Abstract:
A real-time speech recognition system includes distributed processing across a client and server for recognizing a spoken query by a user. Both the client and server can dedicate a variable number of processing resources for performing speech recognition functions. In some implementations the partitioning of responsibility for speech recognition operations can be done on a client by client or query by query basis.
Abstract:
An isolator circuit (25) for a unit of a safety system (10) includes a power control line (14) connectable to a first loop of a safety system and a power connection (16) connectable to a second loop of the safety system. A switch (26) is connected to the power control line (14), and the switch has a closed configuration and an open configuration. A controller (28) controls the configuration of the switch (26). If a voltage across the circuit (10) from the power connection (16) to the power control line (14) falls below a predetermined level, the controller (28) opens the switch (26), thereby causing a disconnection to occur in the first loop.
Abstract:
Methods and systems for performing speech recognition using an electronic interactive agent are disclosed. In embodiments of the invention, an electronic agent is presented in a form perceptible to a user. The electronic agent is used to solicit speech input from a user and to respond to the user's recognized speech, and mimics the behavior of a human agent in a natural language query session with the user. The electronic agent may be implemented in a distributed speech recognition system in which speech recognition tasks are divided between client and server.
Abstract:
A spinal implant system for restricting flexion of a spine includes an elongate band proportioned to engage at least two spinous processes. During use, the band is positioned engaging the spinous processes at a spinal segment of interest, where it restricts flexion at the segment. The length and tension of the band may be adjustable following to implantation using percutaneous or transcutaneous means.
Abstract:
A spinal implant for limiting flexion of the spine includes a tether structure for encircling adjacent spinal processes. Usually, a pair of compliance members will be provided as part of the tether structure for elastically limiting flexion while permitting an extension. A cross-member is provided between the compliance member or other portions of the tether structure to stabilize the tether structure and prevent misalignment after implantation.
Abstract:
A method and apparatus of identifying a plurality of devices connected along a common communications link is disclosed. A control station scans the devices by sending a succession of interrogation signals along the communication link, the interrogation signals including representation of the identification numbers of the devices. A first scan is carried out with interrogation signals identifying a first level of the range of identification numbers, and each device is programmed to generate, and to send to the control station, a response signal that includes its complete identification number and a checksum, upon receipt of a scan signal applicable thereto. Successive scans are carried out by the control station, adding the next higher level or the range of identification numbers, wherein upon completion of the scan that does not give rise to valid responses, the previously-paused scan is resumed.
Abstract:
Methods, apparatus and systems for constraining spinous processes to elastically limit flexion of two or more adjacent spinal segments rely on placing a tether structure over at least three adjacent vertebral bodies or two adjacent vertebral bodies and the sacrum. The tether structures may be continuous, for example in the form of a continuous loop, or may be discontinuous, for example in the form of a loop or elongate element having at least two anchor structures for securing in bone.
Abstract:
A detector comprises a detector base and a sensor, first and second resistors connected in series, a DC voltage source (Vref) connected to the resistors, and means for monitoring the voltage at the midpoint of a potential divider constituted by the series-connected resistors. The first and second resistors are rated so that the midpoint voltage is indicative of the date of manufacture of the sensor.
Abstract:
An auxiliary actuator mechanism includes a lever, a spring unit and a control linkage. The lever is pivotally connected to the upper portion of a main shock absorber strut, and pivotable between an upper position for take-off, and a lower position. The spring unit is pivotally connected at an upper end to the lever and at a lower end to the bogie at an auxiliary pivot forward of the main pivot. The control linkage is connected between the lever and the upper portion of the main shock absorber strut to define the upper predetermined position of the lever. The control linkage is connectable to an anchor point that moves relative to the upper portion of the main shock absorber strut during stowing, and is operated by initial stowing movement of the stowing mechanism to lower the lever from the upper position to a stowing position.
Abstract:
An electrically conductive substrate is provided with a predetermined electrical pattern. A solder paste is deposited onto the electrically conductive substrate at pre-defined interconnection locations. A first encapsulant layer provided with a pattern of openings is placed onto the electrically conductive substrate. Back-contact solar cells are placed on the first encapsulant layer so as to have a match of the electrical pattern of the back-contact solar cells with the electrical pattern of the electrically conductive substrate. A second encapsulant layer is placed on the back-contact solar cells with a glass layer placed on the second encapsulant layer. Heat and pressure are applied to the components to cause the encapsulant materials to flow and form a monolithic photovoltaic module. A laser is applied to the solar cell from the side of the glass layer to cause the solder paste to reflow between each interconnection location and its matching connection location on the back-contact solar cell.