Abstract: Systems and methods may use natural language processing (NLP) and machine-learning techniques to detect an impact that an event will have on a domain-specific topic. For example, the system may use multi-stage cleaning using a rules-based and an artificial intelligence (AI)-based filter to filter large quantities of event items that may not be relevant to a domain of interest. The AI-based filter may be trained using labeled event items that were previously known to be impactful. The system may cluster the cleaned event items to group similar event items and eliminate redundancy. The system may then predict and quantify the impact that events described by clustered event items will have on the domain-specific topic. Such prediction may be based on a classifier trained using various model features that correlate with impactful events, including prior similar events.

Abstract: Determining the consistency of a mixture during a mixing process based on feedback from the mixer. The feedback may be indicative of the torque exerted on a motor shaft of the mixer. The consistency of the mixture may be determined based on the amount of torque, rate of change of torque, change in the rate of change of torque and/or a comparison of the torque information to a stored torque profile. The torque may be determined based on the current in the coils of a motor of the mixer (e.g., by measuring the voltage across a precision resistor in series with the coils). Alternatively, the feedback may be indicative of the angular velocity of the motor shaft, sound output by the mixer, vibration of the mixer, color of the mixture, or opacity of the mixture.

Abstract: The present system comprises a number of discrete elements, which when combined provide a solution which has not been attainable in the industry. A database of answer templates provides the answers to all conceivable questions asked on supplier self audit questionnaires. A web portal allows manufacturers access to the above template to allow personalisation of the answers to their own business. A routine to map each questionnaire into this database is provided. In one embodiment, technologists at a central location may perform the mapping of questionnaires. However, customers may directly map their own questionnaires, if desired. A software suite may be provided which manages access, security and general portal administration.

Abstract: A method of controlling a motor (106) used to drive a screwdriver bit (105) such that screws (107) are seated to the optimum point of grip between the screw (107) and the work piece material. An electronic control circuit controls the speed and output torque of the motor (106). The control system utilizes pulse width modulation (PWM) to control motor (106) speed and torque. The PWM signal controls the duty cycle of the transistors that supply current to the motor (106). The amount of current flowing through the motor (106) coils is proportional to the amount of torque the motor (106) is producing. Motor (106) current is measured as voltage produced across a precision resistor that is in series with the motor (106) coils. As the current in the motor (106) increases, the voltage across the resistor increases (V=IR).