Having Indicator Of Probe Position Or Movement Patents (Class 33/555)
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Patent number: 6477783Abstract: An angle measuring device for use in a gyratory compactor. The device is a self-contained unit which is placed in the bottom of the mold and the asphalt or other material being compacted is placed on top of it. Inside the device is a carrier which has two vertically aligned probes which project out from it and touch the walls of the mold. One probe is fixed to the carrier; the other can move independently of the carrier. The difference in extension between the two probes is related to the angle of compaction.Type: GrantFiled: September 19, 2000Date of Patent: November 12, 2002Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of TransportationInventors: Thomas Philip Harman, Paul Andrew Fuchs, Jr., Thomas Emil Brovold
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Publication number: 20020152625Abstract: A measuring system including a linear gauge 8 is placed on a vibration isolation table 7, and this system assembly is placed in a temperature controllable, constant-temperature chamber. A specimen table 16, which has a centrally-disposed circular protrusion 16C of a diameter sufficiently smaller than a specimen under measurement, is mounted on a surface plate 2 of a linear gauge 8. The position of a measuring element 1 is measured when it is brought into contact with the centrally-disposed circular protrusion 16C, and the position of the measuring element 1 is measured when it is brought into contact with the specimen placed on the specimen table. The measured values are used to determine the thickness of the specimen.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 28, 2002Publication date: October 24, 2002Inventors: Jun-Ichi Kushibiki, Mototaka Arakawa, Ryoichi Okabe
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Patent number: 6425189Abstract: A probe tip locator for, and method of, use in determining a location of a probe tip relative to the probe tip locator comprising sets of discrete location markers in which numbers and positions of the location markers in each of the sets are employable uniquely to identify corresponding specific locations on the probe tip locator, the sets being distributed about the probe tip locator to avoid unbalanced partial encroachments into both sides of a scanpath of the probe tip by location markers in sets normally adjacent the scanpath thereby to prevent an erroneous determination of location caused by unbalanced partial encroachments of the location markers into both sides of the scanpath as the probe tip traverses the scanpath.Type: GrantFiled: April 20, 2000Date of Patent: July 30, 2002Assignee: Agere Systems Guardian Corp.Inventors: Jeffrey B. Bindell, Erik C. Houge, Larry E. Plew, Frederick A. Stevie
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Publication number: 20020083609Abstract: A method and an apparatus for measuring linearity in a reproduction appliance includes an operating carriage bearing a scanning or recording device. The operating carriage is able to be moved in discrete steps in a given direction along a straight line. The operating carriage is successively moved along partial segments of the line. Each of the partial segments is longer than a travel corresponding to one of the steps and is shorter than the entire length of the line. The partial segments each have an exactly defined length defined by an additional carriage moveable along the given direction. The number of steps needed for each partial segment are counted and deviations between values for a travel of the operating carriage resulting from the partial segment and values for the travel of the operating carriage resulting from counting the steps are calculated.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 4, 2001Publication date: July 4, 2002Inventors: Peter Melzer, Volker Haushahn, Andre Wirtz
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Publication number: 20020083608Abstract: The disclosed tools and method perform measurements of bore parallelism and location in mating machine parts.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 10, 2001Publication date: July 4, 2002Inventor: Joseph Stephens
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Patent number: 6408532Abstract: A measuring device for measuring the thread start distance of a thread formed on an outer surface of a container finish is provided. The measuring device includes a base having a first surface for receiving a rim of a container finish, a support member, a gauge, and a counterweight to balance the measuring device on the finish. The support member is movably attached to the base and adjacent the first surface. A side surface of the support element is in contact with the container finish. The gauge is attached to the base and a gauge actuator having a roller contact member is operatively associated with the gauge. The gauge actuator measures the distance between the rim of the container finish and a thread start point of the thread of the container finish, S-dimension, as the gauge actuator moves along an upper base line of the thread.Type: GrantFiled: November 1, 2000Date of Patent: June 25, 2002Assignee: The Clorox CompanyInventors: James R. Keys, David L. Shockley
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Patent number: 6397485Abstract: A coordinate positioning machine has an operating module such as a tool or probe (10) mounted for translational motion relative to a table (16) with three degrees of freedom by means of three articulated linkages (18). Each of the linkages is made up of a torsion box (22) which is pivotally mounted to a vertical pillar (20) with one degree of freedom, and a pair of struts (26), each of which is pivotally mounted with two degrees of freedom to the torsion box at one end, and to the operating module at the other. The linkages cooperate to prevent all rotational motion of the operating module, while allowing translation. Motion of the operating module is actuated manually, and the mass thereof is counterbalanced by an articulated counterbalance arm 90 which guides a cable 96 that is in turn connected to a fusee. Displacement of the operating module is measured using scale and readhead encoders (40,50).Type: GrantFiled: July 9, 1999Date of Patent: June 4, 2002Assignee: Renishaw, PLCInventor: David R McMurtry
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Patent number: 6367159Abstract: Method for measuring the surface shape of a thin element such as a silicon wafer measures the surface shapes of one surface and the other surface of the thin element by independently measuring the distance each to one surface and to the other surface of the thin element by rotating or moving the thin element within a single plane and independently moving the first and second measuring means along the first and second guide shafts. Apparatus for measuring the surface shape of the thin element measures the surface shapes of one surface and the other surface of the thin element by rotating or moving the thin element supported within the same plane by a supporting means, and independently measuring the distance each to one surface and to the other surface of the thin element by the first and second measuring means while independently moving the first and second sliders along the first and second guide shafts.Type: GrantFiled: March 30, 1999Date of Patent: April 9, 2002Assignee: Kuroda Precision Industries, Ltd.Inventors: Kaoru Naoi, Kenichi Shindo, Shinju Ito
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Patent number: 6314800Abstract: A micro-geometry measuring device capable of reducing measuring force thereof for avoiding damage on micro-geometry of workpiece surface and measuring at a high-speed is provided. The micro-geometry measuring device has a stylus mechanism having a stylus mechanism provided to an arm and having a stylus body, a measuring force adjusting mechanism for adjusting a measuring force working between the stylus body and the workpiece, a displacement sensor for detecting a position of the arm, and a measuring force controller for controlling the measuring force adjusting mechanism. The stylus mechanism includes a vibrator for resonantly vibrating the stylus body, and a detector for detecting vibration status changing when the stylus body touches the workpiece. The change in vibration of the stylus body vibrated by the vibrator is directly detected by the detector and a signal therefrom is fed back to the measuring force controller to keep constant measuring force working between the stylus body and the workpiece.Type: GrantFiled: December 14, 1999Date of Patent: November 13, 2001Assignee: Mitutoyo CorporationInventor: Kunitoshi Nishimura
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Patent number: 6298572Abstract: A fixture assembly for holding a part to be measured in a specified and elevated orientation and being utilized in combination with an existing coordinate measurement machine. A transportable body is provided having a horizontally arrayed and upwardly facing platform. The coordinate measurement machine is adapted to be arranged in proximity to the transportable body. First, second and third datum blocks are secured upon the upwardly facing platform at first, second and third selected locations. Each of the datum blocks further includes an upwardly facing tapped hole for receiving a measurement target which is capable of being manipulated according to instructions provided by the coordinate measurement machine to define first, second and third datum planes according to a coordinate system defined for the part to be measured. A plurality of individual support units are secured upon the platform at locations specified by the coordinate measurement machine.Type: GrantFiled: January 10, 2000Date of Patent: October 9, 2001Inventor: Brian McAuley
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Patent number: 6272762Abstract: An ovality measurement tool for measurement of ovality of a circumferentially deformable cylindrical element having a cylindrical element support, a sensing element for traversing the circumference of the cylindrical element, which sensing element is movable radially with respect to the cylindrical element, and a readout device for reading the amount of movement of the sensing element as it traverses the circumference of the cylindrical element.Type: GrantFiled: September 15, 1999Date of Patent: August 14, 2001Assignee: Gas Research InstituteInventors: John Arthur Kinast, William Fredrick Rush, Victor Tamosaitis
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Patent number: 6209217Abstract: A surface-following type measuring machine is provided, which is capable of setting the measuring force to a proper value in an efficient and accurate manner without imposing a burden on the operator in exchanging at least one of the stylus and stylus holder according to the surface contour of an object to be measured. A main body is disposed for movement relative to an object to be measured. A measuring arm is supported by the main body for displacement relative thereto, and carries at one end thereof a stylus holder and a stylus in a manner permitting replacement of the stylus holder and the stylus. Displacement of the measuring arm is detected by a displacement detecting device. The measuring force acting upon the measuring arm is adjusted by a measuring force adjusting device. A memory stores a measuring force command value table having a plurality of command values of the measuring force corresponding respectively to combinations of plural kinds of the stylus holder and plural kinds of the stylus.Type: GrantFiled: August 23, 1999Date of Patent: April 3, 2001Assignee: Mitutoyo CorporationInventors: Atsushi Tsuruta, Shuuzou Ueno
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Patent number: 6178653Abstract: A probe tip locator for use in determining the x-axis location and y-axis location of a probe tip of a microscope relative to the locator, the locator comprising a plurality of first reference lines parallel in a first direction, each of the first reference lines representing a predetermined x-axis location of the probe tip; a plurality of sets of parallel encoded bit fields, each one of the sets corresponding to one of the first reference lines; and a plurality of second reference lines parallel in a second direction, each one of the second reference lines intersecting at least one of the first reference lines at an acute angle, such that a scan of a portion of the locator is used to determine the x-axis location and y-axis location of the probe tip relative to the probe tip locator by movement of the probe tip relative to the probe tip locator.Type: GrantFiled: November 20, 1998Date of Patent: January 30, 2001Assignee: Lucent Technologies Inc.Inventors: Joseph Edward Griffith, Charles E. Bryson, III, Jeffrey Bruce Bindell
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Patent number: 6159074Abstract: Disclosed is a caliper assembly for measuring a diameter of a roll received on a roll support of a grinding machine which includes a frame positionable adjacent the roll support and a linear guide connected to the frame. A pair of measuring arms is connected in spaced relation to the linear guide. The linear guide is configured to enable each measuring arm to move relative to the frame and parallel to the longitudinal axis of the linear guide. A linear motor is connected between the frame and the pair of measuring arms. The linear motor is configured to supply to the pair of measuring arms a motive force which causes the pair of measuring arms to move together or apart. If one of the measuring arms contacts a workpiece with a force in excess of a predetermined force, the linear motor terminates supplying motive force thereto.Type: GrantFiled: January 7, 1999Date of Patent: December 12, 2000Inventors: Samuel C. Kube, Albert A. Plekker
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Patent number: 6108924Abstract: An inspection apparatus for inspecting a funnel assembly of a CRT which includes a glass funnel and a glass neck attached to the vertex of the funnel and an inspection method therefor, are provided. The inspection apparatus includes a frame having a support platform for supporting the funnel assembly with the neck directed upwards, a location setting unit for maintaining the funnel at a predetermined reference location on the support platform, a detection unit which is movably installed in the frame in radial direction with respect to the axis of the neck, including a plurality of probes each for contacting the outer surface of the neck to generate a signal, and a controller for controlling a movement of the probes and estimating a geometrical state of the neck with respect to the funnel based on the signal supplied from each of the probes. Thus, a geometrical state of a neck with respect to a funnel can he accurately estimated.Type: GrantFiled: June 16, 1998Date of Patent: August 29, 2000Assignee: Hankuk Electric Glass Co., Ltd.Inventors: Byung Wug Jang, Moon Sun Jeong
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Patent number: 6067720Abstract: A method for determining a torsional structure in the surface roughness of a finished shaft journal includes making a plurality of axial scores on a circumferential strip of the shaft journal, with a high axial measurement point density at different but exactly known circumferential positions as well as with exactly known axial positions. The individual local roughness profiles are printed out in a close sequence with respect to one another corresponding to their positions. The measurement charts are raised or elongated in the radial and axial directions and upset in the circumferential direction. Thus, a topography with multidimensional affinity showing the microstructure of the surface in three dimensions in a diagonal view is obtained. An autocorrelation function is formed from this topography, stochastic elements are eliminated, and a surface topography is obtained that essentially contains only the periodic elements.Type: GrantFiled: September 14, 1998Date of Patent: May 30, 2000Assignee: DaimlerChrysler AGInventors: Robert Heilbronner, Norbert Rau, Michael Seibold
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Patent number: 6029077Abstract: An apparatus for determining the perimeter of an object being scanned comprises a movable arm adapted to follow the surface of an object being scanned as the arm is orbited around the object; the arm having one end being adapted to maintain contact with the surface as the arm is orbited around the object; and an encoder operably connected to the arm for determining the movement of the lever arm at each angular position around the object. An opaque cup is positioned at one end of the lever arm immediately over a point on said surface at which a laser beam impinges on the surface of the object being scanned such that reflection from the surface is retained within the cup.Type: GrantFiled: November 6, 1997Date of Patent: February 22, 2000Assignee: Imaging Diagnostic Systems, Inc.Inventors: Robert H. Wake, Richard J. Grable, David P. Rohler
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Patent number: 6021580Abstract: The instrument comprises two rigid yokes 1 and 2 capable of sliding one with respect to the other in the direction of the clearances to be measured between two components (R, 5) and 8. First of all, using an operating member 3, enough force to bring the ball R against the stop b1 of its socket is exerted on the component 5 by means of a spring 10. The comparator 9 is zeroed. Enough force is then exerted on the component 5 to bring the ball R to rest on the opposite stop b2 of its socket, this being done using an operating member 4 that acts in the opposite sense, the clevis mount 8 still being held between two resting faces 6, 7 of the yokes 1, 2. The clearance of the ball R in its socket is then read directly off the comparator 9. Application to measuring clearances in ball joints.Type: GrantFiled: December 5, 1997Date of Patent: February 8, 2000Assignee: EurocopterInventors: Thomas Pierre Louis Manfredotti, Christophe Georges Barucchi, Philippe Maurice Paul Antomarchi
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Patent number: 5996946Abstract: A support stand for positioning a precision gauge for checking the dimensions of an article. The base is stable having three supporting feet and being heavier than many such support bases. The base is tapered with finger grooves to fit well into the user's hand and provides an adjustment screw which rotates about a horizontal axis so reaction forces are directed downwardly into the support plate rather than creating a shearing, destabilizing force. The adjustment screw has as large a diameter as practical to reduce the magnitude of the tangential force needed to produce rotation and its rotation reacts a nub against the substantially vertical support post to tilt it, and the precision gauge supported thereby. An L-shaped bracket can be inverted to provide increased flexibility in measuring different size articles. Squareness checking rails are provided on the front and back surfaces to enhance the flexibility of using this support stand.Type: GrantFiled: August 7, 1998Date of Patent: December 7, 1999Assignee: Boice Industrial CorporationInventor: Boice R. Bailey
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Patent number: 5873173Abstract: A device for measuring length and vertical clearance of engine connecting rods comprising a base which is attached to an upstanding member in a hinged fashion. A vertical guide slot of substantial length is disposed within the upstanding member along a longitudinal center axis and distal to the base. A wrist pin mandrel comprising a guide slot receiving member is disposed on the upstanding member such that said guide slot receiving member is engaged in the vertical guide slot. Positioned at the top of the upstanding member is a dial indicator within a mount. A plunger projecting downward from said dial indicator rests upon the top of the mandrel's guide slot receiving member. Proximally to the base of the measuring surface is a standard mount which engages a standard. The standard is vertically slidable and adapted to be locked at adjusted elevations within said mount.Type: GrantFiled: July 31, 1997Date of Patent: February 23, 1999Inventor: David W. Redmond
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Patent number: 5768792Abstract: A method and apparatus for measuring position and orientation of features of a part or item and tube fitting using a portable coordinate measuring machine (CMM) is presented. The coordinate measuring machine comprising a multijointed manually, positionable measuring arm for accurately and easily measuring the position of a point in space by using a special probe, which may be a disk, to perform the tube fitting is interconnected with a host computer. The tube fitting is performed using a coordinate measuring machine in conjunction with appropriate CAD (computer and design) based inspection software which includes tube fitting capabilities.Type: GrantFiled: February 9, 1996Date of Patent: June 23, 1998Assignee: Faro Technologies Inc.Inventor: Simon Raab
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Patent number: 5746002Abstract: A measuring apparatus for speedily measuring a bearing height is disclosed. A plunger of a movable cylinder is extended with a test load P by a constant pressure applying mechanism S. The movable cylinder is ascended from a receded position to a measuring position by a slide cam. A bearing half W disposed on a pushing member is fitted in a receiving cavity of a standard tool in such a manner that an end of the bearing half W slightly protrudes from the receiving cavity portion. When the movable cylinder slightly exceeds the measuring position, a plunger is pressed for the length of the end protruded from the receiving cavity portion. At this point, the bearing half W is held with the test load P. Thus, the bearing height can be immediately measured by a length sensor.Type: GrantFiled: September 19, 1996Date of Patent: May 5, 1998Assignee: Diado Metal Company Ltd.Inventors: Hiroshi Murakami, Masanori Tsutsui, Katsumi Asai, Takayoshi Sasaki
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Patent number: 5737845Abstract: A method and apparatus for measuring the characteristic dimensions of a vehicle seat for use in an automotive vehicle including the seat H-point location and determining variable data deviations of the dimensions and the H-point location from standard specifications wherein a seat to be tested is placed in a seat buck including a focused light beam generator capable of directing a light beam toward the vehicle seat after it is mounted on the seat buck, the seat buck further including a fixed target member for prepositioning the location of the light beam for zeroing the digital position coordinate read-outs prior to installation of the seat being tested on the seat buck.Type: GrantFiled: July 11, 1996Date of Patent: April 14, 1998Assignee: Lear CorporationInventor: David Marasus
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Patent number: 5678963Abstract: Wheels of rail vehicles are trued while the wheels are kept rotating about a wheel center of rotation that is continuously corrected to keep the center of rotation in a fixed position in response to eccentricities a wheel may have, especially in its outer circumference. For this purpose, a sensor for each wheel of two wheels forming a set senses a respective excursion of a center of rotation of each wheel being trued in a set to provide respective excursion signals which are supplied to a central processing unit that provides control signals to a power drive for wheel guide rollers which support the wheel set to be trued. The power drive applies wheel position adjusting force components, preferably directed radially relative to the respective wheel rotational axis in response to the control signals from the central processing unit whereby the excursions are compensated and the wheel rotation center is kept in a fixed position.Type: GrantFiled: November 8, 1995Date of Patent: October 21, 1997Assignee: Hegenscheidt-MFD GmbHInventor: Alfred Heimann
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Patent number: 5625958Abstract: An axial flow, turbofan gas turbine engine, generally, has a fan section, a compressor section, a combustor section, and a turbine section. An axially extending flow path for working medium gases extends through these sections. The compressor section includes an upstream low pressure compressor and a downstream high pressure compressor. The high pressure compressor is formed by a stator assembly and a rotor assembly. The rotor assembly has a plurality of airfoils or blades which extend radially outward from a rotor disk. During operation, the fan section draws in the working medium gases, as well as, sand. The sand abrades the blades and causes the blades to erode. In an effort to determine the service life remaining in a blade after erosion damage has been done, the present invention relates to a method and a gauge for measuring the service life remaining in a blade.Type: GrantFiled: September 6, 1995Date of Patent: May 6, 1997Assignee: United Technologies CorporationInventors: Jonathan M. DeCoursey, Roland E. Morrissette, Fritz K. Smakula
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Patent number: 5570514Abstract: There is disclosed a device and method for measuring a crimp height which eliminates the step of re-holding a wire to readily accomplish the application thereof to an automatic wiring assembly fabricating apparatus. The crimp height measuring device includes: a measuring base for placing thereon a crimp terminal of the wire conveyed in a predetermined wire conveying direction by a wire conveying device holding the wire with the crimp terminal projecting in a direction crosswise to the wire conveying direction; a clamp device adapted to displace to a fixing position allowing the crimp terminal to be clamped on the measuring base and to an open position allowing the crimp terminal to be conveyed in the wire conveying direction; and a control device for displacing the clamp device to the open position to allow the crimp terminal to be conveyed when the wire is conveyed.Type: GrantFiled: February 6, 1995Date of Patent: November 5, 1996Assignee: Sumitomo Wiring Systems, Ltd.Inventors: Kenji Hashimoto, Nobuyuki Itaya
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Patent number: 5539992Abstract: An apparatus for measuring and correcting the straightness of a hollow vacuum nozzle for semiconductor assembly equipment comprises a collet which can rotate over 360.degree. and holds the nozzle. An indicator, such as a dial indicator, has a tip which conformally and continuously engages the nozzle so that as the collet and nozzle are rotated the indicator tip rides on the nozzle. Any horizontal movement of a bent nozzle is shown on the indicator. The bend in the nozzle can then be repaired and rechecked while the nozzle is installed in the collet.Type: GrantFiled: April 12, 1995Date of Patent: July 30, 1996Assignee: Micron Electronics, IncInventor: Glenn P. Woodhouse
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Patent number: 5465497Abstract: A method and a gage for testing uncoupling tools to ensure proper operation prior to use. The uncoupling tool gage simulates the actual conditions under which the uncoupling tool is expected to perform. The gage has a cylindrical guide for slidably receiving a magnet housing. The guide is supported such that it is concentric with respect to the probe of an uncoupling tool to be checked. The magnet housing is placed inside the cylindrical guide and then moved toward the bottom thereof. When the magnet moves into proximity with a switch in the uncoupling tool probe, an indicator lamp in the uncoupling tool illuminates. If the face of the magnet housing is within a range band on the outside of the guide when the indicator is illuminated, then the uncoupling tool is operating properly.Type: GrantFiled: February 22, 1994Date of Patent: November 14, 1995Assignee: General Electric CompanyInventors: Balasubramanian S. Kowdley, Thomas A. Lewis, Robert S. Tsukida, Edward W. Saxon, Frank Ortega, Paul Debenedetto
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Patent number: 5463818Abstract: A device for measuring a dimension of an object includes a platform with a contact surface and a measuring device. An object to be measured is placed on the platform between the contact surface and the measuring device and held flat by a clamping wedge. In order to obtain a variance of said dimension with respect to a nominal value, a standard having a known length is first placed on the platform and the measuring device is calibrated using the standard.Type: GrantFiled: March 30, 1994Date of Patent: November 7, 1995Assignee: Cold Metal Products, Inc.Inventor: Charles H. Hughes
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Patent number: 5456019Abstract: A method and apparatus for measuring the coordinates of a vehicle seat hip pivot axis, or H-point, including a vehicle seat assembly (10) supported on a support structure (30). The support structure (30) having x and z coordinate grid lines and an alignment pick-up bar (82) for aligning the seat (10) along predetermined x and z coordinate grid lines. A seat occupant simulating manikin (32) is positioned on the seat (10) for defining the vehicle seat hip pivot axis. Measuring device (92) for aligning and measuring the hip pivot axis, or H-point, includes a guide (120) fixedly supported at predetermined x,z coordinates on the support structure (30) for guiding a housing member (94) along an x-axis. A telescoping member (96) slidably extends from the housing member (94) along a y-axis and a measuring pointer (108) extends from the telescoping member (96) along a z-axis to align with and measure the hip pivot axis, or H-point, on the manikin.Type: GrantFiled: April 20, 1994Date of Patent: October 10, 1995Assignee: Lear Seating CorporationInventors: Robert J. Dowell, Joseph A. Hamilton
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Patent number: 5433013Abstract: An apparatus for measuring and correcting the straightness of a hollow vacuum nozzle for semiconductor assembly equipment comprises a collet which can rotate over 360.degree. and holds the nozzle. An indicator, such as a dial indicator, has a tip which conformally and continuously engages the nozzle so that as the collet and nozzle are rotated the indicator tip rides on the nozzle. Any horizontal movement of a bent nozzle is shown on the indicator. The bend in the nozzle can then be repaired and rechecked while the nozzle is installed in the collet.Type: GrantFiled: September 24, 1993Date of Patent: July 18, 1995Assignee: Micron Custom Manufacturing Services, Inc.Inventor: Glenn P. Woodhouse
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Patent number: 5375341Abstract: An apparatus for measuring crimp height between crimped opposite sides of a terminal which has been crimped to an element is provided. The apparatus is particularly useful for measuring the crimp height of a terminal when one or more of the crimped opposite sides has a surface profile that is non-planar, or when a soft insulation sleeve is present on the terminal in the crimp area. The apparatus includes a pair of opposed probe members which are relatively movable between open and closed positions. In the open position the probe members are spaced apart- In the closed position the probe members are biased against the crimped opposite sides by springs. The probe members are specially configured to match the surface profiles of the crimped opposite sides.Type: GrantFiled: June 17, 1994Date of Patent: December 27, 1994Assignee: The Whitaker CorporationInventors: David A. College, David J. Erb
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Patent number: 5353516Abstract: The invention comprises a measuring device for turbine packing rings which may be used for measuring the critical distance from the free ends of the packing ring teeth to the packing ring hook fit slot.Type: GrantFiled: February 5, 1993Date of Patent: October 11, 1994Assignee: IMO Industries, Inc., Quabbin DivisionInventor: William S. Dalton
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Patent number: 5337485Abstract: An electronic three-probe measuring system with both compact structure, light and small, and spacial method, which views the dimensional changes in the measuring roundness error step to contain both roundness error and vibration for accurately measuring roundness error, concentricity, crown, shape, taper, sag and vibration of cylindrical rolls used in flat rolled product mills.Type: GrantFiled: September 21, 1992Date of Patent: August 16, 1994Inventor: An Y. Chien
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Patent number: 5313714Abstract: An instrument for measuring dimensions of a can seam portion including a criterion measuring pin, a linear gauge provided with a measuring spindle which is so supported as to be movable along a straight line L in the direction of approaching said criterion measuring pin and in the direction of leaving said criterion measuring pin, a can cap supporting block, and a can body supporting block. The can cap supporting block holds the can such that the direction of measuring can seaming thickness T coincides with the straight line L so that the inner face of the can seam portion contacts the criterion measuring pin. The can body supporting block holds the can such that the direction for measuring the can seaming width W is identical with the straight line L and the lower face so that the can seam portion contacts the criterion measuring pin.Type: GrantFiled: June 8, 1992Date of Patent: May 24, 1994Assignee: The Coca-Cola CompanyInventor: Saburo Nakao
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Patent number: 5224272Abstract: A low cost, portable computer aided runout measuring system for cylindrical components comprises an electrically interconnected displacement transducer, a computer and an ancillary angle measuring device. Runout deviations are stored in the computer in a displacement vs. time mode while concurrently therewith the angle at deviation is stored in the computer.Type: GrantFiled: October 11, 1991Date of Patent: July 6, 1993Assignee: General Electric CompanyInventors: Clifford M. Toraason, Patrick M. Sullivan
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Patent number: 5224275Abstract: An apparatus is provided for measuring the distance an optical fiber terminated in a connector protrudes from a component of the connector such as a ferrule or the like. A fixed abutment member defines an abutment surface against which the connector component can be moved into engagement. A movable measuring member is mounted for movement relative to the fixed abutment member and is engageable by a distal end of the optical fiber as the connector component is moved into engagement with the abutment surface of the fixed abutment member. Therefore, the amount of relative movement between the movable measuring member and the fixed abutment member directly corresponds to the distance the optical fiber protrudes from the connector component. Calculating electronics are operatively associated with at least the movable measuring member for calculating its amount of movement and, thereby, the protruding distance of the optical fiber.Type: GrantFiled: June 15, 1992Date of Patent: July 6, 1993Assignee: Molex IncorporatedInventor: Jose B. Salzberg
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Patent number: 5216819Abstract: A method of detecting rivets which are outside of a predetermined length tolerance includes holding a rivet in a first reference position with its head in a rivet hole countersink, and moving a probe, in the form of a rivet tail die, into contact with the rivet tail. The position of the probe when it contacts the rivet tail is detected and compared with the predetermined position tolerences corresponding to the rivet length tolerences. The rivet is held in the first reference position by a rivet head die with a force greater than the force exerted by the probe when contacting the rivet tail to ensure that the rivet stays in the reference position during the measuring step. If the rivet is too long or too short, a rivet recovery sequence is executed to remove the out-sized rivet and a new rivet is inserted and measured. When the rivet is confirmed to be within the length tolerance, the rivet dies are driven inward toward each other to upset the rivet.Type: GrantFiled: January 10, 1992Date of Patent: June 8, 1993Assignee: The Boeing CompanyInventor: Gregory C. Givler
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Patent number: 5216818Abstract: A pair of anvil pins are mounted at their lower ends on a pair of spaced carriers, which reciprocate beneath a work supporting surface in horizontally spaced, colinear paths. The pins project upwardly through an elongate slot in the work surface and into a bore in an annular workpiece positioned on the surface. One carrier is urged by a spring in one direction to cause its anvil pin to urge the outer periphery of the workpiece into a V-shaped recess in a locator plate that is adjustably secured on the work surface, thereby to center the workpiece over the slot. An indicator mounted on the other carrier has a resilient probe extending between the carriers to urge them apart, and thereby to urge their pins against diametrally opposite sides of the bore, whereby a readout on the gage will indicate the extent to which the I.D. of the bore differs from a predetermined value. One pin is adjustable on its carrier to accomodate the gage for measuring particularly large or small bores.Type: GrantFiled: December 9, 1991Date of Patent: June 8, 1993Assignee: Quality Measurement Systems Corp.Inventors: David W. Rucinski, Ronald Aurnou, Joel A. Neal
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Patent number: 5208996Abstract: An axis reference probe for locating reference surfaces and determining tool lengths. The axis reference probe is used in conjunction with a computer controlled machine. The axis reference probe has a body and a first bore extending longitudinally through said body. A plunger having a cam surface thereon, a spring, a spring retainer, and a plug reside generally in said first bore. A second bore is oriented transversely with respect to said first bore and communicates therewith, and, a gage residing primarily in said second bore. The gage has a cam following actuation arm which follows movement of said cam and translates longitudinal movement of said plunger into rotary indication on said gage. The spring retainer and plug are affixed to said body.Type: GrantFiled: January 21, 1992Date of Patent: May 11, 1993Inventor: Kurt Schaldach
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Patent number: 5116234Abstract: There is specified a measuring arrangement for rotationally symmetrical workpieces with an adjustable clamping device which carriers the workpiece, and with a movable measuring slide which carries at least one measuring head which measures the workpiece with a sensing pin in a radial direction or an axial direction or both, as the disadvantage is avoided that with a change of the measuring assignment another sensing pin adapted to the new measuring assignment must be reoutfitted in a complicated manner. To accomplish this task the measuring head is equipped with a sensing pin carrier that carries several sensing pins and is turnable. Thus, the sensing pins can be turned rapidly into the measuring position. There they are held fast by a stopping device.Type: GrantFiled: September 5, 1991Date of Patent: May 26, 1992Assignee: Dr.-Ing. Hofler Messgeratebau GmbHInventors: Hans-Ulrich Bertz, Willi Meder
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Patent number: 5101835Abstract: A method for testing for dysfunctional discs in which a spinal contact member contacts a disc under a low force to obtain the position of the contact member with the disc in its normal or usual unstressed position, the same disc is contacted with the contact member under an elevated increased standard force to obtain a second position of the contact member, and the two positions are compared to determine the condition of the disc. A complete contour of the spine is obtained and recorded. Apparatus used includes a roller which bears against the spine and rolls from disc to disc with the roller being mounted on a vertical calibrated rod. Means are provided to vary the pressure applied to the rod.Type: GrantFiled: August 27, 1990Date of Patent: April 7, 1992Inventor: Lawrence DelRe
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Patent number: 5050112Abstract: The Specimen coordinate Automated Measuring Machine (SCAMM) and the Fiducial Automated Measuring Machine (FAMM) is a computer controlled metrology system capable of measuring length, width, and thickness, and of locating fiducial marks. SCAMM and FAMM have many similarities in their designs, and they can be converted from one to the other without taking them out of the hot cell. Both have means for: supporting a plurality of samples and a standard; controlling the movement of the samples in the +/- X and Y directions; determining the coordinates of the sample; compensating for temperature effects; and verifying the accuracy of the measurements and repeating as necessary. SCAMM and FAMM are designed to be used in hot cells.Type: GrantFiled: August 8, 1989Date of Patent: September 17, 1991Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the United States Department of EnergyInventors: Robert E. Hedglen, Howard S. Jacket, Allan I. Schwartz
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Patent number: 4976043Abstract: An apparatus for gaging the contour of a machined part includes a rotary slide assembly, a kinematic mount to move the apparatus into and out of position for measuring the part while the part is still on the machining apparatus, a linear probe assembly with a suspension arm and a probe assembly including as probe tip for providing a measure of linear displacement of the tip on the surface of the part, a means for changing relative positions between the part and the probe tip, and a means for recording data points representing linear positions of the probe tip at prescribed rotation intervals in the position changes between the part and the probe tip.Type: GrantFiled: February 9, 1989Date of Patent: December 11, 1990Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the United States Department of EnergyInventor: Lothar F. Bieg
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Patent number: 4914827Abstract: A plurality of adjustable feelers are mounted to a gage head in front of relatively delicate sensing fingers. The feelers will contact the part before the sensing fingers in the event of part abnormality or improper positioning of the part within the gaging apparatus. In such manner, further movement of the gage head relative to the part can be stopped before the sensing fingers crash into the part thereby preventing damage to them.Type: GrantFiled: December 28, 1988Date of Patent: April 10, 1990Assignee: GTE Valenite CorporationInventor: Kenneth J. Cook
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Patent number: 4811490Abstract: A method and device for measuring clearance between gears of an internal gear having an inner gear and an outer gear. With the inner gear fixed, the outer gear is set around the inner gear and brought into abutment with the inner gear at one side. The outer gear is then moved in the opposite direction to butt the inner gear at the outer side. The clearance between the two gears is determined by measuring the distance for which the outer gear moves. This method is much simpler and time-saving than a conventional method using clearance gauges.Type: GrantFiled: February 19, 1988Date of Patent: March 14, 1989Assignee: Sumitomo Electric Industries, Ltd.Inventors: Hiroshi Ueda, Mamoru Sugimoto
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Patent number: 4693110Abstract: The present invention is directed to an apparatus and method of testing the operability of probes used in performing workpiece probing operations. According to the preferred embodiment of the present invention, the probe has a first circuit for generating a first signal, the first signal inducing the probe to generate a second signal. A second circuit is provided for receiving the second signal. The second circuit is adapted to generate a third signal indicative of the operability of the probe when the second signal is received. In the preferred embodiment, an infrared signal is delivered by the apparatus to the probe causing the probe to emit an infrared signal. The infrared signal emitted by the probe is then used by the apparatus to generate an electrical signal indicative of the operability of the probe.Type: GrantFiled: June 6, 1985Date of Patent: September 15, 1987Assignee: GTE Valeron CorporationInventor: Richard O. Juengel
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Patent number: 4604810Abstract: A diameter gage is disclosed which measures a plurality of diameters on a workpiece after the workpiece has been machined. First and second U-shaped gage frames mount first and second gage blocks relative to a gage platform, and this gage platform is moved vertically upwardly to a position whereat the gage blocks of each set straddle different ones of the plurality of different diameters on the workpiece. Parallel leaf springs provide low friction mounting of the gage blocks, and also provide urging means to urge the gage blocks into contact with the opposite sides of the workpiece. An electrical output gage is moved in accordance with the relative movement between the two gage blocks of each set to provide an error signal which is passed to the numerical control to correct the machining diameter of the machine tool which machines successive workpieces.Type: GrantFiled: August 29, 1985Date of Patent: August 12, 1986Assignee: The Monarch Machine Tool CompanyInventors: Nagle V. Gusching, Richard R. Daulton
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Patent number: 4603487Abstract: A method for compensating a profiling direction of a profiling machine which is constructed to effect the surface profiling in any angular direction includes calculating a distance or a deviation quantity between an ideal profiling locus defined from a given profiling angle and an actual machine position and adding a correction angle proportional to the deviation quantity to the given profiling angle to obtain a new profiling angle so that the new profiling angle is used to correct an angle to attain the profiling operation.Type: GrantFiled: November 22, 1985Date of Patent: August 5, 1986Assignee: Mitsubishi Jukogyo Kabushiki KaishaInventor: Yuso Matsunata
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Patent number: 4596076Abstract: A device for handling a cylindrical piece (2), equipped with means to measure its diameter comprises two arms (3, 4) provided to grip the piece. In at least one of the arms a dihedron is formed, in which the piece (2) is held, and a length measuring sensor (8) is mounted on the edge of the dihedron, in order to determine the distance from the surface of the piece to the edge, the said distance representing the diameter of the piece.Type: GrantFiled: January 12, 1984Date of Patent: June 24, 1986Assignee: Meseltron S.A.Inventor: Hans Sigg