Abstract: A bone screw removal system for a bone screw retaining system that includes an implant having a plate, which defines a plurality of transversely extending bores that are configured to receive a bone screw for engaging the plate to the cervical spine, and an elastically deformable spring member positioned therein a cavity of the plate such that portions of the spring member can extend into a portion of an upper region of each of the bores of a pair of opposing bores, the spring member being movable between a first relaxed, expanded position and a second, compressed position. The bone screw removal system having at least one tongue member that is configured to selectively act on the spring member of the bone screw retaining system.

Abstract: A portable route-based machine data collector stores audio files to supplement associated machine performance data, such as vibration data. The audio files, which may include voice comments, audio segments of raw vibration data, or frequency-shifted components of the vibration data, are stored in the data collector as standard-format digital audio files and are later downloaded to a computer for further analysis. Test personnel can then replay the audio files for data analysis personnel to get second opinions regarding whether machine faults may be indicated by the recorded sounds. Also, audio files associated with normal and abnormal machine operation may be saved on the portable data collector and used as baselines or for training purposes. Verbal operating instructions may also be stored as audio files on the portable data collector for replay by test operators in the field.

Abstract: A low power vibration sensor and wireless transmitter system has one or more sensors that sense parameters of a machine including vibration and produces dynamic signals representing the sensed parameters. The system converts the signals to a digital format, digitally filters the signals, and processes the signals. A processor determines a plurality of levels, which represent the characteristics of the signal such as the peak value of a predetermined set of data points of the digital signal. Together, the levels comprise a PeakVue waveform. The processor determines the peak level value for the PeakVue waveform. Also, a true root-mean-square is calculated as the signal is received at the processor. The peak level and the RMS value are communicated wirelessly by a communication module to a control protocol network such as a daisy chain HART or Fieldbus protocol network. The system power supply and the communication module power supply are separate and allow for low power operation.

Abstract: A portable route-based machine data collector stores audio files to supplement associated machine performance data, such as vibration data. The audio files, which may include voice comments, audio segments of raw vibration data, or frequency-shifted components of the vibration data, are stored in the data collector as standard-format digital audio files and are later downloaded to a computer for further analysis. Test personnel can then replay the audio files for data analysis personnel to get second opinions regarding whether machine faults may be indicated by the recorded sounds. Also, audio files associated with normal and abnormal machine operation may be saved on the portable data collector and used as baselines or for training purposes. Verbal operating instructions may also be stored as audio files on the portable data collector for replay by test operators in the field.

Abstract: A low power vibration sensor and wireless transmitter system has one or more sensors that sense parameters of a machine including vibration and produces dynamic signals representing the sensed parameters. The system converts the signals to a digital format, digitally filters the signals, and processes the signals. A processor determines a plurality of levels, which represent the characteristics of the signal such as the peak value of a predetermined set of data points of the digital signal. Together, the levels comprise a PeakVue waveform. The processor determines the peak level value for the PeakVue waveform. Also, a true root-mean-square is calculated as the signal is received at the processor. The peak level and the RMS value are communicated wirelessly by a communication module to a control protocol network such as a daisy chain HART or Fieldbus protocol network. The system power supply and the communication module power supply are separate and allow for low power operation.

Abstract: Superabsorbent polymer (SAP) particels containing a clay are disclosed. The clay is added to an SAP hydrogel prior to SAP neutralization to provide particles having improved fluid acquisition rates and an improved permeability of a fluid through the swollen SAP-clay particles. Diaper cores and absorbent articles containing the SAP-clay particles also are disclosed.

Abstract: A fixation device for use in association with ALIF procedures includes a couple of spaced plates having integral spikes on facing surfaces thereof for pressing into spinal processes of adjacent vertebrae. One of the plates has a spherical socket which captures a spherical head end of a post whose other end is received through an aperture in the other plate. The socket mounting is arranged to enable the post to pivot therein for at least two degrees of freedom to a limited extent, enabling angulation between the two plates so as to accommodate the different thicknesses and orientations of the spinal processes on adjacent vertebrae. The reception of the post in the second plate enables adjustment of spacing between the plates to accommodate effective installation of the assembly on the spinal processes by a compression instrument, and permanent reliable maintenance of that spacing following removal of the compression instrument.

Abstract: A diagnostic apparatus and method for sensing a signal emanating from a machine and determining a periodic machine event based on the emanated signal. The apparatus includes analog to digital processing components for digitizing the sensed signal, producing a digitized signal. The apparatus also includes a transform algorithm, memory, an analysis algorithm, and a display. The transform algorithm transforms the digitized signal to generate power spectral density and autocorrelation data which is stored in the memory. The analysis algorithm includes criteria for analyzing the stored power spectral density and autocorrelation data to determine a period machine event based at least in part upon the autocorrelation data. The display displays the periodic machine event to a user. In the event of a suspected defect or fault, the device alerts the user. The user may then elect to proceed with repairs or undertake advanced analysis of the suspected fault as economy dictates.

Abstract: A multi-axis vibration sensor with integral magnet optimizes sensor response in a non-permanently attachable package. In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the apparatus includes a housing having a magnet, a multi-axis vibration sensor for sensing vibration along multiple machine axes, and conditioning circuitry disposed within the housing. The magnet enables the apparatus to be placed in sensory contact with the machine. The vibration sensor senses machine vibration along multiple machine axes when the apparatus is in sensory contact with the machine, and the conditioning circuitry optimizes the frequency response of the vibration sensor by reducing the gain of the sensor output at resonance. The vibration sensor may be mounted directly to existing machine structure, such as the machine's outer casing. Two parallel feet facilitate stable mounting of the sensor curved surface. A keyed mounting pad may be employed to facilitate proper orientation of the sensor.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for sensing and measuring stress waves. The method comprises the steps of: a.) sensing motion, where the motion comprises a stress wave component and a vibration component; b.) separating the stress wave component from the vibration component with a high pass filter to create a signal proportional to the stress wave; c.) amplifying the signal to create an amplified signal; d.) processing the amplified signal with a sample and hold peak detector over a predetermined interval of time to determine peaks of the amplified signal over said predetermined period of time; e.) creating an output signal proportional to the determined peaks of the amplified signal; and, f.) repeating steps d.) and e.). The invention also includes an apparatus for implementing the method of the invention.

Abstract: A multi-axis vibration sensor with integral magnet optimizes sensor response in a non-permanently attachable package. In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the apparatus includes a housing having a magnet, a multi-axis vibration sensor for sensing vibration along multiple machine axes, and conditioning circuitry disposed within the housing. The magnet enables the apparatus to be placed in sensory contact with the machine. The vibration sensor senses machine vibration along multiple machine axes when the apparatus is in sensory contact with the machine, and the conditioning circuitry optimizes the frequency response of the vibration sensor in a preferred embodiment by reducing the gain of the sensor output at resonance. The vibration sensor may be mounted directly to existing machine structure, such as the machine's outer casing. Two parallel feet facilitate stable mounting of the sensor to a curved surface.

Abstract: A fixation device for use in association with ALIF procedures includes a couple of spaced plates having integral spikes on facing surfaces thereof for pressing into spinal processes of adjacent vertebrae. One of the plates has a spherical socket which captures a spherical head end of a post whose other end is received through an aperture in the other plate. The socket mounting is arranged to enable the post to pivot therein for at least two degrees of freedom to a limited extent, enabling angulation between the two plates so as to accommodate the different thicknesses and orientations of the spinal processes on adjacent vertebrae. The reception of the post in the second plate enables adjustment of spacing between the plates to accommodate effective installation of the assembly on the spinal processes by a compression instrument, and permanent reliable maintenance of that spacing following removal of the compression instrument.

Abstract: A diagnostic apparatus and method for sensing a signal emanating from a machine and determining a periodic machine event based on the emanated signal. The apparatus includes analog to digital processing components for digitizing the sensed signal, producing a digitized signal. The apparatus also includes a transform algorithm, memory, an analysis algorithm, and a display. The transform algorithm transforms the digitized signal to generate power spectral density and autocorrelation data which is stored in the memory. The analysis algorithm includes criteria for analyzing the stored power spectral density and autocorrelation data to determine a period machine event based at least in part upon the autocorrelation data. The display displays the periodic machine event to a user. In the event of a suspected defect or fault, the device alerts the user. The user may then elect to proceed with repairs or undertake advanced analysis of the suspected fault as economy dictates.

Abstract: An apparatus for determining the rotational speed of an object returning diffuse reflections where no reflective singularity exists on the object or no clearly distinct light pulse is produced. A light source illuminates a target area on the object. An optical system receives the reflected light, selectively filters by wavelength, and focuses the light on a detector for signal processing. The reflected light signals may be a series of complex patterns that repeat once per revolution. A Fourier Transform with additional processing enhancements is performed on the signals and used as a basis to calculate the speed of the object The signal processing may be automated, resulting in a speed (RPM) solution being displayed for the operator of the device.

Abstract: An integral magnet vibration sensor apparatus optimizes sensor response in a non-permanently attachable package. In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the apparatus includes a housing having a magnet, a vibration sensor, and a conditioning circuit disposed within the housing. The magnet enables the apparatus to be magnetically attached to a machine. The vibration sensor senses machine vibration when the apparatus is attached to the machine, and the conditioning circuit optimizes the frequency response of the vibration sensor in a preferred embodiment by reducing the gain of the sensor output at resonance.

Abstract: An apparatus for determining the rotational speed of an object returning diffuse reflections where no reflective singularity exists on the object or no clearly distinct light pulse is produced. A light source illuminates a target area on the object. An optical system receives the reflected light, selectively filters by wavelength, and focuses the light on a detector for signal processing. The reflected light signals may be a series of complex patterns that repeat once per revolution. A Fourier Transform with additional processing enhancements is performed on the signals and used as a basis to calculate the speed of the object. The signal processing may be automated, resulting in a speed (RPM) solution being displayed for the operator of the device.

Abstract: A sensor mount provides for attachment of a vibration sensor or other sensor to a machine without having to turn or rotate the sensor. In conjunction with a sensor module having an integral sensor and a shoulder formed at the outer periphery of the sensor module, the invention provides a coupler having a lower threaded portion for being threadingly engaged with a corresponding threaded recess formed in the machine. An externally threaded upper portion of the coupler remains exposed above the machine structure. A fastener is configured to attach the sensor module to the coupler by engaging the sensor module shoulder and the exposed upper portion of the coupler. The fastener may be captured to the sensor module or separable therefrom. When attached to a machine, the fastener and coupler are substantially symmetrically positioned with respect to a central axis of the sensor.

Abstract: A method of configuring and synchronizing a wireless machine monitoring system that has at least one chain, that includes at least one machine monitor and at least one repeater is disclosed. The wireless machine monitoring system may further include a master repeater that is in communication with the chain and a command station that is in communication with the master repeater. The wireless machine monitoring system is configured so that only one element of the system is communicating at any given time. In addition, bit error rate transmission tests are performed on the elements of the system to determine their ability to communicate at different transmission power levels. Thus, power consumption of battery powered elements is minimized by decreasing the amount of time the devices are active and by configuring the communicating elements to transmit at the lowest acceptable power level.

Abstract: A monitor attaches to a machine or proximate a machine to determine the health and operating status of the machine. The monitor is preferably self-contained, having its own internal power source, electronics, and sensor suite. One or more sensors are provided to sense machine operating characteristics such as temperature, flux, and vibration. Sensor outputs are processed and analyzed by monitor electronics to determine various operating parameters, including machine speed and load, and to determine when an anomalous machine operating condition is present. Monitor electronics are operable to transform time domain data generated by the sensors to frequency domain data for storage and/or analysis. A communications port enables a peripheral device, such as a notebook computer or portable data collector, to communicate with the monitor and download stored data.

Abstract: A portable digital ultrasonic monitoring system and method for use by an operator in detecting the ultrasonic waves and temperature variations produced by sources such as leaks in pipes, arcing, electrical corona and machinery defects is provided. The digital ultrasonic monitoring system includes a microprocessor based system in a hand held elongate housing that digitally analyzes and stores information received from its sensors. The digital ultrasonic monitoring system provides a referenced decibel output reading of the signal strength of the received ultrasonic signals. In addition, a heterodyned type audio signal that is related to the sensed ultrasonic signals is provided to the operator through a pair of headphones. The portable device has user input keys that allow the operator to select from a variety of different operating modes. A display displays a variety of different readings depending upon the operating mode of the device.