Vehicle Operator Instruction Or Testing Patents (Class 434/29)
  • Patent number: 8834164
    Abstract: Systems and methods for use in training crewmembers in the cargo compartment in detecting and identifying visual cues related to potential threats to aircraft and to ground based search and rescue circumstances. A visual display displays a scene generated by a visual scene generator apparatus. A vision limiting device, such as an actual door from an aircraft, equipped with a window is placed between the trainee and the visual display and the trainee can only see a limited amount of the visual display through the door's window. The limited view of the scene afforded the trainee will force the trainee to move around at various angles to see more of the scene and will also provide a frame of reference for making spatiotemporal judgments regarding the relationships between the trainee, the trainee's aircraft, and objects external to the aircraft.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 16, 2012
    Date of Patent: September 16, 2014
    Assignee: Her Majesty The Queen in Right of Canada, as represented by the Minister of National Defence
    Inventors: Stuart Grant, Tony Ghoman
  • Patent number: 8827708
    Abstract: A method, computer system and computer program product for providing a computer simulation that provides advance notification of expected events or states, comprising running a first computer simulation; running a second computer simulation corresponding to said first simulation, said second simulation having progressed further than said first simulation; and using said second computer simulation to provide information representing expected future events in said first simulation. A first computer simulation may be based on a model of a simulated system, said model having a plurality of state variables. Input data from a first user input interface may represent user interaction with said first computer simulation, while input data from a second user input interface may represent the extent to which a condition should be present in said simulation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 9, 2009
    Date of Patent: September 9, 2014
    Assignee: Laerdal Medical AS
    Inventors: Nikolaj Christensen, Bo Belhage
  • Patent number: 8794969
    Abstract: A vehicle pneumatic system training aid comprises simulated controls and indicators and a pneumatic circuit. The simulated controls and indicators correspond to at least a portion of controls and indicators on an actual vehicle. The pneumatic circuit comprises a connection to a source of pressurized fluid, and at least one fluid flow control device. The fluid flow control device is positionable in at least two different positions corresponding to different actual vehicle conditions that are simulatable. The simulated controls are actuatable to change a condition of the pneumatic circuit and the simulated indicators are operable to display an indication of the condition of the pneumatic circuit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 31, 2011
    Date of Patent: August 5, 2014
    Assignee: Alaska Airlines, Inc.
    Inventors: Philip M. Tenning, Greg Cass
  • Patent number: 8794970
    Abstract: This disclosure describes novel aircraft control systems for propeller-driven training aircraft, and methods for their use. In an aspect of some embodiments, a control system might comprise an integrated power control that takes a single power input from the pilot and translates that input into controls for a throttle, a propeller pitch setting, and a fuel/air mixture. In another aspect of some embodiments, a glass cockpit may be provided, with computer displays emulating the instruments of the aircraft for which the pilot is training. Advantageously, this allows a pilot in training to learn, from the beginning, the power controls and/or instrumentation for the aircraft for which the pilot is training, instead of having to learn one power control and instrumentation system, only to later have to learn another system. In a specific embodiment, the instrumentation displays may be reconfigurable, allowing the displays to emulate those of a variety of jet aircraft.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 14, 2006
    Date of Patent: August 5, 2014
    Inventor: Steven G. Testrake
  • Publication number: 20140212846
    Abstract: An excavator (10) has a quick coupler (24) coupled to the distal end (22) of its excavator arm (12). The quick coupler (24) can be operated from the cab (14) of the excavator (10), and is connected to a warning control system (48) or an instructional device (102). The warning control system (48) is connected to a coupler control circuit (46), which controls the coupler (24) and the system or circuit acquires information on the coupler's status. A control system activation warning circuit is then arranged to be responsible for issuing warning signals (53, 54) to personnel located external of the cab when the coupler control circuit (46) is activated into an accessory coupling procedure mode, or an accessory decoupling procedure mode. To do this, the warning circuit (48) is coupled to an audio and/or visual alarm (50, 52) for directing the warnings (53, 54) to the personnel, including bystanders. The instructional device, however, instructs the operator as to how to use the coupler.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 19, 2011
    Publication date: July 31, 2014
    Applicant: MILLER INTERNATIONAL LTD.
    Inventors: Gary Miller, Howard Reay
  • Patent number: 8784107
    Abstract: This disclosure describes novel systems, methods and software for providing flight training. In an aspect of some embodiments, flight data is collected during a training flight. That flight data then can be used to provide a review and/or simulation of the training flight. The student may be allowed to participate in the simulation by providing input from a set of controls. In some cases, an instructor (or another) might provide modified flight data, which can be used to modify the simulation. Advantageously, this allows for the analysis and simulation of a variety of hypothetical, “what-if” scenarios.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 14, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 22, 2014
    Assignee: Cubic Corporation
    Inventors: Steven G. Testrake, Keith Shean, Robert Jeffrey Herbert, Gordon Ritchie
  • Patent number: 8777621
    Abstract: An activity device including an activity sensor for generating an activity interaction signal responsive to a sustained large-muscle physical activity of a user operating the activity device; a controller, coupled to the activity monitor, generating a virtual environment supporting a virtual user frame-of-reference in the virtual environment, the controller generating a set of virtual education elements in the environment and a goal for the set virtual representation with respect to the virtual education elements wherein the controller is responsive to the activity interaction signal to produce an affected interaction of the virtual representation with the virtual education elements with the controller measuring a conformation of the goal by the affected interaction; and a feedback system, coupled to the controller, for presenting the virtual environment with the frame-of-reference in relation to the virtual education elements for providing the user with feedback.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 11, 2013
    Date of Patent: July 15, 2014
    Inventor: H. Christian Hölljes
  • Patent number: 8770979
    Abstract: An aircraft control system for a user of a simulated aircraft. The system includes input devices for controlling the simulated aircraft, a video display having three-dimensional graphics, modeling software for determining position and orientation information based on desired direction of flight obtained through the input devices. User controls desired direction of flight through the input devices, thus controlling aircraft. The aircraft control system may be embodied as a flight game.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 9, 2013
    Date of Patent: July 8, 2014
    Assignee: Gaijin Entertainment Corp.
    Inventors: Kirill Yudintsev, Alexander Polyakov
  • Patent number: 8758016
    Abstract: A system for simulating the complete operation of a vehicle, particularly a military vehicle, and to provide a simultaneous, integrated vehicle training environment for all of the normal occupants of the vehicle includes a training vehicle with all of the hardware for the operation and support of the vehicle in its normal field operation. The system also has the capability to simulate various different exterior environments along with a broad range of common battlefield conditions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 18, 2011
    Date of Patent: June 24, 2014
    Inventor: Ulf Henriksson
  • Publication number: 20140170601
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for managing data in a platform. A first permission level is identified for first data in the data generated by a source in the platform. A second permission level is identified for an intended recipient of the first data. The first data is modified to form second data in the data in which the second data has the second permission level. The second data is distributed to the intended recipient.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 13, 2012
    Publication date: June 19, 2014
    Applicant: THE BOEING COMPANY
    Inventor: The Boeing Company
  • Patent number: 8731736
    Abstract: A system for preventing driving skill atrophy comprises a trainer module that determines the driver's current skill level, disables certain automated features based on the determined skill level, and forces the driver to use and hone her driving skills. The system collects data to determine through on-board vehicle sensors how a driver is driving the vehicle. The system then compares the driver's current driving skills with the driver's historical driving skills or the general population's driving skills. Based on the comparison, the system determines whether the driver's skill level is stagnant, improving or deteriorating. If the skill level is improving, for example, the system disables certain automated driving features to give driver more control of the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 22, 2011
    Date of Patent: May 20, 2014
    Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Hsuan Chang
  • Patent number: 8714979
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for simulating a missile. A simulation program for a weapon using a processor unit is executed in a simulation unit. A number of input signals is received from a control station in a vehicle through an interface system connected to a weapons interface on the vehicle. The interface system is in communications with the processor unit. The control station is capable of operating the weapon connected to the weapons interface. A number of output signals is generated using a simulation of the weapon. The number of output signals is sent through the weapons interface to the control station.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 19, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 6, 2014
    Assignee: The Boeing Company
    Inventors: James Victor Leonard, Robert Kastner Menzel, Richard E. Meyer, Aaron L. Eggemeyer, Joshua Ryan Pollema, William J. Ebert, III
  • Patent number: 8704652
    Abstract: An information providing apparatus includes a tactile information provider and a controller. The tactile information provider is arranged within a rim portion of a steering wheel of a vehicle and provides a tactile sense to a driver. The controller controls the tactile information provider to provide support information to the driver. The support information is defined as information that supports a driving of the vehicle. The tactile information provider includes a trench arranged in a circumferential direction of the rim portion, a ring-shaped ring portion, and a driving portion. The ring portion is rotatably arranged in the trench and has an exposed surface such that the exposed surface contacts with at least one hand of the driver. The driving portion is controlled by the controller to drive the ring potion rotate in the circumferential direction to provide the support information to the driver.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 29, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 22, 2014
    Assignees: DENSO CORPORATION, Nippon Soken, Inc.
    Inventors: Norio Sanma, Sei Iguchi, Daisuke Sugiura
  • Publication number: 20140099606
    Abstract: Methods and systems for controlling vehicles within graphically simulated environments are described herein. A video game such as a vehicle-based combat game may have vehicles (such as airplanes) operating in a simulated three dimensional space. In a destination based control mode, users may partially control vehicles using two-dimensional input devices by inputting a new destination for the vehicle to go to, and the game's control logic may then automatically calculate how to control the vehicle toward the new heading. Fight and assault (bombing) control sub-modes may be provided. In addition, in an immediate control mode, a user may provide input that indicates a direction and speed of rotation, to provide more direct control of a vehicles control systems and/or control surfaces.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 15, 2013
    Publication date: April 10, 2014
    Applicant: WARGAMING.NET, LLP
    Inventor: Anton Sitnikau
  • Publication number: 20140087334
    Abstract: A device for spatially moving persons includes a first support element, which includes a retaining device for at least one person and which is rotatable about a first rotational axis relative to a second support element. A second support element rotatably mounted about a second rotational axis relative to a third support element. The first rotational axis and the second rotational axis are substantially orthogonal to each other. The device further includes an image playback surface. The retaining device has at least one rotational degree of freedom relative to the image playback surface.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 21, 2012
    Publication date: March 27, 2014
    Inventor: Richard Schlüsselberger
  • Publication number: 20140080098
    Abstract: Systems and methods for dynamically evaluating a test subject during operation/driving of a vehicle via an onboard evaluator are provided for herein. In particular, an onboard evaluator in the vehicle may be activated either automatically or manually by a user to dynamically evaluate the test subject of the vehicle and grade the test subject on his or her driving ability. Once the onboard evaluator has been activated, the location of the vehicle is preferably identified via a global positioning system (GPS) and local driving laws and rules are downloaded based on the identified location of the vehicle. The onboard evaluator then dynamically evaluates a test subject's driving skill set based on a test subject's driving acuity and performance. As the driving skill set is being evaluated, a processor continually calculates a driving grade/score for that particular test subject in relation to the test subject's evaluated driving skill set.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 14, 2012
    Publication date: March 20, 2014
    Applicants: HYUNDAI MOTOR COMPANY, HYUNDAI AMERICA TECHNICAL CENTER, INC., KIA MOTORS CORPORATION
    Inventor: Chadd I. Price
  • Patent number: 8608475
    Abstract: A motion simulator for transmitting motion with respect to a floor as a function of motion signals associated to a video output. The motion simulator comprises a seating portion for accommodating a viewer viewing the video output. Actuators each have a housing and an output shaft interrelated by a degree of freedom. Each of the actuators has a motor connected to the seating portion for displacing the housing with respect to the output shaft along the degree of freedom as a function of actuation from the actuators in relation to the motion signals. The housing of each of the actuators is secured to the seating portion. The output shaft of each of the actuators comprises a leg supporting the motion simulator on the floor, whereby the seating portion is movable as a function of actuation from the actuators.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 13, 2004
    Date of Patent: December 17, 2013
    Assignee: D-Box Technologies Inc.
    Inventors: Philippe Roy, Michel Bérubé
  • Publication number: 20130323686
    Abstract: A system and method is disclosed for correlation of received objects offering a valid presentation to an operator. The method correlates actual objects and simulated objects to offer a valuable training presentation environment to an operator. The method may receive a plurality of data streams including sensed data, simulated sensed data, and truth data to correlate among the plurality of data to determine if the data corresponds to a common object. Each of these data streams may be received from an off-board source via datalink or generated by an onboard simulation data source. The system correlates data received from an onboard source with data received from an off-board source to present the best available training scenario to the operator.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 10, 2012
    Publication date: December 5, 2013
    Applicant: ROCKWELL COLLINS, INC.
    Inventors: Jason C. Wenger, Jaclyn A. Hoke, Brian R. Wolford, Alex Postnikov, Thomas Schnell
  • Publication number: 20130323687
    Abstract: A training data management method and related system is disclosed comprising three integrated elements. A training data network may provide a network linking a remote instructor operating an off-board data network with a student operating an onboard data network. The remote instructor may, via the datalink connection, maintain a level of control of the data set available to the student. A method for providing training data may include an onboard and off-board safety monitor configured for perceiving a safety event and sending a notification thereof to an involved participant. A system for providing training data may include a data guard configured to monitor all communications between two networks and block sensitive information, training data, and classified communications between the networks.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 10, 2012
    Publication date: December 5, 2013
    Applicant: Rockwell Collins, Inc.
    Inventors: Jason C. Wenger, Jaclyn A. Hoke, Brian R. Wolford, Alex Postnikov, James N. Potts, Alex W. Halfpenny
  • Publication number: 20130302755
    Abstract: A system automatically generates a training lesson from a plurality of frames located within the storage. Each frame has a component of training. After operator-related data is collected from one or more vehicles, details of the operator-related data are saved. In some examples, the operator-related data correlates to a single operator (e.g. the driver, pilot, etc. that operated a known vehicle) while in other examples, the operator-related data correlates to several operators. Software selects at least one frame from the plurality of frames based upon the operator-related data and creates a lesson. The lesson, which includes the selected frame(s) from the plurality of frames, is provided to the operator or operators.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 11, 2013
    Publication date: November 14, 2013
    Inventors: James W. Voorhees, Nathan P. Stahlman, Aaron M. Purvis, Chad E. Schwendiman
  • Patent number: 8573976
    Abstract: The invention relates to an interactive driving assistance method. This method involves selecting a desired driving style, and analyzing (F1) a driver behavior during a detected life situation. From a memory (5), a recommended driver behavior is then selected for the current life situation corresponding to the desired driving style. The behavior of the driver is then compared (F1, 16) with the recommended behavior, and those aspects of the behavior which are considered to be improvable are identified. Finally an audio and/or video information message (7) is issued (F4, F5, 27) inviting the driver to correct his or her behavior on at least the most critical point.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 12, 2008
    Date of Patent: November 5, 2013
    Assignee: Peugeot Citroen Automobiles SA
    Inventors: Bruno Lecointre, Yves Francais
  • Patent number: 8538739
    Abstract: In an embodiment, input data is received from a user and reference data is calculated based on an original simulation state. An adjustment amount is determined based on the difference between the input data and the reference data. An event value is generated via a probability function, and the event value is adjusted by the adjustment amount into an adjusted event value. A next simulation state is then determined based on the adjusted event value, and the next simulation state is presented to a user. In an embodiment, the adjustment amount is proportional to the difference. In this way, direct and realistic feedback to the user is provided via the simulation state, which positively reinforces correct behavior and negatively reinforces incorrect behavior, more so than does an unadjusted simulation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 2007
    Date of Patent: September 17, 2013
    Assignee: International Business Machines Corporation
    Inventor: James Edward Woodbury
  • Patent number: 8506301
    Abstract: A transportable projection-based simulator is expanded on one or both sides. Bowl-like screen assemblies partially surround a mock cabin within the simulator. A combination of projectors and mirrors reflect images of a virtual landscape onto the screen assemblies. A trainee within the mock cabin can lean out of the mock cabin and look down at the image of the virtual landscape projected onto the portion of the screen assembly below without interfering with the projection of that image.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 31, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 13, 2013
    Inventors: Ivan John Jaszlics, Sheila Lynn Jaszlics, Scot David Sanders
  • Patent number: 8506300
    Abstract: The invention is embodied in the form of a flight simulator in the conditions of vortex danger and in conditions when a pilot is informed about the possibility to penetrate into said dangerous area of vortex sheddings produced by a vortex generator.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 25, 2003
    Date of Patent: August 13, 2013
    Assignees: Spetstekhnika, FSBI Falpiar
    Inventors: Nikolai Alekseevich Baranov, Andrei Sergeevich Belotserkovski, Mikhail Igorevich Kanevski, Igor Vladimirovich Pasekunov
  • Publication number: 20130196291
    Abstract: An activity device including an activity sensor for generating an activity interaction signal responsive to a sustained large-muscle physical activity of a user operating the activity device; a controller, coupled to the activity monitor, generating a virtual environment supporting a virtual user frame-of-reference in the virtual environment, the controller generating a set of virtual education elements in the environment and a goal for the set virtual representation with respect to the virtual education elements wherein the controller is responsive to the activity interaction signal to produce an affected interaction of the virtual representation with the virtual education elements with the controller measuring a conformation of the goal by the affected interaction; and a feedback system, coupled to the controller, for presenting the virtual environment with the frame-of-reference in relation to the virtual education elements for providing the user with feedback.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 11, 2013
    Publication date: August 1, 2013
    Inventor: H. Christian Hölljes
  • Patent number: 8485822
    Abstract: A simulation system for a machine is disclosed. The simulation system has a user interface configured to display a simulated environment, and a controller in communication with the user interface. The controller is configured to receive historical information related to performance of a machine, and recreate a past operation of the machine from the received historical information. The controller is also configured to provide to the user interface the recreated past operation for display in the simulated environment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 31, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 16, 2013
    Assignee: Caterpillar Inc.
    Inventor: Jeffrey D. Lind
  • Patent number: 8454366
    Abstract: An actuated support frame for transmitting motion to a seat with respect to a ground as a function of motion signals associated with video output, comprises a frame. The frame is expandable/retractable along translational degrees of freedom. Support surfaces are provided on the frame. The support surfaces are displaceable with respect to one another by expansion/retraction of the frame so as to be sized to support a seat. Actuators are provided between the frame and the ground. The actuators receive signals and selectively displace the frame with respect to the ground in synchronization with a video output, whereby a seat supported on the frame is displaceable within the frame. A method for installing a seating system of a motion simulator system is also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 30, 2005
    Date of Patent: June 4, 2013
    Assignee: D-Box Technologies Inc.
    Inventors: Gauthier Orban, Michel Bérubé, Philippe Roy
  • Publication number: 20130130206
    Abstract: An apparatus that enables one or more people to simulate on land the action of rowing on water, including the simulation of an oar blade entering into and being extracted from water that is moving relative to a boat, and including feedback on rowing performance and technique. The apparatus includes the same fundamental elements as a real rowing boat, with one or two oar handles 6 per person, a sliding seat 4, adjustable footplate 5 and rigging 7 that supports rowlocks. The inertia, momentum and drag of a real boat are simulated using a damped flywheel. The percentage of torque that is transmitted between each oar handle and this flywheel is controlled using magnetic clutches, and is based upon an analysis of the position and angle of each simulated oar blade.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 20, 2012
    Publication date: May 23, 2013
    Inventor: Christopher McGuirk Smith
  • Patent number: 8414299
    Abstract: A vehicle simulation system equipped to display information on the rear side of a driver (rider). The simulation system includes a dummy bicycle operated by the rider, a monitor on the front side for displaying a scene based on the operations of the dummy bicycle, and a lamp unit connected to the dummy bicycle and provided on the rear side relative to the seated position of the rider. The lamp unit has a red lamp, a yellow lamp and a green lamp, and is controlledly turned ON under the action of a main control unit. An input device is provided on a steering handle of the dummy bicycle. The input device has a switch for red, a switch for yellow, and a switch for green. The rider checks behind, and operates the input device according to the ON/OFF conditions of the lamp unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 15, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 9, 2013
    Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Sadanao Ichimi, Yukio Miyamaru
  • Patent number: 8408910
    Abstract: An activity device including an activity sensor for generating an activity interaction signal responsive to a sustained large-muscle physical activity of a user operating the activity device; a controller, coupled to the activity monitor, generating a virtual environment supporting a virtual user frame-of-reference in the virtual environment, the controller generating a set of virtual education elements in the environment and a goal for the set virtual representation with respect to the virtual education elements wherein the controller is responsive to the activity interaction signal to produce an affected interaction of the virtual representation with the virtual education elements with the controller measuring a conformation of the goal by the affected interaction; and a feedback system, coupled to the controller, for presenting the virtual environment with the frame-of-reference in relation to the virtual education elements for providing the user with feedback.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 23, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 2, 2013
    Inventor: H. Christian Hölljes
  • Patent number: 8393902
    Abstract: The invention relates to a method to control the movements of a flight simulator involving linear and angular accelerations perceived at a pilot's seat and involving mathematical transformations of a lateral position y and a roll angle ? for said accelerations, wherein mathematical transformations are used with at least one of the following corrections: —Feed-forward of a specific force error due to the y-position wash-out into a roll angle transformation function; —Decomposition of specific force at pilot's position and addition of complementary filters to reproduce suitable side forces in the pilot's seat due to lateral accelerations; —Mathematical transformations linking a pilot's position in an aircraft and flight simulator to a motion base centroid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 12, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 12, 2013
    Assignee: W.ING.S. sprl
    Inventor: Filip VanBiervliet
  • Patent number: 8360777
    Abstract: Systems and methods for use in training observers and search and rescue personnel in detecting and identifying visual cues related to potential threats to aircraft and to ground based search and rescue circumstances. A visual display displays a scene generated by a visual scene generator apparatus. A vision limiting device is placed between the trainee and the visual display and the trainee can only see a limited amount of the visual display through a window on the vision limiting device. The limited view of the scene afforded the trainee will force the trainee to move around at various angles to see more of the scene as he normally would in real life.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 25, 2008
    Date of Patent: January 29, 2013
    Assignee: Her Majesty the Queen in Right of Canada as Represented by the Minister of the Department of National Defence
    Inventors: Stuart Grant, Tony Ghoman, Don Turner
  • Publication number: 20130022945
    Abstract: A display system for displaying a layout of controls in a simulator including at least one of an information display, a switch such as a toggle or push-button switch, and a monitoring device such as an indicator, or a gauge, for a vehicle, the display system including a touch sensitive screen which is generally transparent over a significant portion of its area, and a plurality of projectors which project onto a back of the screen, images of the vehicle controls, the projectors each being operatively connected to a computer controller which responds to the front of the screen being touched where a depicted control is displayed, to change the display in a manner to mimic the result of a corresponding actual vehicle control being operated.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 20, 2012
    Publication date: January 24, 2013
    Inventor: Keith David STICKELS
  • Patent number: 8355897
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a method for generating motion controls for a mobile platform of a vehicle simulator. The method uses, as input, accelerations calculated by a process for simulating the behavior of the vehicle. The method according to the invention comprises the steps of: filtering the accelerations calculated accelerations by use of a filter constructed according to a mathematical model of human perception of a motion; calculating successive positions of the mobile platform as a function of the filtered acceleration controls; scaling the positions of the mobile platform as a function of physical limitations of the mobile platform, to produce scaled successive positions of the mobile platform; and calculating acceleration controls to be applied by the mobile platform, as a function of the scaled successive positions of the mobile platform, to produce calculated acceleration controls.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 14, 2009
    Date of Patent: January 15, 2013
    Assignee: Thales
    Inventors: Nathan Morali, Serge Couvet
  • Patent number: 8337206
    Abstract: The invention relates to a tool (10) for assisting in the design of an aircraft flight deck compatible with a night vision system, comprising a closed chamber (12) functioning as a dark room and containing: a mockup (14) that reproduces the interior of a flight deck and is representative of the visual characteristics of the station, the mockup integrating equipment items that are representative of a flight deck and that are capable of reproducing a plurality of possible illumination configurations of the flight deck on command, a light source (22) capable of reproducing at least one level of darkness in the chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 25, 2012
    Assignee: Airbus Operations SAS
    Inventor: Bruno Taffet
  • Patent number: 8333592
    Abstract: The present invention provides a video-captured model vehicle simulator including at least one model vehicle, a track layout, at least one video imaging unit, at least one computer, at least one input device and/or control system and a customised software application whereby the simulator provides a user with a realistic simulation of the operation of a vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 6, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 18, 2012
    Inventor: Andrew Warburton Swan
  • Publication number: 20120308964
    Abstract: A system automatically generates a remedial training lesson from a plurality of frames located within the storage. Each frame has a component of training. After an incident occurs (e.g. accident, violation, citation, etc.), details of the incident are saved. The incident is associated with a person (e.g. the driver, pilot, etc. that had the incident). Software runs on a computer system and selects at least one remedial frame from the plurality of frames based upon data within the details of the incident and creates a remedial lesson. The remedial lesson, which includes the selected frame(s) from the plurality of frames, is provided to the person.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 6, 2011
    Publication date: December 6, 2012
    Applicant: INSTRUCTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES, INC.
    Inventors: James W. Voorhees, Nathan P. Stahlman, Aaron M. Purvis
  • Patent number: 8323024
    Abstract: A system for controlling signals coming from or going to an aircraft simulator has a first slave circuit and a second slave circuit. The second slave circuit is used to monitor signals coming from the aircraft simulator. A multiplexer circuit is coupled to the first slave circuit. The first slave circuit sends control signals to the multiplexer circuit for controlling digital output signals being sent to the aircraft simulator. A master controller is coupled to the first slave circuit and the second slave circuit. The master controller is used for controlling operation of the first and second slave circuit. A computer system is coupled to the master controller. The computer system will display a listing of the aircraft simulator signals to be controlled. Selection of a desired aircraft simulator signal by an input device of the computer system will allow one to control the selected aircraft simulator signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 13, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 4, 2012
    Assignee: The Boeing Company
    Inventor: Tracy R. Davidson
  • Patent number: 8300844
    Abstract: A sensor is provided in a machine having a continuously variable transmission, for example, and the amount of force exerted by the machine against a load is sensed. Based on the sensed power, an appropriate audio signal is generated which simulates the sounds an operator would expect to hear when such force is applied with a machine having a conventional geared transmission. The sounds can include engine noises, as well as sounds associated with the flow of oil or other hydraulic fluids. In addition, the sounds can be generated from digitally pre-recorded audible data, or can be output based on calculated audible data. User controls are also provided to adjust the volume and frequency or pitch of the generated sounds.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 5, 2006
    Date of Patent: October 30, 2012
    Assignee: Caterpillar Inc.
    Inventors: Kent A. Casey, Norval P. Thomson, Vernon R. Smith
  • Patent number: 8241038
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a simulator comprising at least one projector arranged to project an image, and a non-spherical, generally continuous, dome-like projection surface on which the image is displayed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 7, 2006
    Date of Patent: August 14, 2012
    Assignee: Lockheed Martin Corporation
    Inventors: Edward W. Quinn, Randall W. Wallace, Michael R. Vogel, Jason L. Seeliger
  • Publication number: 20120191343
    Abstract: A method of operation of a navigation system includes: generating a maneuver instruction for a driving maneuver, the maneuver instruction including an explanation of how to turn, merge, park or operate a driver's vehicle; monitoring a maneuver attempt for a compliance to the maneuver instruction; modifying the maneuver instruction based on the maneuver attempt; assigning a driver skill grade for the maneuver attempt based on the compliance to the maneuver instruction; and generating a training feedback to improve the driver skill grade of the maneuver attempt for displaying on a device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 20, 2011
    Publication date: July 26, 2012
    Applicant: TELENAV, INC.
    Inventor: Ambreen Haleem
  • Patent number: 8155503
    Abstract: A method (400) of displaying video data using a video recording system (100). The method (400) records a first stream of video data captured by a first camera (e.g., 103) and a first event associated with the first camera (103). The method records a second stream of video data captured by a second camera (e.g., 104) and a second event associated with the second camera (104). A playback speed is determined based at least on a difference between a current play time position and a time position of a nearest one of the first event and the second event. The first stream and the second stream of video data are displayed in a synchronized manner. The first stream of video data and the second stream of video data are displayed at the playback speed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 10, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 10, 2012
    Assignee: Canon Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Rajanish Calisa, Xin Yu Liu
  • Patent number: 8147247
    Abstract: Systems and methods are described for creating and delivering courses of personalized traffic safety instruction. Instruction courses are generated based on combinations of identifying information and demographic information of a student, one or more citations issued to the student and State requirements for coursework required in traffic school, including courses associated with the one or more citations. The course of instruction includes required and elective materials and typically is configured to meet a minimum time requirement. Citations associated with the student can be retrieved from government databases and course requirements associated with citations can be obtained from Courts and State agencies. Systems are described whereby instruction is delivered to the student using a computer system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 27, 2006
    Date of Patent: April 3, 2012
    Inventor: Carl Reese
  • Publication number: 20120070804
    Abstract: A method, simulator and program for simulating vehicular movement based upon user input parameters related to simulation topology and simulation vehicles including, but not limited to linear vehicular density. The simulator generates the simulation topology having a simulation area using the user input parameters, places a plurality of simulation vehicles within the simulation area at an initial placement using at least two input parameters related to simulation vehicle and the generated simulation topology; and determines movement of the plurality of simulation vehicles starting with the initial placement using a plurality of movement models. Each of the plurality of simulation vehicles has mobility characteristics generated using the plurality of movement models. When vehicle moves outside the simulation area, the vehicle re-emerges at a location within the simulation area. The vehicle re-emerges with new movement characteristics.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 22, 2010
    Publication date: March 22, 2012
    Applicants: TOYOTA INFOTECHNOLOGY CENTER, U.S.A., INC., TELCORDIA TECHNOLOGIES, INC.
    Inventors: Marcus Pang, Wai Chen, Jasmine Chennikara-Varghese, Ratul Guha, John Lee, Rama Vuyyuru, Junichiro Fukuyama
  • Patent number: 8137203
    Abstract: A virtual-space hazard assessment system, for use in a virtual space, having target identifying information that identifies a target that appears in the virtual space. The system includes: a hazard-rating-request receiver for receiving a hazard rating request to rate the degree of hazard of the target; hazard storage for storing a table in which the degree of hazard of the target and the target identifying information are associated with each other; a hazard-degree increasing mechanism for increasing the degree of hazard of the target stored in the table in the hazard storage according to the degree of hazard received by the hazard-rating-request receiver; a hazard-degree decreasing mechanism for decreasing the degree of hazard stored in the table in the hazard storage with the elapse of time; and hazard-information-output instructing mechanism for issuing an instruction to output hazard information stored in the hazard storage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 26, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 20, 2012
    Assignee: International Business Machines Corporation
    Inventors: Megumi Nakamura, Mika Saito
  • Patent number: 8123527
    Abstract: An activity device including an activity sensor generating an activity interaction signal responsive to a sustained large-muscle physical activity of a user operating the activity device; a controller, coupled to the activity monitor, generating a virtual environment supporting a virtual user frame-of-reference in the virtual environment, the controller generating a set of virtual education elements in the environment and a goal for the set virtual representation with respect to the virtual education elements wherein the controller is responsive to the activity interaction signal to produce an affected interaction of the virtual representation with the virtual education elements with the controller measuring a conformation of the goal by the affected interaction; and a feedback system, coupled to the controller, presenting the virtual environment with the frame-of-reference in relation to the virtual education elements providing the user with feedback regarding the goal and the conformation of the goal by the
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 1, 2007
    Date of Patent: February 28, 2012
    Inventor: H. Christian Hölljes
  • Patent number: 8083186
    Abstract: Input/steering mechanisms and aircraft control systems are provided. In an embodiment, by way of example only, an input/steering mechanism is provided for use with an aircraft control system. The input/steering mechanism includes a yoke that includes a hub, an alphanumeric keyboard, and a first grip surface. The alphanumeric keyboard is disposed on a face of the hub and is adapted to receive a manual input from a user and to transmit an output signal to the aircraft control system in response to the manual input. The first grip surface is formed on an outer periphery of the hub and is contoured to correspond with one or more fingers of the user, the first grip surface is formed such that a thumb of the user is positioned to rest in proximity to at least a portion of the alphanumeric keyboard when the one or more fingers grip the first grip surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 4, 2008
    Date of Patent: December 27, 2011
    Assignee: Honeywell International Inc.
    Inventors: John G. Suddreth, Aaron Gannon
  • Patent number: 8081921
    Abstract: A low-cost training and synthetic visualization system and method directed to improving an individual's airborne performance in general aviation, skydiving, and other aerial applications. The system is comprised of a self-contained mobile sensor and data storage device for recording the travel path, orientation, and forces acting upon an object as it moves through space, a desktop graphics software program for creating a playback of the recorded data on a three-dimensional representation of the environment through which the object moved, a means of linking the sensor and data storage device to the software program for the purpose of exchanging information, and a centralized data storage and retrieval system designed to accept, assimilate and redistribute the recorded data.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 7, 2010
    Date of Patent: December 20, 2011
    Assignee: Appareo Systems, LLC
    Inventors: Barry Douglas Batcheller, Tyler Chris Ohlsen
  • Patent number: 8033830
    Abstract: A vehicle simulation system equipped to display information on the rear side of a driver (rider). The simulation system includes a dummy bicycle operated by the rider, a monitor on the front side for displaying a scene based on the operations of the dummy bicycle, and a lamp unit connected to the dummy bicycle and provided on the rear side relative to the seated position of the rider. The lamp unit has a red lamp, a yellow lamp and a green lamp, and is controlledly turned ON under the action of a main control unit. An input device is provided on a steering handle of the dummy bicycle. The input device has a switch for red, a switch for yellow, and a switch for green. The rider checks behind, and operates the input device according to the ON/OFF conditions of the lamp unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 26, 2006
    Date of Patent: October 11, 2011
    Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Sadanao Ichimi, Yukio Miyamaru
  • Patent number: 7990306
    Abstract: A radio control transmitter for a model is disclosed wherein a control range is limited to not to exceed a maximum control range without using a mechanical means. In accordance with the transmitter, an added control range being a sum of two or more of the control ranges is calculated, whether the added control range exceeds a maximum control range set to correspond to the operating section of the object to be controlled is determined, and the control range is corrected when the added control range exceeds the maximum control range.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 6, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 2, 2011
    Assignee: Futaba Corporation
    Inventors: Michio Yamamoto, Kota Toyotomi