Map Or Terrain Model Patents (Class 434/150)
  • Patent number: 11903672
    Abstract: Interstitial brachytherapy is a cancer treatment in which radioactive material is placed directly in the target tissue of the affected site using an afterloader. The accuracy of this placement is monitored in real time using a urinary catheter that locates the radioactive material according to the radiation levels measured by sensors in the walls of the urinary catheter. A scintillator that is embedded in the walls of the urinary catheter produces light when irradiated by the radioactive material. This light is proportional to the level of radiation at each location. The light produced by each scintillator is carried through optical fibers and then converted to an electrical signal that is proportional to the light and the radiation level at each location. The radioactive material is located according to the plurality of electrical signals. This location can be used as quality control feedback to the afterloader.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 13, 2019
    Date of Patent: February 20, 2024
    Assignee: NU-RISE Lda
    Inventors: Luis Miguel da Conceição Moutinho, Joana Isabel Ferreira dos Santos Melo
  • Patent number: 11896844
    Abstract: Interstitial brachytherapy is a cancer treatment in which radioactive material is placed directly in the target tissue of the affected site using an afterloader. The accuracy of this placement is monitored in real time using a urinary catheter that locates the radioactive material according to the radiation levels measured by sensors in the walls of the urinary catheter. A scintillator that is embedded in the walls of the urinary catheter produces light when irradiated by the radioactive material. This light is proportional to the level of radiation at each location. The light produced by each scintillator is carried through optical fibers and then converted to an electrical signal that is proportional to the light and the radiation level at each location. The radioactive material is located according to the plurality of electrical signals. This location can be used as quality control feedback to the afterloader.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 21, 2021
    Date of Patent: February 13, 2024
    Inventors: Luis Miguel da Conceição Moutinho, Joana Isabel Ferreira dos Santos Melo
  • Patent number: 11494872
    Abstract: A computer system and related computer-implemented methods are disclosed. The system is programmed to simplify one or more digital maps for a geographical region by reducing their sizes while maintaining their physical appearances to the human eyes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 21, 2021
    Date of Patent: November 8, 2022
    Assignee: Risk Management Solutions, Inc.
    Inventors: Julien Brown, Valli Gadiyaram Venkata, Shruthi Bhat
  • Patent number: 11227510
    Abstract: A method and structure for for displaying an optimal tactile display, comprising transforming a CAD image into physical dimensions and creating an optimal tactile display reflective of the physical dimensions utilizing instructions from one or more microcontrollers. The optimal tactile display comprises an array display surface comprising a collection of controlled pins, a quantity of controlled pins propositional to a size of the physical dimensions, wherein each pin assembly of the controlled pins configured to be extended pins based upon the size of the physical dimensions, a plurality of planetary motors, each of the planetary motors associated with the controlled pins and configured to move the plurality of pins, a control unit to monitor the extension of the plurality of pins, and respective linear actuators configured to drive a respective motor shaft connected to a respective lead screw, each respective lead screw placed inside of each of respective threaded circular cross-section stoke tube.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 16, 2019
    Date of Patent: January 18, 2022
    Assignee: MEHRAN UNIVERSITY OF ENGINEERING AND TECHNOLOGY, JAMSHORO, PAKISTAN
    Inventors: Abdullah Memon, Attiya Baqai, Mudassir Kazmi
  • Patent number: 10546512
    Abstract: According to one embodiment, a learning support apparatus includes a display unit and a processor. The processor executes a process of reading out map data of a designated age from a plurality of map data corresponding to a plurality of ages, and outputting the read-out map data; and reading out, if a position on a map is designated on the output map data, historical information relating to the designated position and the designated age of the map from historical dictionary data, and outputting the read-out historical information.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 2, 2015
    Date of Patent: January 28, 2020
    Assignee: CASIO COMPUTER CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Kazuhisa Nakamura
  • Patent number: 10020608
    Abstract: A connector includes a connector insert comprising a first plurality of electrical contacts configured to electrically couple, in a mated position, with a second plurality of electrical contacts within a connector receptacle housing accessible via a first surface of a computing device; and a non-magnetic connector insert housing configured to mechanically couple, in the mated position, with a second surface of the computing device. A computing system includes a connector insert comprising a first plurality of electrical contacts; a computing device comprising a connector receptacle housing accessible via a first surface of the computing device, the connector receptacle housing comprising magnetic elements and a second plurality of electrical contacts configured to electrically couple, in a mated position, with the first plurality of electrical contacts in the connector insert; and a non-magnetic connector insert housing configured to mechanically couple, in the mated position, with a second surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 8, 2015
    Date of Patent: July 10, 2018
    Assignee: Gbatteries Energy Canada Inc.
    Inventors: Tiziano Cousineau, Mikhail Prokoptsov, Mykola Sherstyuk, Jonathon Lee, Tymofiy Sherstyuk
  • Patent number: 9672793
    Abstract: An object of the present invention is to provide a map display device and a map display method for displaying a plurality of map drawing pictures so as to improve convenience for a user. The map display device according to the present invention includes an input/display unit that receives input of user operation and displaying a first drawing object related to map information in a first drawing picture and a second drawing object related to map information in a second drawing picture; and a controller for controlling an overlapping state between the first drawing picture and a partial area of the second drawing picture in accordance with input of user operation received by the input/display unit and outputting, to the input/display unit, a picture in which the second drawing object masks the first drawing object in such an overlapped portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 12, 2012
    Date of Patent: June 6, 2017
    Assignee: Mitsubishi Electric Corporation
    Inventors: Hidekazu Arita, Mitsuo Shimotani
  • Patent number: 9132327
    Abstract: The present invention provides a basketball hoop including a frame having a cavity for releasably holding a plurality of backboard pieces therein to form a planar backboard, a basketball hoop pivotally attached to the frame, and a projector assembly coupled to the basketball hoop. When a slam-dunk force is applied to the basketball hoop, the force rotates the hoop downward, causing a projector to pivotally swing forward. The projector applies an ejection force to a rear surface of the plurality of backboard pieces ejecting the backboard pieces from the cavity of the frame, simulating a shattering backboard caused by a slam-dunk. The backboard pieces are preferably fabricated of a safety material, such as foam, rubber, and the like. The arrangement pattern of the backboard pieces may be applied upon the frame to aid in reassembly thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 14, 2013
    Date of Patent: September 15, 2015
    Inventor: James A. Roberts
  • Publication number: 20150079552
    Abstract: A spherical body map having one hemisphere centered on any given point of the body and another hemisphere centered on its antipodal point is provided in the Azimuthal Equidistant Hemispheric projection. Both hemispheres are placed side by side so to show a great circle line passing through the center and antipodal points straight. This map can show correct directions and distances from the center point to any other points on the body with realistic and recognizable shapes, even for remote continents. It can also demonstrate three important properties of this projection: directions from points along a great circle to a center point do not show the exact opposite of directions from the center point to the points; distances between any two points, not only from the center point, along a great circle line are correct; and the map is convertible from flat to three-dimensional forms.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 16, 2013
    Publication date: March 19, 2015
    Inventor: Yasuo Shinozuka
  • Patent number: 8628088
    Abstract: A puzzle kit for assembly into a three dimensional representation of a geographic region includes first pieces that form a first layer, second pieces that form a second layer on top of the first layer, and structure pieces mounted on the first and/or second layers. The first and second layers can include retaining elements for retaining the structure pieces. The retaining elements can take the form of voids. The first layer can include image elements visible through the voids of the second layer, and the image elements can include indicia to match the voids with the structure pieces. The first pieces can include anchoring pieces that are elevated and interlock with the second layer. The structure pieces can be sequentially assembled on the first and/or second layers according to an index. The assembled puzzle can represent a city, and the structure pieces can represent buildings within the city.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 17, 2010
    Date of Patent: January 14, 2014
    Assignee: 2307450 Ontario Limited
    Inventor: Shaun Sunt Sakdinan
  • Publication number: 20130317743
    Abstract: A map display device includes a map data acquiring unit 21 for acquiring map data, an HOV lane determining unit 26 for determining whether or not HOV lane information showing that an HOV lane exists is included in link data defining roads included in the map data acquired by the map data acquiring unit, a display processing unit 28 for, when the HOV lane determining unit determines that HOV lane information is included in the link data, creating display data showing that a symbol showing an HOV lane is superimposed on a road formed by the link data including the HOV lane information, and a display unit 6 for displaying a map on the basis of the display data created by the display processing unit.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 2, 2013
    Publication date: November 28, 2013
    Applicant: MITSUBISHI ELECTRIC CORPORATION
    Inventors: Kumi NISHIBASHI, Takashi IRIE
  • Publication number: 20130309638
    Abstract: A comprehensive geography curriculum, game, and study aid geared toward home-school environments. The invention includes (a) an oversized map surface playing area containing unlabeled, pictorial representations of geographical regions or geological features including, without limitation, Africa, Antarctica, Asia, Australia-Oceania, Canada, Europe, North America, South America, the United States, and/or significant geological world features; (b) a plurality of labeled tokens which cross-reference with aforementioned regions or features represented on the map surface playing area; (b) a plurality of question and answer cards pertaining to historical data and current events of aforementioned regions or features represented on the map surface playing area; and (c) a booklet containing advanced information pertaining to regions or features represented on the map surface playing area.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 13, 2013
    Publication date: November 21, 2013
    Inventor: Tabby Luquette Self
  • Patent number: 8414300
    Abstract: There is provided a foldable product, such as a map, which is formed from a sheet (10) of material such as stiff paper. The sheet (10) has predetermined folded and unfolded configurations by virtue of a predetermined pattern of fold lines (12, 13, 14, 19, 20, 23, 24). The fold lines are provided partly by creases and partly by lines of perforations depending on the stress in a particular area during folding and unfolding.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 14, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 9, 2013
    Assignee: Compass Maps Limited
    Inventor: Derek Dacey
  • Publication number: 20130065203
    Abstract: A multilayer sheeting with a 3D floating image. The sheeting includes a layer of microlenses and a multilayer material disposed adjacent the microlenses. The multilayer material includes multiple adjacent layers having X-Y planar positions and a Z-direction orthogonal to the X-Y planar positions. Individual images, which contrast with the material, are formed in the multilayer material and include connected elements at interfaces between the multiple layers and conjunction elements between connected elements. The connected elements are registered in the Z-direction at the X-Y planar positions in the interfaces between the layers. The individual images collectively form a composite 3D image that appears to the unaided eye to be three-dimensional and floating above or below the sheeting, or both.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 12, 2011
    Publication date: March 14, 2013
    Inventors: Jiro Hattori, Yoichiro Mizumoto
  • Patent number: 8094043
    Abstract: One embodiment is to visually direct the focus of the user to specific road segments on a road map surface by the use of colors or symbols overlaid on certain roadways shown on a road map. In numerous embodiments, it will provide the user with a quick visual reference to the location of certain road segments which meet the map designers pre-requisite criteria which would vary for different types of maps, and which would visually indicate different levels of enjoyment that could be anticipated or expected along these certain road segments by the use of various colors or shades of colors, or the use of symbols of various sizes such as dots or stars. Our application would respond to the unfulfilled needs of certain segments of the travelling public such as motorcyclists and RVers, their desire often for enjoyment more than expediency.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 27, 2009
    Date of Patent: January 10, 2012
    Inventors: Scott Calhoun, Court Barlin Butler, Joyce Ann Butler
  • Publication number: 20110306022
    Abstract: The invention shows the method to create a high accuracy topographical scale model for the purpose of science by using multi layered/laminated materials. The invention is based on and involves the following steps: The geometry and the data of terrain are measured, collected, and recorded; The data is entered into a computer and design components are added, if needed; Based on these data a three-dimensional surface or solid is created; A block of multi-layered/laminated materials made of a combination of veneers, or machinable dividers/layers, laminated one on the top of another, is constructed. Based on the three-dimensional surface or solid, a program product for a C.N.C machine is generated; Based on the program product, the C.N.C. machine cuts/removes the excess material from the block of multi-layered materials. The three-dimensional surface, contour lines, elevations, outlines, and edges are then exposed automatically and are easy visually measurable.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 11, 2010
    Publication date: December 15, 2011
    Inventors: Adam Wcislo, Zofia Anna Sawkiewicz
  • Patent number: 8043094
    Abstract: A portable model and methods for simulating water treatment processes are presented. Included are a body of untreated drinking water, simulated sources of wastewater, and simulated drinking and wastewater treatment plants. In the simulated drinking water treatment plant, water is treated and stored for distribution though a simulated pipeline system. In the simulated wastewater treatment plant, simulated wastewater is filtered, settled, clarified, disinfected and discharged. The simulated wastewater may be transferred to the simulated wastewater treatment plant through a simulated sewage pipeline network. Simulated biosolids as a result of the wastewater treatment process may be stored or applied to land. The model may also simulate a storm drain system that diverts storm water to a water source or to the wastewater treatment plant. The materials used to simulate the various aspects and components are preferably non-toxic, non-poisonous and biodegradable in order to facilitate use with children and clean up.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 10, 2006
    Date of Patent: October 25, 2011
    Assignee: JT & A, Inc.
    Inventor: Carlene T. Bahler
  • Publication number: 20110106420
    Abstract: A map display device includes a map data acquiring unit 21 for acquiring map data, an HOV lane determining unit 26 for determining whether or not HOV lane information showing that an HOV lane exists is included in link data defining roads included in the map data acquired by the map data acquiring unit, a display processing unit 28 for, when the HOV lane determining unit determines that HOV lane information is included in the link data, creating display data showing that a symbol showing an HOV lane is superimposed on a road formed by the link data including the HOV lane information, and a display unit 6 for displaying a map on the basis of the display data created by the display processing unit.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 3, 2009
    Publication date: May 5, 2011
    Inventors: Kumi Nishibashi, Takashi Irie
  • Publication number: 20100184008
    Abstract: A weatherproof topographical map having a 3D image effect printed on a weatherproof flexible fabric allowing the production of a map which is easy to use and store without the tendency to lose detail along fold lines. And a method of making a weatherproof topographical map having a 3D image effect particularly suitable for use by outdoor users having weatherproof/waterproof features as well as 3D rendering of elevations and easy to find and read information.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 16, 2009
    Publication date: July 22, 2010
    Inventors: Derek Fergus, Will Macia, Wade Fergus
  • Publication number: 20100159424
    Abstract: An article including a series of different cereal box sleeves dimensioned to fit over a cereal box, each of the sleeves including content printed or otherwise formed thereon, wherein the content is a subject unrelated to cereal contained in the cereal box, wherein a common theme connects the content of the sleeves in the series of the sleeves.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 9, 2010
    Publication date: June 24, 2010
    Inventor: Moshe Kugel
  • Patent number: 7686617
    Abstract: The invention shows the method to create a high accuracy topographical scale model for the purpose of science by using multi layered/laminated materials. The invention is based on and involves the following steps: The geometry and the data of terrain are measured, collected, and recorded; The data is entered into a computer and design components are added, if needed; Based on these data a three-dimensional surface is created; A block of multi-layered/laminated materials made of a combination of veneers, or machinable dividers/layers, laminated one on the top of another, is constructed. Based on the three-dimensional surface, a program for a C.N.C machine is generated; Based on the program, the C.N.C. machine cuts/removes the excess material from the block of multi-layered materials. The three-dimensional surface, contour lines, elevations, outlines, and edges are then exposed automatically and are easy visually measurable.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 6, 2004
    Date of Patent: March 30, 2010
    Inventors: Adam Wcislo, Zofia Anna Sawkiewicz
  • Patent number: 7686616
    Abstract: A cartographic device which can be converted from a globe to a map and vice versa. The marked surface layer of a globe is made removable and usable as a corresponding map. Conversion between the globe and map configurations is reversible and can be repeated indefinitely.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 24, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 30, 2010
    Inventor: William Larry Cloud
  • Patent number: 7654826
    Abstract: A three-dimensional cartographic computer user interface system for enhancing geo-spatial comprehension and geographic information system user interactivity is disclosed. The system has at least one computer and operating system, user input means, and at least one positionable projection display means, including storage, retrieval and playback control means for the projected content. The system has user input device software responsive to input from at least one user input device which is operable on a three-dimensional user interface surface of the system, and software for the display and control of cartographic-related projected imagery, and software for the display and control of three-dimensional user interface-related content superimposed within the cartographic-related projected imagery.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 4, 2005
    Date of Patent: February 2, 2010
    Assignee: Solid Terrain Modeling
    Inventors: Lawrence Q. Faulkner, Mark E. Fisher, Justin Luton
  • Patent number: 7647181
    Abstract: A method and system for generating land cover classifications is provided. Embodiments of the invention are directed toward a method in a computing environment for determining land cover classification that includes identifying a geographic unit and determining a human presence datum corresponding to the geographic unit. The method can further include determining an environmental datum corresponding to the geographic unit and/or a cultural datum corresponding to the geographic unit. The method can still further include assigning a land cover classification to the geographic unit based on at least the human presence datum and (a) the environmental datum, (b) the cultural datum, or (c) both (a) and (b). In certain embodiments, the method can still further include determining a geographic region corresponding to the geographic unit and assigning a land cover classification to the geographic unit based on at least the geographic region.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 12, 2005
    Date of Patent: January 12, 2010
    Assignee: Microsoft Corporation
    Inventor: Eugene J. Vaatveit
  • Patent number: 7611602
    Abstract: A method of fabricating maps and other objects presenting multiple sets of spatially related information. Spatial alignment data, such as geographical boundaries is selected. First and second images are created by aligning or mapping first and second sets of information to the spatial alignment data. A lens sheet or lenticular material is fabricated, and based on the lens sheet configuration, the first and second images are combined to create an interlaced image including alternating strips from the first and second images. The interlaced image is printed on a substrate or the reverse side of the lens sheet, and the substrate is bonded to the lens sheet such that the interlaced image is sandwiched between the lens sheet and substrate. The first image is visible when the map or object is in a first position and the second image when the map or object is rotated to a second position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 12, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 3, 2009
    Assignee: Urban Mapping, LLC
    Inventor: Ian H. White
  • Patent number: 7520508
    Abstract: A game includes a board displaying a map showing cartographic outlines of the U.S. states, and optionally each state's capital. The game includes at least one deck of cards including a respective card for each state shown on the game board. Geography playing cards include an image and/or identifying text for each state. Electoral college playing cards are similar but further include text identifying each state's number of electoral college votes, and optionally, capital. The game may further include a state capital overlay obscuring or providing state capital names, and/or a historical map overlay for showing as available only the states of the union in an associated election year. Historical playing cards, similar to the electoral college or geography playing cards, corresponding to each historical map overlay may also be provided. A workbook including stimulating topical questions may also be provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 18, 2006
    Date of Patent: April 21, 2009
    Assignee: Bright Red Ideas, LLC
    Inventor: Cathy Redd
  • Patent number: 7440591
    Abstract: A method of identifying errors in information describing terrain features is disclosed. According to the method, a first set of data is obtained which describes an area of terrain. The first set of data has a first type of error. A second set of data is obtained which describes the area of terrain. The second set of data has a second type of error. The second type of error is characteristically different from the first type of error. A subset of the first set of data corresponding to a first portion of the area of terrain is compared with a subset of the second set of data corresponding to the first portion to identify information not present in one of the first and second sets of data.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 12, 2003
    Date of Patent: October 21, 2008
    Assignee: Rockwell Collins, Inc.
    Inventor: Patrick D. McCusker
  • Publication number: 20080076097
    Abstract: A kit for manipulating regional spatial data includes at least one package for storing a set of materials of said kit; and a set of materials which includes, a map puzzle including a plurality of interlocking jigsaw pieces of predetermined shapes each representing a geopolitical feature, wherein said interlocking pieces are able to be assembled to form a graphic image of a geographic area; a plurality of reusable sticker icons representing persons, places or things, which are releasably attachable to the graphic image of the geographic area to identify the location of the geographic feature; a plurality of reusable text labels each expressing a place name and which are releasably attachable to the graphic image of the geographical area to identify the location of the place; lesson plan(s); and a set of instructions.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 19, 2007
    Publication date: March 27, 2008
    Inventor: John M. Sherin
  • Patent number: 7261564
    Abstract: A navigational aide in the form of a physical model that may be integrated with conventional expedition equipment. The preferred embodiment comprises a hiking staff (5, 6) containing 2-D map data (3) and or 3-D topographical representations (1, 2) corresponding with specific geographic regions and or features. The 3-D surfaces may be sculpted about and along the model. Alternately, cross-sectional elevation profiles of routes may be presented in the form of a 3-D sculpted grooves or flutes along, about, and or around the shaft. A variety of configurations are presented for the purpose of maximizing the effective sculptable areas or edges, and to provide a shrouding effect for the protruding peaks that would otherwise be vulnerable to deformation and uncomfortable to grip. The 3-D elevations may be exaggerated to visually accentuate changes in elevation. Features such as trails may be represented as grooves to facilitate marking progress and position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 4, 2002
    Date of Patent: August 28, 2007
    Inventor: Daniel P. Sutula, Jr.
  • Patent number: 7065886
    Abstract: A system for localizing a zone in space in relation to a predetermined point on a surface, wherein the surface is divided into nine zones of first rank obtained by dividing the surface into three parts in two different directions, a predetermined respective number from 1 to 9 is attributed to each of the zones of first rank, each zone of rank n, n being a whole number greater than or equal to 1, is divided successively into zones of rank n+1, a predetermined respective number from 1 to 9 being attributed to each of the zones of rank n+1 of a zone of inferior rank n, and a zone of rank n is position referenced by a zone reference sequence having n digits containing the number of the zone, the respective numbers of all of the zones of inferior rank, 1 to n?1, in which the zone is located, including means for determining the position reference sequence of a zone of rank n in which is located a zone to be localized in the surface, n being the maximum value such that the surface of the zone to be localized is incl
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 3, 2003
    Date of Patent: June 27, 2006
    Inventor: Patrick Ségur
  • Patent number: 6879702
    Abstract: The present invention generates a digital image geographical special interest guide. According to one aspect, digital images are processed and associated with a category on a geographical map. A digital image geographical special interest guide corresponding to a category is generated. The digital image geographical special interest guide containing the associated digital images is provided to a user. A digital image geographical special interest guide aids people in easily locating detailed information on any of the available categories.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 13, 2000
    Date of Patent: April 12, 2005
    Assignees: Sony Corporation, Sony Electronics Inc.
    Inventors: Clay Harvey Fisher, Neal Jacob Manowitz, Robert Jay Sato
  • Publication number: 20040251678
    Abstract: There is provided a foldable product, such as a map, which is formed from a sheet (10) of material such as stiff paper. The sheet (10) has predetemlined folded and unfolded configurations by virtue of a predetermined pattern of fold lines (12, 13, 14, 19, 20, 23, 24). The fold lines are provided partly by creases and partly by lines of perforations depending on the stress in a particular area during folding and unfolding.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 12, 2004
    Publication date: December 16, 2004
    Inventor: Derek Dacey
  • Patent number: 6699042
    Abstract: A method of mapping the going conditions for a racecourse comprises surveying the racecourse soil conductivity over the course using soil conductivity measuring means and mapping the conductivity data produced by the conductivity measuring means according to the locations at which the conductivity data were obtained, so as to produce a map of the racecourse showing variations in soil conductivity. The racecourse is then sectioned along its length so as to produce a series of zones, wherein the variations shown in the soil conductivity map are utilized in choosing the sizes of the zones, the going condition in each zone is determined and a map of the racecourse displaying the going conditions along the racecourse is produced.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 25, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 2, 2004
    Assignee: Turftrax Group Limited
    Inventors: John Justin Smith, Martin Peters
  • Publication number: 20030180695
    Abstract: The subject invention is a centered on an improved base structure with detachable container means as used by young children for educational purposes, such container means having a depressed area in the middle portion of such depressed area, with the upper portion of the frame being flanked by a plurality of upwardly extending support arms extending upwardly from the upper outer perimeter of the base member, with the upper portion of the upper support arms having holding means thereon to securely hold upright and additionally support laterally a portion of a basin member such that the basin is held securely within the restricted area of the frame structure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 21, 2002
    Publication date: September 25, 2003
    Inventor: William H. Peters
  • Publication number: 20030157466
    Abstract: A 3-dimensional map for ski areas or other such regions is provided. The map is preferably constructed of flexible latex rubber or other suitable material with “memory” that may be repeatedly unfolded or unrolled and expanded to display the contours of the area and folded up again for convenient storage and/or transport when not in use. The surface of the map is painted, printed or otherwise formed to show pertinent information to visitors of an area. The flexible map may also be embodied in hat or cap designs as a novelty.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 9, 2003
    Publication date: August 21, 2003
    Inventor: Robert B. Campbell
  • Patent number: 6604627
    Abstract: A device is provided in the form of a map of the United States to display a set of commemorative coins in relation to state geographic regions associated with the coins. A color-coded indexing system is set forth in a chart which associates the date of issuance of the coins, the chronology of issuance according to order of statehood, and the geographic state region represented by the coin.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 3, 2001
    Date of Patent: August 12, 2003
    Assignee: New York Mint, Ltd.
    Inventor: Karen Kennedy
  • Patent number: 6330942
    Abstract: A coin collecting card and information relating thereto for removably holding a coin and relating information pertinent to that coin. The coin collecting card and information relating thereto includes a front side, a back side and a peripheral edge. First indicia are located on the front side of the plate. The first indicia indicate a map of a region representing the coin, or a place of origin of the coin. A well, or slot, extends into the front side of the plate. The well has a shape adapted for receiving a respective coin from the region represented by the first indicia.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 12, 2000
    Date of Patent: December 18, 2001
    Inventor: June K. Raymond
  • Publication number: 20010027456
    Abstract: A method and system 5 for generating a three-dimensional world model for simulated real terrain optimized for a personal computer. Terrain data and other environmental data are acquired from at least one of a plurality of digital data sources 9 through an acquisition step 20 and the acquired data are processed in a transformation and formatting step 25 to construct a predetermined intermediate database format 30, from which intermediate database, in response to a user query 40, introduced through a query interface program 45 that is visible on a personal computer monitor 11, the data are further extracted, processed and composited in a formatting step 32 to create a three-dimensional world model file 35. The 3-D world model format 35 is optimized for a particular imaging system, preferably a browser that renders standard Virtual Reality Modeling Language 2.0 specification files, that allows the 3-D model to be viewed and navigated on the computer monitor 11.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 12, 2001
    Publication date: October 4, 2001
    Applicant: Geosoftware,Inc.
    Inventors: J. Justin Lancaster, Christopher J. Bell
  • Patent number: 6264025
    Abstract: A device is provided in the form of a map of the United States to display a set of commemorative coins in relation to state geographic regions associated with the coins. A color-coded indexing system is set forth in a chart which associates the date of issuance of the coins, the chronology of issuance according to order of statehood, and the geographic state region represented by the coin.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 5, 2000
    Date of Patent: July 24, 2001
    Assignee: New York Mint, Ltd.
    Inventor: Karen Kennedy
  • Patent number: 6189933
    Abstract: A large rectangular map, or chart, that is reduced to small and uniformly-sized display areas, in a top half section and bottom half section, having leaves in each section for easy directional leafing (right to left, left to right, up tab, down tab) to all selected display areas. There is no folding or unfolding. This leafing format is made possible by simply making three folds horizontally (inward, outward, inward), cutting a slit along the horizontal centerline between the right and left edge panels, fanfolding lengthwise into an odd number of vertical creases that form a vertical strip of the eight right edge panels, making a single horizontal fold of this strip into a tab, and abutting the four corner panels to create the base map paging format of four panel display pages. A foldable cover is required to anchor the format for permanency, stability, and storage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 4, 2000
    Date of Patent: February 20, 2001
    Inventor: Lyle Ely Felderman
  • Patent number: 6186795
    Abstract: A visually reinforced learning and memorization system combines the coordination of alphabetic mnemonics, number integers and colors to provide the user with multiple mechanisms for learning memorizing information. The memorization system is particularly suited for memorizing geographic information, which can be surveyed using a diamond-based coordinate system that can be subdivided to increasingly small points.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 25, 1999
    Date of Patent: February 13, 2001
    Inventor: Henry Allen Wilson
  • Patent number: 6164970
    Abstract: A selectively transparent map system, for use by a driver in an automobile having an automobile windshield, comprising a map having map indicia printed thereupon. The map is selectively transparent so that when the map is held against the windshield in front of the driver, and the map is viewed at a first angle, the driver can read the map indicia while simultaneously watching the road by looking directly through the map. However, when the map is viewed at a second angle, the driver can read the map indicia, but cannot see through the map. The map thus includes a selective transparency means which preferably includes a grating having a plurality of blocking members which allow light and images to be easily transmitted through the map at the first angle, but substantially block light from being transmitted through the map at the second angle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 2, 1998
    Date of Patent: December 26, 2000
    Inventor: Sergiy Mazuryk
  • Patent number: 6155834
    Abstract: The invention includes a system to teach a student to sight read using a computer. The term "Sight read" means to instantly recognize words without having to sound them out or go through other processes such as explaining the definition of the word. The invention utilizes a computer to systematically and continuously adjust the requirements for word perception and recognition based on characteristics and ongoing responses of the individual student in a way that increases the speed and accuracy of word recognition. The inventive method utilizes three main types of interactive process types including (1) Choose from list, (2) Fill in letter blank, and (3) Determine Sequence. Each interactive process type includes three interactive processes in which a target word is communicated by showing only, saying only, and/or showing and saying the target word.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 27, 1997
    Date of Patent: December 5, 2000
    Inventor: Cecil A. New, III
  • Patent number: 6129386
    Abstract: An apparatus for collecting and cataloging data, the apparatus comprising a base, an accordion-pleated folded strip mounted with the base and defining sections each having a major surface for the recordation of information thereon, each section hingedly foldable into an overlying position relative an adjoining section to allow a selective upward exposure of a pair of adjoining major surfaces of selected adjacent sections, and an indexing element having a first major surface and a second major surface and mounted with the base for hinged movement between first and second positions, the first position of the indexing element to align with a one of the pair of adjoining major surfaces of selected adjacent sections and the second position of the indexing element to align with another one of the pair adjoining major surfaces of selected adjacent sections.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 28, 1997
    Date of Patent: October 10, 2000
    Inventor: George M. Brata
  • Patent number: 6039571
    Abstract: A terrarium representative of a geographical area is provided including a base and an enclosed housing constructed from a transparent material. Such housing includes a planar front face, a planar rear face and a periphery formed therebetween taking the shape of a border of the geographical area. The housing has an interior space with soil, rocks, and foliage situated therein which are commonly found in the geographical area.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 11, 1998
    Date of Patent: March 21, 2000
    Inventor: Lillie Hughes
  • Patent number: 5906491
    Abstract: A geography teaching apparatus has two working surfaces, such as on opposing sides of a substrate such as paper. The first working surface contains graphical images representing the outlines of countries, such as in a map of a continent. The second or opposing working surface contains graphical images which are identical in size and shape to the graphical images on the first surface, and are positioned in relative positions on the second surface which are identical to the relative positions of the graphical images on the first surface. The second surface also contains text such as the names of each of the countries shown and other information about the countries. Students study the second surface in an attempt to learn the textual information, and then turn the apparatus over to the first working surface and attempt to write down all the information they studied. The relatedness of the visual images reinforce the teaching process and improve memory retention.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 26, 1997
    Date of Patent: May 25, 1999
    Inventor: Robert J. Berman
  • Patent number: 5868429
    Abstract: A laminated map or other product having a plurality of adjacent rectangular panels, formed of a paperboard sheet and a pair of transparent sheets covering the paperboard sheet, with the transparent sheets joining all of the paperboard sheets into an integrated product. The panels are arranged in at least two rows of plural panels and a plurality of columns of panels. When the pairs of panels in the columns are accordion-folded in the direction of the columns, and are then folded to cause the panels of one row to overlie the panels of the other row, the product will fold into a compact stack without substantial resistance to movement into that configuration and will be substantially flat, and when the panels are temporarily folded into single stack compact random arrays, those arrays will be compact and substantially flat. A method of making a multidirectional, multiple fold laminated product is also described.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 13, 1997
    Date of Patent: February 9, 1999
    Assignee: Rand McNally & Company
    Inventors: David P. Raymond, Paul R. Stensvaag, Kenneth R. Bogner
  • Patent number: 5865628
    Abstract: A storm mapping system is used to track the location, path, and strength of a storm. The system is comprised of an erasable marker-board surface having a map and a chart permanently immobilized thereon. The map is of any desired geographic region and may have additional map features, such as longitude and latitude lines, distance scale, hurricane category chart, and geographic names thereon. The chart is a table member having columns for date, time, latitude & longitude, wind speed, wind direction, and barometric pressure, in inches of mercury, millibars or both. At least one token representing a storm, is removably attachable to the map in any desired fashion. The token is attached to the map in order to visually locate a storm thereon and a path line may be drawn on the map for historical tracking of the storm. Information about the storm is entered into the chart at desired time intervals.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 28, 1997
    Date of Patent: February 2, 1999
    Inventor: Peggy A. Burns
  • Patent number: 5857066
    Abstract: A method and system of producing a 3D perspective representation of a hiking trail or the like in two dimensions. Manually-obtained first data indicative of a heading and distance of each approximately linear segment of the course of travel are correlated with second data indicative of a topography of an underlying geographical region. A representation of the course of travel as viewed from perspective may then be selectively produced utilizing the correlated data. Linear segments of the course of travel are shown in this view situated at a relative angle with respect to adjacent linear segments, the angle representative of a direction and slope thereof. As a result, changes in elevation of the course of travel are continuously shown on the perspective two-dimensional representation to facilitate visual appreciation of the difficulty thereof by the traveller.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 30, 1994
    Date of Patent: January 5, 1999
    Assignee: Naturaland Trust
    Inventors: C. Thomas Wyche, James B. Conlon
  • Patent number: 5772441
    Abstract: A visually reinforced learning and memorization system combines the coordination of alphabetic mnemonics, number integers and colors to provide the user with multiple mechanisms for learning memorizing information. The memorization system is particularly suited for memorizing geographic information, which can be surveyed using a diamond-based coordinate system that can be subdivided to increasingly small points.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 24, 1996
    Date of Patent: June 30, 1998
    Inventor: Henry Allen Wilson