Patents Issued in December 30, 2004
  • Publication number: 20040261502
    Abstract: A combustion pressure sensor for an internal combustion engine is provided. The sensor includes a sensing element such as a piezoelectric device sensitive to a physical load applied thereto to produce an electric signal indicative thereof and a bendable member. The bendable member is bent upon application of the combustion pressure in the engine to apply the physical load to the sensing element. Specifically, the physical load is applied to the sensing element which arises from the bend deformation of the bendable member, thus eliminating the need for a complete surface-to-surface contact between the sensing element and the bendable member. This results in a decreased unit-to-unit variation in sensitivity of combustion pressure sensors and ensures the stability of output characteristics of the combustion pressure sensor.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 14, 2004
    Publication date: December 30, 2004
    Applicant: Denso Corporation
    Inventors: Takehiro Watarai, Fuminori Nakashima, Hiromi Hiramatsu
  • Publication number: 20040261503
    Abstract: A submersible turbine pump includes a power head enclosed in a casing. A vacuum source associated with the submersible turbine pump draws a vacuum in the interior space of the casing. A pressure sensor may be used to monitor the vacuum in the interior space to detect a leak in the power head or the casing. If a leak is detected, an alarm may be generated and the submersible turbine pump may be deactivated.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 9, 2004
    Publication date: December 30, 2004
    Inventors: Ray J. Hutchinson, Donald D. Halla, Richard G. Dolson, Robert P. Hart, Richard K. Lucas, Kent D. Reid
  • Publication number: 20040261504
    Abstract: A vacuum generator that is coupled to a double-walled fuel supply piping internal to a fuel dispenser that carries the fuel from the underground storage tank to the hose and nozzle of the fuel dispenser. The double-walled fuel supply piping contains an inner piping that carries the fuel. An interstitial space is formed by the space between the inner piping and an outer piping that surrounds the inner piping to capture any leaked fuel from the inner piping. The interstitial space is coupled to a vacuum created by the vacuum generator to determine if a leak exists in the interstitial space. The vacuum generator may be a standalone unit or may be a submersible turbine pump that also pumps fuel from the underground storage tank to the fuel dispenser.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 9, 2004
    Publication date: December 30, 2004
    Inventors: Ray J. Hutchinson, Donald D. Halla, Richard G. Dolson, Robert P. Hart, Richard K. Lucas, Kent D. Reid
  • Publication number: 20040261505
    Abstract: The present invention deals with a method which allows to determine the wall friction profile along pipes transporting liquids, particularly petroleum industry liquids, by measuring the pressure transients induced by fast changes in the flow rate. This method is applicable to pipes in which the discharge pressure is greater then the bubble point of the transported liquid and, in any case, when free gas is absent in the pipe.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 13, 2004
    Publication date: December 30, 2004
    Applicants: ENI S.p.A., ENITECNOLOGIS S.p.A.
    Inventors: Alberto Di Lullo, Sebastiano Correra, Vittorio Rota, Gilberto Toffolo, Martin Bartosek
  • Publication number: 20040261506
    Abstract: A method for the leak testing of a motor vehicle fuel tank and associated evaporative emissions control system is provided. Nitrogen, compressed air or other gases are used to pressurize the system. The time required for pressurization is used to determine the tank headspace volume. The system pressure is then monitored for 120 seconds. The pressure drop in this period is then compared with a pass-fail value cutpoint from a look-up table stored in a computer attached to the testing apparatus. A pass-fail determination is then made. The pass-fail value cutpoint is pre-determined for a specified vapor volume and estimated liquid fuel temperature, as well as time of year, so that systems with leaks larger than a specified diameter consistently fail the test, while systems with leaks smaller than this value consistently pass the test.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 30, 2003
    Publication date: December 30, 2004
    Applicant: State of California
    Inventor: David J. Amlin
  • Publication number: 20040261507
    Abstract: Methods and apparatus for measuring sag properties of a drilling fluid using a rotary viscometer. An insert, or shoe, is placed at the bottom of the heat cup containing the fluid to be tested. A rotating cylinder is disposed within the fluid and solid particles are allowed to settle toward the bottom of the heat cup. The shoe incorporates a curved and inclined upper surface that directs the settled particles toward a well non-centrally located in the shoe. As the test is performed, fluid samples can be withdrawn from the well and analyzed. The samples can then be returned to the well and the test continued. The insert concentrates the settled solids into a single location, which increases the sensitivity of the test and provides a location for sample acquisition that is easily and repeatedly located, which allows for improved correlation with laboratory and flow loop results.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 25, 2003
    Publication date: December 30, 2004
    Applicant: M-I L.L.C.
    Inventors: Mario Zamora, Marian Baranowski
  • Publication number: 20040261508
    Abstract: A liquid sample sensing device comprises a set of stackable liquid sample base units that are adapted to be stacked together to form multiple sample volumes that are substantially sealed, each with an electroacoustic member disposed therein having a surface adapted for binding to a particular target molecule. Top and bottom units are preferably attached to a closed loop of flexible tubing and a peristaltic pump. Individual electroacoustic members in the stack can each be adapted to bind with different target molecules, allowing for a multiple target assay. Alternately, a plurality of electroacoustic members can be adapted to bind with the same type of target molecule, thereby increasing the sensitivity of the sensing device. The base units are adapted such that sample liquid is caused to flow over and be in close proximity to the sensing surface of each electroacoustic member as the sample liquid flows from one base unit to the next, thereby increasing the efficiency of binding.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 13, 2003
    Publication date: December 30, 2004
    Inventor: Klaus W. Berndt
  • Publication number: 20040261509
    Abstract: A method and device for testing a fuel metering system. A control unit checks the injector contacts during the initialization phase prior to starting up the fuel metering system. For the test, the injectors are activated by the control unit, and the current values and/or voltage values are evaluated to detect errors. The control unit controls the fuel metering process during operation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 8, 2004
    Publication date: December 30, 2004
    Inventors: Matthias Mrosik, Marco Gangi, Udo Schulz, Michael Schueller, Eduard Moser
  • Publication number: 20040261510
    Abstract: The invention is a device comprising means for detecting and signaling a physical value when connected to a rim (1) in a position below a pneumatic tire mounted on the rim (1), and further comprising means to discover a detachment of the device from the rim. The invention provides that the means to discover a detachment comprises a proximity sensor responsive to the rim (1).
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 5, 2004
    Publication date: December 30, 2004
    Inventor: Gunther Lothar Schulze
  • Publication number: 20040261511
    Abstract: A method of estimating the temperature of the air in the internal cavity of a tire in which:
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 16, 2004
    Publication date: December 30, 2004
    Inventors: Russell Shepherd, Richard Abinal, Eric Berger
  • Publication number: 20040261512
    Abstract: A vehicle wheel is formed of a plastic rim that receives a tire. The tire is preferably welded at each of its two beads to portions of the rim. The plastic rim is preferably formed of both a disc and an internal part. A sensor for sensing pressures within the tire is incorporated into the disc piece. It is imagined that the entire vehicle wheel could be secured together for the life of the wheel. That is, the tire cannot be replaced. Since a plastic rim is utilized, the sensor could utilize LF (or other wireless means) to communicate a signal indicative of pressure, acceleration (which is translated into wheel speed), temperature and other information that may be deemed as important for safety and convenience from the tire to a receiver on the vehicle. Since the rim will not be separated from the tire, the sensor can also store incoming information providing a complete record of the entire life of the vehicle wheel.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 17, 2004
    Publication date: December 30, 2004
    Inventors: Paul Desmond Daly, Allan Losey, Marcus E. Lewis
  • Publication number: 20040261513
    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. Further provided is a method for monitoring tire pressure in high pressure tires.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 1, 2004
    Publication date: December 30, 2004
    Inventors: Fred Joseph Wiseman, Ronald David Cook
  • Publication number: 20040261514
    Abstract: A spring has a fixed end and a free end, the free end when elevated to a specific elevation from the fixed end produces a load on an object. A spring constant of the spring is calculated, a load correction amount for correcting load of the spring is calculated using the spring constant, and the spring based on the load correction amount.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 27, 2004
    Publication date: December 30, 2004
    Inventor: Akira Umebayashi
  • Publication number: 20040261515
    Abstract: A spring has a fixed end and a free end. A specific portion of the free end is elevated from the fixed end, and a load measuring device that measures the load on the spring is arranged so as to make a physical contact with the free end. An elevation is measured from the fixed end of a specific portion of the load measuring device where the free end and the load measuring device make the physical contact with each other. It is determined whether the elevation measured is equal to a specific elevation and the load on the spring is measured with the load measuring device when the elevation measured is equal to a specific elevation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 27, 2004
    Publication date: December 30, 2004
    Inventor: Akira Umebayashi
  • Publication number: 20040261516
    Abstract: A rain gauge assembly includes, in an exemplary embodiment, a first hollow cylinder having a side wall and a bottom wall closing a first end of the first cylinder. The first cylinder is open at a second end. The assembly also includes a second hollow cylinder having a side wall and a bottom wall closing a first end of the second cylinder. The second cylinder is open at a second end and has an inside diameter approximately equal to the outside diameter of the first cylinder so that the first cylinder is receivable in the second cylinder. The second cylinder has a length that is less than the length of the first cylinder. The first and second cylinders are molded from a resilient translucent plastisol material. The assembly further includes a means for attaching the second cylinder to a surface.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 26, 2003
    Publication date: December 30, 2004
    Inventor: John Simpson
  • Publication number: 20040261517
    Abstract: The invention relates to an arrangement of optical elements in projection systems, preferably in projection modules having a changeable focal width such as for the imaging of tilt mirror matrices or for the imaging of reflective, i.e. transmissive, LCDs, whereby the optical elements (2, 3) fixed in place in mechanical holders (6, 7) are arranged so that they can be positioned on a common optical axis (5) relative to one another.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 9, 2004
    Publication date: December 30, 2004
    Inventors: Juergen Koehler, Rainer Schnell, Guenther Benedix, Eberhard Piehler, Hans-Juergen Meissner, Bjoern Hauer
  • Publication number: 20040261518
    Abstract: A multi-function air data sensing probe has a strut that is mounted on an aircraft and extends laterally from the aircraft skin. The strut is supported on a base plate, and has a pitot pressure sensing tube at the outer end thereof, with a pitot port facing upstream, and also includes a passageway for total air temperature sensor including a forwardly facing inlet scoop that leads to a chamber in the strut that is laterally offset from the inlet scoop so that flow changes direction as it enters the chamber. The surface defining the change of direction between the scoop and the chamber is provided with bleed holes for bleeding off boundary layer air. A vane type air data sensor is mounted on a shaft that rotates freely and is supported on the strut, and is positioned to sense the relative air flow past the strut to determine changes of relative angles of such air flow. In addition, the strut has static pressure sensing ports on lateral sides thereof leading to a separate chamber on the interior of the strut.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 26, 2003
    Publication date: December 30, 2004
    Inventors: Greg A. Seidel, Dennis J. Cronin, John H. Mette, Mark R. Koosmann, James A. Schmitz, John R. Fedele, Dana A. Kromer
  • Publication number: 20040261519
    Abstract: A spacer has an annular concave portion, at one end face, to accept a rectifier that rectifies fluid flowing through a flow channel in a flowmeter, a protruding annular convex portion, at the other end face, of a size to fit in the annular concave portion, and fixing means, on an outer surface, for fixing the spacer to a tube of the flow channel through engagement. A rectifier unit is temporarily assembled by integrating the spacer and the rectifier that are provided alternately in series in an axial direction into a tubular unit. It is thus possible to achieve efficient assembly, by which plural rectifiers are inserted and attached inside the tube through a single insertion operation. Moreover, it is possible to address a need for a reduction of rectifiers in size or a change to the specifications regarding the number of rectifiers to be provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 16, 2004
    Publication date: December 30, 2004
    Inventors: Satoshi Nozoe, Toshimitsu Fujiwara, Hidenari Kuribayashi, Osamu Makino, Tatsuhide Morisawa
  • Publication number: 20040261520
    Abstract: A mass flowmeter of the thermal type, comprising a planar, thin substrate with a sensing surface that can be brought into direct or indirect contact with a flowing fluid during a measurement, wherein electrically controllable heating means and temperature sensor means for determining a temperature difference are provided on the sensing surface by a planar technique. The substrate with its sensing surface is present in particular in a cavity of a module into which a feed line and a drain line for the fluid issue.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 10, 2004
    Publication date: December 30, 2004
    Applicant: BERKIN B.V.
    Inventor: Joost Conrad Lotters
  • Publication number: 20040261521
    Abstract: A flow sensor, in particular an air mass sensor, in which two heating resistors are used and a temperature sensor is assigned to each of these heating resistors. This makes more accurate and rapid measurement of the mass of air possible.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 21, 2004
    Publication date: December 30, 2004
    Inventors: Hans Hecht, Matthias Fuertsch, Heribert Weber, Klaus Reymann, Uwe Konzelmann
  • Publication number: 20040261522
    Abstract: Apparatus and methods for isolating a component of a microfluidic analytical system are provided. An isolation manifold including a housing is used to isolate a sensitive component of a microfluidic analytical system from environmental noise and interference, such as mechanical vibrations and the like. The housing of the manifold includes an interior portion and a recess adapted to receive at least a portion the component to be isolated, such as a flow sensor. The housing has openings which allow for fluid communication through the housing to tubing used to connect the component to the analytical system. A potting agent can be used to help secure the component in place within the housing and to help minimize the potential for damage to the component.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 8, 2004
    Publication date: December 30, 2004
    Inventors: Thomas C. Dykas, Michael L. Bailey, Nathaniel E. Nienhuis
  • Publication number: 20040261523
    Abstract: A fluid meter, in particular a water meter, comprises a tank having a bottom and into which is inserted through an opening opposite the bottom in an insertion direction parallel to its axis of symmetry a measurement chamber having at least one orifice connected in a sealed manner to a pipe of the tank via a seal that is adapted to be compressed between an external surface of the chamber and an internal surface of the tank. The seal consists of a bead of polymerizable plastic material deposited onto one of the surfaces.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 1, 2004
    Publication date: December 30, 2004
    Inventor: Gilles Cognot
  • Publication number: 20040261524
    Abstract: Devices and methods are disclosed for sensing the level of a fluid in a reservoir. The device comprises a generator for generating symmetrical pulses of electric potential, a ground generator in communication with the above generator, means for sensing resistance, and a latch circuit in communication with the above means for sensing resistance. In a method of the invention, a first electric potential is applied to an electrode within the reservoir. The first electric potential has a predetermined value and duration. The resistance of fluid within the reservoir is measured during application of the first electric potential. A second electric potential is applied to the electrode after the measurement for a period of time substantially equivalent to the duration of the first electric potential and of a value substantially equivalent to and opposite to the predetermined value of the first electric potential.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 25, 2003
    Publication date: December 30, 2004
    Inventor: William G. Chesk
  • Publication number: 20040261525
    Abstract: A detector for detecting the volume of fuel in a fuel tank includes a float for floating on the surface of the fuel, a magnetically conductive member, a magnet, and a sensor for sensing the strength of a magnetic field. The field from the magnet passes through the magnetically conductive member and the sensor is positioned near an outer surface of the magnetically conductive member where it can detect a portion of the field passing through the magnetically conductive member. An arm connects the float to one of the magnetically conductive member and the sensor for moving the one relative to the other. The shape of the magnetically conductive member is a function of the volume of fuel in the tank and the strength of the portion of the magnetic field detected by the sensor is proportional to the fuel in the tank. An output from the sensor controls an indicator that provides a measurement of the fuel in the tank.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 24, 2003
    Publication date: December 30, 2004
    Inventor: Jack Chen
  • Publication number: 20040261526
    Abstract: A method of operating an aluminum oxide moisture sensor to measure moisture in a sample gas, where the sensor comprises a pair of electrodes sandwiched about a dielectric, the method comprising: a) heating the sensor to a first temperature above the sample gas temperature and holding the sensor at said first temperature for a first predetermined period of time; b) cooling down the sensor to a second lower temperature over a second predetermined period of time; c) taking plural samples of sensor conductance over a third predetermined period of time at the lower temperature; and d) determining a rate of adsorption of the moisture and using the rate of adsorption as a measure of moisture in the sample gas.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 25, 2003
    Publication date: December 30, 2004
    Inventor: John McKinley Poole
  • Publication number: 20040261527
    Abstract: The invention relates to an apparatus for measuring the relative difficulty in donning of a glove. The apparatus contains a glove mount for holding a glove to be tested in an open donnable position and a device for measuring the effort associated with donning the glove. The invention also relates to a method for measuring the effort associated with donning a glove by providing a testing apparatus having a glove mount and a device for measuring effort associated with donning of a glove, mounting a glove for testing on the glove mount so the glove is open and donnable, initializing the testing apparatus, and acquiring data from the device relating to the effort associated with donning of the glove.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 26, 2003
    Publication date: December 30, 2004
    Inventors: Nancy H. Puckett, Timothy Wilson Reader, Wade R. Thompson, Thomas Gregory Triebes, Audra S. Wright, Mark T. Pamperin, Joel Brostin
  • Publication number: 20040261528
    Abstract: The process meter comprises a sensor that can be mounted in a wall of a vessel for holding or conveying a process medium, and a meter-electronics case mechanically coupled to the sensor. In operation, the electronics case is at least intermittently subjected to vibrations either generated in the sensor itself or transmitted via the sensor. To reduce amplitudes of such vibrations of the electronics case, at least one vibration absorber is affixed to a wall of the electronics case. This vibration absorber is vibrated at least intermittently in order to dissipate vibrational energy taken into the electronic case. By the suppression of such case vibrations, spurious components in the measurement signal can be reduced to the point that a significant improvement in signal-to-noise ratio is obtained.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 27, 2003
    Publication date: December 30, 2004
    Inventors: Wolfgang Drahm, Helmut Zeislmeier, Alfred Rieder, Gabriele Frohlich
  • Publication number: 20040261529
    Abstract: A semiconductor acceleration sensor comprises: a frame having an opening inside thereof; flexible beams extending from the frame to the inside of the opening of the frame; a weight suspended from and supported by the beams so that the weight can freely move; piezoresistors to be mounted on the beams and to vary the resistance values in response to accelerations which work on the piezoresistors. The frame comprises damper plate portions, each of which covers a part of the opening spanning from a corner portion of two neighboring sides of the frame on the side of the opening to the inside of the opening, and each of which serves serve as a stopper to limit movement of the weight. The weight has corner portions which face the corner portions, respectively, and each of which is chamfered to have a shape of arc or a polygonal line consisting of at least three sides as seen in plan view.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 16, 2004
    Publication date: December 30, 2004
    Applicant: Matsushita Electric Works, Ltd.
    Inventors: Hitoshi Yoshida, Kazushi Kataoka, Hisakazu Miyajima, Sumio Akai, Daisuke Wakabayashi, Koji Goto, Makoto Morii
  • Publication number: 20040261530
    Abstract: The porosity of a workpiece, in particular a workpiece made of a fiber composite material is determined. An ultrasonic signal is injected into the workpiece and an ultrasonic echo signal is received from the workpiece. The variation of the amplitude of the ultrasonic echo signal with respect to the depth is used as a measure of the porosity of the workpiece material at the respective depth.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 28, 2004
    Publication date: December 30, 2004
    Applicant: intelligeNDT Systems & Services GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventor: Rainer Meier
  • Publication number: 20040261531
    Abstract: A method and system for analyzing hydraulic turbine noise vibrations involves recording the noise of a hydraulic turbine either during operation or intentionally produced for testing from a remote site. A standard laptop computer is utilized by personnel at the turbine site to record the sound at different power outputs as specified by turbine experts with a standard Windows sound recording program that produce sound files. The sound files are compressed at the site and sent to the expert office location via Email. Once received at the expert location, the sound files are uncompressed and analyzed immediately by the turbine experts without the experts having had to travel to the remote site. The analysis is done with a software sound analyzer. The analyzed signals are used to diagnose the machine and address any unusual recorded noise.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 30, 2003
    Publication date: December 30, 2004
    Applicant: General Electric Canada Inc.
    Inventors: Andre Coutu, Stuart Thomas Coulson, Daniel Proulx
  • Publication number: 20040261532
    Abstract: A measurement method and apparatus for measuring the thickness of a layered material such as a co-injection preform to be used in injection molding or blow molding of articles. One exemplary method includes applying a killing function to reduce the ringing associated with projection and measuring of wave energy. A second exemplary method includes summing characteristic function to determine the thickness of the core.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 19, 2004
    Publication date: December 30, 2004
    Applicant: Kortec, Inc.
    Inventors: Douglas Sabin, Paul Gurrisi
  • Publication number: 20040261533
    Abstract: A system and method for determining at least one parameter related to a train traversing on a railway track is provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 27, 2003
    Publication date: December 30, 2004
    Applicant: General Electric Company
    Inventors: David Michael Davenport, Nick Andrew Van Stralen, Thomas James Batzinger, Robert Snee Gilmore, Paul Kenneth Houpt
  • Publication number: 20040261534
    Abstract: An optical noninvasive pressure sensing assembly capable of accurately indicating relatively minute pressure changes. The present invention generally includes a light source, such as a Light Emitting Diode (LED) or normal room illumination, positioned to reflected light off of a surface of a membrane. The membrane is in contact with the fluid in which the pressure is to be measured so that changes in the pressure in the fluid cause movement of the membrane. A charge coupling device (CCD) camera captures light reflected off of the membrane and the reflected light is analyzed to determine the relative movement of the membrane based on the change in the pattern of the reflected light.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 30, 2003
    Publication date: December 30, 2004
    Inventors: Mikhail Boukhny, Xiaoxiao Zhang
  • Publication number: 20040261535
    Abstract: A novel method for interconnecting leads in a high pressure transducer without the use of solder employs a ceramic disc containing a number of through holes. Each hole has a tube inserted therein, which tubes are connected to the disc by brazing or a high temperature attachment. Each tube protrudes from both sides of the ceramic. The ceramic is coated in appropriate areas with molymanganese film, which is over plated with gold. This overcoat forms a brazed compound surface attached to the tubes of the ceramic. A semiconductor pressure transducer has output leads which are inserted through the ceramic into each tube. The other side end of the tube receives high temperature wires from a suitable connecting device. Each tube is then crimped and spot-welded to hold both the lead from the transducer and the high temperature leads to produce a strong bond without the use of solder. The header itself it typically welded to a pressure point.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 30, 2003
    Publication date: December 30, 2004
    Inventors: Anthony D. Kurtz, Scott J. Goodman
  • Publication number: 20040261536
    Abstract: The present invention concerns a sensor diaphragm comprising a plurality of diaphragm layers which are arranged in sandwich-like mutually superposed relationship and which include a conveyor or separating diaphragm (1), a first electrically conductive diaphragm layer (2) arranged therebeneath, an electrically insulating diaphragm layer (3) arranged therebeneath and a second electrically conductive diaphragm layer (4) arranged therebeneath, wherein the first and second conductive diaphragm layers (2, 4) are separated from each other and electrically insulated by the electrically insulating diaphragm layer (3) and the second electrically conductive diaphragm layer (4) has portions (7) which engage through openings (5) in the electrically insulating diaphragm layer (3) and through openings (6) in the first electrically conductive diaphragm layer (2) and the electrically insulating diaphragm layer (3) has portions (12) which engage through the openings (5) in the first conductive diaphragm layer.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 19, 2004
    Publication date: December 30, 2004
    Applicant: ProMinent Dosiertechnik GmbH
    Inventor: Rainer Weisbrodt
  • Publication number: 20040261537
    Abstract: An instrument mounting system for repeatable field testing of equipment or other test object, comprising a frame and an inner surface defined at least in part by the frame. Exactly three object contact points are disposed upon the inner surface, the three object contact points defining a plane.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 19, 2004
    Publication date: December 30, 2004
    Inventors: Christopher P. Smith, David E. Morlan, Paul G. Anderson
  • Publication number: 20040261538
    Abstract: An acoustic flow meter in the form of a valve key has an acoustic sensor 12 for measuring the peak sound level which occurs when the key is used to close a valve in a fluid pipeline. The peak sound level can be used to accurately calculate the flow through the valve and provide the flow information on a display unit 11. Parameters for the upstream supply pressure, pipe diameter and valve characteristics can be entered to ensure the accuracy of the flow calculations. The key therefore provides a way of determining fluid flow in a pipeline to a reasonable level of accuracy without having to install in-line flow meters.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 29, 2004
    Publication date: December 30, 2004
    Inventor: Arthur Arscott
  • Publication number: 20040261539
    Abstract: For the purpose of solving the above problems, the present invention includes: transmission/reception means provided in a flow path for performing transmission/reception using a state change of fluid; repetition means for repeating the transmission/reception; time measurement means for measuring a time of propagation repeated by the repetition means; flow rate detection means for detecting a flow rate based on a value of the time measurement means; and number-of-times change means for changing to a predetermined number of repetition times. With such a structure, an influence caused by a variation of a flow can be suppressed by changing the number of repetition times so as to be suitable for a variation. As a result, reliable flow rate measurement with a high accuracy can be achieved.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 19, 2004
    Publication date: December 30, 2004
    Applicant: MATSUSHITA ELECTRIC INDUSTRIAL CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Yasuhiro UMEKAGE, Yukio NAGAOKA, Osamu EGUCHI, Shuji ABE, Yuji NAKABAYASHI, Kenzo OHJI, Fumikazu SHIBA, Akihisa ADACHI, Masahiko HASHIMOTO, Toshiharu SATO, Yuji FUJII
  • Publication number: 20040261540
    Abstract: A method to linearly measure the flow of a gas in ducts, and a gas flow sensor using such a method are disclosed. In order to obtain a linear ratio between the differential pressure and the volumetric flow of a gas, a rectangular section elbow and a rectangular flexible plate located inside the elbow are used. When the flow goes through the duct linearization is obtained by combining the resistance of the duct and a variable-area obstruction caused by the plate. With linearization, it is possible to expand the measurement range of the gas flow in one duct. The sensor developed is used especially for the measurement of respiratory flow in medical applications.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 24, 2003
    Publication date: December 30, 2004
    Inventor: Claudio Bruno Castillon Levano
  • Publication number: 20040261541
    Abstract: A mass flow rate measuring process measures the pressure on a mass flow rate measuring device. The mass flow rate measuring device works on the Coriolis principle and has a measuring line whereby a tension sensor is provided and the tension sensor is attached to the measuring line in such a way that the mechanical tension of the measuring line can be recorded with the tension sensor. A pressure signal output facility is also provided, the tension sensor is connected with the pressure signal output facility for transmitting a tension signal thereto and a pressure signal ascertained on the basis of the tension signal is outputtable by the pressure signal output facility. In this way, a Coriolis mass flow rate measuring device is provided, with which an additional parameter, i.e. the pressure of the medium flowing through the measuring line, can be recorded.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 22, 2003
    Publication date: December 30, 2004
    Inventor: Yousif A. Hussain
  • Publication number: 20040261542
    Abstract: An electronic torsional tool includes a main body, and a strain gauge mounted in the main body. The main body is provided with an opening to enhance flexibility of the main body and to increase deformation of the strain gauge. The opening is extended through the handle portion and the drive portion of the main body, thereby enhancing deformation of the main body, and thereby increasing deformation (or distortion) of the strain gauge, so as to detect and obtain the torsion values exactly.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 25, 2003
    Publication date: December 30, 2004
    Inventor: Chih-Ching Hsien
  • Publication number: 20040261543
    Abstract: Measurement device (1) for measuring the axial and/or radial load on a bearing (10) comprising an inner ring (11), an outer ring (12) and a plurality of rolling elements (13) between the inner and outer ring. The measurement device (1) comprises a sensor ring (3) which may be positioned adjacent to and in close contact with the inner ring (11) or outer ring (12) of the bearing (10), the sensor ring (3) having at least one weakening (2) at its circumference and at least one sensor (5) being positioned in the at least one weakening (2).
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 23, 2003
    Publication date: December 30, 2004
    Inventors: Bernardus Gerardus Van Leeuwen, Eduardus Gerardys Maria Holweg, Frank Wit, Erik Zaaijer, Simon Ballegooij
  • Publication number: 20040261544
    Abstract: A force sensor for measuring force and/or torque about a single axis or multiple axes is rugged, inexpensive and can be fabricated over a wide range of sizes. The force sensor includes first and second members that are coupled to each other by an elastomeric flexure that allows at least one member to be movable with respect to the other member when a force is applied. The force sensor includes a transmitting coil or printed circuit trace and a receiving coil or printed circuit trace. In one embodiment, the transmitting and receiving coils are formed on different ones of the first and second members. In another embodiment, the transmitting and receiving coils are formed on the same member and the other member is formed as a shading plate. A signal applied to the transmitting coil induces a signal in the receiving coil that represents the force applied.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 20, 2004
    Publication date: December 30, 2004
    Applicant: Northwestern Universtiy
    Inventor: Michael A. Peshkin
  • Publication number: 20040261545
    Abstract: A driving mechanism includes a motor and a wave gear device. Three sets of torque sensors are attached at intervals of 120° on a diaphragm of a flexible external gear of the wave gear device. In the rotational angle detecting part of the signal processing circuit, signal components that are included in the outputs of the torque sensors, that vary in the form of two cycles of a sine wave per rotation of the wave generator and are synchronous with a rotational angle of the wave generator are extracted and a coordinate transformation is carried out for the obtained three-phase sinusoidal signals to calculate two-phase sinusoidal signals that are 90° out of phase, with the rotational angle of the wave generator being calculated based on these signals. Without providing a rotational angle detector separately, it is possible to detect the rotational angle of the wave generator using the outputs of the torque sensors.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 20, 2004
    Publication date: December 30, 2004
    Applicant: Harmonic Drive Systems Inc.
    Inventors: Naoki Kanayama, Masashi Horiuchi
  • Publication number: 20040261546
    Abstract: For simpler manufacture of a rotation angle sensor and to utilize as much of its angle expansion as possible, the partial stator elements are in the shape of a partial ring split into a large partial stator element (22.1) and a small partial stator element (22.2) with tangentially arranged spacing openings (4, 5) located between them. The large partial stator element (22.1) covers a range of greater than 180° and the small partial stator element a range of less than 180° of a circular arc. The large and small stator elements (22.1, 22.2) are at least partially molded into one of the parts made of a magnetically non-conducting material. A magnet element consists of two magnetically bipolar partial magnet segment elements that are essentially of the same length and cover 90° or more of a circular arc.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 11, 2003
    Publication date: December 30, 2004
    Inventor: Klaus Wilczek
  • Publication number: 20040261547
    Abstract: Method, apparatus and article of manufacture for detecting a physical condition in a pipeline. In one aspect, there is provided a method of detecting a physical condition in a pipeline by obtaining vibration data from the pipeline which is representative of the physical condition. In one embodiment, physical condition is any corrosion in the pipeline.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 30, 2003
    Publication date: December 30, 2004
    Inventors: David Alexander Russell, Gordon Campbell Short
  • Publication number: 20040261548
    Abstract: A test fixture includes a weighted frame incorporating air-filled bellow feet for simulating a vehicle suspension and tires. A hood-simulating support is pivoted to the frame and includes a mount for a grille. A shock absorber on the frame rapidly decelerates the support as the support reaches the closed position. An actuator is operably connected to a controller for closing the support at predetermined speeds for simulating stresses and forces on the grille as seen on actual vehicles. The combination simulates hood closure, including vehicle “bounce” upon hood closure. The controller can be programmed to provide different closure speeds and different air pressures in the feet for better simulation of particular vehicle models. In one form, the fixture includes an enclosure for controlling a temperature of an air fluid source and air for operating the actuator.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 26, 2003
    Publication date: December 30, 2004
    Inventor: Robert E. Shea
  • Publication number: 20040261549
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for an envelope that includes a first portion of material, forming a first surface, a second portion of material, forming a second surface, the second portion being connected to the first portion at selected regions and a third portion of material, connected to the first portion and adapted to contact the second portion, the third portion having a flap that is removable to provide access to an aperture. The flap is fabricated from the same material as the third portion of material. A perforation located in proximity to the flap and adapted to facilitate opening of the envelope.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 27, 2003
    Publication date: December 30, 2004
    Inventors: Pradeep K. Das, David W. Spencer, Ronald P. Sansone
  • Publication number: 20040261550
    Abstract: A substrate is supported by planes of four substrate supporters arranged on the top surface of a transport arm. Three ultrasonic distance measuring sensors are fixed on a fixing base arranged above the substrate. The three ultrasonic distance measuring sensors are arranged to measure the distances to the top surface of the substrate in the vicinity of its periphery. In this case, the ultrasonic distance measuring sensors are positioned so that measurement values of the ultrasonic distance measuring sensors may become equal to each other with the substrate being normally supported. The ultrasonic distance measuring sensors each measure the distances to the top surface of the substrate to supply the measurement values to a controller.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 2, 2004
    Publication date: December 30, 2004
    Applicant: Dainippon Screen Mfg. Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Fuminori Asa
  • Publication number: 20040261551
    Abstract: The load element state detecting portion 72 detects the completion of the filling of the hydraulic oil into the clutch 62 and the working limit of the accumulator 64 on the basis of the displacement of the spool valve element 42. That is, since the completion of the filling of the hydraulic oil into the clutch and the working limit of the accumulator 64 are directly detected, so that the completion of the filling of the hydraulic oil into the clutch 62 and the working limit of the accumulator 64 can be detected with high precision regardless of differences among products and the time-lapse variation. Furthermore, they can be detected without equipping any special device to the hydraulic control circuit, and thus there is an advantage that the device construction is simple.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 25, 2004
    Publication date: December 30, 2004
    Applicant: TOYOTA JIDOSHA KABUSHIKI KAISHA
    Inventors: Takaaki Tokura, Katsumi Kono, Tomohiro Asami, Nobufusa Kobayashi, Hideki Takamatsu, Norimi Asahara, Shu Asami, Ryoichi Hibino, Hiroyuki Nishizawa, Masataka Osawa