Abstract: A system and method for visually warning a person of a dangerous condition related to the proximity of the person to a machine is provided. The system includes a transmitter system located on the machine, a locator for being carried by the person, an algorithm performed at the transmitter for determining coordinates of the locator relative to the transmitter system, data input into the controller defining one or more safety zones around the machine, a warning indicator for generating a signal when the locator enters any of the one or more safety zones, and a lamp associated with the person. The lamp may be a spot lamp for illuminating the area around the person, and it may also include one or more warning lamps associated with the warning indicator such that the one or more warning lamps are illuminated when the locator enters either of the safety zones.

Abstract: One embodiment describes a handheld, sterile input device to control one or more devices in the operating room. The embodiment's disposable component contains no electronics while its removable sensing module can be autoclaved and recharged for multiple procedures. Another embodiment describes a fully autoclaveable sterile input device with a detachable control assembly that enables thorough cleaning and disinfecting prior to steam sterilization in an autoclave.

Abstract: The disclosed invention primarily relates to methods for assisting and motivating persons with respect to various exercise and rehabilitation regimens they might undertake, mentally as well as physically. The invention also has potential application to for diagnosis and/or treatment of certain mental and physical disorders, and in other situations where a form of companionship may be provided the user. In addition the invention herein provides an enjoyable means of social interaction with others providing further motivation for physical and mental activity represented.

Abstract: The disclosed invention is generally in the field of control of appliances in the home, and in their networking and connectivity also with audio systems and internet sources and the integration of these elements in a connected manner. Preferred apparatus generally employs a video projection system and one or more TV cameras. Embodiments of the invention may be used to enhance the social interaction and enjoyment of persons in the kitchen and reduce the work of food preparation. The invention may be used in many rooms of the house, and contribute to the well being of seniors and others living therein.

Abstract: The disclosed invention is generally in the field of control of appliances in the home, and in their networking and connectivity also with audio systems and internet sources and the integration of these elements in a connected manner. Preferred apparatus generally employs a video projection system and one or more TV cameras. Embodiments of the invention may be used to enhance the social interaction and enjoyment of persons in the kitchen and reduce the work of food preparation. The invention may be used in many rooms of the house, and contribute to the well being of seniors and others living therein.

Abstract: This concerns my RTD invention disclosed in co pending applications, particularly but not necessarily for use in the “center stack” region of vehicle instrument panels. Disclosed are novel prism devices to shrink the size of the unit, while increasing resistance to vibration and condensation and providing easier assembly into the vehicle. Also disclosed are methods to improve the efficiency of such projector based systems for delivering display light to the driver of the vehicle, as well as to reduce noise caused by backscatter from the screen and control surface, or sunlight coming through the windshield. RTD versions for home or office use are also disclosed, including a “cushion computer”-like device meant primarily for use on one's lap and optionally having a reconfigurable keyboard. The device can also serve as a TV remote and perform other useful functions in the home, workplace, or car, and may serve as a useful interface accessory to expand the usability and enjoyment of mobile devices.

Abstract: A method for enhancing a well-being of a small child or baby utilizes at least one TV camera positioned to observe one or more points on the child or an object associated with the child. Signals from the TV camera are outputted to a computer, which analyzes the output signals to determine a position or movement of the child or child associated object. The determined position or movement is then compared to pre-programmed criteria in the computer to determine a correlation or importance, and thereby to provide data to the child.

Abstract: The disclosed invention primarily relates to methods for assisting and motivating persons with respect to various exercise and rehabilitation regimens they might undertake, mentally as well as physically. The invention also has potential application to for diagnosis and/or treatment of certain mental and physical disorders, and in other situations where a form of companionship may be provided the user. In addition the invention herein provides an enjoyable means of social interaction with others providing further motivation for physical and mental activity represented.

Abstract: This concerns my RTD invention disclosed in co pending applications, particularly but not necessarily for use in the “center stack” region of vehicle instrument panels. Disclosed are novel prism devices to shrink the size of the unit, while increasing resistance to vibration and condensation and providing easier assembly into the vehicle. Also disclosed are methods to improve the efficiency of such projector based systems for delivering display light to the driver of the vehicle, as well as to reduce noise caused by backscatter from the screen and control surface, or sunlight coming through the windshield. RTD versions for home or office use are also disclosed, including a ““cushion computer”-like device meant primarily for use on one's lap and optionally having a reconfigurable keyboard. The device can also serve as a TV remote and perform other useful functions in the home, workplace, or car, and may serve as a useful interface accessory to expand the usability and enjoyment of mobile devices.

Abstract: This case concerns applications of my Reconfigurable Tactile Display (RTD) invention, particularly illustrating method and apparatus in which there is no rigid connection between a projector/electro-optical sensor unit, and a screen and control surface unit used to display data and receive user touch or control inputs. In many embodiments, elimination of this rigid connection constraint allows applications where heretofore it has been difficult to provide workable or useful human interface systems. One example is in the headrest of an automobile, while another is a hospital bed where the invention provides a lightweight and very easy to clean input and viewing device for the patient.

Abstract: A method and apparatus are provided for controlling at least one function of a motor vehicle utilizing a member such as a touch pad or touch screen for receiving inputs of the driver thereof, which member is generally located on the dashboard of the vehicle and may be plastic and curvilinear and may contain actuation devices such as knobs, sliders and switches. A computer analyzes data inputted by the driver and an active tactile feedback signal may be provided to the touch member to signal the driver.

Abstract: Affordable methods and apparatus are disclosed for inputting position, attitude (orientation) or other object characteristic data to computers for the purpose of Computer Aided Design, Painting, Medicine, Teaching, Gaming, Toys, Simulations, Aids to the disabled, and internet or other experiences. Preferred embodiments of the invention utilize electro-optical sensors, and particularly TV Cameras, providing optically inputted data from specialized datum's on objects and/or natural features of objects. Objects can be both static and in motion, from which individual datum positions and movements can be derived, also with respect to other objects both fixed and moving. Real-time photogrammetry is preferably used to determine relationships of portions of one or more datums with respect to a plurality of cameras or a single camera processed by a conventional PC.

Abstract: Method and apparatus is disclosed to enhance the quality and usefulness of picture taking and other image acquisition for pleasure or business purposes. In a preferred embodiment, stereo photogrammetry is combined with digital image acquisition to acquire or store scenes and poses of interest, and/or to interact with the subject in order to provide data to or from a computer. This data may be utilized to maximize the effectiveness of photographic sessions, particularly digital still photography or cine-photography. A further embodiment discloses associated displays and teaching apparatus.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for interactive TV camera based games in which position or orientation of points on a player or of an object held by a player are determined and used to control a video display. Both single camera and stereo camera pair based embodiments are disclosed, preferably using stereo photogrammetry where multi-degree of freedom information is desired. Large video displays, preferably life-size may be used where utmost realism of the game experience is desired.

Abstract: For use in vehicles, it is desirable to have multi-functional (also known as reconfigurable) controls in the center stack portion of the instrument panel in order to best provide electronic and telematic functions to the driver. Disclosed are methods and apparatus to allow reconfiguration of classical controls such as knobs, sliders, and switches most familiar to the vast majority of the motoring public which may, if desired, utilize conventional flat panel displays (e.g., LCD based) and conventional readout electronics and switching. Also disclosed are projection based controls and new forms of rear seat entertainment controls and related apparatus for minivans and other vehicles.

Abstract: A spinal cage insert for a spinal cage is provided. The spinal cage insert has a shape suitable to be inserted into and fit closely in an interior of the spinal cage. The insert may comprise a member of the calcium phosphate family. The spinal cage insert may be made to a desired shape of porous ceramic, and it may include channels and/or surface features. Various shapes of filler pieces are also provided, wherein the filler pieces may be suitable to augment external regions of vertebrae which have been fused to each other so as to promote build-up of bone. The spinal cage insert and/or the filler pieces may be osteoconductive and may also contain osteoinductive substances or material. The articles may also contain cavities suitable for containing particles of demineralized bone matrix (DBM). Methods of use and methods of manufacturing the spinal cage insert and filler pieces are also provided.

Abstract: Disclosed herein are new forms of computer inputs particularly using TV Cameras, and providing affordable methods and apparatus for data communication with respect to people and computers using optically inputted information from specialized datum's on objects and/or natural features of objects. Particular embodiments capable of fast and reliable acquisition of features and tracking of motion are disclosed, together with numerous applications in various fields of endeavor.

Abstract: The invention is directed to shaped bone void filler pieces having defined porosity. In embodiments of the invention, the shaped bone void filler pieces are presented substantially as wedges, wafers, and axisymmetric bone void filler pieces. The bone void filler pieces further comprise surface and internal features such as recesses, channels, and/or voids. The bone void filler pieces optionally comprise demineralized bone matrix. The invention further is directed to methods of making and methods of using the bone void filler pieces. In another embodiment of the invention, the bone void filler pieces are produced using three dimensional printing methods. In yet another embodiment of the invention, the bone void filler pieces are manufactured with selected porogens integrated therein, which optionally are decomposed following production through a heat-mediated decomposition process, resulting in voids in the bone void filler spaces previously occupied by the porogen(s).

Abstract: Disclosed herein are new forms of computer inputs particularly using TV cameras, and providing affordable methods and apparatus for unique game play, such as rear projection devices for pinball and common board games using machine vision to determine the location of objects and/or features of objects. Particular embodiments employing fast and reliable acquisition and tracking of game related objects and their motion are disclosed, together with numerous applications. Also disclosed are related embodiments for instrumentation and control systems, such as those used in homes and cars.

Abstract: The invention is a continuation of earlier applications aimed at providing affordable methods and apparatus for inputting position, attitude (orientation) or other object characteristic data to computers for the purpose of controlling the display thereof. Preferred embodiments utilize electro-optical sensors such as TV cameras, to input data from objects and fingers, and/or other body parts of the user, to laptop, hand held and other computers used for Computer Aided learning, Gaming, 3D graphics, internet commerce and other applications.