Process Patents (Class 33/701)
  • Publication number: 20130133215
    Abstract: A tape measure has a finger recess in a housing, with at least a portion of the underside of a tape blade exposed in the finger recess. Pressing a finger against the underside of the tape allows the user to create a drag brake that acts against the retraction spring to slow and/or stop the retraction of the tape blade. The finger recess is located upstream (i.e. closer to the coiled portion of the retracted tape blade) than the point at which the tape measure's lock engages the tape blade. This arrangement results in a compact yet versatile overall tape measure with good tactile feedback during finger-braking.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 30, 2012
    Publication date: May 30, 2013
    Inventors: Tobias McKay Bridges, Jonathan S. Beckwith
  • Publication number: 20130061485
    Abstract: A large bore measuring system includes a modular and extendable bore gage with analog and digital readouts, also includes a settable set-master. The modular bore gage is designed to measure two sets of large bore diameters. A first set of large bores is accomplished by using a modular bore gage design described in this disclosure. The second set of larger bores is accomplished by adding attachments therein extending the gage for the larger range of bore diameters. A set-master is used for both sets of large bores.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 12, 2012
    Publication date: March 14, 2013
    Applicant: DORSEY METROLOGY INTERNATIONAL
    Inventors: Theodore Luty, Stephen Forschler
  • Patent number: 8356418
    Abstract: This invention relates to a system and method for measuring a plurality of skills of an athlete, wherein the system is comprised of: a means for discharging and collecting a distance measuring means; a distance measuring means for measuring a distance to be used in measuring a desired athletic skill, wherein the distance measuring means further comprises a plurality of incremental markings substantially located along a length of the distance measuring means; and a securing means operatively connected to one end of the distance measuring means for securing the distance measuring means.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 16, 2011
    Date of Patent: January 22, 2013
    Inventor: Bruce Hall
  • Publication number: 20130014399
    Abstract: This invention relates to a system and method for measuring a plurality of skills of an athlete, wherein the system is comprised of: a means for discharging and collecting a distance measuring means; a distance measuring means for measuring a distance to be used in measuring a desired athletic skill, wherein the distance measuring means further comprises a plurality of incremental markings substantially located along a length of the distance measuring means; and a securing means operatively connected to one end of the distance measuring means for securing the distance measuring means.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 16, 2011
    Publication date: January 17, 2013
    Inventor: Bruce Hall
  • Publication number: 20120324749
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for measuring a space between parts having restricted access is disclosed. An apparatus may comprise an elongate member, a flange, and a measurement system. An end of the elongate member is configured to move through a hole in a first structure into a space located between the first structure and a second structure. The flange extends from the elongate member. The elongate member is configured to expand after the flange exits the hole in the first structure such that the flange is unable to pass back through the hole. The measurement system is configured to measure movement of the end of the elongate member to identify a length of the space between the first structure and the second structure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 27, 2011
    Publication date: December 27, 2012
    Applicant: THE BOEING COMPANY
    Inventors: Paul Gregory Kostenick, JR., Darrell Darwin Jones, Tracy Edward Zimmerman
  • Publication number: 20120317828
    Abstract: A tape-measure device having elements for measuring and/or marking/cutting an object, includes a tape, a shell (3) with a reel, an opening (5) enabling the tape (2) to pass through the shell wall, an end piece (6) attached to the distal end of the tape, a stop button (7) for the reel for blocking the tape or for enabling the rolling/unrolling of the tape. The elements include a guide shoulder (8) formed on the shell, a guide opening (9) at the end piece for the removable insertion of the end of a marking/cutting tool, and a sliding surface (60) for the end piece for translatably engaging the surface of the object to mark/cut the object using one of the surfaces thereof when the guide shoulder is simultaneously slid along an edge of the object and the end piece of the tape against the surface of the object to be marked/cut.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 10, 2010
    Publication date: December 20, 2012
    Inventor: Frédéric Richard
  • Publication number: 20120304477
    Abstract: A measuring apparatus for measuring a counterbore hole chamfer depth of a workpiece, includes a positioning member having a guiding hole aligned with the counterbore hole of the workpiece, a support member having a receiving hole aligned with the guiding hole, and a measuring device supported by the support member. The measuring device includes a gauge, a retractable pole connected to the gauge and extending into the receiving hole, and a measuring head portion connected to the retractable pole and movably received in the guiding hole. The measuring head portion has a cone-shaped end for abutting on an inner wall of the counterbore hole chamfer, thereby making the measuring head portion move back in the guiding hole and the retractable pole retract. The gauge is configured for calculating and displaying the depth of the counterbore hole chamfer based on the distance the retractable pole retracts.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 11, 2011
    Publication date: December 6, 2012
    Applicants: HON HAI PRECISION INDUSTRY CO., LTD., HONG FU JIN PRECISION INDUSTRY (ShenZhen) CO., LTD.
    Inventor: BING-JUN ZHANG
  • Publication number: 20120304478
    Abstract: When calculating a compensation value for a geometric error, a first index representing an order of connection of drive axes in a machine and a second index representing an order of connection of the drive axes including the geometric error are obtained. Then, a first vector is obtained by performing a matrix operation of a reference vector according to information on the connection in the first index, and a second vector is obtained by performing the matrix operation of the reference vector according to information on the connection in the second index. Thereafter, a difference between the first vector and the second vector is obtained as the compensation value.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 13, 2012
    Publication date: December 6, 2012
    Applicant: Okuma Corporation
    Inventor: Tetsuya Matsushita
  • Publication number: 20120291298
    Abstract: Devices and methods to facilitate proper installation of a power takeoff on a transmission are disclosed. Embodiments include gauges and methods that enable users to properly select the thickness of the gasket between the power takeoff and the transmission housing to minimize gear backlash and gear interference while installing a power takeoff on a transmission. In one embodiment, the gauge is of unitary construction with at least one surface adapted to contact the transmission housing and another surface adapted to avoid contact with the transmission gear by at least 2/1000 inches and at most 3/100 inches when the gasket thickness is proper for minimizing gear backlash and interference. Alternate embodiments include cutouts that aid in aligning the gauge within the transmission housing and can assist in determining the appropriate gasket thickness.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 20, 2012
    Publication date: November 22, 2012
    Applicant: Muncie Power Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Brian Young, John Rinkenbaugh, Jeremy Armstrong
  • Publication number: 20120272541
    Abstract: In order to be able to compensate different temperature expansion of a magnetic tape, (measuring tape) and a support ring in an angle sensor where the magnetic tape is applied to a circumference of a component and where a scanning head is used, the magnetic tape is fixated at the support ring at the most at one location of the circumference and otherwise supported at the circumference with a tension band, so that the measuring tape can perform a movement relative to the support ring, and/or the tension band due to the expansion in circumferential direction.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 18, 2012
    Publication date: November 1, 2012
    Inventors: Klaus Manfred Steinich, Gunnar Kamp
  • Publication number: 20120246958
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for measuring a bicycle seating position. A telescoping rod includes a pinch closure, with contact points to attach to a pedal, a saddle, and a handlebar/stem. The telescoping rod includes a larger diameter rod with a small diameter rod that can slide into the larger diameter rod, thereby allowing the inner rod to move freely up or down to account for differing distances being measured. The smaller diameter rod can include a measuring scale to allow a user to read a measurement from one point to another, allowing for the measurement to be repeated. With the pinch closure, a user could take a measurement on one bicycle, carry it over to another bicycle and set a position on the second bicycle identical to that of the first bicycle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 8, 2012
    Publication date: October 4, 2012
    Inventor: Charles E. Buckland
  • Publication number: 20120233871
    Abstract: A length reference bar system and method that compensates for thermal expansion and allows for testing whether an instrument is working properly using only an inferometer. The system has a bar portion with end caps for target positions on either end of the bar portion that extend inward toward each other such that, if a length of the bar portion changes due to a temperature change, a length of the end caps also changes in an opposite direction to counteract the bar portion length change. Any target positions mounted on the end caps remain at a constant distance from each other regardless of the temperature thereby canceling out the effect of thermal expansion. The end caps also provide multiple target positioning capability so that any targets mounted thereon may be positioned in various configurations to provide a user with increased versatility for applications such as checking calibration.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 27, 2012
    Publication date: September 20, 2012
    Applicant: BRUNSON INSTRUMENT COMPANY
    Inventor: Deighton E. Brunson
  • Patent number: 8270150
    Abstract: A drive-removal mechanism may include, but is not limited to: at least one rotatable member; and at least one drive-engaging member operably coupled to the at least one rotatable member, wherein the drive-removal mechanism is detached from at least one drive to be removed. A drive enclosure may include, but is not limited to: at least one drive-receiving member including at least one drive-receiving channel; and at least one drive-removal mechanism including: at least one rotatable member; and at least one drive-engaging member operably coupled to the at least one rotatable member, wherein the drive-removal mechanism is configured to at least partially remove at least one hot swappable drive from the at least one drive-receiving channel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 22, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 18, 2012
    Assignee: International Business Machines Corporation
    Inventors: Walter A. Goodman, Daniel P. Kelaher, Roland K. Alo, William Beauchamp
  • Publication number: 20120204687
    Abstract: A clamp device is provided for defining a reference for a measurement comprising: a receiving tray defining a first reference guide and a second reference guide disposed at an acute angle to said first reference guide; a wing projecting from said receiving tray and defining a reference edge which aligns with the vertex of the angle between said first and second reference guides and is orthogonal to said first reference guide; a handle projecting from said receiving tray; a second handle pivotally connected with said first handle and having a forward portion; a clamp plate pivotally mounted to said forward portion; and a biasing member which biases the handles apart so that said pivoting clamp plate is urged toward said receiving tray.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 11, 2011
    Publication date: August 16, 2012
    Inventor: Evans KALAMBOKAS
  • Publication number: 20120192446
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a measuring device for measuring a desired length and a method of using the device, where the device comprises: a metal casing; a retractable tape measure extending from the right side of the metal casing; and numerical markings on the tape measure, where the numerical markings increase from right end of the tape to the left toward the metal casing when the tape measure is extended from the metal casing. The numerical markings may designate either inches or centimeters and may include sub-units thereof.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 28, 2011
    Publication date: August 2, 2012
    Inventor: Laurencio Javian
  • Publication number: 20120151788
    Abstract: A system for determining the grip length of a hole extending through a stack of panels so that a fastener of appropriate length can be selected for insertion into the hole. A shaft carrying an array of probes is inserted into the hole and the array generates signals indicating which probes of the array are contacting an inner wall of the hole.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 15, 2010
    Publication date: June 21, 2012
    Applicant: Lockheed Martin Corporation
    Inventors: Russell L. Miller, Rick A. Luepke
  • Publication number: 20120102773
    Abstract: In order to be able to deflect a free end of a measuring band of a measuring band sensor not only in a direction transversal to an inlet plane according to the invention the free end of the measuring band 3 arranged outside of the housing is twisted about its longitudinal axis by 90° at the most. This facilitates deflections of a total of 180°. When a deflection within the remaining 180° shall be facilitated, a torsion of the free end of the measuring band also has to be provided by 90°, but in the other direction with respect to the inlet plane.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 27, 2011
    Publication date: May 3, 2012
    Inventor: Klaus Manfred Steinich
  • Publication number: 20120102772
    Abstract: A distance measuring device having a frame defining an operating handle. At least one wheel is mounted to the frame. A counter mechanism on the frame has a display and a reset mechanism. An actuating mechanism has components cooperating between the at least one wheel and counter mechanism for causing cumulative distance measurements to be identified on the display as the at least one wheel is rolled against an underlying surface. The counter mechanism has a reset actuator that is moved from a retracted position into an actuated position. The reset actuator has a surface with an engaging area. The distance measuring device further has at least one stop component that defines a blocking surface to arrest movement of a component, having an area that is greater than the engaging area, that is pressed against the surface of the reset actuator to thereby move the reset actuator from the retracted position into the actuated position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 25, 2011
    Publication date: May 3, 2012
    Inventor: Mark Nepil
  • Patent number: 8170831
    Abstract: The invention provides an apparatus and a method for measuring a dimension of a circular object. First to third sensors arranged in a straight line are disposed above a track to respectively measure time instants when the circular object moves past the first to third sensors. The dimension of the circular object is calculated according to distances between the first and second sensors and between the second and third sensors.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 29, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 1, 2012
    Inventor: Maw-Yuan Liou
  • Publication number: 20120098660
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for determining the amount of media on an elevator that supports a media stack in an image production device is disclosed. The method may include sensing one or more identification mark on a segmented positional reference scale, determining the elevator's position based on the sensed one or more identification mark, and determining an amount of media on the elevator based on the determined elevator position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 21, 2010
    Publication date: April 26, 2012
    Applicant: XEROX CORPORATION
    Inventors: Martin E. HOOVER, Douglas K. Herrmann
  • Publication number: 20120090187
    Abstract: A flexible and non-elastic cord is provided. The cord may have a first plurality of markings, spaced apart by a uniform first distance, and a second plurality of markings, spaced apart by a uniform second distance. The uniform first distance may be substantially larger than the uniform second distance. Each of the first plurality of markings may be colored a first color. Each of the second plurality of markings may be colored a second color which is different from the first color. Each of the first plurality of markings and each of the second plurality of markings may be a straight line. The uniform first distance may be sixteen inches and the uniform second distance may be twelve inches. The cord may be placed next to a winding path to be measured, so that the cord follows the winding path, and the winding path may be measured using the cord.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 25, 2011
    Publication date: April 19, 2012
    Inventor: Andy Peters
  • Patent number: 8155259
    Abstract: An apparatus for measuring perpendicularity of an upper tie plate of a nuclear fuel bundle includes a first comb having a first plurality of teeth; a second comb having a second plurality of teeth, the second comb being parallel to and spaced from the first comb; a comb connector that connects the first comb to the second comb, the comb connector having a second end extending beyond the first comb; a rigid finger provided at the second end of the comb connector; a rotatable gage provided on the second comb; and a mobile finger operatively connected to the gage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 17, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 10, 2012
    Assignee: Global Nuclear Fuel—Americas, LLC
    Inventors: Stephanie Baker Lindquist, Russell Patrick Higgins, David Grey Smith, William Williams, Edward G. Apple
  • Publication number: 20120047757
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for measuring distance on a loose surface is disclosed. The apparatus includes a frame and a wheel operatively coupled to the frame. The wheel rotates relative to the frame. Further, the wheel includes a hub for operatively coupling the wheel with the frame. The hub rotates relative to the frame in response to one of pushing and pulling of the frame. To increase traction between the wheel and the loose surface, a plurality of spikes is provided on a peripheral surface of the wheel, projecting outwardly away from the hub. As the peripheral surface rolls on the surface, the distance traversed by the wheel is measured by calculating the number of rotations made by the wheel. A counter is operatively coupled to the wheel for tracking the number of rotations made by the wheel as the peripheral surface of the wheel rolls on the loose surface.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 30, 2010
    Publication date: March 1, 2012
    Applicant: KING ABDUL AZIZ CITY FOR SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY
    Inventors: Tariq Ali Alkhalifah, Khaled Faraj Rashdan Almutairi, Faisal Mojari Almotiri
  • Publication number: 20120042532
    Abstract: A small multi-tool device designed to aid the performance of length measurements using measuring-tape devices is disclosed. In a typical embodiment, the multi-tool device is comprised of two substantially parallel planar support surfaces, coupled to each other at one edge, and with holes strategically disposed through the surfaces to facilitate the insertion of elongated and rigid members that lay on or otherwise engage parts of the target structure to be measured. The multi-tool device is designed to facilitate hypotenuse measurements, as well as measurements on structures where the edge to serve as an anchor point is rough, rounded, or non-existent. Further, the multi-tool device can also serve to act as a clip/clamp for various documents or the tops of bags of goods.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 17, 2010
    Publication date: February 23, 2012
    Inventor: Steven A. Marquez
  • Publication number: 20120030957
    Abstract: A bench top vernier caliper clamp includes a weighted base supporting a vertically extending section having a lower end integral with said base. An angle plate is removably secured to the vertically extending section adjacent a distal end of its vertically extending section, wherein the angle plate has a fixed lower jaw with a face. A loosening knob is provided for rotating the angle plate on the vertically extending section and for locking the angle plate with the lower jaw in any preselected rotated position. An upper jaw is provided having a face directly opposite the respective face on the lower jaw. A clamping knob moves the upper jaw toward and away from the lower jaw to clamp a portion of either end of the vernier caliper in place between the faces of the and lower jaws, whereby the vernier caliper remains fixed in place while measurements are being recorded.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 6, 2010
    Publication date: February 9, 2012
    Inventor: Hyman Jack Kipnes
  • Publication number: 20120030958
    Abstract: A roll of paper dimensioned to cover the surface of an associated medical examination table. Successive axial sections of the free end of the roll are elongated axially. Each axial section includes a plurality of indicia representative of units of length disposed on the paper at axially spaced locations on the axial section. The indicia are elongated laterally with respect to the axial section. In some embodiments the respective indicia are differentiated by length or color. The respective indicia may be disposed at axial intervals along substantially the entire axial extent of the entire roll. In some embodiments the respective indicia extend laterally across a substantial part of the lateral extent of the axial section.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 3, 2010
    Publication date: February 9, 2012
    Inventor: Michelle Mihalcik
  • Patent number: 8109007
    Abstract: A method for sensing an object profile shape involves relatively sweeping (whisking or translating) in angular or translational increments an elongated whisker element having a deflectable cantilever region and an object so that the cantilever region bends as a result of sliding along an object periphery. The moment (torque) at a base region of the whisker element as a result of the bending is determined. The method then iteratively determines successive contact point locations on the object periphery based on small successive increments in angle or position of the whisker element and the sensed moment (torque).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 1, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 7, 2012
    Assignee: Northwestern University
    Inventors: Joseph H. Solomon, Mitra J. Hartmann, Christopher L. Schroeder
  • Publication number: 20120023768
    Abstract: In addition to other aspects disclosed, a caliper is configured to measure at least one physical dimension. The caliper has a display configured to present a first representation and a second representation of a measurement provided by the caliper. The format of the first representation is different from the format of the second representation, and the first representation is approximately simultaneously displayed with the second representation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 14, 2011
    Publication date: February 2, 2012
    Inventor: Robert Stockman
  • Publication number: 20110302798
    Abstract: An apparatus for counting parts in a tape and reel packaging system in which a plurality of parts are packaged on linear tape wound onto a reel. The apparatus includes a measuring device, and a meter body. The meter body includes electronic means for calculating and displaying a quantity of parts in the tape and reel packaging system. The calculation is based on inputs supplied by a user employing the measuring device. In an embodiment, the apparatus is portable and configured to be hand-held.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 9, 2011
    Publication date: December 15, 2011
    Applicant: Innoquest, Inc.
    Inventor: William C. Hughes
  • Patent number: 8065810
    Abstract: Elongation measurement apparatuses and systems comprise at least two Linear Variable Differential Transformers (LVDTs) with a push rod coupled to each of the at least two LVDTs at one longitudinal end thereof. At least one push rod extends to a base and is coupled thereto at an opposing longitudinal end, and at least one other push rod extends to a location spaced apart from the base and is configured to receive a sample between an opposing longitudinal end of the at least one other push rod and the base. Nuclear reactors comprising such apparatuses and systems and methods of measuring elongation of a material are also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 7, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 29, 2011
    Assignee: Battelle Energy Alliance, LLC
    Inventors: Joy L. Rempe, Darrell L. Knudson, Joshua E. Daw, Keith G. Condie, Carl M. Stoots
  • Publication number: 20110284146
    Abstract: A method for automatically setting the rider roll/glue applicator roll gap for the single face web on a glue machine senses a forward drag that the single face web, operating at corrugator speed, exerts on the glue applicator roll, driven at an underspeed, after bringing the flute tips of the single face web into contact with the glue applicator roll by adjusting the position of the rider roll. Changes in forward drag exerted on the glue applicator roll are monitored and related directly to glue applicator roll drive current to provide a slight compression of the single face web between the rider roll and the glue applicator roll. Preferably, the glue applicator roll uses a regenerative drive and the target drive current command in a feedback control system to cause the gap to be adjusted to achieve the desired slight compression of the web flutes and to maintain the glue applicator roll under speed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 24, 2010
    Publication date: November 24, 2011
    Applicant: Marquip, LLC
    Inventors: Charles M. Hirtreiter, John R. Sofinowski, James A. Cummings
  • Publication number: 20110248861
    Abstract: A method of detecting gross weight overload of a vehicle comprising the steps of positioning one or more ultrasonic sensors on the vehicle so that said sensors measure the distance to a ground surface, using the sensors to measure height above the ground surface of the vehicle in a non-overloaded condition, adding known weights to the vehicle until maximum gross vehicle weight (GVW) is attained, ascertaining height above the ground surface at this gross vehicle weight (GVW), and continuously measuring height of the ground surface and collecting height above the ground surface data to establish when an overload condition occurs.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 8, 2011
    Publication date: October 13, 2011
    Inventor: Anthony P. Corrado
  • Publication number: 20110232119
    Abstract: The present invention provides an improved design of tape measures. The Sports Yard Tape is similar in appearance to a traditional tape measure and as such features square-shaped, durable outer casing made of a hard plastic or, in another embodiment, metal material. The measuring blade is internally coiled within this casing, Mylar™-coated for added durability and featuring a metallic anchoring hook at its proximal end. Yet, unique to the Sports Yard Tape and what sets it apart from standard units is found in found in the measurements imprinted on the surface of the tape. While the Sports Yard Tape features standard millimeter, centimeter, inch and feet measurements, most prominently displayed are measurements classified by yards. As such, every thirty-six inches, the designated yardage is clearly imprinted on the surface of the tape.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 14, 2011
    Publication date: September 29, 2011
    Inventor: Andre N. Smalls
  • Publication number: 20110232120
    Abstract: A disclosed example method for compensating a temperature-dependent change of position on a machine tool having at least one first linear axis involves detecting at least one first temperature at a first temperature measuring position of the first linear axis of the machine tool. The example method also involves obtaining a first difference in temperature between a first reference temperature and the first temperature and determining a first compensation value based on the first difference in temperature. In addition, the example method involves compensating a temperature-dependent change of position based on the first compensation value, the first compensation value is additionally determined based on an axis position of the first linear axis.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 23, 2011
    Publication date: September 29, 2011
    Inventors: Udo Tüllmann, Christof Zenker
  • Publication number: 20110205555
    Abstract: Disclosed is a method and apparatus for measuring the drop Y of sports netting (10) strung between opposed posts (14, 16), wherein a datum point (28) is provided on each post, a datum line (42) is provided between the datum points and the distance Y between the datum line and a specified part (38) of the net measured; the height X above ground (40) of the net is extrapolated by providing the datum points (28) at a known height Z above ground (40) and subtracting the measured drop Y from the datum point height Z: the datum line (42) may be a light-weight cord strung between the datum points or a beam of visible or invisible light.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 6, 2009
    Publication date: August 25, 2011
    Applicant: SATIAN INDUSTRIES CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Sarun Lorhpipat
  • Publication number: 20110192046
    Abstract: A fish measuring device preferably substantially contains or surrounds a fish, and thus calms the fish, and provides a relatively quick measurement of the fish's length. An elongate tube preferably contains a capped end with a visual inspection portion proximate the capped end. A cut out distal from the capped end preferably includes a primary length indicator. When a fish is measured, the user places the fish in the tube, preferably under water, with the tube partially filled with water, or with the tube previously wetted. The user visually confirms the nose of the fish touches the capped end and reaches through the cut out distal from the capped end to squeeze the tail fins of the fish together. The user compares the position of the squeezed tail fins against the primary length indicator, preferably to determine whether the fish is shorter than, or at least meets, a legal length limit.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 7, 2011
    Publication date: August 11, 2011
    Inventor: Michael Patrick Kinziger
  • Publication number: 20110192045
    Abstract: A measurement apparatus (10) for the absolute value determination of lengths or of angles, said apparatus having at least one reading head (14) and a physical scale (12) is provided, which has at least a partial section (18) with a connection (28) for another partial section (18) in a sequential arrangement. In this respect the partial section (18) includes a control unit (30) for the active determination of the position of the reading head (14) proximal to the partial section (18) as well as a storage element (32) in which an own position information of the partial section (18) within the physical scale (12) can be stored.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 30, 2010
    Publication date: August 11, 2011
    Applicant: SICK STEGMANN GmbH
    Inventor: Josef SIRAKY
  • Publication number: 20110173832
    Abstract: This invention relates to a method of operating an absolute encoder apparatus comprising a scale having features defining absolute position information in at least one measuring dimension, and a readhead configured to read the features. The method comprises: obtaining at least one representation of at least some of the features defining absolute position information; analysing the at least one representation to determine at least one parameter indicative of the quality of the representation; and providing an output indicative of the relative setup of the scale and readhead based at least in part on the at least one parameter.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 27, 2009
    Publication date: July 21, 2011
    Applicant: RENISHAW PLC
    Inventors: Andrew Paul Gribble, Iain Robert Gordon-Ingram
  • Publication number: 20110137610
    Abstract: A method of detecting mailpiece thickness includes detecting a leading edge of the mailpiece, moving a detecting roller downwardly over a first predetermined period of time from a first position to a second position where it contacts the mailpiece, increasing a compressive force applied by the detecting roller to the mailpiece from an initial force to a predetermined measurement force over a second predetermined period of time, and applying the measurement force to the mailpiece for a third predetermined period of time. The method further includes applying the measurement force to the mailpiece for a fourth predetermined period of time and making a number of thickness measurements of the mailpiece based on a position of the detecting roller, and determining the thickness of the mailpiece based on the number of thickness measurements.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 7, 2009
    Publication date: June 9, 2011
    Applicant: Pitney Bowes Inc.
    Inventors: John E. Richter, John W. Sussmeier
  • Publication number: 20110113641
    Abstract: A point-to-point measurement tool performs the measurement of the distance between the outside surfaces of the shoulders across the back of an individual, which is associated with tailoring custom clothing and utilized to determine both the top-of-sleeve points and used to assist in determining the sleeve length measurements in tailoring custom clothing. Various embodiment of the point-to-point measurement tool can be folded, collapsed, or broken down to enable increased portability and ease of storage of the tool.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 19, 2010
    Publication date: May 19, 2011
    Inventor: Drew Thomas Jones
  • Publication number: 20110099827
    Abstract: In a method for measuring a distance from a base area (5) to a cross section, with a predefined diameter (A), of a tapering area (1.1) of a body (1), which tapering area forms an elevation or depression and has a circular cross-sectional form, a measuring body (3) with a diameter (A) is arranged on the base area (5). The arrangement is effected in such a manner that a distance in the form of a gap (6, X) is formed between the cross-sectional area, with the diameter (A), of the body (1) and the measuring body (3). A fluid medium is pressed through the gap (6, X) and the pressure and/or the flow rate of the fluid medium is/are measured. The distance value is determined in an evaluation device (9) on the basis of the measured pressure and/or the flow rate.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 8, 2009
    Publication date: May 5, 2011
    Inventors: Hans Egger, Werner Tschannen
  • Publication number: 20110094119
    Abstract: A method of classifying a dent on a surface of a shipping container as being in an acceptable or unacceptable classification includes calculating at least one of an acceptable dent depth range corresponding to the acceptable classification and an unacceptable dent depth range corresponding to the unacceptable classification. The method further includes measuring a depth of the dent with a measurement apparatus and comparing the depth with the acceptable and/or unacceptable dent depth ranges to classify the dent in the acceptable or unacceptable classification. The method of classifying the dent on the surface of the shipping container is accurate and repeatable because it includes measuring the depth of the dent and comparing the depth with the acceptable and unacceptable dent depth ranges. The ability to classify dents allows recipients of the shipping containers to consistently accept or reject shipping containers having dents in the acceptable and unacceptable classifications, respectively.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 21, 2009
    Publication date: April 28, 2011
    Inventors: Cortney L. Gregory, Frederick Wheeler, JR.
  • Publication number: 20100242296
    Abstract: An apparatus for evaluating the condition of a lift sling. The apparatus includes a body with an upper section and a lower section. The lower section includes a cradle member with a load bearing surface that engages an inner surface of a connecting link at one end of a sling. The apparatus includes an engagement section that receives and positions the end of a measuring device so that it is in tangential alignment with the load bearing surface of the cradle member. In use, one end of a sling is positioned on the load bearing surface of the cradle member and one end of a measuring device is positioned on the engagement section of the apparatus. The apparatus is then raised so that the sling and the measuring device are hanging freely. The reach of the sling is then measuring using the measuring device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 24, 2009
    Publication date: September 30, 2010
    Inventors: David Camp, Darin Young
  • Publication number: 20100095545
    Abstract: A device for creating a chalk drawing on a surface includes a base adapted to rest on the surface, a housing cover rotatably connected to the base and a direction indicator indicating a rotational position of the housing cover with respect to the base. A tape measure assembly is connected to the housing cover and includes a tape measure that may be moved between extended and contracted conditions. The tape measure includes a distal end portion. A position of the distal end portion of the tape measure and a rotational position of the housing cover with respect to the base establish coordinates for a plot point of the chalk drawing. A method for creating a chalk drawing using the device is also disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 13, 2009
    Publication date: April 22, 2010
    Inventor: John Terence Miller
  • Patent number: 7665223
    Abstract: A measuring device generally comprises a base unit housing an extensible cable; the cable including a free end for placement by a user at a point being measured. The base unit, placed in line of sight of the point, includes: a base; a first carriage rotationally attached to the base about a turn axis; and a second carriage rotationally attached to the first carriage about a pitch axis. Servoed motors rotate the carriages to align them with cable path to the point. The turn angle, the pitch angle and the cable length are measured to determine the point's location. A plurality of points determines a surface. The user uses a programmed PDA with a radio to communicate with the base unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 20, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 23, 2010
    Assignee: Delta II, I.P., Trust
    Inventors: David W. Swanson, William Robert Swanson
  • Publication number: 20090265950
    Abstract: An apparatus prints on a continuous web moving in a process direction. A fiducial marker prints on a portion of the web a repeating pattern of fiducial marks at a predetermined spacing along the process direction. At least two printing stations are operatively disposed downstream of the fiducial marker, each printing station including a printhead for placing marking material suitable for a partial image on the web. A photosensor reads a fiducial mark on the web moving relative to the printing station.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 23, 2008
    Publication date: October 29, 2009
    Applicant: XEROX CORPORATION
    Inventors: Howard A. Mizes, Yongsoon Eun, Songkuk Kim
  • Patent number: 7578072
    Abstract: A digital indicator (1) includes: a main body (10); a spindle (11) being axially slidable and having a contact portion (12) on one end, the contact portion abutting a to-be-measured portion; a detector (13) that detects an absolute displacement amount of the spindle (11) relative to the main body (10); and a display (14) that digitally displays the displacement amount of the spindle (11) relative to the main body (10) detected by the detector 13. The spindle (11) is slidable in a direction away from the contact portion (12) beyond the detectable range of the detector (13).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 26, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 25, 2009
    Assignee: Mitutoyo Corporation
    Inventors: Shuji Hayashida, Aki Hiroshima, Rie Arai, Takefumi Kiwada
  • Publication number: 20090139106
    Abstract: A tape measure has a first scale on one edge of the blade and a second scale on the other edge blade where the second scale is marked in units of length which are equal to the units of the first scale multiplied by the square root of 2. A method to check a right angle measures from a corner to a distal end of a first line using the units of the first scale, measures along a second line an equal length in the first units from the corner and marking a point, by measuring from the distal end to the point using the second scale and by adjusting an angle between the first and second lines at the corner until the distance between the distal end and the point is equal to the length of the first line when measured on the second scale.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 19, 2008
    Publication date: June 4, 2009
    Inventor: Armand Delaurier
  • Publication number: 20090126215
    Abstract: The invention concerns a measuring device for the simultaneous examination (testing) of lengths of at least essentially equal length sections (20) of a rod shaped profile material, whereby two opposite measuring sides (30, 40) can be positioned between at least two sections (20) in longitudinal direction (L) next to each other and can be positioned on an acceptance (10) in a specified bundle and a travel device (90) for at least one of the two measuring sides (30, 40) by which the distance between the two measuring sides can be reduced and is characterized by that at least one of the two measuring sides (30, 40) at a minimum shows one in longitudinal direction (L) aligned relative to a measuring side (30, 40) moveable measuring plunger (60) is shown and one section (20) after the reduction of the distance between the two measuring sides (30, 40) touches with one end exactly one of the measuring plungers (60) and with the other end touches the other measuring side (40).
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 30, 2007
    Publication date: May 21, 2009
    Inventor: Ulrich Rattunde
  • Publication number: 20090067940
    Abstract: A mounting part for mounting spectacle frame components such as lugs can be machined after confirming that a lens thickness at a mounting part-machined portion where the mounting part is machined is equal to or larger than the specified value, and can be installed the spectacle lens components on the spectacle lens with a requested strength. The device, the method for the above, a spectacle lens manufacturing method, and a spectacles manufacturing method are given. The spectacle lens (1) is fed to a lens thickness measuring device (70) by a lens feeder. The fed amount of the spectacle lens in this feeding is based on the measured results of a distance between a frame center forming a block center by a lens holder in an edging for manufacturing the spectacle lens (1) from a raw material lens and the edge face of the spectacle lens (1) where the mounting part is to be machined.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 25, 2005
    Publication date: March 12, 2009
    Inventors: Michio Arai, Masashi Nishioka
  • Patent number: 5175695
    Abstract: An ultrasonic measuring apparatus comprising a master unit and a slave unit each having a respective transmitter circuit for transmitting towards the other unit a burst of ultrasound and each having a respective receiver circuit to detect the burst of ultrasound transmitted by the other unit. The slave unit is responsive to the detection of a burst transmitted by the master unit to transmit a return burst back to the master unit. The master unit includes control means for disabling its receiver circuit during transmission of the said burst to the slave unit and thereafter until the end of a first period of time which is sufficiently long to permit all echoes from the said burst to decay to a level where the master unit receiver circuit is not sensitive enough to detect them.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 10, 1992
    Date of Patent: December 29, 1992
    Assignee: Suparules Limited
    Inventor: Geoff S. B. Czajkowski