Tracing Or Duplicating Patents (Class 700/161)
  • Patent number: 10739734
    Abstract: A motor control apparatus including a controller that controls a servo motor or a spindle motor and includes a switching determining part that determines a switching condition of the controller based on axis position information on a motor related to control of the motor control apparatus, a machine learning part that adjusts one or more parameters for the controller by machine learning for each switching condition, and a parameter holding part that holds the parameter adjusted by the machine learning part for each switching condition. The switching determining part, when determining the switching condition after adjustment of the parameter, uses the adjusted parameter corresponding to the switching condition in the controller. The apparatus enables changing, and automatic adjustment, of a parameter or controller to be used depending on a switching condition of the parameter related to axis position information or a switching condition of the controller using the parameter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 16, 2019
    Date of Patent: August 11, 2020
    Assignee: FANUC CORPORATION
    Inventors: Ryoutarou Tsuneki, Satoshi Ikai, Takaki Shimoda
  • Patent number: 10480214
    Abstract: Some of the inventive concepts described herein include a data key having a computer readable medium containing information indicative of a bitting pattern for a master key. The bitting pattern on the data key may be downloadable to a key cutting device to cut a duplicate key that has the same bitting pattern as the master key. In addition, a method of creating a data key is also provided herein. The method includes identifying a type of key; identifying a bitting pattern; and storing the type of key blank required and bitting pattern to be cut in the key blank on a computer readable medium.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 7, 2018
    Date of Patent: November 19, 2019
    Assignee: HY-KO PRODUCTS COMPANY
    Inventors: Michael A. Bass, Sandra Dively, Robert Steinberg, Richard W. Ryai
  • Patent number: 9864433
    Abstract: Described herein is a method for enabling human-to-computer three-dimensional hand gesture-based natural interactions from depth images provided by a range finding imaging system. The method enables recognition of simultaneous gestures from detection, tracking and analysis of singular points of interests on a single hand of a user and provides contextual feedback information to the user. The singular points of interest of the hand: include hand tip(s), fingertip(s), palm center and center of mass of the hand, and are used for defining at least one representation of a pointer. The point(s) of interest is/are tracked over time and are analyzed to enable the determination of sequential and/or simultaneous “pointing” and “activation” gestures performed by a single hand.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 12, 2013
    Date of Patent: January 9, 2018
    Assignee: SoftKinetic Software
    Inventors: Gilles Pinault, Utku Salihoglu, Carlos Souza, Julien Thollot, Laurent Guigues
  • Patent number: 9619433
    Abstract: A normal-line detection method for finding the normal vector of a measurement surface of a measurement target by means of at least one distance detector and calculating the normal vector from the measurement results thus obtained is provided. The normal vector of the measurement surface is found by calculating the exterior product of a first vector which connects a first measurement point and a second measurement point and a second vector which connects a third measurement point and a fourth measurement point and is shifted in parallel such that an end thereof is set at any one of the first measurement point and the second measurement point.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 27, 2013
    Date of Patent: April 11, 2017
    Assignee: MITSUBISHI HEAVY INDUSTRIES, LTD.
    Inventors: Yoshihito Fujita, Mikio Nakamura, Hirofumi Ienaga
  • Publication number: 20150088299
    Abstract: A method for machining a selected part with a machine tool, comprises obtaining a master part replicating at least a portion of a geometry of a selected part. The master part is loaded in a machine tool. A signature of the machine tool is defined by measuring at least dimensional data of the master part relative to the machine tool, the dimensional data being limited to a selected-part-specific working volume substantially smaller than a complete working volume of the machine tool. The machine tool is certified as being within tolerances to machine the selected part within the working volume, using the dimensional data of the signature. The selected part is machined from a workpiece with the machine tool.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 25, 2013
    Publication date: March 26, 2015
    Applicant: Pratt & Whitney Canada Corp.
    Inventors: Mario Blais, Philippe St-Jacques
  • Patent number: 8979446
    Abstract: A self-service, fully-automatic kiosk for duplicating keys includes a kiosk housing having a customer interface for receiving payment from a customer for the purchase of at least one duplicate of the customer's key. A key-receiving entry in the housing receives at least a portion of the customer's key to be duplicated, and a key analysis system within the housing analyzes the blade of a key inserted in the key-receiving entry to determine whether the inserted key matches one of a group of preselected key types and, if so, which preselected key type is matched. A key blank magazine within the housing stores key blanks for each of the preselected key types. A key blank extraction system extracts from the magazine a key blank for the preselected key type matched by the blade of the key inserted in the key-receiving entry. Then a key duplicating system within the kiosk replicates the tooth pattern of the blade of the key inserted in the key-receiving entry, on the blade of the extracted key blank.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 3, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 17, 2015
    Assignee: Minute Key Inc.
    Inventor: Daniel Freeman
  • Patent number: 8682468
    Abstract: Systems and methods for duplicating keys are provided. In some embodiments, a systems for creating keys are provided, the systems comprising: at least one hardware processor that: receives security information from a user; and receives geometric information about a first key associated with the security information from a storage device; and a key shaping device that creates a second key using the geometric information.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 4, 2013
    Date of Patent: March 25, 2014
    Assignee: KeyMe, Inc.
    Inventors: Gregory Marsh, Kristopher Borer, Zachary Salzbank, Jayeon Kim, Paige Pruitt
  • Publication number: 20140031970
    Abstract: To generate a control command for performing machining while reducing useless machining as much as possible, in an automatic programming apparatus, a machining-process-data generating/editing unit generates machining shapes (second machining shapes) for each of machining processes from each of an externally-input plurality of machining shapes (first machining shapes), a tool/machining order/tool direction editing unit 4 receives an input of execution order of the machining processes, a machining-process adjusting unit deforms, concerning a plurality of machining shapes having a same tool direction among the second machining shapes, one machining shape among the plurality of machining shapes such that machining can be executed in the input execution order (step S1722), deletes, from another machining shape that overlaps the one machining shape because of the deformation of the one machining shape, a portion of the overlap (step S1724), and generates a third machining shape, and a control-command generating uni
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 23, 2011
    Publication date: January 30, 2014
    Applicant: MITSUBISHI ELECTRIC CORPORATION
    Inventors: Susumu Matsubara, Kenji Iriguchi, Daisuke Fujino, Tomonori Sato
  • Patent number: 8634951
    Abstract: A self-service, fully-automatic kiosk for duplicating keys includes a kiosk housing having a customer interface for receiving payment from a customer for the purchase of at least one duplicate of the customer's key. A key analysis system within the housing analyzes the blade of a key inserted in the key-receiving entry to determine whether the inserted key matches one of a group of preselected key types and, if so, which preselected key type is matched. A key blank extraction system extracts from a magazine within the kiosk a key blank for the preselected key type matched by the blade of the key inserted in the key-receiving entry. Then a key duplicating system within the kiosk replicates the tooth pattern of the blade of the key inserted in the key-receiving entry, on the blade of the extracted key blank. The kiosk includes a processor coupled to sensors and controllable devices within the kiosk and to a communications port for communicating with a remote central server.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 8, 2011
    Date of Patent: January 21, 2014
    Assignee: Minute Key Inc.
    Inventor: Daniel Freeman
  • Patent number: 8626331
    Abstract: Systems and methods for managing key information are provided. In some embodiments, systems for managing key information are provided, the systems comprising: at least one hardware processor that: receives security information from a user; receives an image of a first key; determines geometric information about the first key based on the image; causes the geometric information about the first key to be stored in a storage device in association with at least a portion of the security information from the user; and causes the geometric information about the first key to be retrieved from the storage device upon validating at least the portion of the security information for use in creating a second key.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 4, 2013
    Date of Patent: January 7, 2014
    Assignee: KeyMe, Inc.
    Inventors: Gregory Marsh, Kristopher Borer, Zachary Salzbank, Jayeon Kim, Paige Pruitt
  • Patent number: 8532809
    Abstract: A self-service, fully-automatic kiosk for duplicating keys includes a kiosk housing having a customer interface for receiving payment from a customer for the purchase of at least one duplicate of the customer's key. A key analysis system within the housing analyzes the blade of a key inserted in the key-receiving entry to determine whether the inserted key matches one of a group of preselected key types and, if so, which preselected key type is matched. A key blank extraction system extracts from a magazine within the kiosk a key blank for the preselected key type matched by the blade of the key inserted in the key-receiving entry. Then a key duplicating system within the kiosk replicates the tooth pattern of the blade of the key inserted in the key-receiving entry, on the blade of the extracted key blank.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 16, 2013
    Date of Patent: September 10, 2013
    Assignee: Minute Key Inc.
    Inventor: Daniel Freeman
  • Patent number: 8423167
    Abstract: For use in connection with evaluating prosthetic sockets (and other objects) designed and fabricated with computer aided design and manufacturing software, the shape of a socket is accurately scanned and digitized. The scanned data are then compared to either an electronic shape data file, or to the shape of another socket, a positive model of a residual limb (or socket), or a residual limb. Differences detected during the comparison can then be applied to revise the design or fabrication of the socket, to more accurately achieve a desired shape that properly fits the residual limb of a patient and can be used to solve the inverse problem by correcting for observed errors of a specific fabricator before a socket is produced. The digitizing process is implemented using a stylus ball that contacts a surface of the socket to produce data indicating the three-dimensional shape of the socket.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 22, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 16, 2013
    Assignee: University of Washington
    Inventors: Joan E. Sanders, Michael R. Severance, Timothy R. Myers, George Turkiyyah, Elizabeth A. Sorenson, Ellen L. Lee
  • Patent number: 8103375
    Abstract: A method for finishing a part having excess material includes generating one or more surfaces on a model of the part to be machined, creating a machining tool path drive geometry, using the machine tool path drive geometry and one or more surfaces on the model to be machined to generate machining tool paths on the surfaces; and running tool paths on the part in a fixture.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 14, 2008
    Date of Patent: January 24, 2012
    Assignee: General Electric Company
    Inventors: Randall Maurice Ouellette, Jeffrey Robert Close, James Henry Madge
  • Patent number: 8055375
    Abstract: A guidance system of an industrial process captures process parameter data that is correlated with a human-machine interface (HMI) in order to learn how an experienced operator selects visualizations of key performance indicators (KPI) in order to take a corrective action to address an abnormal or non-optimal performance condition. Such solution learning can be invoked to recognize onset of another similar occurrence and responding by suggesting visualizations utilized by the experienced operator to diagnose the problem. Analytics can further determine which visualizations provided useful information relative to the problem. In addition, the corrective action can be suggested or automatically implemented.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 2008
    Date of Patent: November 8, 2011
    Assignee: Rockwell Automation Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Jan Pingel, Micheal John Pantaleano, Bruce Gordon Fuller, Robert Joseph McGreevy, Ian Edward Tooke, Kevin John Albert, John Joseph Baier
  • Patent number: 7852031
    Abstract: A machine tool capable of automatically correcting an orientation of a workpiece or machining attachment based on detection results from position detectors that the machine tool inherently has. The machine tool comprises: position detectors; position deviation determining means; contact detection means that detects a contact between a probe and a surface of the workpiece or the machining attachment based on a position deviation; movable axis stopping means; coordinate value detection means; inclination determining means; and correction means. The inclination determining means moves linear axes to perform detection of contacts between the probe and the surface of the workpiece or the machining attachment at least two different points, and determines an inclination of the workpiece or the machining attachment using the obtained coordinate values. The correction means corrects a mounting error of the workpiece or the machining attachment, or corrects the machining program based on the determined inclination.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 18, 2008
    Date of Patent: December 14, 2010
    Assignee: Fanuc Ltd
    Inventors: Yonpyo Hon, Kenzo Ebihara, Tomohiko Kawai
  • Patent number: 7668616
    Abstract: A method of replacing an existing part or parts on a structure such as an aircraft. The structure is inducted for modification. An existing part is removed and a new part is temporarily installed. Hole locations are digitally transferred to the new part, e.g., photographically captured in a three-dimensional coordinate measurement system, converted to targets printable in a laser projection system. Targets are laser projected or printed on the replacement part. Holes are drilled at each printed target. The holes drilled at printed targets match hole locations on the existing part. Then, the new/replacement part is permanently attached to the structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 23, 2007
    Date of Patent: February 23, 2010
    Assignee: The Boeing Company
    Inventors: Michael L. Piasse, Craig M. Farniok, Richard J. Steckel, Orval M. Nobles
  • Patent number: 7606630
    Abstract: There is described a method for electronically operating a machine tool which comprises an electronic machine tool control and is positioned on a working place. Said machine tool is connected, through a data connection, to a server platform which is independent of the working place and on which software model algorithms run for simulating the machine tool behavior. For this purpose, said algorithms effect back the machine behavior in such a way that when process data items available through the data connection are deviated, process data items modified by calculated set values are transmitted through the data switch to the machine tool control and are used thereby. The machine tool control is carried out in sections, i.e. the section(s) are meaningfully considered on the basis of the software models of the machine tool behavior remotely from the software platform.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 27, 2006
    Date of Patent: October 20, 2009
    Assignee: Siemens Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventor: Volker Maier
  • Patent number: 7513027
    Abstract: A process for machining a blank from all directions with a machine tool, such as a milling machine, involves the machining from all directions being based on a three-dimensional template. In a first step, the three-dimensional form and, if need be, also the surface finish of the three-dimensional template may be automatically measured, and the associated data may be saved. In a second step, a blank may be held by at least one clamping adapter and a first region is brought into its final, ready to use partial form by the machine tool or the milling machine using said data for numerical control. In a third step, the partially machined blank may be held by at least one clamping adapter in the first, finally machined region and the remaining region may be brought into its final, ready to use overall form by the same machine tool or milling machine.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 29, 2005
    Date of Patent: April 7, 2009
    Assignee: ALSTOM Technology Ltd
    Inventors: Hans Volker Boehm, Volker Dietmar Harr, Josef Scherer
  • Patent number: 7317992
    Abstract: A method and tooling for inspecting a contour of an edge of a cutout formed in a disk, each cutout fixedly receiving a turbine blade. A first device receives the disk containing the cutouts. A second device has a sensor associated with the movement of an instrument, the first device securing the disk at a predetermined orientation to the sensor. The disk is secured to the first device, the instrument being directed along the cutout defining a path substantially parallel to a surface of the contour, the instrument remaining in physical contact with the surface of the contour. The sensor transmits a signal associated with instrument movement to an algorithm to convert the signal to two-dimensional positions along the tangent path along the surface of the contour. The acceptability of the edge contour of the cutout is determined by comparing the two-dimensional positions to predetermined ranges of values.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 16, 2004
    Date of Patent: January 8, 2008
    Assignee: General Electric Company
    Inventors: Jason Brian Fascinato, Timothy M. Martinkovic
  • Patent number: 7284937
    Abstract: A pulse generation means that generates a pulse each time an XY movable member moves linearly by a certain amount relative to a base is provided. A workpiece and a light and dark pattern member are provided on the base. A tool, a light and dark pattern scanning sensor that scans the light and dark pattern and outputs a scanning signal, and a cutting means that moves the tool with respect to the workpiece in a cutting depth direction, orthogonal to the linear motion direction, are provided on the XY movable member. While the XY movable member moves relative to the base, the tool is moved by the cutting means in accordance with a logical AND operation performed on the scanning signal from the light and dark pattern scanning sensor and the pulse from the pulse generation means to perform machining.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 21, 2006
    Date of Patent: October 23, 2007
    Assignee: Fanuc Ltd
    Inventors: Tomohiko Kawai, Kenzo Ebihara
  • Patent number: 7245977
    Abstract: A method facilitates mass customization of an object by generating a template representing data common to the object; generating specific data to customize the object in conjunction with the template; and fabricating a customized version of the object.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 20, 2000
    Date of Patent: July 17, 2007
    Assignee: Align Technology, Inc.
    Inventor: Barry A. Simkins
  • Patent number: 7231277
    Abstract: In a state of separating a front end face of an air injecting nozzle 23 from a worked work W by a predetermined interval h, the air injecting nozzle 23 is moved at a constant speed in an X axis direction, injects air from an injecting hole 27a of a nozzle main body 27 and is moved to pass centers O1, O2 of worked holes Wb, Wc of the work W. A variation in a pressure is measured by a pressure measuring unit 30. X axis coordinates of the centers O1, O2 of the holes Wb, Wc, a hole diameter E and a center interval distance D1 are calculated based on coordinates of center points T1, T2 of inclined portions Ld, Lu of a curve Lx of the pressure relative to the measured X axis coordinate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 9, 2005
    Date of Patent: June 12, 2007
    Assignee: Nippei Toyama Corporation
    Inventors: Yukio Kawasaki, Teruhiro Nishizaki, Shiro Murai, Hisao Sasaki
  • Patent number: 7225050
    Abstract: A high-technology method for creating, reproducing, and or precisely fitting custom appendages to topographically complex structures. The method comprises a combination of novel measurement techniques in conjunction with computerized modeling and machining processes applied to achieve a virtually perfect tailored fit with mating structures. The method does not require the physical presence of the mating structure so the modeling and machining operations may be conducted at a separate location based solely on parametric dimensional and/or graphical data inputs and a customized data form. Said data may be transmitted conventionally or electronically as by fax or the internet. The invention includes a printed virtual protractor tool (16) for accurately measuring angles. A means for direct digitization of the required topological data input is also provided. The novel aspects of this invention can be combined with conventional fitting equipment and processes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 4, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 29, 2007
    Inventor: Daniel P. Sutula, Jr.
  • Patent number: 7123983
    Abstract: A system and process for creating custom fit artificial fingernails using a non-contact measuring device is disclosed. A fingernail is measured for its topographical configuration by an optical non-contact measuring device. The measured topography of the fingernail is then used to direct a machining device to create an artificial fingernail. Also disclosed is a method to digitally design an artificial fingernail, which has a portion of its under surface fitted to the natural fingernail by using a special computer program. The three-dimensional shape information of the digitally designed artificial fingernail is then converted into machine codes to drive a computer numerical controllable device, which will then cut the artificial fingernail from a piece of raw material. Finally, the user selected nail art can be printed onto the artificial fingernail by using a nail art printing device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 13, 2003
    Date of Patent: October 17, 2006
    Assignee: MiiC America, Inc.
    Inventors: Teruaki Yogo, Yong Li, Kazuhiro Hoki
  • Patent number: 7103441
    Abstract: A method for calibration of grinding and/or erosion machines assumes an initial calibration process and corresponding re-calibration processes. Calibration of the machine is performed with a reference piece and a reference tracer in an initial calibration process. Grinding tests follow the first tracing process from all directions during which tests deviations are determined and made ineffective with the iterative procedure. The machine-internal measuring system is calibrated immediately after performing the machining tests and thereby immediately after the initial referencing of the machining apparatus whereby the machine tracer and a test piece is traced from all coordinate directions and the resulting position values are stored. Subsequent re-calibrations supply measured values, which are compared to the stored values whereby correction values are determined then from the deviations for additional machining of workpieces.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 5, 2004
    Date of Patent: September 5, 2006
    Assignee: Walter Maschinenbau GmbH
    Inventors: Thomas Engelfried, Heinz Häckh, Christian Dilger
  • Patent number: 7082349
    Abstract: A machining apparatus capable of easily machining a workpiece to reproduce a shape of a machining model or with alternation of a scale in a scanning or profiling direction. A non-contact displacement gauge is fixed to one surface of a tool rest, and a tool to the other surface. A machining model is disposed opposite to the displacement gauge, and a workpiece opposite to the tool. The displacement gauge measures distance to the machining model which is measured by using a probe and outputs an output signal. The output signal is amplified by using an amplifier to drive an actuator that projects the tool. The amplification degree of the amplifier is designed to be adjustable. By so doing, the workpiece can be machined with alternation of the scanning or profiling scale in relation to the machining model.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 9, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 25, 2006
    Assignee: Fanuc LTD
    Inventors: Tomohiko Kawai, Kenzo Ebihara
  • Patent number: 6832877
    Abstract: A dental measuring and machining system includes a measuring and machining unit for preparing measurement data by measuring a prosthesis model based on a predetermined algorithm and for producing a prosthesis by machining a prosthesis block based on the above measurement data, and an operating unit for operating the measuring and machining unit from the outside. A user is able to produce a dental prosthesis by operating the measuring and machining unit under the control of a computer. The measuring and machining unit is connected to the external operating unit by communication, and the measuring and machining unit can be operated from the outside.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 26, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 21, 2004
    Assignee: Kabushiki Kaisya Advance
    Inventor: Hiroaki Hamada
  • Patent number: 6820346
    Abstract: An exemplary embodiment of the invention is a method of providing an executable program from an executable program provider to a customer for use in a controller of a three dimensional coordinate measurement system. The method includes receiving a request to create an executable program from a customer and obtaining information related to the executable program. The executable program is developed which guides an operator through a number of measurement steps to be performed with the three dimensional coordinate measuring system. The executable program is delivered to the customer over a network.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 26, 2003
    Date of Patent: November 23, 2004
    Assignee: Faro Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Simon Raab, Daniel Perreault, Shaun Mymudes, Scott Adams, Orlando Perez, Ken Steffey, Robert Pearce, Paul Atwell
  • Publication number: 20040220692
    Abstract: The present invention provides a method and system for creating customized packing for an item to be packed. An image of the item is created and an outline of the image is traced. The packing material is then cut to conform to the outline. In accordance with further aspects of the invention, the image is converted to an outline form by a raster-to-vector conversion. In further aspects of the invention, multiple outlines are configured in a packing configuration. The configurations may be edited and stored. In other aspects, manufacturing of customized packing for tools and tool kit management may be performed by the method of the current invention.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 30, 2003
    Publication date: November 4, 2004
    Inventors: Robert D. Shenefelt, Gary L. Perkins, Roxanne M. Fairfax
  • Patent number: 6801829
    Abstract: The key plate image (141), a guide lines (142) and (143) for specifying the position and the depth of cutting a key groove is formed, and the shape of a key groove (144) are displayed on a Web screen. Then, instructions about the shape of a key groove and the area where the key groove is formed are received in order so as to create an image of the key to be registered. The information of the key is related to the information for identifying the user and stored. Thus, the registration procedure necessary to make a key can be performed easily.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 16, 2003
    Date of Patent: October 5, 2004
    Assignee: Kawai Shokai Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventor: Masaji Kawai
  • Publication number: 20040143359
    Abstract: A system and process for creating custom fit artificial fingernails using a non-contact measuring device is disclosed. A fingernail is measured for its topographical configuration by an optical non-contact measuring device. The measured topography of the fingernail is then used to direct a machining device to create an artificial fingernail. Also disclosed is a method to digitally design an artificial fingernail, which has a portion of its under surface fitted to the natural fingernail by using a special computer program. The three-dimensional shape information of the digitally designed artificial fingernail is then converted into machine codes to drive a computer numerical controllable device, which will then cut the artificial fingernail from a piece of raw material. Finally, the user selected nail art can be printed onto the artificial fingernail by using a nail art printing device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 13, 2003
    Publication date: July 22, 2004
    Inventors: Teruaki Yogo, Yong Li, Kazuhiro Hoki
  • Publication number: 20040120781
    Abstract: A customized prosthesis, or instrument, for medical/dental applications is provided which replicates the desired bone-graft, tooth, or tool, being replaced. The dimensions of the prosthesis, or instrument, are determined by mathematically interpolating key-points that characterize a specific part. A computer controlled machine then cuts the desired part out of a pre-fabricated blank, directly at the site of operation. Methods of the invention relate to selecting the type of part being replaced, identifying and measuring the coordinates of key-points for that part, and initializing the automated machining process. Also, special supporting devices that include pre-fabricated features common between certain parts, are used in order to facilitate the machining process. The identification of key-points is done by comparing a schematic drawing of the type of part being replaced to the actual part. A grid is then used to measure the coordinates for those key-points.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 3, 2003
    Publication date: June 24, 2004
    Inventors: Silvio Castello Branco de Luca, Eduardo Cezar de Andrade de Mello e Souza, Alexandre de Lima Spinola, Eduardo da Rocha Albuquerque, Mauricio Ladeira Casado
  • Patent number: 6747750
    Abstract: In a method for engraving a printing cylinder using an engraving member in an electronic engraving machine, an engraving tool of an engraving member controlled by an engraving signal engraves a sequence of grooves arranged in a printing screen in a rotating printing cylinder. The engraving signal is formed by superimposing an image signal representing the shade values of light and dark of the grooves to be engraved and a periodic screen signal for generating the printing screen. In order to compensate for disruptive influences on the shade values of the engraved grooves resulting from operating temperatures in the engraving member, the operating temperature in the engraving member is measured at at least one measurement point. Depending on at least one measuring temperature, the electrical control of the engraving member is corrected and/or the temperature of at least one component of the engraving member and/or the air circulating around the engraving member is modified.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 7, 2000
    Date of Patent: June 8, 2004
    Assignee: Hell Gravure Systems GmbH
    Inventor: Dieter Fangmeyer
  • Publication number: 20040054433
    Abstract: A method and system for approximately reproducing the surface of a workpiece should enable the contour of the workpiece to be reconstructed in a particularly simple manner. To this end, the invention provides that a starting body, which represents, in whole or in part, the workpiece in a first approximation step, is subdivided into a number of partial volumes, whereby for a reproduction of the workpiece in a second approximation step, the partial volumes are selected for which a step involving an analytical reproduction of the milling volume, which stretches from the milling cutter along a covered milling path, is established.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 25, 2003
    Publication date: March 18, 2004
    Inventor: Leif Kobbelt
  • Patent number: 6687565
    Abstract: After making measurements of a key, the measurements are converted into a compact format which can be read back at a later date or at a different location by apparatus capable of accurately reproducing the original key. The data may be stored on, for example, a sticker, paper strip, or magnetic swipe card. When the duplicate key is required, the data are read from the storage medium and transmitted to a suitable key duplication device to produce a reproduction key.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 1, 2001
    Date of Patent: February 3, 2004
    Assignee: Machine Magic, LLC
    Inventors: Brad Wetterlin, John S. Titus
  • Patent number: 6633797
    Abstract: An apparatus for manipulating an object to a desired state. The object is received by a grid of retractable pins. A control component determines, through employment of a manipulation algorithm, one or more retractable pins to actuate to place the object in the desired state. The pins are then actuated by an actuation component that is coupled to both the grid of retractable pins and the control component.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 3, 2000
    Date of Patent: October 14, 2003
    Inventors: Srinivas Akella, Sebastien L. Blind, Christopher McCullough, Jean Ponce
  • Patent number: 6612044
    Abstract: An exemplary embodiment of the invention is a method of providing an executable program from an executable program provider to a customer for use in a controller of a three dimensional coordinate measurement system. The method includes receiving a request to create an executable program from a customer and obtaining information related to the executable program. The executable program is developed which guides an operator through a number of measurement steps to be performed with the three dimensional coordinate measuring system. The executable program is delivered to the customer over a network.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 1, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 2, 2003
    Assignee: Faro Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Simon Raab, Daniel Perreault, Shaun Mymudes, Scott Adams, Orlando Perez, Ken Steffey, Robert Pearce, Paul Atwell
  • Publication number: 20030123943
    Abstract: A dental measuring and machining system includes a measuring and machining unit for preparing measurement data by measuring a prosthesis model based on a predetermined algorithm and for producing a prosthesis by machining a prosthesis block based on the above measurement data, and an operating unit for operating the measuring and machining unit from the outside. A user is able to produce a dental prosthesis by operating the measuring and machining unit under the control of a computer. The measuring and machining unit is connected to the external operating unit by communication, and the measuring and machining unit can be operated from the outside.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 26, 2002
    Publication date: July 3, 2003
    Inventor: Hiroaki Hamada
  • Publication number: 20030099521
    Abstract: Apparatus for orienting a pair of framed eyeglasses relative to an electronic scanner whereby the scanner then generated digital data defining the geometry of the frame. This data is entered into a computer to cause it to control a milling machine which shapes a blank to form a filter lens for an accessory that clips onto the frame and has a matching geometry.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 26, 2001
    Publication date: May 29, 2003
    Applicant: OPTI-CLIP LTD.
    Inventor: Zvi Feldman
  • Patent number: 6571008
    Abstract: A reverse engineering technique allows the creation of 3-D CAD files from a solid model. A solid model of a part to be reverse engineered is created from polymers having an index of refraction matching that of an immersion liquid. Over the immersion liquid is a masking liquid that is substantially opaque. The generally clear polymeric model of the part is moved through the immersion/masking layer interface while images of the cross section of the model are acquired at the interface layer. The images are then used to create digital solid models from a physical model or to compare an existing physical model with its digital model.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 6, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 27, 2003
    Assignee: Washington State University Research Foundation
    Inventors: Amit Bandyopadhyay, Jonathan C. Christensen
  • Patent number: 6543972
    Abstract: The invention relates to a key decode apparatus for helping to automatically extracting and measurement depths and spacings of cuts an object key and decodes when duplicating an original key. A key holder is provided forming shadow image of a key side view by positioning the original key vertically along its longitudinal axis with the key's flat sides in vertical plane, position an object key between video camera and luminescent light strip. The video camera gets the shadow image of the key side view and sends it to a computer that stores the shadow image in memory that may measure depths and spacings of key cuts and compares with known original key manufacturers information in memory, decodes and sends it to be displayed and can be used in cutting machine for duplicating the key.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 27, 2000
    Date of Patent: April 8, 2003
    Inventor: William J Cimino
  • Patent number: 6424877
    Abstract: In order to produce a reproduction of an object such as a human face, a three-dimensional form of the object is measured with a three-dimensional measuring device, and the measured form is displayed. After a user approves the displayed form, a material is worked according to the measured form to work a reproduction of the object. If the user cancels the displayed form, the form is measured again and the measured form is displayed. Characteristics of the measured form are extracted, and an appropriate material is selected among a plurality of materials. On the other hand, the data of the measured form are converted to work data with reference to the size and the quality of a product to be worked which have been stored in a database. Preferably, the data are compressed in the depth direction in order to shorten the working time. Then, the material is worked in a series of processes from the form input to the working in a simple way, and the user can obtained a desired three-dimensional reproduction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 3, 1998
    Date of Patent: July 23, 2002
    Assignee: Minolta Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Takashi Kondo, Shingo Asai, Koji Sugie, Shinji Mishima, Koji Fujiwara
  • Patent number: 6406227
    Abstract: In a method and apparatus for measuring an original key, a line of the light is focused onto the key surface in a direction perpendicular to the key surface. A camera, or other type of detector is disposed to receive light deflected by the key at an oblique angle. The keyway and keycode of the key can be determined from the deflected pattern of light.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 1, 2000
    Date of Patent: June 18, 2002
    Assignee: Machine Magic LLC
    Inventors: John S. Titus, John E. Bolkcom
  • Patent number: 6363298
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for generating tool paths for cutting a physical part. The present invention includes storing geometric data indicative of the geometric configuration of the part. A plurality of planes are used to slice the geometric data. Micro features of the part are recognized based upon the sliced geometric data. Macro features of the part are determined based upon groupings of the recognized micro features. Tool path data is generated based upon the determined macro features of the part. Thereupon, the tool path data is used for cutting the physical part.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 23, 1998
    Date of Patent: March 26, 2002
    Assignee: Chrysler Corporation
    Inventors: Hayong Shin, Robert M. Trecapelli
  • Patent number: 6360143
    Abstract: A method of controlling a dispensing system, having a robot that moves along a motion segment and applies a material to a workpiece, automatically determines a backup distance for the robot after an error has occurred during the dispensing of a first portion of the material. The backup distance is based on an operational speed of the robot. The robot is relocated to a backup position based on this backup distance to ensure that the robot reaches the operational speed at least by a time that the robot reaches a re-application position. The re-application position is at or near where the application of the first portion of the material ended. Therefore, gaps, overlaps, and puddles in the material on the workpiece are prevented.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 27, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 19, 2002
    Assignee: Fanuc Robotics North America
    Inventor: Akihiro Yanagita
  • Patent number: 6286517
    Abstract: Inkjet printing technology is used to apply selected designs on fingernails or toenails. The nail-printing device applies highly detailed, customized, multicolored designs that are scaled to precisely fit within the boundary of each individual nail. The device comprises an ink jet print head, a holder for aligning the digits or nails, a camera to image the nails, a computer to acquire, store and analyze the image, and a control system that directs the ink jet print head to apply the scaled design to the nails.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 26, 2000
    Date of Patent: September 11, 2001
    Assignee: Pearl Technology Holdings, LLC
    Inventors: Paul J. Weber, Michael R. Weber, Luiz B. Da Silva
  • Patent number: 6212442
    Abstract: A device for compressing information sensed from a model of a product is provided. The compressed quantity of information is a subset of the control information that can be transferred, by way of a data link, to machining equipment used to make the product from a blank. The device senses the model in a first coordinate system and converts the sensed first coordinates into corresponding second coordinates, describing the shape in a second coordinate system. These second coordinates form the basis for the control information. Compressing the information substantially reduces the amount of data transmitted over a public telecommunication network of the data link.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 29, 1998
    Date of Patent: April 3, 2001
    Assignee: Nobel Biocare AB
    Inventors: Matts Andersson, Magnus Persson
  • Patent number: 6205370
    Abstract: For making a nest of cuts (N) for cutting blanks out of flat, irregular workpieces (W), the contour (U) and the flaws (F) of the spread workpieces (W) together with a workpiece characteristic are detected by means of a digitizing unit (3), and the corresponding data are read into a computer (5), which on the basis of these data and the data stored in the computer (5) concerning number, shape and quality requirements of the blanks calculates and stores a nest of cuts and utilizes the detected workpiece characteristics of the workpieces (W) as a workpiece code for allocating the nests of cuts (N) to the respective workpieces (W).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 19, 1998
    Date of Patent: March 20, 2001
    Assignee: GFM Beteiligungs-und Management GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventors: Gottfried Blaimschein, Harald Dietachmayr
  • Patent number: 6067996
    Abstract: Inkjet printing technology is used to apply a selected design on a fingernail or toenail. The nail printing device applies highly detailed, customized, multicolored designs that are scaled to the size and shape of the individual nail. The device comprises an ink jet print head; a holder for aligning the digit or nail, and a control system that contains the nail designs in an electronic digital form, scales and corrects the designs to the individual nail size and shape, and directs the ink jet print head to apply the scaled design to the nail.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 3, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 30, 2000
    Assignee: Pearl I. LLC
    Inventors: Paul J. Weber, Luiz B. Da Silva, Michael R. Weber
  • Patent number: 6065969
    Abstract: A computer game for designing and printing nail coverings includes a set of stored software instructions receivable within the processor unit of the computer to control operation of a color printer and a series of displayed images upon the monitor display screen. The user is able to call up an image of a hand which may be personalized to a skin tone matching the user's skin tone or may be colored dramatically different. The user is able to select from various icons displayed on the monitor display screen which may then be applied to each nail of the hand image. In addition, a series of photos provided by a digital camera input to the processor unit may be selected and sized to fit within a reference photo frame for use in printing the photo image upon selected nails. Once the color printer has processed the blank laminated sheet, a plurality of nail covers which are formed of the peel and stick self-adhesive structure of the blank sheet are printed upon each nail cover.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 10, 1998
    Date of Patent: May 23, 2000
    Assignee: Mattel, Inc.
    Inventors: Andrew Rifkin, Jesyca C. Durchan, Chaun Ralls