180 results about "Equipment Operator" patented technology

Visual methods and systems are described for detecting alertness and vigilance of persons under conditions of fatigue, lack of sleep, and exposure to mind altering substances such as alcohol and drugs. In particular, the intention can have particular applications for truck drivers, bus drivers, train operators, pilots and watercraft controllers and stationary heavy equipment operators, and students and employees during either daytime or nighttime conditions. The invention robustly tracks a person's head and facial features with a single on-board camera with a fully automatic system, that can initialize automatically, and can reinitialize when it need's to and provide outputs in realtime. The system can classify rotation in all viewing direction, detects' eye / mouth occlusion, detects' eye blinking, and recovers the 3D(three dimensional) gaze of the eyes. In addition, the system is able to track both through occlusion like eye blinking and also through occlusion like rotation. Outputs can be visual and sound alarms to the driver directly. Additional outputs can slow down the vehicle cause and / or cause the vehicle to come to a full stop. Further outputs can send data on driver, operator, student and employee vigilance to remote locales as needed for alarms and initiating other actions.

In a system and method for assessing and modifying fatigue, an input device receives current work-rest pattern and / or sleep data from an individual. A data aggregation and processing platform combines the current work-rest pattern and / or sleep data with previous data related to the individual to generate a fatigue assessment result, a diagnostic assessment result, and a corrective intervention result. At least one output display outputs the fatigue assessment result, diagnostic assessment result and corrective intervention result in a user-readable format to a user. The user uses this information to revise the work-rest pattern to reduce or control future fatigue risk.

A portable, interactive electronic training device for prompting a trainee on the proper sequence of steps for performing CPR, using a defibrillator and performing CPR in conjunction with the use of a defibrillator. The device simulates the obtaining of direct information about a patient's condition, such as ECG data collected directly from the patient. The device receives information pertinent to the treatment of the patient indirectly through an operator of the device. The device prompts a trainee on the medically appropriate action such as a defibrillation shock in response to the indirect and direct information. Indirect information is obtained through information processing means that includes means for prompting the operator of the device and means for receiving the operator's responses thereto. Prompts may include both questions and instructions, and in one embodiment the information processing means obtains the assent of the operator before causing the defibrillation shock. Indirect information may include information as to whether the patient is conscious, whether the patient is an adult, baby or child, and as to whether or not cardiopulmonary resuscitation has been performed. The device also prompts the user on proper placement of training electrode pads upon a simulated victim's chest by prompting feedback to the trainee if the pads are not placed on the conductive targets located upon the simulated victim's chest.

Methods and systems to screen equipment operators for impairments, such as intoxication, physical impairment, medical impairment, or emotional impairment, to selectively test the equipment operators and control the equipment if impairment of the equipment operator is determined. One embodiment is a method to screen an equipment operator for intoxication. A second embodiment is a method to screen an equipment operator for impairment, such as intoxication, physical impairment, medical impairment, or emotional impairment. A third embodiment is an equipment operator screening system to determine impairment, such as intoxication, physical impairment, medical impairment, or emotional impairment.

A method and apparatus for detecting the alertness of an equipment operator by displaying a moving icon, and asking the operator to track the movements of the icon, either by following it with the eyes in a head mounted display, or by following it with a finger on a touch screen. The operator's performance can be measured by tracking the gaze of the operator's eyes, or by tracking the operator's finger movements. The performance of the operator can be compared to that particular person's history of test results, or to a data base of test results of other operators. The characteristics of the icon can be varied, and distractions can be provided on the display or screen. Control of the display or screen, tracking of the operator's eyes or finger, and analysis of the test results, can all be performed by a computer.

A medical procedure cart includes a housing having a working surface disposed on a top thereof. The working surface forms a tray and includes a transparent top removably disposed above the tray. A height adjustment mechanism adjusts the height of the working surface. The template includes a plurality of figures depicting various different materials, instruments and equipment an operator prefers for a particular procedure. The operator can place the instruments, supplies and equipment on the transparent top of the working surface above a corresponding figure to enable the working surface to be stocked for a particular procedure.

A portable, interactive electronic training device for prompting a trainee on the proper sequence of steps for performing CPR, using a defibrillator and performing CPR in conjunction with the use of a defibrillator. The device simulates the obtaining of direct information about a patient's condition, such as ECG data collected directly from the patient. The device receives information pertinent to the treatment of the patient indirectly through an operator of the device. The device prompts a trainee on the medically appropriate action such as a defibrillation shock in response to the indirect and direct information. Indirect information is obtained through information processing means that includes means for prompting the operator of the device and means for receiving the operator's responses thereto. Prompts may include both questions and instructions, and in one embodiment the information processing means obtains the assent of the operator before causing the defibrillation shock. Indirect information may include information as to whether the patient is conscious, whether the patient is an adult, baby or child, and as to whether or not cardiopulmonary resuscitation has been performed. The device also prompts the user on proper placement of training electrode pads upon a simulated victim's chest by prompting feedback to the trainee if the pads are not placed on the conductive targets located upon the simulated victim's chest.

A wireless sensor network will be used to detect the location of subsurface infrastructures such as a pipeline. The objective is to alert the infrastructure operator and the construction equipment operator of the threat of damage to the infrastructure. Currently the equipment operator has to depend on the color marks made by the locater sent by the One-Call center. The low cost wireless sensor network will alert the operator when the machine tool gets close to an existing utility. A combination of radio frequency signal, ultrasonic pulse, and acoustic signals is used to determine the infrastructure location. A sensor network is then used to map the infrastructure location with respect to the construction equipment operator and provide a reliable, accurate system to alert the operator of the potential danger.

A number of laser beam stations emit vertically separated parallel planes and / or ray-planes of laser light that can be discriminated by their respective plane elevations, modulation of the laser light, time synchronizing, etc. Identifying the laser plane would also imply an identification of the source laser beam station, and thus a precise indication of the elevation at the point of optical intercept. Alternatively, a single laser beam station is used that can emit several different monochromatic color planes and / or ray-planes of laser light. Monochromatic laser diodes, for example, are used for point-light sources and rotating or on-end conical mirrors are used to convert the diode laser light to the required monochromatic color planes and / or ray-planes of laser light. Receivers, generally held on masts attached to motor grader, bulldozer, loader, and excavator machines are used to sense the vertical reference position of the monochromatic color planes and / or ray-planes of laser light, relative to the earth cutting blade of the machine. Fixed-color filters, color filter wheels, and / or linear array photodetectors are used to discriminate amongst the colors and to exactly sense the plane of intersection with the machine. The results of the sensing are either displayed to an equipment operator for manual adjustment of the blade to an automatic servo control system connected to hydraulically control the blade.

A safety device for regulating electrical power to a cooking appliance, comprising a control module having a power routing means, a power supply means, a load current sensing means for detecting a load current to the cooking appliance and a power relay means for controlling the electrical current to the cooking appliance, and a sensor module located adjacent to the cooking appliance for observation by an appliance operator and connected to the control module. The sensor module governs the production of the electrical current to the cooking appliance, and has a monitoring means, a distance sensing means, a timer means for showing elapsed cooking time, and a light emitting means. The monitoring means is responsive to outputs of the distance sensing means and includes a timer assembly programmed to a predetermined period of time for responding to the distance sensing means detecting the presence of the appliance operator.

A wheel chock apparatus includes a chock body for chocking a tire of a vehicle such as a semi-trailer prior to loading or unloading the trailer by a towmotor at a docking bay. When properly positioned, the chock body prevents movement of the vehicle away from the docking bay during the loading or unloading operation. Such movement poses a possible hazard to the cargo being loaded or unloaded, to the equipment performing the loading / unloading operations, and to the operator of such equipment. The chock body includes a sensor mounted on or embedded in the body, which is capable of detecting a properly chocked tire. The sensor is electrically connected to a microcontroller programmed to control an indicator, such as a visual light or audible alarm, that will alert an equipment operator on the docking bay as to whether the driver of the vehicle has properly chocked the tires.

Systems and methods for verifying the identity of a person operating a device are shown. In some representative embodiments, a method comprises authorizing a person to operate a device, continuously monitoring a biometric trait of a device operator, and using the monitored biometric trait of the device operator to verify, during operation of the device, whether the device operator is the authorized person. In other representative embodiments, a system comprises a biometric sensor associated with a device, and a continuous biometric monitoring (CBM) module coupled to the biometric sensor. The CBM module may be adapted to continuously acquire a one biometric sample from the device operator during operation of the device.

The invention discloses a virtual surgical instrument with 5-free degree force feedback, which belongs to the field medical training instruments. The invention includes a control detecting system and a mechanical structure which consists of a set of feet, a base board, two columns, a roof, four reduction gears, four reduction arc teeth, four retaining plates, two scissor handles, two parallel guide rods, a set of pull rods, an operating lever, a rolling bearing, an upper beam, a lower beam, a roller and a slide block and five drive actuators. The sensor collects input information of an interactive system such as pose and operating speed of an equipment handle, while drive actuators apply a variety of force and damping effect to an equipment operator. The virtual surgery device with 5-free degree force feedback can realize force feedback function with 5 free degrees, and the allowable human sports joints include the wrist joint, the elbow joint and the shoulder joint of the arm. With the virtual surgical instrument, the operator can perform virtual surgery actions of surgical scissors, a surgical clamp, a scalpel and a surgical abrasion drill, etc.

A wheel chock apparatus includes a chock body for chocking a tire of a vehicle such as a semi-trailer prior to loading or unloading the trailer by a towmotor at a docking bay. When properly positioned, the chock body prevents movement of the vehicle away from the docking bay during the loading or unloading operation. Such movement poses a possible hazard to the cargo being loaded or unloaded, to the equipment performing the loading / unloading operations, and to the operator of such equipment. The chock body includes a sensor mounted on or embedded in the body, which is capable of detecting a properly chocked tire. The sensor is electrically connected to a microcontroller programmed to control an indicator, such as a visual light or audible alarm, that will alert an equipment operator on the docking bay as to whether the driver of the vehicle has properly chocked the tires.

An apparatus for performing realistic motorcycle stunts while stationary includes a motorcycle, a restraint bracket, a road simulation means, a failsafe mechanism frame savers, an exhaust vent system, and safety protection. The restraint bracket comprises a bracket system for the attachment of the motorcycle to the apparatus. The road simulation means comprises an apparatus such as a 900 lb. Barrel that spins on two pivot points creating 100% balance under the rear wheel or front wheel of the motorcycle for “popping a wheelie” or performing an “endo” that can simulate actual road conditions. The failsafe mechanism frame savers comprises a series of sensors in electronic communication with the restraint bracket and road simulation means to ensure that the motorcycle does not roll over on one side or pitch back too far. The exhaust vent system comprises a tubular system in fluid communication with the motorcycle exhaust for venting exhaust gasses away from the proximity of the apparatus, the operator and any bystanders. The safety protection comprises general personal safety gear and a series of pads and nets located in areas around the apparatus to protect riders should they fall from the apparatus.

An optical based identification system that is easily deployable and can be used in broad daylight. Fluorescent semiconductor nanocrystals (quantum dots) that fluoresce at specific wavelengths are distributed in a suitable polymer. The resulting mixture can then be applied as paint or on an adhesive label for application to a portion of any equipment or member of a friendly unit. The system also has a corresponding detectional processing unit which may be mounted on ordnance or on any other equipment such as aircraft. The detection unit uses a laser, which when active, causes a laser beam to strike the paint or adhesive able applied to the friendly unit. This causes the quantum dots to fluoresce. The fluorescence of the quantum dots can be detected by the sensor portion of the detection / processing unit. The sensor portion then transmits the data generated by the detected fluorescence to a data processing portion detection / processing unit such as a corresponding signal to the equipment operator or, if the unit is mounted on ordnance that has been launched to the warhead to deactivate the warhead. To overcome the effects of broad daylight on an optical system, the quantum dots can be detected by the sensor portions of the detection / processing unit. The sensor portion then transmits the data generated by the detected fluorescence to a data processing portion which decodes the data. If the decoded data indicates a friendly unit, the detection / processing unit sends a corresponding signal to the equipment operator or, if the unit is mounted on ordnance that has been launched to the warhead to deactivate the warhead. To overcome the effects of broad daylight on an optical system, the quantum dots are engineered to fluoresce at wavelengths corresponding to the absorption lines of the solar spectrum, more commonly known as Fraunhofer lines.

In a system and method for assessing and modifying fatigue, an input device receives current work-rest pattern and / or sleep data from an individual. A data aggregation and processing platform combines the current work-rest pattern and / or sleep data with previous data related to the individual to generate a fatigue assessment result, a diagnostic assessment result, and a corrective intervention result. At least one output display outputs the fatigue assessment result, diagnostic assessment result and corrective intervention result in a user-readable format to a user. The user uses this information to revise the work-rest pattern to reduce or control future fatigue risk.

A motion sensing device is embedded in a firearm. A processor in the firearm senses the pattern of motion of the firearm, and on sensing a specified sequence of motions, the processor permits operation of the firearm. The operator would move the firearm in a prescribed fashion to “unlock the gun.” For example, the operator might trace out his or her initials with the muzzle of a pistol. Unlocking would stay valid until the operator released the gun handle or squeezed extra hard on the handle.

Airport ground traffic management methods, program products and systems provided for a plurality of tags or tag readers distributed throughout an airport each spaced greater than a tag reader scanning distance. A traveling apparatus brings a tag proximate to a tag reader and a traffic manager in communication with the tag reader receives tag data and determines an apparatus location characteristic and formats the characteristic into a presentation provided to an apparatus operator or an airport ground traffic controller. Campus regions are identified in response to an airport campus function characteristic, and an apparatus location is plotted within a region on a graphic representation. In response to location, speed, historic data, data from other read tag and the location of another apparatus, a determined course of action is determined including entering a movement directive into an auto-pilot component.

A motion sensing device is embedded in a firearm. A processor in the firearm senses the pattern of motion of the firearm, and on sensing a specified sequence of motions, the processor permits operation of the firearm. The operator would move the firearm in a prescribed fashion to “unlock the gun.” For example, the operator might trace out his or her initials with the muzzle of a pistol. Unlocking would stay valid until the operator released the gun handle or squeezed extra hard on the handle.

Methods and systems are disclosed for evaluating performances of a piece of equipment and equipment operator. One disclosed method includes sensing a plurality of operating parameters of the equipment. The method then includes resolving a plurality of segments the equipment is sequentially performing from the sensed operating parameters to provide a sequence of resolved segments. The method then includes resolving what application the equipment is performing based upon the sequence of resolved segments to provide at least one resolved application. The method then includes applying at least one metric to the resolved application to provide at least one applied application metric. Then, the method includes evaluating the performance of the equipment and operator using the applied application metric. Various systems for installation on existing work equipments or new work equipments such as loaders and excavators are also disclosed.

A method and apparatus for detecting the alertness of an equipment operator by displaying a moving icon, and asking the operator to track the movements of the icon, either by following it with the eyes in a head mounted display, or by following it with a finger on a touch screen. The operator's performance can be measured by tracking the gaze of the operator's eyes, or by tracking the operator's finger movements. The performance of the operator can be compared to that particular person's history of test results, or to a data base of test results of other operators. The characteristics of the icon can be varied, and distractions can be provided on the display or screen. Control of the display or screen, tracking of the operator's eyes or finger, and analysis of the test results, can all be performed by a computer.

The present invention provides automated control of aural irrigation by utilizing a process controller in connection with an irrigation supply unit and irrigation delivery unit. Sensors situated in the irrigation supply unit and irrigation delivery unit provide data feedback to the process controller enabling essentially instantaneous and precise control of operational parameters. In addition, data customized to individual patients as well as historical data for use in analysis is stored in and processed by the control processor to increase the accuracy and utility of the aural irrigation system. Further, patient response data (e.g., from an ENG sensor) is also input to the process controller, thereby enabling extremely fast and accurate test analysis with minimal effort by the device operator.

Methods and arrangements to shut down equipment in response to voice command(s) are disclosed. More specifically, embodiments interpret voice command(s) from a person in the vicinity of equipment and respond by deactivating equipment. In some embodiments, a voice interpreter couples with a receiver located at the equipment to determine whether a person has voiced a command to shut down the equipment. In further embodiments, persons in the vicinity of equipment have transmitters to re-transmit the command to the equipment. In other embodiments, a voice interpreter is provided to those persons. In several embodiments, voice command(s) may shut down more than one piece of equipment and, in some embodiments, logic identifies pieces of equipment to shut down based upon, e.g., the location of the person, other equipment that may be affected, or the like. Some embodiments are preprogrammed to recognize “STOP” or a panicked scream in the voice of equipment operators.

An electronic shocking device comprising a voltage drop detector which signals an integrated circuit to record the occurrence of a shock when the device voltage drops within a preset tolerance corresponding to a recommended level of shocking current. The voltage drop detector or integrated circuit may also activate a display to signal the device operator that the device is actually shocking a subject.

Methods and systems are disclosed for evaluating performances of a piece of equipment and equipment operator. One disclosed method includes sensing a plurality of operating parameters of the equipment. The method then includes resolving a plurality of segments the equipment is sequentially performing from the sensed operating parameters to provide a sequence of resolved segments. The method then includes resolving what application the equipment is performing based upon the sequence of resolved segments to provide at least one resolved application. The method then includes applying at least one metric to the resolved application to provide at least one applied application metric. Then, the method includes evaluating the performance of the equipment and operator using the applied application metric. Various systems for installation on existing work equipments or new work equipments such as loaders and excavators are also disclosed.