Abstract: A coupling device connecting the output of a microchromatograph (&mgr;CG) to the input of a mass spectrometer (SM), said coupling device comprising a capillary tube with one end connected in sealed fashion to the source under vacuum of the mass spectrometer through the intermediary of an interface device, and with the other end connected to the output of the microchromatograph, in slack fashion, open to the atmosphere; the length and the diameter of the capillary tube being chosen such that the flow rate inside the capillary tube is very close to the flow rate at the output from the microchromatograph; the interface device being, furthermore, provided with heating means for very precise adjustment of the flow rate registered by the capillary.

Abstract: The invention relates to a device (30) for determining the size distribution of aerosol particles from a flow (11), the device (30) comprising an electric mobility analyzer (10) and an impactor (20), connected to each other in such a way that the nozzle part (22a) of the first stage of the impactor (20) is simultaneously the bottom plate of said mobility analyzer (10).

Abstract: The invention relates to an ozone sensor having an ozone-sensitive layer containing an ozone-sensitive material which is encapsulated in a polymer or in a polymer mixture or is coated by at least one polymer or polymer mixture. Advantages result from a longer service life of the ozone-sensitive materials which, because of their high hygroscopic properties, would not be stable without encapsulation or coating. Furthermore, a polymer matrix can be selectively used as a filter or in order to eliminate interfering influences.

Abstract: The invention relates to a device for determining and/or monitoring the density and/or the level (L) of a filling material (8) in a container (6). A transmitting unit (2) which emits radioactive radiation and a receiving unit (3) which is arranged in such a way that it receives the radioactive radiation or the secondary radiation that is produced by the interaction of the radioactive radiation with the filling material (8) are provided. A regulating/evaluating unit (13) which determines the density and/or the level of the filling material (8) in the container (6) using the measuring data that is supplied by the receiving unit (3) is also provided. The aim of the invention is to provide a device which enables the level or the density of a filling material in a container to be measured reliably. To this end, the receiving unit (3) consists of individual detector units (4).

Abstract: A combustion condition detecting apparatus for an internal combustion engine has a current distributor that distributes an ion current, a band pass filter which extracts a knock vibration component from a current distributor output, a knock determination section which outputs a knock pulse if the extracted knock vibration component is larger than a knock detection threshold value, a combustion determination section which outputs a combustion pulse when an current distributor output is larger than a combustion pulse threshold value, an ignition signal determination section which makes a determination on the basis of an ignition signal as to whether energization of an ignition coil for ignition in another cylinder is started, and an ion current limiting section which limits its ion current output to the current distributor during a predetermined time period after the start of energization of the ignition coil for ignition in the another cylinder.

Abstract: A gas X is sealed into a test film bag, which is obtained by processing a test plastic film into a bag, and has a known mass and surface area. The mass of the test film bag in which the gas is sealed is measured by an electronic balance a plurality of numbers of times on the time series while the temperature is kept constant in a constant temperature vessel which is filled with a gas Y different from the gas X so as to make the pressure in the vessel equal to the internal pressure of the test film bag. A transmission rate associated with the gas X is then computed from the relationship between the measurement results, the mass of the test film bag alone, and the surface area by a computer.

Abstract: The invention relates to a device and a method for automated and simultaneous determination of the viscosity of a plurality of liquids.

Abstract: A method and a device are proposed for measuring the viscosity of a liquid (12), a conclusion being reached on the temperature of the liquid (12 at the location of the viscosity sensor (20), starting from temperature measurements and/or viscosity measurements made in the past.

Abstract: In order to measure at least one parameter of a mixture of carrier substance, water and gas, the permittivity value of the mixture is measured at different frequencies by means of a network analyzer (1) and a sensor. The measurements are entered into a mixing formula for forming a system of equations. From the system of equations, at least one parameter of the mixture can be determined. The method is also suited for the measurement of the location dependence of a parameter, e.g. for the measurement of the humidity distribution in concrete.

Abstract: Rapid characterization and screening of polymer samples to determine average molecular weight, molecular weight distribution and other properties is disclosed. Rapid flow characterization systems and methods, including liquid chromatography and flow-injection analysis systems and methods are preferably employed. High throughput, automated sampling systems and methods, high-temperature characterization systems and methods, and rapid, indirect calibration compositions and methods are also disclosed. The described methods, systems, and devices have primary applications in combinatorial polymer research and in industrial process control.

Abstract: PURPOSE: To provide the biosolution sensor enabling a high accuracy and a small size with an SH-SAW device.

Abstract: A system and method for characterizing and measuring hydrodynamic grooves made by ECM processes is disclosed. The method includes a procedure for alignment of the work piece to the measurement apparatus as well as a technique for accurately reliably measuring the erosion pattern quickly. Additionally, the invention provides a system for characterizing and measuring the erosion of these grooves.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for scanning multiple scanning probe microscopes in close proximity, to scan overlapping scan areas at the same time while avoiding collision employs a control system providing drive signals to a first Atomic Force Microscope (AFM) and calculated drive signals to additional AFMs based on the first drive signals and the relative position of the additional AFMs to the first AFM for consistent spaced motion. Scanning and Failure Analysis (FA) probing of multiple feature of interest using multiple APMs allows for reduced time for locating FA features to set up measurements.

Abstract: An apparatus and a method for observing a submerged sample are disclosed, in which a scanning probe microscope comprises a cantilever with a probe arranged at the forward end thereof, a light source for applying light to the cantilever and a detector for detecting the light reflected from the cantilever, the apparatus further comprising a sample container having a side wall for holding a liquid therein. The probe is placed in closely opposed relation to the sample in the liquid in the sample container, and the relative positions of the probe and the sample are changed, so that based on the interaction between the probe and the sample, a surface image of the sample is produced to observe the sample. A device for preventing volatilization of the liquid having the sample submerged therein is formed on the surface of the liquid. An insulative liquid layer not mixed with the surface of the liquid having the sample submerged therein is formed on the surface of the liquid.

Abstract: A method for accelerated aging of an automotive catalytic converter under conditions incorporating cold start simulation.

Abstract: Disclosed herein is a method and apparatus for monitoring the air pressure of a tire. Various colors are displayed by the apparatus to denote an inflation level of the tire, and the apparatus may remain coupled to the air nozzle of a tire indefinitely. The apparatus includes a diaphragm that deforms in response to an air pressure differential on opposing sides thereof. Deformation of the diaphragm may alter the position of a color indicating cup, such that a color is displayed through an observation window, informing a user as to the inflation state of the tire. An LED circuit is provided for indicating a low tire pressure condition.

Abstract: Disclosed herein is a method and apparatus for monitoring the air pressure of a tire. Various colors are displayed by the apparatus to denote an inflation level of the tire, and the apparatus may remain coupled to the air nozzle of a tire indefinitely. The apparatus may include a diaphragm that deforms in response to an air pressure differential on opposing sides thereof. Deformation of the diaphragm may alter the position of a color indicating cup, such that a color is displayed through an observation window, informing a user as to the inflation state of the tire.

Abstract: A method and apparatus is provided to determine downhole pressures, such as annular pressure and/or pore pressure, during a drilling operation. A downhole drilling tool includes at least one conduit and a corresponding gauge. The conduit is positioned in the downhole tool and has an opening adapted to receive downhole fluids. The conduit is positionable in fluid communication with one of the wellbore and the formation whereby pressure is equalized therebetween. The gauge is provided for measuring the pressure in the conduit.

Abstract: A heating resistor type air flow rate measuring apparatus is provided with a couple of heating resistors placed at the positions where those resistors may interfere thermally each other with respect to an air flow, and a couple of driving circuits for driving those heating resistors. The air flow rate signal is obtained by calculating the difference between the output signals of a couple of heating resistors in terms of heat radiation rate effected by an air flow, and adding the difference value onto the output signal of one of heating resistors.

Abstract: A flow sensor includes a substrate, an electrical insulating film, and a flow velocity detection mechanism. In the substrate, a diaphragm portion having a first surface in contact with a measurement target fluid and a thick fixing portion surrounding the diaphragm portion are integrally formed. The electrical insulating film is formed on a second surface of the diaphragm portion which is on a side opposite to the first surface. The flow velocity detection mechanism is arranged on the electrical insulating film. A method of manufacturing a flow sensor is also disclosed.

Abstract: A flowmeter is provided for measuring the flow rate of liquids, particularly liquids with solids suspended therein, or corrosive liquids, by measuring a flow without any contact between the sensing elements of the flowmeter and the liquid. The flowmeter is connected to upstream piping and downstream piping. Interconnected with the upstream piping is a first expansion joint, a tapered nozzle and a second expansion joint of smaller diameter. Extending from the second expansion joint is a reversed tapered nozzle connected to the downstream piping. One or more strain gauges, or a strain gauge assembly, is interconnected with the second expansion joint. The force of flow on the tapered nozzle creates a higher velocity flow within the tapered nozzle and then an expansion thereafter. This tends to urge the expansion nozzle, and the second expansion joint connected thereto, towards the upstream piping. Such movement is measured by th7e strain gauges.

Abstract: This measurement rod (2) for measuring the level of a liquid bath (1) is cooled but is provided with a solid end piece (5) so that the bath cannot solidify in front of the orifice (7) of the measurement gas injected in the bath, for which the pressure is being measured.

Abstract: The invention relates to a filling level measuring device which is used to measure the level of a filling material in a container (1) and a probe (17) is provided, which protrudes inside said container. The filling level measuring device can be mounted and dismounted without the probe (17) needing to be moved in the container (1).

Abstract: A micromechanical component includes a substrate and a movable structure situated on the surface of the substrate. The movable structure is movable parallel to the surface of the substrate. The structure is surrounded by a frame having a cap attached to it. In the area of the movable element, the cap has a stop limiting the movement of the movable element in a direction perpendicular to the surface of the substrate.

Abstract: A triaxial acceleration sensor comprises an inertial mass suspended in three orthogonal directions by support members in a statically determinate structure. Acceleration applied to the inertial mass generates loading forces that stress the support members either in tension or in compression. The stress levels are thus a measure of the applied acceleration. In an embodiment of this invention, the support members are force-sensitive resonators whose resonant frequencies of oscillation are related to the stresses in the members. The resonant frequencies are thus a measure of the complete three-dimensional vector of the applied acceleration.

Abstract: First and second fixed electrodes provided on a substrate, a movable electrode which is provided above the first and second fixed electrodes facing against them, and is elastically supported on the substrate by a first elastic supporting body and is swingable, a mass which is elastically supported on the substrate by a second elastically supporting body and is movable in response to an acceleration in a direction perpendicular to the substrate, and a linking portion for linking the movable electrode and the mass at a position away from a swing axis of the movable electrode by a predetermined distance are provided. An acceleration is measured based on changes in a first capacitance provided by the first fixed electrode and the movable electrode and a second capacitance provided by the second fixed electrode and the movable electrode. Thus, a high impact resistant and highly reliable acceleration sensor can be obtained.

Abstract: An injection molding apparatus is disclosed that includes an injection mold, a mold injector, and means for monitoring the injection mold process using acoustic energy. The injection mold includes a cavity for receiving an injection mold material, such as a polymer as injected via the mold injector. The monitoring system includes an acoustic energy generator, an ultrasonic crystal, and an energy monitoring device. The acoustic energy generator produces continuous acoustic energy to be non-invasively applied to the injection mold as the polymer is delivered into the mold. The energy monitoring device monitors changes in dynamic parameters of a resulting continuous resonant frequency established by the acoustic energy generator through the ultrasonic crystal. The ultrasonic crystal serves also as a transducer to receive an output signal from the mold to be delivered to the energy monitoring device.

Abstract: The invention provides an acoustic diagnosis/measurement apparatus/method using a pulse of electromagnetic force, capable of non-destructively and precisely diagnosing or measuring corrosion, adhesion, the. cover depth, and/or the diameter of a reinforcing iron rod in a structure made of reinforced concrete. A coil 12 is attached to a surface of a structure 11 including a conductor 11a and a non-conductive material 11b covering the conductor 11a. A current pulse is applied to the coil 12 thereby generating a magnetic field pulse. The magnetic field pulse causes an eddy current to be induced in the conductor 11a. The conductor 11a is oscillated by interaction between the eddy current and the magnetic field pulse. As a result, an acoustic signal is generated by the conductor 11a and the acoustic signal is converted into an eclectic signal by an acoustic transducer 14 disposed to the surface of the structure 11.

Abstract: A capacitive pressure transmitter is provided. In one aspect, the transmitter includes a capacitive pressure sensor coupled directly to the measured media without any intervening fluid isolation. A filter is preferably used to keep particulates from reaching the measuring diaphragm. In another aspect, a capacitive pressure transmitter is provided with at least one self-contained isolator interposed between a process connection and the capacitive pressure sensor. In both aspects, the capacitive pressure transmitter is relatively small and preferably constructed from materials that facilitate low-cost manufacture.

Abstract: An electronic stress monitoring device (1) is provided that is arranged to detect and record measurements of stress experienced by a structure (2) to which the stress history unit is attached, with the measurement and recordal of stress occurring at substantially the same location. The stress monitoring unit (1) is also arranged to process the detected readings of stress to determine when significant structural events are occurring within the structure (2) to which it is attached. Data indicative of these events are recorded within the stress monitoring device (1). Periodically data recorded within the stress monitoring device (1) is obtained by a data reader (4) and then transmitted to a computer (6) for subsequent analysis.

Abstract: The invention relates to a force transducer, which is inserted into a small boring inside a test object and which, inside the boring, can measure the elastic extensions caused by the surrounding stress matrix. The force transducer is provided in two parts consisting of an outer part and of an inner part. Both parts are provided with a conical inner boring or conical outer periphery in such a manner that they can be held inside the boring of the test object by a tractive force generated using any means. In order to span a large tolerance zone the measuring boring, the outer part is axially provided with multiple slits on both sides. Said outer part is provided with a polygonal shape and thereby detects the deformations to be measured not over the entire periphery, but it records these via the contacts axially oriented through the angle lines. The extension is integrated in a peripheral direction between said contacts and is transferred into the inner part provided with any type of measuring device.

Abstract: Method and device for monitoring the flow speed of an infusion solution, such as with hemofiltration or hemodiafiltration. The device has a tube for conducting an infusion solution from a source of infusion solution to a pump device in the form of a metering pump, such as a peristaltic pump or a ceramic pump, and on to an infusion device, such as a drip chamber. The flow speed is determined by the metering pump. The flow speed is monitored separately in that the pressure across a restriction device in the tube is measured. The restriction device can be a separately arranged restriction valve. Alternatively the restriction device is arranged by the tube having a small internal diameter of the order of 0.5 mm in size. The pressure measuring device only needs to measure the absolute pressure with respect to the atmosphere. The hydrostatic pressure due to the infusion bag being hung above the pump and the pressure meter is subtracted in a calculation device.

Abstract: A circuit board, which includes one or more sensors, is integrated in a fluid control device, such as a valve manifold and a base plate. The fluid control device selectively directs a fluid used to control pneumatic or hydraulic equipment. The sensors are used to measure physical characteristics of the fluid, such as flow rate, pressure, and temperature. A flow sensor includes a paddle and a support member. The paddle is disposed at least partially in an orifice and is displaced in response to fluid flow. The support member positions the paddle in the orifice and includes a plurality of strain gauges. The strain gauges are disposed on only one side of the support member and are mechanically stressed in response to the paddle being displaced by the fluid flow.

Abstract: According to the invention, a digital processor (DSP) is provided in a measuring and operating circuit for a Coriolis-type mass flowmeter. From the vibration sensor signals, said digital processor evaluates only the differential signal (S) and the one sensor signal (S1). The in-phase component (I) and the quadrature components (Q) are determined for the differential signal (D), and the amplification of the second sensor signal (S2) is controlled in such a manner that the in-phase component (I) vanishes. The mass flow rate (m) is determined from the quadrature component (Q).

Abstract: An apparatus and method for magnetizing a shaft in a circumferential direction is provided in which electrical current is applied to one or more electrical current conduction tubes and is directed through the tube to at least one coupler having an internal diameter sized so as to circumferentially contact the exterior diameter of a part of the shaft to be magnetized. An electric current pulse is applied to the electrical current conduction tube and radially enters the shaft from the coupler associated with the tube at a substantially 90° degree angle to the axis of the shaft. The current is forced axially along the length of the shaft in the direction of at least a second coupler to magnetize one or more bands along the shaft in a circumferential direction. The current exits the shaft by way of the second coupler and a second electrical conduction tube.

Abstract: A system for measuring seat belt forces is used to control deployment of vehicle airbags. The system includes a rigid plate member having one end attached to a portion of the seat belt and an opposite end mounted to a vehicle structure. The seat belt is used to secure passengers or an infant car seat to the vehicle seat. A sensor including a strain gage is mounted on the rigid plate between the ends and is used to measure the magnitude of forces exerted on the seat belt by the passenger or car seat. The strain gage generates a signal representative of the tension in the seat belt, which is used to control deployment of the airbag. The airbag is not deployed if the tension in the seat belt exceeds a predetermined limit.

Abstract: A sort block for use with sorting flow analysis system. The sort block includes a fin extending into a sort stream in the sort block. Unsorted particles and aerosol are aspirated into the open top of the fin. When error is detected, collection baskets associated with the fin extend into the sort stream, block passage of particles to the collection containers and aspirate all droplets and aerosol to a waste or retrieval container. This sort block may include error monitors, such as a laser and camera combination, which monitor the flow stream and control the extension of the fin and basket type collector.

Abstract: A fluid collection apparatus is provided including an insert configured for disposal within a tube. The insert includes a first diameter, a second diameter and defines a chamber therebetween. The chamber extends from a closed end to an open end that is configured for receipt of a fluid sample. The second diameter may define an interior cavity of the insert. The interior cavity may include a base portion and a barrel portion. A method for collecting sediment from a fluid sample is disclosed.

Abstract: The present invention relates to optimizing the configuration of rotary impact collectors and devices in which such rotary impact collectors are employed. Rotary impact collectors are formed out of base plate upon which a plurality of vanes are mounted. One aspect of the present invention is a combined impact collector and fan in which the ratio of vane height to impeller diameter is in the range of about 0.01 to about 0.2. Preferably, the vanes are evenly spaced around the impeller so as to present a balanced load to the motor. Other performance enhancing elements include the use of truncated vanes, configurations optimized for injection molding fabrication, controlling the orientation of the vanes to reduce the formation of vortex forces, and enhancements configured to increase the ability to collected particles rinsed off such impellers.

Abstract: A clamping element for the transport of a substrate in a predefined transport direction comprises a first and a second leg with a first and second clamping jaw for clamping a substrate. Each of the two clamping jaws has a clamping plate which is movable in transport direction relative to the corresponding leg. A sensor measures the deflection of the first clamping plate relative to the first leg. As soon as the measured deflection exceeds a predefined threshold value, the clamping element is opened.

Abstract: A device for monitoring a milk tank. The device is provided with a monitoring unit comprising a computer and a memory for at least temporarily storing data, a thermometer for measuring the temperature of a fluid present in the milk tank, and for supplying to the monitoring unit a temperature signal that is indicative of the measured temperature, and with a meter for measuring an electrical parameter, such as the conductivity, of the fluid present in the milk tank and for supplying to the monitoring unit a parameter signal that is indicative of the measured electrical parameter.

Abstract: A device called “pill” (10) is provided for in-line measurement of properties, such as pressure and temperature, in a fluid flow within a pipeline system. The device is small enough to travel in the medium of the pipeline system in an unrestricted manner. It has at least one sensor to scan properties such as pressure and temperature at a desired rate. Also, the device includes a microprocessor for logging data scanned by the sensor (18) so that it can later be downloaded and analysed by a PC. Moreover, the device has a buoyancy compensator for adjusting the specific gravity of the device to make it compatible with the medium in which it travels. The novel device is particularly suitable for use in solids transport systems, such as mining backfill systems.

Abstract: A vibration generator comprises two unbalance shafts, which are positively coupled in a contra-rotative manner and whose relative phrase position can be shifted by a phase shifting device. Each of the unbalance shafts supports a main unbalance mass and a partial unbalance mass that can move in relation thereto. The position of the partial unbalance masses on the respective unbalance shafts can be actively altered within a large range by adjusting devices. The resulting vibration vector generated by the vibration generator can set in a diverse manner with regard to direction and magnitude.

Abstract: An electromechanical drive mechanism is disclosed and includes a driving electromotor provided with a rotatable driving first axis, and mechanical transmission driven by the rotatable driving first axis, for through converting a first rotary movement of the rotatable driving first axis into a second rotary or linear movement of an actuator member driving a mechanical actuator along a range of actuator positions. The drive mechanism is furthermore provided with an forceback facility for effecting a return force on the drive mechanism towards a fallback position. The drive mechanism is furthermore mounted in a housing facility. In particular, the drive mechanism has the forceback facility operated in a mechanical manner and includes a return spring that is arranged for effecting a rotary return force on a rotatable axis that forms part of the mechanical transmission.

Abstract: A method is disclosed for starting heavy machinery driven by an internal combustion engine. The method comprises starting the engine and cyclically operating a clutch to couple the engine to the machinery intermittently. The transmission of torque to the machinery through the clutch is briefly interrupted or reduced when the engine risks stalling.

Abstract: An infinitely variable transmission comprising an angular velocity input member (12), an angular velocity output member (14), two parallel stages (18, 20) of cyclic angular velocity generating devices (24, 30), a drive arrangement (16) for applying angular velocity from the input member (12) to each of the angular velocity generating devices (24, 30), extraction devices (26, 32) which are each driven by a cyclic angular velocity generating device (24, 30) in each of the two stages (18, 20) means for varying the amplitude of the cyclic angular velocity produced by at least one of the stages (18, 20) and an arrangement (28, 34, 22) for summing and combining the pulsating angular velocity outputs from the extraction devices (26, 32)

Abstract: A transmission including a drive shaft that can be connected with a drive motor. The transmission has at least two input shafts that are part of respective separate, parallel transmission paths that each include a plurality of gear trains defining respective transmission ratios. At least one clutch is provided to enable a transmission step to be shifted with reduced tractive force interruption during a shift between different gears.

Abstract: The present invention discloses a signal transmitter for setting the operating states of an automatic shifting device of a gear change mechanism, having a selection means 1, which can be deflected in at least three directions, automatically returns into a normal position X at least for certain shift positions, and by means of which at least a shift position R for engaging a reverse gear, a shift position N for the interruption of the torque transmission in the gear change mechanism, and a shift position D for engaging a forward gear can be selected, wherein the selection means 1 can be deflected in a first direction for selecting the shift position N; N1, N2 for the interruption of the torque transmission in the gear change mechanism starting from the normal position X, and the selection means 1 can be deflected in another direction that is different from the first direction and is not the opposite direction to the first direction for selecting one of the other shift positions R, D starting from the shift pos

Abstract: A gear drive casing apparatus is disclosed for enclosing a gear drive used in a hygienic and sanitary environment. The gear drive casing apparatus includes a member having an external contoured surface, the member enclosing the gear drive. A further member has a further external contoured surface, the surface and the further surface cooperating with each other to define therebetween a smooth uninterrupted intersection such that the contoured surfaces and the intersection therebetween are easily cleaned. The surfaces and intersection present a self-draining configuration which inhibits the entrapment therein of any deleterious materials that would support the growth of bacteria, fungi, mold and other microorganisms.

Abstract: In a select system for an automatic transmission in which switchover between a mechanical automatic mode and an electrical manual mode is achieved by a lateral shift of a select lever, the select lever has an engaging protrusion extending a distance to one side, which remains inserted in an engaging groove opened in a rotatable linkage member. When the select lever is in the automatic mode, the linkage member is rotatable with the lever operation by engagement between the engaging protrusion and a part of the engaging groove so as to achieve mechanical transmission control of the automatic transmission. When the select lever is in the manual mode, the engaging protrusion, while disengaging from the part of the engaging groove, restricts rotation of the linkage member so as to prevent the mechanical transmission control.