Patents Issued in January 10, 1989
  • Patent number: 4796428
    Abstract: A double-acting accelerated forging hammer and method of operation are disclosed. The hammer is of the type having a vertically oriented cylinder, a piston slidably mounted within the cylinder having a downwardly depending piston rod extending along the cylinder and attached to a hammer. A gas accumulator communicates with the cylinder above the piston for supplying gas under pressure thereto during a forging stroke, and a fluid accumulator communicating with the cylinder below the piston for supplying fluid thereto at a higher pressure than the gas to dirve the piston upwardly during a return stroke. A fluid tank supplies fluid to recharge the accumulator and receives fluid from the cylinder during the forging stroke. Variable valves control the rate of fluid flow from the cylinder and thereby control the rate at which the piston descends within the cylinder.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 17, 1983
    Date of Patent: January 10, 1989
    Assignee: Oilgear Towler, Inc.
    Inventor: Richard W. Hall
  • Patent number: 4796429
    Abstract: A combustor diffuser assembly for a gas turbine engine includes a prediffuser for receiving compressed air from a gasifier impeller of a gas turbine engine and for directing it into the inlet of a vortex controlled downstream diffuser and wherein the prediffuser and vortex controlled diffuser are spaced to form gaps for air bleed to form vortices to minimize bleed and main diffuser flow pressure drop and to minimize distortion in compressed air flow to plural passages leading to primary and secondary air openings in the inner and outer walls of an annular combustor assembly for the gas turbine engine.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 15, 1976
    Date of Patent: January 10, 1989
    Assignee: General Motors Corporation
    Inventor: Albert J. Verdouw
  • Patent number: 4796430
    Abstract: Modified Stirling cycle refrigerators having a cam drive unit which is illustrated as being implemented either as a rotatable cylinder having a pair of circumferential camming grooves or as wobble plates having camming tracks on the periphery thereof. The cam drive unit drives the compressor and expander piston of the refrigerator through cam followers. Refrigerator embodiments having a plurality of compressor-expander piston pairs driven from a single cam drive are also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 14, 1987
    Date of Patent: January 10, 1989
    Assignee: Cryodynamics, Inc.
    Inventors: Stephen F. Malaker, Alfred Gorawski
  • Patent number: 4796431
    Abstract: The invention provides a means of producing at least one of high purity nitrogen and low to medium purity oxygen (up to about 97% purity) at high recovery (above 96% for oxygen). The LP column efficiency is improved to reduce the energy requirement, without offsetting reduction in LN.sub.2 reflux availability. Referring to FIG. 1, this is done by providing intermediate height reboil to LP column 3 by a latent heat exchanger 10 in which HP rectifier 5 overhead N.sub.2 vapor which has been partially expanded in expander 9 is condensed and kettle liquid is evaporated. The condensed N.sub.2 is then used to reflux column 3 after depressurization by valve 13.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 15, 1986
    Date of Patent: January 10, 1989
    Inventor: Donald C. Erickson
  • Patent number: 4796432
    Abstract: A liquid cryogen dewar is constructed in which two or more liquid cryogen chambers are suspended within a case wherein the innermost cryogens have a higher boiling, or sublimation, temperature than the cryogen in the next outermost chamber. The chambers may contain liquid helium, liquid nitrogen and solid CO.sub.2 proceeding from the innermost to the outermost chamber. Superconducting electronic circuitry such as SQUID devices may be connected to the outer case of the liquid helium cryogen chamber. An isothermal shield is also suspended outside the helium chamber. The elements of the dewar are supported by glass epoxy rods and polyester cords of low thermal conductivity. A fill and exhaust port is provided which communicates with fill and exhaust tubes that are heat sunk to various locations of the rods and the Dacron cords.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 9, 1987
    Date of Patent: January 10, 1989
    Assignee: Unisys Corporation
    Inventors: Dale J. Fixsen, Roger N. Hastings, John A. Imsdahl
  • Patent number: 4796433
    Abstract: A recondenser with a primary heat exchanging surface for recondensing boil-off within a cryostat provides a second heat exchanging surface for removing heat leak into the cryostat. The second surface is cooled by the same working fluid that cools the primary surface, but at a temperature intermediate that of the primary surface and associated cooling apparatus which is remote from the cryostat. An intermediate transfer line transfers working fluid from an intermediate portion of the cooling apparatus to the second surface which is in heat exchange relation with a radiation shield of the cryostat but is out of physical contact with the radiation shield. The cooling apparatus includes a mechanical refrigerator which further cools working fluid returned from the second surface through the intermediate transfer line. The intermediate transfer line is preferably positioned in a non-contact helical manner about a final transfer line which carries the working fluid to the primary surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 6, 1988
    Date of Patent: January 10, 1989
    Assignee: Helix Technology Corporation
    Inventor: Allen J. Bartlett
  • Patent number: 4796434
    Abstract: The apparatus for providing a measured amount of a low boiling liquefied gas which can flow from an outlet of a thermally insulated container includes a fleece made of natural material, plastic material or metal connected with the outlet of the container, advantageously located immediately downstream of the outlet. This fleece provides a satisfactory separation of liquid and gas phases and thus a laminar liquefied gas flow and can assist in preventing freezing at the outlet due to moisture in the air. Advantageously a precise regulating valve which is sunk in the liquefied gas in the supply container provides continuous regulation of the liquefied gas flow.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 25, 1987
    Date of Patent: January 10, 1989
    Inventor: Franz Garnreiter
  • Patent number: 4796435
    Abstract: An improved animal by-products and hides chiller is provided for use in the packing plant for chilling fresh by-products and hides so that spoilage is minimized. The chiller generally includes a rotatable elongated tank having an inlet end for introducing the warm by-products or hides and an outlet end for removing the cooled by-products or hides from the tank. The side wall of the tank is void of apertures such that the need to clean the tank is minimized. As the tank rotates, baffle bars agitate the by-products or hides. The baffle bars are removably secured to the interior of the tank, and can be exchanged with other baffle bars so as to accommodate various types of by-products or hides being chilled. A strainer unit is positioned at the outlet end of the tank and receives the cooled by-products and the liquid coolant. The liquid coolant drains through a plurality of removable straining trays in a strainer unit so as to remove solids from the liquid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 22, 1986
    Date of Patent: January 10, 1989
    Assignee: Omaha Cold Storage Terminals, Inc.
    Inventor: Glenn H. Mattson
  • Patent number: 4796436
    Abstract: A method of controllably charging a heat pump system with refrigerant until adequately charged for the cooling mode of operation, including checking the outdoor ambient temperature, injecting sufficient refrigerant to sustain safe compressor operation, operating the compressor at higher or lower rates depending upon the detected ambient temperature level and determining when to halt charging by monitoring indoor coil inlet and suction temperature differences in the heat pump system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 9, 1986
    Date of Patent: January 10, 1989
    Assignee: Carrier Corporation
    Inventors: Roger J. Voorhis, John M. Palmer, Derrick A. Marris, James D'Agostino
  • Patent number: 4796437
    Abstract: An economical heat pump system which uses a multifluid heat exchanger and the basic components of conventional heat pump systems including, as appropriate, a desuperheat exchanger. The invention may be operated in two conventional refrigerant flow configurations including heat pump space heating and cooling and simultaneous hot water heating via the desuperheater. The use of a multifluid heat exchanger allows the two refrigerant flow configurations to have nine operational modes. In one flow configuration the refrigerant is from the compressor, through the desuperheater, through a reversing valve, through the outdoor heat exchanger, through an expansion device, through the indoor heat exchanger and back to the compressor via the reversing valve. In the second configuration, the refrigerant flow is from the compressor, through the desuperheater, through the reversing valve, through the indoor heat exchanger, through an expansion device, through the outdoor heat exchanger and back to the compressor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 23, 1987
    Date of Patent: January 10, 1989
    Inventor: Larry S. James
  • Patent number: 4796438
    Abstract: A method and apparatus including a control device for controlling an automotive air conditioning system is disclosed which includes a temperature detecting sensor disposed in proximity to the air conditioning system, an acceleration detecting device for detecting acceleration of an automobile and a control unit. The control unit compares the detected air temperature with predetermined temperatures and controls the capacity of the compressor in accordance with the compared results and the acceleration condition of the automobile. Therefore, the temperature in a compartment of this automobile can be maintained at a comfortable level and the power load imposed on the automobile engine can be reduced by operating the compressor at a reduced capacity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 29, 1987
    Date of Patent: January 10, 1989
    Assignee: Sanden Corporation
    Inventor: Kenichiro Sato
  • Patent number: 4796439
    Abstract: An air conditioning system for a building according to the present invention essentially has a first thermal storage tank as a cold thermal source which is installed at a high place in the building, a second thermal storage tank as a hot thermal source which is installed at a low place in the building, air conditioners which are installed at various levels between the first thermal storage tank and the second thermal storage tank, and heat pipes of a gravity type with which the air conditioners are connected to the first thermal storage tank and the second thermal storage tank. This system dispenses with passages for water, typically used as a thermal medium, at the places where air conditioners are installed. The system makes it possible to lower the capacities of the air conditioning equipment, especially the capacity of the regrigerator included in the cold thermal source equipment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 28, 1987
    Date of Patent: January 10, 1989
    Assignees: Takenaka Komuten Co., Ltd., Sinko Kogyo Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Tetsuo Yamada, Yoshinori Inoue, Sinji Miura, Masao Endo, Setsuo Kaneda, Yashutoshi Yoshida
  • Patent number: 4796440
    Abstract: An ice cream preparation apparatus having a cold storage container with a hole through its bottom in which a supporting member is disposed. A rotating screw in the hole through the supporting member moves material through that hole and out the bottom of the container. A covering plate is selectively openable and closable over the hole. A first rotatable blade is inclined downwardly along the inner surface of the cold storage container moves material off the wall. A second blade rotates around the bottom of the container. A second screw type rotary member extends along the radial direction parallel to the second blade and is rotated for moving material toward the supporting member. A third blade is upstanding in the container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 19, 1987
    Date of Patent: January 10, 1989
    Assignee: Sanyei Corp.
    Inventors: Tadahiko Shiotani, Hideo Matsuura
  • Patent number: 4796441
    Abstract: An ice making machine comprises a housing having a cooled wall. A eutectic mixture is passed across the wall to be cooled below its freezing point and form ice. A blade continuously wipes the wall to move the fluid away from the wall and into the body of the fluid. The blades are moved by a drive means at a rate such that the surface is wiped prior to crystalization of the ice on the wall.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 28, 1987
    Date of Patent: January 10, 1989
    Assignee: Sunwell Engineering Company Limited
    Inventor: Vladimir Goldstein
  • Patent number: 4796442
    Abstract: A removable holding ring on an item of jewelry holds a replaceable insert which has a groove included in its top adapted for slidably retaining a replaceable ornament with a portion exposed for public view. Resilient support between the insert and the item permits full seating of the holding ring on the item. The holding ring is attached on the item by a resilient extension with dimples to engage a reduced diameter section with grooves on the item.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 4, 1986
    Date of Patent: January 10, 1989
    Assignee: Sarcona Bros.
    Inventor: Anthony O. Sarcona
  • Patent number: 4796443
    Abstract: A support device for an earring which includes a back support. A back ear clamping member carried by the back support is adjustable to a forward and rearward position with respect to a front ear clamping member. The back ear clamping member is free to move limitedly in both a horizontal and vertical direction when either in forward or rearward adjusted position, but when in an intermediate position is substantially restrained from movement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 2, 1987
    Date of Patent: January 10, 1989
    Assignee: Trifari, Krussman & Fishel, Inc.
    Inventors: A. Karen Bannister, Kristen Brandriff, John A. Carlotto, Richard J. DiDonato, Virginia Haigh, Edmond Sirois
  • Patent number: 4796444
    Abstract: Methods for circular weft knitting of variegated articles and selectively programmable circular weft knitting machine apparatus for carrying out such methods including means for effecting selective, controlled two dimensional displacement of compound needle member components and associated sinker elements so as to provide each such needle member with the selectable capability of performing a knit, tuck or float operation at each yarn feed location independent of the direction of knitting needle approach thereto.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 28, 1986
    Date of Patent: January 10, 1989
    Inventor: E. C. Tibbals, Jr.
  • Patent number: 4796445
    Abstract: A door locking mechanism for use with an outwardly swinging door comprising a bar permanently mounted on the inside of the door spanning the width. At each end of the bar is mounted a locking member in the form of a plate which is rotatable between a first position blocking the door against opening and a second position releasing the door. Padlocks may be employed to lock the plates in either position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 15, 1986
    Date of Patent: January 10, 1989
    Inventor: Howard P. Norden, Jr.
  • Patent number: 4796446
    Abstract: A combination lock of the type adapted for changing of the combination by a change key, a lock case housing, a stack of a plurality of tumbler wheels loosely journaled on a tumbler post for rotation about its axis and each including an annular outer rim portion and an inner annular hub portion having teeth releasably intercoupling the hub portion and rim portion at any of a plurality of relative angular positions. The rim portions of the tumbler wheels have specially shaped peripheral gates to receive confronting portions of a fence on the fence lever when the tumbler wheels are properly aligned. The tumbler post is supported within the tumbler wheel hub portions for nonrotatable axial movement to shift the hub portions axially relative to the outer rim portions between coupled and decoupled relation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 7, 1987
    Date of Patent: January 10, 1989
    Inventors: Harry C. Miller, Stephen Helesfai
  • Patent number: 4796447
    Abstract: This specification describes a lock where a key is inserted into a key cylinder and where the key sets a series of transfer tumblers. The tumblers project from the key cylinder, and the tumblers, in turn, set a series of lock opening elements into their prescribed positions. As the key-cylinder is rotated the transfer tumblers are moved out of contact with the elements. Only at this time can the lock be opened, provided that the elements had been correctly set.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 9, 1987
    Date of Patent: January 10, 1989
    Inventor: Jacob Rabinow
  • Patent number: 4796448
    Abstract: This invention relates to a lock where a key or a dial sets a set of elements into a unique configuration. The elements do not contain any information relating to the key. They are preferably all alike and, preferably, each of them terminates in a pointed end. Co-operating with these elements, the lock contains a perforated or indented reference plate where the perforation, or indentations, are so located that when the proper key or combination is fed into the lock the ends of the elements can all enter the plate and the lock can be opened. The lock has the additional feature that when it is desired to change the key, or the combination, only the plate needs to be changed. The key-set or the dial-set elements remain the same.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 4, 1988
    Date of Patent: January 10, 1989
    Inventor: Jacob Rabinow
  • Patent number: 4796449
    Abstract: The machine incorporates at least two central rollers appropriately driven, and adjustable in height in order to disengage a finished object. In combination with the central rollers, side rollers are positioned in space by means of jacks. The positioning is permanently registered by sensors working in connection with a computer and probes positioned between the central rollers and the side roller for providing information compared to instructions from the computer in order to correctly position the side rollers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 30, 1986
    Date of Patent: January 10, 1989
    Assignee: Societe Nouvelle Des Ateliers Et Chantiers Du Havre
    Inventor: Jean G. Berne
  • Patent number: 4796450
    Abstract: A system for processing steel strips in a hot strip mill includes an apparatus and method for removing the oxide layer in the finishing mill process such that the final thickness of the oxide layer is much less than previously possible. In order to reduce the thickness of the oxide layer, the invention provides for the removal of oxide scales from the surface of the steel strips at a distance in front of the working rolls of the finishing mill that minimizes the time the strip is exposed to ambient conditions after it is descaled and before it is received between the pair of working rolls. By minimizing this exposure time, the thickness of the oxide layers in the finished strips is substantially reduced.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 22, 1986
    Date of Patent: January 10, 1989
    Inventor: David T. Blazevic
  • Patent number: 4796451
    Abstract: Apparatus for forming edgewise wound cores from continuous strip stock of a generally thin ferromagnetic material has a means operable generally at an intermittent rate for lancing the strip stock. The lancing means includes continuous driving means for effecting the operation of the lancing means at its intermittent rate and means operable generally for feeding the strip stock to the lancing means and the continuous strip therefrom concomitantly with the intermittent rate. Means arranged to receive the continuous step from the lancing means is operable continuously for deforming the continuous strip generally edgewise thereof into a plurality of generally helical convolutions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 4, 1986
    Date of Patent: January 10, 1989
    Assignee: General Electric Company
    Inventor: Harold L. Fritzsche
  • Patent number: 4796452
    Abstract: A setting device for adjusting the position of a roll with respect to a mating roll, as in the press section of a paper machine, or the like. A roll trunnion or journal at the end of the roll is received in a bearing which is supported in a bearing housing that is axially outward of the roll. The outer part of the bearing is in turn supported to an actuator which is shiftable to move the roll transversely of its axis with respect to the mating roll. A base plate hydraulically supports and raises the actuator for the bearing housing. A guide plate supported to the base plate extends past the roll trunnion or journal. Linear motion guide elements for guiding the motion of the bearing housing under the influence of the actuator are provided. They are guide claws on the bearing housing which wrap around the guide plate and move along it. An additional actuator piston operates on the roll trunnion or journal to move it in the opposite direction from the actuator.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 24, 1987
    Date of Patent: January 10, 1989
    Assignee: J. M. Voith GmbH
    Inventor: Christian Schiel
  • Patent number: 4796453
    Abstract: A hydraulic element including a working cylinder defining a cylinder chamber having an axis and containing hydraulic medium, a working piston movable in the cylinder chamber along the axis and having an interior end arranged to communicate with the hydraulic medium in the cylinder chamber, and an annular piston movable in the cylinder chamber, along the axis, and enclosing the working piston, the annular piston having an interior end communicating with the hydraulic medium in the cylinder chamber so that movement of one of the pistons in a first direction along the axis causes the other of the pistons to move in a second direction opposite to the first direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 18, 1987
    Date of Patent: January 10, 1989
    Assignee: Karl Hehl
    Inventor: Erhardt Reitter
  • Patent number: 4796454
    Abstract: A method of controlling the clamping movement of a single action drawing press having a fluid actuated pressure member wherein movement of the pressure member is interrupted by stops after a predetermined range of movement toward the base of the press.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 9, 1987
    Date of Patent: January 10, 1989
    Assignee: Redicon Corporation
    Inventors: Joseph D. Bulso, Jr., James A. McClung
  • Patent number: 4796455
    Abstract: A nosepiece for setting lockbolt fasteners includes an anvil housing connected to a collet member via a roll pin. The roll pin securely anchors a drawbar within the collet to form an non-threaded connection therebetween. The drawbar is adapted to be connected to and rigidly supported within a piston of an installation tool. The rigidity of the piston and tool is transferred to the nosepiece by the drawbar so as to prevent nosepiece deflection during setting of the lockbolt.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 24, 1987
    Date of Patent: January 10, 1989
    Assignee: Huck Manufacturing Company
    Inventor: Hendrik E. Rosier
  • Patent number: 4796456
    Abstract: In a forging machine which has four radial rams with respective tools together forming a closed bite, each tool overlaps one adjacent tool and is overlapped by the other adjacent tool, and can be adjusted laterally relative to the radial ram axis, in the operating plane of the rams and tools, for setting the bite size.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 29, 1986
    Date of Patent: January 10, 1989
    Assignee: SMS Hasenclever Maschinenfabrik GmbH
    Inventors: Heinz Schmoll, Peter Schubert, Hans A. Schubert, Klaus Schulze, Heinrich Kutz
  • Patent number: 4796457
    Abstract: A method of producing a flanged bush comprising the steps of: preparing a die having a through bore of a configuration conforming with the outer configuration of the flanged bush to be produced, and a flange-forming punch having a large-diameter portion of a diameter equal to the outside diameter of the flanged bush and a small-diameter portion of a diameter equal to the inside diameter of the bore in the flanged bush to be produced; inserting, by a coining punch, a cylindrical stock axially into the bore in the die from one axial end of the latter; and driving the flange-forming punch into the bore in the die from the other axial end of the latter so as to press the inner end of the stock, thereby to form the flange.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 15, 1987
    Date of Patent: January 10, 1989
    Assignee: Daido Metal Company Ltd.
    Inventor: Yoshio Iijima
  • Patent number: 4796458
    Abstract: A forging manipulator for a forging machine is moved longitudinally by a rack and pinion mechanism comprising a pair of longitudinal guide rails on opposite sides of the manipulator, and respective toothed racks associated with these guide rails, the toothed racks being inclined inwards (in cross section), and the manipulator carriage being provided with a respective travel drive for meshing with each rack, the travel drives similarly having their axes inclined to the horizontal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 19, 1987
    Date of Patent: January 10, 1989
    Assignee: SMS Hasenclever Maschinenfabrik GmbH
    Inventor: Peter Schubert
  • Patent number: 4796459
    Abstract: An accumulator system for establishing a clamping force on dies in a closed die forging device. The accumulator system includes an accumulator having a differential piston and a free piston. The small end of the differential piston forms a wall of the accumulator oil chamber hydraulically connected to variable volume oil chambers behind the dies. The big end of the differential piston and one side of the free piston form a low pressure gas chamber of the accumulator. The other side of the free piston forms a wall of a high pressure gas chamber of the accumulator. As the dies of the forging apparatus close, oil in the chambers behind the dies moves the differential piston against only the gas pressure in the low pressure gas chamber so that closure is essentially without impact.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 8, 1987
    Date of Patent: January 10, 1989
    Assignee: General Motors Corporation
    Inventors: William A. Mueller, Wolfgang Hoffmann
  • Patent number: 4796460
    Abstract: A die cushion construction for use in a press is the subject matter of the present invention. The instant die cushion construction includes a fixed plate connected to the press. A resilient cushion actuator has one end sealingly connected to the fixed plate. The resilient cushion actuator has an opposite end sealingly connected to a movable plate. The movable plate is adapted for connection to a portion of a die mounted in the press. A resilient snubber actuator has one end fixed relative to the fixed plate. The snubber actuator has an opposite movable end connected to the movable plate for affecting the rate of movement of the movable plate and a portion of the die. The snubber actuator is connected to means for allowing fluid to flow into the snubber actuator when the movable plate moves toward the snubber actuator.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 29, 1987
    Date of Patent: January 10, 1989
    Assignee: Kenneth L. Smedberg
    Inventors: Kenneth L. Smedberg, George J. Bozich, Robert J. Kotynski
  • Patent number: 4796461
    Abstract: The hydraulic crimping tool includes a piston follower mechanism to provide an automatically sequentially reduced crimping force and extent of crimping deformation in predetermined manner in dependence on the extent of travel of a movable crimping jaw toward a stationary jaw.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 2, 1986
    Date of Patent: January 10, 1989
    Assignee: Greenlee Textron Inc.
    Inventor: Howard Mead
  • Patent number: 4796462
    Abstract: A workpiece bite device having a pinch member provided at a side for biting a workpiece in a pair of flat cutters which are disposed with those working blades facing each other for rolling the workpiece. The pinch member is fitted to a cutter body such that a starting portion of the pinch member is positioned at a side for charging the workpiece rather than a starting portion of the working blades of the cutter body, a terminal portion is positioned at a side of the working blade starting portion of the cutter body, and a top of the pinch member protrudes higher than a top of the working blade starting portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 2, 1987
    Date of Patent: January 10, 1989
    Assignee: Fuji Tekko Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Hideo Hikuma, Masaji Yamada
  • Patent number: 4796463
    Abstract: An electromagnetic torque sensor arrangement comprising a pair of magnetic circuits differentially responsive to the twist of a rotary shaft under load. Each magnetic circuit comprises a stator assembly, and at least one deflectable element disposed therein on a pair of pins which experience relative rotation in relation to the twist of the shaft. The relative rotation causes deflection of the deflectable elements in relation to the twist, and the resulting variation in the permeability of the magnetic circuits is detected as a measure of the applied torque.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 6, 1987
    Date of Patent: January 10, 1989
    Assignee: General Motors Corporation
    Inventors: Izrail Tsals, Ilya Feygin, William Marder
  • Patent number: 4796464
    Abstract: An electronic oil pressure unit housing combines electronic signal conditioning circuitry to a series pressure sensor in a manner which provides interface to the oil pressure port of an automotive engine and connection to a wiring harness via an automotive waterproof connector. The package is comprised of a minimum number of components, is designed for Z-axis assembly and can be installed with a deep well socket.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 29, 1987
    Date of Patent: January 10, 1989
    Assignee: Chrysler Motors Corporation
    Inventor: Paul D. Miller
  • Patent number: 4796465
    Abstract: Large turbomachines such as steam turbines and gas turbines will have an operational lifetime which may be measured in terms of decades. During the operational lifetimes it is desirable to monitor the condition of major parts of the turbomachine such as rotors and rotor wheels. Procedures are available for non-destructive testing of major turbomachine parts but it is desirable to affirm the actual condition of a turbomachine rotor by a sacrificial test of a speciment taken from a forging from which the actual turbomachine part was made. Further, it is desirable that the specimen be in service with the turbomachine part so as to obtain an accurate operating experience. To this end, a specimen taken from a turbomachine forging is affixed to a finished turbomachine part and then run with the machine for latter removal and test.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 28, 1987
    Date of Patent: January 10, 1989
    Assignee: General Electric Company
    Inventors: Diether E. Carreno, Peter J. Morgan
  • Patent number: 4796466
    Abstract: A system for monitoring pipelines through which fluids, be they gases or liquids flow using conventional readily available monitoring equipment, that determines the probability of a leak as opposed to the actuality of a leak using a moving average of statistical information gained from a plurality of monitoring stations that monitor either pressure or flow.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 17, 1987
    Date of Patent: January 10, 1989
    Inventor: Ed Farmer
  • Patent number: 4796467
    Abstract: Automated test equipment is provided that performs quantitive tests and operational checks on respiratory protective devices including self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA). The testing device is comprised of a bench-top instrument cabinet containing electronic, electro-mechanical, and pneumatic components, a test head with the likeness of human form attached on top of the instrument cabinet, a detachable computer keyboard, and a pneumatic manifold and hose assembly. With the present invention, a layman operator can determine the readiness of the SCBA equipment for service. The present invention can also be used as a diagnostic tool during maintenance procedures.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 30, 1987
    Date of Patent: January 10, 1989
    Assignee: Biosystems Inc.
    Inventors: John F. Burt, Jeffrey M. Whynall, Jonathan Howe, Gilbert L. Knott, Tavin Harnvorakiat
  • Patent number: 4796468
    Abstract: Apparatus for use in measuring fluid density comprises a fluid carrying helical sample tube 50 made of a conductive material for passing current therethrough. A cylindrical coil fixing sleeve 58 form surrounds the helical sample tube and engages the tube to prevent relative movement of the turns. A high flux permanent magnet 60 is carried on one post 54 and is aligned along the axis of the tube. The magnetic field established by magnet 60 and the pole extension 64 will subject each current-carrying length element of the sample tube to an axial force, the sum of these forces resulting in a bodily axial movement of the sample tube. The sample tube is excited to spring resonance by passing current through the sample tube. The resonant frequency is measured and is indicative of the mass of the fluid contained in the coil and thereby of the fluid density.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 5, 1987
    Date of Patent: January 10, 1989
    Assignee: Public Health Laboratory Service Board
    Inventors: Barry Blake-Coleman, David Clarke
  • Patent number: 4796469
    Abstract: Process and apparatus for measuring liquid level changes in horizontally disposed cylindrical storage tanks compensates for thermal expansion and contraction of the liquid in the tank during the measurements. A vertically disposed substantially cylindrical container in the storage tank has a valve which controls fluid communication between the container and the storage tank. A float and associated sensing mechanism measure the level of liquid in the container. A measurement of the liquid level is made in the beginning of the test with fluid communication open between the container and the tank. A second measurement is taken after a fixed time period during which fluid communication between the container and the tank is closed. From the second measurement a theoretical liquid level is calculated which would exist in the tank due to temperature effects, and without leakage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 16, 1987
    Date of Patent: January 10, 1989
    Assignee: B-Conn, Inc.
    Inventors: Robert L. Brown, Roger W. Richesson
  • Patent number: 4796470
    Abstract: An indicating liquid funnel with simple, inexpensive indicating means which responds freely to rise of the liquid level within a container being filled approaching full fill in any operative position of the funnel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 24, 1982
    Date of Patent: January 10, 1989
    Assignee: The Alten Corporation
    Inventor: Frank U. Lahde
  • Patent number: 4796471
    Abstract: Heat is used to determine liquid level in a storage tank. An elongated heater that produces heat uniformly along its length is mounted vertically on the outside surface of the tank to extend substantially the full height of the tank. An elongated thermopile having a multiplicity of hot and cold junction pairs uniformly spaced along its length covers the heater so that heat from the heater travels in two different opposite directions, namely a first portion of the heat travels from the heater through the tank wall and into the tank; the other portion of the heat travels in the opposite direction from the heater through the thermopile and then into the ambient atmosphere. A meter indicates the amount of heat flow through the thermopile and its indication changes with change in level of the liquid in the tank.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 2, 1988
    Date of Patent: January 10, 1989
    Assignee: Thermonetics Corporation
    Inventor: Cullen M. Sabin
  • Patent number: 4796472
    Abstract: The linear position transducer of the present invention comprises a pair of elongated electrically conducting members disposed within an elongated tubular container following the length thereof, wherein at least one of the pair of elongated electrically conducting members has a high specific ohmic resistance. A plurality of normally open switches are disposed within the elongated tubular container at regular intervals in a parallel circuit arrangement intermediate the pair of elongated electrically conducting members, which switches are closed by a magnetic force field created by a magnet included in a marker slidably guided by the elongated tubular container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 10, 1987
    Date of Patent: January 10, 1989
    Inventor: Hyok S. Lew
  • Patent number: 4796473
    Abstract: Disclosed is a system for sensing the level of a body of liquid within a container. The system includes a shaft secured parallel to a vertical axis of said container, said shaft having a magnetically responsive digital switch. Further provided is a toroidally-shaped reference element situated circumferentially about the shaft and secured at fixed level thereto, the reference element having a magnetic axis which is co-directional with the axis of the shaft. Also provided is a toroidally-shaped measuring sensing element also situated circumferentially about said shaft and vertically above said reference element but without securement thereto, said sensing element having a magnetic axis co-directional with the axis of said shaft and having a polarity of the magnetic axis which is repulsive in relationship to the magnetic axis of the reference element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 4, 1987
    Date of Patent: January 10, 1989
    Assignee: Chem Tec Equipment Corp.
    Inventor: Craig S. Custer
  • Patent number: 4796474
    Abstract: A moving web tension monitoring apparatus of easily fabricated, relatively inexpensive and easily assembled construction comprises a cantilever mounted strain beam element coupled at the flexurable end thereof through a self-aligning bearing to one end of the support shaft for the web supporting guide roll by a coupling member removably fastened to the shaft end and having a multiply axially split expandable tubular collar portion projecting endwise from the shaft end into the self-aligning bearing and expanded by a locking member forcibly inserted into the collar portion to expand and tightly lock it to the bearing. The self-aligning bearing preferably is of the roller bearing type having barrel shaped roller elements, and the strain beam means preferably is of the twin beam type having a pair of vertically spaced, parallel beam members formed by drilling out the core of a metal block member from which the sensor member of the transducer is fabricated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 2, 1987
    Date of Patent: January 10, 1989
    Assignee: Cleveland Machine Controls, Inc.
    Inventor: Robert G. Koenig
  • Patent number: 4796475
    Abstract: A compact air sampling impactor assembly has an inlet nozzle overlying an impaction plate that is mounted on a flat housing that defines an interior chamber covered by a filter. An air flow outlet tube leading from the chamber is connected to an air pump and a flow is established through the nozzle so the air impinges on the impaction plate to leave particles thereon and the flow then passes through the filter to the chamber and then out the air outlet. The size is kept small for personal use. Cascade impactors can be made using additional flow paths defining covers in association with the basic impactor plate and filter-carrying housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 25, 1987
    Date of Patent: January 10, 1989
    Assignee: Regents of the University of Minnesota
    Inventor: Virgil A. Marple
  • Patent number: 4796476
    Abstract: A method and apparatus are disclosed for cross-stream sampling of bulk material from a conveyor belt. The apparatus includes a sampler movable through an arcuate path across the conveyor belt for removing a cross-stream increment of bulk material from the belt. Provision is made for modulating the normal troughing of the conveyor belt and supporting and conforming the belt to the arcuate path of the sampler. When the conveyor belt is modulated to conform to the arcuate path of the sampler and the sampler moves through its arcuate path, the sampler moves in close proximity to the upper surface of the conveyor belt to remove the cross-stream increment of bulk material from the belt. The invention is capable of taking a cross-stream increment when the conveyor belt is stopped or moving. The ability to remove cross-stream increments from a moving belt eliminates interruptions in the flow of bulk material being conveyed on the belt.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 29, 1987
    Date of Patent: January 10, 1989
    Inventor: John B. Long
  • Patent number: 4796477
    Abstract: An intermittent reversible indexing system having a rotary input and a rotary output with variable kinematic characteristics including an epicycloidal drive with dwell characteristics. A planetary carrier carrying a single planetary gear is driven about a first axis with the planetary gear in mesh with a stationary reaction gear concentric about said first axis. A drive member in the form of a shaft eccentric to the axis of the planetary engages and slides in a slot of an output member, thereby driving an output member about a second axis displaced from said first axis. The reaction gear is mounted for oscillation and a mechanism for oscillating the reaction gear is driven by an input power means which also drives the planetary carrier. A crank and lever mechanism or a simple cam mechanism can be used to oscillate the reaction gear in response to the input power means.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 5, 1983
    Date of Patent: January 10, 1989
    Inventor: John H. Brems