Hub for a modular intelligent assist system
DCFirst Claim
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1. A multi-function hub for use in an intelligent assist system, the multi-function hub comprising:
- a physical interface configured and arranged to be a central interface point for an operator;
a computational node disposed on the physical interface, the computational node comprising programmable logic for implementing program controlled functions; and
an input/output (“
I/O”
) interface for interfacing with an information network and disposed on the physical interface, the I/O interface being adapted to communicate with the computational node on the physical interface and at least one computational node disposed on at least one other module within the intelligent assist system wherein the I/O interface communicates with the computational node disposed on the other module via a common data link, and the I/O interface uses a digital communication protocol to communicate with the computational node on the other module via the common data link.
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Abstract
An intelligent assist system having a modular architecture, coordinated by electronic communication links between the modules is provided. A multi-function hub for use in the assist system includes a physical interface for providing mechanical support within the assist system. The hub can implement controlled functions. Furthermore, the hub can include an input/output (“I/O”) interface for communication to computational nodes.
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Citations
40 Claims
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1. A multi-function hub for use in an intelligent assist system, the multi-function hub comprising:
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a physical interface configured and arranged to be a central interface point for an operator;
a computational node disposed on the physical interface, the computational node comprising programmable logic for implementing program controlled functions; and
an input/output (“
I/O”
) interface for interfacing with an information network and disposed on the physical interface, the I/O interface being adapted to communicate with the computational node on the physical interface and at least one computational node disposed on at least one other module within the intelligent assist system wherein the I/O interface communicates with the computational node disposed on the other module via a common data link, and the I/O interface uses a digital communication protocol to communicate with the computational node on the other module via the common data link. - View Dependent Claims (2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36, 37, 38, 39, 40)
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Specification