Patents Issued in January 2, 2007
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Patent number: 7155949Abstract: The present invention relates to a method in a press of pressure cell type comprising a forming tool and, separated therefrom, a diaphragm, which define a forming space in which a blank is inserted for forming thereof against the forming tool by pressing the diaphragm against the blank. A blank portion projecting from the forming space is gripped by means of at least one gripping device and the connection between the blank and the gripping device is shielded from the diaphragm at least when the diaphragm is pressed against the blank. The invention further relates to a press of pressure cell type and a tray device.Type: GrantFiled: February 17, 2003Date of Patent: January 2, 2007Assignee: Avure Technologies ABInventor: Keijo Hellgren
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Patent number: 7155950Abstract: The invention relates to a damper construction (2) of a furnace coiler (1) which can especially be used in Steckel mills (1). A hot rolled strip is respectively coiled onto, and uncoiled off, a drum inside the furnace in a reversing manner, by means of a back and forth transport movement, and is optionally heated. Guiding flaps (6, 6?) are mounted on the displaceable damper (2) of the furnace coiler, for inserting and guiding the rolled strip. In order to improve maintenance work, the dampers (2) and the furnace coiler (1) are embodied as separate components. The dampers (2) are arranged on an element (4?) pertaining to a displaceable roller rack (4), said element being located beneath the furnace coiler (1). Each damper (2) is divided into at least two elements (2?, 2?) which can be hinged together, the two hinged elements being connected by means of a hinge bearing (7) in a pivoting manner.Type: GrantFiled: November 20, 2002Date of Patent: January 2, 2007Assignee: SMS Demag AGInventors: Werner Dommel, Wolfgang Fuchs, Andreas Bohn
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Patent number: 7155951Abstract: Apparatus and method for reducing vibration in a mill stand. The apparatus comprises a roll (4) positioned upstream or downstream of the mill stand (1) and over which the strip material (2) being rolled is passed. The vibration control apparatus comprises an inertia element in the form of a flywheel (7) connected to the roll (4) by a stiffness element in the form of a compliant shaft (6). The components (6) and (7) form a mechanical system which can be tuned in such a way as to introduce a speed fluctuation at the roll (4) which exactly matches the speed fluctuation of the strip material as it enters the roll bite. Both the inertia element (7) and stiffness element (6) can take other forms: for example, the stiffness element could be a flexible drive belt or belts; the inertia element could be a shaft about which the roll (4) rotates, via a stiffness element.Type: GrantFiled: December 17, 2001Date of Patent: January 2, 2007Assignee: Novelis, Inc.Inventor: Thomas William Dashwood Farley
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Patent number: 7155952Abstract: A method and apparatus for being hollow work pieces has a pressurizing arrangement that allows the pressure to be adjusted in an internal cavity defined within the work pieces between subsequent bending operations on any one work piece. The internal cavity is defined by sealing caps that are secured to the ends of the work piece.Type: GrantFiled: September 22, 2005Date of Patent: January 2, 2007Assignee: Yamaha Hatsudoki Kabushiki KaishaInventors: Mamoru Rachi, Yoji Tashiro, Tamio Yoshino
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Patent number: 7155953Abstract: An anvil driving assembly, anvil driving tool, and method for installing rivetless floating nut plates in workpieces. The tool and method are capable of pulling a rivetless nut plate sleeve into a countersunk hole in the workpiece simultaneously with flaring the open end of the nut plate sleeve.Type: GrantFiled: May 19, 2004Date of Patent: January 2, 2007Inventor: Robert E. Nikkel
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Patent number: 7155954Abstract: Pliers for crimping work pieces include a pliers head, a first pivot jaw (4) and a second pivot jaw (3). A common joint (5) pivotally connects the first and second pivot jaw (4, 3). Two dies together form a crimping die (8). A first handle (2) is connected to the first pivot jaw (4). The first handle (2) is divided into at least a first portion (21) and a second portion (22). The first portion (21) is designed as a plate. A second handle (1) is connected to the second pivot jaw (3). The first handle (2) and the second handle (1) are movable with respect to one another and operable to crimp the work piece in a few crimping steps. A locking mechanism (28) includes a tooth segment (29), and it serves to attain a defined closed position of the dies. The tooth segment (29) is designed as one piece with the first portion (21). A stop mechanism (31) includes at least two stops, and it connects the first portion (21) and the second portion (22) in a plurality of different angle positions.Type: GrantFiled: October 4, 2004Date of Patent: January 2, 2007Assignee: Wezag GmbH WerkzeugfabrikInventor: Kurt Battenfeld
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Patent number: 7155955Abstract: A crimping assembly is disclosed. The assembly includes cam profiles on the ends of the arms. The cam profiles are engaged by the crimping tool and control the input force versus displacement of the tool. The cam profile includes a first portion defined by a radius, a second portion adjacent the first portion and defined by a non-linear equation, and a third portion adjacent the second portion and defined by a linear equation. The assembly further includes a passive mode of failure in the side plates. The arms of the assembly have a hardness greater than the side plates and have a maximum section height at their point of rotation for increasing their strength. The assembly further includes a leaf spring disposed between the arms and held therebetween by pins disposed in holes defined in the sides of the arms. A crimp ring having an increased diameter is disclosed for reducing the crimping force required to crimp 3-inch fittings.Type: GrantFiled: September 10, 2002Date of Patent: January 2, 2007Assignee: Emerson Electric Co.Inventors: Richard R Bowles, James E Hamm
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Patent number: 7155956Abstract: A novel medium, method and system for proving a turbine meter for use with natural gas. The novel test medium is a gas having the following characteristics: (a) Density>2×Density of Natural Gas; (b) Dynamic Viscosity<Dynamic Viscosity of Natural Gas; and (c) Ideal gas behavior for approximately 15° C.<T<25° C. and 1 bar<P<50 bar. The method and system make use of the novel test medium. Also disclosed is a novel method and system for cooling a test medium circulating in a turbine meter prover system involving injecting liquefied test medium into said circulating test medium.Type: GrantFiled: January 23, 2004Date of Patent: January 2, 2007Assignee: Terasen Gas Inc.Inventor: Paul Tang
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Patent number: 7155957Abstract: Methods and apparatus are provided for testing an acoustic device that has multiple transducing elements adapted for conversion between acoustic and electrical signals. An electrical transmission signal is generated. The electrical transmission signal is transmitted to a selected transducing element. An electrical received signal is received from the acoustic device. A reference signal is generated. A capacitance associated with the selected transducing element is determined from the reference signal. Operational characteristics of the selected transducing element are diagnosed from the determined capacitance and the electrical received signal.Type: GrantFiled: December 27, 2005Date of Patent: January 2, 2007Assignee: Sonora Medical Systems, Inc.Inventors: James M. Gessert, William H. Phillips, Jr., G. Wayne Moore
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Patent number: 7155958Abstract: Methods of measuring the amount of wear at a hole. In a first embodiment, the method includes measuring a first diameter of the hole at a portion of the hole wall that is subject to wear and measuring a second diameter of the hole at a portion of the wall not subject to the wear. The measured diameters are then used to determine the amount of the wear. An assumption may be made regarding a profile of the wear. To determine the amount of the wear from the measured diameters, the Pythagorean Theorem may be used. Further, the method may include determining how far a fastener will protrude from the hole based on the amount of the wear. Moreover, the hole may be used to calibrate ring or chamfer gages.Type: GrantFiled: November 10, 2004Date of Patent: January 2, 2007Assignee: The Boeing CompanyInventor: Curtis M. Ashford
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Patent number: 7155959Abstract: The invention provides a sensor array with different nanodisk sensors that may be fabricated by direct site-specific dip-pen nanopatterning (DPN) using precursor inks. The good flow characteristics and strong affinity of the sols to measurement electrodes enable intimate ohmic contact. The measurable, reproducible and proportionate changes in the resistance of the sensors when exposed to trace quantities of oxidative and reducing gases constitute the basis for nanodisk gas sensors. The nanodisk sensors show rapid response and ultra-fast recovery for the detection of nitrogen dioxide and acetic acid vapor. Based on the principles of pattern recognition of the olfactory system, an electronic nose that can “smell” different gaseous species is provided with the multiple nanodisk sensor array.Type: GrantFiled: February 18, 2004Date of Patent: January 2, 2007Assignee: Northwestern UniversityInventors: Ming Su, Vinayak P. Dravid
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Patent number: 7155960Abstract: A temperature-programmed desorbed gas analyzing apparatus including a sample chamber 1 in which a sample S is disposed, an infrared heating furnace 2 for heating the sample S disposed in the sample chamber 1, a measuring chamber 3 in which gas desorbed from the sample S by heating is introduced, a turbo molecular pump 4 for reducing the pressure in the measuring chamber 3, a mass spectrometer 5 having a gas detection portion 5a disposed in the measuring chamber 3, an intermediate pressure-reduced chamber 6 provided between the sample chamber 1 and the measuring chamber 3, a first orifice 7 which the intermediate pressure-reduced chamber 6 and the sample chamber 1 intercommunicate with each other, and a second orifice 8 through which the intermediate pressure-reduced chamber 6 and the measuring chamber 3 intercommunicate with each other, and the desorbed gas occurring in the sample chamber 1 is introduced through the first orifice 7, the intermediate pressure-reduced chamber 6 and the second orifice 8 into theType: GrantFiled: October 26, 2004Date of Patent: January 2, 2007Assignee: Rigaku CorporationInventors: Tadashi Arii, Yoshihiro Takata, Shuichi Matsuo
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Patent number: 7155961Abstract: A leak detector for an insulated duct carrying pressurized hot air comprises a cuff secured over a circumferential cut in the insulation of the duct, thereby creating a reservoir of hot air which has leaked from the duct, a manifold defining a conduit therein in communication with the hot air reservoir and a cap for securing heat sensitive wires to manifold at the end of the conduit such that the hot air from the hot air reservoir impinges directly on the heat sensitive wires.Type: GrantFiled: June 4, 2004Date of Patent: January 2, 2007Assignee: Senior Operations, Inc.Inventors: Leslie Fernandes, Arnaud Amy
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Patent number: 7155962Abstract: The invention relates to a method of and an apparatus for studying properties, especially physical properties of a surfactant. A fluid is introduced in the form of a sample volume in another fluid which is immiscible with said fluid so that an interface is formed between the one fluid and the other fluid, at least in a partial area of a surface of the sample volume. The sample volume is configured so as to be axially symmetrical around a given defining axis, whereby the interface is formed axially symmetrically with respect to the given defining axis. The surfactant is spread across the interface to form a surface film in the area of the interface with the surfactant. Thereupon the surface film can by studied microscopically.Type: GrantFiled: May 17, 2002Date of Patent: January 2, 2007Assignee: JPK Instruments AGInventors: Detlef Knebel, Matthias Amrein
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Patent number: 7155963Abstract: The present invention relates to a cleaning evaluation method for evaluating a surface cleanliness of a substrate which has been cleaned after being polished. This method includes preparing a dummy substrate having a metal film formed on a surface thereof and a monitor substrate on which a cleaning evaluation is performed, and polishing the dummy substrate. After polishing the dummy substrate, the monitor substrate is polished without dressing a polishing surface of a polishing table, the monitor substrate is cleaned, and the surface cleanliness of the monitor substrate which has been cleaned is evaluated.Type: GrantFiled: September 2, 2004Date of Patent: January 2, 2007Assignee: Ebara CorporationInventors: Yukiko Nishioka, Yoshikazu Ariga
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Patent number: 7155964Abstract: The preferred embodiments are directed to a method and apparatus of operating a scanning probe microscope (SPM) including oscillating a probe of the SPM at a torsional resonance of the probe, and generally simultaneously measuring an electrical property, e.g., a current, capacitance, impedance, etc., between a probe of the SPM and a sample at a separation controlled by the torsional resonance mode. Preferably, the measuring step is performed while using torsional resonance feedback to maintain a set-point of SPM operation.Type: GrantFiled: May 21, 2005Date of Patent: January 2, 2007Assignee: Veeco Instruments Inc.Inventors: Lin Huang, Chanmin Su
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Patent number: 7155965Abstract: A method and system for determining a combustion misfire in an internal combustion engine by calculating a segment time; normalizing the calculated segment time; modifying the normalized segment time using low pass filters for each cylinder; calculating a misfire determination reference value by adding a minimum value among the modified normalized segment times to a predetermined offset value; and determining whether a combustion misfire occurs based on a comparison of the modified normalized segment time and the misfire determination reference value.Type: GrantFiled: June 21, 2005Date of Patent: January 2, 2007Assignee: Hyundai Motor CompanyInventor: Chang Hyun Kim
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Patent number: 7155966Abstract: An apparatus for measuring soil stability of a test surface comprising a housing defining an interior chamber, the housing having an open bottom wherein the housing is configured to be placed over the test surface proximate the open bottom. A means for generating wind shear disposed in the interior chamber, the wind shear generating means configured to generate wind shear proximate the test surface and at least one particle monitor in communication with the interior chamber.Type: GrantFiled: June 10, 2004Date of Patent: January 2, 2007Assignee: The Board of Regents of the University and Community College System of Nevada on behalf of the Desert Research InstituteInventors: Vicken Etyemezian, Hampden Dwight Kuhns, Marc Lynn Pitchford, Sean Jason Ahonen, George Nikolich
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Patent number: 7155967Abstract: A method and apparatus for testing formations surrounding an earth borehole. The method includes the following steps: providing a tool movable through the borehole; providing a flow line in the tool; establishing fluid communication between the formations and the flow line of the tool; and providing a sand trap in communication with the flow line of the tool for trapping sand flowing with fluid from the formations.Type: GrantFiled: July 9, 2002Date of Patent: January 2, 2007Assignee: Schlumberger Technology CorporationInventors: Erik Rylander, Robert Jeffries, Glenn Houston, Sammy S. Haddad
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Patent number: 7155968Abstract: The invention relates to a multifunction probe for aircraft. The probe has a mobile vane intended to align with the axis of an air flow around the probe. The mobile vane comprises first pressure pickup means for measuring the total pressure of the flow and second pressure pickup means for measuring the static pressure of the flow. The mobile vane furthermore has a profile whose flexure is variable.Type: GrantFiled: December 13, 2002Date of Patent: January 2, 2007Assignee: ThalesInventors: Lionel Collot, Nicolas Hanson
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Patent number: 7155969Abstract: A system for determining physical characteristics of an incident flow stream over a surface of a vehicle includes a plurality of acoustic sensors mounted to the surface and configured to sense pressure fluctuations caused by the incident flow stream. The plurality of acoustic sensors provide output signals indicative of the sensed pressure fluctuations. Processing circuitry coupled to the plurality of acoustic sensors, measures flow velocity in a first direction as a function of the output signals of at least two of the plurality of acoustic sensors, and measures flow velocity in a second direction as a function of the output signals of at least two of the plurality of acoustic sensors. The processing circuitry is configured to calculate an angular direction of flow as a function of the first and second measured flow velocities.Type: GrantFiled: December 10, 2003Date of Patent: January 2, 2007Assignee: Rosemount Aerospace Inc.Inventors: Karl Gable Drutowski, Dennis James Cronin, Derrick David Hongerholt
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Patent number: 7155970Abstract: In a heat-radiation type flow sensor, a heater resistor is connected to a fixed resistor in series with a transistor. An electrical potential between the heater resistor and the transistor is supplied to an inverting input terminal of an operational amplifier. A reference voltage is supplied to a non-inverting input terminal of the operational amplifier. An output potential of the operational amplifier is supplied to a base of the transistor. Since the electrical potential between the heater resistor and the transistor is supplied to the inverting input terminal of the operational amplifier, the airflow sensor includes only a negative feedback circuit. Thus, the airflow sensor exhibits strong endurance against electromagnetic interferences.Type: GrantFiled: July 12, 2005Date of Patent: January 2, 2007Assignee: Denso CorporationInventors: Hiromi Ariyoshi, Chiaki Mizuno
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Patent number: 7155971Abstract: The invention relates to a method and device for determining the volumetric flow rate of milk flowing during a milking process. A cross-sectional area (Ai) of the milk flow (2) is determined at a first measuring point (3) by means of a sensor (4) which is arranged outside the flowing milk. The time (ti) required by the milk flow (2) with the determined cross-sectional are (Ai), to go from the first measuring point (3) to a second measuring point (5) which is provided downstream from the first measuring point, is measured. The flow speed (vi) is derived from the measured time (ti) and the known distance (s) between the first and second measuring points (3, 5). The volumetric flow rate (V(t)) is determined on the basis of the determined cross-sectional area (Ai) and the flow speed (vi).Type: GrantFiled: November 18, 2002Date of Patent: January 2, 2007Assignee: WestfaliaSurge GmbhInventors: Heiner Wamhof, Marek Krasutzki, Peter Kaever, Jan-Hermann Reurik
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Patent number: 7155972Abstract: This invention is an apparatus configured to receive expendable from an expendable container with a piezoelectric element attached. This apparatus has a detection signal generation circuit configured to charge and discharge the piezoelectric element, and generate a detection signal including information representing a cycle of remaining vibration of the piezoelectric element after a lapse of a predetermined standby time from a completion of the discharge; and a controller configured to generate a clock signal, and control the charge and the discharge of the piezoelectric element. The cycle is available for determining whether a residual quantity of the expendable is greater than a preset level. The controller is configured to determine the predetermined standby time by counting a number of pulses in the clock signal.Type: GrantFiled: June 25, 2004Date of Patent: January 2, 2007Assignee: Seiko Epson CorporationInventor: Yasuhiko Kosugi
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Patent number: 7155973Abstract: A balancer assembly 10 which automatically provides balancer limits, which achieves a balancing state while substantially minimizing short term vibration increases and which provides for multi-plane balancer dithering.Type: GrantFiled: March 16, 2005Date of Patent: January 2, 2007Inventor: Stephen William Dyer
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Patent number: 7155974Abstract: An inertia sensor unit having a detecting element, a signal processor being constituted as an element separate from the detecting element, for at least amplifying signals output from the detecting element, and an inertia sensor mounted to a detection object for detecting acceleration or angular velocity of the detection object as an inertial force of the detection object to output electrical signals changing according to the inertial force, includes: a first temperature detecting element for detecting the temperature of the signal processor, a second temperature detecting element for detecting the temperature of the detecting element directly or indirectly, and a correcting processor for correcting the signals output from the inertia sensor based on the result detected by the first temperature detecting element and the second temperature detecting element.Type: GrantFiled: October 15, 2004Date of Patent: January 2, 2007Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.Inventors: Kazutaka Saito, Akira Nakamuta, Ichiro Ueno, Fumiki Sato, Satoshi Hiyama
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Patent number: 7155975Abstract: A high-reliability complex sensor is protected against vibration and electromagnetic wave noise from outside. A shield case is provided with a power conjunction terminal, GND conjunction terminal, angular velocity conjunction terminal, X axis acceleration conjunction terminal and Y axis acceleration conjunction terminal. Both a power supply terminal of an angular velocity detection device and a power supply terminal of an acceleration detection device are electrically connected with a power connector terminal of a protection case, via the power conjunction terminal of the shield case. Both a GND terminal of the angular velocity detection device and a GND terminal of the acceleration detection device are electrically connected with a GND connector terminal of the protection case, via the GND conjunction terminal of the shield case. A circuit board is contained completely within the shield case.Type: GrantFiled: June 24, 2002Date of Patent: January 2, 2007Assignee: Matsushita Electric Industrial Co., Ltd.Inventors: Tomohiro Mitani, Shoichi Takeno, Katsuhiko Omoto
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Patent number: 7155976Abstract: The invention provides a rotation sensing apparatus and method for manufacturing the same, in which the rotation sensing apparatus comprises at least a pair of vibration parts and a sensing electrode. The pair of vibration parts is disposed on a substrate symmetrically and each vibration part comprises an electrostatic vibrating body, a fixed support and an elastic body. The electrostatic vibrating body is away from the substrate with an appropriate distance. The fixed support connects with the electrostatic vibrating body and the substrate. The elastic body connects the fixed support with some rods thereof and connects with the electrostatic vibrating body with some other rods thereof. The sensing electrode is disposed on the substrate and under the at least pair of vibration parts. The pair of vibration parts can vibrate horizontally by electrostatic force and will sway vertically to the substrate by Coriolis force when a rotation occurs.Type: GrantFiled: January 5, 2005Date of Patent: January 2, 2007Assignee: Industrial Technology Research InstituteInventors: Chang Kai-Cheng, Liang Pei-Fang, Hsu Ming-Hsiu, Chen Yi-Ru, Chen Ya-Ping
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Patent number: 7155977Abstract: A capacitance type semiconductor dynamic quantity sensor includes a substrate having a support layer and a semiconductor layer mounted on the support layer, a weight portion displaceable in a predetermined direction, movable electrodes joined to the weight portion so as to be displaceable integrally with the weight portion, fixed electrodes disposed so as to confront the movable electrodes and beam-shaped beam portions that are deformable elastically to displace the weight portion. When a dynamic quantity is applied, the distance between each movable electrode and each fixed electrode being varied, and the applied dynamic quantity being detected on the basis of the capacitance variation between both the electrodes which is caused by the variation of this distance. The thickness h2 of the beam portion is set to be larger than the thickness h1 of the movable electrode.Type: GrantFiled: October 20, 2005Date of Patent: January 2, 2007Assignee: Denso CorporationInventor: Minekazu Sakai
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Patent number: 7155978Abstract: A micro angular rate-sensing device is provided. A vibrator, having a plurality of proof masses connected to a ring, is arranged in a first base. Flexible supporting members connect to the vibrator to suspend the vibrator in the first base. Electrodes drive the vibrator to oscillate and control the oscillation mode of the vibrator in driving mode. Planar electrodes are arranged relative to the proof masses on a second base. The motion of the proof masses relative to the planar electrodes is sensed through the capacitance between the proof masses and the planar electrodes. The resonant structure with greater mass of the device generates greater Coriolis force and increases the sensing area. Thus, the intensity of sensed signals and noise-signal ratio are greatly increased. Furthermore, the device does not rely much on high aspect ratio manufacturing technology. Thus the manufacturing cost is reduced and the yield rate is increased.Type: GrantFiled: October 28, 2004Date of Patent: January 2, 2007Assignees: Chung Shan Institute of Science and Technology, Neostones Micro Fabrication CorporationInventors: Yuan Lo, Kye-Chyn Ho, Lung-Yung Lin, Chih-Wei Tseng, Schiu Sche
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Patent number: 7155979Abstract: An oversampling electromechanical modulator, including a micro-electromechanical sensor which has a first sensing capacitance and a second sensing capacitance and supplies an analog quantity correlated to the first sensing capacitance and to the second sensing capacitance; a converter stage, which supplies a first numeric signal and a second numeric signal that are correlated to the analog quantity; and a first feedback control circuit for controlling the micro-electromechanical sensor, which supplies an electrical actuation quantity correlated to the second numeric signal.Type: GrantFiled: July 16, 2002Date of Patent: January 2, 2007Assignee: STMicroelectronics S.r.l.Inventors: Ernesto Lasalandra, Fabio Pasolini, Valeria Greco
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Patent number: 7155980Abstract: A resonating pressure transducer operable to measure an applied pressure by measuring changes in a resonant frequency is disclosed. The pressure transducer comprises a plurality of diaphragms formed in a wafer of semi-conducting material between two layers, wherein each of the diaphragms is divided into a plurality of electrically isolated sections; a cavity in one of the covering layers opposite a corresponding one of the diaphragms, a first via formed through a selected one of the layers enables application of a potential to selected ones of the diaphragm sections; and a second via formed through a selected one of the layers enables transmission of a measure from selected ones of the diaphragm sections.Type: GrantFiled: January 7, 2005Date of Patent: January 2, 2007Assignee: Kulite Semiconductor Products, Inc.Inventor: Anthony D. Kurtz
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Patent number: 7155981Abstract: A strain sensor improved in detection accuracy without variation of bending stresses applied to the strain detecting element. The sensor substrate has a first fixing hole at one end and a second fixing hole at the other end, a detecting hole at the center, and at least one strain detecting element on the upper surface or lower surface thereof. The first fixing member is press-fitted into the first fixing hole. The second fixing member is press-fitted into the second fixing hole. The detecting member is press-fitted into the detecting hole. Further, when an external force is applied to the detecting member, strain generated due to the positional shift of the detecting member is detected by the strain detecting element with respect to the first fixing member and the second fixing member.Type: GrantFiled: September 12, 2002Date of Patent: January 2, 2007Assignee: Matsushita Electric Industrial Co., Ltd.Inventors: Akira Matsuura, Shinjiro Ueda, Toshiro Otobe, Yasunobu Kobayashi, Katsuhiko Omoto, Yasunori Matsukawa, Toshiharu Motofusa
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Patent number: 7155982Abstract: A testing apparatus receives a test component between a force introduction table and a pressure plate, which apply a compressive load to the component therebetween. First and second shear beams are secured to opposite vertical edges of the component to respectively introduce upwardly and downwardly directed shear forces into the component. The upwardly directed shear force is generated by a first hydraulic cylinder that is arranged above the pressure plate in a horizontally adjustable manner on a head frame, and that is connected to the first shear beam through two tension rod assemblies including tensile force measuring transducers. The downwardly directed shear force is generated by two second hydraulic cylinders that are arranged under the pressure plate and that are connected to the second shear beam by strut assemblies including compressive force measuring transducers. High shear loads can be applied in the same vertical plane as the compressive load.Type: GrantFiled: September 27, 2004Date of Patent: January 2, 2007Assignee: Airbus Deutschland GmbHInventors: Werner Oesmann, Jean-Charles Schleret, Andreas Kotzke, Peter Peters
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Patent number: 7155983Abstract: A magnetic flow metering device and method is disclosed for the measurement of corrosive flow streams. The device utilizes a unibody construction wherein the flow conduit is constructed entirely from an insulative, non-conducting material without resorting to a metallic outer housing. The portions of the electrodes in contact with the flow stream are made of a suitable conductive polymer material, resistant to the corrosive media. The electrodes also feature shields that are molded into the electrode assembly to reduce background electrical noise. The invention also utilizes an electrical configuration that actively drives the electrode shield circuit (electrodes as well as cabling) to provide a more accurate measurement of the electromotive force.Type: GrantFiled: February 4, 2005Date of Patent: January 2, 2007Assignee: Entegris, Inc.Inventors: David L. Wehrs, Robert T. Chinnock
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Patent number: 7155984Abstract: A rotational sensor includes a detection element accommodated in a case and detecting a rotational motion of a rotor located outside the case to output a rotational signal, a terminal physically and electrically connected to the detection element, a connecting member electrically connected to the terminal to output the rotational signal from the terminal outside the rotational sensor and an elastic body fitted into the case by press-fitting and through which the terminal is inserted.Type: GrantFiled: May 23, 2005Date of Patent: January 2, 2007Assignee: Aisin Seiki Kabushiki KaishaInventors: Noriaki Fujita, Kazuyoshi Tsuruta, Toshiyuki Matsuo
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Patent number: 7155985Abstract: A torque sensor for a vehicle steering system includes a voltage boosting circuit that boosts a voltage supplied from a power source, an oscillator, a current amplifier, an inverting current amplifier, first and second coils, first and second resistors, a differential amplifier, a sampling pulse generator that generates a sampling pulse, a synchronous wave detector that detects the AC voltage output from the first differential amplifier, a first sample-and-hold circuit section that samples and holds the voltage output from the first synchronous wave detector, and a voltage-current converter that converts the voltage output from the first sample-and-hold circuit section into current and outputs the current as a torque signal Ts, thereby stably supplying power to the torque sensor for a steering system.Type: GrantFiled: January 31, 2005Date of Patent: January 2, 2007Assignee: Hyundai Mobis Co., Ltd.Inventor: Seung-Ho Paek
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Patent number: 7155986Abstract: In a power fastening tool for fastening a fastening member such as a screw or a fastening member, malfunction that driving of a motor is stopped before the fastening member is fastened completely can be prevented. A fastening judger judges that the fastening operation is completed when a value of an estimated torque T for fastening the fastening member becomes larger than a predetermined lower limit value T1 previously set by a user and a value of a torque variation ratio ??T varies from positive to negative. Thus, it is possible to prevent malfunction for stopping driving of a motor even when the value of the torque variation ratio ??T varies from positive to negative due to trouble before the vale of the estimated torque T becomes larger than the lower limit value T1.Type: GrantFiled: October 13, 2004Date of Patent: January 2, 2007Assignee: Matsushita Electric Works, Ltd.Inventors: Kozo Kawai, Yoshinori Sainomoto, Tatsuhiko Matsumoto, Tadashi Arimura, Toshiharu Ohashi, Hiroshi Miyazaki, Hidenori Shimizu, Fumiaki Sawano
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Patent number: 7155987Abstract: An apparatus and method for load testing lifting containers and their related cable slings using a hydraulic jacking arrangement located within the container itself for equalized stress loading of the container and its cable slings and lifting eyes or points under various prescribed conditions. The apparatus being portable and expandable to accommodate various size containers, applies isometric loading throughout the structural containment without lifting the container off the deck or inducing external heavy loads. The jacking arrangement includes a structural frame assembly including adjustable frame legs or vertical columns, an optional extendable screw jack and a hydraulic ram to which cable slings are attached. Actuating the hydraulic ram applies tension to the cable slings and simultaneously to the frame legs or vertical columns straddling the container and inserted within the forklift slots or openings of the container skid in an opposing manner.Type: GrantFiled: June 22, 2005Date of Patent: January 2, 2007Inventor: David M. Tumlin
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Patent number: 7155988Abstract: An air particle sample cassette enables concurrent or sequential collection of air particle samples. The dual air particle sample cassette has top and bottom covers that fit together to provide an airtight seal between them. The airtight seal may be provided by adhesive or otherwise. However, a close fit between the two also aids in obtaining an airtight seal. The top cover has tapering inlets circumscribed by channels. The inlets taper to create increased air speed at the exit slit of the inlets. The inlets have rounded tops for greater collection of air and the circumscribing channels provide means by which plastic caps or otherwise may be used to protect the inlets from collecting air until desired. The sample plate or collecting slide is fitted to the bottom of the top cover and obstructs the direct flow of air to the exit port. The collecting slide is protected from contact with other cassette elements by spacers or sidewalls which generally leave the corners of the bottom cover open.Type: GrantFiled: June 22, 2004Date of Patent: January 2, 2007Assignee: Innovative Sampling Solutions, Inc.Inventors: Mark A. Cole, Thomas J. Johnston
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Patent number: 7155989Abstract: A test port assembly and method are utilized for returning air characteristics within a closed chamber. The test port assembly is positioned in an exterior wall or panel and as required the test port is opened by removing a threaded cap. A thermometer can then be inserted through the test port assembly and the temperature of the air within the chamber quickly determined.Type: GrantFiled: August 11, 2004Date of Patent: January 2, 2007Assignee: Environmental Air Systems, Inc.Inventors: Stewart J. Gerold, Ronald W. Gardner
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Patent number: 7155990Abstract: A formation test tool 10 for obtaining a downhole fluid sample from a formation of interest 30 and returning the sample to the surface of a well includes a cylinder 12 forming a fluid sample chamber therein, and a piston 20 sealingly movable within the cylinder and separating the fluid sample from a cushioning fluid. A fluid line 24 connects the formation of interest to the fluid sample chamber, and a valve 26 controls fluid flow along the fluid line. In one embodiment, a magnet 76 supported on the piston outputs signals indicative of the position of the piston and thus the volume of the fluid sample within the cylinder. A meter 74 is movable along the exterior of the cylinder 12 for determining the position of the magnet within the cylinder, such that the volume of sampled fluid in the cylinder can be determined at the surface.Type: GrantFiled: December 27, 2004Date of Patent: January 2, 2007Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.Inventor: Gregory N. Gilbert
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Patent number: 7155991Abstract: Novel methods for measuring the soothing attributes of personal care compositions are disclosed. The methods disclosed are particularly suitable for measuring and comparing the soothing attributes of facial tissue to determine which facial tissue is most soothing to damaged skin. The methods include damaging the skin of a test subject to a predetermined amount, contacting a test facial tissue with the damage skin, and rating the soothing attributes of the facial tissue. In a preferred embodiment, the amount of skin damage on the skin is determined by the test subject.Type: GrantFiled: August 2, 2005Date of Patent: January 2, 2007Assignee: Kimberly-Clark Worldwide, Inc.Inventors: Bernard J. Minerath, III, Elizabeth J. Buettner, Benjamin J. Kruchoski, Jason C. Cohen, Barry T. Reece, Kimberly M. Geiser
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Patent number: 7155992Abstract: A driving force transmission mechanism having a following rotation preventing mechanism that prevents a follower wheel from rotating together with a driving wheel in a play section is provided. Also, a damper apparatus that can drive two open-close plates independently from each other through the driving force transmission mechanism are provided. The following rotation preventing mechanism includes a cam member that rotates together with the follower wheel, and an elastic member that elastically presses a cam surface of the cam member. The cam surface has an arcuate section that slides against the elastic member in a linked movement section in which the follower wheel follows rotations of the driving wheel, small diameter sections on both sides of the arcuate section, and ridge sections that continuously connects the small diameter sections and the arcuate section without forming step differences.Type: GrantFiled: February 14, 2003Date of Patent: January 2, 2007Assignee: Nidec Sankyo CorporationInventor: Seiichiro Noritake
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Patent number: 7155993Abstract: A dual clutch transmission for a motor vehicle having a synchronizer actuation interlock system includes two input shafts, a counter shaft, and a plurality of gear sets rotatively disposed on the shafts. The gear sets are adapted to be operatively engaged to and disengaged from their respective shafts. A plurality of synchronizers are disposed about the gear sets and the synchronizers are adapted to operatively engage and disengage the gear sets to and from their respective shafts. A plurality of hydraulically actuated shift actuators are each operatively connected to one of the plurality of synchronizers. Each shift actuator is adapted to cause its respective synchronizer to engage and disengage its respective gear sets to and from their respective shaft and further adapted to provide a hydraulic interlock that prevents an associated shift actuator on the same shaft from hydraulically actuating when the shift actuator is already engaged.Type: GrantFiled: November 15, 2004Date of Patent: January 2, 2007Assignee: BorgWarner Inc.Inventors: Melissa Koenig, Graham Annear, William Vukovich
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Patent number: 7155994Abstract: A six-gear or seven-gear dual-clutch transmission (1, 30) comprising two clutches (K1, 2) the input sides of which are connected with one drive shaft (2) of a prime mover and the output sides with each one of two input shafts (3, 4) disposed coaxially to each other, two countershafts (4, 5) upon which gear wheels designed as idler wheels are rotatably supported, gear wheels designed upon input shaft (3, 33, 37) and in tooth contact with idler wheels (8, 9, 10, 15, 16, 17, 34, 35, 36), coupling devices (22, 23, 24, 25, 31, 32) non-rotatably and axially movably supported on both countershafts (5, 6), and movable via setting devices and one output gear wheel (18, 19) on a respective countershaft (5, 6) which are in tooth contact with a toothing (20) on one differential transmission (21).Type: GrantFiled: February 4, 2004Date of Patent: January 2, 2007Assignee: ZF Friedrichshafen AGInventor: Gerhard Gumpoltsberger
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Patent number: 7155995Abstract: An injection molded resin gear 1 has a rim 6 having teeth 7 on its outer periphery, a hub 4 for receiving therein a shaft, and a web 6 connecting the rim 6 to the hub 4. The thickness (t1) of the bottom 15 of the rim 6 is smaller than the thickness (t2) of the web 5. On the side faces 8 and 8 of the web 5, annular circumferential ribs 10, 11 and 12 protruding concentrically with the rim 6 and hub 4 are formed. The relationship between the thickness (t1) of the bottom 15 of the rim 6, the thickness (t2) of the web 5 and the thickness (t3) of the circumferential rib 12 is t1?t3<t2.Type: GrantFiled: August 26, 2003Date of Patent: January 2, 2007Assignee: Enplas CorporationInventor: Masaaki Ojima
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Patent number: 7155996Abstract: By blocking off a partial passage opening in a lubricating oil supply passage of a transmission gear mechanism by attaching a transmission holder, an operation to block off the passage opening is omitted. Supply of lubricating oil to a main shaft and a counter shaft of a transmission gear mechanism is carried out using branched passages from a main gallery, and the branched passage constitutes a lubricating oil supply passage to the main shaft while the branched passage constitutes a lubricating oil supply passage to the counter shaft. A partial passage opening of the branched passage is then blocked up at the time of attaching a transmission holder to the transmission case, and in this way a lubricating oil supply passage to the counter shaft is formed.Type: GrantFiled: April 5, 2004Date of Patent: January 2, 2007Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.Inventors: Hiroyuki Kawakubo, Toru Gunji
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Patent number: 7155997Abstract: The invention concerns a motor vehicle differential comprising a case including perforations; differential pinion shafts, each differential pinion shaft having an end accommodated by a perforation; and a cap; wherein the differential pinion shafts are locked in translation relative to the differential case by the cap, the cap being mounted on at least the part of the differential case traversed by the shafts so as to cover at least partially the perforations.Type: GrantFiled: February 6, 2003Date of Patent: January 2, 2007Assignee: Peugeot Citroen Automobiles S.A.Inventor: Franck Santelli
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Patent number: 7155998Abstract: A T-shaped ratchet wrench having a main body and a force-applying auxiliary arm. The main body includes a cross shaft and a working shaft. A ratchet driving mechanism having a change-over selector is disposed within an intersection position of both shafts. Each end of the cross shaft having an annular groove, and the working shaft has a polygonal head for inserting into a sleeve. Furthermore, the working shaft includes an annular groove in close vicinity to the cross shaft. The force-applying auxiliary arm includes an internal hole for mounting on either end of the working shaft or the cross shaft of the main body. The force-applying auxiliary arm has one end with an engaging socket and another end with a handle portion.Type: GrantFiled: July 8, 2005Date of Patent: January 2, 2007Inventor: Wen-Tsai Shyu