Tension Patents (Class 340/668)
  • Patent number: 7567181
    Abstract: A child cushion monitor apparatus provided in two embodiments, a seat insert and a pillow, each providing for detection of occupancy. Each embodiment further provides for temperature sensing and display. Each embodiment is also flexibly coupled to a vibration sensor to detect vibration of a nearby device, auto or otherwise. The keychain provides for function and remote monitoring of the embodiments of the apparatus. Both the seat insert and pillow provide visual display of operable functions of the apparatus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 18, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 28, 2009
    Inventor: Zenobia F. Davison
  • Patent number: 7535374
    Abstract: A cover and method for protecting objects is provided. The cover includes a flexible sheet, wherein the sheet comprises a lower layer of a carbon fiber weave material; and an alarm module attached to the lower layer, wherein the alarm module comprises at least one sensor electrically connected to carbon fibers in the lower layer of the sheet for detecting a change in at least one attribute of the sheet and generating a signal triggering a notification system when the change in the at least one attribute exceeds predetermined maximum threshold levels.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 4, 2006
    Date of Patent: May 19, 2009
    Assignee: The Boeing Company
    Inventor: Lawrence J. Rieders
  • Patent number: 7508304
    Abstract: A vibration detection and/or classification system includes a waveguide in operative contact with a boundary, at least one sensor for sensing vibrations operatively connected to the waveguide and providing a signal, and a control circuit operatively connected to the at least one sensor and adapted for filtering the signal into a plurality of frequency bands and detecting and classifying vibrations. The control circuit may be further adapted for detecting and classifying vibrations to determine if the boundary has been crossed by an intruder. The control circuit may include a transceiver for sending signals to a central computer for processing, such as via a radio modem.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 28, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 24, 2009
    Assignee: The Penn State Research Foundation
    Inventor: David C. Swanson
  • Patent number: 7466237
    Abstract: A door alarm system is provided which activates an alarm when a door (such as the door to the patient's room, a bathroom door within the patient room, etc.) is closed with something (such as a sheet, cord or the like) over the top of door.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 16, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 16, 2008
    Inventor: Francis E. Cook
  • Patent number: 7394354
    Abstract: A system and method of detecting a vehicle trailer. The method includes sensing a first vehicle condition that indicates a movement of the vehicle, and sensing a second vehicle condition that indicates an angle of the vehicle. The method also includes determining a disturbance from the movement and the angle of the vehicle, and detecting a trailer presence when the determined disturbance is above a threshold.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 4, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 1, 2008
    Assignee: Robert Bosch GmbH
    Inventor: Jingsheng Yu
  • Patent number: 7385520
    Abstract: A child restraint system for transporting a child within an automotive vehicle includes a weight sensor for determining the weight of the child and compares the child's weight to a recommended weight range. The weight sensor is disposed within a cushion that lines a shell and provides an electrical signal to a control unit. The control unit processes the electrical signal and provides an alert signal when the weight is not within the recommended range. Also, the child restraint system may include a second sensor for sensing a condition that depends upon the child's weight such as directional orientation or angular orientation of the child restraint system, or location or tension of a vehicle seat belt or tether that secures the child restraint system within the vehicle, or the location or tension of a harness for restraining the child occupant within the child restraint system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 6, 2005
    Date of Patent: June 10, 2008
    Assignee: Delphi Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: James F. Patterson, Stuart S. Sullivan, Duane D. Fortune, William W. Fultz, Kevin D. Kincaid
  • Patent number: 7362231
    Abstract: An ergonomic lightweight hand pressure sensor-warning device for use with hand held objects like sport devices, steering devices, writing devices or computer devices, as well as the method for its assembly. This new hand pressure sensor warning device is designed as a relatively thin plaster/band-aid to attach the device onto the outside surface of the handgrips of hand held devices like a golf club, making the attachment to and detachment from the hand held device very simple and user-friendly. The device contains an electrical membrane switch, an electrical indicator with an alarm device and a streamlined oblong housing element which contains the principal components in a compact unit. Due to its low manufacturing costs, the warning device is also highly attractive as a commercial advertising product and as a corporate gift or premium product. The unintended and unexpected detachment of the device during a golf swing is practically impossible.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 3, 2005
    Date of Patent: April 22, 2008
    Inventor: Arie Cornelis Bos
  • Patent number: 7319400
    Abstract: The instant invention is designed to detect when undue tension is placed on a belt or strap that is connected to a restraining vest, such undue pressure being indicative that a patient may be in trouble. It is preferable that, whatever sensor is used, it should be elastically resilient to return to its unstressed state after tension on the strap is removed. Additionally, it is preferable that the amount of force that is required in order to trigger an alarm be adjustable to accommodate patients of different weights. Finally, it is also preferable that the level of stress on the strap—and the duration over which it is applied—that is necessary to trigger an alarm be such that the patient cannot easily intentionally cause the device to sound an alarm.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 15, 2004
    Date of Patent: January 15, 2008
    Assignee: Bed-Check Corporation
    Inventors: Toby E. Smith, Craig L. Cooper, Sanford G. Fitzgerald
  • Patent number: 7289033
    Abstract: A computed tomography assembly is provided comprising at least one clamped imaging component and a clamping fastener having a clamping head attached thereto. A load-sensing washer is positioned between the clamping head and the at least one clamped imaging component and includes a pressure sensor element in communication with a wireless transmitter transmitting a fastener load value. A wireless receiver is adapted to remotely receive the fastener load value and a processor in communication with the wireless receiver includes logic adapted to monitor the fastener load value in real time.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 30, 2005
    Date of Patent: October 30, 2007
    Assignee: General Electric Co.
    Inventor: Ron K. Hockersmith
  • Patent number: 7233239
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for detecting an improperly installed auxiliary child seat of the type that is secured in a motor vehicle by the seatbelt, and providing an alert to a vehicle operator in the case of improper installation. A seat occupancy sensor, a seatbelt buckle condition sensor, and a seatbelt tension sensor provides electrical signals to a child seat detection module, which determines that an improper installation condition exists if the auxiliary child seat is present and the seatbelt buckle is unfastened. The child seat detection module further determines an improper installation condition if the auxiliary child seat is present, the seatbelt buckle is fastened, and the seatbelt tautness is not within an acceptable range. If an improper installation condition is detected, the child seat detection module triggers an alerting device, such as a warning light on the instrument panel or audible chime.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 4, 2003
    Date of Patent: June 19, 2007
    Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: Janak Chitalia, Joseph Brown, Chris Bujak
  • Patent number: 7224270
    Abstract: A child seat adapted for use in a vehicle, the child seat comprising: a shell portion; a harness for securing a child to the child seat, the harness comprising adjustable harness tether(s) secured to the shell portion at one end and having a latch plate at the other, the latch plate being configured to releasably engage a buckle of the harness; a tension sensor(s) for providing a signal indicative of a tension of the adjustable harness tether(s); and an electronic control unit secured to the shell portion, the electronic control unit being operably coupled to the tension sensor(s) to receive the signal, the electronic control unit being capable of processing the signal to compare the signal to a signal indicative of a predetermined range of acceptable tension, wherein the electronic control unit provides an output indicating whether the tension of the adjustable harness tether(s) is(are) within the predetermined range.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 6, 2005
    Date of Patent: May 29, 2007
    Assignee: Delphi Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: James F. Patterson, Stuart S. Sullivan, Rodney A. Lawrence, Duane D. Fortune, Edward J. Wallner, Stephen B. Porter, William W. Fultz, Kevin D. Kincaid, Gary R. Grieb, Jeffry N. Zolkower
  • Patent number: 7161474
    Abstract: A device for classifying the seat occupancy in a motor vehicle by which the accuracy in the detection of child seats may be increased is provided. The seats of the motor vehicle are each equipped with a safety belt, a belt buckle for the safety belt and a belt-buckle switch. The device includes at least one belt-force sensor for at least one safety belt. According to the present invention, the belt-force sensor and the belt-buckle switch assigned to the respective safety belt are interconnected in such a way that the output signals of the belt-force sensor and the belt-buckle switch are combined into one belt-buckle output signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 31, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 9, 2007
    Assignee: Robert Bosch GmbH
    Inventors: Reiner Marchthaler, Thomas Lich, Frank Mack, Michael Meyer
  • Patent number: 7151452
    Abstract: A vehicle occupancy sensing system provides a mechanism for determining whether a child is present in a vehicle. The sensing system may determine that an occupied front or rear facing child seat is present in an automobile, for example. To that end, the sensing system may employ a reliable electrode sensing system that may be conveniently installed in one or more locations in the vehicle seats. The sensing system thereby helps reduce occurrences of the potentially devastating consequences of unintentionally leaving a child in a vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 5, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 19, 2006
    Assignee: Elesys North America Inc.
    Inventor: Shiuh-An Shieh
  • Patent number: 7135983
    Abstract: The purpose of this invention is to sense the presence of a seated occupant in a vehicle such as an automobile, plane, train or bus, or in a room or location where it is desirable to detect if seats are occupied. The occupant presence detection device consists of a single seat-mounted electrode, an oscillator circuit, a bridge circuit, a detection circuit and a circuit for processing the detected signals. The oscillator circuit excites the electrode. If an occupant is present on the seat, additional capacitance from the human body is introduced into the bridge via the electrode. This created differences in the voltage and phase of the waveform in each arm of the bridge circuit which are amplified by a differential amplifier. The signal is then converted to a DC voltage that, when above a predetermined threshold, causes the device to outputs a signal that indicates the presence of an occupant.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 13, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 14, 2006
    Assignee: Intelligent Mechatronic Systems Inc.
    Inventors: Vladimir Filippov, Kristopher Desrochers, Valeri Stepanov, Otman Adam Basir, Fakhreddine Karray
  • Patent number: 7119704
    Abstract: A machine guarding system generally includes a switch mat in electrical communication with a machine being guarded. The switch mat is adapted to be placed on a floor adjacent the machine being guarded and includes a pressure actuated switch mechanism which causes power to the machine to be terminated when a pressure is applied to the switch mat. The switch mat further includes a status indicator display disposed on a surface of the switch mat which is illuminated based on a status of the machine being guarded. In a preferred embodiment, the machine guarding system further includes a machine control unit for controlling power to the machine being guarded. The switch mat is in electrical communication with the machine control unit, wherein the switch mechanism causes the machine control unit to terminate power to the machine when a pressure is applied to the switch mat. The machine control unit also illuminates the indicator display based on a status of the machine being guarded.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 19, 2004
    Date of Patent: October 10, 2006
    Assignee: Tapeswitch Corporation
    Inventors: John Grzan, Robert Keats
  • Patent number: 7109870
    Abstract: A fishing accessory that includes a housing and an alerting mechanism for alerting a fisherman when a fishing line connected to the activation switch of the alerting mechanism is being tugged on by a fish. The housing includes a housing having a pair of attachment clamps securable to a fishing rod. The alerting mechanism includes multiple types of alarm outputs that may be selected in various combinations by a user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 21, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 19, 2006
    Inventors: Robert R. Reed, Sheldon A. Reed, II
  • Patent number: 7081059
    Abstract: A piston rod position detecting mechanism is proposed which can detect continuously or in a multiple-point manner that the piston rod position has changed due to increase or decrease in the protruding amount of the piston rod due to aging. The protruding amount from a cylinder end wall is detected by a position detecting mechanism comprising a detecting coil housed in a bobbin provided at the cylinder end, a flange portion formed on the piston rod, and a coil spring. Also, an autotensioner and an electromagnetic valve with such a position detector are proposed. Further, a belt tension adjusting device is provided with a detector for detecting the position of a tension pulley which is pivotable with increase or decrease in the belt tension.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 4, 2003
    Date of Patent: July 25, 2006
    Assignee: NTN Corporation
    Inventors: Kenichi Iwamoto, Takashi Koike, Kazuyuki Inokuchi, Motoharu Niki
  • Patent number: 7075450
    Abstract: A vehicle occupant sensing system including a controller and at least one sensor assembly. The sensor assembly has a housing with a base and an upper slide member supported for movement toward and away from the base. At least one sensor is operatively mounted relative to the upper slide member and base. The sensor is operable to detect movement of the upper slide member toward and away from the base and is operable to generate an electrical signal correlative of the movement of the upper slide member toward and away from the base. Additionally, the system includes at least one discrete wire electrically connecting the sensor and controller. The discrete wire is operable to communicate the electric signal from the sensor to the controller. The vehicle occupant sensing system may be employed in a seat assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 2, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 11, 2006
    Assignee: Lear Corporation
    Inventors: Oliver J. Young, John F. Nathan
  • Patent number: 7026946
    Abstract: Method and apparatus for identifying and categorizing the weight and characteristics of the occupant currently occupying a vehicle seat. The method for identifying and categorizing the occupant or object involves measuring the deflection of the upper surface of the seat cushion at several points and therefore the weight distribution of the occupant. The system contains multiple weight sensors arrayed for detecting the distribution of the load causing the seat deflection. The system also includes a sensor to measure ambient temperature, preferably for temperature compensation due to the effects extreme temperatures may have on the compression properties of the seat cushion material and the weight sensors. A system processor interprets the data acquired by the sensors, and utilizes an algorithm and weight tables to simulate a neural network in providing an output a control signal indicative of the categorization of the occupant or object.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 16, 2003
    Date of Patent: April 11, 2006
    Inventors: Darrel Saunders, Lynn Johner, Petr Musilek
  • Patent number: 6989767
    Abstract: A movable barrier operator (10) can have at least two automatic modes of operation. These modes of operation can differ from one another at least with respect to their respective utilized maximum-applied-force thresholds, such that one of the modes of operation correlates to a reduced maximum-applied-force threshold. Selection between these available maximum-applied-force thresholds can be based, at least in part, upon whether an obstacle detector is operably coupled to the movable barrier operator. In one embodiment, a primary controller (30) and a secondary controller (31) can be utilized to effect the controlled selection and usage of the available maximum-applied-force thresholds. In another embodiment, maximum permitted speed of travel for the movable barrier can also be determined, at least in part, as a function of whether an obstacle detector is available to the movable barrier operator.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 29, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 24, 2006
    Assignee: The Chamberlain Group, Inc.
    Inventors: James J. Fitzgibbon, Edward Laird
  • Patent number: 6940417
    Abstract: A wrench with tension meters comprises a handle; two ends of the handles installed clamping portions for receiving respective screwing elements; a center of the handle of the conductor having a first groove; two ends of the first groove near clamping portions being formed with respective second grooves; two connection groove being installed between the first groove and the second grooves, respectively; each connection groove serving for communicating the first groove and a respective one of the two second grooves; an integrated device installed in the first groove; and two tension meters installed in the two second grooves, respectively. The conductors are metals or metal wires.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 6, 2004
    Date of Patent: September 6, 2005
    Inventor: Chin-Ching Hsien
  • Patent number: 6922152
    Abstract: In a passenger weight measuring apparatus, each of bend parts of front and rear brackets for supporting a seat to a vehicle main body side becomes bent and deformed in response to the load applied by the weight of the passenger sit in the seat. A load sensor on each the bend part detects the load based on the bend deformation and outputs a voltage signal of magnitude responsive to the load to a signal processor. The processor generates a load detection signal clamped in the voltage range corresponding to a preset passenger weight load range from the voltage signal and outputs the load detection signal to an output terminal. When the detected load is a collision load set in a load region out of the load range, the processor outputs an abnormal load detection signal different from the load detection signal to the same output terminal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 25, 2002
    Date of Patent: July 26, 2005
    Assignees: Aisin Seiki Kabushiki Kaisha, Toyota Jidosha Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Chiaki Sumi, Koji Aoki, Morio Sakai, Osamu Fujimoto
  • Patent number: 6882281
    Abstract: Weight sensor assemblies for measuring weight on a vehicle seat are mounted at the connecting points between a seat bottom frame and a seat mounting member. The weight sensor assemblies each include a beam member having a bendable center body portion for supporting a stain gage. The strain gage and associated traces are screen printed on the surface of the beam. The beam acts similar to a dual constrained cantilever beam, concentrating the bending at a reduced neck section that narrows in the middle of the center body portion. The strain gage measures strain resulting from bending in the center body portion caused by a weight force being applied against the seat.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 8, 2001
    Date of Patent: April 19, 2005
    Assignee: Siemens VDO Automotive Corporation
    Inventors: Brian M. Curtis, Michael Baker
  • Patent number: 6836213
    Abstract: A taut wire intrusion detection system includes posts that are used to detect an intrusion into a secured area. The supporting posts are used to both detect a movement of the taut wire and anchor the taut wire by using separate anchor and sensor elements. The taut wire system eliminates many of the weaknesses of prior taut wire systems by providing a less variant taut wire sensitivity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 28, 1999
    Date of Patent: December 28, 2004
    Assignee: Safeguards Technology, Inc.
    Inventor: Haim Perry
  • Publication number: 20040239515
    Abstract: A device for classifying the seat occupancy in a motor vehicle by which the accuracy in the detection of child seats may be increased is provided. The seats of the motor vehicle are each equipped with a safety belt, a belt buckle for the safety belt and a belt-buckle switch. The device includes at least one belt-force sensor for at least one safety belt. According to the present invention, the belt-force sensor and the belt-buckle switch assigned to the respective safety belt are interconnected in such a way that the output signals of the belt-force sensor and the belt-buckle switch are combined into one belt-buckle output signal.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 8, 2004
    Publication date: December 2, 2004
    Inventors: Reiner Marchthaler, Thomas Lich, Frank Mack, Michael Meyer
  • Patent number: 6784799
    Abstract: A tension meter and wrench arrangement is constructed to includes a resistance type tension meter and an integrated device installed in a wrench, the integrated device providing a voltage output corresponding to the variation of resistance detected by the tension meter and converting the voltage output into digital signal for display through a display screen, the wrench having a sliding sleeve adapted for protecting the integrated device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 7, 2002
    Date of Patent: August 31, 2004
    Inventor: Chih-Ching Hsien
  • Publication number: 20040092349
    Abstract: A piston rod position detecting mechanism is proposed which can detect continuously or in a multiple-point manner that the piston rod position has changed due to increase or decrease in the protruding amount of the piston rod due to aging. The protruding amount from a cylinder end wall is detected by a position detecting mechanism comprising a detecting coil housed in a bobbin provided at the cylinder end, a flange portion formed on the piston rod, and a coil spring. Also, an autotensioner and an electromagnetic valve with such a position detector are proposed. Further, a belt tension adjusting device is provided with a detector for detecting the position of a tension pulley which is pivotable with increase or decrease in the belt tension.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 4, 2003
    Publication date: May 13, 2004
    Inventors: Kenichi Iwamoto, Takashi Koike, Kazuyuki Inokuchi, Motoharu Niki
  • Patent number: 6731210
    Abstract: A vibration detection and classification system and associated methods are disclosed. The system includes a waveguide in operative contact with a boundary, such as a security fence. At least one sensor for sensing vibrations such as acoustic waves is operatively connected to the waveguide, the waveguide extending the range of the sensor. At least one control circuit is operatively connected to the one or more sensors and is adapted for detecting and classifying vibrations. The method includes securing an area protected by a boundary by mechanically transmitting a vibration from a portion of the boundary to a waveguide, transmitting the vibration along the waveguide to a sensor, sensing the vibration at the sensor, determining at least one characteristic associated with the vibration, and using the at least one characteristic associated with the vibration to determine if the vibration is indicative of an intrusion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 2, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 4, 2004
    Assignee: The Penn State Research Foundation
    Inventors: David C. Swanson, Nicholas C. Nicholas, David Rigsby
  • Publication number: 20040027250
    Abstract: A tension meter and wrench arrangement is constructed to includes a resistance type tension meter and an integrated device installed in a wrench, the integrated device providing a voltage output corresponding to the variation of resistance detected by the tension meter and converting the voltage output into digital signal for display through a display screen, the wrench having a sliding sleeve adapted for protecting the integrated device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 7, 2002
    Publication date: February 12, 2004
    Inventor: Chih-Ching Hsien
  • Patent number: 6671905
    Abstract: A prone positioning therapeutic bed comprises a base frame, a patient support platform rotatably mounted on the base frame for rotational movement about a longitudinal rotational axis, a drive system for rotating the patient support platform on the base frame, and an upright end ring at the head of the bed with a central opening for routing patient care lines and a removable upper section for improved access to a patient's head. The patient support platform preferably has pivotally mounted side rails that fold underneath the patient support platform and straps with strap connectors that indicate whether the straps are sufficiently tensioned. A direct, wired electrical connection between the patient support platform and the base frame allows full rotation of the patient support platform in either direction. A manually operable lever disengages the patient support platform from the drive system to allow manual rotation of the patient support platform.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 29, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 6, 2004
    Assignee: KCI Licensing, Inc.
    Inventors: Alan L. Bartlett, Wladyslaw H. Krywiczanin, Christopher T. Niederkrom
  • Patent number: 6666784
    Abstract: A piston rod position detecting mechanism is proposed which can detect continuously or in a multiple-point manner that the piston rod position has changed due to increase or decrease in the protruding amount of the piston rod due to aging. The protruding amount from a cylinder end wall is detected by a position detecting mechanism comprising a detecting coil housed in a bobbin provided at the cylinder end, a flange portion formed on the piston rod, and a coil spring. Also, an autotensioner and an electromagnetic valve with such a position detector are proposed. Further, a belt tension adjusting device is provided with a detector for detecting the position of a tension pulley which is pivotable with increase or decrease in the belt tension.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 5, 2000
    Date of Patent: December 23, 2003
    Assignee: NTN Corporation
    Inventors: Kenichi Iwamoto, Takashi Koike, Kazuyuki Inokuchi, Motoharu Niki
  • Patent number: 6661341
    Abstract: A seat-occupant sensing device for a car seat is provided, such that a heater can be installed in the seat without deterioration of sitting comfort. A load sensor is mounted to a cushion frame of a car seat. The end of a flexible cushion support is linked with the load sensor. Because the flexible cushion support flexes when a person sits on the seat, the load sensor detects the moment when the person sits on the seat.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 6, 2001
    Date of Patent: December 9, 2003
    Assignee: NHK Spring Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Ko Masuda, Katsutoshi Sasaki, Ken Obata, Hiroyuki Yamazaki, Takuya Nishimoto
  • Patent number: 6646557
    Abstract: A fishing pole holder in which a cradle is normally supported at an obtuse angle relative to a stable surface by a support member. A bite on the bait or lure at the end of a line from the pole results in a tug on the pole which releases the cradle, causing the cradle to engage the support member thereby actuating a signal to the fisherman that he or she has a bite on the line.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 21, 2001
    Date of Patent: November 11, 2003
    Inventor: Bill G. Brake
  • Patent number: 6646551
    Abstract: A taut wire intrusion detection system includes posts that are used to detect an intrusion into a secured area. The supporting posts are used to both detect a movement of the taut wire and anchor the taut wire by using separate anchor and sensor elements. The taut wire system eliminates many of the weaknesses of prior taut wire systems by providing a less variant taut wire sensitivity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 8, 2001
    Date of Patent: November 11, 2003
    Inventor: Haim Perry
  • Patent number: 6646563
    Abstract: A deflection sensor for a taut wire perimeter fence detection system, which can be installed after the fence wire has been installed easily, and the sensor the operates in line with the wire tension. The sensor includes a plate member adapted to be pivotally mounted, a first wire attachment point at one end of said plate member, a second wire attachment point remote from said first wire attachment point and a transducer or sensor element located on said plate member between the attachment points. The taut wire type detection system including at least one taut wire for a perimeter fence supported by a plurality of posts, at least one deflection sensor being pivotally mounted to one of the posts or a support thereon and a sensor processing circuit for interrogating the at least one deflection sensor and to provide an alarm indication on tampering of the at least one taut wire or the at least one deflection sensor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 1, 2001
    Date of Patent: November 11, 2003
    Assignee: Gryffin Pty. Ltd.
    Inventors: Nigel James Sinclair Buckley, Gregory Richard Hellard
  • Publication number: 20030174055
    Abstract: Tension alert device is used with a load secured to a vehicle load bed, which has a securing belt having a connector portion and an attachment link. The device includes a connector sleeve, with an axial bore and a sleeve end portion, which is connected to the link. A first contacter connects to an inner end portion of the sleeve and faces into the axial bore. A second contacter slides in the bore along a restricted path of travel and has a second load bed connector. The second contacter faces the first contacter and is urged away from it when the belt has a first tension threshold value. The first contacter has an electrical signal generator for producing an electrical signal, which is activated when the second contacter is biased against it when the belt attains a second threshold tension value.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 14, 2003
    Publication date: September 18, 2003
    Inventor: Maurice Tardif
  • Patent number: 6616378
    Abstract: A device (6) for attachment to a pipe (7) to be installed in the ground has load cells (17) for detecting a pulling force applied to the pipe (7), as the latter is pulled through the ground, an inclinometer (18), for detecting the inclination of the device (6), and a pressure transducer (20) for detecting the pressure surrounding the device. Data representative of the pulling force, inclination and pressure is stored in the device (6) and protected against unauthorised access by a security code or procedure, so that a verifiable record of the pipe installation process is available.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 27, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 9, 2003
    Assignee: Staploe Limited
    Inventors: Simon Charles Coote Turner, Martin David Warner
  • Publication number: 20030128127
    Abstract: A method and system for monitoring tension associated with a robot-controlled belt utilized in a semiconductor wafer polishing apparatus. A belt tension monitor can be adapted for use with the semiconductor wafer polishing apparatus to detect a variable tension of the robot-controlled belt. An upper tension limit and a lower tension limit of the robot-controlled belt may then be monitored utilizing the belt tension monitor to prevent a breakage of the robot-controlled belt during a semiconductor wafer polishing operation thereby extending a life of the robot-controlled belt. The belt tension monitor can be installed at an inertial pulley of a robot associated with the semiconductor wafer polishing apparatus to detect the variable tension of the robot-controlled belt.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 9, 2002
    Publication date: July 10, 2003
    Applicant: Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Chin-Tsan Jan
  • Patent number: 6590402
    Abstract: An engine oil contamination sensor includes a first sensing electrode and a second sensing electrode. A sensing area is established between the electrodes. The sensor is oriented in an oil pan such that the sensing are is completely submerged in engine oil. A microprocessor is connected to the sensing electrodes and includes a program for determining whether antifreeze is dispersed in the engine oil.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 2, 2001
    Date of Patent: July 8, 2003
    Assignee: Delphi Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Su-Chee Simon Wang, Yingjie Lin
  • Patent number: 6563429
    Abstract: A weight detector for detecting the weight of a passenger seated on a vehicle seat includes a first load sensor and a second load sensor provided on opposite sides of a rear portion of the vehicle seat. Each of the first and second load sensors has a predetermined detection range. The weight detector further includes a third load sensor and a fourth load sensor provided on opposite sides of a front portion of the vehicle seat. Each of the third and fourth load sensors has a predetermined detection range. If a detection value based on a load acquired by one of the first through fourth load sensors exceeds its detection range, the weight detector uses an old value that was determined under proper condition. Otherwise, the weight detector determines the size of the passenger based on the currently detected values.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 25, 2001
    Date of Patent: May 13, 2003
    Assignees: Aisin Seiki Kabushiki Kaisha, Toyota Jidosha Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Morio Sakai, Koji Aoki, Kazunori Sakamoto, Osamu Fujimoto
  • Patent number: 6452495
    Abstract: This invention is relating to a barbed wire, of which one strand is a conventional iron wire, and the other strand is a conductor embedded plastic wire that includes a conductor covered by a sturdy plastic insulator. The purpose of using a conductor embedded plastic wire is that it can be used for an alarm system where high security is demanded. This invention provides easier manufacturing process and simpler method for the application of the barbed wire to an alarm system than the products of prior art of U.S. Pat. No. 4,317,955. Therefore, this invention is less expensive to produce the product.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 27, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 17, 2002
    Inventor: Sang J. Choi
  • Patent number: 6424261
    Abstract: A sensor system is provided for use in detecting movement of an item, e.g. a picture 16, suspended from a wall or other substantially vertical structure, or for detecting movement of an item displayed or stored on a horizontal or inclined surface, the sensor system including a piezoceramic element (22) which is mounted on a metallic disc (23) which, in use, is located between the item (16) and the structure or surface, and means for detecting the generation of an output by the piezoceramic element (22) as a result of deflection of the disc (23) in either of two opposite directions as a result of movement of the item (16).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 26, 2001
    Date of Patent: July 23, 2002
    Assignee: Staplethorne Xtra Sense Limited
    Inventors: Philip Elphee Williams, Peter John Jones, Peter Jonathan Hutcheson
  • Patent number: 6392551
    Abstract: A synthetic fiber cable, preferably of polyamide material, consists of a bundle of load-bearing synthetic material fibers and at least one conductive temperature sensor element extending a length of the cable. The temperature sensor element forms, in dependence on the temperature, a conductive connection over the length of the cable, which connection is constantly monitored by a measurement circuit. The connection is interrupted at a checking circuit in the case of temperatures critical for the synthetic fiber cable. The temperature sensor element can be a fine wire melting at the critical temperature. The synthetic fiber cable can be used in elevator installations amongst other things as a safety device, especially as a fire alarm.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 20, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 21, 2002
    Assignee: Inventio AG
    Inventor: Claudio De Angelis
  • Patent number: 6271760
    Abstract: A human body detector for a seat which does not deteriorate comfort of sitting even when it is disposed on the seat, has a high sensitivity and can be easily fitted to the seat. Vibration detection means (5) is disposed in such a manner that even when a person is seated, the means (5) comes into contact with the bottom surface of a seat pad (16) of a seat (19) and accordingly the person does not feel the means (5). According to this construction, the human body does not easily feel the means (5) by the provision of the seat pad (16), the existence of the vibration detection means (5) is hardly felt even when the hardness and the shape are changed, and various measures for improving the sensitivity of the vibration detection means (5) can be taken. The vibration detection means (5) may be merely bonded to the seat pad (16) or may be fixed to a seat spring (17) or a seat frame (18), and can be fitted more easily to the seat (19) than when it is disposed below a surface cloth (15) of the seat (19).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 5, 1999
    Date of Patent: August 7, 2001
    Assignee: Matsushita Electric Industrial Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Yoshiaki Watanabe, Hiroyuki Ogino, Masahiro Inoue, Kenji Yoshinaga, Takashi Iwasa
  • Patent number: 6211793
    Abstract: A load sensor for a vehicle safety belt 10 comprises means for determining an electrical characteristic of the belt 10 and control means for comparing the sensed characteristic with a reference level for the characteristic. In one embodiment, conductive fibers 26, 28 are interwoven into the belt 10 and electrical contacts 30, 32 are provided at each end thereof. Excessive loading of the belt results in a break in the fibers 26, 28 which, in turn, results in electrical discontinuity. The discontinuity is sensed by an electrical sensor and indicator means is provided to indicate to the driver of the vehicle that a belt has been excessively loaded.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 29, 1998
    Date of Patent: April 3, 2001
    Assignee: Breed Automotive Technology, Inc.
    Inventor: Alan Smithson
  • Patent number: 6177876
    Abstract: A Pressure Sensitive Alarm Component is provided and includes a pressure plate and a base plate. Within the base plate are the pressure plate truss assemblies, the weight transfer assembly, and the sliding switch assembly. The weight transfer assembly includes a load transfer arm which moves back and forth as weight is placed on or removed from the pressure plate and a dial to adjust the position of the load transfer arm. The sliding switch assembly includes a sliding contact support arm which is rigidly linked to the load transfer arm. The sliding switch assembly further includes a plurality of stationary contacts incorporated into a base plate, and two sliding contacts mounted on the sliding contact support arm. The sliding contacts may move along the stationary contacts and open and close the control circuit as they come in out of contact with different pairs of stationary contacts.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 22, 1999
    Date of Patent: January 23, 2001
    Inventor: Stephen Krueger
  • Patent number: 6005485
    Abstract: An arrangement, having at least one motion sensor in the vehicle seat, detects with a high reliability whether or not the vehicle seat is occupied by a person. For this purpose, the sensor output signal is analyzed into multiple signal components by frequency selection, and decision-making criterion for occupancy or non-occupancy of the vehicle seat by a passenger is formed by comparing the frequency-selective signal components.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 29, 1998
    Date of Patent: December 21, 1999
    Assignee: Robert Bosch GmbH
    Inventors: Frank Kursawe, Helmut Flaig
  • Patent number: 5986552
    Abstract: A fish bite detecting and warning device for alerting a fisher when a fish has been hooked on a fishing line. The device includes a housing with a downwardly extending support shaft for insertion into the ground. The housing has at least one elongate slot therethrough. At least one primary switch is provided in the housing. The primary switch has a pivoting actuating arm which is extended through the slot of the housing. The actuating arm is pivotable between a raised position and a lowered position and is biased towards the lowered position. An outwardly extending guide member is located beneath the slot. The guide member has a plurality of grooves for receiving the fishing line looped beneath the adjacent actuating arm. A computer processor for generating signals is located in the housing and is electrically connected to the primary switch. An alerting light source is provided in the housing and electrically connected to the computer processor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 13, 1998
    Date of Patent: November 16, 1999
    Inventor: Robert L. Lyons
  • Patent number: 5914658
    Abstract: A crime prevention display device is disclosed which includes a casing (21) provided therein with a chuck mechanism (20) for gripping a wire (W) inserted therethrough, a crime prevention alarm circuit (3) connected to the casing and a load detection means (40, 66, 25) for detecting a variation in load applied from an exhibit to the device. The load detection means (40) detects that removal of the exhibit held on the display device causes the device to be unloaded, so that the crime prevention alarm circuit (3) generates an alarm, leading to warning of the abnormality. Also, the crime prevention alarm circuit (3) generates an alarm sound, which is then collected by a sound wave receiver, followed by inputting of the alarm sound to a centralized control equipment (13), so that it may positively exhibit a crime prevention alarm function without causing any malfunction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 9, 1997
    Date of Patent: June 22, 1999
    Inventor: Hideo Arakawa
  • Patent number: 5852402
    Abstract: A taut wire fence system comprises wire-supporting anchor posts that maintain the taut wires of the system in tension. Sensor posts having tension sensors mounted therein are positioned between pairs of anchor posts to monitor changes in tension caused by intrusion attempts. To protect against attempts to bypass the tension sensors (such as by cutting the taut wires while using a frame device to maintain wire tension), one or more tensioned cable segments are provided in tension between the anchor posts (preferably along the lower portion of the fence) to form an electrical path. An electrical monitoring device is then used to monitor the continuity of the electrical path. The tensioned cable segments are preferably formed from a special cable that includes an outer layer which forms a physical barrier to cutting.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 5, 1998
    Date of Patent: December 22, 1998
    Assignee: Safeguards technology, inc.
    Inventor: Haim Perry