Patents Issued in September 28, 2006
  • Publication number: 20060213235
    Abstract: A knitted-in slide fastener in which a continuous fastener element row can be mounted stably in its dimensional meaning and firmly while breaking of a needle is prevented, so as to secure a smooth engagement of elements, wherein the continuous fastener element row is fixed and knitted-in by a fixing chain knitting yarn at the same time when a fastener tape is knitted, the fixing chain knitting yarn for the elements is knitted into plural wales of a fastener element attaching portion on one side edge of the fastener tape, warp knitting yarns to be knitted for reinforcement are entangled with a needle loop formed by a constituent yarn of at least one of wales in a foundation structure adjoining the plural wales through their needle loops but not entangled with a needle loop of the fixing chain knitting yarn through their needle loops.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 20, 2006
    Publication date: September 28, 2006
    Inventor: Yoshio Matsuda
  • Publication number: 20060213236
    Abstract: A water treatment unit mounted in a washing machine, comprising a cartridge type case. An inflow port and an outflow port connected to a water supply port and a water receiving port formed in the washing machine are formed in the case. An electrode eluting metal ions in water by energization is disposed in the case and a connector part for supplying power to the electrode is disposed on the outer surface of the case. The case is formed slender and the inflow port and the outflow port are formed in the case, concentrically to each other, at positions near one end thereof and the connector part is disposed at a position near the other end.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 5, 2004
    Publication date: September 28, 2006
    Inventor: Hiroyuki Nomura
  • Publication number: 20060213237
    Abstract: A padlock includes a base shell, a cover shell pivoted to and openably covered on the base shell to define with the base shell a storage chamber therebetween, a shackle movably mounted in the base shell, and two combination lock sets each having a latch engagable with the base shell for locking the cover shell to the base shell, a plurality of numbered wheels extending out of through holes of the cover shell, and a movable plate actuactable by the numbered wheels to move relative to the latch for engaging or disengaging the latch to further have the latch engage or disengage with the base shell so as to lock or unlock the cover shell to the base shell.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 15, 2006
    Publication date: September 28, 2006
    Inventor: Yao-Kun Yang
  • Publication number: 20060213238
    Abstract: Disclosed is an electronic steering wheel lock for motor vehicles, comprising a rotor (5) that is rotatable within a stator (2) from an initial position and back into said initial position so as to move a locking member (3) back and forth between a steering shaft-locking position and a steering shaft-releasing position. In its initial position, said rotor (5) can be coupled in a positive manner to the stator (2) under the effect of a spring load (22) while being movable within the stator (2) in an axial direction against the effect of the spring load (22) by means of an electromagnet (7) disposed coaxially to the rotor (5) in order to cancel the mutual engagement between the rotor (5) and the stator (2) and allow the locking member (3) to be moved into the steering shaft-releasing position when the electromagnet (7) is excited with the aid of an electronic key. The rotor (5) is provided with at least one coupling dog (23) which cooperates with a coupling slot (24) of the stator (2).
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 2, 2004
    Publication date: September 28, 2006
    Inventors: Stefan Thronberens, Werner Trischberger
  • Publication number: 20060213239
    Abstract: A bayonet locking system for vending machines or the like is provided for locking and unlocking the machine preferably with a remotely controlled electronic operating device. The lock system includes at least one axially and rotationally movable bayonet that can be mounted selectively on the door of the machine and at least one receptacle receiving device disposed within the interior of the machine and positioned for engagement by the bayonet when the door is moved between an open position, an intermediate position, and a closed position. When the door is manually moved from the open position to the intermediate position, the bayonet advances into the receptacle and rotates to capture it in the receptacle. Then the bayonet axially retracts to pull the door into the closed position wherein a gasket disposed between the door and the vending machine is substantially uniformly compressed and sealed around its periphery.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 22, 2006
    Publication date: September 28, 2006
    Inventors: Calin Roatis, William Denison, Tomasz Barnas, Gary Myers
  • Publication number: 20060213240
    Abstract: The invention relates to an electromechanical lock cylinder, which interacts with evaluating electronics for recognizing an access authorization and comprises a housing that has two opposing cylindrical cavities (12). A lock core, which can be actuated by a key, or a knob shaft (11), which is joined to a knob in a rotationally fixed manner, is rotationally mounted in said cavities. The lock core and/or knob shaft (11) interact with a lock lug (13), which actuates, in particular, a bolt or latch of a door lock. When the key fits or in the event of a successful access authorization, an electromechanically driven blocking or coupling element (14) is moved out of the position of rest into an angular position, and a rotationally fixed joining between the key or knob and the lock lug (13) is effected. The invention is characterized in that the lock lug (13), when the blocking or coupling element (14) is in a position of rest, can be freely rotated relative to both lock cores or to both knob shafts (11).
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 22, 2004
    Publication date: September 28, 2006
    Applicant: BUGA TECHNOLOGIES GMBH
    Inventors: Volker Krisch, Hardy Bismark, Bernhard Mueller, Jurgen Hofmann, Bertrand Roland
  • Publication number: 20060213241
    Abstract: A combination locking tube comprising a base end cap connected to a base tube having a longitudinal channel and at least one notch contiguous with the channel, at least one locking ring having a longitudinal ring channel, a notch contiguous with the ring channel and an interlocking pin, each locking ring rotatably mounted on the base tube such that the locking ring's notch is positioned over a base tube notch, at least one indicia ring rotatably mounted on a locking ring having a plurality of characters and a plurality of teeth on its outer and inner surfaces, respectively, at least one static ring statically mounted to the base tube having an interlocking pin receptacle and an annular recess, an inner tube having an end cap and at least one pin received within the base tube.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 24, 2006
    Publication date: September 28, 2006
    Inventor: Neil Swanson
  • Publication number: 20060213242
    Abstract: A system for the detection of at least an open state of an opening of a motor vehicle and two other states of a lock of said opening, called a first state and a second state, includes two switching devices associated with the opening and the lock. One of the two switching devices includes a first contact breaker with a normally open or normally closed position detecting at least the open state of the opening. The two switching devices are connected to a ground cable. The first contact breaker detects the first state and is connected to a first information cable. The other of the two switching devices includes a second contact breaker with a position normally open or normally closed, detecting two states and is connected to a second information cable. Of the two states, one is common with the state detected by the first contact breaker. The first and second information cables are connected to analytical means.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 18, 2004
    Publication date: September 28, 2006
    Applicant: VALEO SECURITE HABITACLE
    Inventor: Lionel Roesslinger
  • Publication number: 20060213243
    Abstract: A lock having a body, a face, a shackle and an audio and/or a visual system. The audio system includes a speaker system and a controller, and the visual system includes an indicator light and a controller. The systems also employ a battery and a battery indicator light, e.g., an LED, indicating when the battery needs to be replaced. The audio system emits an audible sequence and the visual system emits a light sequence when the lock is unlocked, reminding a user to lock the lock.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 24, 2005
    Publication date: September 28, 2006
    Inventor: Sandford Bosin
  • Publication number: 20060213244
    Abstract: A method includes providing a shaft having a coupling section. The coupling section has a generally cylindrical exterior surface. The method includes applying a coating to the coupling section to form an engaging surface. The method further includes cold-forming the shaft and the coating such that a plurality of protrusions is formed in the engaging surface. The cold-forming of the shaft and the coating is performed contemporaneously.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 25, 2005
    Publication date: September 28, 2006
    Inventor: Ronald Brissette
  • Publication number: 20060213245
    Abstract: A method of preparing a sheet of material for bending along a bend line includes the step of forming at least one displacement in the thickness direction of the sheet of material, the displacement including a flat zone substantially parallel to the sheet of material with a portion of the periphery of the flat zone extending along and adjacent to the bend line, and including an angled transition zone interconnecting the flat zone with a remainder of the sheet of material. The forming step is preferably accomplished using one of a stamping process, a punching process, a roll-forming process and an embossing process. A sheet of material suitable for bending using the process also is disclosed, as are the use of coatings, shin guards and displacing the area of the sheet between bending inducing slits.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 13, 2006
    Publication date: September 28, 2006
    Applicant: Industrial Origami, LLC
    Inventor: Max Durney
  • Publication number: 20060213246
    Abstract: A process of producing an inner profile (18) in a tube or hollow profile (11) includes inserting the tube or hollow profile (11) into a supporting sleeve (12), with a first tube end (19) being axially supported; placing a pressure-loaded annular die 16 on to the other tube end (20); pressing a forming die (15) with an outer profile into the tube or hollow profile (11) from the latter tube end (20) for producing the inner profile (18); allowing a return of the annular die (16) under a pressure load in the opposite direction of that of pressing in the forming die (15).
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 4, 2005
    Publication date: September 28, 2006
    Inventors: Ulrich Brochheuser, Andreas Gehrke
  • Publication number: 20060213247
    Abstract: An improved oil well production tube system characterized by a series of seam-welded, coilable tubes configured for placement in a subterranean fluid recovery well. Smaller coilable tubes, contained within a larger coilable tube, are configured for providing power communication between the surface and a downhole recovery means. The larger coilable tube is configured for providing communication of a recovered fluid from downhole to the surface. During fabrication, one or more smaller coilable tubes is introduced along the surface of a length of flat strip metal. The smaller coilable tubes are preferably tack-welded to the surface of the flat strip metal at determined intervals along their length. The length of flat strip metal is formed into tubular form and seam welded to form a coilable tube containing the smaller tubes therein.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 28, 2005
    Publication date: September 28, 2006
    Inventor: Joe Crawford
  • Publication number: 20060213248
    Abstract: A hand tool comprising first and second jaw members and first and second handle members, the first handle and both jaw members being cooperatively connected by a force multiplying linkage system. A force applied to the first handle drives the linkage system to close the jaws to crimp or cut a work piece. In one embodiment of the invention, a link in the linkage system has a first end movable between first and second positions relative to its first end pivot pin wherein the first and second jaw members close a first distance when the link first end is in the first position and close a second distance when the link first end is in the second position. Other embodiments comprise other step-wise changes in distance between force-bearing pivot locations in the linkage system to close the jaws progressive distances with successive closures of the first and second handles.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 22, 2006
    Publication date: September 28, 2006
    Inventors: John Cleland, Joseph Lemmens
  • Publication number: 20060213249
    Abstract: An injector system for use in injecting a fluid into a patient includes a communication system adapted to receive data from at least a first sensor that measures a value first variable. The communication system is also adapted to receive data from a calibrated sensor that measures a value the first variable. The injector system further includes a calibration system adapted to calibrate output from the first sensor in response to output from the calibrated sensor. An injector for use in injecting a fluid into a patient, includes a first sensor that measures a value first variable, a communication port adapted to receive data from a calibrated sensor that measures the value the first variable, and a controller adapted to compare data from the calibrated sensor with data from the first sensor and to calibrate output from the first sensor. The devices, systems and methods of the present invention are applicable to systems other than injection systems.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 28, 2006
    Publication date: September 28, 2006
    Inventors: Martin Uram, Michael Frazier, Kenton Adams
  • Publication number: 20060213250
    Abstract: An ultrasonic inspection reference standard for composite materials includes a rectangular prism that is manufactured from a polymer resin. The ultrasonic inspection reference standard may be a polymer resin step-wedge reference standard that has similar acoustic properties as prior art fiber-reinforced composite step-wedge reference standards at significantly lower manufacturing cost. A photo-polymer resin reference standard may be created using a stereo lithography process. The polymer resin reference standard may replace a currently used expensive fiber-reinforced composite reference standard. The ultrasonic inspection reference standard manufactured from a polymer resin may be used, for example, for ultrasonic inspection of fiber-reinforced composite parts. The polymer resin reference standard may be used, for example, in the aircraft airframe industry, both commercial and defense.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 25, 2005
    Publication date: September 28, 2006
    Applicant: The Boeing Company
    Inventors: Christopher Vaccaro, David Lilienthal
  • Publication number: 20060213251
    Abstract: A multi-layer H2 sensor includes a carbon nanotube layer, and a ultra-thin metal or metal alloy layer in contact with the nanotube layer. The ultra-thin metal or metal alloy layer is preferably from 10 to 50 angstroms thick. An electrical resistance of the layered sensor increases upon exposure to H2 and can provide detection of hydrogen gas (H2) down to at least 10 ppm, The metal or metal alloy layer is preferably selected from the group consisting of Ni, Pd and Pt, or mixtures thereof. Multi-layered sensors and can be conveniently operated at room temperature.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 24, 2005
    Publication date: September 28, 2006
    Inventors: Andrew Rinzler, Jennifer Sippel-Oakley, Byoung Kang, Hung-Ta Wang, Fan Ren, Stephen Pearton
  • Publication number: 20060213252
    Abstract: A method and 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, causing the tested chemical substance in the sample liquid to be vaporized in a very short time. Therefore, the tested chemical substance can be absorbed or adsorbed by the absorbing medium to greatly reduce the sample preprocessing time and increase the quantity of the tested chemical substance sample. The detection limits of a tested chemical substance are therefore lowered without using organic solvents.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 26, 2006
    Publication date: September 28, 2006
    Inventor: Jen-Fon Jen
  • Publication number: 20060213253
    Abstract: This apparatus and method allows collection concentrated sample of content in shipping packages without unsealing the package by forcing airflow via existing hidden gaps (101) or, if necessary, creating one by a small incision. The air is injected into the hidden gaps by either probe (114) or socket device (138) to disturb and agitate contents inside the package, causing the contents to loosen and blend particulates on the surface into the air stream. Airborne particles (135) are channeled into detection device (134), where the particulates are concentrated. Display and warning apparatus (137) receives and records the analysis results from detection device (134). If the analysis finds that predetermined selection and sensitivity criteria for target hazard or contraband is met, then the warning apparatus initiates appropriate alert protocols.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 13, 2005
    Publication date: September 28, 2006
    Inventor: Sung Yoon
  • Publication number: 20060213254
    Abstract: A gas sensor made up of a sensor element and a first and a second hollow cylindrical porcelain insulators covering the sensor element. The first porcelain insulator is laid on the second porcelain insulator in alignment within a body of the gas sensor. A base end surface of the first porcelain insulator is placed in abutment with a top end surface of the second porcelain insulator. At least one of the base end surface of the top end surface has a ground flat area which forms an interface between the first and second porcelain insulators without micro-contacts resulting in concentration of local stress which would lead to breakage of the first or second porcelain insulator when subjected to physical loads.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 23, 2006
    Publication date: September 28, 2006
    Applicant: DENSO CORPORATION
    Inventors: Yasuyuki Satou, Seiji Maeda
  • Publication number: 20060213255
    Abstract: A method and apparatus are presented for determining the quantity of liquid and solid content in a removal stream of a froth created from a suspension that is generated during a froth flotation operation. Specifically, electrodes are immersed in the froth generated from a suspension having a known quantity of fiber particles, and the conductance of the froth is measured to establish a relationship between the measured conductance and the quantity of fiber particles. The electrodes are then submerged in a froth generated from a suspension having an unknown quantity of fiber particles, and the froth conductance is measured. The quantity of fiber particles in the froth can then be determined from the pre-established relationship between conductance and solid particle content.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 25, 2005
    Publication date: September 28, 2006
    Inventors: Jun Zhu, Freya Tan, Roland Gleisner
  • Publication number: 20060213256
    Abstract: A thermally controlled stage is connected within one arm of a bridge of a capillary bridge viscometer so that the bridge can be balanced in situ to provide accurate measurement signals. The thermally controlled stage includes a tuning capillary tubing portion that is wrapped around a thermally conductive core. A resistance heater or a Peltier thermoelectric device is located in close proximity to the capillary tubing portion. The heater or Peltier device and the capillary tubing portion are located within a thermally insulated housing. The heater or Peltier device varies the temperature of the capillary tubing portion to cause a corresponding change in the flow impedance of the tuning capillary tubing portion of the arm of the bridge in which the thermally controlled stage is connected. The temperature of the tuning capillary tubing portion is monitored and adjusted until any pressure differential across the bridge is eliminated, whereby to trim in the balance of the bridge.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 28, 2005
    Publication date: September 28, 2006
    Inventor: Steven Trainoff
  • Publication number: 20060213257
    Abstract: A sample injection apparatus and sample injection method capable of sufficiently reducing carry-over, having simple cleaning means for a short cleaning time period, a small influence of vibration of the cleaning means, and a small error in the amount of injected sample and preventing the durability of a sampling needle from being lowered, and a liquid chromatography apparatus having the sample injection apparatus are provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 14, 2004
    Publication date: September 28, 2006
    Applicant: Shiseido Company, Ltd.
    Inventors: Yuki Togashi, Osamu Shirota, Aya Ohkubo
  • Publication number: 20060213258
    Abstract: A robotic system for handling components during chromatographic analysis of a sample includes a holder for positioning a sample within a separation pathway, the holder including a first opening having an internally tapered shape and a second opening having an externally tapered shape. An interior of the holder, between the first and second openings, defines the separation pathway. A hollow rigid member has an externally tapered shape, and a receiving portion has an internally tapered shape. The holder is positioned between the hollow rigid member and the receiving portion, wherein the externally tapered hollow rigid member engages the internally tapered first opening and the internally tapered receiving portion receives the externally tapered second opening to provide a sealed separation pathway extending from the hollow rigid member to the receiving portion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 24, 2006
    Publication date: September 28, 2006
    Inventors: John Hale, Michael Knierman, Kirk Boraas
  • Publication number: 20060213259
    Abstract: Sensors and systems for electrical, electrochemical, or topographical analysis, as well as methods of fabricating these sensors are provided. The sensors include a cantilever and one or more probes, each of which has an electrode at its tip. The tips of the probes are sharp, with a radius of curvature of less than about 50 nm. In addition, the probes have a high aspect ratio of more than about 19:1. The sensors are suitable for both Atomic Force Microscopy and Scanning Electrochemical Microscopy.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 22, 2005
    Publication date: September 28, 2006
    Inventors: Friedrich Prinz, Ye Tao, Rainer Fasching, Ralph Greco, Kyle Hammerick, Robert Smith
  • Publication number: 20060213260
    Abstract: An atomic force microscope and method of energy dissipation imaging using such atomic force microscope. The atomic force microscope has a cantilever equipped with a probe for making contact with a sample, a vibrating unit for vibrating the cantilever, a vibration control unit for controlling the vibrating unit based on a preset value of amplitude, a vibration detector for detecting the amplitude of the vibration of the cantilever, and an imaging unit for creating an energy dissipation image based on the vibration of the cantilever. Error information based on the difference between the value of amplitude detected by the amplitude detection unit and the preset value of amplitude is fed back to the vibrating unit. Thus, the vibrating unit vibrates the cantilever to drive it into resonance. The imaging unit creates an energy dissipation image based on the difference information.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 14, 2006
    Publication date: September 28, 2006
    Applicant: JEOL Ltd.
    Inventor: Keiichi Nakamoto
  • Publication number: 20060213261
    Abstract: An approach to detect when a cantilever loses interaction with a sample, thereby detecting when a portion of an image obtained using a cantilever is spurious is presented. An observer based estimation of cantilever deflection is compared to the cantilever deflection and the resulting innovation is used to detect when the cantilever loses interaction. The loss of interaction is determined when the innovation is outside of and/or below a threshold level.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 22, 2006
    Publication date: September 28, 2006
    Applicant: IOWA STATE RESEARCH FOUNDATION
    Inventors: Murti Salapaka, Tathagata De, Pranav Agarwal, Deepak Sahoo
  • Publication number: 20060213262
    Abstract: A cylinder discriminating device includes a cylinder discriminating section. A crank rotor includes first and second non-tooth portions asymmetrically positioned on the crank rotor. The first non-tooth portion is positioned to correspond to a top dead center of a specific cylinder. A crank signal is outputted when each of the plurality of the tooth portions is detected. A cam signal is outputted when a predetermined tooth portion of a cam rotor is detected. And, the cylinder discriminating section discriminates the specific cylinder by detecting the first non-tooth portion based on number of the crank signals detected during a time period from a time when one of the first and second non-tooth portions is detected to a time when the other of the first and second non-tooth portions is detected, and by detecting whether or not the cylinder discriminating section detects the cam signal during the same time period.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 23, 2006
    Publication date: September 28, 2006
    Applicant: FUJITSU TEN LIMITED
    Inventors: Hiroshi Arita, Takahiro Aki, Takeshi Maenaka
  • Publication number: 20060213263
    Abstract: A flow rate/liquid type detecting method for detecting the flow rate of a fluid and, at the same time, detecting any one of or both the type of the fluid and the concentration of the fluid, characterized in that: by using a flow rate/liquid type detecting apparatus comprising; a main passage through which a fluid to be detected flows, an auxiliary passage branched from said main passage, and a flow rate/liquid type detecting sensor device provided in said auxiliary passage, is provided, and in conducting any one of or both the detection of the type of said fluid to be detected and the detection of the concentration of said fluid to be detected, said auxiliary passage opening/closing valve is closed, and said fluid to be detected is allowed to temporarily stay within said flow rate/liquid type detecting sensor device to conduct any one of or both the detection of the liquid type and the detection of the concentration, and in detecting the flow rate of the fluid to be detected, said auxiliary passage opening/cl
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 9, 2004
    Publication date: September 28, 2006
    Applicant: Mitsui Mining & Smelting Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Toshiaki Kawanishi, Takayuki Takahata, Kenji Tomonari, Kiyoshi Yamagishi, Atsushi Koike, Akiko Kubota, Shin-Ichi Inoue
  • Publication number: 20060213264
    Abstract: A dewing sensor and a method for making the dewing sensor. The dewing sensor includes a substrate having at least two electrodes, at least two comb electrodes, and a detecting layer, wherein the comb electrodes contact the two electrodes on the substrate, and the detecting layer includes a derivative of cellulose formed on the comb electrodes.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 2, 2005
    Publication date: September 28, 2006
    Applicant: Forward Electronics Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Shih-Wei Ku, Ching-Hao Chung
  • Publication number: 20060213265
    Abstract: Devices and methods for reducing quadrature motion in a MEMS-type gyroscope are disclosed. A MEMS-type gyroscope in accordance with an illustrative embodiment of the present invention can include one or more proof masses configured to oscillate in a drive plane above a sense electrode for measuring Coriolis forces exerted on the one or more proof masses resulting from motion of the gyroscope about an input axis. One or more quad steering voltage members can be positioned adjacent each of the one or more proof masses and activated to electrostatically attract the proof masses toward the sense electrodes to reduce quadrature motion of the proof masses. A levitation force can be induced in certain embodiments to further reduce quadrature motion of the proof masses, if desired.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 22, 2005
    Publication date: September 28, 2006
    Applicant: HONEYWELL INTERNATIONAL INC
    Inventors: Mark Weber, Robert Smith
  • Publication number: 20060213266
    Abstract: Devices and methods for reducing errors in a MEMS-type gyroscope are disclosed. A MEMS-type gyroscope in accordance with an illustrative embodiment of the present invention can include one or more proof masses configured to oscillate in a drive plane above a sense electrode for measuring Coriolis forces exerted on the one or more proof masses resulting from motion of the gyroscope about an input axis. One or more quad steering voltage members can be positioned adjacent each of the one or more proof masses and activated to electrostatically attract the proof masses toward the sense electrodes to reduce any undesired motion of the proof masses due to quadrature and/or temperature effects. The voltage applied to each of the quad steering voltage members can be time-varying, and, in some cases, can be derived from the same voltage signal used to drive the proof masses.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 10, 2006
    Publication date: September 28, 2006
    Applicant: HONEYWELL INTERNATIONAL INC.
    Inventors: Howard French, Mark Weber
  • Publication number: 20060213267
    Abstract: In a displacement detection device, an acceleration sensor generates at least a first acceleration signal relating to an axis of detection, and a displacement detection circuit is connected to the acceleration sensor has a comparator stage for comparing the acceleration signal with a programmable acceleration threshold and generates a displacement-detection signal. A high-pass filter is arranged between the acceleration sensor and the comparator stage so as to reduce a DC component of the acceleration signal. The cut-off frequency of the high-pass filter is modified according to the type of displacements that are to be detected.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 30, 2005
    Publication date: September 28, 2006
    Applicant: STMicroelectronics S.r.I.
    Inventors: Michele Tronconi, Enrico Chiesa, Fabio Pasolini
  • Publication number: 20060213268
    Abstract: An acceleration sensor includes: a semiconductor substrate including a support layer and a semiconductor layer, which are stacked in a first direction; a movable electrode and a fixed electrode; and a trench. The movable electrode separately faces the fixed electrode by sandwiching the trench along with a second direction. The trench has a detection distance in the second direction. The movable electrode is movable along with the first direction when acceleration is applied. The movable electrode has a bottom apart from the support layer. The width of the movable electrode along with the second direction is smaller than the width of the fixed electrode. The thickness of the movable electrode along with the first direction is smaller than the thickness of the fixed electrode.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 21, 2006
    Publication date: September 28, 2006
    Applicant: DENSO CORPORATION
    Inventors: Kazushi Asami, Yukihiro Takeuchi, Kenichi Yokoyama
  • Publication number: 20060213269
    Abstract: The present invention relates to measuring devices for use in physical measuring, and in particular to capacitive sensors. In the sensor according to the invention, the shape of the stationary electrode (3), (4), (12), (17-20), (27-28) is stepped. By means of the invention, a method for manufacturing a capacitive sensor with improved linearity is achieved, as well as a capacitive sensor suitable for use particularly in small capacitive sensor solutions.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 23, 2005
    Publication date: September 28, 2006
    Inventors: Jaakko Ruohio, Risto Mutikainen
  • Publication number: 20060213270
    Abstract: A one terminal capacitor interface circuit for sensing the capacitance of a capacitor includes a differential integrating amplifier having an input common mode voltage and two summing nodes whose voltage is substantially equal to the input common mode voltage, a switching circuit for charging the capacitor to a first voltage level in a first phase, connecting, in a second phase, the capacitor to one of the summing nodes of the differential amplifier to provide a first output change substantially representative of the difference between the first voltage level and the input common mode voltage, and also representative of the capacitor; charging the capacitor to a second voltage level in a third phase, and connecting, in a fourth phase, the capacitor to the other summing node of the differential amplifier to provide a second output change substantially representative of the difference between the second voltage level and the input common mode voltage, and also representative of the capacitor; the combined first
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 8, 2006
    Publication date: September 28, 2006
    Inventors: John O'Dowd, Damien McCartney, Gabriel Banarie
  • Publication number: 20060213271
    Abstract: A biosensor detection system for detecting a particular substance has at least two biosensor devices. Each biosensor device includes a piezoelectric material, an input transducer mounted on the piezoelectric material to receive an input radio frequency signal and propagate a corresponding acoustic wave within the piezoelectric material and an output transducer mounted on the piezoelectric material to receive the acoustic wave and transmit a corresponding output radio frequency signal. A biolayer is mounted on the piezoelectric material to receive a substance to be tested and cause a corresponding change in the acoustic wave. An oscillator circuit is connected to the input transducer and to the output transducer, the oscillator circuit including an amplifier and providing an output signal indicative of a change in the acoustic wave.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 25, 2005
    Publication date: September 28, 2006
    Inventors: Peter Edmonson, William Hunt, Desmond Stubbs, Sang Lee
  • Publication number: 20060213272
    Abstract: There is provided a condition detection apparatus for detecting a present operating condition of a linear rolling motion guide apparatus, and the condition detection apparatus includes an AE sensor 1 for detecting a waveform elastically generated at least due to rolling of balls included in the linear rolling motion guide apparatus and mutual collision of the balls and generating an electric detection signal corresponding the detected waveform, a waveform shaping unit 2, an A/D converter 3, and a signal processing unit 4 judging a content of the operation condition in response to the generated detected signal Sae.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 27, 2004
    Publication date: September 28, 2006
    Applicant: THK CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Takeo Yoshioka, Yoshiyuki Honjyo, Shigeo Watanabe
  • Publication number: 20060213273
    Abstract: Systems and methods to obtain an ultrasonic image of a large detection area are disclosed. A system includes a source of ultrasound generating ultrasonic energy and projecting the ultrasonic energy from a projecting end and an adapter interfaced to the projecting end and ultrasonically coupling the source of ultrasound to a first surface of the structure to be imaged at an adjustable angle of incidence. A method includes ultrasonically coupling a source of ultrasonic energy to a first surface of a structure to be imaged with an adapter, the adapter adjustable to a select a first angle of incidence and a second angle of incidence, projecting ultrasonic energy into the structure, and detecting a reflected acoustic energy from the structure with an ultrasound camera. A first angle of incidence is selected to introduce a longitudinal wave into the structure, and a second angle of incidence is selected to introduce a shear wave into the structure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 24, 2005
    Publication date: September 28, 2006
    Applicant: IMPERIUM, INC.
    Inventors: Robert Lasser, Marvin Lasser, John Gurney
  • Publication number: 20060213274
    Abstract: An inspection head where non-destructive inspection is structured to fit into narrow spaces, and to accurately and repeatably move an inspection probe along a surface to be inspected. Movement of the inspection head along an X, Y, Z, ?, and ?-axis is precisely controlled by individual drive mechanisms.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 22, 2005
    Publication date: September 28, 2006
    Inventors: Charles Moore, Michael Moore, Michael Fair, James Bauer, Michael Metala
  • Publication number: 20060213275
    Abstract: A piezoresistive pressure and/or strain sensor micro-machined primarily from plastic and/or glass. In one illustrative embodiment, the piezoresistive pressure sensor is formed on a polymer substrate. A first selectively implanted region is provided in the polymer substrate to create a piezoresistive region in the polymer substrate. A second selectively implanted region is then provided in at least part of the first selectively implanted region to modulate the electrical conductivity of the first selectively implanted region. The illustrative sensor may be selectively implanted with, for example, nitrogen to create the piezoresistive region, and boron to modulate the electrical conductivity of the piezoresistive region. Phosphorus or any other suitable material may also be used to modulate the electrical conductivity of the piezoresistive region, as desired.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 23, 2005
    Publication date: September 28, 2006
    Applicant: HONEYWELL INTERNATIONAL INC
    Inventors: Cornel Cobianu, Mihai Gologanu, Ioan Pavelescu, Bogdan Serban
  • Publication number: 20060213276
    Abstract: A pressure sensor device includes a pressure sensor cell that includes a sensor chip having a diaphragm with piezo-resistors, an amplifying circuit, and various adjusting circuits, and a base member to which the sensor chip is joined, with the diaphragm facing a through hole of the base member. The base member and a metallic member are joined together with a joining member so that their respective through holes communicate with each other. A protective film or filler covers the joining member between the base member and the metallic pipe member. The metallic pipe member is bonded to a resin case, and a signal terminal of the resin case and the pressure sensor chip are electrically connected together by wire bonding, thus forming a pressure sensor cell. The metallic pipe member protrudes beyond an end face of the resin case to support load.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 10, 2006
    Publication date: September 28, 2006
    Applicant: FUJI ELECTRIC DEVICE TECHNOLOGY CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Katsumichi Ueyanagi, Shigeru Shinoda, Kimihiro Ashino, Kazunori Saito
  • Publication number: 20060213277
    Abstract: The invention relates to a prestressing element for prestressing a measuring sensor arranged between structures or in a recess of a structure. The application and release of the prestress can only be carried out at one point by means of a key. The invention also relates to an arrangement of a plurality of prestressing elements which can be individually prestressed and released with the same tool.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 16, 2004
    Publication date: September 28, 2006
    Inventor: Peter Tschanz
  • Publication number: 20060213278
    Abstract: A structure includes a structure surface and a protective cover. The protective cover includes a circuit having a component, a moisture detector, and a radio frequency transmitter. The component is adhesively connected to the structure surface with an adhesive connection. The moisture detector is positioned to provide information about moisture in the protective cover. The circuit is for providing data derived from the component and from the moisture detector to the radio frequency transmitter for external transmission. The component may be a strain sensor. The moisture detector may be a capacitor. A moisture barrier may also be provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 28, 2005
    Publication date: September 28, 2006
    Inventors: Steven Arms, Christopher Townsend, Steven Mundell, David Churchill
  • Publication number: 20060213279
    Abstract: An apparatus measures a supporting force of ferroconcrete piles by means of a bi-directional front end oil pressure loading apparatus using a high pressure loading system capable of measuring a supporting force, a sinking amount and an axis load distribution on the ferroconcrete piles.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 13, 2006
    Publication date: September 28, 2006
    Inventors: Yong-Kyu Choi, Min-Hee Lee
  • Publication number: 20060213280
    Abstract: A displacement sensor includes: a light projecting element for illuminating a measurement aim object at a predetermined angle with light; a light receiving element for receiving a reflected light from the measurement aim object illuminated with light; an automatic measurement aim region setting device for automatically setting measurement regions for respective acquired two reflecting surfaces by automatically increasing a light emitting quantity of the light projecting element by a predetermined quantity at a time from a predetermined value of the light projecting element till two or more reflecting surfaces of the measurement aim object are acquired on the light receiving element; and a displacement measuring device performing desired measurement of displacement based on a received light image on the light receiving element.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 13, 2006
    Publication date: September 28, 2006
    Inventor: Koji Shimada
  • Publication number: 20060213281
    Abstract: A panel testing device, and a method of its use, for flexing and measuring mechanical properties of a panel are provided comprising a panel bending assembly operable to engage a panel and impart a bending force on the engaged panel, and a linear actuator having an output shaft coupled to the panel bending assembly, wherein the output shaft is operable to be movable relative to the panel bending assembly continuously at a constant rate of linear motion regardless of the torque force resisting such motion at the panel testing assembly.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 25, 2005
    Publication date: September 28, 2006
    Inventors: Jody Doak, Shannon Guffey
  • Publication number: 20060213282
    Abstract: A work holder capable of measuring the amount of distortion occurring in a part as the part is machined, processed, treated, or otherwise operated upon and methods of using the same for quality control and process monitoring purposes.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 14, 2005
    Publication date: September 28, 2006
    Inventor: Paul Prevey
  • Publication number: 20060213283
    Abstract: A method for measuring fluid flow rates comprises the steps of: (a) creating a non-oscillating magnetic field of a predetermined strength across a flowing fluid; (b) performing the sub-steps of: (i) exposing the flowing fluid to an oscillating magnetic field pulse orthogonal to the non-oscillating magnetic field to generate an NMR signal, and (ii) detecting the NMR signal from the flowing fluid in the form of a free induction decay; and (c) determining the fluid flow rate from the initial magnitude of the free induction decay.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 7, 2006
    Publication date: September 28, 2006
    Inventors: Peter Morris, Terry Moore, Paul Anuzis, Kenneth Astley
  • Publication number: 20060213284
    Abstract: A magnetoinductive flowmeter for measuring the flow rate of a moving medium includes a measuring tube conducting the medium, and an insert provided in the measuring tube. The insert consists of at least one first part and one second part which first part is introduced into the measuring tube from one end of the measuring tube while the second part, introduced into the measuring tube from the other end of the measuring tube, is joined with the first part in leak-proof fashion. The result is an easy-to-install insert that ensures secure and maintainable retention.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 10, 2006
    Publication date: September 28, 2006
    Inventors: Johannes Visser, Pieter Herremans, Alexander Heijnsdijk, Graham Lodge, Paul Johnson