With Alarm, Signal, Indicator, Or Test Means Patents (Class 100/99)
  • Patent number: 5605095
    Abstract: A round baler having a main frame, a bale forming chamber on the main frame, a pickup for feeding crop material into the chamber, and a tailgate pivotally connected to the main frame for rearwardly discharging completed bales. The chamber is defined by an apron extending around a plurality of guide rolls on the periphery of the chamber, the tailgate, and a floor. The bale forming chamber varies in size from a core starting position to a full bale position. A crop loading monitor having sensors in the bale forming chamber provides signals representing compactness of the crop material during bale formation. The signals are utilizable by the operator to enhance his capabilities for making properly shaped bales.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 13, 1996
    Date of Patent: February 25, 1997
    Assignee: New Holland North America, Inc.
    Inventor: John R. McClure
  • Patent number: 5592875
    Abstract: A roll system for use particularly in a papermaking press nip for dewatering a fibrous web, comprising a roll disposed so as to rotatingly cooperate with another roll in a press nip, the roll having a helical sensor for sensing pressure exhibited on the roll, and transmitting pressure signals to a processor as the roll rotates. Trigger signals are generated at certain times as the roll rotates, the time of the occurrence of the trigger signal representing a specific location on the helical sensor. The pressure signals are coordinated with the trigger signals, such that the pressure corresponds to the angular position of the roll where it is sensed. The operator may thus be given a visual or audible indication of the existence of non-uniformities in pressure sensed at various locations along the roll, thereby enabling corrective action to be initiated if necessary.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 16, 1994
    Date of Patent: January 14, 1997
    Assignee: Stowe Woodward Licensco, Inc.
    Inventor: Charles Moschel
  • Patent number: 5568766
    Abstract: A method for controlling the drive of a hydraulic press and an associated device for carrying out the method are proposed, the piston/cylinder unit belonging to a press ram being driven via several hydraulic devices connected in series. Depending on the operating phase of the press, the hydraulic devices are here used as required either as hydraulic motors or hydraulic pumps, which effect a delivery of pressure medium into the respective cylinder chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 30, 1994
    Date of Patent: October 29, 1996
    Assignee: Maschinenfabrik Mueller-Weingarten AG
    Inventors: Carsten Otremba, Guenther Schaich, Joachim Beyer
  • Patent number: 5562028
    Abstract: A continuously operating press for production of particle boards, fiber boards or similar wood boards and plastic boards includes flexible endless steel belts which transmit pressing pressure and pull materials to be pressed through the press. The steel belts are guided via driving drums and reversing drums around an upper and a lower press beam and are supported with an adjustable press nip against upper and lower press/heating platens on the press beams via rolling supporting elements which accompany their revolution and are guided with their axes transverse to the running direction of the belt.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 21, 1995
    Date of Patent: October 8, 1996
    Assignee: Maschinenfabrik J. Dieffenbacher GmbH & Co.
    Inventors: Friedrich B. Bielfeldt, Detlef Kroll
  • Patent number: 5562027
    Abstract: A system for measuring the dynamic pressure distribution between rolls in a nip roll press comprises a roll adapted to rotatingly contact at least one other roll in a press nip, having one or more sensors thereon, for measuring the nip pressure at several locations along the roll length, wherein the measurements obtained by the sensors are transmitted to a computer and a display, to provide tabular, numerical and graphical representations of the pressure at one or more locations on the roll. Optionally a control system may be incorporated in the system for determining the pressure distribution along the roll and initiating corrective measures. The system of the instant invention can further measure temperature variations, if desired, as thermal sensors can be used on the sensing roll, or a computerized correlation scheme can relate sensor readings to temperature as well as pressure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 16, 1995
    Date of Patent: October 8, 1996
    Assignee: Stowe Woodward Licensco, Inc.
    Inventor: Robert H. Moore
  • Patent number: 5558013
    Abstract: An electronic device for monitoring the fullness of a trash receptacle is disclosed. The trash receptacle is associated with a compactor that has a compression member for compacting trash within the receptacle. The compression member is powered by an electric motor. The current drawn by the electric motor is monitored by a current sensor. As more trash is deposited and compacted, the sensor detects an increased current flow in the electric motor. A microprocessor operates on the current sensor readings to determine the relative fullness of the receptacle. The current sensor readings are evaluated by an algorithm which distinguishes the current readings due to foward compactor ram motion of the compression member from current readings due to reverse compactor ram motion. The algorithm compares modified derivatives of the current sensor readings to threshold values of the derivatives in order to determine the relative fullness of the receptacle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 30, 1992
    Date of Patent: September 24, 1996
    Inventor: James O. Blackstone, Jr.
  • Patent number: 5537919
    Abstract: A continuously operating press for the production of particle boards, fiber boards and similar wood boards and plastic boards, wherein a spherical geometrical deformation of the press/heating platen in the longitudinal and transverse directions with the hydraulic actuators in positive or non-positive engagement with the press/heating platen is set during start-up or production by means of different actuating forces in the longitudinal and transverse directions, the setting process being independent of the reaction forces of pressing stock, wherein, to allow a convex bending deformation to be set at the maximum pressing force, the central actuators in each row of actuators are dimensioned to give 105% to about 150% of the maximum pressing force in relation to the outer actuators, and wherein each row of actuators has a position sensor system comprising a feeler rod, a reference gauge bar, a lever mechanism and a measured-value transmitter with a position sensor for the press-nip actual value in the center of t
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 27, 1994
    Date of Patent: July 23, 1996
    Assignee: Maschinenfabrik J. Dieffenbacher GmbH & Co.
    Inventors: Friedrich B. Bielfeldt, Matthias Graf
  • Patent number: 5507097
    Abstract: A laser apparatus for inspecting machine tie bars. The apparatus broadly comprises a laser emitter, a photocell target, a control unit, a computer, a display unit and precision adapters for mounting the emitter and target. The laser emitter is mounted on a fixed platen and oriented substantially square to a surface of the fixed platen. The target is mounted on the tie bar and intercepts a laser beam from the emitter to generate voltages which are processed in the control unit and computer. Angular and lateral deviations of the laser beam from a rotational axis of the target, which are indicative of tie bar straightness and squareness, are displayed on the display unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 1995
    Date of Patent: April 16, 1996
    Assignee: Intra Corporation
    Inventors: David H. Duey, John A. Battista
  • Patent number: 5493961
    Abstract: A press for making pressed board has a plurality of longitudinally spaced rigid frames, a lower press plate extending longitudinally through and secured to the frames, and a normally planar upper press plate extending longitudinally above the lower plate through the frames and defining with the lower press plate a longitudinally throughgoing press gap. A plurality of vertically effective double-acting hydraulic cylinders carried on the frames above the upper plate each have a back compartment and a front compartment, are connected to the upper plate, and support the upper plate on the frames. Respective upper and lower endless belts have respective lower and upper stretches extending through the gap immediately below and above the respective upper and lower plates and respective upper and lower rollers advance the stretches longitudinally through the frames. Sensors connected to the lower plate produce an output corresponding to the size of the gap.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 9, 1994
    Date of Patent: February 27, 1996
    Assignee: G. Siempelkamp GmbH & Co.
    Inventors: Klaus Gerhardt, Lothar Sebastian
  • Patent number: 5491647
    Abstract: A process controller disposed to monitor and control a press. The controller monitors an appropriate variable at the press representative of the force produced at the workpiece upon which the press is operating, and compares this force to historical force data associated with the position at which the force was sampled. The historical data is stored in the form of control arrays, where the control arrays are calculated based upon one or more signature arrays stored during satisfactory press operations upon a similar workpiece. The calculation of the control arrays takes into account the deviations in the variables monitored at the press, which may include force and position. While monitoring the press based upon the HIGH and LOW control arrays, each force value is compared to the values in the HIGH and LOW control arrays at the time of sampling.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 7, 1994
    Date of Patent: February 13, 1996
    Assignee: Signature Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Michael J. O'Brien, Robert M. Carabbio, Bill Hemsath, Kevin D. Knussmann, Thomas C. Robbins
  • Patent number: 5489200
    Abstract: A compress/melt waste processor includes a frame; a chamber housing having walls which define a chamber therein; a ram movably disposed in the chamber; a sensor which senses pressure applied by the ram; an actuator operatively connected to the ram to move the ram; a chamber hatch upon which the housing is mounted, the chamber housing walls, the ram and the chamber hatch defining a space therebetween; and a device for feeding contaminated plastic waste into the chamber. The apparatus also includes a device for heating the housing walls, the ram and the chamber hatch; a device for cooling the housing walls, the ram and the chamber hatch, a device for detecting temperature of the housing walls, the ram, the chamber hatch and the contaminated plastic waste in the chamber; and a control device for controlling the actuator and the heating and cooling devices.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 29, 1994
    Date of Patent: February 6, 1996
    Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the Navy
    Inventors: Peter S. McGraw, John L. Drake, Jr., Thomas H. Hane
  • Patent number: 5469783
    Abstract: A large cylindrical enclosure shaped to look like a huge beverage can has a recessed area in its outer wall containing an operator's panel and an opening into the interior for inserting empty recyclable beverage cans. Inside the enclosure is a conveyor for receiving the inserted cans, a discriminator for distinguishing between ferrous and non-ferrous cans and a pneumatic transporter for carrying the cans to a mechanical crusher which compacts the cans individually and discharges them into a temporary storage area from which they are removed from time to time for recycling. The operator'panel includes a photoelectric sensor for initiating operation of the mechanisms in the interior of the structure and may also include various visual readouts as well as a dispenser for feeding out coins, printed credit slips and receipts.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 4, 1994
    Date of Patent: November 28, 1995
    Assignee: Eugene L. Fry
    Inventor: Gene Fry
  • Patent number: 5461972
    Abstract: Method and device for handling recycling packages, such as bottles and cans in which a recycling package is introduced into a receiving space in the device and is transferred by a conveyor device into an identification position. After the identification of the package, the recycling package is transferred to a crusher device for crushing the package and then the crushed package is transferred to a storage container. The conveyor device includes a conveyor having lifting members fixed thereto and which contact the recycling package in the receiving space. The package is lifted by the lifting members to the identification position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 18, 1994
    Date of Patent: October 31, 1995
    Assignee: Halton System Oy
    Inventor: Pekka Tahkanen
  • Patent number: 5460084
    Abstract: A method for controlling a drive for a hydraulic press employed for at least one of forming and cutting sheets of metal. The method involves a press comprising: a press ram and at least one piston-cylinder unit operatively connected to the press ram and including a drive piston having an upper side and a lower side, the drive piston further comprising an upper cylinder chamber communicating with the upper side, and a lower cylinder chamber communicating with the lower side. The method comprises the step of pressurizing the drive piston with hydraulic medium on at least one of its upper side and its lower side for driving the press ram.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 11, 1994
    Date of Patent: October 24, 1995
    Assignee: Maschinenfabrik Mueller-Weingarten AG
    Inventors: Carsten Otremba, Guenther Schaich, Joachim Beyer
  • Patent number: 5459767
    Abstract: An accurate method for testing the strength of nuclear fuel particles. Each particle includes an upper and lower portion, and is placed within a testing apparatus having upper and lower compression members. The upper compression member includes a depression therein which is circular and sized to receive only part of the upper portion of the particle. The lower compression member also includes a similar depression. The compression members are parallel to each other with the depressions therein being axially aligned. The fuel particle is then placed between the compression members and engaged within the depressions. The particle is then compressed between the compression members until it fractures. The amount of force needed to fracture the particle is thereafter recorded. This technique allows a broader distribution of forces and provides more accurate results compared with systems which distribute forces at singular points on the particle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 21, 1994
    Date of Patent: October 17, 1995
    Assignee: Lockheed Idaho Technologies Company
    Inventor: Paul A. Lessing
  • Patent number: 5454304
    Abstract: A method for the continuous production of boards made from feedstock includes A) providing a continuously operating press with an entry adjustment device being movable to define a variable angle entry gap through which the board passes such that the board is subject to compression forces, the variable angle entry gap defined by at least first and second independently variable angle entry gap portions, the first and second portions being flexibly connected and the second portion being flexibly connected at least to one of the heating plates of the press table and press ram; B) moving the feedstock through the variable angle entry gap; C) setting the first independent variable entry gap at a first angular value which falls in a first range from approximately 0.5.degree. to approximately 5.0.degree.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 26, 1995
    Date of Patent: October 3, 1995
    Assignee: Maschinenfabrik J. Dieffenbacher GmbH & Co.
    Inventor: Friedrich B. Bielfeldt
  • Patent number: 5445072
    Abstract: An apparatus for adjusting bottom-dead-center position of a slide in mechanical press including a connecting rod 4 connected to a crank shaft 3, and a hydraulic cylinder 15 provided between the connecting rod 4 and a slide 5. The hydraulic cylinder 15 has a piston rod 16 having one end connected to the connecting rod 4, a cylinder body 17 capable of moving relative to the piston rod 16, a hydraulic chamber 27 formed below a piston portion 16A, and a pressure adjusting means 45 connected to this hydraulic chamber 27. An extending member 19 for connecting the connecting rod and the cylinder body is fitted around an outer periphery of the piston rod 16, and the adjustment of the bottom-dead-center position of the slide can be effected as the extending member 19 is extended by the adjustment of hydraulic pressure within the hydraulic chamber 27.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 12, 1994
    Date of Patent: August 29, 1995
    Assignee: Aida Engineering Ltd.
    Inventors: Takashi Yagi, Mitsuo Sato
  • Patent number: 5440978
    Abstract: A waste paper receptacle/compactor employing a container section and a lid section. Suspended within the container section is an expandable liner with a cylinder supported inside of the liner at the top thereof. The cylinder serves as a staging area for placement of spent and crumpled paper towels. The cylinder works in conjunction with a piston which extends down from the lid section. The liner is biased to contract circumferentially. In such manner, when a used desires to discard spent and crumpled paper towels, that user opens the lid section and inserts the towel into the staging area and allows lid section to close thereon. The piston drives the paper towel down into the liner below the cylinder. The inwardly direction bias of the liner prevents the towels from opening or flowering in the container section. A loop is provided at the top of the liner providing a handle for extracting a full liner from the container section.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 8, 1994
    Date of Patent: August 15, 1995
    Assignee: Scott Paper Company
    Inventors: Edward J. O'Brien, Nathan D. Bloch
  • Patent number: 5417865
    Abstract: The invention concerns a method of detecting and removing bulges in continuous strips of material before they enter higher-pressure zones in a dewatering filter press. The method is characterized in that, when a bulge occurs, a sensor is deflected and a control signal generated. The invention also concerns a device for carrying out the method, the device being characterized in that it is fitted with a preferably pressure-tight sensor which is deflected when a bulge occurs in the strip of material being filtered and can be reset when the bulge disappears.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 5, 1993
    Date of Patent: May 23, 1995
    Assignee: Andritz-Patenverwaltungs-Gesellschaft M.B.H.
    Inventors: Peter Scheucher, Giselher Stummer
  • Patent number: 5415086
    Abstract: A preferred embodiment includes first and second waste storage compartments for storing separately nonrecyclable and recyclable waste products. A compression member is operably associated with the first and second waste storage compartments for compressing waste material therein. The compression member includes a ram operably connected to a piston and cylinder assembly. The ram is displaced along a single directional path to compress waste material in both the first and second waste storage compartments. An adjustable member is operably associated with the first and second waste storage compartments for varying the storage capacity thereof. The adjustment member includes a baffle extending substantially the length of the first and second waste storage compartments. The baffle is hingedly connected to a support member. Upper and lower doors are associated with each of the first and second storage compartments.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 27, 1991
    Date of Patent: May 16, 1995
    Assignee: Marathon Equipment Company
    Inventor: James K. Robbins
  • Patent number: 5400726
    Abstract: A method for treating waste involves (a) compressing the waste at a pressure of over 800 bars under conditions resulting in separation of the wet fermentable fraction and the solid combustible fraction; (b) exploiting each of these two fractions separately by means of, for the fermentable fraction, specific treatment to take advantage of its biomass nature and, for the combustible fraction, burning to produce energy. The method allows the waste to be exploited with high profitability. The invention also describes an improved press for compression in two successive phases: a precompression phase up to an intermediate pressure (200 to 300 bars) and final compression up to a final pressure of over 800 bars.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 18, 1993
    Date of Patent: March 28, 1995
    Inventor: Pierre Dumons
  • Patent number: 5389346
    Abstract: A bio-hazardous waste compactor is described which provides a negative air pressure and venting system while allowing for the filtration of the air and control of sound. The compactor contains a sealed chamber which includes a sump area in the bottom of the chamber for fluid control. Waste is weighed so that the operator knows when to remove the waste. Ultraviolet light is provided to prevent the growth of vegetative pathogenic organisms. Finally, a disposable bag to be used in connection with such a bio-hazardous waste compactor is described which has an inner porous layer, an intermediate, biocide-containing, super-absorbent polymer layer and an outer non-porous layer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 20, 1993
    Date of Patent: February 14, 1995
    Inventor: Maxie L. Copeland, Jr.
  • Patent number: 5388507
    Abstract: An automatic process in which after the press is filled and before starting a normal pressing cycle the flow rate of liquids is measured continuously without applying any pressing pressure. The tank is then rotated and the minimum and maximum values of the flow rates are determined and then compared respectively with predetermined values. Based upon this comparison and as a function of the results of the comparisons there is performed a preliminary pressurized draining of the materials to be pressed while at the same time the orifices for evacuation of the liquids are checked for possible clogging. These operations are repeated until the results of the comparisons no longer warrant a pressurized preliminary draining and subsequently initiating the normal pressing cycle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 18, 1994
    Date of Patent: February 14, 1995
    Assignee: Constructions Meca-Metalliques Chalonnaises SA
    Inventor: Jean Bonnet
  • Patent number: 5384436
    Abstract: A mobile apparatus and method for weighing bales on an electronic scale in a field. Fixedly supported on the rear end of a mobile crop baler are two load cells from which is pivotably suspended the inboard end of a bale-receiving-structure. The outboard end of the bale-receiving-structure is adjustably supported by a tether from at least one other load cell fixed to a rearwardly extended portion of the baler which allows the outboard end to swing upwardly as the underside of the bale-receiving-structure encounters berms in the field thereby preventing damage to the electronic scale components. The weight of each bale produced by the baler is digitally readout in the baler cabin where, by comparison to a predetermined weight, real time adjustments are automatically or manually made to adjust bale weight to the predetermined weight, thereby achieving greater weighing accuracy and enhanced overall output from the field. The scale may be used on original equipment balers or made to retrofit existing balers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 30, 1993
    Date of Patent: January 24, 1995
    Inventor: Gary E. Pritchard
  • Patent number: 5379689
    Abstract: A multipurpose, automatic, self-contained device for manufacturing or repairing a workpiece made from a composite material includes a frame having an upper frame member and a lower frame member. A mechanical apparatus for providing a compressive force is mounted to the lower frame member and a lower platen is mounted to a movable member of the apparatus. An upper platen, positioned opposite to the lower platen, is mounted to the upper frame member. At least one heater is associated with at least one of the platens to apply heat to the workpiece and at least one temperature sensor is provided for mounting to the workpiece. The lower platen is moved toward and away from the upper platen by the mechanical apparatus to apply a compressive force to the workpiece disposed between the platens as a function of the temperature sensed from the workpiece and/or according to a predetermined schedule or plan.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 29, 1993
    Date of Patent: January 10, 1995
    Assignee: General Electric Company
    Inventors: James V. Timmons, Bert C. Jones, III, Paul S. Manicke
  • Patent number: 5379688
    Abstract: Pressing force with which a die tool presses on a workpiece is controlled so as to be constant at all times. The magnitude of pressing force with which the die tool presses on the workpiece during press working is detected with a semiconductor strain gauge (84), and the pressing force detected and a preset pressing force are compared with each other by a controller. If there is a difference between the pressing force detected and the preset pressing force, a screw rod (35) is turned by an AC servomotor (24) so as to adjust the length of a lower ram (60), thereby controlling the pressing force.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 28, 1993
    Date of Patent: January 10, 1995
    Inventor: Mitishi Ishii
  • Patent number: 5361615
    Abstract: An apparatus used for measuring a holding force expected to be applied to a pressure member of a press, before the lower and upper dies and the pressure member are installed on the press. The apparatus includes a measuring member to be placed on cushion pins of the press associated with a fluid-actuated cylinder via a cushion pad. A sensing element is disposed on the measuring member or a main slide carrying the upper die, such that the holding force produced by force applying means which includes the cylinder acts on the sensing element, when the measuring member is lowered with the sensing element by the main slide in its downward movement towards a bolster on which the lower due is fixed. A load detecting device is disposed on the sensing element for detecting the holding force acting on the latter. The apparatus also includes a device for recording the holding force as detected by the load detecting device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 7, 1993
    Date of Patent: November 8, 1994
    Assignee: Toyota Jidosha Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Kazunari Kirii, Masahiro Shinabe, Tsutomu Ono, Masuo Watanabe, Hideo Koshida
  • Patent number: 5329846
    Abstract: A tissue press for shaping or compressing a piece of tissue comprises first and second members movable relative to each other. A first forming element of a predetermined shape is selectively engageable on the first member. A second forming element of predetermined shape is selectively engageable on the second member. The first and second forming elements are positionable on opposite sides of the piece of tissue. The first and second members are relatively movable between a first spaced apart condition and a second condition in which the piece of tissue is held between the first and second forming elements. Means are preferably provided for monitoring and controlling the amount of pressure applied to the piece of tissue, in order to maintain the tissue in a viable living condition. Means may also be provided for draining off fluid from compressed tissue, so that the tissue can be implanted in a compressed state and imbibe fluid from the host site.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 12, 1991
    Date of Patent: July 19, 1994
    Inventor: Peter M. Bonutti
  • Patent number: 5303641
    Abstract: A method for checking the driving and control system of a hydraulic punch press is provided which comprises the steps of delivering a stop order signal to the driving device, sensing the position of the sliding punch member along its stroke and comparing the time or the distance required by the punch member to come practically to a stop, with preset reference values, and producing a fault signal when the time or distance exceeds the preset reference values.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 22, 1992
    Date of Patent: April 19, 1994
    Inventor: Jean-Pierre Gallandere
  • Patent number: 5303642
    Abstract: In a system for monitoring trash compactors, each monitoring unit associated with a trash compactor comprises a transducer for sensing hydraulic pressure, for generating an analog signal from the sensed pressure, and for converting the analog signal to a frequency signal, and a microprocessor. The microprocessor compares pressure signal values generated from the frequency signal over timed intervals to a specified value indicative of a compaction. The microprocessor also compares the maximum pressure signal value generated therefrom, under certain conditions, to a threshold value indicative of the trash compactor having a substantially empty compactor and to a threshold value indicative of the trash compactor having a substantially full container. Whenever a specified, plural number of substantially full compactions have been determined, a modem sends a status signal to a computer at a remote location or a facsimile message to a facsimile machine at a remote location.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 2, 1993
    Date of Patent: April 19, 1994
    Assignee: One Plus Corp.
    Inventors: Martin J. Durbin, Morris Simon
  • Patent number: 5299493
    Abstract: In a system for monitoring trash compactors, each monitoring unit associated with a trash compactor comprises a transducer for sensing hydraulic pressure, for generating an analog signal from the sensed pressure, and for converting the analog signal to a frequency signal, and a microprocessor. The microprocessor compares pressure signal values generated from the frequency signal over timed intervals to a specified value indicative of a compaction. The microprocessor also compares the maximum pressure signal value generated therefrom, under certain conditions, to a threshold value indicative of the trash compactor having a substantially empty compactor and to a threshold value indicative of the trash compactor having a substantially full container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 13, 1992
    Date of Patent: April 5, 1994
    Assignee: One Plus Corp.
    Inventors: Martin J. Durbin, Morris Simon
  • Patent number: 5299142
    Abstract: A method of determining the fullness of a compactor having a reciprocating ram and a container includes the steps of setting a target for the number of reciprocations of the ram required to fill the container to a preselected partial fullness. Each reciprocation of the ram is monitored and the total number is summed. The total number of reciprocations is compared to the target number, and the percentage fullness is calculated from those numbers. The percentage fullness is then displayed locally.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 6, 1992
    Date of Patent: March 29, 1994
    Assignee: Marathon Equipment Company
    Inventors: Ronald L. Brown, Rick J. Hemingway
  • Patent number: 5291825
    Abstract: A compacting device for conforming a variety of refuse materials, such as glass and plastic, into generally rectilinear bales, and for compacting aluminum and tin refuse material into generally square-shaped stable bales for recycling. The compacting device includes a housing enclosing a chamber and an extendable and retractable plunger disposed within the chamber. A hopper receives refuse material to be crushed or compacted, and directs the material into the chamber. An exit chamber door has a plurality of equidistantly spaced-apart rectilinear chamber door protrusions projecting from the inner face of the exit chamber door, and the face of the plunger includes a plurality of equidistantly spaced-apart rectilinear plunger face protrusions extending forwardly from the plunger face. The plunger face protrusions are adapted for forcibly contacting and compressing the material deposited within the chamber door protrusions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 8, 1993
    Date of Patent: March 8, 1994
    Inventor: Carl O. Dietrich
  • Patent number: 5289766
    Abstract: Apparatus for cooling the end portions of a calender roll which has an elastic layer adjacent its peripheral surface and wherein the central portion of the peripheral surface is overlapped by a running web of paper or other material when the calender is in use. The width of the non-overlapped portions of the peripheral surface of the roll varies when a web having a first width is followed by a web having a different second width. This could lead to damage to the roll at the non-overlapped portions of the peripheral surface as a result of overheating by an adjacent rotary component of the calender. The end portions of the roll are cooled by discrete adjustable cooling devices which are movable along the respective non-overlapped portions of the peripheral surface in parallelism with the axis of the roll and each of which shares movements with a monitoring device which is to be maintained in a selected position relative to the adjacent marginal portion of a running web.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 1, 1993
    Date of Patent: March 1, 1994
    Assignee: Kleinewefers GmbH
    Inventors: Hans-Rolf Conrad, Jurgen Baumeister
  • Patent number: 5285722
    Abstract: A shutheight adjustment system incorporating hydraulic tie rod nut assemblies for dynamically altering the tensioning and compression of the tie rods of a power press. Each hydraulic tie rod nut assembly includes a cylinder with an inner sliding piston threadably engaging the tie rod. A pressurizing mechanism injects pressurized fluid within a chamber formed by the piston and cylinder. By increasing pressure within the chamber of the hydraulic tie rod nut assembly, compression between the press bed and press crown may be increased thereby reducing the press shutheight.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 16, 1992
    Date of Patent: February 15, 1994
    Assignee: The Minster Machine Company
    Inventor: Robert L. Schockman
  • Patent number: 5269163
    Abstract: An apparatus for use with a press which corrects the spacing between an upper die and a lower die when the press is at bottom dead center. The apparatus includes a detector which is operative during each cycle of reciprocal movement of the press slide to detect the spacing between the upper and lower dies, a comparator which compares the detected spacing during each cycle with a prior spacing, an axially expansible/contractible piezoelectric actuator mounted on the press so that its axial length affects the spacing between the upper and lower dies when the press is at bottom dead center, and a drive circuit which is responsive to a deviation signal from the comparator to drive the actuator with a high voltage so as to expand or contract its axial length according to the difference between the detected and prior spacing of the dies.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 29, 1992
    Date of Patent: December 14, 1993
    Assignee: AIDA Engineering Ltd.
    Inventors: Takashi Yagi, Shozo Imanishi
  • Patent number: 5259304
    Abstract: A carousel trash compactor for selectively sorting and recycling multi-component refuse. The carousel includes a turntable mounted in the lower portion of the housing and supporting refuse bins rotatable with the turntable to position a selected bin in a refuse receiving position or a refuse compaction position. In the housing upper portion, a stationary compactor mechanism is positioned for compacting refuse in a bin therebeneath. A lid closes an opening in the top of the housing over the refuse-receiving position. A receptacle retrieving subassembly mounted in the upper portion of the housing facilitates removal of a full receptacle from the housing. Automatic control devices are provided for selectively rotating the turntable and bins, for weighing each bin, for compacting the refuse and for extricating the filled bins from the housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 31, 1992
    Date of Patent: November 9, 1993
    Inventor: Mark A. Roberts
  • Patent number: 5257577
    Abstract: An apparatus which collects recyclable refuse in sorted compartments. Through either automatic sensors or through an operator panel, the apparatus determines the contents of the refuse and directs it to the proper compartment or container. In this manner, recyclable material such as aluminum cans, glass bottles, plastics, etc. are easily sorted to encourage the recycling of this material. Further, periodically, the refuse within the compartments are compacted and disinfected to reduce handling requirements and odors.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 23, 1992
    Date of Patent: November 2, 1993
    Inventor: Melvin D. Clark
  • Patent number: 5253572
    Abstract: A press includes a reciprocation unit having a crank structure which is driven in horizontal reciprocation by an associated press drive. A motion direction shifting unit having a link structure is coupled to the reciprocation unit a ram so as to reciprocate the ram vertically between an upper position and a lower rest position in response to the horizontal reciprocation of the reciprocation unit, such that the ram remains in a state of substantial rest with respect to the shifting unit for a predetermined period of time upon reaching the lower position. A control unit controls a hydraulic fluid supply system to cause a pressure applying device to apply a controlled press forming force to the ram when a sensor detects that the ram is in the rest state.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 11, 1992
    Date of Patent: October 19, 1993
    Assignee: Aida Engineering, Ltd.
    Inventors: Tadayoshi Uehara, Toshio Suzuki
  • Patent number: 5251545
    Abstract: A pellet mill (1) is provided with a control unit with the help of which a desired value of press roll slippage, e.g. zero or a pre-selectable peak value can be maintained. For this purpose, the pellet mill (1) comprises a first measuring unit (27, 28) for measuring the circumferential speed of the perforated die (8) as well as a second measuring unit (23, 24) for measuring the circumferential speed of the press rolls (11, 12). In a comparator (30, 31), the two circumferential speeds are compared and on exceeding a pre-selectable peak value for the difference of the two measured values, a slip signal is created by means of which the mill drive, and/or the supply of basic material to be formed is influenced in such a manner that the slippage will be prevented.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 29, 1992
    Date of Patent: October 12, 1993
    Assignee: Buhler AG
    Inventor: Willi Wetzel
  • Patent number: 5239919
    Abstract: A baler for recyclable materials and any other materials. The baler includes a power unit. An operator console on a deck at a front of a hopper, which provides for operator observation and operation through a high tech control system. Material is fed into the hopper, such as by a conveyor. A compression chamber under the hopper and a bale chamber is at a forward end of the baler for baling of the materials and subsequent discharge by an ejection ram across a bale run-out table for later disposition. A control system provides the capability of automatic control for the baler, as well as diagnostic assistance when necessary. The baler is also the primary building block for a completely automated municipal recycling facility (MRF). The baler can bale such materials as corrugated cardboard, news print, magazines, computer paper, flattened cans, round cans, plastic bottles, scrap aluminum, scrap copper, aluminum radiators, as well as any other miscellaneous materials required for baling on a real time basis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 10, 1991
    Date of Patent: August 31, 1993
    Assignee: Harris Waste Management Group, Inc.
    Inventors: Wayne Maki, Forrest Wildes, Chris A. Jefferson
  • Patent number: 5231922
    Abstract: A process for controlling a press for the extraction of juice from agricultural products, in which the pressing stroke of a pressing cycle is ended at the earliest when the maximum average juice output occurs. This process can be performed using a juice discharge arrangement of a press in which is connected a flowmeter as a sensor, which in turn is connected to a device controlling the drive elements of the press.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 4, 1992
    Date of Patent: August 3, 1993
    Assignee: Bucher-Guyer AG Maschinenfabrik
    Inventor: Eduard Hartmann
  • Patent number: 5231923
    Abstract: A press apparatus for use in manufacture of a liquid crystal panel presses upper and lower glass substrates placed between a pressure-exerting plate and a pressure-receiving plate while a seal located around the glass substrates is being heated and melted. The pressure-exerting plate is supported by a pressure-transmitting plate through three load cells. The pressure-transmitting plate presses the pressure-exerting plate against the pressure-receiving plate through the load cells and thereby presses the glass substrates uniformly. When a difference between the detection values of the load cells exceeds a predetermined value, it is determined that the glass substrates are not being pressed uniformly and the pressing operations thus stopped.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 22, 1992
    Date of Patent: August 3, 1993
    Assignee: Sintogokio Ltd.
    Inventors: Kazuhiro Ohta, Shoji Uchimura, Sigeyuki Takagi, Kyoji Furukawa
  • Patent number: 5226359
    Abstract: An adjustable bale size indicator for a baler which forms cylindrical bales comprising a first indicator member mounted for pivotal movement on the baler and having a bale diameter indicia exposed forwardly of the baler. The first indicator member is attached to the belt tension mechanism and moves pivotally in response to increasing bale diameter. A second indicator member having a shield indicator is adjustably attached to the first indicator member the pointer indicating the maximum bale size position on the bale diameter indicia. A full bale switch mounts adjacent to the second indicator member. The second indicator member contains a flag to change the state of the switch when the bale size reaches a bale diameter equal to that set on the bale diameter indicia by the shield indicator. The change in state of the full bale switch generates a signal to the operator indicating the bale has reached the desired diameter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 10, 1992
    Date of Patent: July 13, 1993
    Assignee: Vermeer Manufacturing Company
    Inventor: Scott A. Rempe
  • Patent number: 5218900
    Abstract: A refuse compactor includes a frame enclosing a compaction ram for compacting waste deposited into a container. A safety chute, having a magnet, is detachably mounted to the frame via pivots and notches. A magnet sensing switch wired into the compactor's control circuit interacts with the magnet on the safety chute to prevent operation of the refuse compactor when the safety chute is misaligned or absent. A ring bolt, collar, spring and washer are mounted within the frame. A plunger on a contact switch wired into the compactor's control circuit touches the washer. The contact switch interacts with the washer on the ring bolt to prevent operation of the refuse compactor when a predetermined amount of weight is placed on the safety chute. Deflection of the spring moves the washer toward the spring, breaking contact between the washer and plunger, opening the contact switch and immediately disabling the compactor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 9, 1992
    Date of Patent: June 15, 1993
    Assignee: American Wyott Corporation
    Inventor: James D. Elliott
  • Patent number: 5215008
    Abstract: A paper test calendering machine is constructed with a pair of opposed guide rolls about which a web of paper or the like travels. A pair of opening an closing nip rolls are operable to exert pressure on the traveling web. A sensing device is operable to detect a deviation in the smooth web and to then activate an element to relieve the pressure on the web momentarily as the deviation passes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 24, 1991
    Date of Patent: June 1, 1993
    Inventors: Ilkka K. Kartovaara, Erkka E. J. Valtonen
  • Patent number: 5207154
    Abstract: Process and apparatus for the control and the adjustment of a press during a juice extraction operating having at least one pressure increase sequence and measuring and comparing to a predetermined value the rate or the amount of liquid extracted before, during or after the pressing, or the partially pressed materials to be pressed remaining in the press after the pressing, and then using the resulting value of the difference of the rates or the amounts of extracted liquid and the value of the expected rates or amounts or the amount of materials to be pressed remaining in the press, if applicable, partially pressed, to begin, continue, interrupt, modify or complete the process of extracting the juice. The process is at least partially programmed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 15, 1991
    Date of Patent: May 4, 1993
    Assignee: Constructions Meca-Metalliques Chalonnaises S.A.
    Inventor: Jean Bonnet
  • Patent number: 5193452
    Abstract: The upper and lower frames of a folding press include a deflector capable of producing a deflection of at least one portion of a press member. A comparison device is provided which includes two longitudinal bars arranged, respectively, in longitudinal housings of each of the upper and lower frames. One of the ends of each of the bars is secured to its respective housing, the other end of each of the bars being free to move longitudinally in the housings and being connected to a measuring device respectively fixed to each of the upper and lower frames, so as to measure the respective movements of the other ends of the bars in their respective housings in response to any deflection of the upper and lower frames. The comparison device is arranged for controlling the deflector to compensate for any difference in deflection of the frames.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 10, 1991
    Date of Patent: March 16, 1993
    Inventor: Willem Dieperink
  • Patent number: 5184548
    Abstract: An apparatus to include a top plate and base plate, with a press plate reciprocatably mounted between the top plate and base plate to crush and deform various containers for disposal and recycling. The use of pivotal link members operative through an actuator rod directed medially of the link members at junctions thereof is directed for rotation to effect reciprocation of the press plate. The invention is arranged to further include drain apertures directed through the base plate. A modified aspect of the invention includes a capture plate positioned between the press plate and base plate and spring biased toward the top plate to secure cans therebetween. An underlying drawer is arranged to receive fluid from the cans, with a pesticide delivery and dispensing container arranged and mounted to the drawer for dispensing a pesticide and fungicide fluid into the drawer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 8, 1992
    Date of Patent: February 9, 1993
    Inventor: Scott R. Figi
  • Patent number: 5184547
    Abstract: The invention concerns equipment for compacting compressible wastes such as paperboard, cardboard, wood wastes, household trash or the like and is designed in such a way to include a rotating drum and plunger combination so that the trash is moved at equal spacings through a segmented housing and into a receptacle or the like. During conveyance the conveyed trash does not give off foul odors.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 25, 1991
    Date of Patent: February 9, 1993
    Inventor: Heinz Bergmann