size, desired functionality, user preference, and/or the like. In this manner, the system and method of the present invention takes into account specific attributes and parameters in determining which data should be included, so as to optimize transmission, storage, and/or rendering of image data, including light field data, to improve efficiency and avoid waste of resources. | 10-04-2012 |
20130222606 | COMPENSATING FOR VARIATION IN MICROLENS POSITION DURING LIGHT-FIELD IMAGE PROCESSING - Light-field image data is processed in a manner that reduces projection artifacts in the presence of variation in microlens position by calibrating microlens positions. Initially, approximate centers of disks in a light-field image are identified. Gridded calibration is then performed, by fitting lines to disk centers along orthogonal directions, and then fitting a rigid grid to the light-field image. For each grid region, a corresponding disk center is computed by passing values for pixels within that grid region into weighted-center equations. A displacement vector is then generated, based on the distance from the geometric center of the grid region to the computed disk center. For each grid region, the final disk center is computed as the vector sum of the grid region's geometric center and displacement vector. Calibration data, including displacement vectors, is then used in calibrating disk centers for more accurate projection of light-field images. | 08-29-2013 |
20130222633 | LIGHT-FIELD PROCESSING AND ANALYSIS, CAMERA CONTROL, AND USER INTERFACES AND INTERACTION ON LIGHT-FIELD CAPTURE DEVICES - In various embodiments, the present invention relates to methods, systems, architectures, algorithms, designs, and user interfaces for capturing, processing, analyzing, displaying, annotating, modifying, and/or interacting with light-field data on a light-field capture device. In at least one embodiment, the light-field capture device communicates to the user information about the scene during live-view to aid him or her in capturing light-field images that provide increased refocusing ability, increased parallax and perspective shifting ability, increased stereo disparity, and/or more dramatic post-capture effects. Additional embodiments present a standard 2D camera interface to software running on the light-field capture device to enable such software to function normally even though the device is actually capturing light-field data. Additional embodiments provide the ability to control camera optical elements to facilitate ease of composition and capture of light-field data, and/or generating a plurality of 2D video streams derived from a stream of light-field data. | 08-29-2013 |
20130222652 | COMPENSATING FOR SENSOR SATURATION AND MICROLENS MODULATION DURING LIGHT-FIELD IMAGE PROCESSING - According to various embodiments, the system and method of the present invention process light-field image data so as to reduce color artifacts, reduce projection artifacts, and/or increase dynamic range. These techniques operate, for example, on image data affected by sensor saturation and/or microlens modulation. Flat-field images are captured and converted to modulation images, and then applied on a per-pixel basis, according to techniques described herein. | 08-29-2013 |
20140300646 | GENERATING DOLLY ZOOM EFFECT USING LIGHT FIELD IMAGE DATA - According to various embodiments, a dolly zoom effect is generated using light field image data. The dolly zoom effect simulates an in-camera technique wherein a camera moves toward or away from the subject in such a way that the subject is kept at the same size throughout the effect. The effect causes the relative size of foreground background elements to change while foreground elements such as the subject remain the same size. By varying a parameter while projecting the light field image, the size of each object in the projection image scales depending on its relative depth as compared with the depth of the target subject, thus simulating the dolly zoom effect without any need to physically move the camera. | 10-09-2014 |
20150029386 | MICROLENS ARRAY ARCHITECTURE FOR AVOIDING GHOSTING IN PROJECTED IMAGES - Light-field image data is processed in a manner that reduces projection artifacts in the presence of variation in microlens position by calibrating microlens positions. Approximate centers of disks in a light-field image are identified, and gridded calibration is performed, by fitting lines to disk centers along orthogonal directions, and then fitting a rigid grid to the light-field image. For each grid region, a corresponding disk center is computed, and a displacement vector is generated. For each grid region, the final disk center is computed as the vector sum of the grid region's geometric center and displacement vector. Calibration data, including displacement vectors, is then used in calibrating disk centers for more accurate projection of light-field images. In at least one embodiment, the imaging geometry is arranged so that disks are separated by a gap, so as to limit or eliminate ghosting. | 01-29-2015 |