Abstract: A case-centric medical records system with social networking capabilities is disclosed. Using the system, users can build charts that are centered around a single procedure or treatment and include physician notes as well as imagery and video relating to the procedure. Users can also build social networks around their records by identifying colleagues with whom chart data can be shared. Search functions allow the charts to be searched by diagnosis and procedure codes or by other keywords or information. Users can search their networks of colleagues for relevant experience and expertise and can search and review their colleagues' charts to gain insights.

Abstract: The present invention includes a method and apparatus of managing time for a processing system located on a machine. The processing system includes a plurality of controllers and a communication network connecting each of the controllers. Each of the controllers has a local clock. The method includes the steps of establishing an operating characteristic of the machine, determining whether to update a local time in response to said operating characteristic, and updating said local time based upon the local clock in response to said update determination.

Abstract: The present invention includes a method and apparatus of managing time for a processing system located on a machine. The processing system includes a plurality of controllers and a communication network connecting each of the controllers. Each of the controllers has a local clock. The method includes the steps of establishing an operating characteristic of the machine, determining whether to update a local time in response to said operating characteristic, and updating said local time based upon the local clock in response to said update determination.

Abstract: An apparatus for comparing one machine in a fleet of machines is provided. The apparatus senses a plurality of characteristics of each machine in the fleet and responsively determines a set of fleet data. The apparatus further determines a set of reference machine data as a function of the fleet data, compares the data for the machine with the reference machine data, and responsively produces a deviation signal.

Abstract: A method and apparatus are disclosed for monitoring similar machine components loaded in parallel to produce trend information useful in diagnosing and predicting component degradation or failure. The invention is illustrated for engine cylinder exhaust port and manifold temperature measurements. In one embodiment split exhaust manifolds are each provided with a sensor to produce signals indicating the exhaust temperature. A computer-based trending module receives the parallel temperature information, periodically determines a difference between the temperatures, and averages the differential temperature readings over a predefined trend period to generate a trend values. A trend based on a plurality of the trend points is generated and monitored for changes which indicate the possible degradation of one of the measured components.

Abstract: In the field of large construction and mining equipment, significant frame stresses considerably shorten the expected operating life of a machine. This invention provides indications of significant frame stresses on machines having a ground engaging portion, a frame connected to the ground engaging portion, and a plurality of pressure sensing devices. Each of the pressure sensing devices are adapted to produce pressure signals indicative of loads imparted on the frame. The pressure signals are processed to produce frame stress data.

Abstract: A sensor system for a weapon, the sensor system comprising at least two light detectors having different fields of view and control means responsive to signals from the light detectors to calculate an appropriate time delay to firing of the weapon and to cause activation of the weapon firing system accordingly.

Abstract: A determination of the extent and location of malfunctions in electrical equipment is made by providing monitoring apparatus at the equipment which includes a resistance network that provides a different resistance each time a switch changes state and an output corresponding to that change that can be monitored from a remote location. The remote monitor disclosed is a programmed computer with a modem coupled to the monitoring apparatus by phone lines and also coupled to an output device by phone lines whereby the computer can readily transmit malfunction information to the output device at various maintenance center locations.

Abstract: A system for, and a method of, detecting the proximity of a source of an alternating magnetic field, such as that emanating from power transmission cables, comprising a sensor coil sensitive to the magnetic field under detection, processing means to derive from the signal induced in the coil a warning signal indicative of the proximity of the magnetic field under detection, and cancelling means operable to cancel the earth's field in the region of the sensor coil. The sensor coil may be one of a pair operable to provide a signal representative of the directional heading of the magnetic field under detection, with respect to the system, which embodiment is particularly useful in helicopters for detecting the proximity of power cables.