Abstract:
The invention includes methods and apparatus for correcting shading non-uniformity in camera systems. A method includes capturing at least two sets of flatfield images from at least two sets of camera modules under first and second illuminant, respectively. Pixels for each image in the sets of flatfield images are then averaged to form first and second averaged flatfield images, respectively. The first averaged flatfield image is transformed using the second averaged flatfield image to create a transform image. The transform image is then saved in memory for calibrating the shading non-uniformity of the camera module.
Abstract:
A method and apparatus for correcting linear shift parallax error in multi-array image systems. Average pixel cell signal values for pixel cells within a summing window of each column or row of at least two sub-arrays are computed during read-out. The images of the sub-arrays are correlated based on the averages, then shifted based on a result of the correlation function to correct the exhibited parallax error. The summation, correlation, and shifting can be performed by a pixel pipeline processing circuit.
Abstract:
A fuse state detection circuit is comprised of a first fuse element, a second fuse element, and an output for carrying an output signal, the output signal represents a first logic state when the first fuse element is blown and the second fuse element is unblown and the output signal represents a second logic state when the first element is unblown and the second element is blown. The fuse state detection circuit produces an output signal whose state is recoverable from a negative triggering event and is capable of resolving itself to the correct state without the need for a reset pulse. Methods of using the fuse state detection circuit, such as a method of using fuse elements to control a setting within an electronic circuit, the improvement comprising using a pair of fuse elements to control a single setting, are also given.
Abstract:
A portable ultrasound unit and docking cart for the unit are provided. When the portable unit is mounted to the docking cart, the docking cart transforms the portable unit into a cart-based system with enhanced features and functionality such as improved ergonomics, ease of use, a larger display format, external communications connectivity, multiple transducer connections, and increased data processing capabilities. A clinician display and patient display may be provided on the cart. Communications circuitry in the docking cart may be used to support communications between the docking cart's processor and external networks and devices. The docking cart may receive physiological signals such as cardiac signals and may use this information to synchronize ultrasound imaging operations with a patient's physiological condition. Adjustable user interface controls, data handling features, security features, power control functions, and thermal management capabilities may be provided in the docking cart.
Abstract:
Systems and methods for processing sheets, statements, and/or inserts prior to mailing are provided. One sheet processing system includes a receiver adapted to receive first and second single page sheets to be processed. The first sheet originates from a stack of first sheets, and the second sheet originates from a stack of second sheets. In some systems, the first and second sheets are of different sizes. The system includes a first read head adapted to read a first identifier from the first sheet, and a second read head adapted to read a second identifier from the second sheet. A circuit coupled to the first and second read heads is adapted to compare the first and second identifiers to determine whether a match exists. At least one identifier may include a magnetic stripe.
Abstract:
The invention relates to absorptive, crosslinked polymers which are based on partly neutralized, monoethylenically unsaturated monomer carrying acid groups wherein the absorptive crosslinked polymer may be coated with a thermoplastic polymer, and have improved properties, in particular in respect of their capacity for transportation of liquids in the swollen state, and which has a high gel bed permeability and compatibility to affix to a thermoplastic material.
Abstract:
A process for producing an absorbing polymer structure (Pa) including the steps of obtaining a treated absorbing polymer structure (Pb) by increasing the absorption under load at a load of 0.3 or 0.9 psi (AUL) compared to an untreated absorbing polymer structure (Pu) by a first treatment of an outer region of the untreated absorbing polymer structure (Pu) and reducing the AUL compared to the treated polymer structure (Pb) by a second treatment of an outer region of the treated absorbing polymer structure (Pb). Such absorbing polymer structure (Pa) may be used in a composite and may be used in foams, moulded articles, fibers, sheets, films, cables, sealing materials, liquid-absorbing hygiene articles, carriers for plant growth-regulating and fungal growth-regulating agents, packaging materials and soil additives or building materials.
Abstract:
A system for outpatient treatment of patients diagnosed with a chronic health related condition includes a virtual office site operated with a server. The virtual office site is accessible over a network by a patient using a first browser, a physician using a second browser and a nurse case manager using a third browser. The patient and the patient's physician are provided secure communications to participate in a virtual office visit using the virtual office site. In addition, the physician may submit an electronic payment request with the virtual office site for reimbursement of services rendered. The nurse case manager is provided selective access to the communications to assist the patient in management of the patient's chronic health related condition.
Abstract:
Personalized voice survey delivery systems and methods in which a computer identifies a person to be surveyed, including his or her phone number or Internet login to a specific website, or email address, together with specific identifiers for the person, such as the person's name. The person's phone number is dialed and when the call is answered, the computer concatenates the files having the digitized identifiers such as the person's name, with the file that is the standard message to be delivered as the initial survey content. Computer-generated personalized voice messages are created by concatenating data files of audio that were pre-recorded in the voice of an individual whose live voice is to be simulated during the delivery of the voice survey. The audio signal that is produced from the concatenated data files, one of which is a pre-recorded voice phrase corresponding to the identifier, another of which is a standard message, the resultant audio message sent to the called number sounds as if the calling party is the political office holder, celebrity, or candidate, addressing the called party directly, as if during a live telephone survey by the political office holder, celebrity, or candidate. The event of the person logging into a specific website or clicking a link in an email can be substituted for dialing the person's phone number.
Abstract:
The present invention is directed to an aqueous superabsorbent polymer paste comprising from about 1 to about 5 wt % of superabsorbent particles and from about 95 to about 99 wt % of an aqueous water-soluble solution having from about 0.5 to about 5%, preferably from about 1 to about 3% solid level. The present invention is also directed to a coated substrate comprising a substrate material and an aqueous superabsorbent polymer paste comprising a blend of i) from about 1 to about 5 wt % of superabsorbent particles and ii) from about 95 to about 99 wt % of an aqueous water-soluble solution. The present invention is also directed to a method for reducing the loss of circulation fluids into flow passages of a subterranean formation during well drilling, completion or work over operations, by using the aqueous superabsorbent polymer paste of the present invention.