Abstract: A sensor device is used for sensing position of a movable component. The sensor device can be applied to multiple applications. For example, proper alignment between a shifter spline and a shifter position sensor of a transmission assembly can be confirmed by applying the sensor device of the present invention to confirm alignment of the transmission shifter with a transmission shifter position sensor during transmission assembly. A rotary sensor converts angular movement to a proportional electrical output. A converter then converts the proportional electrical output to an input which can be read. The location of the movable component is then determined, and displayed.

Abstract: A method is provided for testing and setting the position of a position sensor for a transmission. A shift control shaft is provided, and the position sensor is positioned to align with the shift control shaft, and provide a shift position output. A position sensor testing device is installed to test position rotation of the position sensor as the shift control shaft is moved through shift positions. The tested position rotation of the position sensor is compared with a predetermined window of accurate positioning for the position sensor. Finally, the position of the position sensor is set based on the comparison.

Abstract: A vehicle brake leakage detector installs between a vehicle brake pedal and a reference point such as a steering wheel, for testing vehicle hydraulic brake systems, and, specifically, for detecting brake fluid leaks. A brake contact at one end of the detector contacts the vehicle brake pedal and a reference end at the opposite end of the detector contacts any tangible reference location, such as a steering wheel. Force means are associated with the detector for applying force for pressurizing the vehicle brake fluid when the detector is installed. A sensor detects relative movement between the brake contact and reference end to determine whether any brake fluid leaks are present. An output source indicates whether any brake fluid leaks are detected.

Abstract: A pre-clean deluge system for cleaning automobile white bodies including a cleaning solution filtration and distribution system. The filtration system includes a series of filters specially adapted to remove metal particles from the cleaning solution. The distribution system includes deluge cannons that are position so as to deliver cleaning solution to the interior of the white body in a location during the white body travel so that the particles flushed therefrom are introduced into a small tank prior to a main tank in which the white body is subsequently immersed. The distribution system also provides regulated flow of cleaning solution to the deluge cannons, as well as a bypass to facilitate cycling of cleaning solution for end-of-shift filtration purposes.

Abstract: A pre-clean deluge system for cleaning automobile white bodies including a cleaning solution filtration and distribution system. The filtration system includes a series of filters specially adapted to remove metal particles from the cleaning solution. The distribution system includes deluge cannons that are position so as to deliver cleaning solution to the interior of the white body in a location during the white body travel so that the particles flushed therefrom are introduced into a small tank prior to a main tank in which the white body is subsequently immersed. The distribution system also provides regulated flow of cleaning solution to the deluge cannons, as well as a bypass to facilitate cycling of cleaning solution for end-of-shift filtration purposes.

Abstract: A device is provided for allowing detection of a switch closure across an air gap between components. The device comprises a wireless inductive coupled switch designed for use with any suitable proximity sensor. The switch and sensor transmit a switch closure at a closable switch across the air gap. When the wireless inductive coupled switch is moved into the sensing range of the inductive proximity sensor, the ferrite core portion of the inductive coupled switch and the coil surrounding the ferrite portion are inductively coupled by the alternating field generated by the inductive proximity sensor. The alternating magnetic flux lines of the inductive proximity sensor move back and forth through the ferrite core portion and the coil. As long as the closable switch is open, no current is induced into the coil.

Abstract: A control system for controlling a low-pressure die casting machine wherein the pressure within the dies more accurately tracks the desired recipe pressure. The control system senses pressure in the dies and compares the sensed pressure to desired pressure. Should the difference between the sensed pressure and the desired pressure be indicative of a problem in the casting operation, subsequent casting cycles are prevented. Should the difference between the sensed pressure and the desired pressure be indicative of a potential catastrophic failure, the current casting cycle is immediately terminated, thereby minimizing the possibility of catastrophic failure. The control system has commercially available and easily replaceable components and, thus, can be quickly repaired to reduce machine downtime should any component fail.

Abstract: A detection system and method is provided for detecting the position of a snap ring in a bearing assembly of a transmission system. A spreader pin and a bearing are installed directly into spreader segments. Spreader segments receive the bearing. A conductive sensor is then introduced in a surface of the spreader segments, whereby an incorrectly positioned snap ring will make contact with the conductive sensor, causing a current to flow through the spreader segments and through the snap ring to the conductive sensor. The primary advantage provided by the present invention is to detect the position of a snap ring during the pressing operation of pressing bearings into transmission cases, thereby avoiding damage to the transmission case caused by incorrect positioning of the snap ring.

Abstract: An apparatus and method are disclosed for receiving molten slag and molten metal or alloy resulting from the smelting of ore from a cupola and for separating the slag from the molten metal or alloy. The slag separator of the present invention includes a refracting lining to protect the separator from the mechanical, chemical and thermal properties of the molten mixture. During the process of separation, the refractory however, suffers from erosion due to the mechanical, chemical and thermal properties of the mixture. A water cooling jacket is provided on the outside of the refractory to reduce refractory erosion and greatly increase refractory life. In addition, the separator is provided with two chambers which allow the slag to rise to the top of the metal or alloy. The slag then flows out of the chambers. The use of two chambers greatly increases the purity of the metal or alloy by allowing almost all of the slag to settle out of the metal or alloy.

Abstract: An apparatus for recirculating a waterbased paint in a vehicle painting assembly line includes paint totes located substantially adjacent a circulating tank near the point of application of the paint, thus reducing line length and the cost of replacing the paint in the line. This feature is enabled because waterbased paints, unlike solvent-based paints, are not subject to the same volume location restrictions. By maintaining a supply of paint to a low volume tank within narrow limits, a high volume application requirement can be met. A single line recirculating system is also disclosed for use with either type of paint. A number of features of a working paint system are also disclosed, including orbital welding of the stainless steel tubing, passivation of the line, use of DI water for passivation and flushing of the system, low point drains for the system, limited surge, and the use of smooth bore components and transitions to avoid paint sedimentation and buildup.

Abstract: A method for recirculating a waterbased paint in a vehicle painting assembly line includes paint totes located substantially adjacent a circulating tank near the point of application of the paint, thus reducing line length and the cost of replacing the paint in the line. This feature is enabled because waterbased paints, unlike solvent-based paints, are not subject to the same volume location restrictions. By maintaining a supply of paint to a low volume tank within narrow limits, a high volume application requirement can be met. A single line recirculating system is also disclosed for use with either type of paint. A number of features of a working paint system are also disclosed, including orbital welding of the stainless steel tubing, passivation of the line, use of DI water for passivation and flushing of the system, low point drains for the system, limited surge, and the use of smooth bends and transitions to avoid paint sedimentation and buildup.