Patents Issued in June 22, 2006
  • Publication number: 20060130558
    Abstract: This invention discloses a method and an apparatus for rapidly preprocessing and analyzing chemical substances, which places a vaporization bottle containing a sample inside a microwave device and uses a magneton driving device to drive the magneton inside the vaporization bottle to rotate as to stir the sample liquid even. In the meantime, the radiation of the electromagnetic wave of the microwave device is used to activate the molecules of the sample liquid to move and cause the testing chemical substance in the sample liquid to be vaporized in a very short time. Therefore, the testing chemical substance can be absorbed or adsorbed by the absorbing medium to greatly reduce the sample preprocessing time and increase the sample quantity of the testing chemical substance. The invention can lower the detection limits of testing chemical substance without using organic solvents.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 17, 2004
    Publication date: June 22, 2006
    Inventor: Jen-Fon Jen
  • Publication number: 20060130559
    Abstract: A dry testing method for glove (10) made with an air permeable, waterproof material (16). The stem (22) of a tee fitting (24) is connected to an air pump (20) source. A mouth (30) of the glove is tightly attached to one end (32) of the fitting so no air can escape through the mouth. An airflow meter (26) or air pressure gauge connects to another end (28) of the fitting. When the air pump is running, the glove inflates with air and a backpressure is created. The flow meter is read to determine the backpressure level in the inflated glove, the glove being accepted if the meter registers at least a predetermined value indicating the glove does not leak water, but the glove being rejected if the meter reading is less than the predetermined value.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 21, 2004
    Publication date: June 22, 2006
    Inventors: James Doehla, James Wagner
  • Publication number: 20060130560
    Abstract: A leak diagnostic strategy for an engine equipped with a high pressure common rail fuel system includes a plurality of separate leak lines. Each of the leak lines is constructed and positioned to capture fuel leaking from one of several different high pressure spaces associated with the fuel system. Once a leak is detected, the location of the leak can be diagnosed by opening different leak diagnostic ports until fuel is evacuated from the system. Each of the leak diagnostic ports is associated with one of the leak lines. The system allows for quick determination of a leak location without cumbersome testing or partial dismantlement of engine related subsystems and components.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 22, 2003
    Publication date: June 22, 2006
    Inventor: David Shamine
  • Publication number: 20060130561
    Abstract: The invention comprises a method for controlling quality in a piping system, including a valve and a piping structure coupled to the valve. The method comprises the following: pressurize the piping structure with a gas at greater than sea-level pressure; seal the gas in the piping structure with the valve; determine whether the gas stays within the piping structure; determine that gas leaks from the piping structure; and identify the location of a leak from the piping structure. The invention further comprises a method for identifying a component. The method comprises the following: indicate identification information on a tag regarding the piping structure; and attach the tag to the piping structure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 2, 2004
    Publication date: June 22, 2006
    Inventor: John Karamanos
  • Publication number: 20060130562
    Abstract: A miniaturized sensor device comprises at least one pair of active projecting elements or cantilevers, which are set parallel to one another and at a micrometric or sub-micrometric distance apart and are designed to be submerged at least partially in a fluid. Each pair comprises a first cantilever, equipped with actuator means, and a second cantilever, equipped with sensor means. The actuator means can cause a movement of the first cantilever, whilst the sensor means can detect a movement of the second cantilever, induced by the movement of the first cantilever, for generating accordingly a measurable signal, which represents the lubricating capacity of the fluid.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 21, 2005
    Publication date: June 22, 2006
    Applicant: C.R.F. Societa Consortile per Azioni
    Inventors: Marco Pidria, Marco Pizzi, Paolo Faraldi, Edoardo Merlone Borla, Silvio Corrias, Gianfranco Innocenti
  • Publication number: 20060130563
    Abstract: The invention relates to a method of estimating the flow restart conditions of a paraffinic hydrocarbon in a pipe, wherein the following stages are carried out: selecting a Theological model, determining the temperature and shear stress fields in the steady hydrocarbon flow, evaluating the conductive thermal exchanges during circulation standstill phases, from the steady flow temperatures and the standstill time taken into account, selecting various sections of the pipe and recording the thermomechanical scenarios undergone by the hydrocarbon in these sections, experimentally measuring the Theological parameters of the model on a sample of the hydrocarbon, according to each one of said scenarios, and taking into account these experimental measurements to evaluate the value of the pressure that restarts circulation of the paraffinic hydrocarbon in the pipe.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 8, 2005
    Publication date: June 22, 2006
    Inventors: Anthony Wachs, Francoise Brucy, Isabelle Henaut
  • Publication number: 20060130564
    Abstract: A test method is described for comparing the relative affinity of products for a target substance using a substrate ordinarily and visibly sensitive to the products. The test method is useful in one embodiment for comparing the ability of harsh cleansers to remove fatty acids from the skin with mild cleansers that do not remove fatty acids to the same extent using a visually compelling substrate such as a fresh cut flower.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 22, 2004
    Publication date: June 22, 2006
    Inventors: Michael Massaro, Douglas Eli, Thomas Morikis, Christine Kennedy
  • Publication number: 20060130565
    Abstract: The present invention provides for a method for detecting the presence of isocyanate in a sample by (a) contacting an isocyanate derivatizing agent with a sample under conditions suitable to the formation of a reaction product capable of detection and (b) detecting the presence or absence of the reaction product as an indication of the presence or absence of isocyanate in said sample. The present invention also provides a method of quantifying the total isocyanate presence by quantifying the reaction product An organic compound useful for detecting the total quantity of isocyanate in an environmental sample is disclosed. The compound is 1,8-diaminonaphthalene (DAN), a bifunctional nucleophilic derivatizing agent. Methods for detecting a particular isocyanate monomer or the total isocyanate in environmental samples using DAN and related isocyanate derivatizing agents are provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 1, 2003
    Publication date: June 22, 2006
    Inventors: Robert Streicher, Dhimiter Bello, Susan Woskie, Ardith Grote
  • Publication number: 20060130566
    Abstract: A hardness testing device includes an elongated guiding tube, a test member, an impact actuator, and a transducer. The elongated guiding member has a bottom impact opening for contacting with the work piece surface and a coil seat integrally provided on an outer circumferential surface of the guiding tube at a position close to the impact opening. The impact actuator is provided on an upper portion of the guiding tube for applying an impact force against the test member which is then driven to travel within the guiding tube at an impinging velocity and a rebound velocity. The transducer includes an electric coil coaxially wound on the coil seat, and is adapted to electromagnetically communicate with the test member for detecting the impinging velocity and the rebound velocity when the test member slidably passes through the coil seat so as to determine a hardness of the work piece surface.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 16, 2004
    Publication date: June 22, 2006
    Inventor: Shaoming Wu
  • Publication number: 20060130567
    Abstract: An apparatus for testing the brakes, wheel alignment, suspension, transmission, and engine of motorized wheeled vehicles, includes means such as a dynamometer for self-calibration. A platform supports a road vehicle to be tested. Two or four pairs of short high-inertia rollers are revolvably supported adjacent to said platform, and positioned to individually support either the front wheels or the back wheels of the vehicle. The rollers are drivable by a stationary vehicle resting thereon, each pair of high-inertia rollers supporting one vehicle wheel. A floating roller contacts the wheel to detect side forces. Sensor means are connected to the rollers and data processing, display and recording means are connected to the sensors. Speed of the rollers is monitored by an encoder having a resolution of at least 1000 pulses/sec. A preferred embodiment of the apparatus includes electric motors which can be connected to drive the rollers.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 8, 2005
    Publication date: June 22, 2006
    Inventor: Yona Ben-David
  • Publication number: 20060130568
    Abstract: A fuel vapor purge system is configured to execute a highly accurate leak diagnosis with respect to a fuel vapor leak. After the engine is stopped, the temperature of the fuel vapor rises temporarily and then decreases until it reaches the outside ambient temperature. During this period, the purge line is closed off and a minimum value reached by the purge line pressure is detected. The difference between the minimum value of the purge line pressure and the atmospheric pressure is compared to a threshold value. The purge system is diagnosed as “normal” if the difference is equal to or larger than the threshold value and a “leaking” if the difference is less than the threshold value.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 31, 2005
    Publication date: June 22, 2006
    Applicant: Nissan Motor Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Hiroya Ishii, Takeshi Tsuyuki, Takane Hayashi
  • Publication number: 20060130569
    Abstract: A device and a method for determining pressure fluctuations in a fuel supply system provide two signal filters to enable determining as much information about pressure fluctuations as possible with minimal sensor use. A sensor signal which is characteristic of a pressure in the area of a fuel injector is filtered using the two filters, which have filter characteristics that differ from one another.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 16, 2005
    Publication date: June 22, 2006
    Inventors: Jochen Walther, Oliver Schulz, Oliver Becker
  • Publication number: 20060130570
    Abstract: A tire pressure control system for determining and/or monitoring a pressure in an air-filled tire of a vehicle uses a pressure-measuring device located in the tire. The tire pressure control system includes a seat diagnosis module for checking whether the pressure-measuring device is fastened in the tire.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 18, 2005
    Publication date: June 22, 2006
    Inventors: Peter Anders, Klaus-Jurgen Gier
  • Publication number: 20060130571
    Abstract: A sensor housing assembly for mounting a tire pressure sensor module within the pressurized cavity of a wheel and tire assembly includes a central housing that includes a housing bottom and defines a cavity therein. A bobbin cover is coupled to the central housing. The bobbin cover and the central housing are mountable to a mounting surface on the wheel. The bobbin cover and the central housing bottom include curved mounting surfaces that are complementary to a curvature of the mounting surface on the wheel. At least one bobbin assembly is received in the bobbin cover. The bobbin assembly is substantially straight and coupled to the central housing at a downward angle toward the wheel.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 22, 2004
    Publication date: June 22, 2006
    Inventors: Roger Thrush, Eric Laurer, Steven Eaton
  • Publication number: 20060130572
    Abstract: A tank mass measuring assembly (10) for monitoring an amount of a fluid (20) stored in a tank (12). The monitoring assembly includes a mass measurement chamber (42) adapted to be located remotely of a tank and adapted to be coupled in fluid communication with the tank to receive a portion of a fluid stored in the tank. The monitoring assembly further includes a sensor assembly (16) at least partially disposed in the mass measurement chamber, the sensor assembly adapted to measure a mass of the fluid disposed in the mass measurement chamber. The sensor assembly is adapted to relay the measured mass to a computation device (90) for determining the amount of the fluid in the tank based upon the measured mass of the fluid disposed in the mass measurement chamber.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 16, 2004
    Publication date: June 22, 2006
    Inventor: Charles Northrop
  • Publication number: 20060130573
    Abstract: An apparatus for determining fluid-pressure diffusivity in a borehole (12) in a formation (10) includes an electrode (16) and a strain measuring device (18),(20) (or a particle velocity measuring device (18),(20) or a particle acceleration measuring device (18),(20)) disposed a fixed distance from the electrode (16). The electrode (16) injects an electrical current into a point on a wall of the borehole (12). The strain measuring device (18),(20) measures strain (or the particle velocity measuring device (18),(20) measuresd particle velocity or the particle acceleration measuring device (18),(20) measures particle acceleration) at the fixed distance from the point of injection of the electrical current over time. The fluid-pressure diffusivity is determined based on the measured strain (or measured particle velocity or measured particle acceleration) over time.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 16, 2004
    Publication date: June 22, 2006
    Inventors: Marwan Charara, Steven Pride, Patrice Ligneul
  • Publication number: 20060130574
    Abstract: The system includes a fuel sender and a controller. The fuel sender has a variable resistance and the variable resistance varies based on the quantity of fuel in the fuel tank. The controller is in electrical communication with the fuel sender. Further, the controller includes a voltage input for sensing a voltage across the fuel sender, and a voltage output that provides a biasing voltage to the fuel sender. The biasing voltage causes the voltage across the fuel sender to vary with relationship to the variable resistance of the fuel sender. Further, the voltage output is in communication with a circuit that is configured to alternate a direction of current flow through the fuel sender based on the voltage output. By alternating the direction of current flow through the fuel sender, corrosion to the fuel sender due to a reaction with the fuel is minimized.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 17, 2004
    Publication date: June 22, 2006
    Inventor: Charles Weber
  • Publication number: 20060130575
    Abstract: The present invention provides devices and methods for reducing or eliminating sources of systematic errors in the measurement of absolute gravity or gravity field gradients; specifically, an improved test mass for an interferometer is disclosed that reduces the influence of nearby electromagnetic fields on a freefalling test mass.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 22, 2005
    Publication date: June 22, 2006
    Inventors: Timothy Niebauer, Ryan Billson, Fred Klopping, Jess Valentine, Derek van Westrum
  • Publication number: 20060130576
    Abstract: An improved and simplified balancing machine comprising upright supports devices to hold the workpiece to be balanced, a motor and mount to spin the workpiece, and a system to detect and measure imbalance in the workpiece when it is rotated at speed. Said machine configured to be attached to a machine tool or work table without losing functional integrity, thereby eliminating the need for a massive base. Specific preferred structural embodiments are disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 6, 2004
    Publication date: June 22, 2006
    Inventors: William Turner, Warren Turner, Judith Turner
  • Publication number: 20060130577
    Abstract: A acceleration sensor includes a supporting part, a beam part connected to the supporting part, a weight part connected to the beam part, and a protruding part formed beneath the beam part so that the protruding part supports the beam part. With such an arrangement, the adjustment of the sensitivity of the acceleration sensor can be easily performed, as well as the evaluation of the acceleration sensor.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 7, 2005
    Publication date: June 22, 2006
    Inventor: Takayuki Kai
  • Publication number: 20060130578
    Abstract: The invention concerns a transducer for measuring an angular velocity formed by a single piezoelectric tuning fork (21) that rotates at said angular velocity. The tuning fork includes two vibrating legs(23, 24) extending from a base (22), means (25a, 25b, 26a, 26b) exciting a first vibration of the tuning fork, arranged on the excitation leg (23), and means (27a, 27b, 28a, 28b) detecting a second vibration of the tuning fork generated in response to the first vibration and to a rotation of the tuning fork, arranged on the detection leg (24). The detection leg has a cross-shaped section including two top lateral faces (33, 34) and two bottom lateral faces (37, 38), separated by protruding parts (41, 42) projecting with respect to said faces.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 15, 2005
    Publication date: June 22, 2006
    Inventors: Silvio Piazza, Bruno Studer
  • Publication number: 20060130579
    Abstract: The invention concerns a transducer for measuring an angular velocity formed by a single piezoelectric tuning fork (21) that rotates at said angular velocity, including first (23) and second (24) vibrating legs extending from a base (22), excitation means (25a, 25b, 26a, 26b) arranged on the excitation leg (23), detection means (27a, 27b, 28a, 28b), arranged on the detection leg (24), characterized in that the detection leg includes at least one first groove (33, 34) on the top face and at least one second groove (35, 36) on the bottom face, and in that the detection means include first and second detection electrodes arranged facing each other, the first (27a) respectively the second detection electrode (28a) being arranged on one lateral flank of the groove (33) respectively of the groove (34) such that the electrical field between the first and second detection electrodes is substantially rectilinear through the detection leg, and third and fourth detection electrodes arranged facing each other, the third
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 19, 2005
    Publication date: June 22, 2006
    Inventors: Silvio Dalla Piazza, Bruno Studer
  • Publication number: 20060130580
    Abstract: An acceleration sensor has a mass movably linked to a peripheral attachment section to which at least one stopper is attached to stop the motion of the mass in a certain direction. In the absence of acceleration, the mass rests at a distance from a first surface of the stopper. A quantity of a curable elastic adhesive on a second surface of the stopper absorbs impact of the mass on the first surface, enabling the acceleration sensor to survive mechanical shock. The curable elastic adhesive may adhere to the cover of a package in which the acceleration sensor is enclosed. The curable elastic adhesive may be applied as a drop or swath from a dispenser, which simplifies the manufacturing process and reduces the manufacturing cost.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 2, 2005
    Publication date: June 22, 2006
    Inventor: Naokatsu Ikegami
  • Publication number: 20060130581
    Abstract: The piezo-resistance type triaxial acceleration sensor includes a frame section, a mass section disposed in the frame section, beam elements which flexibly support the mass section, and piezo-resistors for the X, Y and Z axes formed on the beam elements. The length of the Z-axis piezo-resistors is longer than the length of the X-axis piezo-resistors and the Y-axis piezo-resistors, so as to decrease the sensitivity.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 21, 2005
    Publication date: June 22, 2006
    Inventor: Hironari Mori
  • Publication number: 20060130582
    Abstract: A semiconductor device includes a lead frame. The lead frame has a chip mounting section and a plurality of leads. The chip mounting section has a base section, an insulation film covering the base section, a plurality of inter-connect sections, and a chip mounting area. The leads surround the chip mounting section. The semiconductor device also includes a first semiconductor chip having a plurality of first electrode pads. The semiconductor device also includes first bonding wires for connecting the first electrode pads to the inter-connect sections. The semiconductor device also includes a second semiconductor chip which has a cavity and a plurality of second electrode pads. The first semiconductor chip and the first bonding wires are received in the cavity. Second bonding wires connect the inter-connect sections exposed from the second semiconductor chip to the leads. Third bonding wires connect the second electrode pads to the leads. The semiconductor device also includes a sealing section.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 6, 2005
    Publication date: June 22, 2006
    Inventor: Takashi Kurogi
  • Publication number: 20060130583
    Abstract: A device which includes an acceleration sensor for outputting small differential voltages VIP and VIN using resistance changes, and an output amplifier for amplifying the voltage difference. The output amplifier includes an offset-voltage adjustment circuit and an instrumentation amplifier. The instrumentation amplifier includes a first Op-amp having inputs connected to VIP and offset-voltage input terminals, a second Op-amp having inputs connected to VIN and VCOM input terminals, and a third Op-amp having inputs connected to outputs of the first and second Op-amps via resistors. The reference voltage VCOM of the instrumentation amplifier output is also applied to the second Op-amp.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 29, 2005
    Publication date: June 22, 2006
    Applicant: Oki Electric Industry Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Akira Nakayama
  • Publication number: 20060130584
    Abstract: A structure with superior shock resistance is proposed for a parasol-type acceleration sensor. The acceleration sensor comprises a support portion the lower end of which is fixed to a substrate; a beam portion on which a detection element for applying changes to an output signal in correspondence with strain caused by acceleration acting on the detection element is formed, one end of the beam portion being connected to the top part of the support portion; a suspended weight connected to the other end of the beam portion; and a stopper substrate with a window portion through which, in order to guide an output signal of the detection element via a pad that is formed on the upper end face of the support portion, a conductor lead that is connected to the pad passes. Overswing of the weight is limited by means of the stopper substrate.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 16, 2005
    Publication date: June 22, 2006
    Inventors: Masaaki Ono, Nobuko Ono, Hiroshi Ishikawa, Hiroshi Tanaka, Sumio Yamada
  • Publication number: 20060130585
    Abstract: Sensor systems and methods are disclosed herein, including a sensor chip, upon which at least two surface acoustic wave (SAW) sensing elements are centrally located on a first side (e.g., front side) of the sensor chip. The SAW sensing elements occupy a common area on the first side of the sensor chip. An etched diaphragm is located centrally on the second side (i.e., back side) of the sensor chip opposite the first side in association with the two SAW sensing elements in order to concentrate the mechanical strain of the sensor system or sensor device in the etched diagram, thereby providing high strength, high sensitivity and ease of manufacturing thereof.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 18, 2004
    Publication date: June 22, 2006
    Inventors: Steven Magee, James Cook, James Liu
  • Publication number: 20060130586
    Abstract: An ultrasound test apparatus for polymeric materials (e.g., plastic pipes) includes a low-absorption housing that at least partially encloses an ultrasound transducer, wherein the transducer emits a low frequency wide angle ultrasound beam with a narrow bandwidth. In especially preferred configurations and methods, the apparatus will detect flaws in polymeric pipes, and especially in welds or stressed zones of such pipes, wherein defects of less than 4% of the wall thickness (up to 4 inches) are detected. Further disclosed are configurations and methods for nondestructive detection of lack-of-fusion defects in polymeric pipes.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 24, 2003
    Publication date: June 22, 2006
    Inventors: Barry Messer, Matthew Yarmuch
  • Publication number: 20060130587
    Abstract: Methods and apparatus for fabricating a component is provided. The method includes receiving an ultrasound image of the component, selecting a subimage that includes a first surface of the component and an inspection area of the component, combining a filtered subimage with the selected subimage, and outputting the combined image to at least one of a display and an analyzer.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 16, 2004
    Publication date: June 22, 2006
    Inventors: Patrick Howard, Richard Klaassen
  • Publication number: 20060130588
    Abstract: A surface acoustic wave device includes a micro-machined pressure transducer for monitoring tire pressure. The device is configured having a micro-machined cavity that is sealed with a flexible conductive membrane. When an external tire pressure equivalent to the cavity pressure is detected, the membrane makes contact with ridges on the backside of the surface acoustic wave device. The ridges are electrically connected to conductive fingers of the device. When the detected pressure is correct, selected fingers on the device will be grounded producing patterned acoustic reflections to an impulse RF signal. When the external tire pressure is less than the cavity reference pressure, a reduced reflected signal to the receiver results. The sensor may further be constructed so as to identify itself by a unique reflected identification pulse series.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 23, 2006
    Publication date: June 22, 2006
    Inventors: Kent Pfeifer, Robert Williams, Robert Waldschmidt, Catherine Morgan
  • Publication number: 20060130589
    Abstract: An apparatus to scavenge energy caused by changes in interior pressure of a container, including at least one flexible chamber containing a fluid at a predetermined pressure; a piezoelectric element coupled to the flexible chamber so as to generate electricity when the flexible chamber is flexed by a change in pressure of the container.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 17, 2004
    Publication date: June 22, 2006
    Inventors: Stephen Jackson, Gregory Schmitz
  • Publication number: 20060130590
    Abstract: An ultrasonic load measurement transducer is mated with a thread-forming fastener to provide a load indicating thread-forming fastener that can be used for the precise and reliable assembly of critical bolted joints, such as those in the automobile and aerospace industries, among others. Steps can then be taken to accurately measure and control the load in the thread-forming fastener during tightening, and to inspect the load in the thread-forming fastener after assembly. A similar result can be achieved for a thread-locking fastener by mating an ultrasonic transducer with the thread-locking fastener assembly.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 31, 2006
    Publication date: June 22, 2006
    Inventors: Ian Kibblewhite, Robert Molsbergen
  • Publication number: 20060130591
    Abstract: A dislodgement sensor for use with dialysis and other blood transfusion equipment that detects when a venous needle is dislodged from a patient. The sensor includes a photosensor attached to the venous needle or to tubing attached to the venous needle, an opaque cover placed over but not attached to the photosensor, and a signal line from the photosensor to the equipment. If the venous needle is dislodged, the photosensor is withdrawn from beneath the opaque cover, exposing the photosensor to light, which causes the photosensor to send a signal to the equipment indicating that the venous needle has been dislodged. Also, a method of using such a sensor.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 18, 2005
    Publication date: June 22, 2006
    Inventor: Lenora Perkins
  • Publication number: 20060130592
    Abstract: A displacement sensing device transduces deflection of a body disposed around a conduit into complementary signals indicative of the amount of displacement experienced by the conduit. The displacement sensing device includes a cuff and a sensor disposed on an outer periphery of the cuff, and may further include a controller in communication with the sensor, such that the controller receives signals from the sensor and compares the current signals to a normal operating range. The normal operating range may be predetermined or derived based on trends, thereby allowing the controller to adapt to any product disposed within the conduit. Once the range is determined, the controller is able to discern when the product system is out of product, or operating at elevated pressures. In alternative embodiments, a pumping device or an inductor may generate a recognizable wave pattern that may be monitored to determine if the product system contains product.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 22, 2004
    Publication date: June 22, 2006
    Inventors: Thomas Chadwell, Michael Romanyszyn, John Vira
  • Publication number: 20060130593
    Abstract: Embodiments of a sensor that can be folded and stowed inside a compartment and then unfolded and deployed from the compartment for use in detecting objects laid on the ground or buried in the ground. Methods of manipulating such sensors.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 22, 2004
    Publication date: June 22, 2006
    Inventors: Les Richards, Duke Ngo, David Lang
  • Publication number: 20060130594
    Abstract: Target joint support moments of each leg are determined by estimating joint moments of the each leg necessary for the person A wearing a leg motion support orthosis (1) to make a motion independently and according to the estimated joint moments. Moreover, floor reaction forces for the support orthosis (1) to make a motion independently are estimated, and then estimated values of actual joint support moments actually applied from the support orthosis (1) to the joints of the each leg of the person (A) are found by using the estimated floor reaction forces and outputs of the force sensor (22) provided in a leg link portion (4) of the support orthosis (1). Torque generation units (15) and (16) of the support orthosis (1) are controlled in such a way that the estimated values of the actual joint support moments are coincident with the target joint support moments. Thereby, the leg motion of the person can be supported.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 15, 2005
    Publication date: June 22, 2006
    Applicant: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Yasushi Ikeuchi
  • Publication number: 20060130595
    Abstract: A load cell body for transmitting forces and moments in a plurality of directions includes an integral assembly having a first ring member and a second ring member. Each ring member has a central aperture centered on a reference axis. In one embodiment, three or more sensor assemblies extend from the first ring member to the second ring member parallel to the reference axis. Each sensor assembly includes a stiff member attached to one of the rings and extending therefrom to the other radially from the reference axis, and a flexure assembly joining a remote end of each member to the other ring member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 23, 2005
    Publication date: June 22, 2006
    Inventors: Richard Meyer, Alan Kempainen
  • Publication number: 20060130596
    Abstract: A piezoresistive device senses mechanical input and converts mechanical movement of at least two relatively movable parts into an electrical output. An SOI substrate is provided. A gap extends across a portion of the substrate. The gap defines the at least two relatively moveable parts and a flexible cross-section that connects the at least two relatively moveable parts. The cross-section is made of a same material as the substrate. At least one strain sensitive element is at a surface of the substrate. The at least one strain sensitive element has two end portions interconnected by an intermediate neck portion. The neck portion is supported on a structure that concentrates strain. The structure extends across the gap and has vertical walls extending to the cross-section in the gap. The structure is made of the same material as the substrate.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 23, 2006
    Publication date: June 22, 2006
    Inventor: Leslie Wilner
  • Publication number: 20060130597
    Abstract: A micro-tube handling device is provided and includes a lower cap-nest, wherein the lower cap-nest includes a rack cradle surrounding a rack nest opening, a tube support device, wherein the tube support device is disposed to be associated with the rack nest opening to allow the tube support device access to the lower cap-nest via the rack nest opening, a cap-lid device, wherein the cap-lid device includes a cap retainer portion disposed adjacent a plurality of a cap-lid cavities and a stripper block device, wherein the stripper block device includes a plurality of stripper block pins, wherein each of the plurality of stripper block pins are disposed to be aligned with each of the plurality of cap-lid cavities.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 10, 2005
    Publication date: June 22, 2006
    Inventors: Christopher Bernard, James Mongillo, Moneesh Chatterjee
  • Publication number: 20060130598
    Abstract: An improved method and apparatus for collecting evidence at a scene of an investigation is disclosed. In one embodiment, an improved apparatus for collecting trace evidence is disclosed. The improved evidence collecting apparatus generally comprises a handle, a roller, and a wound collecting element, wherein the wound collecting element is wound about the roller. An investigator at a scene of an investigation can roll the roller over a particular area of concern and lift trace evidence onto the wound collecting element.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 22, 2004
    Publication date: June 22, 2006
    Inventor: Cory Driessche
  • Publication number: 20060130599
    Abstract: A dilution tunnel having a flow chamber structure with an inlet, an outlet, and an internal flow passage for a sample gas, the sample gas being adapted to flow in a flow direction between the inlet and the outlet. The flow chamber structure having a plurality of pores that communicate between an outside region external of the flow chamber structure and the internal flow passage. The pores are adapted to introduce a diluting gas from the outside region into the internal flow passage. The flow chamber structure is adapted to provide a diluting rate of the dilution tunnel that varies in the flow direction of the dilution tunnel.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 14, 2006
    Publication date: June 22, 2006
    Inventor: Russell Graze
  • Publication number: 20060130600
    Abstract: A starter for automotive engines is provided which is equipped with a planetary gear train working as a speed reducer. The starter also includes a partition plate and a thrust washer. The partition plate extends radially of the starter between an electric motor and a planetary gear train to isolate the planetary gear train from a motor chamber. The thrust washer extends radially of the starter in abutment with the partition plate so as to bear a thrust load, as transmitted from the planetary gear train. The thrust washer also includes an outer peripheral portion which is placed between a rear end surface of an internal gear of the planetary gear train and the front end surface of the partition plate and has an elastic mechanism working to elastically urge the internal gear of the planetary gear train frontward in the axial direction of the starter.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 16, 2005
    Publication date: June 22, 2006
    Applicant: DENSO CORPORATION
    Inventors: Youichi Hasegawa, Sadayoshi Kajino, Hisato Inoue
  • Publication number: 20060130601
    Abstract: A powertrain system is provided that includes a first prime mover and change-gear transmission having a first input shaft and a second input shaft. A twin clutch is disposed between the first prime mover and the transmission. The twin clutch includes a first main clutch positioned between the first prime mover and the first input shaft and a second main clutch positioned between the first prime mover and the second input shaft. The powertrain system also includes a second prime mover operably connected to one of the first and second input shafts.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 30, 2003
    Publication date: June 22, 2006
    Inventor: Douglas Hughes
  • Publication number: 20060130602
    Abstract: A bicycle control apparatus comprises a first position setting member having a plurality of first positioning members with a first pitch, an operating member that rotates relative to the position setting member, and a second position setting member structured to rotate with the operating member and to move axially. The second position setting member has a plurality of second positioning members with a second pitch, wherein the first pitch is different from the second pitch. The first pitch and the second pitch are set so that an engagement pitch between a first engagement position of the second position setting member and a second engagement position of the second position setting member that results from rotation of the operating member is less than both the first pitch and the second pitch.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 21, 2004
    Publication date: June 22, 2006
    Applicant: SHIMANO, INC.
    Inventor: Tatsuya Kawakami
  • Publication number: 20060130603
    Abstract: An accelerator pedal is positioned at a kickdown position. Then, an output value of a measurement device of an accelerator pedal position sensor is measured. Thereafter, the measured output value of the measurement device is stored in a correction output value storage of the accelerator pedal position sensor along with a corresponding correction value, which is used to correct the measured output value of the measurement device. A couple of fully opened position stop members is provided and is engaged with the accelerator pedal when the accelerator pedal is rotated to a fully opened position. Furthermore, a couple of fully closed position stop members is provided and is engaged with the accelerator pedal when the accelerator pedal is rotated to a fully closed position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 15, 2006
    Publication date: June 22, 2006
    Inventors: Yasunari Kato, Masahiro Makino
  • Publication number: 20060130604
    Abstract: A device for adjusting the angular position of a control lever (3) articulator to a collar (6) applicable to one end of a handlebar (2) for motorcycles and the like, in which the collar (6) comprises a stationary portion (8) and a movable portion (11) bearing the control lever (3) and normally coupled torsionally to the stationary portion (8). The movable portion (11) can be axially moved away from the stationary portion (8), against the action of an elastic thrust member (16), to enable to rotate and hence change the angular position of the control lever (3) even with the motorcycle in motion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 20, 2004
    Publication date: June 22, 2006
    Inventor: Salvatore Volpe
  • Publication number: 20060130605
    Abstract: A bicycle front support comprises a body having a front clamp at a front end thereof; a handle of a bicycle being engaged with the front clamp; a rear end of the body having a tubular rear ring; a tightening cover located upon the rear ring; the tightening cover having a tubular shape, and an upper side of the tightening cover having thread; and a tightening ring having a ring shape and being threaded to the thread of the tightening cover. The bicycle front support makes the structure of a bicycle become stronger and have a beautiful outlook.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 21, 2004
    Publication date: June 22, 2006
    Inventor: Chao-Hu Chen
  • Publication number: 20060130606
    Abstract: A handlebar shock absorbing system for bicycles, utilizing a pair of side plates attached to a handlebar mounting bracket with rotational movement of a handlebar against a torsional spring. Where the handlebar can be adjustable for torsional spring force and/or for rotational travel and positioning of handlebar grips, either forward tilting, level or rearward tilting.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 6, 2005
    Publication date: June 22, 2006
    Inventor: Yen-Jen You
  • Publication number: 20060130607
    Abstract: A pedal includes a plate (2) fitted with elements for locking (5, 6) a cyclist's shoe (8) remarkable in that the plate (2) extends beneath the pedal pin (4), the support axis (7) of the shoe on the plate (2) extending in front of the pedal pin (4) and in that the elements for locking (5, 6) include, a front interlocking mechanism (5) co-operating with the front part of a clip (9) integral with the sole (10) of the cyclist's shoe (8), and, a movable rear interlocking mechanism (6) co-operating with its rear part and moving under the pressure of the rear part of the clip (9) from an interlocked position, and passing through an open position allowing to insert the rear part of the clip (9), until returning to the interlocking position via elastic elements (20).
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 6, 2003
    Publication date: June 22, 2006
    Inventor: Michel Garnier