Patents Issued in August 28, 2001
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Patent number: 6279381Abstract: A vibration transducer has a pressure sleeve fastenable directly or indirectly on a structural component part causing vibrations, a sensor element which is held at the pressure sleeve on a radial outer side with an axial pretensioning, a plurality of contact disks including at least one contact disk provided with a radial inclination so as to form a plate spring for generating the axial pretensioning of the sensor element, and a seismic mass provided with an internal thread and screwable directly to the pressure sleeve for clamping the sensor element.Type: GrantFiled: December 21, 1999Date of Patent: August 28, 2001Assignee: Robert Bosch GmbHInventors: Hartmut Brammer, Uwe Hackel, Romuald Fries, Holger Krebs
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Patent number: 6279382Abstract: The present invention relates to a sealed vessel and a method of testing air tightness of the vessel. In the sealed vessel, the vessel body and a lid are sealed with two O-rings. The sealed vessel has a hole communicating the space sandwiched by the O-rings and the outside of the sealed vessel and a hole communicating the inside and outside of the sealed vessel. In case of testing the air tightness of the inner O-ring, gaseous helium is injected into the space sandwiched by the O-rings and the gaseous helium spread into the vessel is measured. In case of testing the air tightness of the outer O-ring, the vessel is pressurized by the gaseous helium from the outside and the gaseous helium spread in the space sandwiched by the O-rings is measured.Type: GrantFiled: February 10, 1999Date of Patent: August 28, 2001Assignee: NEC CorporationInventor: Tsuyoshi Yatagai
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Patent number: 6279383Abstract: A method of, and apparatus for, determining leakage in a valve or the like which is not dependent on bulk modulus of the fluid is described. The test apparatus includes a pressure transducer which measures the change in pressure along a length of pipe (XY) from the valve under test to a second valve for a period of time. The effect of bulk modulus of the test fluid is eliminated by placing a volume of gas between the pressure transducer and the section XY of pipe. Leakage is determined by measuring the change in pressure at the transducer over a period of time after the valve under test is closed.Type: GrantFiled: January 25, 1999Date of Patent: August 28, 2001Assignee: Intertech CorporationInventors: David J. Balke, Jacques E. Hoffmann
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Patent number: 6279384Abstract: A method for detecting a leak in a resilient, semi-hard and hard package includes a test gas supplied to the package to subject the contents of the package to a first pressure. The package is then maintained for a predetermined time in a chamber having a gas pressure, and the presence of gas is detected in a measuring space in gas flow relationship with the chamber by a detection apparatus. In order for the method to be rapid enough to be suitable for detecting very small holes in packages and for use in production plants without a change in their operating rate, a hydrogen gas having a hydrogen gas concentration from 0.0001-6% by volume is used as the test gas supplied to the package, and the hydrogen gas concentration of the gas within the chamber is maintained below a reference concentration that is lower than the hydrogen gas concentration in the package immediately after the addition of hydrogen gas to the package.Type: GrantFiled: April 21, 1999Date of Patent: August 28, 2001Assignee: Espoon Paineilma OyInventors: Eero Heikkinen, Eero Hurme, Raija Ahvenainen
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Patent number: 6279385Abstract: A method to measure both the isothermal secant and tangent bulk modules and the density of functional fluids. The instrumentation and methodology described in this invention use much smaller volumes of fluids which permits the measurement of these critical properties on experimental fluids which are available in only limited quantities.Type: GrantFiled: May 3, 1999Date of Patent: August 28, 2001Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the Air ForceInventors: Arthur A. Krawetz, Phat A. Phan, Pricha Klinsuttho
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Patent number: 6279386Abstract: A meter for measuring the volume of a flowing fluid includes a viscosensitive unit through which the fluid flows under laminar flow conditions, a first fluidic oscillator in series with the viscosensitive unit, and a second fluidic oscillator shunting at least the viscosensitive unit. The viscosensitive unit and the fluidic oscillators are adapted to determine the viscosity of the fluid so as to apply to the fluid volume measured by the fluidic oscillators a correction dependent on the Reynolds number.Type: GrantFiled: November 30, 1999Date of Patent: August 28, 2001Assignee: Tokheim Services FranceInventors: Jean-Pierre Nitecki, Patrick Siri
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Patent number: 6279387Abstract: An electronic weighing machine for a moisture meter not only measures the amount of moisture in the test sample, but also measures the mass of the test sample itself. In addition, the present invention is related to a heat drying type moisture meter, a filter for the moisture meter and a moisture adsorption unit for the moisture meter. The electronic weighing machine for the moisture meter is used with the moisture meter which is equipped with a heating section for introducing the carrier gas into it and heating the test sample, a moisture adsorption section for adsorbing the vaporized moisture from the carrier gas flowing out of the heating section, and an electronic weighing section for determining the increase in mass of the moisture adsorption section. The electronic weighing section has a test sample weighing section and a section for measuring the mass of the collected vaporized moisture in the weighing arm of the electronic weighing unit.Type: GrantFiled: April 28, 1998Date of Patent: August 28, 2001Assignee: Kett Electric LaboratoryInventor: Fumihide Kikuchi
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Patent number: 6279388Abstract: A method for calibrating an apparatus for calibrating a hardness tester, the method comprising the steps of: setting a plurality of calibration points between a rated force point at which a rated force of a force measuring member is applied and a zero point at which no-load is applied, for measuring outputs (mV/V) from the force measuring member according to test forces(N) applied to the force measuring member; and calculating a relation between the test forces(N) and the outputs(mV/V) as an approximation based on the test forces(N) and the outputs(mV/V) according to the test forces(N) at the calibration points. An apparatus for evaluating a dynamic characteristic of a specimen, which installed in a hardness tester, the apparatus comprising: a force measuring member; a force transmitting portion which is movable up and down; a distance measuring member incorporated in the force transmitting portion to be contacted with the force measuring member from above; and an indenter.Type: GrantFiled: March 26, 1999Date of Patent: August 28, 2001Assignee: Akashi CorporationInventors: Masaharu Tsujii, Fumihiko Koshimizu
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Patent number: 6279389Abstract: Thermal drift and acoustic vibrations in the AFM are reduced using a probe-based detection device that references the topography measurement of the AFM to the sample surface in the proximity of the measurement probe. A differential measurement is made between the reference probe and the measurement probe for high sensitivity roughness quantification and defect detection. Multi-probe arrays may be used for large area defect detection with immunity from thermal and acoustic noise sources.Type: GrantFiled: October 27, 2000Date of Patent: August 28, 2001Assignee: NanoDevices, Inc.Inventors: Dennis M. Adderton, Stephen C. Minne
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Patent number: 6279390Abstract: Malfunction of an engine coolant thermostat is detected from the engine side coolant temperature by the subsequent behavior of the coolant temperature. When an open-malfunction occurs, the coolant temperature becomes considerably different from that normally expected for times at which the thermostat is expected to be closed. When a closure-malfunction occurs, the coolant temperature becomes considerably different from that normally expected for times at which the thermostat is expected to be opened. Alternatively, the malfunction may be detected from the difference between the engine side coolant temperature and the radiator side coolant temperature.Type: GrantFiled: December 11, 1997Date of Patent: August 28, 2001Assignee: Denso CorporationInventors: Tatsuya Oka, Keiji Wakahara, Akira Ichikawa
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Patent number: 6279391Abstract: Systems are provided which retard rotation of a driveline at times associated with an engine firing pulse from an engine driving the driveline to reduce torque peaks. In one system, a control monitors rotation of a drive shaft, to provide an indication of when an engine firing pulse should occur. The control selectively closes a switch to power a coil such that the coil retards rotation of the driveline, and generates electricity for use elsewhere. In a second embodiment, circumferentially spaced magnets are mounted on a driveline and move past a coil at a selected circumferential location. The coil resists the rotation of the shaft, retarding torque peaks. The embodiments thus reduce or eliminate imbalances in rotation of the shaft due to engine firing pulses.Type: GrantFiled: October 26, 1999Date of Patent: August 28, 2001Assignee: Meritor Heavy Vehicle Systems, LLCInventors: Dennis A. Kramer, Ronald N. Brissette, Christopher S. Keeney, Jack R. McKenzie, Brian J. Mueller, Dale Bell
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Patent number: 6279392Abstract: A distributed pressure monitoring system is disclosed for monitoring formation pressure along substantial lengths of a casing in a borehole. The monitoring system has a communications line connected to surface facilities on one end which leads down the casing on the other end. A plurality of pressure sensors are spaced along the casing, each connected in communication with the communications line. A sensor housing encloses each sensor and an open pressure tentacle is attached to the sensor housing in communication with the pressure sensor. Another aspect of the present invention is a method for simultaneously monitoring the formation pressure in multiple zones of a borehole. The formation pressure is substantially separated from overburden pressure and pressure sensors adjacent selected zones of the formation are substantially isolated by filling the borehole with a cement selected to provide less hydraulic diffusivity than that of the formation.Type: GrantFiled: November 16, 1999Date of Patent: August 28, 2001Assignee: Snell Oil CompanyInventors: Gordon Thomas Shahin, Jr., Harold J. Vinegar
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Patent number: 6279393Abstract: A system for measuring wind direction and velocity utilizing a sphere which is capable of making differential orthogonal pressure measurements, using pressure sensors located inside the sphere along apertures forming orthogonal axes of the sphere. The preferred embodiment applies the Bernoulli principle to the sphere which has the apertures disposed along the orthogonal axes, and which measures the wind velocity and direction, whereas an alternative embodiment applies the Reynold's principle by using a sphere having no apertures therein, and resulting in a more robust meteorological measurement device which can also measure other meteorological data which is combined with the wind data to produce forecasting of air and weather patterns in a localized area.Type: GrantFiled: August 24, 1999Date of Patent: August 28, 2001Assignee: Mountain High E&SInventor: Patrick L. McLaughlin
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Patent number: 6279394Abstract: A mass flow sensor for measuring flow of a medium comprises a body, a membrane fixed on the body, a pair of thin film heating elements arranged on the membrane, and a sensing element arranged on the membrane adjacent the pair of heating elements and connected between the pair of heating elements. The heating elements are further arranged in a spaced relationship, transverse to the direction of medium flow such that one heating element is upstream of the other heating element in the medium flow. The sensing element provides an electrical signal for determining the voltage across the total series resistance of the heating elements which is indicative of the medium flow magnitude, and for determining the relative resistance of the upstream heating element compared to the downstream heating element which is indicative of medium flow direction. In another aspect of the invention a system for measuring flow of a medium is disclosed.Type: GrantFiled: December 6, 1999Date of Patent: August 28, 2001Assignee: Delphi Technologies, Inc.Inventors: Mark Henry Svoboda, Gregory Paul Gee
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Patent number: 6279395Abstract: A sensor including a center post extending along the sensing axis of the sensor, a piezoelectric sensing element concentrically engaging the center post, and a preload element preloading the piezoelectric element radially outward to the axis. The center post includes a recess along the axis and the first preload element is in the recess and preloads the piezoelectric element radially outward. The sensor may include a mass concentrically engaging the piezoelectric element. The sensor senses acceleration, force or pressure.Type: GrantFiled: October 15, 1999Date of Patent: August 28, 2001Assignee: Kistler Instrument CorporationInventors: Michael D. Insalaco, Jeffrey M. Schnellinger, Andrew Crawford
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Patent number: 6279396Abstract: An ultrasonic-wave distance measuring apparatus of the separate transmission and reception type reflection system capable of making the measurable distance longer and improving the precision of the measuring, wherein a distance measurement calculation control circuit in an ultrasonic-wave transmitter starts counting a time simultaneously with the start of vibration of an ultrasonic-wave transmission sensor, the ultrasonic-wave emitted from the ultrasonic-wave transmission sensor is reflected at the object to be measured and detected by an ultrasonic-wave reception sensor, a distance measurement sensitivity correction circuit corrects the sensitivity of the signal from the ultrasonic-wave reception sensor based on sensitivity correction data predetermined in accordance with a type of object and a measurement distance, the signal after the sensitivity correction by the distance measurement sensitivity correction circuit is detected in a detection circuit, and the distance measurement calculation control circuitType: GrantFiled: April 9, 1999Date of Patent: August 28, 2001Assignee: Sony CorporationInventors: Toshiyuki Imagawa, Junichi Toyoda, Tatsuo Hakuta
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Patent number: 6279397Abstract: The present invention relates to a method and apparatus for focusing ultrasonic waves that are propagated from a phased array toward a spherically-bounded object so that they arrive at a pre-selected focal point at the same time and in phase and thereby significantly improve, nondestructively, the detectability of possible flaws in and structural characteristics of the object. The disclosed method comprises calculating the location of a plurality of preferred refraction points on a surface of the spherical work piece using an iterative process. Each of the preferred refraction points correspond to one of the elements of the phased array mechanism. The locations of the preferred refraction points depends upon the location of the pre-selected focal point and the locations of the phase elements.Type: GrantFiled: November 17, 1999Date of Patent: August 28, 2001Assignee: Westinghouse Electric Company LLCInventor: Roger Francis Dwyer
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Patent number: 6279398Abstract: A method for realizing a transmit focusing in an ultrasonic imaging system is provided, which is a method for realizing a transmit focusing with respect to all imaging points by synthesizing pulse patterned plane waves having the same imaging point using transmit data and receive data with respect to plane waves of each pulse pattern having a different travelling direction and a linear time delay.Type: GrantFiled: September 7, 1999Date of Patent: August 28, 2001Assignee: Medison Co., Ltd.Inventors: Moo-Ho Bae, Mok-Kun Jeong
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Patent number: 6279399Abstract: An ultrasound imaging device comprising a set of bins, wherein each bin includes a set of transducer elements. Additionally, a set of mode switches or multiplexers are associated with the set of bins, wherein the set of mode switches or multiplexers configure the set of transducer elements in each bin to form either a one-dimensional array providing a two-dimensional scan mode or a two-dimensional array providing a three-dimensional scan mode.Type: GrantFiled: August 3, 1998Date of Patent: August 28, 2001Assignee: Vingmed Sound A/SInventor: Sverre Holm
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Patent number: 6279400Abstract: A technique for measuring and selectively adjusting a clearance between a stationary object and desirably a rotating object includes a non-contact, sensing system having a sensor attachable to the stationary object, a mask having a predetermined sized viewport or aperture that sets or limits the sensing or operation of the sensor, and a controller. The sensor is operable for sensing within a field of view a portion of the rotating object and generating a signal in response thereto. The field of view varies in response to varying the clearance between the sensor and the second object. Desirably, the portion of the second object includes a varying pattern. The controller is operable to determine the clearance between the first object and the second object in response to the signal. In another embodiment, sensing system is operable to adjust the clearance by controller providing an electrical current to a resistive heating element in the thermally expandable portion of a plurality of segmented labyrinth seals.Type: GrantFiled: March 16, 1999Date of Patent: August 28, 2001Assignee: General Electric CompanyInventors: Christopher Donald Johnson, Weiping Wang, Thomas Huei Hwang, Emily Yixie Shu
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Patent number: 6279401Abstract: A pressure transmitter apparatus having a unitary body portion, separate diaphragms and flange elements and disposed within the body, a first and second normally vertical pressure passage. The first and second pressure passageways communicate respectively between first and second pressure openings extending normally horizontally through the body portion, and a transducer mounting element. The mounting element, coupled to the body portion and located above the pressure passageways, mounts a transducer that generates a differential pressure signal. One or a pair of diaphragm elements are configured to form first and second process diaphragms, closing first and second pressure openings. The flange element overlies the diaphragm element and is removably and replaceably secured to the body portion.Type: GrantFiled: February 22, 2000Date of Patent: August 28, 2001Assignee: Foxboro CompanyInventor: Edwin L. Karas
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Patent number: 6279402Abstract: A device for measuring pressure at several locations in a processing chamber under dynamic conditions, i.e. when gas is flowing into and/or out of the chamber. A substrate has a plurality of pressure sensors electrically coupled to a measurement instrument. Conditions are established within a processing chamber to determine the effects of various process parameters, such as gas flow, on local pressures, and the local pressures are measured. The test conditions may simulate a process or may be standard test conditions to evaluate chamber configurations or hardware. The pressure test substrate may be calibrated under static conditions to improve the accuracy of the pressure readings.Type: GrantFiled: May 4, 2000Date of Patent: August 28, 2001Assignee: Applied Materials, Inc.Inventor: Paul Fisher
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Patent number: 6279403Abstract: The differential pressure triggering device has a housing having first and second adjacent inner chambers with respective pressure inlets. A pressure differential responsive diaphragm extends between the inner chambers. An iron disc is positioned inside the first inner chamber and is attached to the diaphragm so as to move along a predetermined displacement course as a result of a deflection of the diaphragm. A trigger unit is mounted outside the housing alongside the first inner chamber. The trigger unit has an actuator and a switch device responsive to a motion of the actuator for producing a triggering action. A magnet is attached to the actuator in magnetic interactive mobile arrangement with the iron disc so that a displacement of the iron disc resulting from a deflection of the diaphragm, causes a corresponding displacement of the magnet, thereby driving the actuator which operates the switch device.Type: GrantFiled: October 22, 1999Date of Patent: August 28, 2001Assignee: Henlex, Inc.Inventor: Michel Gagnon
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Patent number: 6279404Abstract: A device for measuring the deformation of a mechanical test specimen, and including a pressing member (3) for stressing a substantially flat specimen (16) in controlled manner by means of a punch (25); a Michelson interferometer having an optical branch (9d) defined optically by a first face (16b) of the specimen (16), and for generating interference images related to the deformation of the specimen (16); a telecamera (44) for acquiring and digitizing the interference images; and a processor (27) for processing the digitized images and controlling the measuring process fully automatically. The interferometer (9) may alternatively perform white light interferometry measurements, ESPI measurements, or ESPI profilometry measurements, by simply substituting the light source and control software.Type: GrantFiled: April 14, 2000Date of Patent: August 28, 2001Assignee: European Atomic Energy Community (EUROTOM)Inventors: Maurice Whelan, Alfredo C. Lucia
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Patent number: 6279405Abstract: A differential pressure monitoring device utilizing two crystalline frequency sensors exposed to different pressures for generating two signals which are combined by a frequency mixer. Two offset based frequency crystal sensors are each exposed to different pressures and the resulting frequencies are mixed to measure the pressure differential between the two crystals. When the crystals are exposed to a common pressure, the crystals have an offset based frequency response that is consistent with pressure. When the two crystals are exposed to pressures, the offset frequencies are mixed together to create a differential frequency that is precisely related to the differential in the pressures placed on the two different crystal sensors.Type: GrantFiled: June 7, 1999Date of Patent: August 28, 2001Inventors: Kenneth K. Clark, Charles D. Totty
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Patent number: 6279406Abstract: Passive solid-state magnetic sensors are based on the combination of magnetorestrictive materials and piezoelectric materials. Sensors have applications in rotor speed detection, magnetic field detection, read heads, and MRAM, for example.Type: GrantFiled: November 17, 1999Date of Patent: August 28, 2001Inventors: Yi-Qun Li, Robert C. O'Handley, Gerald F. Dionne, Chun Zhang
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Patent number: 6279407Abstract: A combined mechanical linkage and force-measuring assembly includes a central capacitive force sensor, in which force applied to the sensor causes the flexing of a diaphragm toward and away from a substrate, and a change in the capacitance between two conductive surfaces on the diaphragm and the substrate is sensed and processed to indicate the direction and magnitude of the force applied to the linkage. The linkage may have two parts coupled together by a flange which flexes under applied forces, to change the spacing of the conductive surfaces.Type: GrantFiled: April 25, 2000Date of Patent: August 28, 2001Assignee: Kavlico CorporationInventors: Kyong M. Park, Marcos A. Nassar
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Patent number: 6279408Abstract: A sample bag for collecting a mixture of gasses for analysis is made of a modified polymer consisting essentially of tetrafluoroethylene (TFE) and at most about 2.0 percent perfluoropropylvinylether (PPVE).Type: GrantFiled: September 28, 2000Date of Patent: August 28, 2001Assignee: Horiba Instruments, Inc.Inventor: Gary W. Lewis
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Patent number: 6279409Abstract: A wiper bearing has a bearing shell and a shaft, which is received by the bearing shell and is connected at one point to a drive mechanism and has a receptacle for wiper arm. The bearing shell concentrically grips a region of the shaft and forms a first axis, which forms an angle with a second axis that extents through a region having a receptacle of the shaft.Type: GrantFiled: September 3, 1999Date of Patent: August 28, 2001Assignee: Robert Bosch GmbHInventor: Richard Knauf
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Patent number: 6279410Abstract: The torque variator device of the invention is a mechanism to be interleaved between a transmission arbor and a conducted arbor, and it includes two circular plates that at the external edges they have double serrated rings. On one hand, said rings include the serration of a peripheric ratchet, and, on the other hand they engage with corresponding conical pinions at the end of the threaded bars, located radially and which are gyratory within a threaded hole in radially displaceable coupling elements of said circular plates. The invention also includes a device for the detection of the radial location of said coupling elements.Type: GrantFiled: February 10, 2000Date of Patent: August 28, 2001Inventors: Cesar Raul López Orbea, Elsa Dora Luján Orbea De López
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Patent number: 6279411Abstract: A linear drive mechanism comprising a moveably guided output member (12). The output member (12) is guided on a supporting device (15) in a supporting area (13) of the housing (1). A position determining device (54) protrudes laterally from the output member (12). The position determining device moves along a position determining area (55) during the axial movement of the output member (12). The support device (15) extends only over part of the perimeter of the output member (12), wherein the output member (12) is exposed along a section of the perimeter so that an open space (67) is provided, thereby forming part of a position determining area (55) which can be traversed by the position determining element (54). This makes it possible to combine effective guidance with a compact linear drive design.Type: GrantFiled: May 19, 1999Date of Patent: August 28, 2001Assignee: Festo AG & Co.Inventors: Kurt Stoll, Thomas Feyrer
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Patent number: 6279412Abstract: A system for shielding a robot arm against being splashed with fluids comprises a protective shell-like cover of thin-walled plastic material impervious to fluids which is removably attached to the robot arm. The protective cover has a contoured shape generally conforming to the configuration of the robot arm and includes an upper member overlying the upwardly facing surfaces of the robot arm and an integral continuous side member proximally overlying the sidewall of the robot arm and extending to a lower rim generally coplanar with the downwardly facing surfaces of the robot arm. The upper member of the protective cover generally overlies the upwardly facing surface of the robot arm while the peripherally extending sidewall generally overlies the outwardly facing surface of the peripherally extending sidewall.Type: GrantFiled: May 19, 1999Date of Patent: August 28, 2001Assignee: Brooks Automation, Inc.Inventors: David R. Beaulieu, Robert T. Caveney, Tuan Ha
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Patent number: 6279413Abstract: A first arm (3) of a articulated robot has a double arm structure composed of a first arm piece (3a) and a second arm piece (3b). The first arm piece (3a) transmits a drive force, and a housing (4a) of a second arm (4) is rotatably mounted to the first arm piece (3a) at the end thereof. The second arm piece (3b) houses cables and pipes or the like, and a cover (4b) of the housing (4a) is rotatably mounted to the second arm piece at the end thereof. The cover (4b) is fixed to the housing (4a) through a fixing tool (6). The housing (4a) is permitted to be opened by separating the housing (4a) and the cover (4b) from each other by causing the second arm piece (3b) to rotate relatively to the first arm piece (3a) after the removal of the fixing tool (6).Type: GrantFiled: November 4, 1999Date of Patent: August 28, 2001Assignee: Fanuc Ltd.Inventors: Akihiro Terada, Toshinari Tamura, Hisashi Ogawa, Takahiro Hase
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Patent number: 6279414Abstract: A manual type tilting apparatus of a vehicle is provided to improve convenience of a driver who can take an action to release the intermeshed state of a movable latch member of an upper steering column and a fixed latch member of a lower steering column and conveniently adjust the slope of the steering axis for a tilting operation while the driver's both hands hold the steering handle at the same time, the apparatus having the upper steering column and the lower steering column coupled at the upper steering column by a pivot point for rotation, a movable latch member with a long hole mounted to rotate at the upper steering column, and a fixed latch member formed at the lower steering column to selectively intermesh with the movable latch member, wherein the movable latch member rotates so as to be detached from the fixed latch member via movable latch member manipulating means eccentrically inserted into the long hole by repeating protrusion and insertion with one touch system, thereby releasing the inteType: GrantFiled: March 22, 2000Date of Patent: August 28, 2001Assignee: Hyundai Motor CompanyInventor: Sung-Jin Moon
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Patent number: 6279415Abstract: An apparatus 10 for providing tension in a cable 12. Apparatus 10 includes a generally cylindrical housing 14, movable member 16 which is slidably disposed within housing 14 and a member 18 which is slidably disposed within member 16 and housing 14. Assembly 10 further includes a conventional spring or compression member 20 which is conventionally and operatively coupled to members 16 and 18, and is effective to impart opposing forces upon member 16 and member 18, thereby providing tension within cable 12.Type: GrantFiled: October 27, 1999Date of Patent: August 28, 2001Assignee: Visteon Global Tech., Inc.Inventors: Kenneth Edward Chance, Christopher Patrick Nolan, Celine Anne-Alice Verrier
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Patent number: 6279416Abstract: A control apparatus associated with a hydraulic lock that contains a piston rod and an operating pin slidably contained within piston rod. A conduit contains a proximal end connected to a push button unit and a distal end connected to a lever arm assembly. The lever arm assembly contains a platform secured to the terminal end of the piston rod and a lever arm rotatably mounted over the operating pin. A cable extends through the conduit between a rocker arm in the push button unit and the lever arm so that when the button is depressed, the operating pin is moved from an inoperative position to an operative position. A locking plate is pivotally mounted upon the distal end of the conduit and arranged to move over the top surface of the platform into locking engagement with the piston rod. A cutout is formed in the plate which engages a groove formed in the terminal end of the piston rod to lock the lever arm assembly to the rod with the lever arm in position to engage the operating shaft.Type: GrantFiled: December 14, 1999Date of Patent: August 28, 2001Assignee: Enidine, Inc.Inventors: Brian Charles Bucholtz, Terrance E. Daul, John M. Janak
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Patent number: 6279417Abstract: A brake pedal structure for a vehicle disclosed herein includes a pedal bracket provided on a dash panel of the vehicle, a pedal shaft provided on the pedal bracket, a pedal arm pivotally supported by the pedal shaft in a freely rotatable manner around the pedal shaft as a rotational axis, and a push rod connected to the pedal arm for operating a brake system of the vehicle in response to rotation of the pedal arm. The push rod has a portion so as to interrupt the transmission of a load input at the time of collision of said vehicle.Type: GrantFiled: January 13, 1999Date of Patent: August 28, 2001Assignees: Nissan Motor Co., Ltd., Yorozu CorporationInventors: Hiroyuki Mizuma, Sadahiro Kawahara, Tohru Kobayashi, Sunao Gouhara
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Patent number: 6279418Abstract: A clutch depressing tool for holding a clutch pedal in an engaged position while work is performed on the clutch system. The clutch depressing tool includes a bar extending between the steering wheel and the clutch pedal. The bar has a first end and a second end. A clutch pedal engaging bracket is fixedly mounted to the first end of the bar. The clutch pedal engaging bracket has a hook portion thereon, which opens away from the bar. The hook portion is adapted to rest over an upper edge of the clutch pedal. A steering wheel engaging bracket for resting the second end of the bar on the steering wheel has a generally J-shaped configuration. The steering wheel engaging bracket has a long portion and a hook portion. The long portion has a first bore therein. The first bore has a shape adapted to slidably receive a portion of the bar. A plurality of notches for holding the steering wheel bracket is in the bar.Type: GrantFiled: December 3, 1999Date of Patent: August 28, 2001Inventor: Johnny L. Olive, Jr.
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Patent number: 6279419Abstract: A method of manufacturing a motor car steering wheel with an external shell made of carbon fibers, which comprises preparing a pile of sheet materials, hot molding thereof for obtaining respective half-shells with a shape corresponding to that of respective halves of the steering wheel being manufactured, mechanical flattening of the front surfaces of the two half-shells, mounting of the two half-shells above and under a steering wheel body formed by a metallic core covered by resin. The steering wheel body has lateral profiles which act as fixing supports for the two half-shells.Type: GrantFiled: January 12, 2000Date of Patent: August 28, 2001Assignee: Breed Automotive Technology, Inc.Inventors: Giuseppe Testa, Adolfo Ridolfi, Paolo Vian
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Patent number: 6279420Abstract: A balance weight has first and second margins at right angles to one another with the second margin larger than the first margin. A balance weight groove in a rotor has outer and inner wall portions, with the outer wall portions spaced a distance less than the spacing between the inner wall portions. The balance weight has a central threaded opening receiving a screw and a driving slot in the upper face of the weight. An insertion tool is threaded to the balance weight to insert the balance weight through a turbomachinery access opening into the groove. The tool is rotated to locate the second margins below the outer wall portions of the groove. By inserting a driving tool through the insertion tool, the screw is rotated to lock the balance weight to the rotor and in the groove. Upon removal of the insertion and driving tools, a staking tool is inserted through turbine access opening to stake the balance weight and rotor and the screw and balance weight.Type: GrantFiled: August 18, 1999Date of Patent: August 28, 2001Assignee: General Electric Co.Inventors: Victor John Knorowski, David Robert Skinner, Alexander Morson
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Patent number: 6279421Abstract: A connecting rod assembly for rocking piston compressors, diaphragm compressors and vacuum pumps is provided where the overall height of the connecting rod assembly is dependent only upon the overall height of the connecting rod structure and is not dependent upon the thickness of the diaphragm or the thickness of the retainer plate. The connecting rod includes a disk portion for supporting an annular diaphragm in the case of a diaphragm pump or a cup in the case of a rocking piston compressor or a vacuum pump. The connecting rod also includes a distal end section that extends upward through the annular diaphragm and through an annular retainer plate. The diaphragm or cup is sandwiched between the annular retainer plate and the disk portion of the connecting rod. The overall height of the assembly is determined by the distance between the end face of the disk portion of the connecting rod and the crank end of the connecting rod.Type: GrantFiled: August 26, 1999Date of Patent: August 28, 2001Assignee: Gast Manufacturing, Inc.Inventors: Edward Faulkner, George Morgan
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Patent number: 6279422Abstract: An endplay adjustment mechanism for a co-linear shaft assembly. More specifically, the co-linear shaft assembly includes an input shaft and a mainshaft aligned along a common longitudinal axis. A threaded adjuster plug and a thrust bearing are interdisposed between the input shaft and the mainshaft to permit relative longitudinal positioning therebetween. Accordingly, after the shaft assembly has been assembled into a power transmission device, the threaded adjuster plug is tightened to effectively increase the length of the co-linear shaft assembly, thereby eliminating any excess endplay of the shafts relative to the housing of the power transmission apparatus.Type: GrantFiled: November 10, 1998Date of Patent: August 28, 2001Assignee: New Venture Gear, Inc.Inventor: Scott R. Moll
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Patent number: 6279423Abstract: A transmission case comprises first, second and third casings 1, 2 and 3, which are connected side by side in this order from an engine. An input shaft 11 and a countershaft 12 with speed change gear trains and clutches are disposed in a first room 8 which is defined by the first and second casings, and the both ends of these shafts 11 and 12 are supported rotatably in partition walls 4 and 5 which are provided with the first and second casings, respectively. In this condition, the side of the countershaft 12 which is located away from the engine extends into a second room 9 defined by the second and third casings, in which room, an output shaft 13 is disposed. In addition, a constant mesh type gear train is disposed in the second room 9 for power transmission between the countershaft 12 and the output shaft 13.Type: GrantFiled: February 22, 2000Date of Patent: August 28, 2001Assignee: Honda Giken Kogyo Kabushiki KaishaInventors: Kyoji Kitajima, Hideo Udou, Masakazu Mitani
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Patent number: 6279424Abstract: A tool head (46) in which a tool spindle (52), adapted to be equipped with a disc-shaped tool (100), is supported so as to be driven in rotation about a spindle axis (C), is associated with a workpiece support (82) on which a workpiece (10) can be arranged such that the tooth tip (18) of a cutting tooth (12) to be machined will lie on a stationary reference axis (A). The tool head (46) is movably supported by means of a reciprocating slide (34) which is movable back and forth along a reciprocating slide guide means (32) transversely of the reference axis (A), by means of a feed slide (24) adapted to be advanced along a feed slide guide means (22) transversely of the reciprocating slide guide means (32), and by means of a a pivot bearing means (42) defining a pivot axis (B) parallel to the reciprocating slide guide means (32).Type: GrantFiled: March 29, 2000Date of Patent: August 28, 2001Assignee: Vollmer Werke Maschinenfabrik GmbHInventors: Norbert Bailer, Peter Lenard, Fritz Riehlein
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Patent number: 6279425Abstract: A method of producing a tool or die from a model that includes producing a rigid mold from the model, forming a die shell of the model from a sheet of material in close conforming relationship over the rigid mold, and applying a reinforcing substrate to the die shell on a side of the die shell opposite that of the rigid mold. The applying step is performed while the die shell is still in close conforming relationship with the rigid mold, thereby forming the tool or die from the reinforcing substrate and die shell.Type: GrantFiled: November 12, 1999Date of Patent: August 28, 2001Inventor: Edmond Burton Cicotte
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Patent number: 6279426Abstract: An open throat power tong 10 for making up and/or breaking apart an oilfield tubular connection includes an open throat in the tong body 15. Motors 18, 20 rotate a partial ring member 12 and a pair of heads 16 with respect to the tong body. A door 40, 140 may be opened to expose the open throat of the power tong, and has a planar latch surface formed from arcuate groove 58 for receiving an arcuate boss 90. The door latch mechanism reduces the effort required to safely latch the door in the closed position before operating the tong, and provides a highly reliable mechanism to minimize spreading of the tong body under a relatively high torque.Type: GrantFiled: April 28, 2000Date of Patent: August 28, 2001Assignee: Eckel Manufacturing Company, Inc.Inventor: Billy W. Neves
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Patent number: 6279427Abstract: A uniquely designed torque wrench having a torque body, the torque body attached to a drive head, with the head having an opening through its center, for fitting over a nut, such as a multi-sided jam nut positioned on a compresor shaft. The drive head further provides a portion which can be disengaged and opened, to define a gate which can allow the jam nut to be positioned within the opening, and the gate portion resecured, to define the head secured around the jam nut. There is further provided a hydraulic cylinder secured between the wrench body and the head so that under hydraulic pressure, the head is rotated which in turn imparts sufficient rotation to the jam nut under sufficient pressure to torque up the nut to the desired foot pounds required. Another embodiment includes an adaptor insertable into the opening of the torque wrench for accommodating a certain jam nut configuration, so that the tool can be used on the varied types of jam nut designs.Type: GrantFiled: November 19, 1999Date of Patent: August 28, 2001Assignee: Francis Torq/Lite, Inc.Inventor: Dale Francis
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Patent number: 6279428Abstract: A ratchet wrench including a main body, a ratchet, a switching unit and two stopper members. The stopper members are slidable within the recesses of the main body to abut against the ratchet so that the ratchet can be only one-way rotated. The ratchet wrench is applicable to the ratchet with teeth projecting from outer side thereof. The stopper members are supported by the main body and the guide block and firmly located. Therefore, the ratchet wrench is able to bear greater working torque and achieve better using effect.Type: GrantFiled: October 28, 1999Date of Patent: August 28, 2001Inventor: Chin-Tan Huang
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Patent number: 6279429Abstract: The present invention is directed to an adjustable wrench that permits quick and effortless speed slip adjustment and locked positioning.Type: GrantFiled: July 27, 1999Date of Patent: August 28, 2001Inventor: Michael A. Boyer
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Patent number: 6279430Abstract: A F-type socket wrench including a handle, a coupling block mounted in an opening of the handle, a steel ball stopped between a transverse back groove of the coupling block and a spring inside the handle, a tightening up screw threaded into an axial screw hole at the front end of the handle and having a rounded front end stopped against a transverse front groove of the coupling block, the coupling block having a square coupling rod for turning a wrench socket, the square coupling rod having a diagonal line between its two angles disposed in parallel to the longitudinal center line of the handle.Type: GrantFiled: April 28, 2000Date of Patent: August 28, 2001Inventor: Chih-Ching Hsieh