Abstract: A feature whereby an end user of a navigation system that uses geographic data can easily report perceived errors or inaccuracies in the geographic data or other problems such as poor quality route calculation or guidance. The end user uses a user interface of the navigation system to indicate the perceived error, inaccuracy, or other problem. The navigation system includes a report program that operates in response to the end user's indication. The report program collects information indicating the error, inaccuracy, or other problem and sends a report including the collected information to a geographic database developer. The geographic database developer can use the information in the report to update a geographic database.

Abstract: A navigation system feature that provides information about bicycle traffic and/or travel by bicycle. According to one aspect of the disclosed subject matter, a navigation system uses a geographic database to provide navigation-related features, such as route calculation and route guidance, for both motorized vehicles and bicycles. When providing navigation-related features for travel by bicycle, the navigation system evaluates the road segments for suitability for travel by bicycle. According to another aspect of the disclosed subject matter, a navigation system in a motorized vehicle provides warnings about bicycle traffic around the motorized vehicle as the motorized vehicle is being driven. Using a geographic database that includes data about the locations of bicycle lanes and paths, the navigation system provides warnings as the motorized vehicle approaches a bicycle lane or path or otherwise is in proximity to a bicycle lane or path.

Abstract: A system for updating, enhancing and/or refining a geographic database. A geographic database includes data representing physical features in the geographic region, and, optionally, attributes of such features. The system includes a plurality of data collecting sensors. Each of the data collecting sensors is installed in a separate one of a plurality of vehicles each of which is capable of traveling on roads in a geographic region. Each of the data collecting sensors provides outputs indicative of one or more features in the geographic region as the vehicle in which it is installed travels on the roads in the geographic region. A computer program executes a feedback process on the geographic database using the outputs of the data collecting sensors. A first part of the feedback program compares the outputs of the data collecting sensors to the data identifying the physical features and provides results representative of the comparisons.

Abstract: A semi-disposable surgical stapling instrument providing for the replacement of staple cartridges, as needed, in the course of an operation, and for the optional provision of a knife to cut tissue between staple rows. Propulsion of the stapling unit may be powered and controlled from the back of the instrument by either hand, as desired, during a surgical procedure with minimal generation of frictional or distoring forces. Economic materials of construction may be employed.

Abstract: A semi-disposable surgical stapling instrument for the replacement of staple cartridges, as needed, in the course of an operation, and for the optional provision of a knife to cut tissue between staple rows. Propulsion of the stapling unit may be powered and controlled from the back of the instrument by either hand, as desired, during a surgical procedure with minimal generation of frictional or distorting forces. Economic materials of construction may be employed.