Maintenance Patents (Class 702/184)
  • Patent number: 8554386
    Abstract: Techniques for providing localized power infrastructure and data infrastructure are disclosed. A transportable system for providing localized power infrastructure and data infrastructure can include: a data network service engine configured to function as a local data network service provider; a power generation engine configured to function as a local power service provider that generates and distributes power locally; a deployment engine configured to assist in deploying one or more components of the transportable system; and a maintenance engine configured to maintain operation and security of the transportable system. In some embodiments, multiple transportable systems can be deployed and then centrally monitored or controlled as a single, utility system and/or a single data delivery infrastructure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 2, 2011
    Date of Patent: October 8, 2013
    Inventor: Serge Rutman
  • Patent number: 8549363
    Abstract: A processor-implemented method for determining aging of a processing unit in a processor the method comprising: calculating an effective aging profile for the processing unit wherein the effective aging profile quantifies the effects of aging on the processing unit; combining the effective aging profile with process variation data, actual workload data and operating conditions data for the processing unit; and determining aging through an aging sensor of the processing unit using the effective aging profile, the process variation data, the actual workload data, architectural characteristics and redundancy data, and the operating conditions data for the processing unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 19, 2010
    Date of Patent: October 1, 2013
  • Patent number: 8543283
    Abstract: Radio frequency identification is used in cooperation with the computer system aboard a motor vehicle to track service and maintenance activities relating to the vehicle. Each component or part of the vehicle that may require maintenance is provided with a unique passive identification tag. The output data from the tag is read by a reader placed in proximity to the tag, and the data is transmitted to an on-board computer module where it is processed, and the service record is updated. A data stream converter may be used to process the information read by the reader into a format that is acceptable to the on-board computer. The data from the on-board computer is stored in a device external to the computer. Provisions are included for notification to the user, the auto dealer or service other agency as needed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 11, 2012
    Date of Patent: September 24, 2013
    Assignee: International Business Machines Corporation
    Inventors: Gregory J. Boss, Peter G. Finn, Rick A. Hamilton, II, Brian M. O'Connell, James W. Seaman, Keith R. Walker
  • Patent number: 8538401
    Abstract: A mobile terminal including a wireless communication unit configured to wirelessly communicate with at least one other terminal; a touchscreen configured to display information and receive touch inputs; a sensor unit configured to detect a gravity characteristic of the mobile terminal; and a controller configured to output a user-settable gravity sensitivity threshold option for setting a gravity detected sensitivity of the sensor unit, to receive a selection signal indicating a selection of a first gravity sensitivity threshold, to determine the mobile terminal is in a state of falling when the detected gravity characteristic of the mobile terminal is less than or equal to the selected first gravity sensitivity threshold, and to automatically execute a predetermined function mapped to the determined falling state.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 12, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 17, 2013
    Assignee: LG Electronics Inc.
    Inventors: Jonghwan Kim, Hyunghoon Oh, Jongseok Park
  • Patent number: 8531501
    Abstract: Embodiments of the invention are directed to a system and method for assisting a service representative an enterprise. A device operated by an agent and a mobile communication device operated by an expert may be associated by a registration at a server. An indication of required assistance may be provided to the mobile communication device. The mobile communication device may included in a session already including a device operated by the agent and a device operated by a customer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 1, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 10, 2013
    Assignee: Nice-Systems Ltd.
    Inventors: Leon Portman, David Geffen, Nadav Doron, Itay Grushka
  • Patent number: 8527215
    Abstract: Automated inspection system and method are provided for nondestructive inspection and evaluation of an electrically-conductive workpiece based on induction thermography. A movable carriage (15) may be arranged to translate the workpiece in an inspection location (18). An induction coil 20 is disposed at the inspection location. The induction coil is responsive to an excitation current to induce a flow of electrical current in a region of interest of the workpiece. A thermographic camera (22) is disposed at the inspection location. The thermographic camera is arranged to capture data indicative of a thermal response resulting from the flow of electrical current. A computer system (30) is configured to process the data from the thermographic camera to generate an indication of a presence of a discontinuity (e.g., a subsurface crack) in the workpiece.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 13, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 3, 2013
    Assignee: Siemens Energy, Inc.
    Inventors: Johannes L. Vrana, Hubert Mooshofer, Matthias Goldammer, Max Rothenfusser, Wolfgang Heine
  • Patent number: 8521475
    Abstract: A method and apparatus in a data processing system. The apparatus includes a performance event record generation component for generating a performance event record according to the system clock for a performance event monitored in the data processing system and a performance event record storage component for storing the performance event record generated by the performance event record generation component. The method in a data processing system according to the present invention includes the steps of: generating a performance event record based on the system clock for a performance event monitored in the data processing system; storing the generated performance event record; and arbitrating the storage conflict when multiple performance event records are generated at the same time in the step of generating a performance event record, in order to determine the storage order of the performance event records.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 17, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 27, 2013
    Assignee: International Business Machines Corporation
    Inventors: Guohui Lin, Qiang Liu, Yudong Yang
  • Patent number: 8521474
    Abstract: A diagnostic system for use in a bank note processing machine, and a method of use. The system includes a plurality of operating condition sensors positioned to monitor areas of interest within the machine. A CPU automatically reads the sensors to obtain an initial baseline reading against which operating data is compared. Decisions are made based upon this comparison.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 10, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 27, 2013
    Assignee: Toshiba International Corporation
    Inventor: Sohail Kayani
  • Publication number: 20130218514
    Abstract: Described herein are embodiments of methods and systems of monitoring electrical brushes in electrical rotating machinery. One embodiment of the method comprises continuously measuring at least one parameter associated with an electrical brush; and determining, using the at least one continuously measured parameter associated with the electrical brush, maintenance for the electrical brush.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 22, 2012
    Publication date: August 22, 2013
    Inventors: Sascha Schieke, Aditi Yogin Koppikar, Mark Andrew Sporer, Chongchan Lee
  • Publication number: 20130218523
    Abstract: The invention relates to a predictive maintenance method for a cooled detection module, comprising: a detector (1) comprising a matrix consisting of pixels that are sensitive to light signals; a cryostat (2) containing the detector (1); and a cooling machine (3), said method being characterized in that it comprises a step according to which a processing board (4) of the module, which is electrically connected to the detector (1), to the cryostat (2), and to the cooling machine (3) measures, stores, and processes at least: one motor current, i.e. a supply current of the machine (3); one motor voltage, i.e. a supply voltage of the machine (3); and a number of defective pixels of the detector (1). The invention further relates to a module for implementing the invention.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 18, 2011
    Publication date: August 22, 2013
    Inventors: Aubry Picard, Thomas Tillard
  • Publication number: 20130211784
    Abstract: A method and system include a switch to provide power to a vehicle barrier, A logic based controller is coupled to the switch, and an input device coupled to the logic based controller. A sensor is coupled to the vehicle barrier to provide vehicle barrier performance and maintenance data. The maintenance data may be used to identify maintenance activities to be performed prior to failure of the vehicle barrier.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 13, 2012
    Publication date: August 15, 2013
    Applicant: Cinch Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Joel Curtis Christianson, Bryan L. Peterson
  • Publication number: 20130211785
    Abstract: Method, system and computer software for diagnosing a compressor. The method includes generating a feature vector of the compressor, the feature vector of the compressor including components describing states of various parts of the compressor; determining, based on fuzzy constraints, an aggregated anomaly vector corresponding to the feature vector; defining rules for a preset list of possible faults/failure modes of the compressor; calculating a corroborating measure between the aggregated anomaly vector and the rules; and identifying a fault/failure mode of the compressor based on a result of the corroborating measure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 5, 2010
    Publication date: August 15, 2013
    Inventors: Piero Patrone Bonissone, Xiao Hu, David Bianucci, Lorenzo Salusti, Alessio Fabbri, Feng Xue, Viswanath Avasarala, Gianni Mochi, Alberto Pieri
  • Publication number: 20130211786
    Abstract: A fuel cell power generation apparatus (1) includes an installation environment information inputting section (25), a notification device (26) and a controller (23). The controller (23) is configured to set a first period between a maintenance time and a notification time based on the installation environment information input by an installation environment information inputting section.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 7, 2012
    Publication date: August 15, 2013
    Applicant: PANASONIC CORPORATION
    Inventors: Hiroaki Kaku, Shinji Miyauchi, Hitoshi Oishi, Rui Zhang
  • Patent number: 8510476
    Abstract: A system for accessing data remotely from a network. In one embodiment, the system comprises a first network interface card permitting data transfer between a local network and an intermediate network; a second network interface card permitting data transfer between intermediate network and a remote network; and a module located within the intermediate network, through which all data transferring between the first network and the third network must pass. Information transmitted by the remote network may or may not be received and acted upon by the local network depending on a set of predetermined criteria applied by the intermediate network.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 12, 2002
    Date of Patent: August 13, 2013
    Assignee: Brooks Automation, Inc.
    Inventor: Roger Eastvold
  • Patent number: 8509956
    Abstract: A wind turbine configuration management system, a central computer system and a method is provided. The configuration management system includes a central computer system and a wind turbine control system controlling a wind turbine. The central computer system is coupled to the wind turbine control system over a communication network. A processing unit of the central computer is configured to periodically request configuration data from the wind turbine control system, receive configuration data from the wind turbine control system and to compare the received configuration data to a stored data.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 8, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 13, 2013
    Assignee: Siemens Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventor: Michael Jensen
  • Publication number: 20130204579
    Abstract: A method for state monitoring of a wind energy installation, includes normalizing state data relating to a number of different components of the wind energy installation on the basis of a predetermined data norm. The normalized state data is stored in a database device, and the state data which is stored in the database device is assessed by means of processing device, with the state of the components of the wind energy installation being determined on the basis of the assessment.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 24, 2011
    Publication date: August 8, 2013
    Applicant: Robert Bosch GmbH
    Inventors: Peter Volkmer, Daniel Volkmer, Frank Mueller
  • Patent number: 8504225
    Abstract: Method for determining the remaining service life of a component of a vehicle, in particular a railway vehicle, operated on at least one predefined track section of a track network, wherein the remaining service life is determined for a vehicle component of the vehicle mechanically stressed by the interaction between the vehicle and the track section, after a usage interval of the at least one track section, wherein the remaining service life of the vehicle component is determined from a prior loss of service life preset at the beginning of the usage interval for the vehicle component and from a current loss of service life of the vehicle component associated with the usage interval, and wherein the current loss of service life is determined using an actual measured usage of the at least one track section by the vehicle and a relative loss of service life related to the actual usage of the at least one track section, wherein the relative loss of service life has been determined in advance for the at least one
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 16, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 6, 2013
    Assignee: Bombardier Transportation GmbH
    Inventors: Guido Bieker, Ralf Heckmann, Mike Baert, Marc Breemeersch
  • Publication number: 20130191076
    Abstract: A monitoring and diagnostic (M&D) center includes continuous monitoring systems (CMS) for one or more remote sites. Measurement data taken at the remote site(s) is used to generate and analyze output. An on-site validation tool performs diagnostics and prognostics with output generated over different periods of time with different algorithms to generate recommendations regarding hardware upgrades, design improvements, or modified maintenance schedule.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 20, 2012
    Publication date: July 25, 2013
    Applicant: GENERAL ELECTRIC COMPANY
    Inventors: Xiaomo Jiang, William Theadore Fisher, Craig Joseph Foster, Difei Wang, Michael Wesley Yarnold
  • Patent number: 8494811
    Abstract: A service condition, a cause of a malfunction, or another aspect of a device in a large group of devices to be managed can be analyzed in an accurate and efficient manner. A complete test involving the entire number of devices in a large group of managed devices (T) is periodically performed to determine whether the devices are operating normally or have a malfunction; a test result (Ic) is recorded for each cycle of the complete test, and a device that has been found to be malfunctioning is repaired or replaced; and analysis data G, E are created showing a malfunctioning frequency (N) of each of the managed devices (T) on the basis of the test result (Ic) of the complete test that spans a plurality of cycles.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 25, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 23, 2013
    Assignee: TLV Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Yoshiyasu Fujiwara, Kazunori Oda
  • Patent number: 8489343
    Abstract: Some embodiments of the present invention provide a system that detects the presence of constrained motion in one or more components in a computer system. First, a vibrational spectrum of the computer system is monitored while the computer system operates. Then, the vibrational spectrum is analyzed using a pattern-recognition model to detect constrained motion in one or more components in the computer system, wherein the pattern-recognition model classifies the vibrational spectrum as indicating constrained motion or as not indicating constrained motion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 12, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 16, 2013
    Assignee: Oracle America, Inc.
    Inventors: Aleksey M. Urmanov, Anton A. Bougaev, David K. McElfresh
  • Patent number: 8478548
    Abstract: A vibration data collection and rotating machinery fault diagnostic instrument includes a machine setup engine, a measurement engine, a diagnostic engine, a measurement user interface module, a machine setup user interface module, and a diagnostic user interface module. The machine setup engine requests and receives parameters about the machinery through the machine setup user interface module. The measurement engine requests and receives sensor placement locations through the measurement user interface module and keeps track of locations that have been measured and locations that still need to be measured. The diagnostic engine diagnoses machinery faults and presents the information to the user through the diagnostic user interface module using an intuitive graphical severity scale.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 15, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 2, 2013
    Assignee: Fluke Corporation
    Inventors: Eric Hudson, Demet Namli, Rand Peterson, Joseph Ferrante
  • Patent number: 8467993
    Abstract: A method for monitoring a fleet comprising a plurality of measurement tools includes collecting data for a current time interval from the fleet by a data collection module; and performing fleet measurement precision (FMP)/tool matching precision (TMP) analysis on the collected data by a FMP/TMP analysis module, wherein FMP/TMP analysis comprises determining a TMP for each of the plurality of measurement tools using a static and a dynamic benchmark measuring system (BMS); and determining a FMP for the fleet using the static and the dynamic BMS; and determining if the FMP is above a predetermined threshold by a fleet improvement module, and in the event the FMP is above the predetermined threshold, identifying at least one tool of the plurality of tools as poorly performing based on the TMPs; and flagging the identified at least one tool for improvement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 14, 2010
    Date of Patent: June 18, 2013
    Assignee: International Business Machines Corporation
    Inventors: Charles Archie, Andrew Brendler, Dmitriy Shneyder, Eric Solecky
  • Patent number: 8464168
    Abstract: A device management utility is described that includes a generalized graphical user interface facilitating access to a variety of resources associated with selected device types. In particular, the utility includes information interfaces communicatively linking the utility of a variety of data sources. In addition, the utility includes a graphical user interface display providing a variety of information associated with a selected device type. Such information includes device identification information, links to supplemental resources, and a set of screen selection controls for exposing multiple functional modes of operation of the device management utility.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 5, 2005
    Date of Patent: June 11, 2013
    Assignee: Invensys Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Scott S. Bump, Richard L. Linscott, Nestor J. Camino, Jr., Vladimir Kostadinov, Charles W. Piper, Johan I. Tegnell
  • Patent number: 8463450
    Abstract: An aggregated management system for managing a commodity, such as electricity or gas, is disclosed. The system includes: a plurality of commodity resources; an availability calculator; a resource aggregator, wherein each resource, depending on availability data from the availability calculator, is aggregated to represent an aggregated resource; a resource controller, wherein each commodity resource, depending on availability, is selectively operated by the resource controller in response to a resource instruction; and an interlace to provide information regarding the aggregated resource and receive resource instructions regarding the aggregated resource for the resource controller.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 21, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 11, 2013
    Assignee: Flexitricity Limited
    Inventor: Alastair Martin
  • Patent number: 8457927
    Abstract: In the change from lean to rich exhaust gas or vice versa, signals are recorded by a lambda probe and are used to diagnose the functional reliability of this lambda probe. So that special reliability of this procedure is ensured, the change is triggered by an event. The event can be defined by signals of the lambda probe or can be caused by control actions of the operator in the motor vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 15, 2010
    Date of Patent: June 4, 2013
    Assignee: Audi AG
    Inventor: Bodo Odendall
  • Publication number: 20130138396
    Abstract: A system and method for monitoring and managing utility devices is provided where performance data for each utility device is compared against performance criteria. A deficiency value is assigned to each utility device based on the comparison, and a composite deficiency surface is generated based on the deficiency values. The areas of the composite deficiency surface are classified into deficiency classes. A particular area on the composite deficiency surface associated with a particular deficiency class is identified, and a priority index for the identified area is determined based on the particular deficiency value. One or more of the identified areas of the composite deficiency surface are classified into one or more construction projects based on the priority index for the corresponding area, and at least one of the one or more construction projects is recommended to a user.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 23, 2013
    Publication date: May 30, 2013
    Inventors: Paul Hauffen, Sreeresh Sreedhar
  • Patent number: 8452556
    Abstract: A method of determining a state-of-charge for a battery is provided. A startup state-of-charge of the battery is determined as a function of a present open circuit voltage measurement for a present ignition startup, at least one open circuit voltage observation of a previous ignition startup, and a current draw integration over a time period from a previous ignition startup event to a present ignition startup event. A run state-of-charge change of the battery is determined for an ignition key-on operation. The run state-of-charge change comprises a difference between the present open circuit voltage measurement and the at least one previous open circuit voltage observation, and is determined in response to of a current draw integration over a respective period of time. The state-of-charge of the battery is calculated based on a function of the startup state-of-charge and the run state-of-charge change of the battery.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 22, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 28, 2013
    Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations LLC
    Inventors: Yilu Zhang, Kwang-Keun Shin, Xidong Tang, Mutasim A. Salman
  • Patent number: 8452479
    Abstract: Disclosed is a device and method for providing service interval notifications to a vehicle operator, and to incorporate relevant vehicle operating conditions which most directly impact the longevity of engine lubrication and other wear prone components of vehicles. Wear prone conditions which are determined include city driving, frequency of “cold” starts, frequency of “winter” “cold” starts, and high load high grade travel. The device and method utilize as a primary input a location aware sensor device and as a secondary input a source for the ambient temperature either retrieved from an Internet source or a local ambient temperature sensor. No direct vehicle sensor is utilized for the service interval adjustment performed by the device and method.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 12, 2011
    Date of Patent: May 28, 2013
    Assignee: Kaarya, LLC
    Inventors: Ujjual Nath, Gaurav Sharma, William Fletcher, Douglas MacGlashan, Brian Billett
  • Patent number: 8453016
    Abstract: Methods for managing response data within an information handling system (IHS), where the method includes the step of obtaining response data from at least one component in the IHS, the response data generated in response to receiving a command. The method also includes accumulating the response data from the at least one component to compute a total response time.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 23, 2007
    Date of Patent: May 28, 2013
    Assignee: Dell Products L.P.
    Inventor: William F. Sauber
  • Patent number: 8447567
    Abstract: A method of measuring the performance of a DSL line provides an indication of potential faults in the line. Analysis of broadband DSL is less straightforward than for other technologies, since “normal” behavior depends on a number of factors, including line length and line quality, where normal behavior for a long line could be regarded as poor for a short line. The data transmission characteristics of a DSL line under test are measured with reference to its upstream line attenuation, then the results are compared with the model for the corresponding data transmission characteristic. A performance measure is calculated for each characteristic indicative of the difference between the measured characteristic and the observed ‘average’ for other lines having the same upstream line attenuation. A final line performance indicator is calculated based on the combination of all the individual performance measures, which provides a quantitative measure of a line's performance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 18, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 21, 2013
    Assignee: British Telecommunications public limited company
    Inventors: Philip M Bull, David M Rohlfing
  • Patent number: 8442802
    Abstract: A method of diagnosing an air conditioner and mobile terminal equipment for performing the method are provided. The method of diagnosing the air conditioner using mobile terminal equipment includes beginning diagnosis of the air conditioner, displaying a diagnostic result of the air conditioner on a screen, and displaying a countermeasure for the diagnostic result.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 14, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 14, 2013
    Assignee: LG Electronics Inc.
    Inventors: Dongwon Sung, Deok Huh, Jiwoong Kim, Gilbong Lee
  • Patent number: 8438117
    Abstract: A method and system for managing a service level of a service provided by a service provider to a customer under a service level agreement. The actual measurement data is adjudicated to correct the measurement data in accordance with at least one adjudication element that provides information relating to how to correct the measurement data. The adjudicated measurement data is transformed into operational data by being reorganized into one or more groups of data. The operational data is evaluated by applying a formula to the operational data, resulting in the operational data being configured for being subsequently qualified. The operational data is qualified by comparing the evaluated operational data with specified service level targets for at least one service level period and identifying operational data points meeting and/or not meeting the specified service level targets.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 20, 2005
    Date of Patent: May 7, 2013
    Assignee: International Business Machines Corporation
    Inventors: Jean-Marc Berthaud, Melissa Buco, Rong N. Chang, Joel D. Dalsky, Shih-Chung Fang, Laura Zaihua Luan, Lee Tsiao, Christopher Ward
  • Patent number: 8436626
    Abstract: An embodiment is a method for de-embedding. The method comprises forming a primary structure in a semiconductor chip and forming an auxiliary structure in the semiconductor chip. The auxiliary structure replicates a first portion of the primary structure. The method further comprises determining a transmission matrix for each of the primary structure and the auxiliary structure based on measurements and extracting a transmission matrix of a first component of the primary structure by determining a product of the transmission matrix of the primary structure and an inverse of the transmission matrix of the auxiliary structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 17, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 7, 2013
    Assignee: Taiwan Semiconductor Manfacturing Company, Ltd.
    Inventor: Hsiu-Ying Cho
  • Patent number: 8433541
    Abstract: A method and system for monitoring the operation of a wind energy installation. State data relating to the wind energy installation is recorded and discrepancies are found between the state data and an associated comparison value. A failure probability of the wind energy installation is determined based on any found discrepancy. An availability value for the wind energy installation is determined from the ratio of the actually produced amount of electrical energy to the total amount of energy which can potentially be produced. The availability value and the failure probability are then combined to form a repair priority, which is associated with the wind energy installation. Accordingly, more uniform operation of wind energy installations can be achieved.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 12, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 30, 2013
    Assignee: REpower Systems AG
    Inventor: Jens Altemark
  • Patent number: 8428908
    Abstract: Aspects relate to a cognitive agent that performs functions associated with a desired result. The functions performed by cognitive agent supplement other activities performed at a same time. In such a manner, the cognitive agent can function as a surrogate for a user. A performed activity can trigger implementation of another activity that is an extension of the performed activity. Cognitive agent can perform functions that can be represented as an avatar. Further, cognitive agent can be associated with a diagnostics component that evaluates an operating condition. Based on the operating condition cognitive agent can implement automatic actions associated with mitigating failures and/or prolonging the life of machinery.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 25, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 23, 2013
    Assignee: Microsoft Corporation
    Inventors: Stephen L. Lawler, Eyal Ofek, Gur Kimchi, Leonard Smith, Avi Bar-Zeev
  • Patent number: 8428890
    Abstract: A system for measuring normal load and deflection of a material that includes a portable load deflection device and a method of using the same is disclosed. The system includes a support arm having a first end and a second end opposite said first end. The first end can be attached to a base surface. The support arm can provides at least three degrees of freedom of movement and includes at least one sensor for determining a position of the second end. A uniaxial load cell can be operably attached to the second end. The system can also include a processing system operable to receive position data and corresponding force data when the support arm is used to apply a non-normal compression force to the test surface. The data can be used to calculate normal force versus deflection data for the test surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 17, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 23, 2013
    Assignee: Old Dominion University Research Foundation
    Inventors: Sebastian Bawab, Stacie Ringleb, Manish G. Kalmegh
  • Patent number: 8423322
    Abstract: The invention comprises systems and methods for evaluating changes in the operational efficiency of an HVAC system over time. The climate control system obtains temperature measurements from at least a first location conditioned by the climate system, and status of said HVAC system. One or more processors receives measurements of outside temperatures from at least one source other than said HVAC system and compares said temperature measurements from said first location with expected temperature measurements. The expected temperature measurements are based at least in part upon past temperature measurements.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 12, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 16, 2013
    Assignee: EcoFactor, Inc.
    Inventors: John Douglas Steinberg, Scott Douglas Hublou
  • Patent number: 8417410
    Abstract: A power management system includes a data fusion unit configured to receive first health indicators from an engine diagnostics module and second health indicators from a power assurance module. The data fusion unit is configured to data fuse the first and second health indicators. A power assessment and decision support unit is coupled to the data fusion unit and configured to generate power available based on the fused first and second health indicators. A system diagnostic reasoner unit is coupled to the data fusion unit, and configured to provide a system level fault diagnosis based on the fused first and second health indicators. A graphical user interface is coupled to the power assessment and decision support unit and the system diagnostic reasoned unit. The graphical user interface is configured to display the system level fault diagnosis and the power available.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 23, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 9, 2013
    Assignee: Honeywell International Inc.
    Inventors: Kevin Moeckly, Jan Goericke, Andy Stramiello, Richard Ling
  • Patent number: 8417411
    Abstract: A control system may include a polarity determination module, a torque variation module, and a torque sensor diagnostic module. The polarity determination module determines a first polarity of a torque signal that indicates a transmission torque. The torque sensor diagnostic module diagnoses an error of a torque sensor when an detected polarity of the torque signal is opposite from the first polarity. A control system may include a torque variation module and a torque sensor diagnostic module. The torque variation module determines a maximum torque variation during a predetermined diagnostic period based on the torque signal. The torque sensor diagnostic module diagnoses an error of a torque sensor when the maximum torque variation is outside of a torque variation range. The torque variation range is defined by a minimum torque variation threshold and a maximum torque variation threshold.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 26, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 9, 2013
    Inventor: Randall B. Dlugoss
  • Patent number: 8412486
    Abstract: Subject matter disclosed herein may relate to monitoring and/or estimating remaining life for a power converter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 19, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 2, 2013
    Assignee: The University of Hong Kong
    Inventors: Man Hay Pong, Hon Man Pang
  • Patent number: 8412488
    Abstract: The invention comprises systems and methods for estimating the rate of change in temperature inside a structure. At least one thermostat located is inside the structure and is used to control an climate control system in the structure. At least one remote processor is in communication with said thermostat and at least one database stores data reported by the thermostat. At least one processor compares the outside temperature at least one location and at least one point in time to information reported to the remote processor from the thermostat. The processor uses the relationship between the inside temperature and the outside temperature to determine whether the climate control system is “on” or “off”.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 1, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 2, 2013
    Assignee: EcoFactor, Inc.
    Inventors: John Douglas Steinberg, Scott Douglas Hublou
  • Patent number: 8412489
    Abstract: A system including an environmental sensor that can travel with a product within a carrier's logistics network. The environmental sensor being configured to sense an environmental condition capable of affecting the product to generate product environment data. The system includes a scanner configured to read product environment data from the environmental sensor. The system also includes a hub control unit configured to communicate with the scanner and receive the product environment data from the scanner and determines whether the product environment data transcends a limit of exposure of the product to an environmental condition. The hub control unit is also configured to generate a transporting instruction to redirect transport of the product to an alternate destination different from its original destination if the hub control unit determines that the product environment data indicates the environmental condition of the product has transcended the limit of exposure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 28, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 2, 2013
    Assignee: United Parcel Service of America, Inc.
    Inventor: Nagesh Kadaba
  • Patent number: 8400296
    Abstract: A system and method for verifying that an operator was sufficiently close to one or more items to be inspected during an inspection to actually inspect the components, and storing an indication to that effect in a memory accessible via a computer network. In addition to the indication, the memory can store other inspection related data, such as a starting time or ending time of the inspection, or maintenance information about the item that was input during the inspection. The system and method enable a third party application, such as an accounting program or a maintenance program, to access any of the inspection related data.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 29, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 19, 2013
    Assignee: Zonar Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Brett Brinton, Charles Michael McQuade, William Brinton, Jr., Daniel Mayer, Eric Manegold, Richard Lugash, Robie G. Russell
  • Patent number: 8401820
    Abstract: An in situ health monitoring apparatus may include an exciter circuit that applies a pulse to a piezoelectric transducer and a data processing system that determines the piezoelectric transducer's dynamic response to the first pulse. The dynamic response can be used to evaluate the operating range, health, and as-mounted resonance frequency of the transducer, as well as the strength of a coupling between the transducer and a structure and the health of the structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 24, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 19, 2013
    Assignee: United States of America as Represented by the Administrator of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration
    Inventors: Scott L. Jensen, George J. Drouant
  • Patent number: 8396571
    Abstract: A process for optimizing maintenance work schedules for at least one engine includes the steps of retrieving at least one set of data for an engine from a computer readable storage medium; selecting at least one scheduling parameter for the engine; selecting a set of maintenance rules for the engine; selecting at least one maintenance work decision; selecting at least one objective for the engine; optimizing the at least one objective to generate at least one optimal maintenance work decision; and generating at least one optimal maintenance work schedule for the engine.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 19, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 12, 2013
    Assignee: United Technologies Corporation
    Inventors: Sorin Costiner, Howard A. Winston, Jihua Wang, Alexander I. Khibnik, Ravi Rajamani, Thomas R. Matthis, Ricardo A. Benitez, Julie A. Ireland, Ellen Cohen
  • Publication number: 20130060524
    Abstract: A method for detecting an anomaly in a machine under test includes monitoring operational data from a control unit of the machine under test. An operational state of the machine under test is identified based on the monitored operational data. Sensor data is monitored from one or more sensors installed within or near to the machine under test. A model corresponding to the identified operational state of the machine under test is consulted to identify one or more key parameters and corresponding normal operating ranges for each determined key parameter. It is determined when a key parameter of the one or more key parameters is not within its corresponding normal operating range based on the monitored sensor data.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 21, 2011
    Publication date: March 7, 2013
    Applicant: Siemens Corporation
    Inventor: Linxia Liao
  • Patent number: 8386120
    Abstract: A method for automatically determining an engine oil change frequency at an engine control unit includes the steps of determining an amount of fuel used per oil change, and calculating an amount of fuel remaining from the fuel used per oil change. The method also includes the steps of comparing the amount of fuel remaining to a predetermined amount of fuel remaining, and actuating an oil change indicator if the fuel remaining is less than the predetermined amount of fuel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 24, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 26, 2013
    Assignee: International Engine Intellectual Property Company, LLC.
    Inventor: Randall L. Johnson
  • Patent number: 8377314
    Abstract: A method of providing end-to-end water quality control from a water system operator to a point of delivery proximate a consumer, which may be at the point of entry, and/or between the point of entry and point of use, and/or at the point of use. The method includes treating the water and delivering the water to the consumer at the point of delivery, filtering/ purifying the water at the point of delivery, monitoring water quality at the point of delivery, and reporting water quality at the point of delivery to the water system operator over a network.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 18, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2013
    Inventor: Bernard Frank
  • Patent number: 8374815
    Abstract: A test system may include multiple test stations. Electronic devices may be tested using the test system. Each test station may include a test unit such as a radio-frequency tester that can make wireless and wired radio-frequency signal measurements on devices under test. The test stations may be configured to perform pass-fail testing on devices under test during manufacturing. One or more selected devices under test that have passed the pass-fail tests may be retested using the test stations. Multiple tests may be performed at a given test station using the same selected device under test. Gathered test data may be analyzed to determine whether the test stations have sufficient accuracy and precision or need to be recalibrated or taken offline.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 28, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 12, 2013
    Assignee: Apple Inc.
    Inventors: Justin Gregg, Tomoki Takeya, Adil Syed
  • Patent number: 8370083
    Abstract: A hydraulic aggregate for supplying a hydraulic cylinder in consecutive load strokes is monitored for its working load in order to determine the condition of the aggregate automatically. For this purpose, the time integral of the pressure is determined for each load stroke. The pressure and duration are processed into a characteristic number which indicates the wear. This makes it possible to diagnose the condition of the hydraulic aggregate at any time.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 10, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 5, 2013
    Assignee: Wagner Vermögensverwaltung -GmbH & Co., KG
    Inventors: Paul-Heinz Wagner, Bernd Thelen