Abstract:
An apparatus for balancing a statically unbalanced system, particularly useful in balancing X-ray and mammography systems having an X-ray source and detector mounted to a rotational arm, includes a spring mechanism which synchronizes the activation of the spring mechanism with the rotation of the arm of the mammography system. The balancing system reduces the amount of torque necessary to rotate the arm and decreases the overall inertia of the system by eliminating the need for counterweights to maintain balance of the system.
Abstract:
The present approach relates to integrated planning of robot navigation and manipulator motion in performing tasks. In particular, as discussed herein sensor information, such as visual information, may be used for the robot to locate a target object when it arrives at a working location. Adjustments may be made based on this information that may include moving the robot and planning a manipulator arm motion.
Abstract:
The disclosed approach relates to manipulation of tools or instruments in the performance of a task by a robot. In accordance with this approach, sensor data is acquired and processed to identify a subset of instruments initially susceptible to manipulation. The instruments are then manipulated in the performance of the task based on the processed sensor data.
Abstract:
The present disclosure relates to the manufacture and use of a non-rigid breast compression paddle, such as a compression paddle having a mesh material forming the primary interface with patient tissue. In certain implementations, an automatic feedback driven approach may be used in conjunction with such a compression paddle for compressing breast tissue.
Abstract:
A pumping control unit is disclosed herein. The pumping control unit includes a processor coupled to a memory and a communication interface. The memory is configured to store an invariant matrix. The communication interface is configured to receive a plurality of measurements of a time-varying parameter for a rod pumping unit. The plurality of measurements is taken at a surface of a pumping site over a pump cycle for a sucker rod string. The processor is configured to gain access to the invariant matrix in the memory and the plurality of measurements from the communication interface. The processor is further configured to compute a Fourier coefficient array based on the invariant matrix and the plurality of measurements. The processor is further configured to compute a time-varying downhole parameter based on the Fourier coefficient array and a sucker rod string model.
Abstract:
A substrate for positioning a separation membrane and a collection membrane for separating and collecting plasma is disclosed. The substrate includes an inner flexure disposed proximate to a first peripheral portion of the substrate and an outer flexure disposed surrounding at least a portion of the inner flexure. The inner flexure is formed from a plurality of first slots in the substrate and the outer flexure is formed from a plurality of second slots in the substrate.
Abstract:
A method for separating and collecting cell-free plasma by finger stick that minimizes contamination with genomic DNA from a donor. The method comprising placing a tourniquet on one of the digits of the donor's finger to apply pressure, lancing the digit to create an incision in the digit, and collecting blood from the incision from the incision site. The collected blood is placed on a separation membrane wherein the separation membrane is in contact with a collection membrane and both the separation and collection membrane are inserted into a substrate configured to provide overlap between the membranes. A kit and instructions for carrying out the method is also provided.
Abstract:
A sample storage and extraction device is provided. The sample storage and extraction device includes a substrate frame and a substrate cover. The substrate frame includes a substrate region configured to receive a sample substrate. The sample storage and extraction device further includes a compression assembly configured to provide an isolation zone in a portion of the sample substrate. Moreover, the sample storage and extraction device includes a fluidic channel configured to flow elution fluid to the isolation zone.