Abstract: A load distributing deck insert for supporting an object above the surface of a deck. The load distributing deck insert may include a body, a saddle, and a load receiving section. The load distributing deck insert may avoid contacting an upper surface of the adjacent deck boards.

Abstract: A method and apparatus. The apparatus comprises a first portion of a tool and a second portion of the tool. The first portion of the tool has a first surface. The first surface has a shape that is complementary to a first portion of a part. The second portion has at least one of a second surface configured to be recessed from a second portion of the part or a hollow portion.

Abstract: A measurement instrument for joint surgery may relatively move a first bone and a second bone, which are connected by soft tissue at a joint, in directions other than directions in which these bones are separated from each other, and measure the stability of a connection state between these bones. A housing may be fixed to a first bone. A slider may slide relative to the housing, and abut against a second bone. A position display portion displays the position of the slider relative to the housing. A measurement instrument for joint surgery relatively moves the second bone relative to the first bone along a joint face by the slider sliding relative to the housing. The stability of a state of connection between the first bone and the second bone is measured based on the position of the slider relative to the housing displayed by the position display portion.

Abstract: A system which calculates the relative posture or the relative position and posture between a first object and a second object. This invention provides an object posture calculation system including a first object and a second object contactable at three contact points, a driving unit which brings the first object and the second object into contact with each other, a force measuring unit which measures a force acting between the first object and the second object, and an object posture calculation unit which calculates the relative posture or the relative position and posture between the first object and the second object on the basis of the force measured by the force measuring unit when the first object and the second object come into contact with each other at the three contact points.

Abstract: A system and method for automatic reading skin for an allergy to a substance, includes a consumer electronics device that acquires images of skin; a consumable member having a surface divided into elementary areas, each elementary area with a different possible allergenic substance; and a palette that, when applied against each elementary area brings the depositing part into contact with the skin thereby depositing the corresponding possible allergenic substance on or under the skin, where an image processing operation of the image of the skin taken by the consumer electronics device localizes the location that each depositing part has deposited the possible allergenic substance during the application and provides information in relation with a sensitivity of the skin, as indicated by a visible reaction, to the possible allergenic substance at each localized location.

Abstract: There is described a device for measuring deformations (10) on surfaces endowed with a frame (11) associated to fastening means (20) of the device (10) on the surfaces, the device (10) further comprising, at least a pair of guides (31, 32) associated longitudinally to an inner portion (12) of the frame (11) and spaced apart parallel to each other, and a sliding support (40) perpendicularly associated to the guides (31, 32); the sliding support (40) comprising a transversal groove (41) on which there is disposed a mobile base (42) that receives a measuring element (50).

Abstract: A book alignment device engages a back side of objects that are misaligned on a plane and applies a transverse force against the back side of the objects to align the objects on the plane. The device aligns the separate, misaligned objects into a single aligned set of objects. In this manner, the objects are not only aligned, but compacted into a stronger, unitary configuration that forms a single set of objects. An alignment rod forms an elongated member having a substantially straight configuration and a pair of free ends. The alignment rod engages a back side of the objects to pull them forward into alignment. A pair of lateral bars extend from the free ends of the alignment rod. The lateral bars have a distal end that perpendicularly joins the free ends of the alignment rod, and a proximal end that enables manipulation of the alignment rod.

Abstract: The apparatus of measuring a workpiece according to the present disclosure includes a base, a measuring member, an upper arm member, a lower arm member, a first pin and a second pin, wherein the upper arm member includes an upper rotation frame and the lower arm member includes a lower rotation frame. When the first pin is moved to disconnect the upper rotation frame from the lower rotation frame, the upper rotation frame is rotatable. When the second pin is moved to lock the lower rotation frame to the measuring member, the lower rotation frame is free of rotation. When the first pin is moved to connect the upper rotation frame and the lower rotation frame with each other and when the second pin is moved to unlock the lower rotation frame from the measuring member, the lower rotation frame is rotatable with the upper rotation frame.

Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention include a calibration and measurement system designed primarily for use in the rapid evaluation and characterization of open or visible wounds in patients. The invention in a preferred embodiment comprises a set of colored concentric rings, typically constructed of paper or synthetic paper. The practitioner removes only as many rings, from the center outward, until the entire wound is visible within the open aperture at the center of the remaining rings. The area dimensions of the wound are then read out from the size of the inner remaining ring. Photography optionally records the wound appearance and size. A related system is developed for linear dimensioning of wounds. This embodiment is also designed to standardize the color scheme for accurate photography wound description. The color scheme is also applicable to a linear device to accurately describe wound size. Embodiments of the invention are also useful in forensic and accident investigations.

Abstract: A method to fixture and inspect contoured aerodynamic surfaces of a part, such as an engine inlet lip skin, is provided. A controlled preload is applied to one or more discrete locations along the contoured surface to constrain the lip skin at the locations the lip skin would be constrained upon assembly on the airplane. The contoured surfaces are then inspected to dimensional requirements. The controlled preload can be applied by use of magnets or elastic bumpers.

Abstract: A method for manufacturing an end effector assembly is provided. The method includes grasping a gap-setting gauge between first and second jaw members moveable relative to one another about a pivot between a first, spaced-apart position and a second position proximate tissue and setting the first and second jaw members such that in the approximated position the jaw members cooperate to define a gap distance between the jaw members equivalent to the thickness of the gap-setting gauge such that when positioning tissue between the jaw members full approximation of the jaws is limited to the gap distance.

Abstract: A vision apparatus may include a first longitudinal base member, a second longitudinal base member which substantially mirrors the first longitudinal base member, a traverse member to connect the first and second longitudinal base member, a pointer member being positioned on the traverse member. The longitudinal base member may include a inclined tower surface, and the longitudinal base member may include a mounting post. The mounting post may cooperate with a rail, and the pointer member may be detachably connected to the traverse member. The first longitudinal base member may include a tower member to cooperate with the rail member, and the vision apparatus may include a tower member to connect the longitudinal base member and the traverse member. The tower member may be detachably connected.

Abstract: A surface profile measurement probe comprising two spaced apart points 20 for contacting a convex surface to be measured and a straight edge or surface 22 moveable relative to the two points to enable the straight edge to be brought into contact with a convex surface contacted by the two points. A tip 10 protrudes from and is moveably mounted relative to the straight edge or surface for measuring the profile of a surface contacted by the straight edge.

Abstract: Described are various embodiments of an apparatus for evaluating the inner dimension of an opening within a body surface, for example, in the context of an assembly wherein one or more components are to be installed within a receiving body in which this opening is defined.

Abstract: To provide a measuring instrument having improved usability and viewability. A measuring instrument includes a touch panel display unit that receives an external input performed by physical contact and has a display function. In the touch panel display unit, a plurality of operation icons that are used to perform a complicated input operation as well as a measurement result are displayed. It is possible to provide a measuring instrument that is superior in terms of the usability and viewability. For example, a measurement mode can be selected by selecting and touching one of the plurality of operation icons displayed in the touch panel display unit.

Abstract: A process chamber (5) has an interior space (39). In the interior space (39), there is a receiving region (15) for workplaces (3). The process chamber (5) has an opening (12, 14) for the entry and exit of workplaces (3). The process chamber includes an arrangement (17, 19, 25, 29, 33, 37, 35) for injecting gaseous fluid into the interior space (39), The arrangement for injecting gaseous fluid has at least one nozzle (17, 19) for producing a fluid flow curtain (21, 23) between the opening (12, 14) and the receiving region (15) for workplaces (3).

Abstract: A vision apparatus may include a first longitudinal base member, a second longitudinal base member which substantially mirrors the first longitudinal base member, a traverse member to connect the first and second longitudinal base member, a pointer member being positioned on the traverse member. The longitudinal base member may include a inclined tower surface, and the longitudinal base member may include a mounting post. The mounting post may cooperate with a rail, and the pointer member may be detachably connected to the traverse member. The first longitudinal base member may include a tower member to cooperate with the rail member, and the vision apparatus may include a tower member to connect the longitudinal base member and the traverse member. The tower member may be detachably connected.

Abstract: The invention refers to a family of fastening devices including at least two fastening elements (101, 121), each one of said elements including a shaped end portion (105), a frontal face (106) of the shaped end portion (105) having a cavity (107) extending as far as a bottom (108), the fastening elements having different maximum grips (Gmax), the family being configured so that the distance (109?) between the bottom (108) of the cavity (107) and the limit (170) between the body and the shaped end portion is identical for all the fastening elements (101, 121). The invention refers moreover to a unit (100) including such a family of fastening devices and a check gauge (150), as well as a method for checking of the choice of the length of a fastening element (101, 121), by means of the check gauge (150).

Abstract: A key blank selector has a base, a template and a clamp. The base defines a chamber and a platform having a recess communicating with the chamber. The template is soft and pliable corresponds to and is detachably mounted in the recess of the platform. The clamp is detachably mounted around the platform of the base to hold and position the template in the recess and has an opening formed corresponding to the chamber of the base. A mother key is positioned perpendicularly on and force applied to pierce through the template and form a figure corresponding to a cross sectional profile of the mother key in the template; therefore, facilitating key blank selection and preventing misjudgment.

Abstract: Devices and methods wherein an adapter is used to attach an electromagnetic image guidance component to a medical device such that an electromagnetic image guidance system may be used to track the location of the medical device within the body of a human or animal subject.

Abstract: An invertible golf putting accessory having a body with an upper surface, a lower surface and a plurality of sides. Two of the sides converge towards each other to form an apex and one of the sides is removably connectable to a face of a putter by magnetic and/or adhesive material. The body includes an aperture that is configured to receive a golf ball positioned therein. The accessory is attached to the face of a putter so that a portion of the golf ball can extend above the upper surface and another portion can extend below the lower surface. In use, a golf ball is pulled back and automatically released in a desired direction as the user extends the foreswing beyond the constraints of the aperture. The body also includes indicia on one or more of the surfaces. The indicia may be used to assist in sighting the putter.

Abstract: The present invention is a calibration and measurement system designed primarily for use in the rapid evaluation and characterization of open or visible wounds in patients. The invention in a preferred embodiment comprises a set of colored concentric rings, constructed of paper or synthetic material. The practitioner removes only as many rings, from the center outward, until the entire wound is visible within the open aperture at the center of the remaining rings. The area dimensions of the wound are then read out from the size of the inner remaining ring. Photography optionally records the wound appearance and size. A related system is developed for linear dimensioning of wounds. This invention is also designed to standardize the color scheme for accurate photography wound description. This color scheme is also applicable to a linear device to accurately describe wound size. The invention is also useful in forensic and accident investigations.

Abstract: A movable member position-sensing device includes a sensor and a biasing member in operable communication with both the sensor and a movable member configured to communicate a parameter to the sensor indicative of a position of the movable member.

Abstract: A vision apparatus may include a first longitudinal base member, a second longitudinal base member which substantially mirrors the first longitudinal base member, a traverse member to connect the first and second longitudinal base member, a pointer member being positioned on the traverse member. The longitudinal base member may include a inclined tower surface, and the longitudinal base member may include a mounting post. The mounting post may cooperate with a rail, and the pointer member may be detachably connected to the traverse member. The first longitudinal base member may include a tower member to cooperate with the rail member, and the vision apparatus may include a tower member to connect the longitudinal base member and the traverse member. The tower member may be detachably connected.

Abstract: A benchmark marking tool includes a marking plate having an upper surface formed in a flat shape so as to mark a benchmark on the upper surface, a stud extending from a back surface of the upper surface of the marking plate and buried in a structure such as a floor of a building to fix the marking plate, and an outer peripheral flange provided around the marking plate and buried in a coating layer applied to the structure. The marking plate is provided such that the upper surface is located to be flush with or below an upper surface of the coating layer formed on the structure when the marking plate is located in the structure of the building.

Abstract: A transient clearance measurement apparatus for determining a minimum clearance between stationary and rotating components includes: at least one rub pin secured to the stationary component and projecting toward a surface of the rotating component. The at least one rub pin has one or more embedded wires completing an electrical circuit, such that, in use, when the at least one rub pin is rubbed by the surface of the rotating component, the electrical circuit is broken.

Abstract: A fixture for rating mail pieces for determination of postage payments includes a generally planar member. The member has formed therein a recess defined at least partially by a floor and at least four side walls. The recess has at least some dimensions that correspond in magnitude to dimensions used to define a first postal category of mail pieces. A second, smaller recess may be nested inside the first recess to indicate the dimensions for another category of mail pieces.

Abstract: There is described a method of manufacturing a device to be used with a computer-aided surgery system, a method of calibrating the device, and the device itself. After fabrication, the device is measured to obtain true parameters thereof. The true parameters are stored on a storage medium associated with the device and include measurement data of high precision relating to dimensions of the device as well as to relative positioning of a tracker on the device with respect to the device. The true parameters are entered into the system and when the tracker is located in the 3D environment, the device can then be located in the 3D environment with a high degree of precision using the true parameters.

Abstract: A device and method to sort high security lock pins to characterize their length, wedge direction, and slot position comprises a lock pin decoding body containing lock pin cavities that receive high security lock pins and orient them in a uniform way by fitting a tab on the upper end of the lock pins in a notch, thereby revealing whether the lock pins have a slot positioned in the “left”, “center” or “right” positions, which can be read from indicia on the lock pin decoding body, and further revealing if the lock pins have a “fore” or “aft” facing wedge, which can also be read from indicia on the lock pin decoding body.

Abstract: A clothes iron comprising a sole plate (2) and a handle (1), characterized in that said handle (1) comprises a first strain gauge (3) arranged in a direction approximately parallel to the plane defined by the sole plate (2) and a second strain gauge (4) arranged in a direction forming an acute angle with the plane defined by the sole plate (2), said angle being open toward the front of the iron, in such a way that any movement of the iron activates at least one of said strain gauges (3, 4).

Abstract: The invention relates to a method for determining the co-ordinates of a workpiece (9). According to said method: a first co-ordinate system, which has a fixed position in relation to the workpiece (9), is defined; first co-ordinates of the workpiece (9) are measured using a first co-ordinate measuring device (3); second co-ordinates of the workpiece (9) are measured using a second co-ordinate measuring device (5); and a common set of co-ordinates is generated from the first co-ordinates and the second co-ordinates in the first co-ordinate system or in a second co-ordinate system, which has a fixed position in relation to the workpiece (9). The method can be used in particular to determine co-ordinates of a plurality of workpieces (9) during and/or after the production and/or processing of the workpieces (9).

Abstract: A device (100), for the checking and measurement of the journal bearing clearance between the outer bearing on the rudder shaft (25) of a rudder for water-borne craft and the inner bearing (32) on the rudder trunk (20) corresponding with the outer bearing (31), is characterized by a measurement rail (70) made of a springy elastic material having internal stiffness, which can be introduced by means of a guide rail (60), provided with a grip-type handle (61), into the gap between the outer bearing and the inner bearing and hence into the clearance measurement region, with a measurement probe (80) located at its free end (70a) for the clearance width measurement, wherein the measurement rail (70) with the measurement probe (80) with a prescribed thickness (a) are exchanged for measurement rails with measurement probes with other thicknesses until the achievement of an agreement of the clearance width with the thickness of a measurement rail (70) with the measurement probe (80).

Abstract: Determination of the actual position of the rotation axis of a transportation mechanism relative to a reference axis, in particular relative to gravity, is performed with at least one inclination sensor mounted to the transportation mechanism having at least one measurement axis, and comprises the measurement of the inclination of at least the one inclination sensor along the at least one measurement axis in a first rotation position of the transportation mechanism, and the measurement of the inclination of the at least one inclination sensor along the at least one measurement axis in a second rotation position. The actual position of the rotation axis of the transportation mechanism may be determined from the measurement values of the inclination sensor and the angular separation between the rotation positions. The process is suitable in particular for a process to align the rotation axis of a transportation mechanism and for a process for replacing a transportation mechanism.

Abstract: A digital indicator 1 includes a body case (10), a spindle (30) provided to the body case (10), the spindle (30) being movable in an axial direction, a displacement detector (40) that detects a moving amount of the spindle (30), and a digital display (50) that digitally displays the moving amount detected by the displacement detector (40). The display surface of the digital display (50) is arranged on the body case (10) in an attitude substantially orthogonal to the moving direction of the spindle (30) and deviated from the moving axis of the spindle (30).

Abstract: A combination golf ball gauge and divot repair device is disclosed. The device includes a gauge portion and a divot tool portion. The gauge portion of the device may be used to assist a golfer in determining whether a golf ball has become out of round and, thereby, unsuitable for play. The divot tool portion may be used to repair divots left by golf balls on putting greens, in accordance with golf etiquette. The combination of the golf ball gauge portion and divot tool portion may provide for a convenient all-in-one tool for golfers.

Abstract: The present invention provides a machine tool with a workpiece measuring instrument which prevents the workpiece measuring instrument from being affected by chips or cutting heat during non-machining, while enabling a workpiece W to be measured near a machining position. A machine tool has a bed 9 and a cover 3 surrounding a machining area R. Workpiece supporting means 6, machining means 7, and workpiece measuring instrument 31 are provided in the machining area R. Position switching means 32 is provided which moves the workpiece measuring instrument 31 between a position inside the machining area R and a storage position B outside the machining area R. The workpiece supporting means 6 is movable in a lateral direction. The workpiece measuring instrument 31 is movable forward and backward so as to freely switch its position, and measures the workpiece W.

Abstract: An apparatus for assessing a position of an anchorage of a child restraint anchorage system. The apparatus includes a base, a first slide assembly, and a second slide assembly. The first slide assembly is movably disposed on the base for engaging a seat back. The second slide assembly is movably disposed on the base and includes a measurement tool for measuring the position of an anchorage.

Abstract: Method and apparatus of easily controlling the Z-position of the probe used in a microprobe analyzer. The apparatus has: (A) a holder, (B) a reference body having a reference surface that is at the same height as a surface of a sample, the reference body being placed on or in the holder, (C) a probe-positioning device for bringing the probe into contact with the reference surface, (D) a controller for controlling motion of the probe-positioning device in the Z-direction, (E) position-measuring apparatus for measuring the Z-coordinate of the probe at which it is in contact with the reference surface, (F) a memory for storing a positional coordinate outputted by the position-measuring apparatus, and (G) probe contact detection apparatus for detecting that the probe is in contact with the reference surface.

Abstract: A fiber stacking or aligning apparatus is described. In an embodiment, the apparatus includes a first component and a second component. The first component is configured to permit the introduction of a plurality of fibers into an opening that defines a through hole through the first component. The second component is rotatably coupled to the first component, wherein the second component is configured to permit the introduction of the plurality of fibers that have passed through the through hole into an area in the second component that includes an alignment surface which limits the travel of the plurality of fibers so as to align the plurality of fibers, wherein the second component is further configured to be rotated away from the aligned plurality of fibers to expose the aligned plurality of fibers without disturbing them.

Abstract: In a calibration method for a surface texture measuring instrument which measures a surface of a workpiece and includes an arm that is supported to be swingable around a base point thereof and is provided with a contact point at an end for scanning the workpiece surface, the calibration method includes a measurement step for measuring a calibration gauge of which cross section contains a part of a substantially perfect circle, an assignment step for assigning the detection results, which are obtained in the measurement step, in an evaluation formula based on a circle equation in which the center coordinates of the calibration gauge are (xc, zc) and the radius is “r”, and a calibration step for calibrating each parameter based on the evaluation formula obtained in the assignment step.

Abstract: An integrated display including a plurality of analog gauges concentrically arranged about a common center. Each analog gauge includes a pointer indicating a value of a parameter represented by the analog gauge. The integrated display is optionally semi-transparent and superimposed over a background view in a computer game, simulation, or other software application. The pointer and analog gauge may move relative to each other, or one may be fixed at an easily recognizable location while the other moves to indicate a current value of a parameter. This display can also be used on an electronic device to indicate a plurality of independent parameters in a minimal space.

Abstract: A device for measuring alignment of a golf club is provided, and allows measurement of the lie angle and loft angle simultaneously. The strike face of the club is placed against an abutment member that is fixed to a base member, and held in place with a clamping member. An alignment member is coupled to the base member and spaced from the clamping member in generally opposing relation thereto. The alignment member is movable with respect to the clamping member to receive the golf club shaft in a cradle.

Abstract: A reflective strain gauge includes an holographically-formed polymer dispersed liquid crystal (H-PDLC) film comprising layers of liquid crystal (LC) droplets in a matrix polymer, the H-PDLC film having a reflection or transmission grating capable of reflecting or transmitting light of a selected wavelength, and means for adhering the film to a surface of a workpiece for monitoring the strain at said surface. A change in the nature of the reflected light is an indication of strain. Also included is a polarizing material having an holographically-formed polymer dispersed liquid crystal (H-PDLC) film comprising layers of liquid crystal (LC) droplets in a matrix polymer, the H-PDLC film having a reflection grating capable of reflecting light of a selected wavelength, wherein the reflection grating of the H-PDLC film is oriented, such that the refractive index parallel to said axis of orientation (ne) is greater than the refractive index perpendicular to said axis (no).

Abstract: An assembly that can be used to create a measurable point from the top of a three dimensional object to the bottom of a three dimensional object in a three dimensional plane.

Abstract: To provide a measuring apparatus of positions and postures of a machine for correcting positions and postures of an end effecter by means of an actuator, and an error correcting method for correcting errors thereof. At least three universal joint fixing members 2 are attached onto a base 1 that comprises a measuring reference; steel balls 3 are fixed to the respective universal joint fixing members 2 as universal joints; a steel ball 5 is fixed to a universal joint fixing member 9 as a universal joint; a universal joint fixing member 4 is attached to an object to be measured 7 that is supported by means of another member; and a measuring device 6 is attached to between the steel balls B3 and the steel ball 5. By using such a measuring apparatus, geometrical errors of a mechanism in a machine are estimated and corrected based on measured values on positions and postures of the end effecter.

Abstract: The milling machine tool holder or chuck is used to support a spindle on a chuck axis through which a crossbar is transversely and slideably mounted. First and second ends of the crossbar adjustably support a mirror and a dial indicator, respectively, so a machine operator can see a dial face of the dial indicator that is not visible and facing away from the operator. The crossbar has a bend which enables the dial indicator to be articulated to conveniently measure features near the chuck axis without interference between the spindle and the dial indicator. The dial indicator is securely mounted to a clamp adapter which is mounted to the second end. A wedge-shaped slot in the adapter is configured to receive and secure one of a plurality of sizes of dial indicators.

Abstract: A differential gear housing includes grooves into which retaining rings are fitted which engage on races of tapered roller bearings. The width of the securing rings is determined in accordance with the desired tooth flank clearance between a ring gear and a bevel drive pinion and with a desired prestress in the tapered roller bearings. Preliminary to selecting the retaining rings, devices are used which engage with a tensioning bush in the grooves and have a pressure member movable axially inside the tensioning bush and supported on the respective tapered roller bearing race. The pressure member is then suitably moved in relation to the tensioning bush to a position where the desired prestress and tooth flank clearance have been reached. The desired retaining ring axial width can then be read off from the device followed by selection and insertion of the desired retaining rings.

Abstract: A sizing device or gauge is provided for measuring whether an article such as a package for delivery has dimensions that lie within predetermined values of length, width and volume. The sizing device is formed by a receptacle that has a flat rectangular base wall which defines predetermined maximum values of length and width for the item, and a pair of adjacent upstanding side walls portions of which decrease in height away from adjoining ends of the walls, the height decrease being in inverse relation to the square of a respective one of the maximum height and width values. The device is useful for example in determining whether items meet the specifications of a delivery service segregating items into different categories.

Abstract: The invention relates to an arrangement (1) for checking the quality of balls (2) in respect of their diameter (D) and any damage to their periphery (3), in particular intended for checking golf balls (2). A diameter gauge device (4) extending along at least part of the diameter (D) of an aforementioned ball is situated at a distance from a bottom support (5) so arranged as to support a ball (2) accommodated in the arrangement (1) for checking.

Abstract: A router and other cutting tools with a fixed center such as drills, shapers, milling machines, etc., used for cutting wood, metal or other materials, is provided with a fence mechanism for either a table or the base of a portable tool, for rapid and easy settings of the fence with respect to the center of the cutting tool. This is accomplished by a pivot mounting of the fence on a table or on a portable tool base, with respect to a block pivoted to the table or tool base, wherein the center of the pivot for the block and the center for the pivot for the fence are on opposite sides of the cutting tool and located on a line which passes through the tool center and the respective pivot locations. The desired spacing of the fence to the tool can be achieved using accurate spacers between the fence and the block, even with the tool being mounted in place.