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US-31487819-A_1
|
USPTO
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Open Government
|
Public Domain
| 1,919
|
None
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None
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English
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Spoken
| 3,896
| 5,393
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Safety stopping device for circular-knitting machines
- H. E. HOUSENIAN.
Y SAFETY SIOPIING DEVICE FOR CIRCULAR KNITTING MACHINES- APPLICATION FILED AUG.2. I9I9.
1,364,112.. Patenmd Jan. 4, 1.921.;
' 4 SHEETS--SHEET 2.
Fmi
f5 2919 hm-12s f 21min/EK H. E. HOUSE-MAN.'
' SAFETY sToPPlNG DEVICE FOR cmCuLAR KNITTIKNG MACHINES.
APPLICATIUIN FILED AUGNZ, IBIS.
Patented Jan. 4, 1921.
iwf-A1555.-
W P m Ma@ H www m w 4/ w w 0 TS,
V H. E. HGUSEMAN. SAFETY STOPFING DEViCE FOR CRCULAR KNITTING MACHINES APPLICATN FILE() AUC-1.2, 1919.
1,364,112. v Ptnted Jan. 4, 1921. n
4 SHEETS-SHEET 4.
Mmm/5K UNITEDSTATES PATENT OFFICE.
Ennemi E. HousnivrAN, or rH11.f innnrzsiay` PENNSYLVANIA, AssiieNoR To' STANDARD MACHINE COMPANY, or PHILADELPHIA, PENNSYLVANIA, A
CORPORATION F PENNSYLVANIA.
LSSdJlZ,
Specification of Letterslatent.
SAFETY srorPiNe DEVICE son oineuLAR-KNITTING MACHINES- Patented J an,` 4, 192.1;
sppiieauon snai August 2, 191e. serial no. 314,873.
To all whom fit/flirty concer/n Be it known that L HAROLD E. HOUSE- iuaN, a citizen of the United States, residing athiladelpha, county of Philadelphia,
and State oi' Pennsylvania, have invented a new and useiul 1in irovemeiit in Safety Stopping Devices for ircular-Knitting Machines, of which the following is a full, clear, und exact description, reference being had to JtheI acconipanyin drawings, which forni a part of this specification.
In the modern automatic circular hosiery knitting machine, it is customary to provide a .pattern chain which controls the operation l5 of a pattern disk orcylinder,the lattercarry.-v ing parts which control the operation of various elements of themachine,'such as the clutch for shifting from rotation to oscil- `lation and vice versa, the cams for raising half 2o the needles out of action and restoring them to action, the cams for rendering active the lifting pickers and lowering pickers, the means for shifting yarn changing ingers into and-out of action, etc. To' enable the pattern chain. toI controlthe pattern disk or cylinder, the chain is provided at suitable intervals with lugs or high links, which control v the operation ot mechanism for turning the pattern disk or cylinder. The pattern disk or cylinder dictates certain f l u operations oi the machine in a certain se quence, but the time elapsing between certain otthese various operations of the machine may be varied by using, chains ot different 36 length and regulatingthe distance, measured in links, between the lugs. lin any pattern chain, however, the distances between lugs are necessarily lquite variable, vland therefore i the pattern disk or cylinder shall be brought toa v certain position, the pattern chainimust be brought to a synchronous position. 'if proper care belexercised'by a properlyinstructed operative, no troublecan arise; v.but
5l) unfortunately, due to ignorance or careless nessl on the part of an operative, the chain is not always positioned to synchronize with the pattern disk. This condition-may arise, for example, ii", forany reason, the machine tioned.
has been stopped and the chain shifted and then has not been restored' to` proper position; the consequences then, after the ina-3 chine is re-started, yoften being quiteserious, in that needles are broken and parts of the machine are damagedor ruined. The'niost 60 vital damage is apt to occur as the machine goes olf the heel or toe l i or example, .in atypical knitting machine, at the beginning of the heel or toe,l the' clutch is shifted to cause the machine 65 t@ change from rotation to oscillation, half 'the needles are moved out of action, the yarn `changing ,fingers are opei'ated,'and the "pick yers start 'to lift the remaining needles'outof action one by one. After the heel or toeI is half knit the lowering pickers are rendered active. t' the conclusion of the heel or toe knitting, the clutch is again shifted-"all the pickers are lrendered inactive, Vthe bank of needles that'was moved out of action'at the 75 beginning of the yheel or toe isfinoved into action and the yarn changing fingers are k operated. rfhese described operations re- 'quiie three shifts of vthe pattern disk or cylinder, which are caused to be elected by 8o three lugs on the pattern chain. Itis obvious thatthese three lugs must be spaced 'a given vdistance apart, because the chain moves synchronously with the needle eylinder, and just as the needle cylinder Vmust` oscillate' a given number lof times to l' coI'nplete the heel and toe, so must the chain `more a given number of links during the same period. .if thelugs are' not properly spaced, then the last two of said three shifts of the pattern disk or cylinder will be made when the `needles and other elements are not p in .proper vposition for, the operations nienl Assuming an. improper spacing of the lugs on the patternl chain, it is impracticable to specify exactly just what the abnormal condition's would be when the moment arrives tor going `ofi' `the heel or toe, as these. conditions will be diferent ,on machines of differentmake,` and will, indeed, Vary on the saine machine. 0n Standard or Houseman machines '(see, for example, Houseman Patent No. It will be understood that I have simply pattern chain is not properly adjusted to correspond with the position of the pattern disk orcylinder. I have illustrated one em-v bodiment of my invention which has been carefully worked out mechanically andthe operativeness of which has been demonstrated by prolonged experimental and practical use. I have also illustrated other embodiments of the invention, which illustrate rational embodiments ofthe same inventive conception. Other embodiments, with the suggestions afforded by the structures shown and described, could readily be amsm workedout by the skilled mechanic.
Figure 1 is a plan view of the machine, with lthe top of the machine table broken away.
Fig. 2 is a partial front View of the mechshown in Fig. l.
Fig. 3 is a rear view of the same.
Fig. 4 is a horizontal section on line 4 4 of Fig. 3.
Fig. 5 lis an elevation of the machine, looking at the right hand side of Fig. 1.
Figs. 6 and 7 are side views of parts of the machine in ('li'lercnt pofitions.
. Figs..8,' 9 and l() are views,similar to Figs. 6 and 7, of modifications.
Fig. 11 is aperspective view of a part of the pattern chain.
The" driving shaft a, through bevel gears b, b', and spur gear c. drives a rotaryfpi`nion c loose on the shaft (l, from which the needle cylinder is operated by the usual.
` means (not shown). An oscillatory pinion f, loose von the shaft d, is actuated by an oscillating quadrant f. The quadrant is 1,288,594. A clutch g,feathered on the shaft ci, isl shifted by mechanism herein-v after described, into engagement with the two pinions c and f alternately, thereby imparting to the needle cylinder alternate movements of rotation and oscillation. The clutch g is carried by an arm on a frame i slidable vertically on a post j.
The pattern disk z' is provided with peripheral ratchet teeth engaged by a pawl m. The pawl m is operated at suitable intervals bymechanism controlled by the pattern chain, thereby turning the pattern disk step by step. In some machines a pattern cylinder is used in place of a disk, and
it'will be understoodl that the term patp tern disk, as used in this description and in the claims, is intended to include any device or apparatus that controls or effectsl the operation of the machine elements, such as, for example, a pattern cylinder, a pattern drum, a pattern shaft, or a supplementary pattern chain. In the present machine., the pattern disk carries various devices which, as the disk is turned at irregular but fixed intervals, are moved successively intoI operation, these devices in turn actuating, or controlling the actuation of the various machine elements that control the knitting operation.
For example, a cam-way lc on the periphery of the pattern disk operates, at a predetermined time, a pin Z carried .by the frame i, thereby shifting the clutch g as hereinbefore described.
The pawl m is carried on a lever u ex tending from a hub o turnable on a post. The hub o has also arms p and g. The arm f/ carries a roller 7" engaging a cam s on the shaft f5, which, as before described, is constantly rotated. The cam s moves the arm g outwardly from the axis of the shaft f5, while a spring s (when free to act) moves t'he arm g inwardly toward the axis of the cam. In the absence of other` mechanism, therefore, the pawl m would be reciprocated at each rotation of the cam s and the pattern disk would be actuated at frequent and regular intervals. However, whenever the arm y is moved outward by the cam s (thus advancing the pawl m to advance the pattern disk li), the lever y) engages and displaces the hookedeml of one arm of a'bell crank lever t (see Fig. 5), the latter being fore is not retracted toengage the next tooth of the pattern disk ratchet until the lever t 1s moved to Withdrawn its hooked end from back of the lever [2. This actuation ot lever t is eli'ected by the pattern chain, as here inafter described.
The pattern chain lQ'is actuated by the following mechanism: On the rotating vshaftf is a cam iv embraced by thel bifurcated end of an arm w on a huh a', pivotedV on the same post onwhich hub o is vkpivoted. The hub an has an arm y that carries a paw] e engaging a ratchet'lO. The ratchet 1U 41s sleeved on the outside of the bearing for shaft a and carries a sprocket wheel l1.
lever so as to disengage its hooked ,end fromk the lever p, allowing thespring 8' to draw the arm q against the low face of the s,
A which then swings the lever g so as to ad.-
Vance the pawl m and ratchet the pattern disk z' forward a .distance ot' one tooth.
To the mechanism above described, I have applied my safety contriva'nce. lVhile the safety contrivance may be embodied, asbefore. stated, in dierent forms, I prefer to yso design and apply it that it will operate if one ofthegregular lugs 14 (in the specific'A embodiments shown herein any of the narrow lugs) underrides the lever t at one or more stages'of the knitting operation, but so that it will be withheld from operation if a special lug (in the ypresent case a lug 13) underrides the lever t. 1t is obviousy that if this special lug is the onerwhich,when
the chain is properly positioned', is intended to effect theoperation of the pattern disk so as to dictate thel operation of elements which are designed to operate at such stage of the knitting operation, the safety `contrivance will not operate and hence the machine will oipera'te just as if it were equipped with .no sa'jetydeviice whatever.
' Bearingv in mind that disastrous results are to be apprehended only after the machine passes'onto the heel or toe, have, in myy preferred embodiment, so arranged the safety contrivance that it will be adapted.
to operate only as. the machine passes onto the heel or toe. The chain is provided with two of the special lugs 13, each of which (when the pattern chain and pattern disk arey properly synchronized) effects that actuation of the elements designed to be operated at these two stages of the .knitting operation. 1t is therefore clear that if the pattern chain and pattern dish be properly v down pn synchronized, the safcty contrivance Willf" intended inode of operation ,of the preferred l embodiment .of my invention, I shall explain the construction ,and operation of the specific safety device which l hat-e actually usedand which is illustrated in Figs. 1 to 7 inclusive'.
0n the driving shaft' L is the fixed' pulley 15 and the loose pulley 1li. v larly AFigs. 1 and 17 vis a belt shifter slidable on a guide rod 18. A spring 1.9 (Figs. 1 and 2l)- tends to actuate the belt shifter to shift the belt from the fixed pulley 15 to the loose pulley 1G. i A stop 20 normally prevents the belt shifter from so mov ing. A springpressed rock-arm 21,to which the stop 20 is secured, normally holds the stop in operative position. i' i' The QlutCh-Carrying frame 7L has bearings in which is swiveled a rod 23, to which is secured an arm 22, which loosely/'embraces la pin Q00, secured to the lever 21. In the normal operation of the machine, the rod 23 does not turn, its only movement being an up and down movement, with the clutch frame, when the .clutch f] is shifted. This up and down movement does not actuate the stop 20, the arm 22 merely sliding up and the pin 200.
The rod 23 has at 1 (See pa rticu,` ,8
ts upper end a head to`i` which a pin 24 issecured 25 is a lever pivoted' between its ends. One end of ,this ,lever extends alongside of the chain-oper,-
atcd end of lever t in position. to beengaged by one of the special lugs ,13 but not 'in position to be engaged by one ot' the regular lugs 14e. A spring 27 holds the lever Q5 in the path ot' travel of the lugs 13. The other end of lever 25 is shaped to pro'- vide a recess E2G normally inline of the down 'ard movement of the pin Q4, as shown yin F ig.
It will bc clear that if a wrong lug let actuates the lever when the pattern disk e' is in position to shift to dictate the begin ning oit' heel or toe knitting, the lever 25 will not be actuated. Consequently, in the lowering of the clutch g (which is one of thev operations at this stage ot the knitting), 'the pin 24 moves into the recess 26 and pushes down the corresponding end of lthe lever The lever is so pivoted that, as its recessed end moves down with the clutch frame h, itnecessarily has also a .las
lateral movement relatively thereto, causing it, by reason of its engagement 4With the pin 24, to more the pin 'laterally and thereby turn the rod 23 on its axis, as shown in Fig. `6. The turning of rod 23 swings the arm 22, which/witl draws the stop 2O out of 'operative position, andthe belt shifterpl? ,is immediately' actuated by the spring 19 to shift the belt from the tight pulley 15 to the loosevv pulley 16, thereby stopping the machine;
Suppose, however, that a correct lug 13 actuates the lever t when the pattern disk is in position to shift to dictate the beginning of the heel or toe knitting. Then the lever -wi'll be operated by the lug slightly before the lug operates the lever t, although (in the specific embodiment shown) in the same turn of the sprocket Wheel 11', and the recessed end of the lever will swing into the position shown in Fig. 7, moving this end of the lever below, or out of the path of travel of, the pin 24. Hence` when the pattern disk z' is turned and the clutch frame h moves down, the pin 24 will not coact with the recess 26 and the belt shiftingA mechanism will not operate.
The coaction betweenl lever 25 and pin 24 in lthe specific construction described involves an operation of each by the other. In Fig. 8 is shown a slight modification.
:Here the` lever 30 (corresponding to lever 25) is held in position to be operated by a lug 13 by means of a spring 31. Spring 31. corresponds to spring 27 but should be of greater strength. The actuating end of -lever 30 is provided with an upturned edge the inner wall of which forms a cam 32 in line of movement ofthe pin 24. If, preparatory to' that shift of the pattern disk i which ldictates the beginning of heel or 'toe knitting, the properlug operates the lever t, the lever 3() is swung out of the path of movement of the pin 24, but if a wrong lug operates the lever t, thereby leaving the lever 30 in its normal position, the pin 24, in the lowering movement of the clutch frame, rides upon the cam 32 and is turned on its axis, thereby causing the belt-shifting mechanism to operate.
In the foregoing construction the pattern chain controls the position of the lever 25 or 30 and the stop mechanism is operated by the movement of the clutch shifter. In the construction shown in Fig. 9, the pattern chain, as before, controls the position of the lever, but the' stop mechanism is'actuated by the pattern disk The lever 40 (corresponding to lever 25 or 30) has a slot 41 engaging a pin 42. The lever 40 is therefore both turnable and slidable on the pin 42. A spring 43 holds the lever in its left-hand position, in which position it is in operative relation with the pattern chain. A stop 44 prevents the lever 40 turning on its axis except in opposition to the spring 43; The
actuating end of lever 40 has a cam-actuated head 45 provided with an actuating cam 46.
The head 45 is normally in line of travel of a cam 47 on the patternv disk Vhen the the machine frame.
vcam 47; engages the head 45 it tilts the corresponding end of the lever 4() down, thus causing the cam 46 to engage the pin 24 and thereby swing the rod 23 to actuate the beltshifting mechanism. This operation will occur only if the wrong pattern chain lug operates the lever t, thereby leaving lever 40' in position to be operated, as described, by the cam 47. But if the correct lug operates I knitting operation. It should be mentioned that, in this modification, the tnrnable rod 23 is not carried .on the clutch-shifting frame, but is journaled on a fixed part lof In the drawings, the rod is shown as turnable in two fixed suppoits 48.
In the construction shown in Fig. 10, the lever 50 (corresponding to lever 25, 30 ,or 40) is operated to actuate' the stop mechanism by the pattern chain: itself. One end of the lever 50 is held into operative relation with the chain by a spring 51 andv is pivoted at 52. The other end ot the leverO has a cam 53 adapted, when depressed, to engage the pin 24 and turn the rod 23 to stop the machine, as before described. This operation willloccur as soon as a special lug 13 engages the lever 50, unless the pattern disk is properly positioned relatively to the pattern chain; but if the disk is in its proper position relative to the chain a stop 54 carried by the disk underrides a projection 55 -on the ,lever 50 and prevents' the lever 5() withheld from moving down by the posi-Y tive stop 54.
I-laving now fully described ymy invention, what I claim and desire to protect by Letters Patent is: I
l. In a circular knitting machine, the combination with driving means, of a clutch, a pattern 'disk and actuating means therefor, a
cam on the 'pattern disk for controlling the action Aof the clutch, a pattern chain,
lugs irregularly spaced on the pattern chain and'adaptedlto render said actuating means operative and thereby impart intermittent movements to thepattern disk at'irregular intervals; of mechanism to stop the ma chine, and contrivance'sadapted to efe'ct i the operation of thestop mechanismand in operative relation With both the pattern disk and one of said lugs on the pattern v chain and adapted to be renderedA operative or inoperative to stop the machine dependent upon the position. of the clutch cam 'on the pattern disk When said last'mentioned combination with driving means, ot a pattern disk, and actuating means therefor, mechanism to stop the machine, acontriv- V ance controlling the operation of the stop mechanism, and a pattern chain comprising lugs of diii'erential characterlstics all ot' which are adapted to render said pattern disk actuating means intermittently operav tive, While one of said lugs is also adapted to operate said contrivance and thereby cause the stop mechanism to be operated or not dependent upon Whether the pattern chain is or is not out of synchronous relation With the pattern-disk- 3. In a circular knittingmachine, the combination with driving means including a reciprocable clutch adapted to vcause a part of said driving means to eitherrotate or oscillate, apattern disk adapted, at predetermined but irregular intervals, to control the proper operation of the knitting mechanism and said clutch, through the medium of the clutch pattern disk actuating means, and a pattern chain adapted, when properly synchronized with the pattern disk, to so control the operation of saidl actuating means as to effect the specified operation of the pattern disk; of mechanism to stop the machine, a clutch frame carrying said clutch, contrivances adapted to cOp-' crate with the clutch frame to effect the operation of the stop mechanism, and means adapted, when the chain is properly' synchronized with the pattern disk, to prevent said'coperation of said clutch frame and contrivances.
a. In a circular knitting machine, the combination with driving means inclruling a 'reoipvrocable clutch adapted to canse a part of the driving means to either rotate or oscillate, a pattern disk adapted to control the operation of the knitting mechanism,
actuating means for the pattern disk, a pattern cham adapted to control the operation of said pattern disk, mechanism to stop the machine, and a clutch frame carrying said clutch, of means controlled by the pattern chain and adapted to render the clutch frame in its movement operative or inoperative to operate the stop mechanism dependent upon Whether the pattern disk is or is not out of synchronous relation with the pattern chain. l,
5. Ina circular knitting machine, the combination of driving means including a reciprocableclutch adapted to cause a part yof the driving means to either rotate or oscillate, a pattern disk adapted to control the operation of the knitting mechanism', actuating means for the pattern disk, a pattern chain comprising lugs all of which are adapted to render said pattern disk actuating means intermittently operative, mechanism to stop the machine, a clutch' frame carrying said clutch, means carried therebyadapted when the clutch is shifted to be turned into position to operate said stop mechanism, and a contrivance adapted to cause such turning movement of such clutch frame, one -of said lugs also being adaptedv to shift said contrivance and thereby prevent such turningV movement, whereby, if the clutch frame is shifted contemporaneously `with the operation of said contrivance, the machine will not be stopped.
6. A circular knitting machine having oscillatory and rotary driving mechanism, clutch mechanism for connecting either of said mechanisms, clutch shifting mechanism including a pattern disk, means for intermittently actuating the pattern disk, a pattern chain for controlling the action of the pattern disk, and means t9 stop the machine operable if the clutch shifting mechanism and the pattern chain are out of timed i Jrelation.
In testimony of which invention, I have hereunto set my hand, at Philadelphia, Pa., on this 30th day of July, 1919.
, HAROLDv E. HOUSEMAN.
| 42,946
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199000420545
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French Open Data
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Open Government
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Licence ouverte
| 1,990
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GROUPEMENT D'ACHAT DE PRODUITS ISSUS DE L'AGRICULTURE BIOLOGIQUE
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ASSOCIATIONS
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French
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Spoken
| 23
| 31
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permettre à ses adhérents de se réunir et de se grouper pour acheter dans de bonnes conditions les produits issus de l'agriculture biologique
| 30,791
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US-23377805-A_1
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USPTO
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Open Government
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Public Domain
| 2,005
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None
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None
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English
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Spoken
| 5,100
| 6,717
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Method and apparatus for adjustable image compression
ABSTRACT
A compression rate is selected for a data file representing an image wherein an image source and an image characterization is identified. Selection of a compression rate can be based upon the image source and the image characterization. The image source can be medical imaging device such as x-ray, CT scan, MRI, mammogram, sonogram, or other types of images. The image characterization can be an anatomical content of the image, a purpose of study of the image, or a diagnostic value of the source of the image.
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
This application is related to co-pending U.S. patent applicationentitled “Method and Apparatus for Boundary-Based Image Compression”,U.S. patent application entitled “Event Notification Verification andEscalation”, and U.S. patent application entitled “Autonomous Routing ofNetwork Messages”, all of which are being filed concurrently with thepresent application. The disclosures of all of these applications areincorporated by reference.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
1. Field of the Invention
The present invention relates generally to compression of image dataand, more particularly, to adjusting the rate of compression.
2. Description of the Related Art
Transmission and handling of message data is an important function thatmust be carefully and efficiently performed. For example, a health caredelivery system such as a hospital or medical center will receivemessage data of many different types. It is critical for the health ofpatients that message data are delivered to appropriate medical staff,with sufficient data integrity to be useful to the staff member. Messagedata may include image information, for example, image information froma laboratory examination such as an X-ray, computer tomography (CTScan), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), or other laboratoryexamination. The image information can be in a variety of data formats,such as JPEG data, bitmap data, TIFF images, and the like.
Digital representation of image information often requires large amountsof data, making transmission and storage of image data challenging andexpensive. Data compression techniques have been developed to reduce theamount of data that must be transmitted and stored. In brief, datacompression refers to techniques that represent data files in a formatthat requires less “bits” than the original data file. The “compressionrate” refers to the number of bits in the compressed data file ascompared to the number of bits in the uncompressed data file.
Known data compression techniques may be divided into two broadcategories, lossy compression and lossless compression. Lossycompression involves compression of a data file that results in the lossof some of the original information when the original data file isreconstructed from the compressed file. In other words, when theoriginal data file is reconstructed from the lossy compressed file,there are differences, or errors, between the reconstructed file and theoriginal file. A typical goal of lossy compression techniques is thatthe differences, or errors, in the reconstructed data file are tolerablewith varying amounts.
Lossless compression involves compression of a data file that results inno loss of original information when the original data file isreconstructed. In other words, lossless compression techniques compressthe original data file in such a way that when the original data file isreconstructed from the compressed file there are no differences, orerrors, between the reconstructed file and the original file.
Generally, lossy compression techniques can achieve a higher compressionratio, resulting in smaller compressed file sizes, as compared withlossless compression. However, there is usually degradation in thereconstructed data file using lossy compression, while there is nosignificant degradation in the reconstructed data file using losslesscompression.
Use of data compression techniques on medical image files can bebeneficial in reducing both the storage capacity and transmissionbandwidth required for large image files. For example, digital radiologybenefits from compression algorithms by reducing both image storage andtransmission costs. However, the amount of compression that can beachieved with medical image files is limited by the amount of “loss” orerrors, if any, that are acceptable in the reconstructed image, i.e.,there may be resolution or loss specifications set by the medicalapplication for the data. To illustrate, because radiology imagery maybe critical for the health of patients, it is important to maintain theimage “quality” which means that generally less error and therefore lesscompression can be tolerated. This limits the storage and transmissionbenefits achievable with higher amounts of compression.
From the discussion above, it should be apparent that there is a needfor a system and techniques that can improve data compression of imagedata files for reduced consumption of system resources while maintainingsufficient data fidelity. Other problems with the prior art notdescribed above can also be overcome using the teachings of the presentinvention, as would be readily apparent to one of ordinary skill in theart after reading this disclosure.
SUMMARY
In accordance with embodiments of the invention, techniques aredescribed for adjusting the compression rate used for compressing a datafile representing an image. The images can be medical imagery such asx-ray, CT scan, MRI, mammogram, sonogram, or other types of images.
For such images, an image source and an image characterization areidentified, and a compression rate is selected based upon the imagesource and the image characterization. The image source can refer to thedevice type that created the image data file or to the data format ofthe image data file. The image characterization can be a wide variety ofparameters related to the depicted image. For example, the imagecharacterization can comprise data that indicates an anatomical contentof the image that can be identified by a user or that can beautomatically identified. The image characterization can also comprise apurpose of study of the image. In addition, the image characterizationcan comprise a metric such as a diagnostic value of the source of theimage that can be identified by a user or automatically identified.
The techniques can also comprise compressing the data file using theselected compression rate. The techniques can be implemented on acomputer processing apparatus adapted for processing the data filerepresenting an image. The computer processing apparatus may comprise anetwork communications interface that permits communications between theapparatus and a network. The computer processing apparatus may furthercomprise a processor that receives the data file representing an imageand identifies an image source and an image characterization associatedwith the file. The computer processing apparatus preferably selects acompression rate based upon the image source of the imagecharacterization.
Other features and advantages of the present invention should beapparent from the following description of the exemplary embodiments,which illustrate, by way of example, principles of the presentinvention.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
FIG. 1 is a block diagram representation of a local area network inwhich digital images can be shared and stored.
FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating an example of a structure of animage data file.
FIG. 3 is a flow chart illustrating an example of determining acompression rate.
FIG. 4 is a flow chart illustrating an example of determining acompression rate based upon anatomical content of the image.
FIG. 5 is a flow chart illustrating another example of determining acompression rate based upon a purpose of study of the image.
FIG. 6 is a flow chart illustrating yet another example of determining acompression rate based upon a diagnostic value of a particular source.
FIG. 7 is a flow chart illustrating another example of determining acompression rate.
FIG. 8 is a block diagram representation of a data network environmentin which digital images can be sent and received over a computernetwork.
FIG. 9 is a block diagram of an exemplary computer for executing imagecompression.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
The present invention can be used for processing image files related tomedical diagnosis and the life sciences, where image fidelity isimportant. Imagery is a valuable tool in medical diagnosis andtreatment. For example, radiology is a medical field that has madeextensive use of film images for years. More recently digital technologyhas been applied to radiology imagery including digital captured imagesand digital conversions of film images. Digital radiology allows for thestorage and transmission of digital data file representations ofradiology images. While digital data files have features that aresuperior to film imagery, in particular when storing or transmittingimages, a drawback is that high fidelity digital representation ofradiology images results in data files that are large, requiring largeamounts of data storage and communication channels with high bandwidthfor transmission.
Conventional data compression techniques have been applied to radiologyimage files with limited success. While conventional data compressiontechniques may result in smaller data file size, they can also result inunacceptable loss of fidelity in the reconstructed image. This loss infidelity can result in the reconstructed image being of limited, or no,use to a radiologist. Techniques are described herein that adjust thecompression rates used to compress image files based upon the imagesource and a characterization of the image while maintaining adequatefidelity of the reconstructed image to ensure the compressed images areuseful.
FIG. 1 is a block diagram representation of a local area network withimage source devices and processing stations in which digital images canbe shared and stored in accordance with the invention. As shown in FIG.1, a local area network 102 can be accessed by multiple users ofdevices. For example, in a health care facility the local area network102 may be accessed by multiple image sources that acquire imagery, suchas an x-ray image source 104, CT image source 106, sonogram image source108, mammogram image source 110, and an MRI image source 112. Imageryacquired by the sources may be shared with user workstations 114, 116,and 118 or stored in data storage 120 via the local area network 102. Animage source may share or store the raw, or non-processed, image data orit may do some processing of the image such as compress the image asdescribed below. The workstations may view imagery acquired by an imagesource directly from the image source or an image that has been storedin data storage 120 or local storage included in the image source or theworkstation. The workstations may also process imagery and save theprocessed imagery. In addition, an image source can also be used as aworkstation.
A wireless access point 130 may also interface to the local area network102. The wireless access point 130 can allow a remote image source 140access to the local area network 102. The wireless access point 130 canalso allow a remote workstation 142, or a remote local area network 144access to the local area network 102. For example, a remote image source140, such as an x-ray machine, may produce an x-ray image of a patientin an ambulance and transmit it to the local area network 102 of ahealth facility where the patient is being taken. Prior to thetransmission the imagery of the x-ray may be compressed as describedbelow. At the health facility a health care provider may access thex-ray on a workstation to prepare treatment in advance of the patient'sarrival. Likewise, imagery may be transmitted to a remote local areanetwork 144 or remote workstation 142. For example, imagery may betransmitted to an expert at a remote local so that the expert can assistin diagnosis and treatment of a patient. In all of these examples, theimage remote location data may be compressed in accordance with one ormore of adjustable compression rates described below.
FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating an example of a structure of animage data file 200. The image data file 200 includes at least twodifferent types of data, image characterization data 202 and image data204. The image data 204 is the data used to present the image and may beraw image data, original image data, or compressed image data. The imagecharacterization data 202 includes fields or tags that identify variouscharacteristics of the image. For example, the image characterizationdata 202 can include fields or tags identifying an image source device,an anatomical content of the image, a diagnostic value of the image, apurpose of study of the image, or other characteristic of the image. Theimage data file 200 may be stored in the data storage 120 of the systemor it may also be stored in data storage of the source devices or remotestations, etc.
FIG. 3 is a flowchart illustrating an example of determining acompression rate with the system of FIG. 1. Flow begins in block 302.Flow continues to block 304 where the source of an image, or the type ofdevice producing the image, is identified. For example, as previouslydescribed different sources of images can include X-ray machines, CTscanners, mammogram machines, MRI machines, sonogram machines, opticalscanners, as well as other types of diagnostic devices that producedigital images. Flow continues to block 306 where an imagecharacterization for the image is identified. For example, imagecharacterizations can include the anatomical content of the image, orthe purpose of study for which the image will be used, or the quality ordiagnostic value of the image.
Flow then continues to block 308 where a compression rate is determinedbased upon the image source and image characterization. In other words,the system identifies the source of the image, and also identifies oneor more characterizations about the image. The image characterizationdata may be a data field associated with the digital data file and whichidentifies a characteristic of the image and of the data file. Then,applying rules for that type of image source and the imagecharacterization, a compression rate or value is determined. Flow thencontinues to block 310.
Image characterization data for an image may be entered by a user ordetermined automatically. For example, the anatomical content of animage may be identified and entered by a user such as a radiologistexamining an x-ray. Or, the anatomical content of an image may bedetermined automatically, such as by a software routine that processesthe image data and identifies regions within the image and associatesthese regions with anatomical structures.
Also, the image characterization data may be determined at the time ofcompression or it may be included within the data file representing theimage. For example, the anatomical content may be determined, eithermanually or automatically, when the data file is compressed. Or, theanatomical content of the image may have been previously determinedbefore compression and may be included within the image data file, suchas a data field or tag within the file identifying what anatomicalstructure is depicted within the image. For example, an x-ray technicianmay identify that an x-ray image is of a particular anatomicalstructure, such as a chest or a femur, and this information may beincluded as a data field or tag within the data file representing theimage.
FIG. 4 is a flowchart illustrating an example of determining acompression rate from an image characterization that is based, in part,upon anatomical content of an image. Flow begins in block 402. Flowcontinues to block 404 where the image source, or device producing theimage, is identified. Flow continues to block 406 where the anatomicalcontent of the image is identified. For example, the anatomical contentcould be a knee, a chest, a lung, a pancreas or a liver. As noted, theanatomical content may be identified manually or automatically.
Flow continues to block 408 where compression rate is determined basedupon the image source and the anatomical content of the image. In otherwords, a system identifies the source or device producing the image, andalso identifies the gross anatomy of the image. Then, applying rules forthat type of image source and that type of anatomy, a compression valueis determined.
For example, an x-ray image may normally be compressed at a nominal rateof 8:1 set by medically acceptable standards, where the size of the datafile representing the image is reduced by a factor of 8 aftercompression, but that rate may be adjusted depending on thecharacterization of the image. If the image characterization of thex-ray image identifies that the image includes a particular anatomicalcontent, then the system may adjust the rate. For example, if a chestx-ray is being compressed, it may be acceptable to adjust the nominalcompression rate of 8:1 down to a rate of 4:1, while maintainingsufficient fidelity of the reconstructed image. Likewise, if the x-rayis of a femur, it may be acceptable to adjust the nominal compressionrate up to a rate of 10:1 because adequate fidelity may be maintained atthis higher compression rate for an x-ray of a femur. After compressionrate is determined, flow continues to block 410.
FIG. 5 is a flowchart illustrating an example of determining acompression rate from an image characterization that is based, in part,upon a purpose of study of the image. Flow begins in block 502. Flowcontinues to block 504 where the image source is identified. Flow thencontinues to block 506. In block 506, the purpose of study that theimage will be used for is identified. Examples of different studypurposes include using the image for a search for cancer, a bonefracture or a tissue rupture.
Flow then continues to block 508 where a compression rate based upon theimage source and purpose of study is determined. For example, a typicalx-ray image may be compressed at a nominal ratio of 8:1, but dependingon the purpose of study, that rate may be adjusted. If an x-ray is beingused to identify a hairline fracture, then it may be desired to reducethe nominal compression rate of 8:1 to a lower rate, such as 4:1, so asto maintain adequate fidelity in an image reconstructed from thecompressed data file, to identify the hairline fracture. On the otherhand, if the purpose of study is to identify a complete fracture, thenit may be acceptable to increase the nominal compression rate of 8:1 toa higher rate, such as 10:1, because adequate fidelity may be maintainedin the reconstructed image to identify a complete fracture at thishigher rate of compression. Flow then continues to block 510 for furthersystem processing.
FIG. 6 is a flowchart illustrating an example of determining acompression rate based, in part, upon a diagnostic value of a particularproduced image. Flow begins in block 602. Flow continues to block 604where the type of image source is identified. Flow then continues toblock 606 where a diagnostic value, or quality, of the particular imageproduced by the source is identified. For example, the diagnostic valueof a first x-ray image may be different than diagnostic value of asecond x-ray image. In other words, for two x-ray images of the sameobject or subject, a first image may be at a higher resolution, may haveless noise, or may have other characteristics indicating it was producedat a better quality than the second image. Differences in image qualityare common, as patients may move during imaging or operational settingsof the imaging source may be changed from image to image. Thus, thediagnostic value of the first image can be said to be greater than thediagnostic value of the second image. Flow then continues to block 608where a compression rate based upon the type of image source and adiagnostic value of the particular image produced is determined. Forexample, if a particular image source has a high diagnostic value, itmay be desirable to increase the compression rate used to compressimages from the particular source above a nominal compression rate for atypical image source of the same type. Likewise, if the diagnostic valueis low, it may be desired to decrease the compression rate below thenominal rate. Adjusting the compression rate based upon the diagnosticvalue of images from a particular source may be used to maintainadequate fidelity in an image reconstructed from the compressed datafile. Flow then continues to block 610.
The diagnostic value of output produced from different image sources canvary for many reasons. For example, two x-ray devices that are the samemodels may nevertheless produce different quality images because ofvarious reasons such as maintenance issues or installation differencesor operator skill. Likewise, the same image source's diagnostic valuecan change over time. That is, an x-ray device may produce images of acertain quality when first manufactured, but the image quality maydeteriorate over time as the device is ages.
The diagnostic value of an image source may be determined in differentways. For example, a calibration procedure or test may be performed onthe image source and a figure of merit corresponding to the quality, ordiagnostic value of images produced by the source, identified. Likewise,an analysis of an image may be performed automatically to identify thediagnostic value of the image.
FIG. 7 is a flowchart illustrating another example of determining acompression rate. Flow begins in block 702. Flow continues to block 704where the image source is identified. Then, in block 706, a diagnosticvalue of the particular image source is identified. Flow continues toblock 708 where the purpose of study for the image, is identified. Flowcontinues to block 710 where the anatomical content of the image isidentified. Flow then continues to block 712 where a compression ratebased on image source, diagnostic value, purpose of study and anatomicalcontent is determined.
In other embodiments one or more of the type of image source or imagecharacteristics may be used to determine a compression rate. Forexample, one or more of the image sources, diagnostic value, purpose ofstudy or anatomical content can be used in determining a compressionrate.
The techniques described can be used with various types of datacompression algorithms. For example, the techniques can be used withcompression algorithms such as Huffman coding, arithmetic coding, JPEGcoding, and JPEG-2000 coding.
FIG. 8 is a block diagram representation of a data network environment800 in which digital images can be sent and received over a computernetwork 806. Communications over the network can occur, for example,according to transport mechanisms such as TCP/IP, or can be receivedaccording to network-specific protocols. In the FIG. 8 illustratedembodiment, the image sources can include health care providers 808 suchas individual physicians and other allied providers, medical centers 810such as hospitals and patient care or managed care facilities,laboratories 812 such as medical labs and diagnostic centers, andvendors and users 814, including individual patients, administrationservices such as management and insurance providers, and other networkusers who need to communicate images with one of the other network users808, 810, 812, 814. The network 806 can comprise a local area network(LAN) that interconnects the network nodes 808, 810, 812, 814. Thenetwork 806 can include communications over the Internet, or over acombination of local and wide area networks, including intranets andextranets.
As illustrated in FIG. 8, there can also be one or more mobile units820, 822 that are in wireless communication with a base station 826 thatis in communication with the network 806. The mobile units 820, 822 mayalso communicate directly with each other. The base station 826 cancomprise a network access point or an operational work station such as808-814. In one example, the mobile units 820, 822 could be emergencyunits, or other first responders, that can be dispatched to an accidentor emergency situation. The remote units 820, 822 may include diagnosticequipment, such as x-ray equipment. Upon arriving at an accident oremergency scene, the remote unit 820, 822 may gather diagnostic imagery,compress it using the techniques described and send it over the wirelesscommunication channel to the base station 826 where others connected tothe network 806 have access to the image. Because the wirelesscommunication channel will generally have limited bandwidth, this may betaken into consideration when compressing the imagery. Users 808, 810,812, 814 on the network may also transmit imagery to each other and tothe remote unit 820, 822 using the compression techniques described. Inaddition, remote units may communicate imagery between each other usingthe compression techniques described. The embodiment of FIG. 8 may alsobe used in other environments, for example, battlefield environmentswhere remote units 820, 822 may include doctors and field hospitalssetup to assist troops during combat or in other hostile environments.
FIG. 9 shows an exemplary computer 900 for executing the operationsdescribed above. The computer 900 operates in a networked environmentthat permits communication with other computers. The computer 900operates under control of a central processor unit (CPU) 902, such as a“Pentium” microprocessor and associated integrated circuit chips,available from Intel Corporation of Santa Clara, Calif., USA. A computeruser can input commands and data from a keyboard and computer mouse 904,and can view inputs and computer output at a display 906. The display906 is typically a video monitor or flat panel display. The computer 900also typically includes a direct access storage device (DASD) 908, suchas a hard disk drive. A memory 910 typically comprises volatilesemiconductor random access memory (RAM). Each computer 900 preferablyincludes a program product reader 912 that accepts a program productstorage device 914, from which the program product reader 912 can readdata (and to which it can optionally write data). The program productreader can comprise, for example, a disk drive, and the program productstorage device 914 can comprise removable storage media such as amagnetic floppy disk, a CD-R disc, a CD-RW disc, or DVD disc.
The computer 900 can communicate with any other computers, if networked,over a computer network 920 (such as the Internet or an intranet. or awireless communication channel) through a network interface 918 thatenables communication over a connection 922 between the network 920 andthe computer. The network interface 918 typically comprises, forexample, a Network Interface Card (NIC) or a modem that permitscommunications over a variety of networks. or a wireless modem.
The CPU 902 operates under control of programming instructions that aretemporarily stored in the memory 910 of the computer 900. When theprogramming instructions are executed, the computer 900 performs itsfunctions. Thus, the programming implements the functionality of thesystem described above. The programming steps can be received from theDASD 908, through the program product storage device 914, or through thenetwork connection 922. The program product storage drive 912 canreceive a program product 914, read programming instructions recordedthereon, and transfer the programming steps into the memory 910 forexecution by the CPU 902. As noted above, the program product storagedevice 914 can comprise any one of multiple removable media havingrecorded computer-readable instructions, including magnetic floppy disksand CD-ROM storage discs. Other suitable program product storage devices914 can include magnetic tape and semiconductor memory chips. In thisway, the processing steps necessary for operation in accordance with theinvention can be embodied on a program product.
Alternatively, the program steps can be received into the operatingmemory 910 over the network 920. In the network method, the computer 900receives data including program steps into the memory 910 through thenetwork interface 918 after network communication has been establishedover the network connection 922 by well-known methods that will beunderstood by those skilled in the art without further explanation. Theprogram steps are then executed by the CPU 902 thereby comprising acomputer process.
Thus, embodiments of the present invention provide techniques forcompressing data files. The compressed data files can be stored as wellas routed over data networks, or message systems. The techniques,applicable in a variety of message systems, improve the efficiency andappropriateness of message handling.
The present invention has been described above in terms of presentlypreferred embodiments so that an understanding of the present inventioncan be conveyed. There are, however, many configurations for networkmessage processing not specifically described herein but with which thepresent invention is applicable. The present invention should thereforenot be seen as limited to the particular embodiments described herein,but rather, it should be understood that the present invention has wideapplicability with respect to network message processing generally. Allmodifications, variations, or equivalent arrangements andimplementations that are within the scope of the attached claims shouldtherefore be considered within the scope of the invention.
1. A method of processing a data file representing an image, the methodcomprising: identifying an image source device associated with theimage; identifying image characterization data associated with theimage; and selecting a compression rate based upon the image sourcedevice and the image characterization data.
2. A method as defined inclaim 1, wherein image characterization data identifies an anatomicalcontent of the image.
3. A method as defined in claim 2, whereinidentifying the anatomical content of the image comprises putting imagecharacterization data in an image data file.
4. A method as defined inclaim 2, wherein identifying the anatomical content of the imagecomprises automatically identifying anatomical content with a computer.5. A method as defined in claim 1, wherein image characterization dataidentifies a purpose of study of the image.
6. A method as defined inclaim 1, wherein image characterization data identifies a diagnosticvalue of the image.
7. A method as defined in claim 6, whereinidentifying the diagnostic value of the image comprises putting imagecharacterization data on a computer interface.
8. A method as defined inclaim 6, wherein identifying the diagnostic value of the image datacomprises automatically identifying diagnostic value with a computer. 9.A method as defined in claim 1, wherein the image source device is oneof an MRI device, an x-ray device, a CT Scan device, a mammogram device,or a sonogram device.
10. A method as defined in claim 1, furthercomprising compressing the data file using the selected compressionrate.
11. A computer processing apparatus for processing a data filerepresenting an image, the apparatus comprising: a networkcommunications interface that permits communications between theapparatus and a network; a processor that receives the data file via theinterface and identifies an image source device and an imagecharacterization associated with the data file, and selects acompression rate based upon the identified image source device and theimage characterization.
12. A method as defined in claim 11, wherein theimage characterization data identifies an anatomical content of theimage.
13. A method as defined in claim 12, wherein identifying theanatomical content of the image comprises putting image characterizationdata in an image data file.
14. A method as defined in claim 12, whereinidentifying the anatomical content of the image comprises automaticallyidentifying anatomical content with a computer.
15. A method as definedin claim 11, wherein image characterization data identifies a purpose ofstudy of the image.
16. A method as defined in claim 11, wherein imagecharacterization data identifies a diagnostic value of the image.
17. Amethod as defined in claim 16, wherein identifying the diagnostic valueof the image comprises putting image characterization metadata on acomputer in an image data file.
18. A method as defined in claim 16,wherein identifying the diagnostic value of the image data comprisesautomatically identifying diagnostic value with a computer.
19. A methodas defined in claim 11, wherein the image source device is one of an MRIdevice, an x-ray device, a CT Scan device, a mammogram device, and asonogram device.
20. A method as defined in claim 11, further comprisingcompressing the data file using the selected compression rate.
21. Aprogram product comprising program code of machine readable media forcausing a machine to perform operations of: identifying an image sourcedevice associated with the image; identifying image characterizationdata associated with the image; and selecting a compression rate basedupon the image source device and the image characterization data.
22. Aprogram product as defined in claim 21, wherein image characterizationdata identifies an anatomical content of the image.
23. A programproduct as defined in claim 21, wherein image characterization dataidentifies a purpose of study of the image.
24. A program product asdefined in claim 21 wherein image characterization data identifies adiagnostic value of the source of the image.
25. A program product asdefined in claim 21, wherein the image source device is one of an MRIdevice, an x-ray device, a CT Scan device, a mammogram device, and asonogram device.
26. A program product as defined in claim 21, furthercomprising compressing the data file using the selected compressionrate..
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FIGS. 34 and 35 show a device 3400 having a reservoir 3404, a flat handle 3402, and a stem 3406 connecting the reservoir 3404 and the handle 3402. In FIG. 34 the handle 3402 is shown in front view, while in FIG. 35 the handle 3402 is shown in side view. Typically the stem 3406 is solid, as opposed to being hollow, in the embodiment shown. The stem can be, for example, round or flat. If flat, it can be as wide, for example, as the width of the reservoir 3404. During use a bottle of medication is positioned at opening 3410 at the top of the device 3400, and one or more drops of medication is dripped or sprayed (or otherwise added) to the reservoir 3404. This medication collects at the bottom of the reservoir 3404 and can then be poured or squeezed into a patient's ear (see FIGS. 38 and 39, showing a modified version of device 3400 without stem or handle but similar mode of operation). With this design, delivery of the medication is typically by pouring rather than squeezing. In an embodiment, the device 3400 can be configured to dispense an amount of fluid that ranges from 0.05 ml to 0.5 ml. In an embodiment, the device can be configured to dispense an amount of fluid that ranges from 0.05 ml to 1 ml. In an embodiment, the device 3400 can be configured to dispense an amount of fluid that ranges from 0.05 ml to 5 ml.
FIGS. 36 and 37 show a stemless design wherein device 3600 includes a single reservoir 3602, typically elongate, with an opening 3610. Bottle 1000 is representative of bottles commercially available for storing and dispensing medications for a patient's ear, and is used to deliver medication 3608 into the reservoir 3602. FIGS. 38 and 39 show the stemless design of device 3600, which is placed in the outer ear and squeezed to deliver the medication into the inner ear. Alternatively the medication can be delivered by tipping the ear into a more upward orientation, with the device 3600 rotated so that opening 3610 is pointing downward so that the medication 3608 collects near the opening 3610 and either flows by gravity into the ear, or is assisted by squeezing of the reservoir 3602 to provide pressure and air flow to direct the medication into the ear.
FIG. 40 is a perspective view of a device 4000 for dispensing medication, according to an alternative embodiment. The device has a first hollow bulb 4002 and a second hollow bulb 4004 connected by a hollow stem 4006. The second hollow bulb has an opening 4010 at one end to allow fluid flow out of the bulb 4004. Both the bulb 4002 and bulb 4004 have openings connected to hollow stem 4006 such that the first bulb 4002 and second bulb 4004 are in fluid communication via stem 4006. Fluids such as air or liquid can pass from one bulb to the other bulb through stem 4006.
The second bulb 4004 is configured to receive a liquid medication. For example, the liquid can be dispensed into the hollow bulb 4004 via a bottle of liquid, similar to the method shown and described in connection with FIGS. 26 and 27. Other methods of dispensing liquid into the bulb 4004 are contemplated, such as insertion of liquid into the hollow bulb 4004 using a syringe.
The bulb 4002 is filled with fluid. In one embodiment, the bulb 4002 is filled mostly with a volume of air. The bulb 4002 may alternatively be filled with both air and liquid, or only with a volume of liquid. The bulb 4004 is filled with fluid. In one embodiment, the bulb 4004 is filled mostly with a volume of liquid. The bulb 4004 may alternatively be filled with both air and liquid, or only with a volume of air.
In one embodiment, it is desirable to prevent liquid from entering the bulb 4002. In this case, the internal diameter of the hollow stem 4006 may be narrowed. In an embodiment, the internal diameter of the hollow stem 4006 may be smaller than about 0.10 inches. The stem 4006 may alternatively be smaller than about 0.060 inches. The stem 4006 may alternatively be smaller than about 0.040 inches. The stem 4006 may alternatively be smaller than about 0.020 inches. If the diameter of the hollow stem 4006 cannot be sufficiently narrowed during the manufacturing process, an insert may be put into or near the opening of the hollow stem 4006. The insert may be an O-ring or a plug. In an embodiment, the insert may narrow the internal diameter of the hollow stem 4006 to be smaller than about 0.10 inches. Alternatively, the insert may narrow the internal diameter of the hollow stem 4006 to be smaller than about 0.060 inches. Alternatively, the insert may narrow the internal diameter of the hollow stem 4006 to be smaller than about 0.040 inches. Alternatively, the insert may narrow the internal diameter of the hollow stem 4006 to be smaller than about 0.020 inches. The insert may be placed into the hollow stem 4006 during manufacture of the device 4000, or may be placed after manufacture. The insert may be fused to the hollow stem 4006. The small diameter of the insert will limit the amount of fluid flow from bulb 4004 into bulb 4002.
Alternatively, a valve could be inserted into or near the hollow stem 4006. The valve prevents fluid in bulb 4004 from passing through the hollow stem 4006 into the bulb 4002, while allowing fluid to flow from the bulb 4002 into the bulb 4004. The valve may be a flap, a one-way valve, a check-valve, or another type of suitable valve. In an embodiment, pressure applied to the bulb, such as by squeezing the bulb 4002 with the fingers, actuates the valve, allowing fluid, such as air, to pass from bulb 4002 through the hollow stem 4006 and into the bulb 4004, while preventing fluid in bulb 4004 from passing through hollow stem 4006 and into the bulb 4002.
The first bulb 4002 is configured to be compressible. For example, the bulb 4002 can be compressed between a user's two fingers. Compressing the bulb 4002 puts pressure on the fluid inside of the bulb, which causes the fluid to exit the bulb 4002 through the hollow stem 4006 and flow into the second hollow bulb 4004. The pressure may then cause fluid in the second bulb 4004 to exit the opening 4010, allowing liquid medication to be propelled into a patient's ear canal in a similar manner to that shown and described in relation to FIG. 33.
The device 4000 may also comprise support members 4021, 4022. The support members 4021, 4022 may be disposed on each side of the hollow stem 4006. The support members 4021, 4022 span the gap between bulb 4002 and bulb 4004, connecting the two bulbs and providing stability. In one embodiment the support members 4021, 4022 are flat and define a plane that intersects the stem 4006. In alternative embodiments, the support members 4021, 4022 could be disposed such that they do not define a plane. It is contemplated that in alternative embodiments there could be more than two support members. In some embodiments, device 4000 can be monolithic, such that the first bulb 4002, the second bulb 4004, the stem 4006, and the support members 4021, 4022 are formed or created together or from a single piece of polymer. The device 4000 can be monolithic, such that the device 4000 is a single continuous piece of polymer. In various embodiments, the device 4000 can be configured such that no part of the device can fall off, separate, or become lodged within the patient's ear canal.
In various embodiments, the device 4000 can be made from a polymer, such as a transparent or translucent polymer (such as polyethylene, polypropylene, and combinations thereof), and can, for example, be made using injection or blow molding techniques. Rubber is also a suitable material for some implementations. A transparent or translucent polymer can allow a person to see into the inner portions of the device 4000, such as to determine if there is liquid in the second bulb 4004 or how much liquid is in the second bulb 4004. In various embodiments, the device 4000 can include polystyrene or polyethylene.
FIG. 41 is a side view of the device 4000. FIG. 41 shows that the first bulb 4002 and the second bulb 4004 are separated by a gap 4130, but connected by the stem 4006. FIG. 41 also shows the outside edge of support member 4022. The support members 4021, 4022 form a plane, and therefore only one edge of the support member 4022 can be seen from the side view perspective.
FIG. 42 is a top view of the device 4000. The support members 4021, 4022 are seen on both sides of the hollow stem 4006. The support members 4021, 4022 span the gap between first bulb 4002 and second bulb 4004. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 42, the support members 4021, 4022 and the stem 4006 are in contact with the stem 4006. In alternative embodiments, the support members 4021, 4022 could be configured so that the support members 4021, 4022 are not in contact with the stem 4006 (e.g., there could be a gap between the support members 4021, 4022 and the stem 4006).
In an embodiment, the stem 4006 and support members 4021, 4022 flexibly couples the first bulb 4002 and second bulb 4004. As can be seen in FIG. 42, the support members 4021, 4022 provide stability to prevent the stem 4006 from moving in the side-to-side direction. However, as can be seen in FIG. 41, the support members 4021, 4022 do not provide stability in the up/down direction. This can be seen more clearly in FIG. 43.
FIG. 43 is side view of a device 4300 with a stem 4306 that flexibly couples a first hollow bulb 4302 and a second hollow bulb 4304. The device 4300 can be similar to the device 4000, shown and described in connection with FIGS. 40-42. The device 4300 can have support members. FIG. 43 shows a support member 4322 in profile. The support member 4322 is similar to the support member 4022 in FIGS. 40-42. The support members 4322 and the stem 4306 of device 4300 is formed of a material that is sufficiently flexible to allow the first bulb 4302 and second bulb 4304 to move relative to one another. Preferably, the support members 4322 provide a restricted range of motion, so as to provide stability and durability to the stem 4306 while still allowing the bulb 4302 and bulb 4304 to move relative to each other. For example, the support members 4322 may limit the motion to be in a single plane of motion.
When the device 4300 is in its resting state, the stem 4306 is straight, similar to the stem 4006 in FIG. 41. When the second bulb 4304 is inserted into the ear, however, the stem 4306 can bend as shown in FIG. 43. This allows the second bulb 4304 to follow the natural bend of the ear canal upon insertion. This provides improved comfort for the patient, and increases the ability to direct the flow of liquid medication into the correct location in the patient's ear.
FIG. 44 is perspective view of a device for dispensing medication, according to an alternative embodiment. The body of the device may be similar to that described in connection with FIGS. 40-43, however, the embodiment disclosed in FIG. 44 is not so limited.
The device 4400 has a first hollow bulb 4402 and a second hollow bulb 4404 which are connected by a hollow stem, similar to the stem 4006 of FIGS. 40-42. The hollow stem allows fluid, such as liquid or air, to pass from the first hollow bulb 4402 into the second hollow bulb 4404 when the first bulb 4402 is compressed. The device 4400 may include support members 4420 that span a gap 4430 between the first bulb 4402 and second bulb 4404.
Inserting liquid medication into a patient's ear can cause the air pressure in the ear to increase. This happens, for example, when air is not allowed to enter or exit the ear canal when inserting the liquid. The liquid displaces the volume of air in the ear canal, increasing the air pressure. This can cause discomfort to the patient, and even potential damage to the ear drum.
To prevent the increase of air pressure inside the patient's ear when liquid is propelled out of the tip 4410 of the bulb 4400 into the ear canal, the bulb 4404 has one or more grooves 4450 along the outside surface of the bulb 4404. The grooves 4450 extend along the bulb 4404 between the gap 4430 and the tip 4410 of the bulb 4404. The grooves 4450 of FIG. 44 are substantially straight, without curvature. The grooves prevent the device 4400 from creating an airtight seal when the second bulb 4404 is inserted into a patient's ear canal. Air can flow freely in and out of the ear canal through the grooves. When liquid is propelled into the patient's ear canal through the tip 4410 of the second bulb 4404, the liquid displaces air within the ear canal, but the air can escape through the grooves 4450. Thus the grooves 4450 regulate the air pressure in the ear canal. This allows for greater propulsion of liquid into the ear canal, and more effective delivery of liquid medication.
FIG. 45 is perspective view of a device 4500 for dispensing medication, according to an alternative embodiment. Like the device 4400, the device 4500 has a first hollow bulb 4502, second hollow bulb 4504, a hollow stem connecting the bulbs 4502, 4504, optional support member 4520, and a gap 4530 between the first bulb 4502 and second bulb 4504. Device 4500 also has grooves 4550 extending from the gap 4530 toward the tip 4510 of the second bulb 4504. In the embodiment of FIG. 45, the grooves 4550 are not straight, but are curved slightly in a helical direction around the axis of the second bulb 4504. The grooves 4550 regulate air pressure in the ear canal in a similar manner to the grooves 4450 in the embodiment of FIG. 44. Because the groove 4550 is curved helically around the surface of the second bulb 4504, the cross-sectional area available for passage of air into and out of the ear canal is slightly increased compared to the straight groove 4450.
FIG. 46 demonstrates the device 4300 being inserted into a patient's ear canal 4601.
FIG. 47A is a perspective view of a device for dispensing medication, according to an embodiment. The device has a first hollow bulb 4002 and a second hollow bulb 4004 connected by a hollow stem 4006. The second hollow bulb has an opening 4010 at one end to allow fluid flow out of the bulb 4004. Both the bulb 4002 and bulb 4004 have openings connected to hollow stem 4006 such that the first bulb 4002 and second bulb 4004 are in fluid communication via stem 4006.
Fluids such as air or liquid can pass from one bulb to the other bulb through stem 4006. The second bulb 4002 is filled with a liquid by way of fill port 4030. In the embodiment shown the fill port 4030 has an X-shape, allowing for insertion of a tip of a bottle into the bulb 4002, but also providing resistance to fluid flow back out through the fill port 4030. Generally a finger is placed over fill port 4030 when administering fluids so as to prevent the fluid from flowing back out of bulb 4002, and to allow pressure to develop in the second bulb 4002 to propel fluids through the second bulb 4004 and out the tip 4010. The fill port 4030 is optionally a raised or protruding area of the bulb 4002. In the depicted example embodiment the fill port 4030 is shown in a recessed area 4030A, this recessed area 4030A has a benefit of making it easier for a medical professional to locate the fill port 4030 tactually (such as by rolling the device between their fingers once medicine has been added, without looking at the device, thereby allowing them to make sure they have covered the fill port 4030 with their finger when pinching the device to administer the medication).
FIG. 47B is a perspective view of a device for dispensing medication, according to an embodiment. The device has a first hollow bulb 4002 and a second hollow bulb 4004 connected by a hollow stem 4006. The second hollow bulb has an opening 4010 at one end to allow fluid flow out of the bulb 4004. Both the bulb 4002 and bulb 4004 have openings connected to hollow stem 4006 such that the first bulb 4002 and second bulb 4004 are in fluid communication via stem 4006. Fluids such as air or liquid can pass from one bulb to the other bulb through stem 4006. The second bulb 4002 is filled with a liquid by way of fill port 4030. In the embodiment shown the fill port 4030 has a U-shape, allowing for insertion of a tip of a bottle into the bulb 4002, but also providing resistance to fluid flow back out through the fill port 4030. Generally a finger is placed over fill port 4030 when administering fluids so as to prevent the fluid from flowing back out, and to allow pressure to develop in the second bulb 4002 to propel fluids through the second bulb 4004 and out the tip 4010.
FIG. 47C is a perspective view of a device for dispensing medication, according to an embodiment. The device has a first hollow bulb 4002 and a second hollow bulb 4004 connected by a hollow stem 4006. The second hollow bulb has an opening 4010 at one end to allow fluid flow out of the bulb 4004. Both the bulb 4002 and bulb 4004 have openings connected to hollow stem 4006 such that the first bulb 4002 and second bulb 4004 are in fluid communication via stem 4006. Fluids such as air or liquid can pass from one bulb to the other bulb through stem 4006.
The bulb 4002 is filled with a liquid by way of fill port 4030. In the embodiment shown the fill port 4030 has an U-shape, opposite to the one shown in FIG. 47B, allowing for insertion of a tip of a bottle into the bulb 4002, but also providing resistance to fluid flow back out through the fill port 4030. Generally a finger is placed over fill port 4030 when administering fluids so as to prevent the fluid from flowing back out, and to allow pressure to develop in the second bulb 4002 to propel fluids through the second bulb 4004 and out the tip 4010.
FIG. 47D is a perspective view of a device for dispensing medication, according to an embodiment. The device has a first hollow bulb 4002 and a second hollow bulb 4004 connected by a hollow stem 4006. The second hollow bulb has an opening 4010 at one end to allow fluid flow out of the bulb 4004. Both the bulb 4002 and bulb 4004 have openings connected to hollow stem 4006 such that the first bulb 4002 and second bulb 4004 are in fluid communication via stem 4006. Fluids such as air or liquid can pass from one bulb to the other bulb through stem 4006. The second bulb 4002 is filled with a liquid by way of fill port 4030. In the embodiment shown the fill port 4030 has opening allowing for insertion of a tip of a bottle into the bulb 4002. Generally a finger is placed over fill port 4030 when administering fluids so as to prevent the fluid from flowing back out, and to allow pressure to develop in the bulb 4002 to propel fluids through the bulb 4004 and out the tip 4010.
FIG. 47E is a perspective view of a device for dispensing medication, according to an embodiment. The device has a first hollow bulb 4002 and a second hollow bulb 4004 connected by a hollow stem 4006. The second hollow bulb has an opening 4010 at one end to allow fluid flow out of the bulb 4004. Both the bulb 4002 and bulb 4004 have openings connected to hollow stem 4006 such that the first bulb 4002 and second bulb 4004 are in fluid communication via stem 4006. Fluids such as air or liquid can pass from one bulb to the other bulb through stem 4006.
The bulb 4002 is filled with a liquid by way of fill port 4030. In the embodiment shown the fill port 4030 has valve 4032, shown in simplified form such as a silicone valve allowing for insertion of a tip of a bottle into the bulb 4002, but also preventing fluid flow back out through the fill port. Generally a finger is placed over fill port 4030 when administering fluids so as to prevent the fluid from flowing back out, and to allow pressure to develop in the second bulb 4002 to propel fluids through the bulb 4004 and out the tip 4010.
FIG. 48A is a perspective view of a device for dispensing medication according to an embodiment, the device comprising a two part design, the two parts shown separated. The design includes a sheath 4802 plus a bulb 4804. Bulb 4804 also includes an elongate exit tube 4803. These parts are shown combined in FIG. 48B. The sheath 4802 that is applied over the exit tube 4803 and secured in place with a glue or with an interlocking male/female features. The exit tube 4803 can optionally have a much smaller diameter than the opening 4810 on the sheath. A smaller tip help atomizes drops and helps propel drops more with added velocity, potentially increasing ear drop dose delivery. The tip of the sheath 4802 can be of varying lengths and inner/outer diameters. The inner diameter of the exit tube 4803 can optionally be no less than 1 mm to make gas sterilization at a hospital/surgery center easy and affordable. The inner diameter of exit tube 4803 can be as small as 0.2 mm in other implementations, such as for sterilization by radiation. The diameter of the opening 4810 in the sheath can be much larger, such as 7 mm. The tip length of the exit tube 4803 can be varied, such as 1 mm to 30 mm. In some implementations it extends outside of the opening 4810 of the sheath 4802. Typically there is a gap between the sheath 4802 and the end of the bulb 4804 to allow for pivoting of the sheath 4802 and 4804 relative to one another. The length is typically not so long as to touch the ear drum, thus avoiding trauma to the ear drum. The tip can be of material soft enough (low density polyethylene) and would have rounded edges to avoid discomfort or trauma to the ear canal skin. This tip helps aid in getting drops even further in the ear canal of the smallest ear canals, (the vented and conical shape portion of the device assure no one could insert the thin tip far enough to reach the ear drum). In some implementations a locking mechanism on exit tube 4803 can fit into a female portion of the sheath 4802 to secure the exit tube 4803 and sheath 4802 together. Optionally the sheath 4802 will have a hollow shaft that is just larger than the stem of exit tube 4803.
FIG. 49 is a perspective view of a device 4900 for dispensing medication, according to an embodiment, with an elongate tip 4906. The elongated tip 4906 is long enough to go through a hole (myringotomy, perforation, ear tube) so that medicine can be applied directly into the middle ear. This attribute is useful in some embodiments for delivering drugs (such as Otiprio) that are administered as a delayed release drug—via a syringe and long needle—directly into the middle ear. The drops with this long tip can be administered directly by a doctor under aid of an operating microscope.
FIG. 50 is a perspective view of a device 5000 for dispensing medication. The device has a first hollow bulb 5002 and a second hollow bulb 5004 connected by an elongate hollow stem 5006. The second hollow bulb has an opening 5010 at one end to allow to fluid flow out of the bulb 5004. Both the bulb 5002 and bulb 5004 have openings connected to hollow stem 5006 such that the first bulb 5002 and second bulb 5004 are in fluid communication via stem 5006.
Fluids such as air or liquid can pass from one bulb to the other bulb through stem 5006. Liquid medication is added to second bulb 5002 by way of fill port 5030. In the embodiment shown the fill port 5030 has an oval opening, allowing for insertion of a tip of a bottle into the bulb 5002. Generally a finger is placed over fill port 5030 when administering fluids so as to prevent the liquid medication from flowing back out of bulb 5002, and to allow air pressure to develop in the first bulb 5002 to propel fluids through the second bulb 5004 and out the tip 5010. The fill port 5030 is optionally a raised or protruding area of the bulb 5002.
FIG. 51 is a perspective view of the device 5000 for dispensing medication according to FIG. 50, showing the end bent for insertion of the second bulb 5005 into a patient's outer ear. Also shown is a vent 5008 in the second bulb 5004. These vents 5008 are such that insertion of the second bulb 5004 into a patient's outer ear does not create an air tight seal. As a result, excess pressure does not build up inside the ear when air and medicine is directed into the ear by contraction of first bulb 5002, even when that contraction of bulb 5002 is rapid and forceful. The ability of the first and second bulbs to move freely with regard to orientation of each other allows for application of medication into the inner ear without having the patient tilt his or head until the ear canal is pointing upright as is necessary with standard ear drops.
Benefits of this improved design can be seen in FIG. 52, which is a perspective view of the device 5000 for dispensing medication according to FIG. 50, showing the tip bent for insertion of the end of the second bulb 5004 into a patient's outer ear, and with medication 5040 collecting in the bottom 5003 of the first bulb 5002. The bottom 5003 of the first bulb 5002 has a tapered end leading into the hollow stem 5006. This tapered bottom 5003 is beneficial because it allows medication to collect in a small space leading directly into the hollow stem 5006 so that upon compression of the first bulb 5002, the expulsion of air from the first bulb 5002 will propel the mediation through the stem 5006, through the second bulb 5004, and out the opening 5010. Indicia can be added to the bottom 5003 of the first bulb 5002 to measure medication.
FIGS. 53 and 54 show the result of squeezing the first bulb 5002. In FIG. 53 the bulb 5002 is partially squeezed, with an initial volume of the medication 5040 having left the second bulb 5002, passed through the stem 5006 and second bulb 5004, and thereafter out the opening 5010. It will be observed that that in this manner the medication can be delivered horizontally out the device 5000, even while the top of the device 5000, in particular first bulb 5002, is kept vertical. FIG. 54 shows the remainder of the medication 5040 having been discharged as first bulb 5002 is further squeezed (opening 5030 would be covered so pressure can build up in bulb 5002).
Also, it will be observed that the present construction allows for the medication to be delivered in very small drops, much like a spray or mist, because typically a much greater amount of air is discharged than liquid. In this manner, the liquid is carried out by the air. The air pressure itself within the ear can be kept at a low differential to atmospheric air because, in part, of the relatively small volumes of air but also the venting provided by vent 5008 (see labeled vent in FIG. 50).
In an example implementation, approximately 1 mil of air is expelled from device 5000, while 0.1 mil of medication is discharged.
It will be understood that in some implementations the stem 5006 extends all the way through the second bulb 5004, and the stem 5006 terminates near the opening 5010 in the second bulb 5004. Thus, in some implementations medication passes through the interior of bulb 5004 without contacting the bulb. In this regard the bulb 5004 can be just a funnel-shaped addition to the device 5000, fitting over the end of the stem 5006.
FIG. 55 is a perspective view of a device for dispensing medication, including a two-part design with an end configured with a narrow end extension. The device has a first hollow bulb 5502 and a second hollow bulb 5504 connected by an elongate hollow stem 5506. The second hollow bulb has an opening 5510 at one end to allow fluid flow out of the bulb 5504. Both the bulb 5502 and bulb 5504 have openings connected to hollow stem 5506 such that the first bulb 5502 and second bulb 5504 are in fluid communication via stem 5506. The second bulb 5504 can travel back and forth along the stem 5506 in the direction A=A′, often to various set locations such as with notches, and as such the end 5518 at the tip 5516 of the stem 5506 can extend further beyond the opening 5510 at the second bulb 5504. Typically the end 5518 is a soft material. This configuration allows, for example, medication to be delivered deeper and with more focus into the inner ear, typically by a medical professional.
FIG. 56 is a perspective view of a device for dispensing medication, showing a device with gradations on the side.
FIG. 57 is a perspective view of a device for dispensing medication, showing a two-part configuration with a removable tip and a connector for securing the tip to the rest of the dispenser.
It should be noted that, as used in this specification and the appended claims, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” include plural referents unless the content clearly dictates otherwise. Thus, for example, reference to a composition containing “a compound” includes a mixture of two or more compounds. It should also be noted that the term “or” is generally employed in its sense including “and/or” unless the content clearly dictates otherwise.
It should also be noted that, as used in this specification and the appended claims, the phrase “configured” describes a system, apparatus, or other structure that is constructed or configured to perform a particular task or adopt a particular configuration to. The phrase “configured” can be used interchangeably with other similar phrases such as arranged and configured, constructed and arranged, constructed, manufactured and arranged, and the like.
All publications and patent applications in this specification are indicative of the level of ordinary skill in the art to which this technology pertains. All publications and patent applications are herein incorporated by reference to the same extent as if each individual publication or patent application was specifically and individually indicated by reference.
The technology has been described with reference to various specific and preferred embodiments and techniques. However, it should be understood that many variations and modifications may be made while remaining within the spirit and scope of the technology.
1.-13. (canceled)
14. A device for the dispensing of liquids, comprising: a first hollow bulb, wherein the first hollow bulb is compressible; a second hollow bulb; and a hollow stem comprising a first end and a second end, wherein the first hollow bulb is coupled to the first end and the second hollow bulb is coupled to the second end; wherein the second hollow bulb defines an opening opposite from the hollow stem; wherein the first hollow bulb is in fluid communication with the second hollow bulb; wherein the second end of the hollow stem terminates within the second hollow bulb.
15. The device for the dispensing of liquids according to claim 14, wherein the second end of the hollow stem is tapered.
16. The device for the dispensing of liquids according to claim 14, wherein the opening is a slit.
17. The device for the dispensing of liquids according to claim 14, wherein the opening comprises two perpendicular slits.
18. The device for the dispensing of liquids according to claim 14, wherein the second hollow bulb comprises volumetric indicia.
19. The device for the dispensing of liquids according to claim 14, wherein the stem is flexible.
20. The device for the dispensing of liquids according to claim 14, wherein the opening is defined by a rounded surface of the second hollow bulb.
21. The device for the dispensing of liquids according to claim 14, wherein the stem is enclosed within the first hollow bulb and the second hollow bulb.
22. The device for the dispensing of liquids according to claim 14, wherein the first hollow bulb, second hollow bulb, and the hollow stem comprise a transparent polymer. 23.-26. (canceled)
27. The device for the dispensing of liquids according to claim 14, wherein the stem has a circular cross-section.
28. The device for the dispensing of liquids according to claim 14, wherein the first bulb and the second bulb have circular cross-sections.
29. The device for the dispensing of liquids according to claim 14, wherein the first bulb has a length substantially equal to the length of the second bulb.
30. The device for the dispensing of liquids according to claim 14, wherein the length of the stem is greater than the length of the first bulb or the second bulb. 31.-36. (canceled)
37. The device for the dispensing of liquids according to claim 14, wherein the device has a total length of at least 1 cm and not more than 10 cm.
38. The device for the dispensing of liquids according to claim 14, wherein the device is configured to discharge an amount of fluid that ranges from 0.5 ml to 5 ml. 39.-57. (canceled)
58. A device for dispensing fluids, the device comprising: a compressible first hollow bulb; a second hollow bulb having a bulb tip for dispensing fluid; and a groove along the surface of the second hollow bulb, the groove extending from the bulb tip.
59. The device of claim 58, wherein the groove is curved.
60. The device of claim 58, wherein the second hollow bulb further comprises an axis and the curve is at least partially helical around the axis.
61. (canceled)
62. A device for dispensing fluids, the device comprising: a compressible first hollow bulb; a second hollow bulb; a gap between the first hollow bulb and the second hollow bulb; and a stem coupling the first hollow bulb and the second hollow bulb, the stem providing fluid flow between the first hollow bulb and the second hollow bulb; wherein the stem allows for bending of the first and second bulbs relative to one another such that the first hollow bulb is substantially vertical and the second hollow bulb is substantially horizontal..
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(458) Conclusiones del Consejo Europeo, EUCO 104/2/13, p. 4.
(459) 10025/13.
(460) European Council Conclusions, EUCO 104/2/13, p. 4.
(461) Véase el documento 11505/1/13.
(462) DO L 306 de 23.11.2011, p. 12.
(463) Véase el documento 11336/13.
(464) See 11505/1/13.
(465) OJ L 306, 23.11.2011, p. 12.
(466) See 11336/13.
(467) COM(2011) 851.
(468) COM(2011) 851.
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(513) COM(2011) 681.
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(515) COM(2011) 681.
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(518) COM(2013) 236 of 26.4.13.
(519) COM(2013) 236 of 26.4.13.
(520) Id-Direttiva 95/46/KE tal-Parlament Ewropew u tal-Kunsill tal-24 ta' Ottubru 1995 dwar il-protezzjoni tal-individwi fir-rigward tal-ipproċessar ta' data personali u dwar il-moviment liberu ta' dik id-data, ĠU L 281, 23.11.1995, p. 31.
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(522) COM (2012) 11.
(523) Directive 95/46/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 24 October 1995 on the protection of individuals with regard to the processing of personal data and on the free movement of such data, OJ L 281, 23.11.1995, p. 31.
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(525) COM(2012) 11.
(526) http://www.europarl.europa.eu/plenary/it/parliamentary-questions.html
(527) http://www.europarl.europa.eu/plenary/en/parliamentary-questions.html
(528) http://www.consilium.europa.eu/uedocs/cms_data/docs/pressdata/en/jha/136985.pdf
(529) http://www.consilium.europa.eu/uedocs/cms_data/docs/pressdata/en/cfsp/136985.pdf
(530) http://europa.eu/rapid/press-release_MEMO-12-198_en.htm
(531) http://www2.ohchr.org/english/bodies/hrcouncil/docs/13session/A.HRC.RES.13.16_AEV.pdf
(532) http://www2.ohchr.org/english/bodies/hrcouncil/docs/16session/A.HRC.RES.16.18_en.pdf
(533) Non-governmental organisations.
(534) http://europa.eu/rapid/press-release_MEMO-12-198_en.htm
(535) http://www2.ohchr.org/english/bodies/hrcouncil/docs/13session/A.HRC.RES.13.16_AEV.pdf
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(537) COM(2012) 669.
(538) http://euskillspanorama.ec.europa.eu
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(540) COM(2012) 669.
(541) http://euskillspanorama.ec.europa.eu.
(542) http://ec.europa.eu/social/main.jsp?catId=1036.
(543) http://www.europarl.europa.eu/plenary/en/parliamentary-questions.html
(544) http://www.europarl.europa.eu/plenary/en/parliamentary-questions.html
(545) http://www.eurosion.org/index.html
(546) http://www.eurosion.org/index.html
(547) Directiva 2007/36/CE del Parlamento Europeo y del Consejo, de 11 de julio de 2007, sobre el ejercicio de determinados derechos de los accionistas de sociedades cotizadas (14.7.2007).
(548) http://www.europarl.europa.eu/plenary/es/parliamentary-questions.html
(549) Directive 2007/36/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 11 July 2007 on the exercise of certain rights of shareholders in listed companies (14.7.2007).
(550) http://www.europarl.europa.eu/plenary/en/parliamentary-questions.html
(551) Données de mai 2013 de la direction générale de l'énergie de la Commission européenne:
http://ec.europa.eu/energy/observatory/oil/doc/prices/map/2013_05_13_taxation_oil_prices.pdf
(552) European Commission's DG Energy data from May 2013: http://ec.europa.eu/energy/observatory/oil/doc/prices/map/2013_05_13_taxation_oil_prices.pdf
(553) Directive 2006/7, JO L 64 du 4.3.2006.
(554) Directive 91/271/CEE (JO L 135 du 30.5.1991).
(555) Voir, par exemple, le document de travail des services de la Commission SWD (2012) 393 final, «Bilan de qualité de la politique de l'UE en ce qui concerne l'eau douce».
(556) Directive 2006/7, OJ L 64/37, 4.3.2006.
(557) Directive 91/271, OJ L 135, 30.5.1991.
(558) See, for instance, the Commission Staff Working Paper SWD(2012) 393 final, ‘The Fitness Check of EU Freshwater Policy’.
(559) Règlement (UE) n° 513/2013 de la Commission du 4 juin 2013 instituant un droit antidumping provisoire sur les importations de modules photovoltaïques en silicium cristallin et leurs composants essentiels (cellules et wafers) originaires ou en provenance de la République populaire de Chine et modifiant le règlement (UE) n° 182/2013 soumettant à enregistrement ces importations originaires ou en provenance de la République populaire de Chine, JO L 152 du 5.6.2013.
(560) Commission Regulation (EU) No 513/2013 of 4 June 2013 imposing a provisional anti-dumping duty on imports of crystalline silicon photovoltaic modules and key components (i.e. cells and wafers) originating in or consigned from the People’s Republic of China and amending Regulation (EU) No 182/2013 making these imports originating in or consigned from the People’s Republic of China subject to registration, OJ L 152, 5.6.2013.
(561) JOIN(2013)1 def.
(562) COM(2013)48 def.
(563) JOIN(2013) 1 final.
(564) COM(2013) 48 final.
(565) http://www.europarl.europa.eu/plenary/it/parliamentary-questions.html
(566) http://register.consilium.europa.eu/pdf/en/13/st09/st09963.en13.pdf — adottato dal Consiglio GAI il 6-7 giugno 2013, non ancora pubblicato nella GU.
(567) Decisione n. 1150/2007/CE del Parlamento europeo e del Consiglio, del 25 settembre 2007 , che istituisce per il periodo 2007-2013 il programma specifico Prevenzione e informazione in materia di droga nell'ambito del programma generale Diritti fondamentali e giustizia. GU L 257 del 3.10.2007, pag. 23-29.
(568) Decisione n. 1350/2007/CE del Parlamento europeo e del Consiglio, del 23 ottobre 2007, che istituisce un secondo programma d'azione comunitaria in materia di salute (2008-2013), GU L 301 del 20.11.2007.
(569) http://www.europarl.europa.eu/plenary/en/parliamentary-questions.html
(570) http://register.consilium.europa.eu/pdf/en/13/st09/st09963.en13.pdf — adopted by the JHA Council on 6-7 June 2013, not published in the OJ yet.
(571) Decision No 1150/2007/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 25 September 2007 establishing for the period 2007-2013 the Specific Programme Drug prevention and information as part of the General Programme Fundamental Rights and Justice. OJ L 257, 3.10.2007, p. 23‐29.
(572) Decision No 1350/2007/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 23 October 2007 establishing a second programme of Community action in the field of health (2008-2013), OJ L 301, 20.11.2007.
(573) ΕΕ C 319 της 27.12.2006.
(574) ΕΕ L 358 της 16.12.2006.
(575) ΕΕ L 337 της 21.12.2007.
(576) OJ C 319, 27.12.2006.
(577) OJ L 358, 16.12, 2006.
(578) OJ L 337, 21.12.2007.
(579) JO L 268 du 18.10.2003.
(580) JO L 157 du 8.6.2013.
(581) OJ L 268, 18.10.2003.
(582) OJ L 157, 8.06.2013.
(583) COM(2011) 650 final.
(584) COM(2011) 665 final.
(585) COM(2011) 650 final.
(586) COM(2011) 665 final.
(587) COM(2010)352 final de 30.6.2010.
(588) 2010/2206(INI).
(589) http://ec.europa.eu/enterprise/sectors/tourism/conferences/previous-etf/index_en.htm
(590) Como Comisario responsable de industria, emprendimiento y turismo, también me he dirigido con carácter periódico a los diputados al Parlamento Europeo con una carta y un resumen anual sobre los logros del año precedente en las áreas políticas de las que soy responsable.
(591) COM(2010)352 final of 30.06.2010.
(592) 2010/2206(INI.
(593) http://ec.europa.eu/enterprise/sectors/tourism/conferences/previous-etf/index_en.htm
(594) As Commissioner responsible for industry, entrepreneurship and tourism, I have also regularly addressed the members of the European Parliament with an annual letter and overview on the previous year’s achievements in the policy areas under my responsibility.
(595) Documento 10025/13.
(596) Documento EUCO104/2/13 REV 2.
(597) Documento 6936/13.
(598) Documento EUCO 23/13.
(599) 10025/13.
(600) EUCO 104/2/13, p. 4.
(601) 6936/13.
(602) EUCO 23/13.
(603) Previsiones de primavera 2013 de la Comisión: http://ec.europa.eu/economy_finance/eu/forecasts/2013_spring/es_en.pdf
(604) Commission's Spring Forecast 2013: http://ec.europa.eu/economy_finance/eu/forecasts/2013_spring/es_en.pdf.
(605) http://www.ft.dk/samling/20121/almdel/flf/spm/133/svar/1025499/1211592/index.htm
(606) http://www.ft.dk/samling/20121/almdel/flf/spm/133/svar/1025499/1211592/index.htm
(607) EUT L 316 af 2.12.2009.
(608) http://www.ft.dk/samling/20121/almdel/flf/spm/133/svar/1025499/1211592/index.htm
(609) http://www.ft.dk/samling/20121/almdel/flf/spm/133/svar/1025499/1211592/index.htm
(610) OJ L 316, 2.12.2009.
(611) Έγγραφο εργασίας των υπηρεσιών της Επιτροπής για την αντιμετώπιση του προβλήματος των αστέγων στην Ευρωπαϊκή Ένωση SWD (2013)42 τελικό.
(612) Commission Staff Working Document on Confronting Homelessness in the European Union SWD (2013)42 final.
(613) Με εξαίρεση τα ποσά που έχουν απορριφθεί πλήρως.
(614) http://www.europarl.europa.eu/plenary/en/parliamentary-questions.html
(615) Excluding fully rejected amounts.
(616) http://www.europarl.europa.eu/plenary/en/parliamentary-questions.html
(617) Commission Implementing Decision of 18.4.2013 on annual reports on non-discriminatory inspections carried out pursuant to Council Regulation (EC) No 1/2005 on the protection of animals during transport and related operations and amending Directives 64/432/EEC and 93/119/EC and Regulation (EC) No 1255/97.
(618) Commission Implementing Decision of 18 April 2013 on annual reports on non-discriminatory inspections carried out pursuant to Council Regulation (EC) No 1/2005 on the protection of animals during transport, 2013/188/EU. OJ L 111, 23.4.2013, p. 107.
(619) Council Regulation (EC) No 1/2005 on the protection of animals during transport and related operations. OJ L 3, 5.1.2005.
(620) Recitals (4) and (5) of Decision 2013/188/EU.
(621) Directive 2012/27/UE du Parlement européen et du Conseil du 25 octobre 2012 relative à l'efficacité énergétique, modifiant les directives 2009/125/CE et 2010/30/UE et abrogeant les directives 2004/8/CE et 2006/32/CE, JO L n° 315, p. 1.
(622) Directive 2010/31/UE du Parlement européen et du Conseil du 19 mai 2010 sur la performance énergétique des bâtiments (refonte), JO L 153 du 18.6.2010, p. 13.
(623) Directive 2010/30/UE du Parlement européen et du Conseil du 19 mai 2010 concernant l'indication, par voie d'étiquetage et d'informations uniformes relatives aux produits, de la consommation en énergie et en autres ressources des produits liés à l'énergie (refonte), JO L 153 du 18.6.2010, p. 1.
(624) Directive 2010/30/UE du Parlement européen et du Conseil du 19 mai 2010 concernant l'indication, par voie d'étiquetage et d'informations uniformes relatives aux produits, de la consommation en énergie et en autres ressources des produits liés à l'énergie (refonte), JO L 153 du 18.6.2010, p. 1.
(625) Directive 2012/27/EU of the European Parliament and of the Council of 25 October 2012 on energy efficiency, amending Directives 2009/125/EC and 2010/30/EU and repealing Directives 2004/8/EC and 2006/32/EC — OJ L 351, p. 1.
(626) Directive 2010/31/EU of the European Parliament and of the Council of 19 May 2010 on the energy performance of buildings (recast) — OJ L 153, 18.6.2010 , p. 13.
(627) Directive 2010/30/EU of the European Parliament and of the Council of 19 May 2010 on the indication by labelling and standard product information of the consumption of energy and other resources by energy-related products (recast) — OJ L 153, 18.6.2010, p. 1.
(628) Directive 2010/30/EU of the European Parliament and of the Council of 19 May 2010 on the indication by labelling and standard product information of the consumption of energy and other resources by energy-related products (recast) — OJ L 153, 18.6.2010, p. 1.
(629) SWD(2012)452 def., pagg. 15-17.
(630) SWD(2012) 452 final, pp. 15-17.
(631) Direttiva 2006/54/CE del 5 luglio 2006 riguardante l'attuazione del principio delle pari opportunità e della parità di trattamento fra uomini e donne in materia di occupazione e impiego (rifusione) (GU L 204 del 26 luglio 2006, pag. 23).
(632) Articolo 27, in combinato disposto con l'articolo 25 del codice italiano sulla parità di trattamento (decreto legislativo n. 198 dell'11 aprile 2006).
(633) Directive 2006/54/EC of 5 July 2006 on the implementation of the principle of equal opportunities and equal treatment of men and women in matters of employment and occupation (recast) (OJ L 204 of 26 July 2006, p. 23).
(634) Article 27 in conjunction with Article 25 of the Italian Equal treatment code (Legislative Decree of 11 April 2006 n.198).
(635) http://ec.europa.eu/contracts_grants/index_it.htm
(636) http://ec.europa.eu/environment/life/index.htm
(637) http://ec.europa.eu/environment/ngos/index_en.htm
(638) http://ec.europa.eu/contracts_grants/index_en.htm
(639) http://ec.europa.eu/environment/life/index.htm
(640) http://ec.europa.eu/environment/ngos/index_en.htm
(641) Regulamento (EU) n.° 605/2013 do Parlamento Europeu e do Conselho, de 12 de junho de 2013 , que altera o Regulamento (CE) n.° 1185/2003 do Conselho relativo à remoção das barbatanas de tubarões a bordo dos navios (JO L 181 de 29.6.2013, p. 1).
(642) OJ 29.6.2013 L181/1 REGULATION (EU) No 605/2013 OF THE EUROPEAN PARLIAMENT AND OF THE COUNCIL of 12 June 2013 amending Council Regulation (EC) No 1185/2003 on the removal of fins of sharks on board vessels.
(643) EYVL L 332, 28.12.2000.
(644) OJ L 332, 28.12.2000.
(645) http://corporateeurope.org/news/olafs-leaked-dalligate-report-underlines-need-end-tobacco-lobbyist-role-eu-ethics-adviser
Citaat: „Mr. Petite is the former head of the Commission's Legal Service who went through the revolving door to work for Clifford Chance, a lobbying-law-firm with corporate clients such as tobacco giant Phillip Morris. OLAF's investigation report on the case around ex-Commissioner Dalli, leaked last week, has provided further evidence on Petite's work for the tobacco industry. The report shows that Petite had a central role in the events that led to Dalli's forced resignation (under yet to be clarified circumstances, following bribery accusations) in mid-October 2012. Petite assisted tobacco company Swedish Match in submitting the complaint that triggered the OLAF investigation into the Dalli case, using his access to the Commission's Secretary-General Catherine Day, a former colleague at the European Commission. It had previously been revealed that Mr Petite held meetings with his former colleagues in the Legal Service to advise on the EU's Tobacco Products Directive, whilst having tobacco company Phillip Morris International as a client. Petite's work for Swedish Match (and Phillip Morris) creates serious conflicts of interest that make his membership of the ad hoc ethical committee politically untenable.”.
(646) http://corporateeurope.org/news/olafs-leaked-dalligate-report-underlines-need-end-tobacco-lobbyist-role-eu-ethics-adviser
Quote: ‘Mr Petite is the former head of the Commission's Legal Service who went through the revolving door to work for Clifford Chance, a lobbying-law-firm with corporate clients such as tobacco giant Phillip Morris. OLAF's investigation report on the case around ex-Commissioner Dalli, leaked last week, has provided further evidence on Petite's work for the tobacco industry. The report shows that Petite had a central role in the events that led to Dalli's forced resignation (under yet to be clarified circumstances, following bribery accusations) in mid-October 2012. Petite assisted tobacco company Swedish Match in submitting the complaint that triggered the OLAF investigation into the Dalli case, using his access to the Commission's Secretary-General Catherine Day, a former colleague at the European Commission. It had previously been revealed that Mr Petite held meetings with his former colleagues in the Legal Service to advise on the EU's Tobacco Products Directive, whilst having tobacco company Phillip Morris International as a client. Petite's work for Swedish Match (and Phillip Morris) creates serious conflicts of interest that make his membership of the ad hoc ethical committee politically untenable.’.
(647) http://eur-lex.europa.eu/LexUriServ/LexUriServ.do?uri=OJ:L:2013:140:0011:0023:EN:PDF
(648) http://eur-lex.europa.eu/LexUriServ/LexUriServ.do?uri=OJ:L:2013:140:0011:0023:EN:PDF
(649) Fuente UNESA «Informe Eléctrico y Memoria Eléctrica 2011». UNESA es la asociación de las mayores compañías eléctricas españolas: Endesa, Iberdrola, Gas Natural-Fenosa, HC Energía y E.On España.
(650) Fuente UNESA.
(651) Source UNESA ‘Informe Eléctrico y Memoria Eléctrica 2011’. UNESA is the association of the largest electricity companies in Spain: Endesa, Iberdrola, Gas Natural-Fenosa, HC Energia, E.On Espana.
(652) Source UNESA.
(653) «Calypso» se puso en marcha como una acción preparatoria de tres años en 2009. Desde 2012, las acciones relativas a Calypso se cofinancian con recursos adecuados en el contexto del Programa para la Iniciativa Empresarial y la Innovación. Puede obtenerse más información sobre la iniciativa Calypso en: http://ec.europa.eu/enterprise/sectors/tourism/calypso/index_es.htm
(654) http://ec.europa.eu/enterprise/sectors/tourism/contracts-grants/calls-for-proposals/index_es.htm
(655) Puede obtenerse más información sobre la plataforma e-Calypso en: http://www.ecalypso.eu/steep/public/index.jsf
(656) Para más información: http://ec.europa.eu/enterprise/sectors/tourism/accessibility/index_es.htm
(657) ‘Calypso’ was launched as a three-year preparatory action in 2009. Since 2012, Calypso-related actions are co-financed with appropriate resources under the Entrepreneurship and Innovation Programme (EIP). For more information on the CALYPSO initiative: http://ec.europa.eu/enterprise/sectors/tourism/calypso/index_en.htm
(658) http://ec.europa.eu/enterprise/sectors/tourism/contracts-grants/calls-for-proposals/index_en.htm
(659) For more information on the e-Calypso platform: http://www.ecalypso.eu/steep/public/index.jsf.
(660) For more information: http://ec.europa.eu/enterprise/sectors/tourism/accessibility/index_en.htm
(661) 10025/13.
(662) EUCO 104/2/13, p. 4.
(663) 15488/09.
(664) DO C 155 de 25.5.2011, p. 10.
(665) 17816/11, apartados 22 y 25.
(666) EUCO 13/1/10 REV 1.
(667) 10025/13.
(668) EUCO 104/2/13, p. 4.
(669) 15488/09.
(670) OJ C 155 , 25.5.2011, p. 10.
(671) 17816/11, paragraphs 22 and 25.
(672) EUCO 13/1/10 REV 1.
(673) En 2011, la tasa de pobreza era del 27,3 % para las mujeres, frente al 26,6 % para los hombres, aunque la diferencia se va reduciendo debido al aumento de las tasas de pobreza de estos últimos.
(674) El tipo impositivo efectivo medio aplicado a las personas que constituyen la segunda fuente de ingresos familiares es elevado cuando se incorporan al mercado laboral con el mismo nivel de ingresos: sus ingresos se gravan con la misma tasa marginal que la que se aplica a la primera fuente de ingresos cuando los cónyuges declaran conjuntamente, mientras que la persona que declara los ingresos principales pierde las deducciones por cónyuge dependiente cuando la declaración es individual.
(675) COM(2013) 359 finał de 29.5.2013.
(676) Paquete de Inversión Social http://ec.europa.eu/social/main.jsp?catId=1044&langId=en
(677) Poverty rates for women stood at 27.3% in 2011, as compared to the 26.6% for men, although the gap is reducing due to the higher increases in poverty rates for men.
(678) The average effective tax rate for second earners is high when entering the labour market at the same income level: the second earner's income is taxed at the same marginal rate as that of the main earner when partners file jointly, whereas the main earner loses the deduction for dependent spouse if partners file individually.
(679) COM(2013) 359 finał, from 29.5.2013.
(680) Social Investment Package http://ec.europa.eu/social/main.jsp?catId=1044&langId=en
(681) Entre los problemas se cuentan los siguientes: superpoblación carcelaria crítica; falta de acceso a servicios básicos, como la asistencia sanitaria; administración deficiente de las cárceles y corrupción en las mismas; uso y abuso del aislamiento y la tortura y otras formas de malos tratos; falta de programas de rehabilitación y reinserción social.
(682) En particular, en lo que respecta a la UE, Eslovenia.
(683) Celebrada en Bruselas el 17 de junio de 2013.
(684) Problems include: critical overcrowding; lack of access to basic services, such as healthcare; poor administration of the jails and corruption within them; use and abuse of isolation and other torture and cruel treatment modalities; lack of rehabilitation and re-socialisation programmes.
(685) Including, from the EU side, Slovenia.
(686) Held in Brussels on 17 June 2013.
(687) Vor allem im Bereich der schweren Wirtschaftskriminalität, Korruption, Erpressung und Schutzgelderpressung insbesondere durch eurasische kriminelle Organisationen.
(688) Schlussfolgerungen des Rates „Auswärtige Angelegenheiten“: Die Europäische Union bekundet ihre Entschlossenheit, dafür zu sorgen, dass im Einklang mit dem Völkerrecht in allen Abkommen zwischen dem Staat Israel und der Europäischen Union unmissverständlich und ausdrücklich erklärt wird, dass sie nicht für die von Israel 1967 besetzten Gebiete, namentlich die Golanhöhen, das Westjordanland einschließlich Ostjerusalems und den Gazastreifen, gelten.
(689) Especially in the area of serious economic crime, corruption, racketeering and extortion, in particular from Eurasian organised crime groups.
(690) Foreign Affairs Council (FAC) conclusions: The European Union expresses its commitment to ensure that — in line with international law — all agreements between the State of Israel and the European Union must unequivocally and explicitly indicate their inapplicability to the territories occupied by Israel in 1967, namely the Golan Heights, the West Bank including East Jerusalem, and the Gaza Strip.
(691) Propuesta de Reglamento del Parlamento Europeo y del Consejo que modifica el Reglamento (CE) n° 261/2004, por el que se establecen normas comunes sobre compensación y asistencia a los pasajeros aéreos en caso de denegación de embarque y de cancelación o gran retraso de los vuelos, y el Reglamento (CE) n° 2027/97, relativo a la responsabilidad de las compañías aéreas respecto al transporte aéreo de los pasajeros y su equipaje [COM/2013/0130 final — 2013/0072(COD)].
(692) http://ec.europa.eu/transport/themes/passengers/air/doc/prm/2012-06-11-swd-2012-171_en.pdf
(693) Véase también en el mismo contexto la respuesta contenida en la Pregunta 5, letra a), último párrafo, de las directrices.
(694) Proposal for a regulation of the European Parliament and of the Council amending Regulation (EC) No 261/2004 establishing common rules on compensation and assistance to passengers in the event of denied boarding and of cancellation or long delay of flights and Regulation (EC) No 2027/97 on air carrier liability in respect of the carriage of passengers and their baggage by air; COM/2013/0130 final — 2013/0072 (COD).
(695) http://ec.europa.eu/transport/themes/passengers/air/doc/prm/2012-06-11-swd-2012-171_en.pdf
(696) See also in the same context the answer under Q5(a) last subparagraph of the Guidelines.
(697) http://eur-lex.europa.eu/LexUriServ/LexUriServ.do?uri=OJ:L:2013:139:0012:0026:MT:PDF.
(698) http://eur-lex.europa.eu/LexUriServ/LexUriServ.do?uri=OJ:L:2013:139:0012:0026:EN:PDF.
(699) Pereżempju, l-Ungerija, l-Italja, il-Litwanja, il-Polonja, ir-Rumanija u s-Slovakkja.
(700) 80 % għar-reġjuni aktar żviluppati, 50 % għal reġjuni anqas żviluppati għal dawn it-temi ta’ prijorità: ir-riċerka u l-innovazzjoni, l-ICT, il-kompetittività tal-SMEs u l-effiċjenza enerġetika.
(701) Ara l-istudju “Lessons from a Decade of Innovation Policy, What can be learnt from the INNO Policy TrendChart and the Innovation Union Scoreboard”, ikkummissjonat mill-Kummissjoni. Dan l-istudju huwa disponibbli fuq is-sit elettroniku: http://ec.europa.eu/enterprise/policies/innovation/facts-figures-analysis/trendchart/index_en.htm
(702) Eg. Hungary, Italy, Lithuania, Poland, Romania and Slovakia.
(703) 80% for more developed regions, 50% for less developed regions for the following priority themes: research and innovation, ICT, SME competitiveness and energy efficiency.
(704) See the study Lessons from a Decade of Innovation Policy, What can be learnt from the INNO Policy TrendChart and The Innovation Union Scoreboard ordered by the Commission. It is available under the following link: http://ec.europa.eu/enterprise/policies/innovation/facts-figures-analysis/trendchart/index_en.htm
(705) GU L 199 del 30.7.1999, pag. 59.
(706) http://ec.europa.eu/health/scientific_committees/index_en.htm
(707) OJ L 199/59, 30 July 1999.
(708) http://ec.europa.eu/health/scientific_committees/index_en.htm
(709) GU L 194 del 25.7.2009.
(710) http://ec.europa.eu/food/animal/animalproducts/index_it.htm (commercio e importazione di prodotti animali).
http://ec.europa.eu/food/food/controls/increased_checks/index_en.htm (maggiori controlli sulle importazioni di alimenti di origine non animale).
(711) OJ L 194, 25.7.2009.
(712) http://ec.europa.eu/food/animal/animalproducts/index_en.htm (trade and imports of products of animal origin).
http://ec.europa.eu/food/food/controls/increased_checks/index_en.htm (increased controls on import of food of non-animal origin).
(713) http://www.tilburguniversity.edu/education/summerschool/courses/democracy-cosmopolitanism/.
(714) http://www.tilburguniversity.edu/education/summerschool/courses/democracy-cosmopolitanism/.
(715) http://ec.europa.eu/health/tobacco/eurobarometers/index_en.htm
(716) http://ec.europa.eu/health/tobacco/docs/eurobaro_attitudes_towards_tobacco_2012_en.pdf
(717) http://www.europarl.europa.eu/plenary/en/parliamentary-questions.html
(718) http://ec.europa.eu/health/tobacco/eurobarometers/index_en.htm
(719) http://ec.europa.eu/health/tobacco/docs/eurobaro_attitudes_towards_tobacco_2012_en.pdf
(720) http://www.europarl.europa.eu/plenary/en/parliamentary-questions.html
(721) Propuesta modificada de Reglamento sobre las operaciones con información privilegiada y la manipulación del mercado (abuso de mercado), COM(2012) 421 final.
(722) Propuesta modificada de Directiva sobre las sanciones penales aplicables a las operaciones con información privilegiada, COM(2012) 420 final.
(723) http://ec.europa.eu/internal_market/consultations/2012/benchmarks_en.htm
(724) http://www.esma.europa.eu/system/files/2013-13.pdf
(725) http://www.esma.europa.eu/news/Press-release%E2 %80 %94ESMA-and-EBA-publish-final-principles-benchmarks?t=326&o=home
(726) Amended proposal for a regulation on insider dealing and market manipulation, COM(2012) 421 final.
(727) Amended proposal for a directive on criminal sanctions for insider dealing and market manipulation, COM(2012) 654 final.
(728) http://ec.europa.eu/internal_market/consultations/2012/benchmarks_en.htm
(729) http://www.esma.europa.eu/system/files/2013-13.pdf
(730) http://www.esma.europa.eu/news/Press-release%E2%80%94ESMA-and-EBA-publish-final-principles-benchmarks?t=326&o=home
(731) KOM(2013)216 Mitteilung „Eine EU-Strategie zur Anpassung an den Klimawandel“.
(732) Richtlinie 2007/60/EG, ABl. L 288 vom 6.11.2007, S. 27.
(733) KOM(2009)82 Mitteilung: „Ein Gemeinschaftskonzept zur Verhütung von Naturkatastrophen und von Menschen verursachten Katastrophen“.
(734) KOM(2011)934 Vorschlag für einen Beschluss über ein Katastrophenschutzverfahren der Union (noch im Verhandlungsstadium) zur Ersetzung der Entscheidungen 2007/779/EG, Euratom des Rates und 2007/162/EG, Euratom des Rates..
(735) COM(2013) 216 Communication ‘An EU Strategy on adaptation to climate change’.
(736) Directive 2007/60/EC, OJ L 288, 6.11.2007, p.27.
(737) COM(2009)0082 Communication ‘A Community approach on the prevention of natural and man-made disasters’.
(738) COM(2011)0934 Proposal for a decision on a Union Civil Protection Mechanism (under negotiations) to replace Council Decision No 779/2007 and Council Decision 2007/162.
(739) http://www.ft.com/intl/cms/s/0/f8c32b06-c2de-11e2-9bcb-00144feab7de.html#axzz2VLI9hxdE.
(740) Die door de Commissie zelf wordt genoemd in haar antwoord op mijn vraag E-003924/2013.
(741) http://www.ft.com/intl/cms/s/0/f8c32b06-c2de-11e2-9bcb-00144feab7de.html#axzz2VLI9hxdE.
(742) Mentioned by the Commission itself in its answer to my Question E-003924/2013.
(743) http://www.europarl.europa.eu/plenary/it/parliamentary-questions.html?tabType=wq#sidesForm.
(744) http://www.europarl.europa.eu/plenary/en/parliamentary-questions.html?tabType=wq#sidesForm.
(745) http://ec.europa.eu/esf/main.jsp?catId=62&langId=es
(746) http://ec.europa.eu/esf/main.jsp?catId=62&langId=en
(747) Aplicación del artículo 3, apartado 1, y del artículo 12, apartado 1, del Reglamento (CE) n° 1681/94 de la Comisión, modificado por el Reglamento (CE) n° 2035/2005 de la Comisión.
(748) Reglamento (CE) n° 1290/2005 del Consejo, sobre la financiación de la política agrícola común (DO L 209 de 11.8.2005).
(749) Application of arts. 3(1) and 12(1) of Commission Regulation (EC) No 1681/94 as amended by Commission Regulation (EC) No 2035/2005.
(750) Council Regulation (EC)No 1290/2005 on the financing of the common agricultural policy., OJ L 209, 11.8.2005.
(751) Verordnung (EG) Nr. 810/2009 des Europäischen Parlaments und des Rats vom 13. Juli 2009 über einen Visakodex der Gemeinschaft (Visakodex) (ABl. L 243 vom 15.9.2009, S. 1).
(752) Regulation (EC) 810/2009 of the European Parliament and the Council establishing a Community Code on Visas (the Visa Code). OJ L 243, 15.9.2009, p 1.
(753) ABl. L 26 vom 28.1.2012.
(754) ABl. L 206 vom 22.7.1992.
(755) OJ L 26, 28.1.2012,.
(756) OJ L 206, 22.7.1992.
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Digital communication link
ABSTRACT
A serial interface circuit electrically connected to a controller to control an electric motor. The interface circuit includes a controller circuit and a motor circuit. The controller circuit includes a transmitter and a receiver circuit, and the motor circuit includes a transmitter circuit and a receiver circuit. The interface interrogates the motor to acquire status and diagnostic information by receiving commands from the controller, adjusts a voltage level to a desired level, outputs the voltage signal to command and control the motor, and receives a voltage response from the motor.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
This invention relates generally to electrical motors, and more particularly to a digital communications link to control and interrogate a variable speed motor used in air moving systems.
Electronically commutated motors (ECMs) are used in a wide variety of applications because they are more efficient than known standard induction motors. ECMs include the efficiency and speed control advantages of a DC motor and minimize the disadvantages of DC motors, e.g., carbon brush wear, short life span, and noise. In Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning (HVAC) systems, as well as, known commercial air distributions systems, ECMs automatically adjust blower speed to meet a wide range of airflow requirements. Known ECMs use microprocessor technology to control fan speed, torque, air flow, and energy consumption.
Conventional blower motors are designed to operate at one speed, however, variable speed ECMs can operate at a wide range of speeds. Variable speed in an ECM is important because blowers need to adjust speed to deliver the airflow needed by the HVAC system.
Known ECMs have various modes of operation, and external control circuits determine an operating point of the ECM. In one mode of operation, Pulse Width Modulation (PWM) signals are transmitted to the electrical interface to control motor speed, motor torque and airflow produced by the motor. The operating point of the ECM is determined by an internal microprocessor control circuit that directly responds to a status of various control input lines.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
Methods and apparatus for interfacing an electronically commutated motor to an HVAC system controller are described. In one aspect of the invention, the method includes an interface circuit coupled to the system controller and the electric motor and includes the steps of receiving commands from the controller, adjusting a voltage to a desired level, outputting the voltage signal through a motor control circuit to control the electric motor, receiving a voltage from the electric motor, and transmitting the received voltage to the controller.
In another aspect of the invention, an HVAC system includes an electronically commutated motor electrically coupled to the interface circuit, which is electrically connected to the system controller. The HVAC system receives commands from the controller, adjusts a voltage to a desired level, outputs the voltage signal through a motor control circuit to control the electric motor, receives a voltage from the electric motor through the motor control circuit, and transmits the received voltage to the controller.
In another aspect of the invention, the interface circuit is electrically connected to the HVAC controller and the electronically commutated motor. The interface circuit includes a controller circuit and a motor control circuit. The controller circuit includes a transmitter circuit and a receiver circuit, and the controller circuit interfaces with the HVAC controller. The motor control circuit includes a transmitter circuit having a first optocoupler and a receiver circuit having a second optocoupler. The motor control circuit interfaces with the electronically commutated motor. After receiving commands from the HVAC controller, the interface circuit adjusts a level of the voltage signal to a desired level, outputs an electrical signal through the first optocoupler, and receives an electrical response from the electronically commutated motor through the second optocoupler. The interface circuit in addition to controlling the electronically commutated motor, interrogates the electronically commutated motor to acquire status and diagnostic information.
As a result, a cost-effective and reliable electrical interface circuit, including a motor circuit and a receiver circuit, to electrically couple a controller to an electronically commutated motor is provided.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
FIG. 1 is an exemplary embodiment of a system block diagram.
FIG. 2 is an exemplary embodiment of a schematic diagram of a controller interface circuit.
FIG. 3 is an exemplary embodiment of a schematic diagram of a motor control circuit.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
FIG. 1 is an exemplary system block diagram 10 of an electrical interface circuit 12 connected to a HVAC system 14 and a controller 16, which is connected to a thermostat 18. HVAC system 14 includes an electronically commutated motor 20 (ECM) including a microcontroller 22. In one embodiment, ECM 20 is a variable speed ECM. Interface circuit 12 includes a controller interface circuit 24 and a motor control interface circuit 26. Motor control interface circuit 26 is connected to microcontroller 22 within ECM 20. HVAC system 14 communicates with ECM 20 through controller interface circuit 24 via a serial communications link 28, e.g., a shielded cable. In another embodiment, controller interface circuit 24 communicates with motor control interface circuit 26 via a wireless digital communications link (not shown). In yet another embodiment, control interface circuit 24 communicates with motor control interface circuit 26 using wireless technology, e.g., infrared and RF technology (not shown). Interface circuit 12 receives information from controller 16 as to a specific torque, speed, or airflow ECM 20 is to be set based on a desired temperature from thermostat 18. In one embodiment, interface circuit 12 is a digital interface.
FIG. 2 is an exemplary embodiment of a schematic diagram for controller interface circuit 24. Controller interface circuit 24 includes a transmit circuit 30 and a receive circuit 32. Controller transmit circuit 30 includes a Tx terminal 34 connected to a resistor 36 that is connected to a node 38. Node 38 is connected to a base 40 of transistor 42. Node 38 is also connected to a resistor 44 that is connected to an emitter 46 of transistor 42. A power supply 47 is connected to emitter 46 of transistor 42. A collector 48 of transistor 42 is connected to a TxOut terminal 50.
Controller receive circuit 32 includes a power terminal 52 and a RxIN terminal 54. RxIN terminal 54 is connected to a resistor 56 that is connected to a node 58. Resistor 60 is connected between node 58 and a node 62. Node 62 is connected to power terminal 52 and power supply 47. Node 62 is connected to an emitter 64 of transistor 66 and node 58 is connected a base 68 of transistor 66. A collector 70 of transistor 66 is connected to a node 72 that is connected to a resistor 74 and a Rx terminal 76. Resistor 74 is tied to a node 78 that is tied to ground, a ground terminal 80, and a common terminal 82.
Of course, controller interface circuit 24 is not limited to practice in HVAC system 10 and can be utilized in connection with many other types and variations of controllers, besides controller 16 (shown in FIG. 1).
FIG. 3 is an exemplary embodiment of a schematic diagram for motor control interface circuit 26. Motor control interface circuit 26 includes a receive circuit 90 and a transmit circuit 92. Motor receive circuit 90 includes a terminal RxIN 94 connected to a resistor 96. Resistor 96 is connected to a node 98. Resistor 100 is connected between node 98 and a node 102. Node 102 is connected to motor transmit circuit 92 at node 104. Nodes 98 and 102 are connected to an optocoupler 106. Optocoupler 106 is connected to a node 108, which is connected to a resistor 110 and microcontroller 22. Resistor 110 is connected to a power supply 111.
Motor transmit circuit 92 includes a power terminal VCC 112, a transmit terminal TxIN 114, and a ground terminal COM 116. A zener diode 118 is connected between TxIN terminal 114 and COM terminal 116. Terminal VCC 112 is connected to a node 120, which is connected to a zener diode 122 and resistors 124 and 126. Zener diode 122 is connected to a node 104, which is connected to terminal COM 116. Resistor 124 is connected to a node 128 which is connected to a base 130 of transistor 132 and a collector 134 of transistor 136. A collector 138 of transistor 132 is connected to terminal TxIN 114 and an emitter 140 of transistor 132 is connected to node 104. Collector 134 of transistor 136 is connected to base 130 of transistor 132 via node 128, and an emitter 142 of transistor 136 is connected to node 104. A base 144 of transistor 136 is connected to a node 146. Node 146 is connected to resistor 126 and to an optocoupler 148 that is connected to node 104. Optocoupler 148 is also connected to power supply 111 and to a resistor 150, which is connected to microcontroller 22.
Controller interface circuit 24 is electrically connected by a serial cable 28 to motor control circuit 26. In one embodiment, the connection of controller interface circuit 24 to motor control circuit 26 enables controller 16 to communicate with ECM 20. Serial cable 28 in one embodiment is a four-wire serial interface. In one embodiment, serial cable 28 has a length of ten feet. In an alternative embodiment, serial cable 28 has a length of one-hundred feet. Referring specifically to FIG. 2 and FIG. 3, in one embodiment, controller receiver circuit 32 is electrically connected to motor transmitter circuit 92, and controller transmitter circuit 30 is electrically connected to motor receiver circuit 90. In order for controller interface circuit 24 to send and receive messages to/from motor control circuit 26, TxOut terminal 50 is connected to RxIN terminal 94, ground terminal 80 is connected to COM terminal 116, RxIN terminal 54 is connected to TxIN terminal 114, and VCC terminal 52 is connected to VCC terminal 112.
Controller interface circuit 24 accepts signals from controller 16 (shown in FIG. 1). Once a signal is received from controller 16, the signal is converted to a voltage level that can be accepted by ECM 20. In one embodiment, the signal is converted by controller interface circuit 24 to at least an infrared signal, an RF signal, and digitally encoded over a power line prior to output to motor control interface 26. In one embodiment, controller interface circuit 24 and motor control interface 26 are configured for bi-directional communication with one another. In one embodiment, motor control interface 26 is configured to accept at least one of a voltage signal, an infrared signal, an RF signal, and a digitally encoded power line signal. Motor receiver circuit 90 accepts the signal from controller transmitter circuit 30 and transmits the signal through optocoupler 106 to ECM 20. ECM 20 then responds by transmitting a voltage signal to motor transmitter circuit 92. In one embodiment, ECM 20 transmits at least one of an infrared signal and a RF signal to motor transmit circuit 92. The transmitted signal is converted by motor transmit circuit 92 and transmitted to controller receiver circuit 32 where the signal is adjusted to a voltage level to communicate with controller 16.
In addition, motor control interface circuit 26 provides isolation between controller 16 and ECM 20. Microcontroller 22 in one embodiment, is not isolated from an AC powerline (not shown). Optocouplers 106 and 148 are, therefore, utilized to isolate motor control interface circuit 26 from microcontroller 22. The interface between control interface circuit 24 and motor control circuit 26 is a four-wire serial interface. The four-wire serial interface is utilized for noise immunity.
Electrical interface 12 commands ECM 20 (shown in FIG. 1) to be configured in various embodiments, e.g., as a constant torque machine, a constant airflow machine, or a constant speed machine. As a constant torque machine, motor torque is regulated by controlling motor current, regardless of operating speed. When operating as a constant torque machine, torque production is linearized and speeds are compensated over the motor's operating speed/torque plane. When operating as a constant airflow machine, a set of constants that describe HVAC system 14 for constant airflow are downloaded to motor 20. The constants optimize ECM 20 operation to provide more accurate airflow regulation in a given operating region. Therefore, as a constant airflow machine, ECM 20 acts as an airflow sensor delivering constant airflow for a given system. As a constant speed machine, ECM 20 will regulate speed regardless of torque requirements provided that a maximum torque value is not exceeded.
In alternative embodiments, interface circuit 12 controls operating profiles, delay profiles, slew rates, speed limit, dynamic braking and control of inrush current of ECM 20. In an alternative embodiment, interface circuit 12 interrogates ECM 20 to determine operating status, operating speed, operating torque, input power consumption, under speed condition, and a time of operation at a given power level. In yet another embodiment, interface circuit 12 can access read/write data and program data to control memory of ECM 20.
In another embodiment, interface circuit 12 is connected to residential HVAC furnaces, fan coils, heat pumps, and heat recovery ventilators. In still another embodiment, interface circuit 12 is connected to residential HVAC air conditioners (not shown) where a blower motor (not shown) is connected to a HVAC system controller (not shown).
In an additional embodiment, interface circuit 12 is used in a clean room environment (not shown). In a further embodiment, interface circuit 12 is used in a commercial variable air volume system (not shown). When used in a clean room environment or in a commercial variable air volume system, a dedicated controller (not shown) is electrically connected to interface circuit 12, or a centralized controller (not shown) is connected to interface circuit 12 to provide individual control via a common communications bus (not shown).
As a result, a cost-effective and reliable electrical interface circuit, including a motor control interface circuit and a controller interface circuit, that couples a controller to an ECM is provided.
While the invention has been described in terms of various specific embodiments, those skilled in the art will recognize that the invention can be practiced with modification within the spirit and scope of the claims.
1. A method for interfacing an electric motor to a controller using an electrical interface circuit, the interface circuit including a controller circuit and a motor control circuit, the controller circuit including a transmitter circuit and a receiver circuit, the motor control circuit including a transmitter circuit and a receiver circuit, and the interface circuit electrically coupled to the controller and the electric motor, said method comprising the steps of: coupling the motor control circuit directly to the electric motor, wherein the motor control circuit is separate from the controller; adjusting a level of a first signal received from the controller that is separate from a thermostat configured to communicate a temperature to the controller; converting, by the interface circuit, the first signal received from the controller to generate a second signal including a digitally encoded signal and at least one of an infrared signal and a radio frequency (RF) signal, wherein the controller is coupled via the interface circuit to a microcontroller located within the electric motor comprising an electronically commutated motor; outputting the second signal to control the electric motor, wherein said outputting the second signal comprises outputting, by the interface circuit, the digitally encoded signal to the microcontroller within the electronically commutated motor; receiving, by the motor control circuit, a third signal from the electric motor; and transmitting the third signal from the electric motor to the controller.
2. A method in accordance with claim 1 further comprising receiving the first signal, wherein said step of receiving the first signal comprises the step of the controller circuit receiving electrical signals from the controller.
3. A method in accordance with claim 1 wherein said step of adjusting a level of the first signal comprises the step of adjusting the level to communicate with the electronically commutated motor.
4. A method in accordance with claim 1 wherein said step of outputting the second signal comprises the step of isolating a transmit signal to the electric motor.
5. A method in accordance with claim 1 wherein said step of outputting the second signal further comprises the step of interrogating the electric motor to acquire status and diagnostic information.
6. A method in accordance with claim 5 wherein said step of interrogating the electric motor further comprises the step of acquiring at least one of an operating status, an operating speed, an operating torque, an input power consumption, an under-speed condition, and a time of operation above a desired power level from the electric motor.
7. A method in accordance with claim 1 wherein said step of outputting the second signal further comprises the step of commanding the electric motor to operate as at least one of a constant torque motor, a constant airflow motor, and a constant speed motor.
8. A method in accordance with claim 1 wherein said step of outputting the second signal comprises the step of controlling at least one of an operating profile, a delay profile, a slew rate, a speed limit, dynamic braking, and an inrush current of the electric motor.
9. A method in accordance with claim 1 wherein said step of receiving a third signal comprises the step of isolating a receive signal from the electric motor.
10. A method in accordance with claim 1 wherein said step of transmitting the third signal comprises the step of converting an electrical signal from the electric motor to at least one of an infrared signal and an RF signal.
11. A method in accordance with claim 1 wherein the interface circuit is directly coupled to the controller.
12. A method in accordance with claim 1 wherein the controller is located outside the electronically commutated motor.
13. An electrical interface circuit comprising: a controller interface circuit configured to communicate signals with a controller, said controller interface circuit including a first transmitter circuit and a first receiver circuit, said electrical interface circuit further configured to convert a voltage signal to a digitally encoded signal and at least one of an infrared signal and an RF signal, said controller coupled via said electrical interface circuit to a microcontroller located within an electric motor comprising an electronically commutated motor, wherein said electrical interface circuit configured to output the digitally encoded signal to the microcontroller within the electronically commutated motor; and a motor control interface circuit directly coupled to said electric motor and coupled to said controller interface circuit, said motor control interface circuit comprising a second transmitter circuit and a second receiver circuit, is separate from said controller, and configured to receive signals generated by said electric motor.
14. An electrical interface circuit in accordance with claim 13 wherein said electrical interface circuit configured to adjust a voltage signal received from said controller to a desired level to communicate with said electric motor.
15. An electrical interface circuit in accordance with claim 14 wherein said electrical interface circuit configured to adjust the voltage level to communicate with said electric motor, said electronically commutated motor configured as an electronically commutated variable speed motor.
16. An electrical interface circuit in accordance with claim 13 wherein said electrical interface circuit configured to adjust a voltage signal received from said electric motor to a desired level to communicate with said controller.
17. An electrical interface circuit in accordance with claim 13 wherein said electrical interface circuit configured to isolate a transmit signal to said electric motor and isolate a receive signal from said electric motor.
18. An electrical interface circuit in accordance with claim 13 wherein said second transmitter circuit comprises a first optocoupler.
19. An electrical interface circuit in accordance with claim 18 wherein said first optocoupler configured to provide noise immunity by isolating said second transmitter circuit from said electric motor.
20. An electrical interface circuit in accordance with claim 13 wherein said second receiver circuit further comprises a second optocoupler.
21. An electrical interface circuit in accordance with claim 20 wherein said second optocoupler configured to provide noise immunity by isolating said second receiver circuit from said electric motor.
22. An electrical interface circuit according to claim 13 wherein said motor control interface circuit electrically connected to said controller interface circuit using at least one of a serial four-wire communications cable, a wireless interface, and a digital wireless interface.
23. An electrical interface circuit in accordance with claim 13 wherein said electrical interface circuit configured to interrogate said electric motor to acquire status and diagnostic information.
24. An electrical interface circuit in accordance with claim 13 wherein said electrical interface circuit configured to command said electric motor to operate as at least one of a constant torque motor, a constant airflow motor, and a constant speed motor.
25. An electrical interface circuit in accordance with claim 13 wherein said electrical interface circuit configured to interrogate said electric motor to acquire at least one of an operating status, an operating speed, an operating torque, an input power consumption, an under-speed condition, and a time of operation above a desired power level.
26. An electrical interface circuit in accordance with claim 13 wherein said electrical interface circuit configured to control at least an operating profile, a delay profile, a slew rate, a speed limit, dynamic braking, and an inrush current of said electric motor.
27. An electrical interface circuit according to claim 13 wherein said motor control interface circuit configured for bi-directional communication with said controller interface circuit using at least one of a voltage signal, an infrared signal, and a RF signal.
28. An electrical interface circuit according to claim 13 wherein said controller interface circuit configured for bi-directional communication with said motor control interface circuit using at least one of a voltage signal, an infrared signal, and a RF signal.
29. An electrical interface circuit according to claim 13 wherein said controller interface circuit configured to convert at least one of an infrared signal and an RF signal to a voltage signal.
30. An electrical interface circuit for a HVAC system comprising an electronically commutated motor, said electrical interface comprising: a controller interface circuit configured to communicate signals with a controller, said controller interface circuit including a first transmitter circuit and a first receiver circuit, said electrical interface circuit configured to convert a voltage signal to a digitally encoded signal and at least one of an infrared signal and an RF signal, said controller coupled via said electrical interface circuit to a microcontroller located within an electronically commutated motor, wherein said electrical interface circuit configured to communicate the digitally encoded signal to the microcontroller within the electronically commutated motor; and a motor control interface circuit directly coupled to said electronically commutated motor and coupled to said controller interface circuit, said motor control interface circuit coupled to said controller interface circuit by using a serial four-wire communications cable, said motor control interface circuit including a second transmitter circuit and a second receiver circuit, is separate from said controller, and configured to receive signals from said electronically commutated motor, said second transmitter circuit including a first optocoupler, and said second receiver circuit including a second optocoupler, said first and second optocouplers configured to isolate signals between said motor control interface circuit and said electronically commutated motor, and said electrical interface circuit configured to interrogate said electronically commutated motor to acquire status and diagnostic information.
31. An electrical interface circuit in accordance with claim 30 wherein said electrical interface circuit configured to command said electronically commutated motor to operate as at least one of a constant torque motor, a constant airflow motor, and a constant speed motor.
32. An electrical interface circuit in accordance with claim 30 wherein said electrical interface circuit configured to interrogate said electronically commutated motor to acquire at least one of an operating status, an operating speed, an operating torque, an input power consumption, an under-speed condition, and a time of operation above a desired power level.
33. An electrical interface circuit accordance with claim 30 wherein said electrical interface circuit configured to control at least an operating profile, a delay profile, a slew rate, a speed limit, dynamic braking, and an inrush current of said electronically commutated motor.
34. An electrical interface circuit for a HVAC system comprising an electronically commutated motor, said electrical interface comprising: a controller interface circuit configured to communicate signals with a controller, said controller interface circuit including a first transmitter circuit and a first receiver circuit, said electrical interface circuit configured to convert a voltage signal to a digitally encoded signal and at least one of an infrared signal and an RF signal, said controller coupled via said electrical interface circuit to a microcontroller located within an electronically commutated motor, wherein said electrical interface circuit configured to communicate the digitally encoded signal to the microcontroller within the electronically commutated motor; and a motor control interface circuit directly coupled to said electronically commutated motor and coupled to said controller interface circuit, said motor control interface circuit coupled to said controller interface circuit by using a digital wireless interface, said motor control interface circuit including a second transmitter circuit and a second receiver circuit, is separate from said controller, and configured to receive signals from said electronically commutated motor, said second transmitter circuit including a first optocoupler, said second receiver circuit including a second optocoupler, said first and second optocouplers configured to isolate signals between said motor control interface circuit and said electronically commutated motor, and said electrical interface circuit configured to interrogate said electronically commutated motor to acquire status and diagnostic information.
35. An electrical interface circuit according to claim 34 wherein said motor control interface circuit configured for bi-directional communication with said controller interface circuit using at least one of a voltage signal, an infrared signal, and a RF signal.
36. An electrical interface circuit according to claim 34 wherein said controller interface circuit configured for bi-directional communication with said motor control interface circuit using at least one of a voltage signal, an infrared signal, and a RF signal.
37. An electrical interface circuit according to claim 34 wherein said controller interface circuit configured to convert at least one of an infrared signal and an RF signal to a voltage signal.
38. An electrical interface circuit in accordance with claim 34 wherein said electrical interface circuit configured to command said electronically commutated motor to operate as at least one of a constant torque motor, a constant airflow motor, and a constant speed motor.
39. An electrical interface circuit in accordance with claim 34 wherein said electrical interface circuit configured to interrogate said electronically commutated motor to acquire at least one of an operating status, an operating speed, an operating torque, an input power consumption, an under-speed condition, and a time of operation above a desired power level.
40. An electrical interface circuit accordance with claim 34 wherein said electrical interface circuit configured to control at least an operating profile, a delay profile, a slew rate, a speed limit, dynamic braking, and an inrush current of said electronically commutated motor..
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revaind06ab.pdf
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insee.fr
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| "Profil couleur : DØsactivØ\nComposite 150 lpp\n45 degrØs\n\nLes revenus d’activité des indép(...TRUNCATED)
| 6,752
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2014/22014A0830(01)_2/22014A0830(01)_FR.txt_12
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CC-By
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French
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| 7,569
| 11,626
| "Directive 89/656/CEE du Conseil du 30 novembre 1989 concernant les prescriptions minimales de séc(...TRUNCATED)
| 11,850
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6245818_1
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Caselaw Access Project
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Open Government
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C. A. 5th Cir. Certiorari denied..
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