Abstract: A method for playing a sport that includes the following steps: (1) a fee is paid by a player, (2) the player places a ball on the ground at the beginning of a course (the course contains a plurality of goals), (3) the player kicks the ball towards the first of the goals, (4) the player scores a goal by kicking his ball into the first goal, (5) the player tabulates the number of kicks required to score the goal, (6) the player records the results of his tabulation and assigns one point for each kick required, (7) the player moves to the next goal and repeats steps 3-6 for each successive goal until the course is complete, and (8) the player determines his final score by adding the number of points required to complete the course. The player with the lowest point total is the winner.

Abstract: A construction for a baseball or softball having a raised seam is provided. The ball includes a core and first and second cover pieces. Each cover piece has an inner surface, an outer surface and a peripheral edge. A bead of hot melt adhesive is adhered to the inner surface of each cover piece in a pattern substantially parallel to and located inside of the peripheral edge. After the hot melt adhesive hardens, it forms a strip of elastomeric material. Then the cover pieces are placed together about the core of the ball and stitched together with the beads of hot melt adhesive material located within the stitching, so that the beads support the cover pieces to form a raised seam on the ball. The hot melt adhesive material is preferably selected to have a durometer hardness comparable to that of the core of the ball, so that the ball will perform substantially the same regardless of whether it is struck on-seam or off-seam by a batter.

Abstract: In a pair of conical disks (pulley halves) of an infinitely variable cone-pulley transmission, in the case where the conical disks are spaced apart, a pressure compartment through channels formed in a shaft A connects to a pressure chamber that serves to move one of the conical disks. The pressure compartment is on one side delimited by a piston-like part serving to modulate the pressure inside the compartment dependent on the torque acting on the pair of conical disks. By switching on the connection to the pressure compartment, the system pressure can be modulated not only dependent on the torque but also dependent on the transmission ratio. Advantageous designs of the valve arrangement for switching the pressure compartment on and off are described.

Abstract: An anti-snare device including a roller dimensioned and positioned to deflect away, and thereby prevent, a bouncing bicycle chain from contacting the lower-rear quadrant of a chain ring gear when shifting to a smaller front gear during vigorous pedaling, and from catching on a tooth on the upwardly rotating section of the gear.

Abstract: The invention relates to a multipart drive shaft of a chain drive for chain scraping conveyors for heavy-duty sprags in coal mining, consisting of a main shaft with unilateral or bilateral internal gearing for receiving externally geared stub shafts for the gear connection, and a chain sprocket fastened to the main shaft for interaction with the conveyor chain band. In this invention, the chain sprocket fastened to the main shaft is constructed in multiple parts by radially running segments, and is shrink-fitted in several or all individual parts to the main shaft. In accordance with the invention, a radial division into two shrink-fitted casings and a chain drum is especially appropriate and economical.

Abstract: A energy transmission chain for guiding hoses, cables and the like between two connection points includes chain links each having two side elements connected by cross-members. The side elements of adjacent chain links have overlapping sections and are joined to rotate around a pivot in one plane. Energy transmission chains with high lateral stability, which do not sag, particularly when installed in a lateral position, and which are simple and inexpensive to manufacture are frequently desired. This is the case if the moveable consumer connected to the energy transmission chain is traversed in a horizontal plane. Thus, at least one of the respective adjacent side elements (1) has at least one guide groove (7) extending parallel to the plane of rotation. The side element adjacent to this element engages one of the guide grooves over the entire angle of rotation by a guide element (8) extending parallel to the plane of rotation.

Abstract: A power transmission roller chain includes pin links having pins spaced by one pitch and connected to each other by plates, and bushing links or “blocks” having bushings spaced apart from each other and rigidly connected to each other by plates. Two successive pin links are connected to each other by a bushing link having the bushings rotatably mounted on the pins. At least one pin link includes a central plate provided with pins alternately protruding from opposite faces of the plate offset from each other by a fraction of a pitch.

Abstract: A model train locomotive has a set of drive wheels and a power system for rotating the drive wheels. The power system comprises an electric motor mounted for rotating a power input shaft, a control mechanism for regulating the amount of electric current supply to the motor for varying the rotational speed of the power input shaft, and power transmission assembly for transmitting power from the power input shaft to rotate a driven output shaft which is coupled to rotate the locomotive drive wheels. The power transmission assembly includes a flywheel and gear train for rotating the flywheel about an axis of rotation when the electric motor is rotating the power input shaft while the driven output shaft is not rotating.

Abstract: A mechanical power transmission system for an engine or motor driven vehicle is disclosed. The transmission of the present invention includes an input transmission, a compound planetary transmission, and an output transmission. The compound planetary transmission includes two input and two outputs. The input transmission has a single input connected to the engine or motor of the vehicle and two outputs connected to the two inputs to the planetary transmission. The output transmission includes two inputs connected to the two outputs of the planetary transmission and one output connected through suitable gearing to the wheels of the vehicle or any other mechanism to be driven by a motoring device at various speed ratios.

Abstract: An improved differential eliminates the need for a differential case. A cap is fixed to each of the spider legs, and traps the pinion gear. This arrangement reduces the weight and complexity of assembly for differentials. Moreover, the assembly increases the ease of oil access to bevel gears in the differential.

Abstract: The present invention is proposed to avoid the generation of shocks when the output of an engine is switched with that of an electric motor connected by a clutch. The invention comprises a first electric motor connected mechanically to an engine and a second electrical motor connected mechanically through a clutch to an engine. The drive force is transmitted to the drive wheel through a transmission from the second electric motor. It is decided whether or not to connect the clutch on the basis of driving conditions. When it is decided to connect the clutch, the engine is controlled so that the output of the engine meets the required force. The first electric motor functions as an electric generator so that the rotation speed of the engine reaches a target rotation speed. When the engine is rotating at a target rotation speed, the clutch is connected. In this way, shocks are avoided when the clutch is connected and improved driving performance is realized.

Abstract: A driving force control system for an automotive vehicle provided with a transmission including a first motor-generator connected to an engine, and a second motor-generator connected to road wheels and driven by electric power generated by the first motor-generator. A first rotational speed sensor is provided for detecting a rotational speed of the first motor-generator. A second rotational speed sensor is provided for detecting a rotational speed of the second motor-generator. A control unit is provided programmed to control the rotational speed of the first motor-generator in accordance with the rotational speed of the second motor-generator. Additionally, the control unit is programmed to control a ratio between a first driving frequency for the first motor-generator and a second driving frequency for the second motor-generator so as to control the rotational speeds of the first and second motor-generators.

Abstract: When the shift position is an N position or a P position during deceleration of a vehicle, or when a brake pedal is depressed even if the shift position is a D position or an R position, an engine E is stopped to prohibit an unnecessary idling operation by prohibiting the restarting of the supplying of fuel subsequent to the fuel cut by a command from an electronic control unit. If the supplying of fuel is restarted when the engine is in stoppage, a starter motor is driven automatically to start the engine. Thus, in a vehicle including an automatic transmission, the time of stoppage of the engine can be prolonged as much as possible in a range in which the operability of the vehicle is injured, thereby providing a reduction in amount of fuel consumed.

Abstract: A hydraulic control apparatus for an automatic transmission, which is improved in accurately controlling a variation in torque generated when a shift lever is turned from an N range into a D range or R range by perfectly electronically controlling a hydraulic control system. The hydraulic control apparatus has a pressure governing means for governing a hydraulic pressure, which has been generated by a hydraulic pressure generating means of an automatic transmission and is to be supplied from a spool valve to a clutch, by an actuator, thereby suppressing a variation in output torque of the automatic transmission. The hydraulic pressure governed by the actuator is introduced into the spool valve again, and it is supplied to a forward clutch and a reverse clutch through a hydraulic line switching means for switching hydraulic lines communicated to the forward clutch and the reverse clutch from each other.

Abstract: The invention provides a hydraulic pressure control system for an automatic transmission and a method that enable a smooth kick-down from any accelerator (throttle) opening degree. The hydraulic pressure control system comprises at least a throttle opening degree sensor (3), a vehicle speed sensor to detect a vehicle speed, a hydraulic (or oil) pressure controller (including device) (6) which receives signals (S3A, S3B, S4A, S4B) from sensors (3, 4), and a line pressure solenoid (14) which receives a signal (S9) from the hydraulic pressure controller (6). The hydraulic pressure controller (6) further comprises a throttle opening memory storage (including device) (8) for storing the signal S3B from the throttle opening degree sensor (3) and a line pressure controller (including device) to control a line pressure in shifting according to the throttle opening degree, stored by the throttle opening memory storage, before a predetermined period from a shift gear determination point.

Abstract: A system and method for monitoring training programs prescribed to benefit a subject. A training program prescriber may evaluate training effectiveness from a separate location from where a subject performs training tasks. Accuracy of actual task performances is measured and is compared with quality-benchmark data. The number of tasks actually performed is recorded and is compared with quantity-benchmark data. Benchmark-data may be obtained from previous subject performances or from performance by a defined reference population. Categorized results are calculated and assessments regarding program difficulty and motivation of the subject may be formulated. Compliance with expected program goals is analyzed and monitored.

Abstract: A collar of lambswool in a silk sleeve is wrapped around the neck to promote sweating and therefore a reduction of the size of the neck.

Abstract: Several embodiments of a foldable and transportable elliptical exercise machine are disclosed which include pedal arms and optional corresponding load bearing rails that are folded to an upright position for storage and transportation. The pedal arms are shaped to optimize user safety and exercise productivity. The device housing can include movable portions that optimize safety during use, but accommodate the pedal arms in the upright and folded position.

Abstract: A support for a wheel at a plurality of heights above a surface includes a housing adapted to rest upon the surface, a first wheel receiving region configured to support the wheel at a first height above the surface when the housing rests upon the surface, and a second wheel receiving region configured to support the wheel at a second height above the surface when the housing rests upon the surface, the second height being different from the first height.

Abstract: A fitness method for an exerciser combines the benefits of isometric-like exercising with isotonic exercising for simultaneous training of the exerciser's cardiovascular and skeletal musculature systems and strength and endurance buildup. The method entails coupling the exerciser's hands together in any one of a number of configurations and generating an isometric-like force during the coupling stage. The coupled hands can then be moved in any number of directions or coupled differently while maintaining or varying the isometric-like force during the movement. In addition, further training can be achieved by moving one or more other body parts during the coupled hand movement. The legs, torso, shoulders, and/or neck can be moved in any number of directions or sequences to exercise different muscle groups in conjunction with the muscle groups being worked by the movement of the coupled hands.

Abstract: An athletic apparatus has a resilient ball having a cylinder glued into a conduit positioned across a diameter of the ball. A pair of handles are removably attachable to the ball to facilitate a plurality of exercises and stretching activities. Each handle has a cylindrical base and a padded handle cover. A spring positioned within the cylindrical base biases a locking portion and an unlocking button through a pair of attachment conduits at the end of the cylindrical base, allowing the locking portion to cooperate with a locking slot located near the end of the cylinder to removably locking the cylindrical base within the cylinder. The apparatus, configured as a simple ball with no handles attached, is functional as a medicine ball. With one handle attached, the apparatus functions as a weighted hammer. With two handles attached, the apparatus functions as a weighted exercise bar.

Abstract: An exercise apparatus is presented that allows for adjustments in height, and optionally width between hand grips, while maintaining an ergonomic grip that is substantially parallel to the user's body, regardless of the adjustment used.

Abstract: A horizontal machine tool has a spindle head which supports a horizontal tool spindle. The spindle head is guided on a top surface portion of a base such that the spindle head is movable in two horizontal directions X and Z. A workpiece support for supporting a workpiece on its upper end is guided on the vertical front face portion of the base for movement in a vertical direction Y. When the spindle head is located at a machining position at the center in the X direction, a pair of guide portions of each of a front/back guide mechanism for the spindle head and a vertical guide mechanism for the workpiece support body take symmetrical positions with respect to a vertical plane including the axis of the tool spindle. A first index member and a second index member for supporting the workpiece are provided on the workpiece support body. Therefore, all surfaces of the workpiece excepting an attachment surface can be machined while being directed to a tool on the tool spindle.

Abstract: A charging roll comprising a center shaft an electrically conductive rubber layer formed on an outer circumferential surface of the center shaft and having a relatively low hardness a resistance adjusting layer formed radially outwardly of the conductive rubber layer and a protective layer formed radially outwardly of the resistance adjusting layer. The resistance adjusting layer is formed of a rubber composition prepared by mixing a rubber material with particles of an electron-conductive material and particles of an electrically insulating material. The rubber composition comprises 10-50 parts by weight of the electrically insulating material per 100 parts by weight of the electron-conductive material.

Abstract: In an apparatus for machining a material web by means of a sonotrode, the pressure force of the sonotrode is determined and is used as a control signal for the advance of the sonotrode, as a result of which the nip height is set.

Abstract: An apparatus for making prototype packaging or boxes for various products includes a support surface for supporting a sheet material and a cutting tool for cutting contour lines of the box from the strip material. The support surface includes a recess to accommodate a bristle insert for providing a bristle surface for the cutting tool to engage during cutting operations. As the cutting tool penetrates the sheet material during the cutting operation and comes into contact with the bristle surface, the cutting tool does not become dulled and does not damage the bristle surface. The bristle surface also supports a creasing operation when crease lines are formed with a creasing tool within the sheet material. Alternatively, the apparatus of the present invention accommodates a grooved insert interchangeable with the bristle insert for creasing operations.

Abstract: A method of manufacturing a file folder includes the steps of displacing a predetermined length of a flexible material in a feed direction and forming a pair of spaced apertures in the material. The method further includes the steps of inserting a prong of a binder through each aperture, the binder having an elongate central portion with a prong extending from each end of the central portion and securing the central portion of the binder to the material. The invention also relates to an apparatus for manufacturing a file folder.

Abstract: A cushion producing machine includes a frame, a forming assembly mounted to the frame for creating a cushioning product from sheet-like stock material, the forming assembly including a triangular plate coacting with a pair of curved surfaces to inwardly roll the lateral edges of the stock material to form a continuous strip having lateral pillow-like portions and a thin central band, and a coining assembly for coining the central band of the continuous strip.

Abstract: A centrifuge rotor having a top surface, a bottom surface, side surface extending between the top and bottom surfaces, a centrally located bore for installing the rotor on a motor drive shaft of a centrifuge device, and at least one elongated aperture extending down and outwardly from the top surface of the rotor, the at least one elongated aperture for receiving a strip of interconnected centrifuge tubes. The rotor can also include an adapter for mounting the centrifuge tube strip in the at least one elongated aperture when the centrifuge tube strip is sized substantially smaller than the at least one elongated aperture.

Abstract: The invention relates to a process and vehicle for the disposal of carbon dioxide. Gaseous carbon dioxide is solidified and allowed to free fall through open water where i at least partially embeds itself in sedimentary formations. Sedimentation ensures that the marine environment is an overall carbon sink through carbonate sequestration.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for dynaimic stereotactic radiotreatment and prevention of restenosis. A stent is implanted in a coronary artery, following percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty. Subsequent restenosis is minimized by external irradiation of the stent by ionizing radiation such as gamma rays. The fact that the stent is significantly more opaque to x-rays than the surrounding tissue is exploited to track the stent using fluoroscopy, so that the ionizing radiation can be aimed accurately at the stent. Preferably, the fluoroscopic imaging and the irradiation of the stent are synchronized with the patient's cardiac cycle. The external irradiation may be performed hours or days after implanting the stent, for prevention of restenosis, or weeks or months after implanting the stent, for treatment of restenosis, and may be fractionated.

Abstract: A radiation shield assembly (30) for a radioactive stent (11) mounted onto a deployment portion (20) of a delivery apparatus (12) including a relatively thin, elongated tube member (69) having a wall (70) defining a receiving passage (72) formed and dimensioned for axial receipt of the stent mounted onto the deployment portion therein to substantially prevent direct contact with the stent (11). A removal structure (71) cooperating with the wall (70) of the tube member (69) for longitudinal severing thereof to enable selective removal of the tube member from the delivery apparatus (12) for deployment use thereof.

Abstract: The present invention is an intra-aortic circulatory enhancing apparatus for use in human patients to improve blood flow to other arteries continuous with the aorta of the patient. The apparatus comprises an internal inflation means located within the aorta of the patient and an external inflation means located outside of the patient. The internal inflation means can be an internal balloon coupled to a hollow extent which is operatively coupled to a blood communication means. The blood communication means can be a first hollow catheter tube in one embodiment. The external inflation means can be an external balloon coupled to a hollow extent running through the center of the balloon and continuous with a second hollow catheter tube. The blood communication means is coupled to the internal and external inflation means, allowing blood within the aorta to communicate with the secondary inflation means.

Abstract: A floating mass transducer for improving hearing in a hearing impaired person is provided. The floating mass transducer (100) may be implanted or mounted externally for producing vibrations in a vibratory structure of an ear. In an exemplary embodiment, the floating mass transducer comprises a magnet assembly (12) and a coil (14) secured inside a housing (10) which is fixed to an ossicle of a middle ear. The coil is more rigidly secured to the housing than the magnet. The magnet assembly and coil are configured such that conducting alternating electrical current through the coil results in vibration of the magnet assembly and coil relative to one another. The vibration is caused by the interaction of the magnetic fields of the magnet assembly and coil. Because the coil is more rigidly secured to the housing than the magnet assembly, the vibrations of the coil cause the housing to vibrate. The vibrations of the housing are conducted to the oval window of the ear via the ossicles.

Abstract: A hearing assistance system senses sound vibrations of an auditory element in the middle ear and provides a stimulus to an auditory sensory element. The vibrations are received through the tympanic membrane, and sensed at the tympanic membrane, malleus, incus, or other auditory element. A capacitive sensor is mechanically or magnetically coupled to a vibrating auditory element, such as the malleus, and time-varying capacitance values resulting from the vibrations are detected. One embodiment allows pivotable mechanical coupling of the capacitive sensor to at least one of the auditory element and a carrier secured within the middle ear. A resulting electrical output signal is provided to the output stimulator for assisting hearing.

Abstract: An auxiliary erotic implement includes a body, a vibrator, a transmitting unit, and an changeover switch. the body has an intermediate portion provided with a layer of rolling beads under the surface, and the vibrator provided on an outer surface of a rear portion. the transmitting unit is container in the body, consisting of a motor, tow gear and rod sets, a slide plate, an interacting gear and an interacting rod. The body is rotated for 360° and move axially back and forth at the same time by the two gear and rod sets rotated by the motor controlled by the changeover switch and cooperated by the interacting gear, the interacting rod and the slide plate. In addition, the rolling beads also roll together with the body, enhancing worth of the implement and pleasure to be acquired.

Abstract: An endoscopic video system for correcting a video image of an object to be studied has a processing unit controlling an electronic image recorder which has a multiplicity of image elements, each generating an output signal upon illuminating a known test object. The processing unit has a learning mode of operation, wherein it determines and records a correction value corresponding to a difference between an output signal of the known test object and a generated one by each of the image elements, and a recording mode, wherein an output signal generated by each image element upon illuminating an object to be studied is adjusted at the correction value.

Abstract: A video scope has an entry section which can advance into an object; and a grip section which is disposed at the back of the entry section and to be held by an operator, wherein a light reflecting body, an objective lens, a solid-state image pickup device, a light source, a window of incidence for image pickup rays and illumination windows located in the vicinities of the window of incidence are disposed in the entry section, and wherein at least a power source is disposed in the grip section for driving the light source. A portable accommodation case has an accommodation space for accommodating the video scope; and a lid which has a thin display attached thereto, and can rotate freely and stop at an optional position, wherein the thin display is capable of displaying an image which is picked up by the video scope.

Abstract: A disposable otoscope tip system that mounts to a head of an otoscope. The system comprising a receptacle that mounts to the head of the otoscope and a conical member that is secured to the receptacle. The conical member having a first and a second open end. The first open end includes a lip and has a greater diameter than the second open end. The first open end of the conical member being connected to the receptacle by a shoulder which extends radially inward from an inner surface of a neck to secure the lip therein.

Abstract: An instrument platform and retractor, for holding and organizing cannulas, instruments and sutures during a surgical procedure, wherein the instrument platform has a platform body which is mountable to the retractor and includes a central opening and cannula notches formed therein adjacent to the central opening for securing cannulas during a surgical procedure. The platform body also includes suture grips and instrument mounts for securing surgical instruments and sutures during a surgical procedure. The retractor includes a pair of blades and a spreader mechanism detachably mounted to blade arms.

Abstract: An improved surgical retractor stay system has a variable geometry retractor frame and disposable retractor stay clips. The retractor stay clips are adapted to snap onto the variable geometry retractor frame and are slidably movable thereon. The retractor frames are custom made having variable geometry and are prepared from extruded metals. The surgical retractor stay system uses the snap-on retractor stay clips in conjunction with the variable geometry retractor frame.

Abstract: A system and related method for remotely monitoring the health of a patient are provided to inform the patient as to his/her state of health. Data on a patient physiological parameter is analyzed at a patient site using Shewhart's rules of detection. The patient is notified when the conditions for one of Shewhart's rules are met, which may indicate a significant change in the patient's health status. Preferably, the notice to the patient is tailored by the patient's health care provider, and may instruct the patient to contact the health care provider or take some other preventative action. Preferably, information is transferred from the patient site to a health care provider site.

Abstract: A method and system for correlating physiological attributes including heart rate, temperature, general somatic activity (GSA), and galvanic skin response (GSR) to N emotions of a user of a computer input device, such as a mouse. Sensors are in the mouse to sense the physiological attributes, which are correlated to emotions using a correlation model. The correlation model is derived from a calibration process in which a baseline attribute-to-emotion correlation is rendered based on statistical analysis of calibration signals generated by users having emotions that are measured or otherwise known at calibration time. A vector in N dimensions, representative of a subject user's emotions, is output for subsequent subject users whose emotions are sought to be known, with the baseline being the reference in the N-dimensional space of the vector.

Abstract: Methods for enhanced transdermal transport wherein the application of ultrasound is required only once for repeated or sustained transdermal extraction or delivery, over a period of time, rather than prior to each extraction or delivery. The method is applicable to analyte extraction, as well as for drug delivery. The method involves the initial application of an amount of low frequency ultrasound effective to permeabilize the skin or membrane followed by analyte extraction or drug delivery over a period of time. The initial application of ultrasound is effective to permeabilize the skin or membrane for at least about 30 minutes, preferably at least one to two hours, and more preferably up to four to ten hours. The ultrasound is preferably low frequency ultrasound, less than 2.5 MHz, more preferably less than 1 MHz.

Abstract: A living body fluid analyzing system includes a microdialysis for sending a first solution having an osmotic pressure which is substantially similar to a osmotic pressure of a body fluid into a living body and extracting a second solution from the living body. A first flow passage is provided in which the second solution from the microdialysis flows and a second flow passage is provided which mixes the second solution with an organic solution. Furthermore, there is provided a gas source and a gas flow controller which controls a flow quantity of the gas from the gas source and a third flow passage in which a gas introduced from the gas source flows. An ion source is provided having an orifice for spraying and ionizing the second solution from the second flow passage at an end of the third flow passage, and a mass spectrometer is provided for mass-analyzing the ions sprayed from the orifice.

Abstract: A non-contact type tonometer in which a stream of air is blown onto an eye to be examined by air stream blowing means, the deformation of a cornea caused by the air stream blowing means is optically detected by a cornea deformation detection optical system, and a control circuit calculates out the eye pressure of the examined eye on the basis of the result of the detection by the cornea deformation detecting optical system. Here, the quantity of the reflected light of a light beam projected onto the eye to be examined is obtained by a signal processing circuit. The above-mentioned control circuit compares with one another a plurality of light quantity data obtained by the signal processing circuit to make a judgement on whether the eye to be examined is a human eye or a model eye.

Abstract: A device and method for the detection of smooth surface lesions such as caries and tooth crown surface cracks on a tooth crown surface, the device having an ultrasonic surface wave transmitter/receiver comprising a focused ultrasonic surface waves along a tooth crown surface. Surface lesions encountered by the ultrasonic surface waves produce ultrasonic surface wave reflections which are receivable at the generator/receiver, thus enabling the presence of the lesion, and particularly small lesions, to be detected. The ultrasonic surface wave generator/receiver may comprise a focused transducer, having a focusing element integral therewith or separate therefrom, operatively connected to a wedge-like coupler. Longitudinal ultrasonic waves generated by the transducers are at least partially focused by the focusing element and then imparted onto the tooth surface by the coupler which has a contact surface in contact with the tooth surface being tested.

Abstract: A rotor is disposed coaxially in a tubular housing and spaced therefrom to define a gap for receiving a fluid. An ultrasonic transducer is mounted at one end of the housing in alignment with a target at a corresponding end of the rotor. Ultrasonic pulses are bounced off the target for measuring linear position thereof based on the speed of sound in the fluid and round trip pulse time between the transducer and target. The speed of sound in the fluid between the transducer and target is self-calibrated.

Abstract: The image processing method according to the invention includes a step for the acquisition, by means of an ultrasound transducer, of a digitized echographic image of a structure which is substantially not transparent to the ultrasound waves, and a step for the extraction of contour points of said structure. In order to automate the extraction of points, the method includes sub-steps for the detection, in the columns of points of the digitized echographic image, of points which locally have a maximum intensity along each column, for the chaining of points detected from one column to another in a predetermined vicinity, and for selecting chains in the digitized echographic image by determining the chain nearest to the ultrasound transducer as being the contour of said structure.

Abstract: An medical diagnostic ultrasonic image processing method estimates motion between first and second composite ultrasonic images that include both B-mode and Color Doppler information. First and second B-mode images are extracted from the first and second composite ultrasonic images, respectively, and then motion is estimated between the first and second B-mode images. The estimated motion is then used to compose a multi-frame image using at least portions of the composite ultrasonic images or derivatives of the composite ultrasonic images, such as the B-mode images.