Abstract: A simulator system includes functionality for dynamically tracking position and orientation of one or more simulation participants and objects as they move throughout a capture volume using an array of motion capture video cameras so that two- or three-dimensional (“2D” and “3D”) views of a virtual environment, which are unique to each participant's point of view, may be generated by the system and rendered on a display. In 3D and/or multi-participant usage scenarios, the unique views are decoded from a commonly utilized display by equipping the participants with glasses that are configured with shutter lenses, polarizing filters, or a combination of both. The object tracking supports the provision and use of an optical signaling capability that may be added to an object so that manipulation of the object by the participant can be communicated to the simulator system over the optical communications path that is enabled by use of the video cameras.

Abstract: An electrical switch and a method of generating an electrical switch output signal. An electric switch senses both pressure placed upon the switch's surface and the contact of the object exerting the pressure on the switch. When both conditions exist, the switch is activated. The electrical switch may employ a piezoelectric element to recognize the application of pressure, a capacitive sensing circuit to recognize the presence of an object applying the pressure, and a microcontroller circuit to control output switch circuity upon satisfaction of both conditions precedent. The electrical switch can be configured to provide a continuous output signal for the duration that the switch is pressed after the conditions are satisfied or to switch between open and closed states each time the switch is pressed after the conditions are satisfied.

Abstract: An electrical switch and a method of generating an electrical switch output signal. An electric switch senses both pressure placed upon the switch's surface and the contact of the object exerting the pressure on the switch. When both conditions exist, the switch is activated. The electrical switch may employ a piezoelectric element to recognize the application of pressure, a capacitive sensing circuit to recognize the presence of an object applying the pressure, and a microcontroller circuit to control output switch circuity upon satisfaction of both conditions precedent. The electrical switch can be configured to provide a continuous output signal for the duration that the switch is pressed after the conditions are satisfied or to switch between open and closed states each time the switch is pressed after the conditions are satisfied.

Abstract: An improved system and method is provided to defer the assignment of an attribute of an object in computer graphics. Through this improved method and system, a graphical object predefined in a computer graphics library can be reused with altered attributes. The operator first identifies the attribute expected to be altered and its corresponding attribute value. The attribute expected to be altered by the operator is included in an instance node related to the object along with the initial value.

Abstract: Machinery for automated manufacture of formed wire structures such as innerspring assemblies for mattresses and seating and flexible support structures includes one or more coil formation devices configurable to produce generally helical spring coils having a terminal convolution which extends beyond an end of the coil; a conveyor system having a plurality of flights slidably mounted upon a continuous track and connected to a chain and driven by an index driver; a coil transfer machine which removes a row of coils from the conveyor and inserts the coils into an innerspring assembler; an innerspring assembler having first and second sets of coil-engaging dies in a parallel arrangement, each set of dies having an upper row positioned over a lower row, the dies being mounted upon carrier bars which are vertically translated within the innerspring assembler to diverge the upper and lower dies of a set to allow positioning of a row of uncompressed coils between the upper and lower dies, and to converge the upper a

Abstract: An infusor system for administering medications to a patient comprises a delivery tube with one of the ends couplable to a supply of liquid medication. A dispenser head is coupled to the other end of the delivery tube and medication is directed through the tube to the dispenser head. The dispenser head includes a contact surface and is configured to be placed within a body cavity of a patient such that the contact surface contacts a portion of a mucous membrane in the body. The dispenser head is operable for directing medication from the delivery tube to the contact surface and on to the mucous membrane to be absorbed by the mucous membrane and distributed in a body of a patient. In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the dispenser head includes a portion of compressible foam which is configured to fit within the rectal cavity of a patient. The dispenser head channels, wicks or otherwise directs medication to the rectal mucous membrane to be absorbed thereby.

Abstract: An infusor system for administering medications to a patient comprises a delivery tube with one of the ends couplable to a supply of liquid medication. A dispenser head is coupled to the other end of the delivery tube and medication is directed through the tube to the dispenser head. The dispenser head includes a contact surface and is configured to be placed within a body cavity of a patient such that the contact surface contacts a portion of a mucous membrane in the body. The dispenser head is operable for directing medication from the delivery tube to the contact surface and on to the mucous membrane to be absorbed by the mucous membrane and distributed in a body of a patient. In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the dispenser head includes a portion of compressible foam which is configured to fit within the rectal cavity of a patient. The dispenser head channels, wicks or otherwise directs medication to the rectal mucous membrane to be absorbed thereby.

Abstract: A soft goods type foldable, wrappable sleeve orthopedic cast immobilizes and conforms to the shape and configuration of a limb, or other part of the anatomy. The soft-goods type cast assembly is initially specially formed or configured to specifically fit a selected portion of the anatomy of a patient. The cast conforms to the anatomy through the use of airtight and moisture-proof pouches which encapsulate either (1) open cell or fiberglass matrices impregnated with a water-activated hardenable pre-polymer, or (2) the entire assembly. After the tightening of the cast around the limb, the application of water activates the urethane polymer which conforms to the configuration of the limb encased. Supplemental bendable ribs may be employed to splint the limb prior to activation of the hardenable material. The soft goods type cast is held in place by straps, and may be removed or adjusted by releasing or tightening the straps. The splinting elements may be removed and replaced.

Abstract: A connector mate/demate tool provides remote coupling and decoupling of connector sections with a rotating locking ring on one section of the connector and where the other section is rigidly attached to some fixture. The tool mates the connector sections by first searching for a key-slot engagement of parts while exerting a small longitudinal force and then rotating the locking ring until the two sections are secured. Demating is accomplished by rotating the locking ring in the reverse direction and pulling the two connector sections apart.

Abstract: A fully automated tool for holding threaded fasteners during fastener insertion, removal, or transport is described. The device is capable of handling different sized fasteners and can be used with remote manipulator systems or in hand-held operations.