Abstract: The detection method includes generating a plurality of neural network models. Each model has as a training set a data set from a plurality of samples of a commodity of known origins. Each sample has been analyzed for a plurality of elemental concentrations. Each neural network model is presented for classification a test data set from a plurality of samples of a commodity of unknown origins. As with the training set, the samples have been analyzed for the same plurality of elemental concentrations. Next a bootstrap aggregating strategy is employed to combine the results of the classifications for each sample in the test data set made by each neural network model. Finally, a determination is made from the bootstrap aggregating strategy as to a final classification of each sample in the test data set. This final classification is indicative of the geographical origin of the commodity.

Abstract: A system and method for providing a predictive outcome in the form of a predictive best instruction for a therapeutic ophthalmic correction of a patient's vision defects. The predictive best instruction is derived from prospective therapeutic-outcome-influencing, new information that is analyzed in conjunction with optimized, historical therapeutic-outcome information. The instruction is preferably an optimized, custom, photoablative algorithm for driving a photoablative, excimer laser. The instruction can be provided on a fee basis.

Abstract: This invention specifies analyzers to be run in conjunction with computer estimation systems, which may be applied to performance monitoring (APM) services. A semi-automated analyzer may be used by a human analyst to periodically evaluate available historical data for establishing a desired set of input measurements, model parameters, and reporting criteria, collectively called configuration parameters, to be used by an estimation system. In addition, a fully automated analyzer may periodically and automatically reevaluate such configuration parameters and automatically reconfigure the estimation system accordingly.

Abstract: A gene expression programming genetic algorithm for performing symbolic regression is provided. The algorithm avoids expression bloating and over fitting by employing a fitness function that depends inversely on the mathematical expression complexity. Members of a population that are evolved by the algorithm are represented as a set arrays (e.g., in the form of a matrix) of indexes that reference operands and operators, thus facilitating selection, mutation, and cross over operations conducted in the course of evolving the population. The algorithm comprises a syntax checking part that may be applied to population members without their having to be converted to executable programs first. An object-oriented programming language data structure is providing for encapsulating basic data for each codon (e.g., operand, operator) used by the algorithm.

Abstract: A technique for enriching sparse data for machine learning techniques such as supervised artificial neural network includes receiving the sparse data and enriching the received data around a deviation of the mean of the received data using a predetermined distribution. The technique further includes outputting the enriched data for unbiased and increased performance during the machine learning.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a system and methodology facilitating automated audit recording and tracking of PLC-based interactions. A recording component is provided that interacts with an application that can change or alter one or more characteristics of PLC operations. The recording component can be client-based on the same or associated platform as the application or can be embedded within a control system component. When interactions have been recorded, a tracking component aggregates such interactions in a file or record stored in a local or remote database, wherein audit reports that document control interactions or changes can automatically be generated from such files. Recorded interactions can be stored in a substantially real time manner and include records of all interactions with a control system as opposed to merely saving a final program or resultant image of such interactions, thus facilitating a more controlled and secure auditing environment.

Abstract: A method for controlling a controlled process in response to an input signal and a disturbance signal includes modeling the controlled process in a process model; controlling the process model by a first controller; isolating the first controller from the disturbance signal so that the first controller may be designed for an optimal response to the input signal; driving the first controller by a first drive signal proportional to the difference between the input signal and a process model output signal; isolating a second controller from the input signal so that the second controller may be designed for an optimal response to the disturbance signal; and driving the second controller by a second drive signal proportional to difference between a process output signal and the process model output signal.

Abstract: The present invention relates generally to any plating solution and methods for monitoring its performance. More specifically, the present invention relates to plating bath and methods for monitoring its plating functionality based on chemometric analysis of voltammetric data obtained for these baths. More particularly, the method of the present invention relates to application of numerous chemometric techniques to describe quantitatively plating bath functionality in order to maintain its proper performance.

Abstract: A method for controlling at least one characteristic of a product of an industrial batch process. The method comprising the steps of creating a hierarchical knowledge tree describing the process. Following the creation of a knowledge tree a learning process occurs. This leads to the creation of a global model. During the execution of a batch process, the global model is applied to dynamically target subsequent phase parameters based on already executed phases.

Abstract: Method, system, converter and switch for communication in asynchronous transmission mode (ATM) between a source end station (13) and a destination end station (14) by means of information cells and data cells following the information cells, the information cells representing a signalling message containing an information element (IE) which contains an indication of a requested kind of traffic contract (ATC) for, in accordance therewith, processing the data cells.

Abstract: A method for specifying, executing and analyzing method sequences for the recognition of dispatch labels and form entries. In the specification phase, the method sequences are input in graphical form into a computer system as flowcharts with attributes and function details which define the influence of individual variables on the method sequence. Codes are then automatically generated from the flowcharts as an internal representation which is converted by a compiler into a loadable, executable module which is called for each processing step in the handling phase for recognizing the respective dispatch label or form entry. In the handling phase for recognition, information for describing the particular current sequence and the current values of the attributes is written to an attribute file for each processing step.

Abstract: A product-sum operation circuit includes a pulse width/digital conversion circuit (9) which converts a pulse signal having a pulse width representing an operand value into a digital signal, a sorting circuit (4) which outputs, in descending or ascending order of magnitude, a plurality of operand values Xi converted into digital signals by the pulse width/digital conversion circuit (9), and an accumulated sum circuit (1) which multiplies each operand value output from the sorting circuit (4) by a corresponding operand value Wi and calculates the accumulated sum of multiplication results. The pulse width/digital conversion circuit (9) includes a counter (10) which counts a clock and outputs a count value as a digital signal, and n trailing edge latch circuits (11-0–11-(n?1)) each of which latches a common count value output from the counter at the trailing edge of the input pulse signal.

Abstract: A text and imagery spatial correlator automatically relates the geographic locations where events referenced in text occur to those same geographic locations appearing in imagery. In the preferred embodiment, the system deploys adaptable, context-sensitive agents for the automatic interpretation of text, and the application of those agents to classify and geolocate textual references. The results are integrated with similar spatial references from imagery in a common data model, accessible by both spatial and non-spatial data correlation. The unique combination of elements enables the system to automatically develop spatial relationships between text and imagery. Although the invention finds utility in numerous applications, the system and method are particularly useful in correlating remote sensor imagery.

Abstract: In a robot apparatus and a control method therefor, firstly, partial or whole state space of a behavioral model is expanded or reduced, secondly, transition to a predetermined node in the behavioral model is described as transition to a virtual node and a node group to be allotted to the virtual node is sequentially changed, thirdly, the number of emotions and/or desires which are used for generating actions is gradually increased, and fourthly, an environment is evaluated to update each sensitivity corresponding to each emotion and desire, on the basis of the evaluated. In the robot apparatus and the character discriminating method for the robot apparatus, a pet robot is provided with: detecting means for detecting outputs from other pet robots; character discriminating means for discriminating characters of the pet robots on the basis of the result detected by the detecting means; and character changing means for changing the character on the basis of the result judged by the character discriminating means.

Abstract: A care management system in which the management of the administration of care for patients is automated. Hospital information systems are monitored and the information from those systems is used in verifying the administrations of care to patients. The care management system monitors ongoing administrations for progress and automatically updates records and provides alarms when necessary. The care management system is modular in nature but is fully integrated among its modules. Particular lists of data, such as the termination times of all ongoing infusions, provide hospital staff current information for increased accuracy and efficiency in planning. Features include the automatic provision of infusion parameters to pumps for accurate and efficient configuration of the pump, and providing an alarm when an unscheduled suspension of an infusion exceeds a predetermined length of time. A passive recognition system for identifying patients and care givers is provided.

Abstract: A neural network controller in parallel with a proportional-plus-integral (PI) feedback controller in a control system. At least one input port of the neural network for receiving an input signal representing a condition of a process is included. A first set of data is obtained that includes a plurality of output values of the neural network obtained during a training period thereof using a plurality of first inputs representing a plurality of conditions of the process. The process/plant condition signals generally define the process/plant, and may include one set-point as well as signals generated using measured systems variables/parameters. In operation, the neural network contributes to an output of the PI controller only upon detection of at least one triggering event, at which time a value of the first set of data corresponding with the condition deviation is added-in thus, contributing to the proportional-plus-integral feedback controller.

Abstract: A method and a system that enable the inspection of large envelopes and complex surfaces. This is accomplished by generating a rotation and translation transform which enables the process monitoring system to define the location of the product placed in a field of view of the process monitoring system, applying the transform to three dimensional CAD data defining the process being performed with respect to the product to provide transformed CAD data representative of three dimensional information in a two dimensional pattern of the process with respect to the process monitoring system, providing placement guidance signals at predetermined locations in relation to a region of the three dimensional product, and providing an inspection data gathering device having a handheld component and providing the predetermined locations.

Abstract: An input and feedback system for use with simulator devices immobilizes a portion of the user's body using a securement device which holds the immobilized portion in a fixed position. Pressure sensors are disposed upon the securement device to detect the force resulting from any attempted motion of the immobilized body part. Signals describing these forces are sent to a processing unit which applies this information to a simulated environment and provides sensory feedback to the user of the this simulated environment. Feedback is provided via vibrating elements which provide a sensation to the user corresponding to the motion of the user's muscles which occur in the simulated environment. Feedback is also provided via a screen which is disposed in front of the head of the user. Such immobilizing devices may be used to allow input and feedback based on the motion of various parts of the user's body, such as the head, arms, legs, and torso.

Abstract: A system is disclosed that provides a goal based learning system utilizing a rule based expert training system to provide a cognitive educational experience. The system provides the user with a simulated environment that presents a business opportunity to understand and solve optimally. Mistakes are noted and remedial educational material presented dynamically to build the necessary skills that a user requires for success in the business endeavor. The system utilizes an artificial intelligence engine driving individualized and dynamic feedback with synchronized video and graphics used to simulate real-world environment and interactions. Multiple “correct” answers are integrated into the learning system to allow individualized learning experiences in which navigation through the system is at a pace controlled by the learner. A website is linked to the presentation to provide context-sensitive information to assist the learner.

Abstract: An embodiment of the present invention provides a method to establish and maintain response time goals for selected business logic contained in components, which results in chosen high priority methods that respond consistently under load, enable smoother server side resource utilization, and increased scalability. The analyzing and delaying of certain processes in order to expedite processing of more important business processes helps establish optimization of multiple business processes.