Patents by Inventor James Hoffmaster
James Hoffmaster has filed for patents to protect the following inventions. This listing includes patent applications that are pending as well as patents that have already been granted by the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO).
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Publication number: 20230030629Abstract: A surgical tool for a robotic surgical system includes a tool housing having a mounting portion for releasably securing the surgical tool to a carriage of the robotic surgical system, tool circuity included in the tool housing and configured to communicate with corresponding circuitry of the robotic surgical system, and an indicator provided on the tool housing and electrically connected to the tool circuitry. The indicator is activatable upon communicably coupling the tool circuitry with the corresponding circuitry of the robotic surgical system, and the indicator provides a visual indication of remaining useful life of the surgical tool.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 3, 2022Publication date: February 2, 2023Applicant: CILAG GMBH INTERNATIONALInventors: Daniel MUMAW, Niko MURRELL, James HOFFMASTER, John A. HIBNER
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Patent number: 11497570Abstract: A surgical tool harvests power from a robotic surgical system having one or more robotic manipulators when a housing of the surgical tool is installed within a carriage of one of the robotic manipulators. The surgical tool harvests power via inductive coupling between an inductor of the surgical tool and a corresponding inductor of the carriage. The surgical tool may include an indicator that provides a user with an indication of remaining life of the surgical tool. The indicator may be an LED indicator that is illuminated with power generated via the inductive coupling. The indicator may also be an electro-chromic indicator that changes color when exposed to power generated via the inductive coupling. The indicator may also be a photo-chromic indicator that changes color when exposed to light from a light source powered via the inductive coupling.Type: GrantFiled: April 26, 2019Date of Patent: November 15, 2022Assignee: CILAG GMBH INTERNATIONALInventors: Daniel Mumaw, Niko Murrell, James Hoffmaster, John A. Hibner
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Patent number: 11471228Abstract: Various exemplary methods, systems, and devices for near field communication (NFC) between a surgical instrument and a robotic surgical system are provided. In general, a surgical tool is configured to move between different modes of communication with a robotic surgical system to which the tool is releasably and replaceably coupled. The different modes of communication are detectable by the robotic surgical system by the tool's frequency of NFC with the robotic surgical system. The tool includes a mechanism configured to be manipulated by a user of the tool to move the tool between the different modes of communication. The tool operating in a first mode of communication indicates to the robotic surgical system that the tool is operating in a normal state. The tool operating in each of one or more additional modes of communication indicates that the tool is operating in an error state.Type: GrantFiled: June 2, 2020Date of Patent: October 18, 2022Assignee: Cilag GmbH InternationalInventors: Mark D. Overmyer, Joshua Young, David C. Yates, James Hoffmaster, Ammon Wright, Vincenzo Barbato
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Publication number: 20200337790Abstract: A surgical tool harvests power from a robotic surgical system having one or more robotic manipulators when a housing of the surgical tool is installed within a carriage of one of the robotic manipulators. The surgical tool harvests power via inductive coupling between an inductor of the surgical tool and a corresponding inductor of the carriage. The surgical tool may include an indicator that provides a user with an indication of remaining life of the surgical tool. The indicator may be an LED indicator that is illuminated with power generated via the inductive coupling. The indicator may also be an electro-chromic indicator that changes color when exposed to power generated via the inductive coupling. The indicator may also be a photo-chromic indicator that changes color when exposed to light from a light source powered via the inductive coupling.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 26, 2019Publication date: October 29, 2020Applicant: Ethicon LLCInventors: Daniel Mumaw, Niko Murrell, James Hoffmaster, John A. Hibner
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Publication number: 20200289218Abstract: Various exemplary methods, systems, and devices for near field communication (NFC) between a surgical instrument and a robotic surgical system are provided. In general, a surgical tool is configured to move between different modes of communication with a robotic surgical system to which the tool is releasably and replaceably coupled. The different modes of communication are detectable by the robotic surgical system by the tool's frequency of NFC with the robotic surgical system. The tool includes a mechanism configured to be manipulated by a user of the tool to move the tool between the different modes of communication. The tool operating in a first mode of communication indicates to the robotic surgical system that the tool is operating in a normal state. The tool operating in each of one or more additional modes of communication indicates that the tool is operating in an error state.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 2, 2020Publication date: September 17, 2020Inventors: Mark D. Overmyer, Joshua Young, David C. Yates, James Hoffmaster, Ammon Wright, Vincenzo Barbato
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Patent number: 10695140Abstract: Various exemplary methods, systems, and devices for near field communication (NFC) between a surgical instrument and a robotic surgical system are provided. In general, a surgical tool is configured to move between different modes of communication with a robotic surgical system to which the tool is releasably and replaceably coupled. The different modes of communication are detectable by the robotic surgical system by the tool's frequency of NFC with the robotic surgical system. The tool includes a mechanism configured to be manipulated by a user of the tool to move the tool between the different modes of communication. The tool operating in a first mode of communication indicates to the robotic surgical system that the tool is operating in a normal state. The tool operating in each of one or more additional modes of communication indicates that the tool is operating in an error state.Type: GrantFiled: February 15, 2018Date of Patent: June 30, 2020Assignee: Ethicon LLCInventors: Mark D. Overmyer, Joshua Young, David C. Yates, James Hoffmaster, Ammon Wright, Vincenzo Barbato
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Publication number: 20190247133Abstract: Various exemplary methods, systems, and devices for near field communication (NFC) between a surgical instrument and a robotic surgical system are provided. In general, a surgical tool is configured to move between different modes of communication with a robotic surgical system to which the tool is releasably and replaceably coupled. The different modes of communication are detectable by the robotic surgical system by the tool's frequency of NFC with the robotic surgical system. The tool includes a mechanism configured to be manipulated by a user of the tool to move the tool between the different modes of communication. The tool operating in a first mode of communication indicates to the robotic surgical system that the tool is operating in a normal state. The tool operating in each of one or more additional modes of communication indicates that the tool is operating in an error state.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 15, 2018Publication date: August 15, 2019Inventors: Mark D. Overmyer, Joshua Young, David C. Yates, James Hoffmaster, Ammon Wright, Vincenzo Barbato
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Patent number: 9039208Abstract: The invention provides, in some aspects, devices for image acquisition that use seals between concentrically disposed portions of an enclosure and an optics assembly in order to protect image acquisition components from the surrounding environment while providing adequate friction for both adjusting and locking focus. Such devices can include an image capture medium that is disposed within an enclosure and an optics assembly that is also disposed within that enclosure. The optics assembly, which includes at least a lens, can have a cylindrical outer diameter along at least a portion of its length that is received within the enclosure along a length that has a corresponding cylindrical inner diameter. A first seal is disposed between, and in contact with, the optics assembly and the enclosure. That seal permits rotation of the optics assembly for purposes of focusing the lens, while preventing contamination from the environment from entering into the enclosure.Type: GrantFiled: October 10, 2011Date of Patent: May 26, 2015Assignee: Cognex CorporationInventors: George Costigan, Steven Goodspeed, Robert Tremblay, John Keating, Brian Phillips, James Hoffmaster
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Patent number: 8735850Abstract: A method and apparatus for sterilization of webs and products made therefrom using electron beams (ebeams) is provided. A controller is configured to modulate an ebeam to ensure that a non-continuously moving web is sterilized within a desired range of exposure. During sterilization in place operations, manifolds are configured to operate to ensure that sterilants do not enter an irradiation zone to prevent damage to ebeam emitters.Type: GrantFiled: July 6, 2010Date of Patent: May 27, 2014Assignee: Hitachi Zosen CorporationInventors: P. Michael Fletcher, Arthur Somerstein, James Hoffmaster, Michael Lawrence Bufano, Stephen Whittacker Into
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Publication number: 20120120490Abstract: The invention provides, in some aspects, devices for image acquisition that use seals between concentrically disposed portions of an enclosure and an optics assembly in order to protect image acquisition components from the surrounding environment while providing adequate friction for both adjusting and locking focus. Such devices can include an image capture medium that is disposed within an enclosure and an optics assembly that is also disposed within that enclosure. The optics assembly, which includes at least a lens, can have a cylindrical outer diameter along at least a portion of its length that is received within the enclosure along a length that has a corresponding cylindrical inner diameter. A first seal is disposed between, and in contact with, the optics assembly and the enclosure. That seal permits rotation of the optics assembly for purposes of focusing the lens, while preventing contamination from the environment from entering into the enclosure.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 10, 2011Publication date: May 17, 2012Applicant: COGNEX CORPORATIONInventors: George Costigan, Steven N. Goodspeed, Robert J. Tremblay, John F. Keating, Brian S. Phillips, James Hoffmaster
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Patent number: 8033670Abstract: The invention provides, in some aspects, devices for image acquisition that use seals (e.g., O-rings) between concentrically disposed portions of an enclosure and an optics assembly (or sub-assemblies thereof) in order to protect image acquisition components from the surrounding environment (and vice versa) while, at the same time, providing adequate friction for both adjusting and locking focus. Such devices include, in one aspect of the invention, an image capture medium (e.g., a CMOS sensor, CCD array, etc.) that is disposed within an enclosure and an optics assembly that is also disposed within that enclosure, rotatably. The optics assembly, which includes at least a lens, can have a cylindrical outer diameter along at least a portion of its length that is received within the enclosure along a length that has a corresponding cylindrical inner diameter. A first seal (e.g., an “O-ring”) is disposed between, and in contact with, the optics assembly and the enclosure, e.g., along these corresponding lengths.Type: GrantFiled: December 29, 2006Date of Patent: October 11, 2011Assignee: Cognex CorporationInventors: George Costigan, Steven N. Goodspeed, Robert J. Tremblay, John F. Keating, Brian S. Phillips, James Hoffmaster
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Publication number: 20110006225Abstract: A method and apparatus for sterilization of webs and products made therefrom using electron beams (ebeams) is provided. A controller is configured to modulate an ebeam to ensure that a non-continuously moving web is sterilized within a desired range of exposure. During sterilization in place operations, manifolds are configured to operate to ensure that sterilants do not enter an irradiation zone to prevent damage to ebeam emitters.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 6, 2010Publication date: January 13, 2011Inventors: P. Michael Fletcher, Arthur Somerstein, James Hoffmaster, Michael Lawrence Bufano, Stephen Whittacker Into
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Patent number: 7428985Abstract: A computerized drop safe running control and security software on a central processing unit controlling (CPU) operating features on and access to the drop safe. A user hierarchy has different access policies for making different transactions into the safe. Vault door access is controlled by the CPU to allow user access according to enabled policies. Transactions into and out of the safe vaults, motovend tube dispenser, and currency recyclers are recorded by the amounts and the user making the transaction into a memory coupled to the CPU. This data is also reported to a point of sale control interface at another location using a modem or Ethernet connection. The CPU can also receive data and control inputs by the modem and Ethernet, permitting centralized accounting and vending control options. A back office at the store can also easily access the safe for data retrieval or control inputs into the CPU using an Ethernet local area network computer system.Type: GrantFiled: June 13, 2007Date of Patent: September 30, 2008Assignee: Tidel Engineering, L.P.Inventors: Flynt M. Moreland, James Hoffmaster, Todd Dillen
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Patent number: 7417803Abstract: A machine vision image acquisition system is provided with a housing or enclosure that protects the acquisition system components from an industrial environment. The machine vision image acquisition system has a focusing mechanism that can be actuated externally to the housing. The focusing mechanism uses a gear drive to transmit externally actuated focus adjustments to the optical components of the acquisition system.Type: GrantFiled: November 18, 2004Date of Patent: August 26, 2008Assignee: Cognex Technology and Investment CorporationInventors: George Costigan, Steven N. Goodspeed, David R. King, Robert J. Tremblay, II, John F. Keating, Brian S. Phillips, James Hoffmaster
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Publication number: 20080158678Abstract: The invention provides, in some aspects, devices for image acquisition that use seals (e.g., O-rings) between concentrically disposed portions of an enclosure and an optics assembly (or sub-assemblies thereof) in order to protect image acquisition components from the surrounding environment (and vice versa) while, at the same time, providing adequate friction for both adjusting and locking focus. Such devices include, in one aspect of the invention, an image capture medium (e.g., a CMOS sensor, CCD array, etc.) that is disposed within an enclosure and an optics assembly that is also disposed within that enclosure, rotatably. The optics assembly, which includes at least a lens, can have a cylindrical outer diameter along at least a portion of its length that is received within the enclosure along a length that has a corresponding cylindrical inner diameter. A first seal (e.g., an “O-ring”) is disposed between, and in contact with, the optics assembly and the enclosure, e.g., along these corresponding lengths.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 29, 2006Publication date: July 3, 2008Applicant: COGNEX CORPORATIONInventors: George Costigan, Steven N. Goodspeed, Robert J. Tremblay, John F. Keating, Brian Phillips, James Hoffmaster
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Patent number: 7270275Abstract: The invention is a keypad for securely entering personal identification numbers onto automated teller machines (ATM) or similar devices. A frame secures a flexible keypad to a printed circuit board. The front of the circuit includes a set of tamper detection contacts whose electrical circuit is completed by conductive material on the keypad surface. A moat of conductive material surrounds the tamper detection contact. Opening the circuit by removing the keypad or shorting the circuit to the moat initiates a tamper response. Attached to the reverse side of the printed circuit board are security sensitive electrical components. These security sensitive components include a static random access memory storing cryptographic information and a crypto processor. A plastic cover imprinted with a tamper detection grid forming multiple electrical circuits coupled to a tamper detection circuit covers these components. A border of conductive material on the printed circuit board also surrounds these components.Type: GrantFiled: September 2, 2004Date of Patent: September 18, 2007Assignee: NCR CorporationInventors: Flynt Moreland, Douglas Busch, James Hoffmaster, Doug Powers, Mark Levenick
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Patent number: 7264150Abstract: A computerized drop safe running control and security software on a central processing unit controlling (CPU) operating features on and access to the drop safe. A user hierarchy has different access policies for making different transactions into the safe. Vault door access is controlled by the CPU to allow user access according to enabled policies. Transactions into and out of the safe vaults, motovend tube dispenser, and currency recyclers are recorded by the amounts and the user making the transaction into a memory coupled to the CPU. This data is also reported to a point of sale control interface at another location using a modem or Ethernet connection. The CPU can also receive data and control inputs by the modem and Ethernet, permitting centralized accounting and vending control options. A back office at the store can also easily access the safe for data retrieval or control inputs into the CPU using an Ethernet local area network computer system.Type: GrantFiled: July 22, 2004Date of Patent: September 4, 2007Assignee: Tidel Engineering, L.P.Inventors: Flynt Moreland, Douglas Busch, James Hoffmaster, Todd Dillen, Doug Powers
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Publication number: 20060103755Abstract: A machine vision image acquisition system is provided with a housing or enclosure that protects the acquisition system components from an industrial environment. The machine vision image acquisition system has a focusing mechanism that can be actuated externally to the housing. The focusing mechanism uses a gear drive to transmit externally actuated focus adjustments to the optical components of the acquisition system.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 18, 2004Publication date: May 18, 2006Inventors: George Costigan, Steven Goodspeed, David King, Robert Tremblay, John Keating, Brian Phillips, James Hoffmaster
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Patent number: 6032208Abstract: A process controller implements smart field device standards and other bus-based architecture standards so that communications and control among devices are performed so that the standard control operations are transparent to a user. The process controller allows attachment to a theoretically and substantially unlimited number and type of field devices including smart devices and conventional non-smart devices. Control and communication operations of the various numbers and types of devices are performed simultaneously and in parallel.Type: GrantFiled: April 12, 1996Date of Patent: February 29, 2000Assignee: Fisher-Rosemount Systems, Inc.Inventors: Mark Nixon, Robert B. Havekost, Larry O. Jundt, Dennis Stevenson, Michael G. Ott, Arthur Webb, Mike Lucas, James Hoffmaster