Probe Or Probe Mounting Patents (Class 73/866.5)
  • Publication number: 20110120240
    Abstract: An actuator for selectively extending and retracting a probe in a measuring instrument comprises an actuator body, a carriage having a first aperture slidably attached to the body, and a second aperture receiving a probe holder having a probe. The first aperture of the carriage, which surrounds the actuator body, includes a first plurality of magnets disposed around an inner circumference of the aperture. The actuator body includes a lead screw, a round lead screw nut mated with the lead screw, and a second plurality of magnets arranged on a periphery of the lead screw nut, generally aligned with the first plurality of magnets. The magnets are arranged so that the carriage may be displaced with respect to the actuator body a sufficient amount that the magnets do not significantly restrain the further movement of the carriage.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 20, 2009
    Publication date: May 26, 2011
    Applicant: QUALITY VISION INTERNATIONAL, INC.
    Inventors: David E. Lawson, William E. Stevens, JR.
  • Patent number: 7946050
    Abstract: The present invention discloses a three-dimensional microprobe array assembly structure, wherein spacers are used in assembling edge-type microprobe arrays to form a three-dimensional structure, and the spacers reveal conductive pads of the edge-type microprobe arrays to benefit wire bonding. The present invention detects depths and angles and thus increases detection reliability. Besides, in the present invention, the related IC is integrated with the spacer to achieve circuit integration and reduce cost.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 29, 2008
    Date of Patent: May 24, 2011
    Assignee: National Chiao Tung University
    Inventors: Jin-Chern Chiou, Chih-Wei Chang
  • Publication number: 20110111489
    Abstract: A sensor adapter is described for the noninvasive positioning of a sensor, especially of an electrochemical sensor, in a medium. The sensor adapter comprises an accommodating channel, in which the sensor can be positioned and the one end region of which is closed off by a semipermeable membrane. Moreover, the sensor adapter comprises a hollow cylindrical sealing structure, which is disposed within the accommodating channel coaxially with the longitudinal axis of the latter and with which the sensor can be disposed gas tight adjacent to the semipermeable membrane.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 21, 2010
    Publication date: May 12, 2011
    Applicant: Eppendorf AG
    Inventors: Jochen Beese, Sven Eikelmann, Jeff Watkins, Rafael Kopla
  • Publication number: 20110107858
    Abstract: A probe apparatus includes a plurality of prober chamber arranged in a straight line; and a loader chamber having a substrate transfer mechanism that takes out a test target substrate from a container provided in an upper area of the prober chamber, lowers the test target substrate to a height corresponding to a loading/unloading port of the prober chamber, moves in front of a row of the prober chambers in parallel to the row of the prober chambers and transfers the test target substrate into the prober chamber. A reading mechanism for reading information recorded on the test target substrate held on the substrate transfer mechanism is installed at a horizontal moving mechanism that moves the substrate transfer mechanism in front of the row of the prober chambers in parallel to the row of the prober chambers.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 4, 2010
    Publication date: May 12, 2011
    Applicant: TOKYO ELECTRON LIMITED
    Inventors: Tadashi Obikane, Kazuya Yano, Hiroshi Yamada, Masaru Suzuki, Yasuhito Yamamoto
  • Publication number: 20110107857
    Abstract: A probe system for measuring a measured variable of a fluid, especially a liquid, contained in a process container comprising: A probe body, which is connectable to the process container by means of a process connection; axially shiftable in a guiding passageway of the probe body between a measuring position and at least two different treatment positions, an immersion tube, which has a protective cylinder on its front end immersible in the fluid; held in the immersion tube, a measuring probe having a measuring head, wherein the measuring head is arranged within a region of the protective cylinder having openings; a first treatment chamber formed between the guiding passageway and the immersion tube; a second treatment chamber formed between the guiding passageway and the immersion tube and adjoining the first treatment chamber on a side of the first treatment chamber facing away from the process connection; and a seal arranged between the first and second treatment chambers, wherein the immersion tube has a f
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 10, 2010
    Publication date: May 12, 2011
    Applicant: Endress + Hauser Conducta Gesellschaft Fur Mess- Und Regeltechnik mbH + Co. KG
    Inventors: Thomas Pfauch, Ingrid Wunderlich
  • Publication number: 20110100140
    Abstract: A test assembly is provided having a platform with an indentation. A probe holder assembly is placed in the indentation of the platform. The probe holder assembly includes a base with an indentation configured to receive a tissue specimen, a plate configured to secure the tissue specimen to the base, and a probe holder configured to hold a probe in contact with an adhesive placed on the tissue specimen.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 6, 2010
    Publication date: May 5, 2011
    Applicant: Tyco Healthcare Group LP
    Inventor: Fatima Jones
  • Publication number: 20110083521
    Abstract: A wireless circular chart recorder is presented. The wireless chart recorder includes a probe for sensing a process variable, a wireless transmitter coupled to the probe, a circular chart recorder having an input terminal, and a wireless receiver coupled to the input terminal of the circular chart recorder. The wireless transmitter receives data including the sensed process variable form the probe and transmits signals including the data over a wireless communication path. The wireless receiver receives the transmitted signals over the wireless communication path and provides the received signals to the circular chart recorder for display thereon. In one embodiment the process variable includes at least one of temperature, voltage, relative humidity, pressure, strain, resistance, motion, light, current, velocity and flow.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 12, 2010
    Publication date: April 14, 2011
    Inventors: Milton B. Hollander, Shahin Baghai
  • Patent number: 7921742
    Abstract: A mounting and suspension system for mounting non-contact sliding measurement devices to the side of objects that slide on snow or ice like skis, snowboards, sleds, luges, and ice skates. A base component permanently attached to the sliding object allows a quick disconnect of the rest of the device. A linkage component permits the retraction of the measurement device relative to the sliding object in such a way that the measurement device remains aligned with the surface being measured while minimizing lateral displacement and fully retracted vertical height such that accurate measurement is obtained at any angle of sliding object relative to the surface of snow or ice. A bias device keeps the measurement device in firm contact with the surface without interfering with the use of the sliding object. A safety device prevents injury to user and damage to measurement device in case of impact with an external obstacle or fall.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 14, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 12, 2011
    Inventor: Richard Kirby
  • Patent number: 7924169
    Abstract: Device for fastening a sensor on containers with a flexible container wall, in particular mixing bags, comprising a sensor support which is fitted with a sensor, bears against an inner wall of the container wall at least with a rear subsurface averted from the sensor, and is guided with a central piece through an opening in the container wall in which the sensor support is fixed on the container wall by a clamping part which can be connected to the central piece, in which the container wall is clamped between the rear subsurface of the sensor support and on a bearing surface, facing an outer wall of the container, of the clamping part, and in which the rear subsurface bears sealingly against the inner wall of the container wall. The sensor support can also have an electronic or optical transmit unit which is connected to the sensor, in which case the transmit unit communicates in a wireless fashion with a receive unit arranged outside the container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 9, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 12, 2011
    Assignee: Sartorius Stedim Biotech GmbH
    Inventors: Reinhard Baumfalk, Oscar-Werner Reif
  • Patent number: 7908919
    Abstract: A level meter, employing the radar principle for measuring the fill level of a medium in a container, includes a signal transmitter serving to transmit an electromagnetic signal, an electric conductor system for conducting the electromagnetic signal into the container and returning reflected components of the electromagnetic signal from the container, and a signal receiver serving to receive the reflected components of the electromagnetic signal. An electric conductor system is provided at its upper end with a suspension by which it is attached to a device on the container. A tensile-load testing device is placed between the suspension and at least a part of the electric conductor system, featuring a break point for the electromagnetic signal, with the distance between the break point and the signal transmitter or the signal receiver varying as a function of the tensile load bearing on the conductor system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 22, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 22, 2011
    Assignee: Krohne Messtechnik GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventor: Michael Gerding
  • Patent number: 7908118
    Abstract: A system and method for testing and replacing equipment are disclosed. The system may include a first memory module configured to store first characteristics of the first equipment; a second memory module configured to store second characteristics of the second equipment; and a portable reader configured to read the first and second memory modules and to compare the second characteristics with the first characteristics to determine if the second equipment is a suitable replacement for the first equipment. The method may include storing first characteristics of a first equipment on a first memory module; transmitting the first characteristics to a portable reader; measuring second characteristics of a second equipment using a measuring device associated with the portable reader; and comparing, with the portable reader, the second characteristics with the first characteristics to determine if one of the first and second equipment is a suitable replacement for the other equipment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 7, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 15, 2011
    Assignee: MacSema, Inc.
    Inventors: Jack I. Trowbridge, Jr., Ricky L. Wright, Delano S. Richie, David D. Barton
  • Publication number: 20110056313
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a method for measuring the conditions inside a power boiler wherein a sootblower is used as a measuring probe. The invention also relates to a system for measuring the conditions in a power boiler, comprising a control unit, at least one sensor and a measuring probe placed inside said furnace, wherein said probe is arranged on a soot blower.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 13, 2009
    Publication date: March 10, 2011
    Applicant: SOOT-TECH AKTIEBOLAG
    Inventors: Erik Dahlen, Mikael Niklasson
  • Patent number: 7900528
    Abstract: Apparatus (2) for sensing parameters, which apparatus (2) comprises a housing (4), a plurality of sockets (6) in the housing (4), a sensor (8) in each of the sockets (6), first electrical contacts (10) on the sensor (8), and second electrical contacts (12) in each socket (6) at an end of the socket (6) remote from the sensor (8), and the apparatus (2) being such that: (i) the sensors (8) are for sensing different parameters; (ii) the sockets (6) are such that when they contain their sensors (8) then the sockets (6) are sealed from each other whereby a liquid caused to be present in a socket (6) consequent upon an operator error is unable to pass to the other sockets (6); (iii) the second electrical contacts (12) define the type of sensor (8) that is appropriate for each socket (6); and (iv) the sensors (8) each comprise a flat sensor part (14), a transversely extending mounting part (16), and a body part (18), the transversely extending mounting part (16) being located in a bore in the body part (18), and the
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 10, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 8, 2011
    Assignee: Intellitect Water Ltd.
    Inventor: David Robert Vincent
  • Patent number: 7887696
    Abstract: This disclosure describes a commercial/industrial remineralizer designed to be added to a purification system that raises the pH by non-chemical methodology while replacing important electrolytes to the water that were extracted along with the toxic, non-essential minerals from the water. The remineralizer can be designed for heavy commercial continuous production.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 7, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 15, 2011
    Assignee: CWP Holdings, LLC
    Inventor: Paul L. Simmons
  • Patent number: 7886624
    Abstract: An assembly for insertion and retraction of probe or probe-like device which does not require a seal or packing gland, instead utilizing pressure equalization between pressurized process fluids and the housing containing a probe, so as to negate the use of a dynamic seal. The preferred embodiment of the present invention contemplates an inserting/retraction mechanism for raising and lowering the probe into and from the pressurized fluid, respectively. A housing having a valve is configured to allow fluid communication between the pressurized fluid source, and the interior of the housing assembly. A conduit engages the housing assembly, and is formed to slidingly receive the outer diameter of the probe therethrough, such that a sliding seal maintains a fluid seal between the outer wall of the probe and the inner wall of the conduit, as the probe is telescoped therethrough during insertion and retraction of the probe into/from the pressurized process.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 9, 2007
    Date of Patent: February 15, 2011
    Assignee: A+ Manufacturing, LLC
    Inventor: Donald P. Mayeaux
  • Patent number: 7882755
    Abstract: This invention provides a sensor attachment device that can be easily attached and detached, a sensor and a light emitting device for a photo-electrical sensor. By downward displacement of an operation member after tip ends of a pair of locking hooks are locked to a sensor main body by inserting the sensor main body into an insertion opening with second regions of a pair of facing surfaces respectively facing toward external surfaces of central portions of the pair of locking hooks, the central portions of the pair of locking hooks can be pressed inwardly by first regions of the pair of facing surfaces, thereby fixing the sensor main body to a holding member. Accordingly, the attachment of the sensor main body is easy in comparison with the conventional configuration in which a nut is screwed onto the sensor main body, then rotated and fastened.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 2, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 8, 2011
    Assignee: Keyence Corporation
    Inventors: Kazutoshi Sugiyama, Noriyoshi Yamane
  • Publication number: 20110023399
    Abstract: A refractory wall is provided. The refractory wall includes a plurality of wall bricks coupled together to define an inner surface of the refractory wall, and a sensor port coupled to the plurality of wall bricks. The sensor port includes an outer wall defining a radial cross-sectional shape of the sensor port and defining a top ridge of the sensor port, an inner wall defining an opening extending through the sensor port, and an end wall extending between the outer wall and the inner wall. The end wall is positioned radially inward a distance from the inner surface. A method for fabricating the refractory wall is also provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 31, 2009
    Publication date: February 3, 2011
    Inventors: Wade Albert Taber, Judeth Helen Brannon Corry
  • Patent number: 7880471
    Abstract: An adapter for a potentiometric sensor having a sensor shaft, which has a reference liquid opening in its exterior surface. The adapter comprises an annular chamber member having a sensor opening for receiving the sensor shaft. Arranged in the sensor opening are first and second sealing rings for the sensor shaft. The axial position of the reference liquid opening lies between the first and second sealing rings. Formed between the sealing rings and the sensor shaft is an annular chamber, which is in communication with the reference liquid opening. The annular chamber member further includes a duct extending between the annular chamber and a reference feed opening. The adapter further includes a process connection member having a process connection opening, which surrounds the sensor shaft, and whose axis is aligned with the axis of the sensor opening.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 25, 2005
    Date of Patent: February 1, 2011
    Assignee: Endress + Hauser Conducta Gesellschaft fur Mess-und Regeltechnik mbH + Co. KG
    Inventors: Christian Fanselow, Lothar Auerswald
  • Publication number: 20110016995
    Abstract: Apparatus is disclosed for changing task modules or styli of a metrological probe. In one embodiment, a stylus module (18) is retained magnetically on a retaining module (16) of the probe. A horizontal pin (38) extends from a storage device (32) and engages in an aperture (40) in the stylus module (18). This allows the stylus module to be separated by a vertical movement of the retaining module. To control tilting of the stylus module relative to the retaining module, the pin (38) extends up to or beyond the resultant vector of the magnetic coupling force between the stylus module and the retaining module, which in this embodiment is along the centre line (42) of the stylus module.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 15, 2008
    Publication date: January 27, 2011
    Applicant: RENISHAW PLC
    Inventors: David R. McMurtry, Geoffrey McFarland
  • Publication number: 20110011190
    Abstract: The invention provides a probe and a method of obtaining a three-dimensional compositional map of one or more targets in a biological sample, or a portion thereof, comprising: (a) milling a surface layer of a biological sample with a focused ion beam, thereby creating a newly exposed surface layer of the biological sample; (b) imaging the newly exposed surface layer of the biological sample; (c) identifying the chemical composition of the newly exposed surface layer of the biological sample, or a portion thereof, with a mass spectrometer; and (d) repeating (a) to (c) until a three-dimensional compositional map of one or more targets in the biological sample, or portion thereof, is obtained. Uses of the three-dimensional map obtained from the inventive method are further provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 4, 2008
    Publication date: January 20, 2011
    Inventor: Sriram Subramaniam
  • Patent number: 7870800
    Abstract: One embodiment of the present invention is an apparatus including a fluid coupler interfaced to a test head that includes: (a) a first ring having a top surface disposed in a first plane; (b) a first movable ring, the first movable ring being movable substantially normal to the first plane relative to the first ring; (c) a first flexible diaphragm attached to the first ring along a first attachment perimeter that encloses a first effective surface area, the first flexible diaphragm being attached to the first movable ring; (d) a second ring having a top surface disposed in a second plane; (e) a second movable ring, the second movable ring being movable substantially normal to the first plane; and (f) a second flexible diaphragm attached to the second ring along a second attachment perimeter that encloses a second effective surface area, the second flexible diaphragm being attached to the second movable ring; wherein: (i) the first flexible diaphragm and the second flexible diaphragm form a first channel for f
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 27, 2006
    Date of Patent: January 18, 2011
    Assignee: Centipede Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Peter T. Di Stefano, Thomas H. Di Stefano
  • Publication number: 20110000301
    Abstract: A device for the nondestructive material testing of an at least sectionally solid test subject by applying ultrasonic waves to the test subject and detecting the ultrasonic waves reflected inside the test subject is provided The device includes at least one testing head for transmitting the ultrasonic waves and for detecting the ultrasonic waves reflected from the test subject, at least one mobile carriage, on which the testing head is attached, and an elongate rail for guiding the carriage, which is adapted to the structure of the surface of the test subject. To this end, the carriage may be moved along the rail.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 21, 2009
    Publication date: January 6, 2011
    Inventors: Michael Clossen-von Lanken Schulz, Stefan Obermayr, Michael Opheys
  • Patent number: 7861608
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a universal fitting for in-line fluid measurement in a process application. The fitting includes an inlet and outlet port for in-line coupling to the process application. Also, a fluid flow passage provides fluid communication between the ports. At least one sensor housing extends outwardly away from a wall of the fluid passage. Also, the housing is sized to receive a sensor assembly which assembly measures at least one characteristic of the fluid. A base of the housing is integrally formed with the wall and includes a sensor seat for receiving a portion of the sensor assembly. Further, at least one probe aperture is provided for receiving a probe portion of the sensor assembly. The probe aperture is disposed in the wall of the fluid passage and extends from the fluid passage through the sensor seat into the housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 4, 2007
    Date of Patent: January 4, 2011
    Assignee: PendoTECH
    Inventors: James F. Furey, Dustin James Rekow
  • Patent number: 7861609
    Abstract: An apparatus for constructing a target core to enable testing at simulated wellbore conditions. The apparatus includes a support core having a target core receiving region. A flexible jacket is operable to receive the support core and apply a confining stress to the support core. A quantity of unconsolidated sand is disposed within the target core receiving region of the support core. The support core is operable to transmit at least a portion of the confining stress to the unconsolidated sand, thereby forming the target core. The apparatus simulates downhole conditions such that flow tests may be performed on the target core before and after perforating the target core.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 31, 2008
    Date of Patent: January 4, 2011
    Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventors: Dennis Haggerty, John Douglas Manning
  • Publication number: 20100316316
    Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention provide a method, system and apparatus for tracking a rotatable object. A device for tracking a rotatable object comprises a body, the body comprising a tracking portion. A device for tracking a rotatable object further comprises an attachment section connected to the body, for attaching the device to the rotatable object. The body and the attachment section are configured for balanced rotation when the rotatable object rotates.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 28, 2006
    Publication date: December 16, 2010
    Inventor: John-Pierre Kamel
  • Patent number: 7848894
    Abstract: A free-hand inspection apparatus for non-destructively inspecting a structure includes an array and an inertial sensor. The array includes a plurality of elements for transmitting and receiving inspection signals towards and from a structure being inspected. The inertial sensor measures acceleration and angular rotation rate in X, Y, and Z directions of the array.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 9, 2009
    Date of Patent: December 7, 2010
    Assignee: The Boeing Company
    Inventors: William P. Motzer, Gary E. Georgeson
  • Patent number: 7849516
    Abstract: A method of scanning over a substrate includes implementing a write mode of the substrate by scanning a probe across a substrate, the probe having a spring cantilever probe mechanically fixed to a probe holding structure, a tip with a nanoscale apex, and an actuator for lateral positioning of the tip; the actuator comprising a thermally switchable element and a heating element for heating the thermally switchable element; and heating the heating element to a given temperature so as to locally soften a portion of the substrate and applying a force to the softened portion of the substrate through the tip so as to create one or more indentation marks in the softened portion of the substrate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 7, 2008
    Date of Patent: December 7, 2010
    Assignee: International Business Machines Corporation
    Inventors: Gerd Binnig, Evangelos Elefheriou, Mark Lantz
  • Patent number: 7841249
    Abstract: A system for facilitating the mapping of a partially or fully occluded (hidden) pipeline containing a gas, a liquid, or a liquid-gas mixture. The system includes a sensor device having an internal sphere with a generally smooth outer surface and an internal orientation stabilizer. Within the internal sphere are contained a tri-axial inertial sensor, a time keeping device, a data processing device, a data recording device, and a power source. The internal sphere is centered and held within an external sphere having an inside diameter that is incrementally larger than the outside diameter of the internal sphere. The external sphere has a generally smooth unobstructed inner surface and fully encloses the internal sphere. A quantity of fluid fills the spatial gap between the outside surface of the inside sphere and the inside surface of the external sphere in a manner that permits omni-directional free rotational movement of the internal sphere within the external sphere.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 9, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 30, 2010
    Assignee: Southwest Research Institute
    Inventor: Garth W. Tormoen
  • Patent number: 7841767
    Abstract: A tympanic thermometer includes a thermally conductive nozzle extending from a distal end of the thermometer. A base of a sensor can is thermally connected to the nozzle to define a path of conductive heat transfer from the nozzle to the base of the can thereby minimizing a thermal gradient between proximal and distal ends of the sensor can when temperature is measured in the ear. An air space around the sensor can inhibits heat transfer except at the base of the sensor can.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 8, 2008
    Date of Patent: November 30, 2010
    Assignee: Covidien AG
    Inventor: James M. Harr
  • Patent number: 7841230
    Abstract: A stabilizing device for a handheld measurement device. An illustrative embodiment of the stabilizing device includes a device harness adapted to receive the handheld measurement device and having a handle opening and a nose opening and at least one harness attachment device carried by the device harness. A method for taking surface measurements with a handheld measurement device is also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 13, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 30, 2010
    Assignee: The Boeing Company
    Inventors: Gregory J. Werner, Kate Ackerman
  • Publication number: 20100294053
    Abstract: A probe holder has a manipulator, a probe arm arranged on the manipulator, and a probe needle that is at least indirectly connected to the probe arm. To increase the number of contacts of a substrate to be tested and to make it possible to test a plurality of contacts in etched trenches of semiconductor elements in a group of wafers, the probe arm is connected to a needle support on which the probe needle and at least one second probe needle are arranged.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 10, 2008
    Publication date: November 25, 2010
    Applicant: SUSS MICROTEC TEST SYSTEMS GMBH
    Inventors: Joerg Kiesewetter, Stojan Kanev, Stefan Kreissig
  • Patent number: 7832296
    Abstract: A sterile measurement device comprising an elongated measurement probe for measuring a physical property. The probe has a first end and a second end, and a sensing element, which is located on the first end which can be installed at any time on a measurement site. The measurement site has a measuring chamber for measuring a physical quantity inside the measuring chamber without breaching sterility of the measurement arrangement. The measurement device further comprising a sterile tubing comprising a first end, a second end and a compressible section located between the ends. The sterile tubing surrounding the probe, such that the second end of the probe extends out of the second end of the tubing, structure for establishing a sterile connection between the first end of the tubing and a corresponding counter part on a measurement site.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 17, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 16, 2010
    Assignee: Endress + Hauser Conducta Gesellschaft fur Mess- und Regeltechnik mbH + Co. KG
    Inventors: Daniel Klees, Klaus Köhler
  • Patent number: 7832295
    Abstract: A submersible water monitoring probe assembly including: a cam-twist type interconnect mechanism; flexible PCBA (printed circuit board assembly) having flexible ribbon cable sandwiched between layers of an elongated circuit board, the ribbon cable extending outwardly from each end of the board and along an elongated probe-body; internal gas-permeable and generally liquid impermeable barrier assembly disposed within the cam-twist inter-connect mechanism between the elongated PCBA housed within the probe-body and an electrical connector of the cam-twist interconnect mechanism; and if used, a vented cable assembly, or other means of transmitting sensor data collected by sensing circuitry within a submersed probe-end. Also, an extender assembly for use with the submersible probe. At each end portion of the extender assembly is either a male cam-twist type interconnect piece or a female cam-twist type interconnect piece. The length-extender assembly may be electrically adapted to house one or more battery cells.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 14, 2006
    Date of Patent: November 16, 2010
    Assignee: In-Situ, Inc.
    Inventors: Dustin S. Rodriguez, Bruce A. Barker, Duane B. McKee
  • Patent number: 7832273
    Abstract: A sensor device includes an ultrasonic sensor and a sensor cover in the form of a foil, the ultrasonic sensor having an oscillatory sensor element, which is affixed inside a housing, having an end face, of the ultrasonic sensor, the ultrasonic sensor being able to be accommodated in a recess or bore hole of an external vehicle component, and the sensor element and the housing being able to be covered by the sensor cover on the outside, the sensor cover being mountable directly on the ultrasonic sensor and forming an at least essentially planar surface whose outline is adapted to the outline of the end face of the housing and coincides in an essentially flush manner with the end face of the housing of the ultrasonic sensor, and the sensor cover reflecting light having a color spectrum in the range of chrome color and a reflection capacity in the range of polished chrome.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 29, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 16, 2010
    Assignee: Robert Bosch GmbH
    Inventors: Gunther Schaaf, Nils Janke
  • Patent number: 7832294
    Abstract: A measuring probe is provided for measurements in metal or slag melts, the probe having a measuring head with an immersion end and a rear end, and having sensors arranged on the immersion end with signal lines. The sensors and signal lines are guided through the measuring head by channels, and a separate channel is provided for each sensor. A measuring probe is also provided for measurements in metal or slag melts, the probe having a measuring head with an immersion end and a rear end, having sensors arranged on the immersion end, and having lateral recesses arranged in front of the rear end.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 14, 2006
    Date of Patent: November 16, 2010
    Assignee: Heraeus Electro-Nite International, N.V.
    Inventor: Guido Jacobus Neyens
  • Patent number: 7824620
    Abstract: Disclosed are methods for fabricating integrated nano-scale and micro-scale structures. Also disclosed are carbon nanopipettes, shovels, and sheets made by these methods. Nano-scale and micro-scale structures fabricated by the disclosed methods are useful in a variety of application, for example, nanoelectrodes, functionalized probes for chemical and biological sensing, nanopipettes for fluid and macromolecule transfer, and devices for the dispensing and deposition of nanodrops.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 21, 2005
    Date of Patent: November 2, 2010
    Assignee: The Trustees Of The University Of Pennsylvania
    Inventors: Haim H. Bau, Byong M. Kim
  • Patent number: 7823470
    Abstract: A cantilever includes: a lever portion; a holder portion supporting the proximal end of the lever portion; a probe portion arranged at the distal end of the lever portion and having a spherical surface to face a sample; and a retaining portion fixed to the distal end of the lever portion and retaining the probe portion to surround a periphery of the probe portion. There is provided a cantilever allowing mounting of a probe portion with little effect in a short time without using any adhesive.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 22, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 2, 2010
    Assignee: Seiko Instruments Inc.
    Inventors: Masatsugu Shigeno, Osamu Matsuzawa, Naoya Watanabe, Amiko Nihei, Akira Inoue, Yoshiharu Shirakawabe, Hiroshi Muramatsu, Yuji Yamamoto
  • Publication number: 20100269603
    Abstract: A probe holder is disclosed. The probe holder includes a cable connected to a probe, an attachment portion provided to the cable, and a holding portion to which the attachment portion is detachably coupled to allow the cable to be held by the holding portion. The probe holder prevents the cable connected to the probe from drooping when the probe is held by a probe holding member, thereby preventing the cable from being contaminated or damaged due to contact with a floor.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 22, 2010
    Publication date: October 28, 2010
    Inventor: Jae Yoon SHIM
  • Patent number: 7819035
    Abstract: A connector system for attaching a probe to a probe shaft mating assembly comprising: a probe shaft mating assembly comprising a connector body, a plunger chamber located within the connector body, a spring located within the plunger chamber, a locking ball channel extending through the connector body from the plunger chamber to the outer surface of the connector body, a locking ball located within the locking ball channel, and a plunger located within the plunger chamber adjacent to the spring, wherein the locking ball is in contact with the outer surface of the plunger; a probe comprising a probe body, a probe shaft chamber located within the probe shaft facing end of the probe body, and a locking ball receiver located in the probe body adjacent to the probe shaft chamber; wherein the diameter of the probe shaft chamber is larger than that of the probe shaft mating assembly such that when the plunger and the spring are moved from a first position to a second position, the locking ball moves inwardly towards
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 14, 2008
    Date of Patent: October 26, 2010
    Assignee: GE Inspection Technologies, LP
    Inventors: Jeffrey Draper, Matthew Wolf
  • Patent number: 7819034
    Abstract: The performance of scanning systems can be significantly enhanced by replacing the traditional power track with preferably just two wires or transmission channels for effecting communication between (i) the sensors on the mobile carriage of the scanning system and (ii) the controls, power sources, and related devices that are typically located in a compartment or module which is a significant distance away. This can be implemented by employing selected multiplexer and complementary de-multiplexer combinations in the scanner head and in the module. This technique reduces EMI noise, power loss, drag on the moving scanner heads carrying the sensors, and cost of construction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 10, 2007
    Date of Patent: October 26, 2010
    Assignee: Honeywell ASCa Inc.
    Inventor: Wojtek T. Jasinski
  • Publication number: 20100263462
    Abstract: There is provided a method of manufacturing a concave connector substrate that has high connection accuracy, a low manufacturing cost, and high flexibility in design, can ensure stable repeated use, and significantly improve use convenience.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 19, 2010
    Publication date: October 21, 2010
    Inventor: Hidehiro NAKAMURA
  • Patent number: 7811239
    Abstract: The present invention provides a medical device for measuring cervical dilation, where the medical device is positionable about a hand having first and second fingers, with each finger having a tip and a side surface. The medical device may include a housing, a first extension element movably coupled to the housing, a second extension element movably coupled to the housing, and a dilation indication mechanism to measure a distance between the first and second extension elements. The medical device may also include a first lateral pressure sensor positionable about a side surface of the first finger, a second lateral pressure sensor positionable about a side surface of the second finger, a third pressure sensor positionable about a tip of the first finger, and a fourth pressure sensor positionable about a tip of the second finger.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 11, 2006
    Date of Patent: October 12, 2010
    Assignee: Intrapartum, LLC
    Inventors: Dharmesh Dubey, Tim Baird
  • Patent number: 7810381
    Abstract: A hydrostatically compensated soil resistance probe includes a cylindrical body having a distal tip for insertion into a material, a plurality of load gates for transitioning an axial load on said cylindrical body to a shear load, and a plurality of shear load sensors to measure a transverse loading on said probe due to an axial loading. The axial loading can be the result of the resistance on the probe tip to the insertion of the probe in the soil, or the frictional forces acting on a friction sleeve as the probe passes through the soil.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 11, 2008
    Date of Patent: October 12, 2010
    Assignee: Gregg Drilling & Testing, Inc.
    Inventor: Ronald Boggess
  • Publication number: 20100253947
    Abstract: An optical inspection apparatus capable of adjusting an incident angle of a detected light beam and adjusting a detecting angle for detecting the detected light beam. A driving mechanism is used to actuate two arms having a light source and a detector disposed thereon respectively to conduct a relative movement between the two arms so as to control the incident angle and the detecting angle. By means of the embodiments, mechanism for adjusting the angle is simplified so that the apparatus is capable of being adapted to combine with the application of micro sensors such that practicality of modularization design and microminiaturization and convenience of operation are capable of being greatly improved and that the cost can be reduced.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 16, 2009
    Publication date: October 7, 2010
    Applicant: Industrial Technology Research Institute
    Inventors: HSUEH-CHING SHIH, JIA-HUEY TSAO, CHIH-CHENG FENG, CHUN-LIN CHIANG, CHUN-MIN SU, KUO-CHI CHU
  • Publication number: 20100251838
    Abstract: A test fixture for use with a Dynamic Mechanical Analyzer (DMA) restrains a hollow cylindrical tube for purposes of performing either a tensile or transverse/bending load test. The fixture includes a clamp that is configured to restrain the tube without imparting a preload or changing a mechanical property of the tube.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 18, 2010
    Publication date: October 7, 2010
    Applicant: Abbott Cardiovascular Systems Inc.
    Inventors: Jonathan Halderman, James Oberhauser, Yunbing Wang
  • Patent number: 7806010
    Abstract: This invention relates to a rotating test port assembly for measuring air flow and particulate matter in conduits. The test port assembly includes a first end section, a second end section, and a rotating section adapted for rotation between the first and second end sections. The assembly further includes a test port positioned on the rotating section for allowing a test probe to be inserted into a stream flowing in a conduit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 14, 2008
    Date of Patent: October 5, 2010
    Assignee: Electric Power Research Institute, Inc.
    Inventors: Robert G. Mudry, Matthew M. Fleming, Bruce Delvin
  • Publication number: 20100250003
    Abstract: Platforms for detecting, identifying and/or designating objects. Platforms according to one embodiment of the invention include an extendable mast connected to a skid via a linkage that allows pivoting of the mast with respect to the skid, and preferably does not permit rotation of the mast; at least two actuators connected to the mast; at least one inclination sensor; at least one detection sensor connected to the mast for detecting presence of an object; and circuitry that receives information from the inclination sensors and plumbs the mast. Coupling and actuator mechanisms are disclosed for connecting the mast to the skid in a manner that allows the mast to be stable for accurate use of the sensors, yet easily and quickly deployable for such use, whether the platform is deployed from the bed of a truck or when the skid is on the ground and the mast is fully extended.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 5, 2010
    Publication date: September 30, 2010
    Inventors: Christopher J. Nieboer, Josh H. Strange, Brandon T. Harbuck
  • Patent number: 7802477
    Abstract: A probe is inserted at a predetermined speed into a food to be measured, and vibrations created by the insertion are acquired by a piezoelectric element. The vibrations are displayed, and the pulse number per unit time on the basis of the insertion speed of the probe is calculated so that the oral sensation of the food is quantitatively specified with the pulse number.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 18, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 28, 2010
    Assignee: Hiroshima University
    Inventor: Naoki Sakurai
  • Patent number: 7798017
    Abstract: Ram pressure probe having two ducts which are separated from one another and lead with one of their ends to a pressure measuring sensor, with a fluidic differential pressure increasing element and an opening at the respective other end of each duct, the openings being arranged at various locations between which there is a higher value for the differential pressure, generated by the effect of the differential pressure increasing element, than the value of the dynamic pressure of the flowing fluid, and all the openings (9a, 9b) are arranged in such a way that the vertical axis passes through the opening surface at an angle to the direction (S) of flow which prevails during the measuring process.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 14, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 21, 2010
    Assignee: Systec Controls Mess-und Regelungstechnik GmbH
    Inventor: Oliver Betz
  • Publication number: 20100231243
    Abstract: An electrode holder comprising a deck member with handle supporting a pair of penetrating electrodes to which a hypodermic syringe or needles may be connected and which may act as electrodes in a BIA system and/or in connection with making other electrical measurements.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 11, 2009
    Publication date: September 16, 2010
    Inventors: Neal S. Latman, Joseph E. Batson, JR., Alan Nicholson, Ladislado Garza, Mike Floyd