Patents Issued in January 22, 2004
  • Publication number: 20040011082
    Abstract: There is provided an apparatus and method for fabricating a holey optical fiber. An optical fiber with air holes of a predetermined size and shape along the length of the optical fiber is drawn by supplying nitrogen gas into air holes through one end of a holey optical fiber preform while heating the other end of the preform.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 15, 2003
    Publication date: January 22, 2004
    Inventors: Un-Chul Paek, Duk-Young Kim, Young-Min Paik
  • Publication number: 20040011083
    Abstract: Disclosed is a system for drawing an optical fiber for controlling polarization mode dispersion. A furnace is provided for uniformly heating an optical fiber preform in the drawing system mounted to an optical fiber draw tower. The furnace comprises: (a) a main body; (b) a sub-body placed coaxially with the main body and having a diameter smaller than that of the main body; and (c) an upper gas feeding section over the main body, wherein the upper gas feeding section includes a first hollow rotary body having at least one slit in the inner surface thereof along the longitudinal direction of an optical fiber and at least one opening extended in the direction of the center, whereby a gas artificially/periodically creates non-contact polarization to the optical fiber by the first hollow rotary body. Effective non-contact control can be carried out about polarization mode dispersion of the optical fiber.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 15, 2003
    Publication date: January 22, 2004
    Inventors: Sung-Koog Oh, Jin-Han Kim
  • Publication number: 20040011084
    Abstract: Disclosed is a cooling apparatus used in a high-speed cooling of an optical fiber. The cooling apparatus includes: a cooling body extending along the longitudinal direction of the drawn optical fiber, wherein the cooling body consists of a left cooling body part and a right cooling body part, and wherein the cooling body is provided with a sealing cap so that a cooling gas is supplied into the cooling body through the sealing cap; and, at least one turbulence generator mounted within the cooling body to surround the drawn optical fiber, wherein the turbulence generator activates the molecular flow of the cooling gas supplied into the cooling body.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 8, 2003
    Publication date: January 22, 2004
    Inventors: Yeong-Seop Lee, Ki-Tae Jung, Hyun-Ju Lee, Tae-Sang Park
  • Publication number: 20040011085
    Abstract: The invention relates to tubular knitwear item provided with suitable openings (H) or holes automatically obtained for shoulder straps, neck portions, belts, strings, stripes, knots, loops and the like, i.e. for various applications and purposes, such as anatomic support, and for aesthetic and functional connections also with other manufactured items. The invention co-ordinates the suitable needle selection according to the jacquard design and to the work cycle of the knitting machine and enable, for definite fabric areas and needles (A), the temporary stop of the knitting process and the subsequent stitch discharge, followed by the production of new fabric stitches, also with needle discard and floating yarns (FF) so as to obtain transparent effects and the production of fringes.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 10, 2003
    Publication date: January 22, 2004
    Inventor: Franco Sciacca
  • Publication number: 20040011086
    Abstract: A latch needle (1) has a latch spring (19), which assumes the width of the latch slit (5) in the vicinity of the latch seating (18). However, the latch spring (19) is embodied to be narrower on both sides of this section (25). By means of this, premature wear of the latch or spring in the area of the latch seating device (18) is counteracted on the one hand as is, on the other, the obstruction of the latch slit (5) by dust or dirt. The narrower sections (26, 27) of the latch spring (19) define a passage together with the inner face (8, 9) of the slit walls (6, 7), through which foreign bodies, such as fiber remnants, dust or the like can be conveyed from the upper needle side (11) in the direction toward the needle back (12). In contrast to conventional latch needles, needles (1) of this type of construction show reduced wear, a reduced susceptibility to becoming soiled, and therefore increased dependability.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 1, 2003
    Publication date: January 22, 2004
    Applicant: Groz-Beckert KG
    Inventor: Zhiyong Wang
  • Publication number: 20040011087
    Abstract: The invention relates to a fibrous structure comprising at least one non composite para-aramid strand and at least one elastic nylon-based strand which are maintained parallel to each other, the non composite para-aramid strand being present in the structure in an amount ranging from about 20% to 99.9% by weight, relative to the weight of the structure. The invention also relates to a process to manufacture such structure and to high cut and abrasion resistant protective clothing made of this structure like gloves, aprons and sleeves.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 18, 2002
    Publication date: January 22, 2004
    Inventors: Serge Rebouillat, Benoit Steffenino, Andre Miret Casas
  • Publication number: 20040011088
    Abstract: The invention relates to a fibrous structure comprising at least one non composite p-aramid strand and at least one nylon strand maintained in a parallel relationship to each other, the non composite para-aramid strand being present in the material in an amount ranging from about 20% to 99.9% by weight, relative to the weight of the structure. The invention also relates to a process to manufacture such structure and to high cut and abrasion resistant protective clothing made of this structure like gloves, aprons and sleeves.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 18, 2002
    Publication date: January 22, 2004
    Inventors: Serge Rebouillat, Antonio Manuel Jiminez Maroto, Joan Llivina Carbonell, Veronique Bernat
  • Publication number: 20040011089
    Abstract: The present invention refers to a washing aid dispenser for a washing machine. The dispenser (2) comprises at least a compartment (3) adapted to contain washing aid products, such as a rinse aid or fabric softener, provided with a first siphon (4) having pre-determined head and diameter and adapted to transfer said washing aid substances into the washing tub of the machine when the water in the compartment (3) reaches up to a priming level corresponding to said pre-determined head.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 17, 2003
    Publication date: January 22, 2004
    Applicant: Electrolux Home Products Corporation N.V.
    Inventors: Pietro Rizzeto, Arturo Gamba
  • Publication number: 20040011090
    Abstract: A backflow prevention device for use with a conventional washing machine system that is uniquely designed to automatically disrupt the power to the washing machine should the drain line leading from the washing machine become clogged. The backflow prevention device includes an internally mounted micro switch that is operably interconnected with a portable ground fault circuit interrupter plug that is connected to a duplex outlet. The washing machine is connected to the ground fault circuit interrupter plug so that, upon being actuated, the micro switch will cause a low voltage default to be sent to the ground fault circuit interrupter which triggers it in a manner to automatically cause an interruption of power to the washing machine.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 22, 2002
    Publication date: January 22, 2004
    Inventors: Robert Crowell, John Morally
  • Publication number: 20040011091
    Abstract: A security lock device for portable sporting articles such as skis, snowboards and the like has opposed jaws (10, 11) for clamping onto an edge of the article. One of the jaws has barbs (28) projecting from a face of the jaw for penetrating slightly into the article and preventing removal therefrom when clamped in position. A lever arm (15) mounted for pivotal movement on a first jaw (10) supports a bolt (13) which is pivotally connected to the lever arm (15) and extends through a bore in a second jaw (11). A nut (12) on said bolt retains the second jaw (11) on the bolt (13) in an adjustable manner whereby the spacing between the jaws (10, 11) can be varied. Actuation of the lever (15) from an open to a closed position draws the jaws (10, 11) towards each other to clamp onto the article and a security locking mechanism (38) locks the lever arm (15) in a closed position within a cavity of the first jaw (10).
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 23, 2003
    Publication date: January 22, 2004
    Inventor: Marcus John Zeuschner
  • Publication number: 20040011092
    Abstract: A high-security shackleless lock is provided. The lock includes a shackle pin adapted to move between a closed position extending across a lock body recess to engage a staple; and an open, staple-free position. A lock bar mounted entirely within the lock body can be move between a closed shackle pin engaging position to retain the shackle pin in its staple-engaging position, and an open shackle pin-free position wherein the shackle pin does not extend across the lock body and cannot engage a staple. A shackle pin spring urges the shackle into its open position, and a lock bar spring urges the lock bar into its closed position. The shackle pin has a distal end formed with a head element of extended dimensions. The lock body defines a recess adapted to closely confront the shackle pin head when the shackle pin is located in its closed position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 19, 2002
    Publication date: January 22, 2004
    Inventors: Christopher Haczynski, Troy A. Peterson
  • Publication number: 20040011093
    Abstract: A curved shackle gunlock for rendering a gun inoperative from accidental or unauthorized use and for deterring theft. The unique shape of the shackle is critical and will fit most firearms, specifically an automatic rifle. The thickness of the shackle provides maximum protection against destruction and violation. The gunlock can be inserted in the opening of a handgun through the breach and magazine well, through the revolver frame, through the loading port of a shotgun, or through the magazine well of a specialty gun.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 8, 2002
    Publication date: January 22, 2004
    Inventor: Steven A. Fantl
  • Publication number: 20040011094
    Abstract: A remote-controlled door lock includes a housing installed inside with a battery base, a circuit board and an electromagnetic valve. The electromagnetic valve is fitted with a lateral valve rod controlled by the circuit board to extend out of the through hole in a sidewall of the housing and engage in the insert hole in a sidewall of the bolt base of a doorjamb. A remote controller is operated to control the valve rod of electromagnetic valve to move outward and extend out of the through hole of the housing and engage in the insert hole of the bolt base to lock the door at a limited position. Thus, the door lock is impossible to be unlocked only by a key before the valve rod of the electromagnetic valve is released by the remote controller to disengage from the insert hole of the bolt base, having best effect of anti-theft.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 22, 2002
    Publication date: January 22, 2004
    Inventor: Hui-Hua Hsieh
  • Publication number: 20040011095
    Abstract: There is provided a handle assembly of thin type which permits through a computerized personal management system a plurality of persons to have easily access to instruments in a box with the handle assembly. Said handle assembly does not get out of order or break down owing to a collision or contact with other physical solid body.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 28, 2002
    Publication date: January 22, 2004
    Applicant: Takigen Manufacturing Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Kazuyuki Gotou, Shirou Segawa
  • Publication number: 20040011096
    Abstract: A method of securing an ATV or any device that allows for connection with the invention. The invention, known as Sureloc, has a five axis articulating head design which allows for connection with a device in any direction. The Auger section of Sureloc allows for securing a device into the ground without assistance from other objects. This allows Sureloc to be used as a portable security device. The shaft of Sureloc has a vertical movement of approximately 6″ as an adjustment to reach various heights of different devices. The shad guide rotates 180 degrees giving Sureloc a 2′ attachment range in a 360 degree area.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 17, 2002
    Publication date: January 22, 2004
    Inventors: Brian Paul Quinn, Jackie Lee Moore, Mitchel E. Mann
  • Publication number: 20040011097
    Abstract: A device for storing and securing tools, parts, instrumentation, equipment and the like having locking hardware manipulated about a keyed lock, an improved remote entry system simply applied to current and out of production storage devices offering the convenience of keyless entry and the redundancy of standard keylock operation. The entry system has a lock assembly (349A) to which the original equipment manufacturer's rotating hardware (430X) is attached. The lock (349A) is coupled to an electromechanical actuator assembly (149) by a shifter assembly (249B) and together supported within a storage device (270X) by a pylon assembly (189A). Electromechanical operation and control is accomplished by a receiver (380V) powered by a battery (390V) and activated by a transmitter (382V). Manual locking and unlocking is effected by the use of a key (250V) replicating the operation prior to incorporation of this system.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 18, 2002
    Publication date: January 22, 2004
    Inventor: Edward S. Jeffers
  • Publication number: 20040011098
    Abstract: A compound locking device is provided. The compound locking device includes a key locking mechanism comprising a outer cylinder and a lock head sleeved by the outer cylinder;a positioning plate capable of restraining the outer cylinder from rotating;a combination locking mechanism comprising the positioning plate, wherein the positioning plate is adjusted to a predetermined position by means of inputting a set of correct numbers, thereby rendering the outer cylinder rotatable; and reset member protruding from near a key hole of the key locking mechanism, wherein the reset member can change the code of the combination locking mechanism.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 17, 2002
    Publication date: January 22, 2004
    Inventor: Ping-Jan Yang
  • Publication number: 20040011099
    Abstract: A removable core lock and key device comprises a cylinder housing (3), a cylinder core (10) accommodated in said cylinder housing, and an essentially cylindrical plug (20) rotatably arranged in the core. A blocking pin (28) is provided in the core and is movable between an extended position, wherein it engages a recess in the cylinder housing, and a retracted position. An actuator element (26a, 26c) is controlled by at least one control pin tumbler. With a control key in the lock, the control pin tumbler displaces the actuator element so that it moves the blocking pin with the rotation of said plug. With a user key in said key slot, said pin tumbler is disengaged from the actuator element and the plug is free to rotate. In other positions the control pin tumbler blocks rotation of the plug and actuator element. A simple yet reliable and secure removable core arrangement is provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 18, 2002
    Publication date: January 22, 2004
    Applicant: ASSA AB
    Inventor: Daniel Andersson
  • Publication number: 20040011100
    Abstract: A Child Proof Key for Barrel-housed Gun Lock is disclosed. Also disclosed object of the present invention to provide a Child Proof Key for Barrel-housed Gun Lock. The lock includes a handle defined by a slot formed along its length for acceptance of the shaft. The shaft is hinged at one end which permits the shaft to be stowed within the shaft slot. The shaft terminates in a key socket at its head for engagement with the keyed head of a bore-housed gun lock. The key further includes a bushing along the length of the shaft for centering the key socket within the barrel of the weapon, and further to identify the size by indicia inscribable thereon (or other desirable indicia). Very importantly, the shaft slot formed in the handle is defined by a shoulder and a shaft bore, with the gap between the two shoulders being slightly smaller than the diameter of the shaft such that the shaft snaps into the slot when stowed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 17, 2002
    Publication date: January 22, 2004
    Inventors: Larry Ross, Cruz Luna
  • Publication number: 20040011101
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a new agricultural composition and a method for protecting, enhancing the resistance of plants to infections by plant pathogens and increasing abiotic stress tolerance against cold, salinity and drought. The composition comprises a formulated mixture of resistance elicitors stimulating a number of signal transduction pathways within the plant. The formulated mixture is acting to stimulate a number of such signal transduction pathways thereby maximising the plants' potential resistance-related response to infection. The composition gives a stronger, more sustainable, and broader range of pathogen control than an elicitor preparation based upon a single active ingredient. The active ingredients consist of chitosan (C), &ohgr;-fatty acids (O), phosphate (P) and seaweed-derived extracts (S) (COPS). The composition can be applied to the plants by spraying, via fertigation systems or by coating seeds and can be applied to the leaves of the plants or to the roots.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 30, 2003
    Publication date: January 22, 2004
    Inventors: Adrian C Newton, Gray D Lyon, Keith Holmes, Wendy Smith, Simon Derek Hankins, Knut Kristian Osnes
  • Publication number: 20040011102
    Abstract: A pellet for use in conditioning soil made of a lignocellulose fiber matrix having up to 20% by weight of a soil conditioning material incorporated therein. The soil conditioning material comprises one or more synthetic soil conditioning polymers and, optionally, additional soil enhancing additives such as fertilizers, gypsum, and calcium salts. The preferred lignocellulose materials are pulp fibers with an alpha-cellulose purity of greater than about 75% by weight, with preferred lignin content of no higher than 10%. The soil conditioning polymers are preferably polyacrylamides (PAMs) or modified PAMs, but may be a combination of other soil conditioning polymers. The pellet is produced by dispersing the polymers into a bath of lignocellulose fibers. The dispersion is then formed into pellets with a pelletizing machine such that the polymer and other soil conditioning material is interspersed within the matrix formed by the pelletized lignocellulose.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 17, 2002
    Publication date: January 22, 2004
    Inventor: Karl D. Sears
  • Publication number: 20040011103
    Abstract: This invention has an object of diminishing an inside diameter while securing the area of the terminal edge larger, at the extremity of a cylindrical body made of a metal used for a vibration isolating bushing and the like. Accordingly, the present invention provides a manufacturing method of vibration isolating bushing 10 serving to stick the rubber elastomer 16 to the outer circumference of an inner cylinder 12 made of a metal by means of vulcanization forming, by diminishing in diameter the extremity 18 by cold plastic working while turning a diameter diminishing jig 40 and pressing against the circumferential surface of the axial extremity 18 of the inner cylinder 12, and further by enlarging and forming the terminal edge 19 by cold plastic working while turning an upsetting jig 50 and pressing against the terminal edge 19 at the extremity 18 being diminished in diameter.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 28, 2003
    Publication date: January 22, 2004
    Inventors: Hiroaki Takahashi, Tadayuki Suzuki
  • Publication number: 20040011104
    Abstract: A method for producing a bung for a metal cask that does not require a conventional collar and seal, and that simplifies the operations for forming the bung. The method disclosed in the present application includes the following steps. First, a prestamping operation creates a preforming dome in the wall of the cask such that a cuvett is formed. Second, an approximately cylindrical shaft is formed by stamping and thus puncturing the wall of the cask at the location of the bung. Third, the protruding edge of the shaft is folded down the to form an external rolled edge. Fourth, encircling the shaft with a rigid ring constituted by at least two annular sections such that the metal does not tear during the formation of the threads. Finally, the method of the present invention includes the step of implementing a roller threading head to form internal threads in the shaft.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 19, 2002
    Publication date: January 22, 2004
    Inventors: Jean-Claude Carayon, Lucien Brun
  • Publication number: 20040011105
    Abstract: The present invention, the objective of which is to provide a forming apparatus for forming part of or the entire circumference of a cylindrical work piece into circular or deformed circular shape, such as ellipse, etc., comprises a spindle mechanism having a processing tool R mounted at the tip of the spindle, and a holding mechanism for holding the cylindrical work piece W disposed in a way to face the spindle mechanism, and is provided with an axial shifting means for shifting the spindle mechanism and the holding mechanism relatively in the axial direction of the spindle, a shifting motion means for enabling the holding mechanism to make prescribed shifting motion, and a control mechanism for driving the axial shifting means and shifting motion means in linkage with each other.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 18, 2002
    Publication date: January 22, 2004
    Inventors: Yoshinobu Nakamura, Hiroaki Mizumoto
  • Publication number: 20040011106
    Abstract: A pipe bending processing apparatus includes a drawing and bending section for pressingly contacting a drawing and bending mold, a clamp mold with one end of a pipe P and performing drawing and bending processing, compression bending section for pressingly contacting a chuck with the other end of the pipe and performing compression bending processing, side bending section for pressingly contacting a wiper, and a side bending mold with the side of the pipe and performing side bending processing. The side bending mold provides a stopper 8 which advances and retracts from a pipe pressingly contact surface and engages with the other end of the pipe.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 14, 2003
    Publication date: January 22, 2004
    Applicant: CALSONIC KANSEI CORPORATION
    Inventor: Yasuji Hatano
  • Publication number: 20040011107
    Abstract: The invention relates to a device for embossing and/or satin-finishing a flat material, comprising at least two embossing rolls that are linked with a drive and that can be driven individually or jointly. The rolls can be elastically pressed against each other and the pyramidal teeth of the rolls have a flattened tip. In order to produce an embossed structure with variable optical effects the teeth (T2) of at least one of the rolls are adapted to provide the flat material, especially the metallized packaging foil, with a sign (L) whose aspect varies depending on the visual angle of the viewer (O) and/or kind and/or location of the source of light (LS). These teeth (T2) have, for example, a height that is inferior to that of the remaining teeth (T1). The inventive device allows not only production of special effects by embossing but also production of security features that are especially forgery-proof.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 11, 2003
    Publication date: January 22, 2004
    Inventor: Charles Boegli
  • Publication number: 20040011108
    Abstract: The invention relates to a method for rolling a metal profile into a metal strip in which method the technique of a profiled rolling in combination with a strip rolling is used, comprising that during the at least two-staged profiled rolling the metal rod is divided into two symmetrical segments. These segments are spread into the lateral regions of the material to be rolled into a flattened profile which is as an object for at least one-staged strip rolling so that the spread ratios between the diameter of the rod and the width of the strip of greater than 2,8:1 are achieved.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 19, 2002
    Publication date: January 22, 2004
    Inventors: Dan Hall, Ilpo Koppinen, George Meyer, Brian Swank
  • Publication number: 20040011109
    Abstract: The invention relates to a method for producing a metal strip from a cast by rolling in which method the technique of a profiled rolling in combination with a strip rolling is used. The material for the metal strip is first cast by using a casting technique to produce a cast profile having the center part thicker than the lateral parts and the cast profile is in an essentially continuous manner conducted into a rolling mill where during the at least two-staged profiled rolling the cast profile is divided into two symmetrical segments and maintained as two equal segments. These segments are spread into the lateral regions of the material to be rolled into a flattened profile which is as an object for at least one-staged strip rolling so that the spread ratios between the center part dimension of the cast profile and the width of the strip of greater than 2.8:1 are achieved.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 19, 2002
    Publication date: January 22, 2004
    Inventors: Dan Hall, Ilpo Koppinen, George Meyer, Brian Swank
  • Publication number: 20040011110
    Abstract: A device to bend the rolls (10) in a rolling stand, wherein each roll to be bent (11) is rotatably mounted in two corresponding chocks (12) each associated to two series of two double-effect actuators (13), for a total of four actuators (13) for each chock. Each actuator (13) is disposed on opposite sides of the corresponding chock (12) with respect to the axis of rotation (Y) of the roll (11) to be bent.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 21, 2003
    Publication date: January 22, 2004
    Inventors: Fausto Drigani, Stanislaw Pawlowski, Enrico Ventulini
  • Publication number: 20040011111
    Abstract: An apparatus for drawing a strand has a frame extending in a longitudinal direction, a pair of substantially identical linear motors each having a primary fixed on the frame, and a movable secondary slidable along the respective primary in the direction. The primaries extend parallel to the direction and are transversely spaced on a plane extending in the direction. A strand clamp capable of gripping the strand is fixed between the secondaries. Electricity is supplied to the primaries to longitudinally displace the secondaries and clamp in the frame so that the clamp and any strand held by it are advanced longitudinally through the frame.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 7, 2002
    Publication date: January 22, 2004
    Applicant: SMS Meer GmbH
    Inventors: Hermann-Josef Klingen, Norbert Zillekens, Ralf Bonsels, Thomas Winterfeldt
  • Publication number: 20040011112
    Abstract: The invention relates to an apparatus for spreading and shaping can bodies, having a pin-like shaping tool that is forced from one end into the can body to be widened and a counter tool.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 16, 2003
    Publication date: January 22, 2004
    Inventors: Norbert Lentz, Steffen Rotz, Jan Riemenschneider, Karl-Heinz Witt
  • Publication number: 20040011113
    Abstract: The invention relates to a process for producing a metal can (11), which metal can (11) has a can body (111) with a narrowed can neck (112) and a decorative layer (10) which has been attached to the can body (111). In the first phase of process steps a metal can preform (110) with an undecorated can body (111) and tapered can neck (112) is produced and in a second phase of process steps which takes place later or immediately follows the first phase of the process steps, the metal can preform (110) is provided with a decorative layer (10) which consists preferably of shrinkable material and which has a decoration (100) and is finished. The invention relates furthermore to a device for carrying out this process, to metal cans (11) which can be produced using this process or metal can preforms (110) which can be further processed and to a decorative layer (10) for use in this process.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 31, 2003
    Publication date: January 22, 2004
    Inventor: Hagmann Jakob
  • Publication number: 20040011114
    Abstract: Apparatus and method for forming of elongated metal articles comprising one or more rotating dies (1) provided with an indentation (3), being complementary shaped to the actual final shape of the resulting articles, where the dies (1) are designed and adapted to ensure/allow three rotational degrees of freedom under deformation by rotation of the dies.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 21, 2003
    Publication date: January 22, 2004
    Inventors: Frode Paulsen, Sigmund Roe
  • Publication number: 20040011115
    Abstract: The method of bending the long length of the member and a bending apparatus which are capable of restraining the occurrence of wrinkles in flanges of the long length of the member, preventing free end sides of the flanges from buckling, and setting and taking out the long length of the member easily in bending a long length of a member in the longitudinal direction, which is approximately L-shaped or U-shaped in cross section and has a platelike bottom portion and flanges installed in a standing manner at the end of the platelike bottom portion, it is to provide.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 25, 2003
    Publication date: January 22, 2004
    Applicant: Komatsu, Ltd.
    Inventors: Nobuyoshi Masumoto, Tatsushi Itou
  • Publication number: 20040011116
    Abstract: The ceramic sensor body, held inside a housing by a sealing packing, is provided with a circumferential coating of electrically insulating material in the region of the sealing packing, so that the sensor body remains potential-free with respect to the housing, even when a sealing packing is used that is made of a material having poor electrical insulating qualities. In this manner, it is also possible to use a glass putty for the sealing packing, which, while having comparatively poor insulating characteristics, provides a good sealing effect at high loading capacity.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 22, 2003
    Publication date: January 22, 2004
    Inventors: Helmut Weyl, Hans-Joerg Renz, Lothar Diehl, Juergen Karle
  • Publication number: 20040011117
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a method and system for detecting air leaks in tires and in a tire testing machine. Each of the tires is mounted on the tire testing machine; inflated with an air flow from an inflation system to a first pressure; and maintained at the first pressure by continued supply of air from the inflation system into the tire. The flow of the continued supply of air is measured with a calorimetric flow sensor calibrated to output a sensor signal having a full scale value corresponding to an identical model tire mounted on the tire testing machine with no air leaks in the model tire or the testing machine. The flow of the continued supply of air is compared with an averaged flow for previously measured tires mounted on the tire testing machine with no air leaks in the tires or the testing machine. A control signal indicating an air leak is outputted if the sensor signal is 20% to 80% of the full scale value.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 19, 2002
    Publication date: January 22, 2004
    Inventors: William Randall Dutt, John Edward Fahringer, John Michael Maloney
  • Publication number: 20040011118
    Abstract: An electronic intelligent indenter system that determines the hardness and the case depth of a hardened portion of a test part in a non-destructive manner. The system employs an electronic indenter tool having a tip. To determine the depth of the case hardened portion of the part, the indenter tip is placed in contact with the surface of the part, and a laser emits a laser beam pulse that impinges the surface of the part proximate the tip. The laser beam generates ultrasonic waves that propagate into the part. The ultrasonic waves reflect off of a transition between the case hardened portion and an unhardened portion of the part. A detector in the indenter system detects the reflected ultrasonic waves. The ultrasonic waves cause the detector to generate a signal identifying the time between when the laser pulse is emitted and when the reflected wave is received.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 18, 2002
    Publication date: January 22, 2004
    Applicant: Wayne State University
    Inventor: Roger W. Pryor
  • Publication number: 20040011119
    Abstract: The invention involves an apparatus and method for calculating characteristics of materials, such as equivalent strain, using an indenter where the method used is independent of indenter geometry. The method includes performing a scratch test to calculate the strain for each of a plurality of indenter shapes, such as a theoretical sphere and cone, using known equations. The strain of a composite indenter, such as a cone with a rounded tip, can then be determined taking into account contributions from each of the plurality of theoretical shapes.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 8, 2003
    Publication date: January 22, 2004
    Inventors: Vincent P. Jardret, Pierre Jean Morel
  • Publication number: 20040011120
    Abstract: A device for detecting a running surface for a vehicle, comprising a plurality of sensors (c1 to c8) designed to be oriented towards the running surface to detect modifications thereof, data processing means for processing data derived from the sensors, wherein the sensors are relatively arranged so as to associate at least part of the points of aim on the ground (v1 to v8) in pairs (p1 to p4), the two points of aim on the ground being spaced apart by a first specific distance, and the transverse distances separating two adjacent pairs (p1 to p4) of points of aim on the ground increase towards a longitudinal axis along a direction substantially perpendicular to said axis.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 9, 2003
    Publication date: January 22, 2004
    Inventor: Jean-Christophe Riat
  • Publication number: 20040011121
    Abstract: A system and method for the abatement of industrial process gases utilizing a combustion engine in combination with an oxidizer. The use of these two elements in conjunction with the use of concentrating equipment where required provides for an energy efficient pollution control method. Means are provided for splitting the gas flow into two streams in any proportion or manner, the first stream mixed with air being passed to a combustion engine, the second being passed to the combustion unit. Means for detecting and controlling are also provided to provide optimal ratio/quantity of gases to the engine in accordance with its requirements.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 10, 2003
    Publication date: January 22, 2004
    Inventors: Michael Joseph Ashe, Christopher Steven Buchanan
  • Publication number: 20040011122
    Abstract: In a constitution where, when a cam sensor is failed, a present value of cylinder discrimination value is estimated from a previous value to continue a control for each cylinder, if an engine is rotated in reverse at an engine stop and also fuel is burned during the reverse rotation, the control for each cylinder based on the cylinder discrimination value estimated based on the previous value is prohibited.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 15, 2003
    Publication date: January 22, 2004
    Applicant: HITACHI UNISIA AUTOMOTIVE, LTD.
    Inventor: Hirokazu Shimizu
  • Publication number: 20040011123
    Abstract: A compact air pressure gauge assembly mountable to the valve stem of a inflatable tire or mountable through the rim of a wheel for continuous monitoring of the tire inflation pressure. The air pressure gauge assembly has a compact design to extend the valve stem or wheel rim relatively little to avoid curb contact and interference with the wheel balance. By positioning the air intake in a right angle with the opening for receiving a standard valve stem or by positioning the air intake straight across the opening for receiving the valve stem while the dial face is positioned in an right angle, the air intake is separated from the airtight chamber housing the sensing element. A diaphragm having a simple mechanical design is provided as sensing element. The diaphragm includes a membrane being connected with a pressure indicator that moves up and down according to the tire pressure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 22, 2002
    Publication date: January 22, 2004
    Inventor: Robert Rutherford
  • Publication number: 20040011124
    Abstract: The invention pertains to a process for determining aerodynamic parameters of an airflow surrounding an aircraft. On the basis of at least two probes situated on the skin of the aircraft, each probe comprising means for measuring the local angle of attack (&agr;loc i, &agr;loc j), the process consists in determining the angle of attack (&agr;) and/or sideslip (&bgr;) of the aircraft, as a function of the local angle of attack of each probe and of the aerodynamic field of the aircraft. The invention also pertains to a process for detecting a fault with a probe used to determine the aerodynamic parameters of the airflow surrounding an aircraft.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 16, 2003
    Publication date: January 22, 2004
    Inventors: Joel Choisnet, Lionel Collot, Nicolas Hanson
  • Publication number: 20040011125
    Abstract: The invention is intended to improve reliability of a thermal type air flow measuring instrument employing a molded part formed by integral molding together with a metal plate. A slot or opening allowing only a resin to pass through the same is formed in the metal plate in an area or thereabout subjected to higher stresses. A part of connector terminals, which is not required from the intrinsic object, is disposed in the vicinity of a area where the resin has a larger thickness and the temperature difference between the inside and the outside of the resin is locally increased. An injecting direction is set so as to prevent a weld line and a void from being generated in a combined way. In the molded part with the metal plate inserted therein, the occurrence of cracks and an increase of the fatigue crack growth rate can be suppressed and reliability can be improved.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 26, 2003
    Publication date: January 22, 2004
    Inventors: Masayuki Kozawa, Shinya Igarashi, Nobuhito Hiramatsu, Naoki Saito, Hiromu Kikawa
  • Publication number: 20040011126
    Abstract: A continuous measurement of the level of contents in a container is effected by a level measuring device functionong in accordance with the transit time principle by means of waves transmitted from a position located above the highest possible contents level onto the surface of the material in the container. A measuring circuit determines the contents level from the transit time of the useful echo reflected from the material surface. In addition, one or more limit sensors are located at the container, each of which furnishes a signal indicating whether the contents level is above or below a level to be monitored by the limit sensor and which is situated between the minimum and maximum contents levels of the container. The measuring circuit receives the output signals of all limit sensors and uses these output signals to check and eventually to correct the contents level measured value determined by the level measuring device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 28, 2003
    Publication date: January 22, 2004
    Inventors: Johanngeorg Otto, Wolfgang Lubcke
  • Publication number: 20040011127
    Abstract: The invention relates to a method for determining the current filling level of a liquid, preferably a calibrating, quality control, or cleaning fluid, or waste water, in a container, for example of an analyzer, where an immersion pipe is dipped into the liquid in the container to be filled or drained. The immersion pipe is connected to a pumping device via a tube system. The pressure p in the tube system is measured and increased, starting from the ambient pressure p0, until a first discontinuous pressure change occurs at pressure p1 due to the liquid column in the immersion pipe being forced out of the pipe, and/or the pressure p in the tube system is decreased until the liquid column in the immersion pipe reaches a change in cross-section of the immersion pipe, which change is situated above the maximum filling level of the liquid, such that a second discontinuous pressure change occurs at pressure p2 due to the liquid column reaching the change in cross-section.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 30, 2003
    Publication date: January 22, 2004
    Inventors: Herfried Huemer, Horst Ruether
  • Publication number: 20040011128
    Abstract: A capacitive fill level measuring instrument includes a fill level sensor having several sensor arrays (1), electrical lines (2) connected to the sensor arrays (1), select switches (4) with multi-pole sides (3) connected to the lines (2), and a power supply and evaluation circuit (8) having a power supply circuit (6) and an evaluation circuit (7) connected to the mono-pole sides of the select switches (4). A measured value is determined for a state in which no sensor array (1) is connected via the evaluation circuits (7) and (8), the sensor arrays (1) are alternately connected to the multi-pole side (3) of the first select switch (4) and the multi-pole side (3) of the second select switch (4), and after a first fill level determination, the sensor arrays (1), adjacent to a boundary layer, are triggered or interrogated, advantageously, solving various problems with background art devices.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 10, 2003
    Publication date: January 22, 2004
    Applicant: i f m electronic gmbh
    Inventors: Jochen Gundlach, Werner Hoch, Jaromir Palata
  • Publication number: 20040011129
    Abstract: An in-tank fuel module for a fuel tank having a conductive lead for connection to an electrical ground plane and at least a first electrically conductive component, and a conductive polymeric strand electrically connecting the component to the lead. A jet aspiration pump is made of conductive polymeric material. A conductive component is connected to the ground plane through the fuel level sensing assembly circuit.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 19, 2003
    Publication date: January 22, 2004
    Inventors: Daniel L. Gilmour, John R. Forgue, David H. Ford
  • Publication number: 20040011130
    Abstract: A micromechanical rotation speed sensor with a gimbals-mounted structure capable of vibration includes two vibration elements (4, 5) which are swivelled about two axes (A, B) oriented perpendicular toward each other. An excitation unit in the form of an electrode (7) sets the first vibration element (4) into a vibration about the first axis of rotation (A). A read out unit in the form of a read out electrode (8) records a tipping or vibration of the second vibration element (5) about the second axis of rotation (B) as a measure for the rotation speed of the sensor. Additional mass elements (6a, 6b) which are symmetrically aligned are situated on the upper side (2a) and the underside (2b) of the first vibration element (4) which form a rocker. The sensor is manufactured of at least three individually processed wafers which are finally joined together and form a top part (1), a midsection (2) and a bottom part (3).
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 23, 2003
    Publication date: January 22, 2004
    Inventors: Karin Bauer, Tanjo Gleissner, Konrad Lentner, Stefan Sassen, Josef Schalk, Ralf Voss
  • Publication number: 20040011131
    Abstract: The acceleration detection sensor comprises a plate in which there are defined a support portion, at least one vibrating element carried by the support portion and sensitive to the movements to which the sensor is subjected, and at least one additional portion connected to the vibrating element and active in detecting acceleration, the sensor including a temperature probe comprising a conductive track which is fixed on at least the additional active portion and which is of resistance that varies as a function of ambient temperature.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 14, 2003
    Publication date: January 22, 2004
    Inventors: Paul Featonby, Alain Renault, Paul Vandebeuque