Abstract: A strut suitable for use in parallel manipulator and other applications utilizes an actuation member that is subjected to a quasi-static axial tensioning force to effectively preload the strut to provide axial stiffness and bending flexibility at one or more ends of the strut.

Abstract: Methods manage non-destructive evaluation (“NDE”) data. NDE data for an asset is received and at least one alignment algorithm to align the NDE data to a simulated model associated therewith is determined. The NDE data is automatically aligned to the simulated model, a display representation that visually represents the aligned NDE data on the simulated model is generated, and information about the aligned NDE data is exported. Additionally, second NDE data associated with the at least a portion of the asset may also be received, at least one alignment algorithm to align the data determined, and the second NDE data aligned. Respective indications associated with the first and second NDE data may be determined and visually represented on the simulated model. Moreover, a shot descriptor file may be analyzed to determine whether additional NDE data is required to complete an alignment of NDE data.

Abstract: An adjustable pouch machine comprises a vertical sealer module forms transverse seals between two piles of a pouch web to partially define a plurality of pouches. Rollers selectively tension and relax the web on the vertically oriented wheel, allowing them to drop away from heated lands on emergency and cycle stops. A filler wheel has a plurality of adjustable gripper units mounted directly thereon for transporting independent separate pouches cut from the pouch web. An adjustable knife is selectively provided with changeable knife hub sets to handle a variety of pouch sizes where a filler wheel alternately first fills and seals pouches in a train. Gear linkage accommodates variation in distance between hubs of different sets. Various embodiments, apparatus and methods are described.

Abstract: Methods manage non-destructive evaluation (“NDE”) data. NDE data for an asset is received and at least one alignment algorithm to align the NDE data to a simulated model associated therewith is determined. The NDE data is automatically aligned to the simulated model, a display representation that visually represents the aligned NDE data on the simulated model is generated, and information about the aligned NDE data is exported. Additionally, second NDE data associated with the at least a portion of the asset may also be received, at least one alignment algorithm to align the data determined, and the second NDE data aligned. Respective indications associated with the first and second NDE data may be determined and visually represented on the simulated model. Moreover, a shot descriptor file may be analyzed to determine whether additional NDE data is required to complete an alignment of NDE data.

Abstract: An adjustable pouch machine comprises a vertical sealer module forms transverse seals between two plies of a pouch web to partially define a plurality of pouches. Rollers selectively tension and relax the web on the vertically oriented wheel, allowing them to drop away from heated lands on emergency and cycle stops. A filler wheel has a plurality of adjustable gripper units mounted directly thereon for transporting independent separate pouches cut from the pouch web. An adjustable knife is selectively provided with changeable knife hub sets to handle a variety of pouch sizes where a filler wheel alternately first fills and seals pouches in a train. Gear linkage accommodates variation in distance between hubs of different sets. Various embodiments, apparatus and methods are described.

Abstract: An adjustable pouch machine comprises a vertical sealer module forms transverse seals between two plies of a pouch web to partially define a plurality of pouches. Rollers selectively tension and relax the web on the vertically oriented wheel, allowing them to drop away from heated lands on emergency and cycle stops. A filler wheel has a plurality of adjustable gripper units mounted directly thereon for transporting independent separate pouches cut from the pouch web. An adjustable knife is selectively provided with changeable knife hub sets to handle a variety of pouch sizes where a filler wheel alternately first fills and seals pouches in a train. Gear linkage accommodates variation in distance between hubs of different sets. Various embodiments, apparatus and methods are described.

Abstract: Systems and methods for measuring environmental conditions of a sensing location, where a sensor including a measuring surface and a wire coupled in tension to the measuring surface over which ultrasonic signals may be transmitted and sensed. Signal analysis of ultrasonic signals transmitted over the tensioned wire are analyzed to measure one or more environmental conditions acting on the measuring surface.

Abstract: A broadband waveguide incorporates various reflection suppression techniques to reduce reflections in signals communicated thereby. The waveguide includes one or more filaments that each include a first and second end. A first matrix may be configured proximate the first end(s) while a second matrix may be configured proximate an intermediate location between the first and second ends. A damping material may cover a portion of the filament(s) that extends from the second matrix to the second end(s) (including the second end(s) themselves) and/or the second end(s) of the filament(s) is/are shaped to at least partially suppress reflections of the signal therefrom. When configured with multiple filaments, at least two of the filaments may have differing lengths that extend from the second matrix and also operate to at least partially suppress reflections of a signal.

Abstract: An adjustable pouch machine comprises a vertical sealer module forms transverse seals between two plies of a pouch web to partially define a plurality of pouches. Rollers selectively tension and relax the web on the vertically oriented wheel, allowing them to drop away from heated lands on emergency and cycle stops. A filler wheel has a plurality of adjustable gripper units mounted directly thereon for transporting independent separate pouches cut from the pouch web. An adjustable knife is selectively provided with changeable knife hub sets to handle a variety of pouch sizes where a filler wheel alternately first fills and seals pouches in a train. Gear linkage accommodates variation in distance between hubs of different sets. Various embodiments, apparatus and methods are described.

Abstract: Systems and methods for measuring environmental conditions of a sensing location, where a sensor including a measuring surface and a wire coupled in tension to the measuring surface over which ultrasonic signals may be transmitted and sensed. Signal analysis of ultrasonic signals transmitted over the tensioned wire are analyzed to measure one or more environmental conditions acting on the measuring surface.

Abstract: A broadband waveguide incorporates various reflection suppression techniques to reduce reflections in signals communicated thereby. The waveguide includes one or more filaments that each include a first and second end. A first matrix may be configured proximate the first end(s) while a second matrix may be configured proximate an intermediate location between the first and second ends. A damping material may cover a portion of the filament(s) that extends from the second matrix to the second end(s) (including the second end(s) themselves) and/or the second end(s) of the filament(s) is/are shaped to at least partially suppress reflections of the signal therefrom. When configured with multiple filaments, at least two of the filaments may have differing lengths that extend from the second matrix and also operate to at least partially suppress reflections of a signal.

Abstract: A method of simulating loading of an area on a workpiece in a production line type process. Also, a simulation press having a main body and an actuator attached thereto. The actuator is substantially aligned with the main body. A first plate is coupled to the main body and a second plate is coupled to the actuator. Both plates are adapted to engage a workpiece so as to simulate various modes of deformation of an area or areas on the workpiece when the second plate is moved relative to the first plate. The simulation press further includes a drive controller for controlling operation of the actuator. The drive controller additionally responds to feedback from at least one feedback sensor included with the simulation press.

Abstract: A simulation press having a main body and an actuator attached thereto. The actuator is substantially aligned with the main body. A first plate is coupled to the main body and a second plate is coupled to the actuator. Both plates are adapted to engage a workpiece so as to simulate various modes of deformation of an area or areas on the workpiece when the second plate is moved relative to the first plate. The simulation press further includes a drive controller for controlling operation of the actuator. The drive controller additionally responds to feedback from at least one feedback sensor included with the simulation press.

Abstract: A simulation press having a main body and an actuator attached thereto. The actuator is substantially aligned with the main body. A first plate is coupled to the main body and a second plate is coupled to the actuator. Both plates are adapted to engage a workpiece so as to simulate various modes of deformation of an area or areas on the workpiece when the second plate is moved relative to the first plate. The simulation press further includes a drive controller for controlling operation of the actuator. The drive controller additionally responds to feedback from at least one feedback sensor included with the simulation press.