Abstract: A force-balance accelerometer having a pick-off coil responsive to displacement of a seismic mass from a balance position for providing an output corresponding to the displacement, includes a digital signal processor including tow pulse width modulation generators for converting the output of the pick-up coil to a digital signal, and a torque coil responsive to the digital signal for rebalancing the seismic mass by restoring the mass to the balance position. The processor outputs the digital signal as first and second PWM signals, which control the digital signal.

Abstract: An engine ECU executes a program including: the step of outputting a fuel-cut instruction when conditions that an accelerator position PA is not higher than a threshold value and a rate of increase DNE of engine speed NE is not lower than a determination value DNE(0) are satisfied; the step of fully closing throttle opening; and the step of suspending ignition of air-fuel mixture by a spark plug.

Abstract: Apparatus for determining and/or monitoring at least one physical or chemical, process variable of a medium and includes at least one mechanically oscillatable unit and at least one driving/receiving unit. The mechanically oscillatable unit includes a tube and an internal oscillator. The tube is connected to a securement unit with an end turned away from the process and the end of the tube turned toward the process is embodied as a free end. The tube surrounds the internal oscillator and the internal oscillator is secured to the end of the tube turned toward the process with an end turned toward the process. The driving/receiving unit excites the mechanically oscillatable unit to oscillate, respectively it receives the oscillations of the mechanically oscillatable unit. The internal oscillator has at least one groove/neck, which determines at least the oscillation frequency of the mechanically oscillatable unit.

Abstract: An acoustic wave sensing apparatus includes a substrate having a polished piezoelectric surface. An acoustic wave sensing device (filter, resonator, or delay line) is generally configured from the substrate, such that the polished piezoelectric surface is attachable to a polished metal shaft utilizing an adhesive that reduces hysteresis and creep and improves the performance of the acoustic wave sensing device. The metal shaft is preferably polished in order to reduce the localized stress and contact area associated with the piezoelectric surface of the acoustic wave sensing device and the metal shaft. The adhesive can be implemented as an epoxy adhesive that avoids direct-contact induced frequency instability associated with the contact area.

Abstract: Acoustic sensing devices, systems and methods are provided for monitoring emissions from machinery. Representative is an acoustic sensing device for transmitting to a measuring instrumentation detection signals indicative of sound wave levels from the machinery. A housing assembly is constructed for removable attachment between a surface mounting region of the machinery and the measuring instrument to define a coupled state. An acoustic emissions (AE) sensor is located in the housing assembly's interior and detects sound waves propagating through the surface mounting region to produce detection signals for processing. A mounting adapter may be employed to interface the housing assembly to the machinery's surface mounting region.

Abstract: A structurally tuned, vibration-based component checking system for detecting anomalies in a component of an assembly prior to the component being installed in the assembly is provided. The component checking system operates the component being tested at a speed that is different from the speed at which the component operates during normal use in the assembly, and also under a different load. To compensate for this difference in speed and load, the component checking system is structurally tuned such that a relationship exists between the modal frequencies and speed of operation of the component checking system and the modal frequencies and speed of operation of the assembly.

Abstract: An opto-acoustoelectric device encompasses a diaphragm having a diffraction grating, the diaphragm is susceptible to a vibration driven by an external force; a light source oriented to irradiate the diffraction grating; and a photo detector configured to detect the light diffracted by the diffraction grating and to convert the detected light into an electric signal. The electric signal corresponds to a displacement of the vibration in the diaphragm.

Abstract: A pressure sensor including: A pressure measuring cell having an end face loadable with the medium; a housing having a media opening and a ring-shaped, axial bearing surface, which surrounds the media opening; a clamping apparatus; and a ring-shaped sealing arrangement. The pressure measuring cell is positioned in the housing and the sealing arrangement is positioned between the bearing surface and the end face, and the sealing arrangement, as well as the pressure measuring cell, are axially clamped between the bearing surface and the clamping apparatus. The sealing arrangement includes, a decoupling ring, as well as a first and a second, ring-shaped sealing element. The first sealing element lies against the end face, the second sealing element lies against the bearing surface, and the decoupling ring is axially clamped between the first and the second sealing elements.

Abstract: A one piece needle and diaphragm system and method configured to measure in-cylinder pressure attributes is disclosed. The pressure monitoring diaphragm can also be configured to slide over the one piece needle and a housing assembly, thus eliminating an additional housing component and a welding operation from the current state of the art. Additionally, the one piece needle and diaphragm system can be used to measure both static and dynamic pressures in various combustion engine applications.

Abstract: A pressure capsule embedded in a pacemaker lead to monitor intracardiac chamber pressure is described. This pressure monitor capsule provides highly accurate pressure readings while insuring a high integrity seal against bodily fluids and tissue growth. The capsule is intended to be embedded into a pacemaker cardiac lead or a catheter with the distal (Tip) isolation diaphragm sensing pressure, coupling the pressure through an air column to a protected sensing MEMS device and providing a secure fluid seal to the lead walls. The proximal (Back) end of the capsule provides the electrical interface through the lead to the pacemaker pulse generator.

Abstract: A pressure sensor 100 suitable for being fitted to or embedded in a tyre comprises an integrated circuit 101 mounted on a lead frame 102, the integrated circuit 101 incorporating a pressure sensing element. A gel blob 103 covers the pressure sensing element of the integrated circuit 101. The integrated circuit 101, lead frame 102 and gel blob 103 are encapsulated within a plastic moulded package 104. An opening 106 is provided in the plastic package 104 through which the gel blob 103 is exposed to the atmosphere. The gel blob 103, being flexible is able to transfer the pressure of the atmosphere to the pressure sensing element. A filter 105 covers the opening 106 in order to prevent the ingress of water or harmful substances into the aperture. In alternative embodiments, the gel blob 103 may be removed.

Abstract: A device, system, and method for measuring torque, comprising an acoustic wave device removably attached to a rotatable shaft by a variably-shaped retainer, wherein removal of the acoustic wave device with the variably-shaped retainer facilitates servicing and replacement of the torque measurement device. The acoustic wave device can be removably attached to the rotatable shaft by using one or more connectors. Other acoustic wave devices such as acoustic wave resonators, surface acoustic wave delay lines, surface acoustic wave filters, and surface transverse waves can also be removably attached to the rotatable shaft to measure torque.

Abstract: A fixture for measuring the elongation of a specimen includes a base. The base carries a fixture portion, and the fixture portion is provided with a surface adapted to receive a portion of the specimen.

Abstract: A seat load detecting apparatus 10 for detecting a load acting on a seat 1, using load detecting means 21, 31, 40 and 49, in which latching rods 15 and 16 for lining up and latching one end of a plurality of cushion springs 17 and 27 that give cushioning to the seat 1 are provided in a seat cushion frame 11 that forms a seat skeleton, with a flexible member 21 arranged between the latching rod 15 and the seat cushion frame 11.

Abstract: The two housing parts are used as springing means which are mounted behind each other, thereby extending the full spring path. Despite the soft springs obtained by the housing, the individual housing parts can be manufactured from a stable material so that they remain dimensionally stable over a long-term period even when subjected to heavy stress by virtue of the fact that they are arranged between a vehicle seat and the chassis of the vehicle, thereby meeting the high quality standards required by the vehicle industry. Complex successive positioning of the springs inside the housing is avoided. As a result, it is possible to produce a force measuring device which is particularly compact, stable and economical. A coil with a core is used as an inductive deflection sensor.

Abstract: This invention refers to a glued or heat-sealed cap for resealing test tubes for clinical analyses which can be easily perforated and permits the application of a second cap.

Abstract: A bed of particulate solids is fluidized in a test chamber to yield multiple test samples for subsequent evaluation of segregation effects. A controlled stream of gas enters the chamber in a series of flow rate cycles each progressively increasing to a maximum rate of gas flow and then decreasing, the maximum rate increasing for successive cycles. An indicating function is formed from measurements of corresponding rates of gas flow and pressure across the bed. Upon termination of the fluidization, multiple samples are sequentially extracted from a single space at the bottom of the test chamber.

Abstract: A pig for determining characteristics of a pipeline wall though which the pig passes has a sensor body that includes wear-resistant parts. The wear resistant parts contain polyurethane and have surfaces that are configured to contact the pipeline wall. At least one wear resistant part also includes a non-conductive hard filler.

Abstract: This invention involves a new housing for a liquid level detection device. More particularly, the new stillwell apparatus comprises, at least one tubular section, a means for extending the length of the stillwell, a conduit for delivering a cleansing solution to the bottom of the tubular sections, a gas inlet tube for determination of the presence of hazardous gases, and a means for pressure equalization. In addition this invention reveals novel installation, removal and cleansing methods making it possible to install, remove, and cleanse the stillwell from an exterior of a vessel, thereby eliminating the need for highly trained personnel to enter the vessel in order to install, maintain, cleanse, or remove the stillwell.

Abstract: There is provided a shift control device for an automated manual transmission having power transmission lines equipped with respective start clutches and gears. The shift control device includes clutch actuation mechanisms and a transmission shift controller that causes the clutch actuation mechanisms to regulate the clutch engagement forces applied to the start clutches so as to perform clutch changeover upon gear selection for a desired gear range in response to a transmission shift command. Each of the clutch actuation mechanisms has primary and secondary clutch engagement force regulation units.

Abstract: An automated manual transmission to which a shift position sensor of the present invention is practically applied has a hydraulic shift actuator that includes a cylinder and a piston that moves in the cylinder in accordance with a speed change operation of the transmission. The shift position sensor comprises a magnet mounted in the piston to move therewith, and a magnaflux detector mounted to a fixed member of the transmission near the hydraulic shift actuator to detect a magnaflux produced by the magnet. The cylinder is so constructed as to cover the magnet even when the piston is subjected to a stroke in the cylinder.

Abstract: A height-adjustable implant is designed to be inserted between vertebral bodies, and includes a first and a second sleeve part. The second sleeve part carries an external thread and is inserted with a longitudinal section thereof in the first sleeve part in a rotationally fixed and axially movable manner. On its longitudinal section projecting from the first sleeve part, the second sleeve part is encompassed by a nut that engages with the external thread. The nut carries a toothed ring. The invention also relates to a tool for handling the implant.

Abstract: A device for pressing a gear rack against a pinion meshing with the gear rack, e.g., in a rack-and-pinion steering system for a motor vehicle, includes a thrust piece, which is loaded by a spring in the direction of the gear rack and is slidably guided in a housing. The thrust piece takes the form of a sintered part, which has a plurality of depressions on its circumferential surface. The regions of the circumferential surface, which are elevated with respect to the depressions, produce the contact of the thrust piece with the housing.

Abstract: A roller screw includes: a screw shaft 1 having an outer peripheral surface in which a spiral roller rolling groove 1a is formed; a nut member 2 having an inner peripheral surface in which a spiral loaded roller rolling groove 2a is formed so as to oppose to the roller rolling groove 1a; a return pipe 4 connecting one and another ends of a loaded roller rolling groove 2a of the nut member 2; and a plurality of rollers 6 disposed in the loaded roller rolling passage 3 and the return pipe 4. A spacer 31 is disposed between a pair of adjacent rollers 6, 6 so as to prevent the paired rollers 6, 6 from contacting each other. According to such roller screw, the rollers can be smoothly circulated without causing any skew.

Abstract: Gripping devices for use with equestrian riding equipment are provided. The gripping device comprises a traction causing layer coated on one surface with a pressure-sensitive adhesive layer, which is covered by a release liner. The gripping device is applied to any surface involved in an interface between the rider and the horse or saddle. For example, the gripping device may be applied to the saddle, the riding boots or the chaps. The gripping devices are also used with non-equestrian equipment, such as surfboards, medical transport equipment, and personal motor crafts.

Abstract: A platform actuator includes a substrate, a first, a second, and a third spherical input slider-crank mechanism, wherein each of the first, second, and third spherical input slider crank mechanism is coupled by a first end to said substrate, and a platform is coupled to a second end of each of the first, second, and third spherical input slider-cranks. According to one exemplary embodiment, each of the first, second, and third spherical input slider-crank mechanisms are configured to convert in-plane motion to out-of-plane motion.

Abstract: A steering wheel or other component for motor vehicle interiors, is produced by pressure thermoforming an external layer of decorative material, together with an internal structural layer of support material that includes a matrix of thermoplastic material and a plurality of reinforcing fibers for the thermoplastic matrix. The matrix may be of polymer that impregnates the fabric or made of fabrics that are interwoven or mixed with the reinforcing fibers.

Abstract: A plurality of balancing structures are disposed in weight accommodation holes which extend in a radial direction and spaced at equal angles in a rotating plate constituting part of a rotating body on which a rotation object is mounted. A balancing weight having a male thread is disposed in each weight accommodation hole and is screwed into a female thread formed in the accommodation hole. A spring adjoining the weight is compressed by a stopper fixed in the weight accommodation hole at the outer end of the rotating plate. The weight can be turned with a tool inserted through holes provided in the spring and stopper to adjust the radial position of the weight and thereby balance the rotating body.

Abstract: A pedal device for rotatable attachment to a crank arm, wherein the pedal has a pedal body with engagement sides which each have a bracket adapted for possible engagement with a functional part designed for cooperation with a user's foot. One of the engagement sides of the pedal body has a first bracket adapted to a fastening piece for the functional part for use during the performance of conventional training exercise. The opposite engagement side of the pedal body has a second bracket adapted to said fastening piece for the functional part for limited tiltability about an axis that extends transverse to the longitudinal axis of the pedal shaft. The functional part may be a shoe or a foot engagement part, e.g., a foot plate.

Abstract: A double clutch transmission is described that ideally changes torque received from an engine and a motor by providing an optimal layout in power transmission scheme and motor location. Such a double clutch transmission is optimally adapted to a hybrid electric vehicle, and an optimal operation method for such a double clutch transmission is also provided, overcoming inefficiency in application of a conventional CVT to an HEV.

Abstract: Composite particle comprising a zinc containing compound such as zinc oxide and a noble metal such a platinum, and process for fabrication thereof. The particles facilitate simultaneous controlled introduction of the zinc and noble metal species into a nuclear reactor.

Abstract: Process for desulphating a solid mixture and/or aggregate resulting from the breaking up of lead-acid batteries, comprising electrode slime containing lead compounds belonging to the group comprising oxides, oxidated compounds and sulphates, through contact with an aqueous solution of sodium carbonate and a substance dissolving lanarkite in which the said solid residues containing lead compounds are suspended, in which the solid phase of the suspension is subjected to a chemical reaction whose action is assisted by brushing, shear and compression forces exerted by brushing or scraping and compressing mechanical means, thus achieving almost total desulphatation.

Abstract: A method of recovering at least one base metal from a concentrate wherein a residue of a primary bioleach of the concentrate, under mesophilic and moderate themophilic conditions, is processed to recover at least one metal, and the base metal is recovered from a solution, produced by a secondary bioleach under thermophilic conditions, of a residue of the metal recovery process.

Abstract: A tattoo machine, comprising at least one elongated hollow body inside which there is a cavity for containing a coloring liquid that is connected to the outside by means of a hole provided at one end of the hollow body, a needle that can slide in a reciprocating fashion along the hole, and elements for moving the needle between a first end position, in which the needle protrudes at least partially from the hollow body, and a second end position, in which the needle is completely accommodated within the hollow body, the movement elements comprising a motor that can be associated with the needle by interposing motion transmission elements provided with a flexible cable, a first end of which can be associated with the motor and a second end of which can be associated with the needle.

Abstract: The invention includes an attachment for a socket wrench that is capable of imparting torque about an axis simultaneously in opposite directions. The invention also includes a method for imparting torque about an axis simultaneously in opposite directions.

Abstract: An air motor socket wrench has an air motor secured to a housing of a socket drive assembly having a socket drive member provided with a socket lock ball movable between a socket lock position and a socket unlock position. A hexagon body has inwardly inclined ramp sections adjacent an inside continuous cylindrical wall of a yoke drivably connected to the motor to oscillate the yoke. Rollers located between the ramp sections and cylindrical wall of the yoke transmits rotational movement of the yoke to the body and socket drive member. A muffler mounted on the air motor reduces the noise generated by the air motor.

Abstract: The wrench comprises a handle that is pivotably connected to a body portion. The body portion supports a fixed jaw. A movable jaw is slidably supported on the body portion such that the movable jaw can move relative to the fixed jaw to vary the spacing between the jaws. When the handle is rotated in a first direction the spacing between the jaws increases to allow the jaws to slip over a work piece and provide a ratchet function. When the handle is rotated in a second direction opposite to the first direction the movable jaw is moved towards the fixed jaw to close on and grip the workpiece. In one embodiment a link moves the movable jaw relative to the fixed jaw and forms part of an dead/over-center locking mechanism.

Abstract: A wrench that includes a handle and a tool head. The tool head is positionable in a plurality of positions relative to the handle. The wrench is useful in installing and repairing shower drains and sink drains and other similar drain arrangements.

Abstract: A handle for use in conjunction with wrench heads comprises apertures for receiving a user's fingers enabling a user to use the wrench head without having to exert constant pressure on the handle and a shorter length than conventional wrench handles thereby enabling access hard to reach areas. The handle further comprises a more ergonomic grip as compared with conventional tool handles. Additional embodiments of the handle provide alternative shapes which enable a user to apply more force at the tool while applying less force to the handle.

Abstract: A screwdriver having a retention mechanism for temporarily holding a screw in place on it tip while the screw is being positioned, rotated or removed. More particularly, a screwdriver with a cruciform head used in the installation and removal of bone screws during maxillofacial surgery.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for automatically adjusting the orientation of a workpiece before feeding the workpiece to a saw. The apparatus includes a first conveying means for moving a workpiece transversely while measuring the profile every foot for the length. Stopping the workpiece to automatically adjust the workpiece by vertically lifting one end and horizontally moving the other end.

Abstract: System, including apparatus and method, involves processing materials in opposite directions between two machines along a processing path.

Abstract: A method for severing a solid-oxide fuel cell bi-layer element including a structural anode and an electrolyte layer, comprising the steps of orienting the bi-layer element such that the surface thereof is accessible to laser treatment; impinging a laser beam on the electrolyte surface; moving the impinged laser beam past the surface along a path in a plane corresponding to the desired severed edge to form a groove in the element extending partially through the element to a predetermined depth; and applying a bending moment across the groove to cause the element to break into first and second portions. The groove depth is preferably about 15% of the total thickness of the element.

Abstract: Systems and methods for trimming a roll of sheet material are provided. A representative system incorporates a core anchor that is configured to be inserted into the hollow core of a roll of sheet material and removably secured therein. The system also includes a cutting tool rotatably attached to the core anchor. During trimming of a roll of sheet material to which the core anchor is secured, the core anchor rotates with the roll as the roll is rotated.

Abstract: Woodworking machines and safety methods for use with those machines are disclosed. The machines include a detection system adapted to detect one or more dangerous conditions and a reaction system associated with the detection system. The reaction system can include an explosive to trigger the system, and also can be configured to retract a cutting tool at least partially away from a cutting region upon detection of a dangerous condition by the detection system.

Abstract: A cutting apparatus having a cutting blade is designed for reliable recognition of a state, such as chipping or wear, occurring in the cutting blade. The cutting apparatus at least includes cutting means having the cutting blade for cutting a workpiece held on a chuck table while supplying a cutting fluid to the workpiece, and blade detection means for detecting the state of the cutting blade. The blade detection means at least includes an imaging section for imaging an outer peripheral edge portion of the cutting blade, a light emitting section confronting the imaging section and disposed at a position facing the outer peripheral edge portion of the cutting blade, an image processing section for processing an image obtained by the imaging section, and a blinking control section for blinking the light emitting section. Since the light emitting section confronts the imaging section, contrast between a portion in the obtained image blocked by the cutting blade and a portion not blocked thereby becomes distinct.

Abstract: The invention relates to a cutting device having a cutting unit for dividing a strip from a material web running in a transport direction relative to the cutting device, and having a base support that defines a cutting section for supporting the material web during the division of the strip, and a supporting section, the supporting section being formed and arranged in such a way that it supports the material web and the strip as they are transported away out of the cutting section in the transport direction, wherein the supporting section has a cutout which extends and is formed in such a way that the cut edge of the material web and/or the cut edge of the strip are not supported on the supporting section, at least in some sections, as they are transported away out of the cutting section.

Abstract: Disclosed is an ampule cutting apparatus including an ampule cutting unit for housing and cutting an ampule head, a object collecting unit for sucking the cut ampule head and minute flakes generated in the ampule cutting operation with the air, and separating the objects from the air, a negative pressure generating device for applying a negative pressure to the object collecting unit; and a collecting unit for collecting the objects sucked by the object collecting unit.

Abstract: A stripper unit incorporates a precision threaded plug that preloads a mechanical die spring that, in turn, preloads the movable or traveling stripper adjacent the punch tip. The precision threaded plug simultaneously accurately locates the stripper unit on a commercially available ball-lock punch retainer. The stripper unit is entirely self-contained on the face of the ball-lock punch retainer, thus minimizing the space required on the press platen.

Abstract: A cutting apparatus for cutting sheets of paper, plastic, or the like, has a carriage for sliding along a rail, a cassette holder engageable with the carriage, and a cassette encasing a cutting blade and co-operable with the carriage, when held by the cassette holder, to expose a cutting edge of the cutting blade during engagement of the cassette holder with the carriage. The cassette, which may be separate from the carriage, has a rotary cutting blade and a cover covering the blade.