With Indication Of Condition Or Position Of Work, Product, Or Machine Element (e.g., Broken Tool Alarm, Etc.) Patents (Class 72/31.01)
  • Patent number: 11731187
    Abstract: An object to provide a press-forming method that can efficiently suppress springback and easily specify a position where a springback reduction effect by rigidity improvement is large, and the press-forming method used in producing a press-formed product having a predetermined shape by press-forming a sheet material, the method including: a first process that repeatedly performs a springback analysis, while changing a position to be restricted, to specify a position where a springback reduction effect by rigidity improvement is large; a second process that performs a rigidity improvement measure on a position of the sheet material corresponding to the position of the formed-product model specified in the first process; and a third process that produces the press-formed product by press-forming the sheet material on which the rigidity improvement measure has been performed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 15, 2019
    Date of Patent: August 22, 2023
    Assignee: JFE STEEL CORPORATION
    Inventors: Yuta Kariyazaki, Yusuke Fujii, Yuji Yamasaki
  • Patent number: 11346732
    Abstract: The invention relates to crimping pliers (1) having a pliers jaw (4) on which a die half (22) is supported. A crimping force biasing the die half (22) is sensed in the crimping pliers by a force sensor. The force sensor is a piezo foil (36) mounted to the pliers jaw. The force sensor senses the whole crimping force or only a crimping force component from which it is then possible to calculate the whole crimping force.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 2, 2020
    Date of Patent: May 31, 2022
    Assignee: WEZAG GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventor: Thomas Glockseisen
  • Patent number: 10910929
    Abstract: A system for producing a winding bar for a stator winding of a stator of a rotating electric machine, in particular a turbine generator, having two machining units which can be arranged at a variable distance to each other. Each machining unit has machining device for machining an end portion of the winding bar, and each machining device is arranged on the respective machining unit in a pivotal manner about a pivot axis via at least one respective pivot arm. The pivot axis is identical to a longitudinal central axis of the rotating electric machine, and the radial distance between each machining device can be varied relative to the pivot axis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 23, 2016
    Date of Patent: February 2, 2021
    Assignee: SIEMENS AKTIENGESELLSCHAFT
    Inventors: Matthias Engewald, Michael Schuetz, Henry Werner
  • Patent number: 10713401
    Abstract: There is provided a surface shape defect generating region estimating method for estimating a generating region of a surface shape defect of a deformation-processed product obtained by performing deformation processing with respect to a workpiece, the method including: a first stress distribution obtaining process of obtaining first stress distribution ?(T1); a second stress distribution obtaining process of obtaining a second stress distribution ?(T2); a comparative stress distribution obtaining process of obtaining comparative stress distribution ?(T1, T2); a division comparative stress distribution obtaining process of obtaining division comparative stress distribution ?DIV(T1, T2); and a surface shape defect generating region estimating process of estimating whether or not each of the divided regions DK is a generating region of the surface shape defect.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 22, 2016
    Date of Patent: July 14, 2020
    Assignee: NIPPON STEEL CORPORATION
    Inventors: Takuya Kuwayama, Takashi Ariga
  • Patent number: 10030477
    Abstract: Certain aspects are directed to devices designed to lock shifting sleeves. In a particular aspect, there is provided a shifting sleeve with a mechanical lockout feature, comprising: a shifting sleeve comprising a shifting profile and a locking feature; a housing comprising a corresponding locking feature, wherein application of pressure or torque or both to the shifting profile of the shifting sleeve causes movement of the shifting sleeve and a mechanical lock with the housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 30, 2014
    Date of Patent: July 24, 2018
    Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventor: Joshua Max Hornsby
  • Patent number: 9700926
    Abstract: An industrial machine (1) for bending metallic flat elements (E) comprising a support framework (2) which insists on a reference surface (T), a working plan (3), connected to the support framework (2) and accessible to the operator, adapted to receive the metallic flat element (E) to be folded, bending means (4), arranged frontally to the working plan (3) and coupled to the support frame (2), suitable to bend upwards and/or downwards at least one side edge of the metallic flat element (E), handling and supply means (5), operatively connected to the working plan (3), suitable for supplying/removing the metallic flat element (E) to/from the bending means (4), and actuation means (6), operatively connected to the handling and supply means (5) to move them along a vertical direction (Y) and/or horizontal direction (X) determining the displacement with respect to the working plan (3).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 20, 2012
    Date of Patent: July 11, 2017
    Assignee: TRUMPF Maschinen Austria GmbH & Co. KG.
    Inventor: Antonio Codatto
  • Patent number: 8938886
    Abstract: A processing system employs a processing tool to process workpieces, for example cold working holes and/or installing expandable members into holes. Sensors sense various aspects of the processing. Information regarding performance of the process and/or materials may be stored, for example a hole-by-hole or a workpiece-by-workpiece basis, allowing validation of processing. Information also allows dynamic operation of the processing tool. Analysis of response relationships (e.g., pressure or force versus position or distance) may provide insights into the process and materials, and/or facilitate the real-time feedback including control, alerts, ordering replacement for consumable components.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 25, 2013
    Date of Patent: January 27, 2015
    Assignee: Fatigue Technology, Inc.
    Inventors: James Ryunoshin Ross, Timothy Howard Johnson, Doug Bakken, Kevin J. Dooley
  • Publication number: 20140253718
    Abstract: An apparatus for continuously reforming an open end of a metallic can body has a plurality of sequentially aligned necking stations and a flanging station. An inspection station is sequentially aligned with the flanging station and has a camera for capturing a plurality of images about a circumference of the metallic beverage container as the metallic beverage container completes one full rotation about a generally vertical axis during a dwell period. A plurality of transfer wheels are sequentially aligned with the plurality of necking stations, the flanging station, and the inspection station. The transfer wheels sequentially transfer the metallic container between each of the plurality of necking stations, the flanging station, and the inspection station.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 11, 2013
    Publication date: September 11, 2014
    Applicant: REXAM BEVERAGE CAN COMPANY
    Inventors: Doug Leitzen, Andrea Bevill, Robert P. Perez
  • Publication number: 20140216123
    Abstract: A die (13, 213, 313) is supported in a die holder (381) such as a frame or an adapter (18, 518) supported in a frame such that it is operational use in a material deforming operation. One or both of the die and the die holder have at least one gas passage which is substantially closed by at least part of the die. Gas such as pressurised air is directed into an end of the gas passage opposite the die via a hose (42, 542) connected to a gas source. If the die is broken or loose leak paths are available for the escape of gas past the die to or from atmosphere. A pressure sensor (41) connected to the hose detects the change in pressure of the gas and the magnitude of that pressure is used to determine the die condition. Alternatively a flow rate sensor is used to detect a change in the flow rate of the gas in order to determine the condition of the die.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 7, 2014
    Publication date: August 7, 2014
    Applicant: Henrob Limited
    Inventors: Nicholas Richard Clew, Peter John Elliot, Stephen Henry Kaminski
  • Publication number: 20140150511
    Abstract: A corrugator system for corrugating metallic foil tape. The corrugated metallic foil tape made by the system is suitable to be applied to contoured or three-dimensional surfaces, and is particularly suitable for use in sealing or joining components of heat, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) units.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 12, 2013
    Publication date: June 5, 2014
    Applicant: Shurtape Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: Muzaffer Fidan, George Stamatoukos
  • Patent number: 8720243
    Abstract: The invention describes a switching device which can be variably positioned (45), in particular a foot switch (47), which is connected, preferably wirelessly, to a control device (46) optionally co-operating with a production unit (1), in particular a press brake (2), for transmitting signals and/or data. A positioning system (50) is provided as a means of changing the position when necessary, which comprises at least a detection unit (51) and a drive system (52) in the form of a bogie provided with a drive mechanism and at least one drive member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 29, 2006
    Date of Patent: May 13, 2014
    Assignee: Trumpf Maschinen Austria GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventor: Gerhard Sperrer
  • Publication number: 20140083149
    Abstract: The invention relates to a method for monitoring the wear of a pair of hand pliers with which crimping elements can be pressed onto a workpiece and a particular degree of crimping mp, to be obtained by actuating the pliers, set using a presetting device. An arrangement is described for carrying out this method, as is a pair of hand pliers implementing the method. The method includes: counting each actuation of the hand pliers and linking to the degree of crimping mp that has been set; reading out a wear prognosis value Vt, from a memory, for the degree of crimping that has been set; determining a total wear value V by adding up the wear prognosis value Vt for each actuation; verifying whether the total wear value reaches or exceeds a defined threshold value VG, and issuing a calibration request if necessary.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 26, 2012
    Publication date: March 27, 2014
    Applicant: RENNSTEIG WERKZEUGE GMBH
    Inventors: Thomas Wagner, Sascha Zmiskol, Andreas Marra
  • Patent number: 8671726
    Abstract: A die (13, 213, 313) is supported in a die holder (381) such as a frame or an adapter (18, 518) supported in a frame such that it is operational use in a material deforming operation. One or both of the die and the die holder have at least one gas passage which is substantially closed by at least part of the die. Gas such as pressurized air is directed into an end of the gas passage opposite the die via a hose (42, 542) connected to a gas source. If the die is broken or loose leak paths are available for the escape of gas past the die to or from atmosphere. A pressure sensor (41) connected to the hose detects the change in pressure of the gas and the magnitude of that pressure is used to determine the die condition. Alternatively a flow rate sensor is used to detect a change in the flow rate of the gas in order to determine the condition of the die.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 3, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 18, 2014
    Assignee: Henrob Limited
    Inventors: Nicholas Richard Clew, Peter John Elliot, Stephen Henry Kaminski
  • Patent number: 8613210
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for monitoring the wear of manual pliers. The principles focus on manual pliers, in which press elements can be pressed onto a workpiece and the degree of pressing that can be achieved by actuating the manual pliers can be adjusted with a presetting device. A reference position of the presetting device is measured prior to a first use of the manual pliers, this measurement involving actuating the manual pliers. By an adjustment of the presetting device, the press elements are brought into a position with a reference degree of pressing. Next, after use, the wear position of the presetting device is measured in the same manner, to bring the press elements into a position with the degree of pressing. A message is output when the degree of the wear position deviates from the degree of the reference position by more than the degree of wear permissible.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 17, 2010
    Date of Patent: December 24, 2013
    Assignee: Rennsteig Werkzeuge GmbH
    Inventors: Thomas Wagner, Peter Lutze
  • Patent number: 8590352
    Abstract: A tool for crimping at least two members together and confirming that the crimp is acceptable. The tool includes a pair of opposed clamping jaws. Each of the clamping jaws has a crimping surface that contacts at least one of the members when crimping the members together. The tool also includes a pair of opposed arms that move the crimping surfaces of the opposed clamping jaws toward one another to define a crimping position and away from one another to define a release position. The tool also includes a gauge that defines a first size determining member that allows receipt of the members crimped together and a second size determining member that rejects receipt of the members crimped together.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 14, 2012
    Date of Patent: November 26, 2013
    Assignee: Emerson Electric Co.
    Inventors: Richard R. Bowles, Robert M. Baracskai
  • Publication number: 20130276280
    Abstract: Disclosed is a method for aiding in manual handling of a work piece during machining, which method comprises the steps of: reading a predetermined work plan, comprising a required orientation of the work piece for each machining step of the work plan; detecting the orientation of the work piece; comparing the detected orientation of the work piece with the required orientation; and projecting an indication on the work piece for aiding to manually orient the work piece to the required orientation for the machining step to be performed. Al disclosed is a device for performing the method.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 17, 2012
    Publication date: October 24, 2013
    Applicant: Nivora IP B.V.
    Inventor: Nivora IP B.V.
  • Patent number: 8534105
    Abstract: A bending machine having: a punch and a die for bending a sheet-shaped work; pressurizing means which pressurizes the work in a space between the punch and the die by vertically moving a ram; inputting means (23) which inputs die information on the punch and the die, material information on the work and bending information; a database (25) which stores data on a pressure per unit length required for bending the work; calculating means (29) which calculates a pressure necessary for the pressurizing means based on various information inputted from the inputting means (23) and on the data on the pressure stored in the database (25); and controlling means (31) which controls the pressurizing means based on a result of calculation by the calculating means (29).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 16, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 17, 2013
    Assignee: Amada Company, Limited
    Inventor: Takahiro Shibata
  • Publication number: 20130205853
    Abstract: The aim of this invention is easy to use, practical, light, compact, mobile tool, designed for restoration of the formwork props. This tool very effectively removes uneven places and dents present inside the formwork prop without the need for electric power. No special premises or sites are needed for restoration of the formwork props. The tool is very compact and easily packed into a case-shaped box. When performing formwork prop restoration works, no special physical power of a person is necessary. All of the previously mentioned characteristics are ensured by the special design of this tool, where one ending is inlet into the damaged formwork prop close to the place, which is to be repaired, while the other ending, when using the screwdriver, is rotated around its axis. This rotary motion in one ending of the tool pulls the wedge, which is in the other ending of the tool, and, in this way, it spreads the plates, which touch the walls of the formwork prop, and evens them.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 21, 2011
    Publication date: August 15, 2013
    Inventor: Linas Adomavicius
  • Patent number: 8413477
    Abstract: A calibration tool for fabricating disk springs. The tool includes a circular cylindrical tool body having an insertion bevel at its face end portion for receiving and centering a workpiece within an inner circumferential enveloping surface of the tool body. A tool surface at the inner circumferential enveloping surface aligns the workpiece relative to a forming tool disposed within the inner circumferential enveloping surface. The tool surface includes a first portion having an inner diameter that increases in size along the axial longitudinal direction of the tool body, and a second portion with an inner diameter that decreases in size along the axial longitudinal direction of the tool body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 26, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 9, 2013
    Assignee: Schaeffler Technologies AG & Co. KG
    Inventors: Fabian Bauer, Dianne Shelly, Kunding Wang
  • Patent number: 8356500
    Abstract: In a method and a device for creating a symbol in a workpiece surface via stamping (scoring or plastic forming under compressive conditions); the resultant stamping depth is measured and/or regulated constantly by using a distance sensor which is mounted on the stamping needle and is movable therewith. The stamping needle is placed on the workpiece surface before stamping is begun, thereby resulting in a first distance between the distance sensor and the workpiece surface. A second distance between the distance sensor and the workpiece surface is obtained during the subsequent stamping procedure, and when the stamping needle is pressed into the workpiece surface. The stamping depth results from the difference of the two distances.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 9, 2009
    Date of Patent: January 22, 2013
    Assignee: Werner Maschinenbau GmbH
    Inventors: Wilfried Werner, Senel Efe Ok
  • Publication number: 20120180539
    Abstract: The present invention aims to provide a method of shot-peening treatment that substantially improves the durability (particularly, heat check resistance) of the treated surface of the steel products in the process of treating by shot peening (hereafter, “SP”) the surface of the steel product that is the work to be treated and that was treated by heat hardening. The SP treatment of the present invention that gives the SP treatment to the steel product that was heat-treated and that is a work to be treated comprises the first SP treatment that removes the compound layer (white layer) and a second SP treatment that gives compressive residual stress to the first SP treated surface that was treated by the first SP treatment where the second SP treatment is carried out only to the products where it has been proved by the non-destructive inspection that the compound layers are removed by the first SP treatment.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 15, 2010
    Publication date: July 19, 2012
    Inventor: Yuji Kobayashi
  • Patent number: 8215143
    Abstract: The invention relates to a method for determining shape changes of a workpiece made of steel or a steel alloy due to forming, in which a varnish is applied to the workpiece, the workpiece is formed and then an optical shape change analysis is carried out by measuring the applied varnish. The object of providing a method for determining shape changes of a workpiece made of steel or a steel alloy, said method also being suitable for analyzing the shape change of a workpiece after hot forming, is solved according to the teaching of the present invention in that before the forming of the workpiece a varnish with an Al proportion of more than 30% by weight is applied to the workpiece, the workpiece is heated for forming to a hot forming temperature and the workpiece is cooled after or during the forming.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 13, 2011
    Date of Patent: July 10, 2012
    Assignee: ThyssenKrupp Steel Europe AG
    Inventors: Sascha Sikora, Karl-Heinz Möller, Thomas Struppek
  • Publication number: 20120088035
    Abstract: A system and method for maintain a desired degree of platen flatness is disclosed. A laser system is used to measure the flatness of a platen. The temperature of the platen is then varied to achieve the desired level of flatness. In some embodiments, this laser system is only used during a set up period and the resulting desired temperature is then used during normal operation. In other embodiments, a laser system is used to measure the flatness of the platen, even while the workpiece is being processed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 11, 2011
    Publication date: April 12, 2012
    Applicant: VARIAN SEMICONDUCTOR EQUIPMENT ASSOCIATES, INC.
    Inventors: Shengwu Chang, Joseph C. Olson, Frank Sinclair, Matthew P. McClellan, Antonella Cucchetti
  • Publication number: 20120067097
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for monitoring the wear of manual pliers. The principles focus on manual pliers, in which press elements can be pressed onto a workpiece and the degree of pressing that can be achieved by actuating the manual pliers can be adjusted with a presetting device. A reference position of the presetting device is measured prior to a first use of the manual pliers, this measurement involving actuating the manual pliers. By an adjustment of the presetting device, the press elements are brought into a position with a reference degree of pressing. Next, after use, the wear position of the presetting device is measured in the same manner, to bring the press elements into a position with the degree of pressing. A message is output when the degree of the wear position deviates from the degree of the reference position by more than the degree of wear permissible.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 17, 2010
    Publication date: March 22, 2012
    Applicant: RENNSTEIG WERKZEUGE GMBH
    Inventors: Thomas Wagner, Peter Lutze
  • Patent number: 8091395
    Abstract: A system, method and software arrangement are provided for generating press-formed parts having a more consistent quality based on improved determination of processing conditions. For example, an apparatus can be configured to compare actual performance values of material properties provided by a material property database with standard values, and to adjust forming conditions such as a forming speed and a blank-holder pressure in accordance with the compared result. A control arrangement can be provided to control a press-forming device using the adjusted forming conditions. Accordingly, it may be possible to reduce occurrences of defects such as cracks and wrinkles when press-forming materials, and to obtain products having consistent quality and substantially identical shapes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 27, 2010
    Date of Patent: January 10, 2012
    Assignees: Nippon Steel Corporation, Arcelor France
    Inventors: Noriyuki Suzuki, Akihiro Uenishi, Yukihisa Kuriyama, Toshiyuki Niwa, Takuya Kuwayama
  • Publication number: 20110219836
    Abstract: The invention relates to a method for determining shape changes of a workpiece made of steel or a steel alloy due to forming, in which a varnish is applied to the workpiece, the workpiece is formed and then an optical shape change analysis is carried out by measuring the applied varnish. The object of providing a method for determining shape changes of a workpiece made of steel or a steel alloy, said method also being suitable for analyzing the shape change of a workpiece after hot forming, is solved according to the teaching of the present invention in that before the forming of the workpiece a varnish with an Al proportion of more than 30% by weight is applied to the workpiece, the workpiece is heated for forming to a hot forming temperature and the workpiece is cooled after or during the forming.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 13, 2011
    Publication date: September 15, 2011
    Applicant: ThyssenKrupp Steel Europe AG
    Inventors: Sascha Sikora, Karl-Heinz Möller, Thomas Struppek
  • Patent number: 7900495
    Abstract: A powered conduit bending tool comprises a portable drive housing including a handle and having a powered drive gear. A bracket is secured to the housing defining a pivot connection spaced from the drive gear. A guide is operatively secured to the housing. A platform is pivotally connected to the bracket at the pivot connection and includes a driven gear operatively engaging the drive gear to controllably pivot the platform. A shoe is removably mountable to the platform and comprises a first bender defining a downwardly opening arcuate channel selectively positionable proximate the guide. A hook is proximate one end of the bender for engaging a conduit received in the channel. In use, the guide supports a conduit engaged by the hook and pivotal movement of the shoe driven by the platform deforms the conduit as it passes by the guide.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 6, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 8, 2011
    Assignee: Huskie Tools, Inc.
    Inventor: Joseph S. Latoria
  • Patent number: 7886564
    Abstract: A system, method and software arrangement are provided for generating press-formed parts having a more consistent quality based on improved determination of processing conditions. For example, an apparatus can be configured to compare actual performance values of material properties provided by a material property database with standard values, and to adjust forming conditions such as a forming speed and a blank -holder pressure in accordance with the compared result. A control arrangement can be provided to control a press-forming device using the adjusted forming conditions. Accordingly, it may be possible to reduce occurrences of defects such as cracks and wrinkles when press-forming materials, and to obtain products having consistent quality and substantially identical shapes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 8, 2005
    Date of Patent: February 15, 2011
    Assignees: Nippon Steel Corporation, Arcelor France
    Inventors: Noriyuki Suzuki, Akihiro Uenishi, Yukihisa Kuriyama, Toshiyuki Niwa, Takuya Kuwayama
  • Publication number: 20110016939
    Abstract: A die (13, 213, 313) is supported in a die holder (381) such as a frame or an adapter (18, 518) supported in a frame such that it is operational use in a material deforming operation. One or both of the die and the die holder have at least one gas passage which is substantially closed by at least part of the die. Gas such as pressurised air is directed into an end of the gas passage opposite the die via a hose (42, 542) connected to a gas source. If the die is broken or loose leak paths are available for the escape of gas past the die to or from atmosphere. A pressure sensor (41) connected to the hose detects the change in pressure of the gas and the magnitude of that pressure is used to determine the die condition. Alternatively a flow rate sensor is used to detect a change in the flow rate of the gas in order to determine the condition of the die.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 3, 2009
    Publication date: January 27, 2011
    Applicant: HENROB LIMITED
    Inventors: Nicholas Richard Clew, Peter John Elliot, Stephen Henry Kaminski
  • Publication number: 20100269557
    Abstract: The aim of the invention is to create an inspection system (1) for rolled products (2) of a milling station, which is to reliably prevent the texture of the substrate from being impressed and/or pressing through during processing of the rolled product (2), especially during grinding. Said aim is achieved by disposing a number of vertically adjustable rolled product clamps (6, 8) on a conveyor belt (4) for rolled products (2) in the inspection system (1).
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 8, 2010
    Publication date: October 28, 2010
    Applicant: SMS DEMAG AG
    Inventors: Bernd Tiepelmann, Horst Oemkes
  • Patent number: 7802456
    Abstract: A bending angle detecting device for a workpiece used in a bending machine that bends the workpiece in cooperation of upper and lower tools. The bending angle detecting device has a detector which includes a casing and which can detect a bending angle of the workpiece with the casing fixed in contact with a contact portion of the lower tool.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 27, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 28, 2010
    Assignee: Amada Company, Limited
    Inventors: Hidekatsu Ikeda, Ken Hatano
  • Publication number: 20100154499
    Abstract: During the bending of sheet metal sections (1, 2) in particular for forming can edges using a bending machine, the sheet metal is pre-treated at a flexing station (50) before reaching the bending station. The contact position (x, y, y?) of a sheet on a measuring plate (38) is measured and the signal representing the contact position is reproduced on a display (25), enabling the operator to adjust at least one element (7, 8, 9, 20) of the flexing station in accordance with the deviation of the actual contact position from the target contact position, either manually or by means of a drive. The signal can also be used to automatically adjust at least one element of the flexing station.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 17, 2008
    Publication date: June 24, 2010
    Inventors: Peter Hug, Daniel Dieterich
  • Publication number: 20100095722
    Abstract: A hot-rolling line, a method for photographing the entire width of a hot-rolled metal strip, a method for recording the photographic result of the entire width, a method for appropriately performing quality assurance, and a method for producing a hot-rolled metal strip using them, provide proper quality assurance for delivering a product to a customer. A hot-rolling line includes a near-infrared camera arranged to photograph an entire width of a hot-rolled metal strip on an entry side of a coiler of the hot-rolling line.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 21, 2008
    Publication date: April 22, 2010
    Applicant: JFE STEEL CORPORATION
    Inventors: Nobuo Nishiura, Takayuki Murata, Koji Yanagino, Kazuhiro Nitta, Hiroshi Sawada
  • Patent number: 7698922
    Abstract: A permanent invisible magnetic marking and positioning system of unfinished ferrous rods, bars, workpieces, and the like. A midpoint, center or other point of the workpiece is automatically located and a high-energy pulse is applied for installing an embedded magnetic marker. The magnetizing heads can also be repositioned to various points on a workpiece for imparting digital manufacturing and product identification in a data strobe pulse, that is analogous to a picket fence, where each picket provides a weighted binary representation in a data array comprised of data cells.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 26, 2006
    Date of Patent: April 20, 2010
    Inventors: Donald M. Danko, Joseph H. Taddeo
  • Patent number: 7650771
    Abstract: A high-pressure press includes a pressure vessel surrounded by a force-absorbing press frame. The high-pressure press also includes a detection structure for detecting changes in length of at least one column comprised in the press frame, the changes in length depending on the pressure inside the pressure vessel. The detection structure includes a limit switch, which is adapted to detect if the change in length of the column has reached a threshold value and, in that case, interrupt a pressing operation in progress and reduce the pressure inside the pressure vessel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 21, 2007
    Date of Patent: January 26, 2010
    Assignee: Avure Technologies AB
    Inventor: Lennart Svensson
  • Publication number: 20100005845
    Abstract: A method of identification of a cause of occurrence of springback comprising a press forming analysis step of numerically analyzing forming conditions of press forming to obtain forming data of a press formed part, a processing step of processing at least one of a physical property value and physical property quantity data of part of the regions of said press formed part among forming data of said press formed part, and a springback value calculation step of calculating a springback value based on the results of said processing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 30, 2007
    Publication date: January 14, 2010
    Applicant: NIPPON STEEL CORPORATION
    Inventors: Tohru Yoshida, Shunji Hawatashi, Seiichi Daimaru, Yasuharu Tanaka, Takashi Ariga, Toshiyuki Niwa, Yukihisa Kuriyama, Satoru Okayama
  • Publication number: 20090266127
    Abstract: A device is provided for marking fin material as it is formed on a fin forming machine. Specifically, an air actuated device is connected to the machine cycle count. Each complete cycle of the fin forming machine is counted, and when the correct numbers of cycles have been met, the air switch allows the air cylinder to actuate and drive the indenter into the fin material and then withdraw the indenter to complete the marking process. The fin marking process is done without interruption to the fin forming cycle, and without damage to the fin material.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 25, 2008
    Publication date: October 29, 2009
    Applicant: Robinson Fin Machines, Inc
    Inventors: Jack E. Carle, Nathaniel A. Lowe
  • Publication number: 20090255307
    Abstract: A tool for correcting the twist angle of a turbine blade includes an adaptor configured to engage a tip of the blade, a socket drive configured to engage the adaptor, a first handle connected to a first side of the socket drive, a second handle connected to a second side of the socket drive, and a torque gauge configured to measure a load applied to the blade.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 15, 2008
    Publication date: October 15, 2009
    Applicant: United Technologies Corporation
    Inventors: Ephraim C. Davis, Bryan G. Parrette, Larry D. Cronin
  • Patent number: 7584637
    Abstract: A method of bending a metal object, such as a tube, is provided that uses real time, closed-loop feedback of the actual springback of the object in order to modify the applied bending force or preprogrammed bending coordinates so that the final desired bend geometry is achieved. The variability of springback from object to object is thus accounted for and the number of objects that must be scrapped due to incorrect bends (over bend or under bend) is reduced. The method is carried out using an apparatus such as a rotary draw bender with a measuring device operable to measure actual bend coordinates of metal objects bent by the bender. A controller is operatively connected to the bender and the measuring device and is configured to control the bender to bend the metal objects at least partly based on measured bend coordinates provided by the measuring device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 10, 2008
    Date of Patent: September 8, 2009
    Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations, Inc.
    Inventors: Mike M. Ghiran, Spyros P. Mellas, William M. Crantas, Kevin R. Marks, David R. Friddell, Paul D. Larsen
  • Publication number: 20090158796
    Abstract: A bending brake includes a rotating carrier that is rotatable about a rotation axis. The carrier has first and second upper jaws connected thereto at different angular locations about the rotation axis. A locking mechanism for preventing rotation of the carrier during operation of the bending brake includes an endplate forming a pocket, the endplate disposed adjacent to a distal end of the carrier. A latch having a trigger portion is pivotally connected to the endplate and located within the pocket such that the trigger portion protrudes from the pocket. A toothed cam wheel rotating with the carrier has at least one tooth formed thereon that engages the trigger portion of the latch to prevent rotation of the carrier in one direction at preselected angular positions corresponding to the first and second upper jaws.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 21, 2007
    Publication date: June 25, 2009
    Applicant: Roper Whitney of Rockford, Inc.
    Inventors: Brian McVey, Jan Erik Borjesson
  • Patent number: 7513135
    Abstract: The invention relates to production unit (1), in particular a bending press (2), for forming workpieces (3) of sheet metal, having two press beams (15, 16) which are displaceable relative to one another by means of a drive mechanism (53) and can be used to obtain a required tool length (42) by fitting a variable number of bending tools (36, 37). To enable them to be identified and/or their positions detected on an at least partially automated basis, the inserted bending tools (35, 37) have unmistakable codes in the form of electronically detectable information carriers (43).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 30, 2003
    Date of Patent: April 7, 2009
    Assignee: TRUMPF Maschinen Austria GmbH & Co. KG.
    Inventor: Thomas Denkmeier
  • Publication number: 20090049885
    Abstract: “The dent removal industry utilizes specialized tools and techniques to remove automobile dents. This invention is unique because it uses strong magnet(s) attached to the tool tip introducing a magnetic field thru sheet metal. The magnetic material can be neodymium iron boron (NdFeB), samarium cobalt (SmCo), or other strong magnetic material. A magnetic dust applied on the painted surface of the sheet metal near the dent indicates the tips position. Sliding the tip on the underside of the sheet metal near the dust and dent collects the material at the tip's position. Identification of the tip's location reduces the number of pressure flexes, eliminates the need for specialized lighting, frees the technician's posture, and does not require extensive and costly training. This invention and technique greatly improves the ease, accuracy, and speed of removing dents. Untrained individuals can thus remove dents.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 20, 2006
    Publication date: February 26, 2009
    Inventor: Nerrit Scott Postma
  • Patent number: 7487654
    Abstract: A hydraulic tool including a frame having a hydraulic fluid conduit system; a hydraulic pump coupled to the conduit system; and a tactile feedback system. The tactile feedback system is coupled to the conduit system and is adapted to signal a user of an occurrence of a predetermined event.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 15, 2007
    Date of Patent: February 10, 2009
    Assignee: FCI Americas Technology, Inc.
    Inventors: John D. Lefavour, Armand T. Montminy
  • Patent number: 7421871
    Abstract: A pressing tool (13) includes a fluid pump (4), a cylinder element (5) arranged connecting with this and a piston which can be slid forward in the cylinder element (5) by pressure fluid of the fluid pump (4) and reset by a return spring (20a). A piston rod (6) is passed out to the cylinder element (5) as an activation part. The pressing tool (13) is moreover outfitted with a position measuring device (12, 12a; 112, 212, 212a) which measures without contact which makes the piston position continuously detectable over a positioning range free of disturbance and with a presence sensor (52). The presence sensor (52) verifies the presence of a jointing clamp (51) and issues an indicator signal in the event that a jointing clamp (51) is missing or improperly fastened and shuts the pressing tool (13) off following a delay period to the extent that no orderly inserted jointing clamp (51) is yet available.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 24, 2006
    Date of Patent: September 9, 2008
    Assignee: Emerson Electric Co.
    Inventor: Hans-Jörg Goop
  • Patent number: 7392678
    Abstract: A bending machine has an upper table and a lower table. An input part is provided for inputting product information. A bending order determiner is provided for determining a bending order of the workpiece. A mold determiner is provided for determining the mold necessary for bending the workpiece. A layout determiner is provided for determining layout of the mold. A positioning information calculator is provided for calculating a position of the workpiece with respect to the mold determined by the layout determiner as work position information. A navigation member is provided for navigating a position of the workpiece to the operator by movement in the horizontal direction on the basis of the work position information calculated by the positioning information calculator.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 23, 2003
    Date of Patent: July 1, 2008
    Assignee: Amada Company, Limiited
    Inventors: Yoshiaki Niwa, Hidekatsu Ikeda, Takahiro Shibata
  • Publication number: 20080087064
    Abstract: A hydraulic tool including a frame having a hydraulic fluid conduit system; a hydraulic pump coupled to the conduit system; and a tactile feedback system. The tactile feedback system is coupled to the conduit system and is adapted to signal a user of an occurrence of a predetermined event.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 15, 2007
    Publication date: April 17, 2008
    Inventors: John D. Lefavour, Armand T. Montminy
  • Patent number: 7343765
    Abstract: A method and device for checking clearance between a stamping die includes a template representative of relative movement between the stamping die and end tool. A template including a surface representing movement of the end tool relative to the stamping die is positioned relative to the stamping die. The position is indicative of a location of the end tool during operation of the stamping die. Contact between the template and the stamping die along the surface representing movement indicates potential contact between the end tool and the stamping die during operation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 13, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 18, 2008
    Assignee: Syron Engineering & Manufacturing, LLC
    Inventors: Scott McCallum, Paul Kleine, Rick Hurst
  • Patent number: 7181942
    Abstract: An ultrasonic device and method obtains desirable crimp connections between a crimp connector and a wire, or bundle of wires, by assessing the desirability of connections made in a wire-to-wire connection and in other situations where two materials with good acoustic propagation characteristics are joined together via deformation. An embodiment of the device as a crimping tool comprises a compressing means, pulse-generating circuitry, at least one ultrasonic transmitting transducer, at least one ultrasonic receiving transducer, receiving circuitry, and a display. The user may return to a previously crimped connection and assess the desirability of the connection by compressing the device about the connection, sending an acoustic signal through the crimp, and comparing the received signal to a signal obtained from known desirable connections.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 9, 2004
    Date of Patent: February 27, 2007
    Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Administrator of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration
    Inventors: William T. Yost, K. Elliott Cramer, Daniel F. Perey
  • Patent number: 7164276
    Abstract: A method for determining the wall thickness of a metal tube is described. This method has the following features: (a) preparation of a metal tube of a determined length; (b) arrangement of two clamp contacts on the metal tube with an exactly defined distance of separation; (c) connection of the ends of the metal tube with a power source; and (d) measurement of the voltage drop in the metal tube between the clamp contacts.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 26, 2005
    Date of Patent: January 16, 2007
    Inventors: Klaus Porcher, Christian Frohne
  • Patent number: 7124608
    Abstract: A pressing tool (13) includes a fluid pump (4), a cylinder element (5) arranged connecting with this and a piston which can be slid forward in the cylinder element (5) by pressure fluid of the fluid pump (4) and reset by a return spring (20a). A piston rod (6) is passed out to the cylinder element (5) as an activation part. The pressing tool (13) is moreover outfitted with a position measuring device (12, 12a; 112, 212, 212a) which measures without contact which makes the piston position continuously detectable over a positioning range free of disturbance and with a presence sensor (52). The presence sensor (52) verifies the presence of a jointing clamp (51) and issues an indicator signal in the event that a jointing clamp (51) is missing or improperly fastened and shuts the pressing tool (13) off following a delay period to the extent that no orderly inserted jointing clamp (51) is yet available.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 2002
    Date of Patent: October 24, 2006
    Assignee: Emerson Electric Co.
    Inventor: Hans-Jörg Goop