How about using an off-the-shelf programmable logic controller (PLC) in an automobile, appliance, etc.It seems like many of these commodities are computer controlled; yet each company or product has their own computer chip, printed circuit board, etc. Why not use a standard PLC in these functions instead of designing new control assemblies for each product? In addition, how about having standard off-the-shelf control software? There are standard PLC’s but there does not seem to be off-the-shelf control software to use in these PLC’s – similar to ready-to-purchase personal computer programs. Many of the functions are similar from one machine to another. With these software control modules, most of the programming grunt-work would be done already and only need to be slightly modified for each specific product application. Example – every vehicle should not be started while in-gear (applicable for all vehicle manufacturers) – probably no need to duplicate software programming from one manufacturer or model to another. Goal is to offer an off-the-shelf software control module that would install on any PLC, similar to installing a word processing or budgeting program on a personal computer. Would save time, money, and stop re-inventing the wheel.Possible Start Building Blocks – - Existing concepts for industrial control systems using PLC’s, etc.
- USPTO Class/Subclasses for "How-To" ideas – 68/12.01, 706/1, 318/138
See disclaimers on TG Ideas LLC publications and website - http://www.athenet.net/~ideas/, Thanks!
For exercise treadmills, how about having a non-contact user proximity detector, instead of the usual clothing clip-on stop switch? Would be automatic safety item to prevent people from not running fast enough – and not require runner to clip anything on. This new device could have an adhesive backing and fit right over the existing magnetic target on the treadmill. No rewiring or complicated retrofit operations. Example – stick on new device and treadmill would operate as long a person were sensed on the treadmill – plus give a warning to the runner to run a little faster if approaching the back of the treadmill track. Maybe green, yellow, red color lights.Also, there doesn’t seem to be headsets for folks to keep in touch while exercising – sweat/water proof, lightweight, wind-noise resistant, computer enhanced voice recognition to compensate for heavy breathing, etc. Would make exercise more enjoyable.Possible Start Building Blocks – - Existing concepts for walkie-talkies, conveyor proximity detectors, car wash vehicle control systems, etc.
- USPTO Class/Subclasses for "How-To" ideas – 340/686, 340/556
See disclaimers on TG Ideas LLC publications and website - http://www.athenet.net/~ideas/, Thanks!
