Patents Issued in March 22, 2007
  • Publication number: 20070062287
    Abstract: An apparatus for separating an analyte from a mixture or for detecting an analyte or for determining the affinity, or a property related to affinity, between binding partners is described. The apparatus comprises: a) a surface having the analyte or one of the binding partners immobilised thereon, in use; b) a transducer for oscillating the surface; c) a controller connected to the transducer for varying the amplitude and/or frequency of the oscillation to cause a dissociation event; and. d) an analyser connected to the transducer for detecting an oscillation of the transducer due to the dissociation event. The controller includes an oscillator connected in a resonant circuit with the transducer such that the transducer oscillates at two frequencies simultaneously, one of these causing the transducer to oscillate the surface and the other being supplied as an output to the analyser.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 14, 2004
    Publication date: March 22, 2007
    Inventor: Victor Ostanin
  • Publication number: 20070062288
    Abstract: In a method and a device for the detection of at least one structure-borne acoustic vibration in a component of an agricultural harvesting machine, a timer is used to determine a transit-time difference of a structure-borne acoustic vibration that is received by at least a first structure-borne sound sensor and at least a second structure-borne sound sensor and, based on the transit-time difference, a source of the structure-borne acoustic vibration is determined, thereby enabling the location of the pulses triggering the structure-borne acoustic vibration to be identified.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 23, 2006
    Publication date: March 22, 2007
    Inventors: Willi Behnke, Markus Brune
  • Publication number: 20070062289
    Abstract: Acoustic weight or mass sensing technology (referred to here as Acoustic Weigh In Motion (AWIN)) provides accurate weighing of any type of moving load moving over a load bearing medium. Acoustic transducers are affixed to or embedded in the load bearing medium. One or more source acoustic transducers propagate an acoustic wave over an acoustic path through the medium between the source and receiver transducers when the medium is in an unloaded state. The wave is detected at one or more receiving acoustic transducers. A propagation time delay is determined for the unloaded state. When a moving load travels over the acoustic path in the medium, the acoustic propagation time delay for that loaded state is determined. The difference between the acoustic propagation time delays for the unloaded and loaded states is determined. That acoustic propagation time delay difference is used to determine the weight or mass of the moving load.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 31, 2006
    Publication date: March 22, 2007
    Applicant: Luna Innovations Incorporated
    Inventors: Joseph Heyman, John Lynch
  • Publication number: 20070062290
    Abstract: Drive mechanisms are provided for a mechanically scanned ultrasound transducer or wobbler. The size, weight, and shape of a wobbler transducer are more optimized by positioning a drive shaft of a motor orthogonal to an array rather than parallel with the array. Different devices may be used for transferring the force of the rotational movement of the motor to the array. A linear bushing transfers rotation motion of an arm connected with a motor to rotational motion of an arm connected with an array in one such device. In another device, a cam transfers rotational motion of the motor to rotational motion of the array.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 30, 2005
    Publication date: March 22, 2007
    Inventors: Yongrae Roh, Sanghan Lee, Ohbum Kwon, Susung Lee, Kookjin Kang, Jeongdong Woo, Hyungkeun Lee, Jooheon Seon
  • Publication number: 20070062291
    Abstract: A vibration analysing device for determining the vibrational response of a structural element, comprising: a vibration sensor for providing an output in response to a force input imparted to the structural element; processing means adapted to determine one of a plurality of classifications in response to the output, each classification corresponding to a condition of the structural element; and display means for displaying the determined classification.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 16, 2005
    Publication date: March 22, 2007
    Inventors: D.H. Mitchell, I.A. Hutchison
  • Publication number: 20070062292
    Abstract: An ultrasonic sensor mounting structure includes an ultrasonic sensor and a wall member to which the ultrasonic sensor is mounted. The ultrasonic sensor includes an ultrasonic transducer and a vibrating surface. An inner surface of the wall member has a fixation portion where the ultrasonic sensor is fixed, a touch portion where the ultrasonic transducer touches, and a location mark portion that indicates location of the fixation portion. An outer surface of the wall member has a vibration portion as the vibrating surface of the ultrasonic sensor. The vibration portion is positioned opposite to the touch portion. The ultrasonic sensor can be accurately mounted in a desired location on the wall member without a reduction in a sensor characteristic, because the location mark portion does not overlap the touch portion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 22, 2006
    Publication date: March 22, 2007
    Applicant: DENSO CORPORATION
    Inventors: Yoshihisa Sato, Muneaki Matsumoto
  • Publication number: 20070062293
    Abstract: A single axis vibration test system includes a vibration force generator or “shaker” which optionally can be used with a head expander, and separate pairs of hydrostatic self-aligning sliding bearings connecting two large reaction masses to the head expander. Preload forces are applied by separate preload pistons supported on a preload ring surrounding the shaker. Preload forces are transmitted by the preload ring to the sliding bearings to clamp the head expander directly to the reaction masses, which resists lateral and rotational motions during vertical axis testing. The reaction masses are supported on resilient supports carried on a sub-structure rigidly affixed to ground, avoiding a rigid connection between the preload ring and ground which in turn avoids unwanted mechanical resonances within the operational frequency range of the system during use.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 17, 2005
    Publication date: March 22, 2007
    Inventor: Douglas Lund
  • Publication number: 20070062294
    Abstract: The present invention aims at providing a pressure sensor having excellent reliability in sealing a pressure reference chamber and a method for manufacturing the pressure sensor. A movable electrode is formed on an opposing surface side of a diaphragm formed on a pressure-receiving substrate, and an opposing electrode is formed on a region opposing the movable electrode on an opposing substrate. From the movable electrode, a conductive film, and a terminal wire on an inner surface of a through-hole are arranged as conductive wires (lead wires). In addition, from the opposing electrode, a lead wire, a conductive film opposing the lead wire and constructing a contact point, a conductive film and a terminal wire of a castellation are arranged as conductive wires. The pressure-receiving substrate and the opposing substrate are anodically bonded together via the conductive films and, and a specific region including the opposing surface side of the diaphragm is sealed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 23, 2006
    Publication date: March 22, 2007
    Applicant: Seiko Epson Corporation
    Inventor: Jun WATANABE
  • Publication number: 20070062295
    Abstract: A pressure sensor for sensing a fluid pressure in harsh environments such as the air pressure in a tire formed on a wafer substrate. Associated circuitry deposited in CMOS layers on the wafer substrate has a conductive layer at least partially overlying the associated circuitry, the conductive layer forming a first electrode of the capacitative sensor. A conductive membrane at least partially overlies the conductive layer, and is spaced from it to form a second electrode of the capacitative sensor. The conductive membrane has one side exposed to the fluid pressure and the conductive layer is sealed from the fluid pressure by the conductive membrane such that, the associated circuitry converts the deflection of the conductive membrane into an output signal indicative of the fluid pressure. The conductive membrane is at least partially formed from a ceramic material to provide corrosion and wear resistance.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 20, 2006
    Publication date: March 22, 2007
    Inventors: Kia Silverbrook, Samuel Mallinson
  • Publication number: 20070062296
    Abstract: A pressure sensor (30) for environments with wide ranging temperatures such as vehicle tires. The sensor has a conductive sensor membrane (53) exposed to the fluid pressure to be sensed, and a similarly conductive reference membrane subject to a predetermined pressure difference. Both membranes are connected to circuitry that converts the deflection in the sensor membrane into an output signal indicative of the pressure difference across the sensor membrane, and converts the deflection of the reference membrane into a thermal expansion compensation value used to adjust the output signal in response to temperature variations in the pressure sensor's environment.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 27, 2006
    Publication date: March 22, 2007
    Inventors: Kia Silverbrook, Samuel Mallinson
  • Publication number: 20070062297
    Abstract: A standard industrial pressure gauge is adapted for a sanitary conduit that has been provided with a tubular stub for mounting the gauge. A cylinder has a disk flange that mates with an upper flange of the tubular stub. A cap closes off the top of the cylinder, and a female threaded nipple is affixed on the cap over an aperture through the cap. A piston has one or a pair of O-ring seals seated on the circumferential surface of the piston, with the piston having at least a limited range of motion within the cylinder. The gauge is fitted into the threads of the nipple, and the space above the piston and through the aperture and the nipple is filled with an incompressible fluid. In one embodiment, there is a leak detector hole in the cylinder wall aligned with the space between the two O-rings.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 20, 2005
    Publication date: March 22, 2007
    Inventor: Robert Feldmeier
  • Publication number: 20070062298
    Abstract: A punch is provided with a detection system for evaluating crack defects in waste material removed during a clipping operation. The punch includes a clip ring and a clip insert for shearing excess material from a part processed therein. The excess material is engaged around the clip ring when sheared from the part. Frictional resistance between the waste material and the clip ring is evaluated in determining potential crack defects in the waste material.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 16, 2005
    Publication date: March 22, 2007
    Inventors: Glenn Heavens, Brian Putetti
  • Publication number: 20070062299
    Abstract: A solution for monitoring a property of an object and/or an area using a Micro-ElectroMechanical Systems (MEMS)-based monitoring device is provided. In an embodiment of the invention, the MEMS-based monitoring device includes a MEMS-based sensing device for obtaining data based on a property of the object and/or area and a power generation device that generates power from an ambient condition of the monitoring device. In this manner, the monitoring device can operate independent of any outside power sources or other devices. Further, the monitoring device can include a transmitter that transmits a signal based on the property. The monitoring device can be used to monitor a moving component of a machine, and can be integrated with a health monitoring system of the machine using one or more relay devices.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 15, 2006
    Publication date: March 22, 2007
    Inventors: Zahid Mian, Ryk Spoor
  • Publication number: 20070062300
    Abstract: A new family of multifunctional smart coatings based on of stabilized diamond-like metal carbon atomic scale composites and diamond-like atomic-scale composite (DL ASC) materials. Based on a unique combination of the coating fine structure, properties of the coating/substrate interface, and the mechanical and electrical properties of the coating, the disclosed smart coatings would integrate various high resolution sensors and interconnections, and the sensor would diagnose dangerous stress distribution in the coated subject with no distortion in real time, while these diamond-like coatings would simultaneously provide environmental protection of the coated surface and improve its aerodynamic quality.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 11, 2006
    Publication date: March 22, 2007
    Inventor: Benjamin Dorfman
  • Publication number: 20070062301
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a sensor (10) for sensing the interface pressure between two bodies, the sensor having at least two intercommunicating detection zones (11), each detection zone being formed inside an inflatable envelope (12) for interposing between said bodies and having two opposite regions whose spacing apart depends on the interface pressure between said bodies, each detection zone including a detector (15a, 15b) arranged to deliver information associated with the spacing between the opposite regions (12a, 12b).
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 29, 2004
    Publication date: March 22, 2007
    Inventors: Andre Dittmar, Georges Delhomme, Claudine Gehin
  • Publication number: 20070062302
    Abstract: The invention relates to a force and angle sensor for measuring the angle of rotation of a shaft (3) and a force exerted on a torsion rod (303), which interconnects two shaft parts (32, 33) of the shaft (3). In a housing (2), through which the shaft (3) runs, are arranged a main circuit board (4) arranged non-rotatably in relation to the housing (2) and which has a central opening (12), through which the shaft (3) runs, a first circuit board (5) for measuring the angle of rotation arranged non-rotatably on a first shaft part (32) on one side of the main circuit board (4), said first circuit board having a central opening (51) through which the first shaft part (32) runs, and a second circuit board (6) for measuring the force connected non-rotatably to the other shaft part (33) on the other side of the main circuit board (4), said second circuit board having a central opening (51) through which the other shaft part (33) runs.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 9, 2006
    Publication date: March 22, 2007
    Inventors: Joseph Khoury, Hans-Juergen Walther, Juergen Korn
  • Publication number: 20070062303
    Abstract: Systems and methods are disclosed for automating asphalt mix design by running one or more tests on the mix design using computer controlled equipment; digitally collecting data for each run using the computer controlled equipment; and selecting an optimum mix based on the collected data.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 8, 2006
    Publication date: March 22, 2007
    Inventors: David Martinez, Elias Eldahdah
  • Publication number: 20070062304
    Abstract: 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: Application
    Filed: November 14, 2006
    Publication date: March 22, 2007
    Inventors: David Wehrs, Robert Chinnock
  • Publication number: 20070062305
    Abstract: A flowmeter for measuring a flow velocity of a fluid in a pipeline includes a measuring tube having opposite ends. Two ultrasonic transducers are disposed respectively at the opposing ends of the measuring tube, and two connection pipes are provided for attachment of the flowmeter to the pipeline and extend in axial relationship to the pipeline.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 31, 2006
    Publication date: March 22, 2007
    Applicant: GEMÜ Gebr. Müller Apparatebau GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventor: Fritz Muller
  • Publication number: 20070062306
    Abstract: A fluid sensor assembly is provided for sensing a fluid property in-line. The assembly includes a body with a port for connecting the body to a fluid line and internal passage connecting the first port to a second port. The assembly also includes a sensor interface portion attached to the body and a fluid sensor that interfaces with the sensor interface portion. The fluid sensor includes a sensing element that communicates with the internal passage via the second port. The sensor and the body are fixably attached by an attaching portion to form a single, integrated part.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 16, 2005
    Publication date: March 22, 2007
    Inventors: Andrea Morrison, Tim Beckwith, Mark Sciulli, John Bias, Duane Johnson, Jeffrey Krause
  • Publication number: 20070062307
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for measuring the flow rate of a fluid within tubing disposed within a downhole wellbore. The present invention provides an inverse Venturi meter inserted within tubing with an enlarged inner diameter portion. Pressure differential is measured between the enlarged inner diameter portion and another portion of the inverse Venturi meter. Flow rate is determined from the pressure differential and the density of the fluid.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 19, 2006
    Publication date: March 22, 2007
    Inventor: Richard Jones
  • Publication number: 20070062308
    Abstract: The invention concerns a Coriolis mass flowmeter comprising at least one conduit (9) traversed by the mass, which produces mechanical vibrations under the effect of an excitation unit (8) and acts as an oscillating element, whereof the oscillating behaviour which varies based on the mass flow rate is sensed by at least one sensor (15, 16) to determine the mass flow. The invention aims at determining the degree of wear of the conduit (9). Therefor, the excitation unit (8) applies a single excitation pulse to the conduit (9), whereof the oscillatory response is sensed by the sensor (15; 16). The invention is characterized in that an evaluating unit (10) arranged downstream calculates the initial dampening constant recorded when the conduit (9) was new.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 30, 2004
    Publication date: March 22, 2007
    Inventor: Lothar Deppe
  • Publication number: 20070062309
    Abstract: A device for measuring the mass rate of flow which operates according to the Coriolis principle, with a measurement tube (1) and a magnet coil (7) of a bobbin (9) and a winding (10) attached to it for exciting and/or detecting vibrations of the measurement tube (1). The bobbin (9) of the magnet coil (7) has a specific thermal conductivity of at least 1 W/(K m). This enables the heat which forms in the magnet coil (7) to be efficiently dissipated to the surrounding vicinity without cooling elements, such as cooling fins, being necessary. In this way, the efficiency of the device for measuring the mass rate of flow using the Coriolis principle is altogether improved.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 10, 2006
    Publication date: March 22, 2007
    Applicant: Krohne AG
    Inventor: Lawrence DAVIES
  • Publication number: 20070062310
    Abstract: A hand tool includes a handle and a function end wherein a driving member is rotatably engaged with a through hole defined in the function end so as to output a torque to tighten or loosen an object. A ratchet mechanism including a pawl for engaging with the driving member is connected to the function end and two ends of the pawl member are alternatively in contact with two end walls of a recess for receiving the pawl member. Two detection members are respectively connected to the two end walls of the recess so that when outputting torque, the two ends of the pawl member contact against the two detection members which are piezo-electric switches and electrically connected to a data processing unit and a display unit connected to the handle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 19, 2005
    Publication date: March 22, 2007
    Inventor: Chih-Ching Hsieh
  • Publication number: 20070062311
    Abstract: A torque sensor assembly includes a reduced hysteresis by imparting a magnetoelastic ring with a first remnant magnetic field and a second remnant magnetic field that are disposed in opposite orientations. The first and second magnetic fields are spaced apart such that a third magnetic field is created within the magnetoelastic ring. The third magnetic field is a loosely pinned magnetic domain that imparts a negative hysteresis within the magnetoelastic ring. The negative hysteresis imparted to the magnetoelastic ring provides for the countering of positive hysteresis created by the application of torque.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 22, 2005
    Publication date: March 22, 2007
    Applicant: Siemens VDO automotive corporation
    Inventor: David Cripe
  • Publication number: 20070062312
    Abstract: A method and device for reducing hysteresis in a torque transducer element includes a coil that is excited with an alternating current to produce a magnetic field that saturates the torque transducer element. Magnetic saturation of the torque transducer element is provided by an alternating frequency that exceeds any coercive force of the material. The alternating current is slowly reduced to substantially reduce undesired magnetic field. The coil assembly is excited with an amplitude frequency in such a manner as to remove only those components of the magnetic field that are not desired.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 22, 2005
    Publication date: March 22, 2007
    Applicant: Siemens VDO Automotive Corporation
    Inventor: David Cripe
  • Publication number: 20070062313
    Abstract: Sidestream gas sampling assembly that does not substantially degrade the waveform of expired gases. The gas sampling assembly includes a sample cell portion integrated with a filter portion for separating undesired liquid condensate from respiratory gases to be monitored. The gas sampling assembly is configured to receive expired gases through a gas sampling line, filter undesired liquid condensate from the expired gases through hydrophobic fiber elements and communicate the filtered gases to a sample chamber which is in close proximity to the filter where measurements may be taken thereof e.g., optical or infrared sensing mechanisms. The gases that are substantially free of liquid condensate are then exhausted from the sample chamber.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 11, 2006
    Publication date: March 22, 2007
    Inventors: David Rich, Brian Fudge, Patrick Tuxbury, Kirk Johnson
  • Publication number: 20070062314
    Abstract: The invention relates to a syringe block (1) comprising a plurality of syringes (2) and a collector (3), the syringes each having a suction volume, and the collector comprising electromagnetic valves. First tubes directly link the electromagnetic valves to the internal volumes and second tubes extend from the electromagnetic valves towards the containers for the sample and/or other liquids, at least one of the syringes being an air pump (15, 16). The syringe block can be used as a support for various components used for the operation thereof, and can be arranged in a climatic condition reproducer. One such syringe block is especially adapted to be used in a liquid analyser, the air pump being used especially to take a sample and/or to drain and clean different recipients containing a sample.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 22, 2004
    Publication date: March 22, 2007
    Inventors: Serge Champseix, Henri Champseix
  • Publication number: 20070062315
    Abstract: The current invention provides a device, and a method for using the device, for ensuring that capillary or wicking fill device is fully filled. In particular this invention is directed to, but not limited to, use with capillary or wicking action filled electrochemical sensors suitable for use in analyzing blood or interstitial fluids.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 9, 2006
    Publication date: March 22, 2007
    Applicant: LifeScan, Inc.
    Inventor: Alastair Hodges
  • Publication number: 20070062316
    Abstract: The present invention provides a liquid sample suctioning device capable of simplifying a structure thereof, preventing clogging of a pipette and contamination of a liquid sample, and closing a hole formed in a lid after the liquid sample is suctioned. The liquid sample suctioning device is adapted to suction the liquid sample in the container by piercing through the lid mounted on an opening of the container, comprising a piercer having a leading end insertable into the container by piercing through the lid and forming a deformation piece deformable toward an inner side of the container in the lid, a pipette configured for suctioning the liquid sample in the container, a first driving part for moving up and down the piercer, and a second driving part for moving up and down the pipette along the piercer.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 5, 2006
    Publication date: March 22, 2007
    Inventors: Nobuhiro Kitagawa, Shuhei Kaneko
  • Publication number: 20070062317
    Abstract: A driving force is transmitted from a driving section to a cylinder mechanism having a piston while subjected to speed reduction. Further, an operation oil is charged into a rotary housing of a power transmission switching mechanism that is arranged between the driving section and the cylinder mechanism. First plates and second plates are alternately arranged along an inner shaft, the first plates being connected on a side of the driving section, and the second plates being connected on a side of the cylinder mechanism.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 11, 2006
    Publication date: March 22, 2007
    Applicant: SMC KABUSHIKI KAISHA
    Inventors: Shigekazu Nagai, Ryuichi Masui
  • Publication number: 20070062318
    Abstract: A transmission device includes a spindle and a shaft rotatably supported in a housing, a coupling device for selectively coupling the spindle to the shaft and to rotate the shaft in a same direction as that of the spindle. Another coupling device may selectively couple the spindle to the shaft and to rotate the shaft in a reverse direction as that of the spindle, and includes a driving pinion attached to the spindle, a driven gear is freely and rotatably attached on the shaft and coupled to the driving pinion, and a latching gear movable to selectively engage with the driven gear, to allow the shaft to rotated by the spindle to rotate in a same direction as that of the spindle by the driven gear and the driving pinion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 11, 2005
    Publication date: March 22, 2007
    Inventor: Jui Chang
  • Publication number: 20070062319
    Abstract: An engine for a motorcycle includes an engine case, a crankshaft rotatably supported within the engine case and extending laterally, an intermediate shaft being substantially parallel to the crankshaft and being rotated by the crankshaft at the same speed via a primary drive gear and a primary driven gear, a transmission input shaft being substantially parallel to the intermediate shaft and being rotated by the intermediate shaft at reduced speed via a secondary drive gear and a secondary driven gear, a transmission output shaft being substantially parallel to the transmission input shaft and being rotated by the transmission input shaft at changed speed via any combination of a plurality of transmission drive gears and transmission driven gears, and a clutch unit disposed on the intermediate shaft and capable of transmitting and interrupting rotation of the intermediate shaft to the transmission input shaft.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 18, 2006
    Publication date: March 22, 2007
    Applicant: SUZUKI KABUSHIKI KAISHA
    Inventor: Daijiro Mashita
  • Publication number: 20070062320
    Abstract: A transmission with a simple structure and mechanism, light-weight and compact is realized. A first rotation shaft 13 coaxially fixed to a first turning transmission wheel 5 and a second rotation shaft 14 coaxially fixed to a second turning transmission wheel 6 are arranged in parallel with each other. A support shaft 17 is arranged to extend between the first turning transmission wheel 13 and the second turning transmission wheel 14. An intermediary transfer wheel 16 is provided on the support shaft rotatably and movably along the longitudinal direction of the support shaft 17. The intermediary transfer wheel 16 contacts with the side peripheral surface 9 of the first turning transmission wheel 5 and the side peripheral surface 10 of the second turning transmission wheel 6 and moves longitudinally along the support shaft 17 while maintaining the contact. The first rotation shaft 13 is rotated by a power device 19 and its rotation can be transmitted with variable speed to the second rotation shaft 14.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 27, 2004
    Publication date: March 22, 2007
    Inventor: Nobuo Tomizawa
  • Publication number: 20070062321
    Abstract: The invention relates to a device which is used to move and orient an object in space and to the use thereof in rapid machining. The inventive device (1) comprises an object support which is borne by an intermediary mobile support (13) which is connected to a fixed frame (2) using articulated connecting means (7a, 7b, 7c). The invention also comprises means for moving the aforementioned intermediary mobile support (13) in relation to the fixed frame (2), which maintain the orientation of said intermediary mobile support (13) in relation to the fixed frame (2). The invention further comprises a mechanism (14) which is used to orient the object support in relation to the intermediary mobile support (13). The above-mentioned means for moving the intermediary mobile support (13) comprise actuators (5a, 5b, 5c) which are used to move an end part of each of the articulated connecting means (7a, 7b, 7c) borne by the fixed frame (2) translationally.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 4, 2004
    Publication date: March 22, 2007
    Inventors: Damien Chablat, Philippe Wenger
  • Publication number: 20070062322
    Abstract: Device to remove and reinstall parking brake cable onto a parking brake lever. The brake cable includes a cable in a spiral spring and a cable end stop member. The brake lever has a cable engaging portion caged between the end stop member and an end portion of the spring. The device includes a first member having a bifurcated first end engageable with the spring and a second member having a clamp engageable with the end stop for securing it during use. A threaded elongated member is engageable with the second member and connected to the first member for moving it at least away from the second member to separate the end of the spring from the brake lever and disengage it from the cable. An elongated member outwardly extends from the second member and engages a second end of the first member for moving it in a linear direction.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 20, 2005
    Publication date: March 22, 2007
    Inventors: J.C. Duffey, J.C. Duffey
  • Publication number: 20070062323
    Abstract: A control cable fixing device is coupled to a bicycle component such as a rear derailleur in order to secure an inner wire of a control cable to the bicycle component. The control cable fixing device includes a support member with a first engagement surface and a cable fixing member with a second engagement surface. The cable fixing member is rotatable relative to the support member. The cable fixing member and the support member secure the inner wire between the engagement surfaces in response to rotational movement of the cable fixing member to a cable fixing position. The cable fixing member preferably includes a cam portion and a lever portion that is manually operable to rotate the cable fixing member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 16, 2006
    Publication date: March 22, 2007
    Applicant: Shimano Inc.
    Inventors: Satoshi Shahana, Yo Matsubayashi, Kanji Kirimoto
  • Publication number: 20070062324
    Abstract: A multifunction seat control system includes a pulley mechanism in an enclosure, an actuation shaft to attach an external handle, and multiple latch actuation cables. The pulley mechanism includes multiple circumferential slots in which the cables ride, and cable-end entryways through which associated cables ends can be inserted. A lockout device detects a seat-back position to selectively limit the rotational travel of the pulley mechanism. The pulley mechanism is rotationally actuated to a predetermined angle to release a seat-back latch so the seat back can recline or fold forward, and beyond the predetermined angle to release seat-bottom latches so the seat can tumble into a stowage configuration. The control system optionally includes a headrest cable to release a headrest as the seat back is folded forward, and a release strap to actuate the pulley mechanism from behind the seat.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 7, 2005
    Publication date: March 22, 2007
    Inventor: Derek Ingraham
  • Publication number: 20070062325
    Abstract: There is disclosed a manually operated electric control device wherein a control lever is mounted by means of a universal joint type pivotable joint. Said control device has two axes which can be pivoted in relation to each other. One axis is formed by a bearing bush in which two bearing sections of the pivotable joint are guided. Bearing tappets are arranged on the bearing sections via which the control lever can be pivoted about another axis.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 29, 2004
    Publication date: March 22, 2007
    Applicant: Bosch Rexroth AG
    Inventors: Werner Steprath, Judith Dreyling
  • Publication number: 20070062326
    Abstract: A handguard for a handlebar is disclosed herein. In one embodiment, the handguard includes a shield and a plurality of mounting devices configured to secure the shield to the handlebar. Each mounting device is positioned at least a minimum distance from an end of a handlebar, such that an end of the handlebar is free. The shield is connected to the mounting devices so that it positioned in front of the handlebar.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 16, 2005
    Publication date: March 22, 2007
    Inventors: Kenneth Laivins, Glen Laivins
  • Publication number: 20070062327
    Abstract: A passenger footrest structure (30) includes a footrest support bracket (31) for supporting a passenger footrest (33) and an accessory mount (37) formed therewith for supporting an accessory part (40, 50, 60, 70, 80) other than the footrest (33).
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 12, 2006
    Publication date: March 22, 2007
    Inventors: Kaoru Kouchi, Keishi Fukumoto
  • Publication number: 20070062328
    Abstract: A bicycle crank assembly is configured to simplify the work required to adjust the bearing play by the crank assembly when the crank assembly is mounted. The bicycle crank assembly has a left crank that is mounted on a crank axle of the bicycle, and is provided with a crank body and an adjustment member. The crank body includes a crank axle mounting part non-rotatably mounting to one end of the crank axle, an arm part extending from the crank axle mounting part, a pedal mounting part for mounting the pedal and provided at the tip of the arm part, and a male screw part formed on the crank axle mounting part. The adjustment member includes a tubular part having a female screw part into which the male screw part is screwed, and a contact part formed at one end of the tubular part and capable of contacting the bearing supporting the crank axle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 27, 2006
    Publication date: March 22, 2007
    Applicant: Shimano Inc.
    Inventors: Shingo Shiraishi, Masahiro Yamanaka, Takuji Tatsumi
  • Publication number: 20070062329
    Abstract: In a balance shaft for a multi-cylinder in-line engine with at least two imbalance weight sections and at least one bearing structure wherein the balance shaft has imbalance weight sections being arranged symmetrically relative to the bearing position and at least one of the imbalance weight sections is connected to a further shaft section at an end facing away from the bearing position, a flexible coupling element that enables a deflection of the end of the connected imbalance weight section in the direction of the resulting centrifugal forces when the balance shaft rotates is provided between the end of the at least one imbalance weight section facing away from the bearing position and the further shaft section.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 22, 2006
    Publication date: March 22, 2007
    Inventors: Werner Hofheinz, Bernhard Jutz, Timm Papenhagen, Thomas Stolk, Karsten Unger
  • Publication number: 20070062330
    Abstract: A method of operating a channel induction furnace so as to receive electric arc furnace (EAF) dust, basic oxygen furnace (BOF) sludge/dust and/or other iron and volatile metals containing materials as a feed stream on a batch, continuous or semi-continuous basis together with a iron-containing material feed, and therefrom produce an iron-containing hot metal or pig iron product while recovering iron value from the feed materials and recovering volatile metal components contained in the feed materials.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 1, 2005
    Publication date: March 22, 2007
    Inventors: James Bratina, Kim Lenti
  • Publication number: 20070062331
    Abstract: The invention relates to the field of seed germination and growing of plants. A composition comprising a clay, an inert material, optionally a fibrous material, and a fourth component is provided, characterized in that said fourth component comprises a cation selected from the group consisting of Al, Zr and Ti and an anion selected from the group consisting of oxyhydroxide, oxychloride, nitrate, sulfate, chloride, hydroxide and alkoxide, and wherein the concentration of said fourth component ranges from 0.1 to 70 percent by weight (w %), preferably 0.5-25 w %, more preferably 1-10 w %, of the total weight of the clay, the inert material, and optionally the fibrous material, together.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 1, 2006
    Publication date: March 22, 2007
    Applicant: Eurochem N.V.
    Inventors: Jiri Havrda, Bart van Hulle
  • Publication number: 20070062332
    Abstract: One non-limiting embodiment of an apparatus for forming an alloy powder or preform includes a melting assembly, an atomizing assembly, and a field generating assembly, and a collector. The melting assembly produces at least one of a stream of a molten alloy and a series of droplets of a molten alloy, and may be substantially free from ceramic in regions contacted by the molten alloy. The atomizing assembly generates electrons and impinges the electrons on molten alloy from the melting assembly, thereby producing molten alloy particles. The field generating assembly produces at least one of an electrostatic field and an electromagnetic field between the atomizing assembly and the collector. The molten alloy particles interact with the at least one field, which influences at least one of the acceleration, speed, and direction of the molten alloy particles. Related methods also are disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 22, 2005
    Publication date: March 22, 2007
    Inventors: Robin Jones, Richard Kennedy
  • Publication number: 20070062333
    Abstract: An object of the present invention is to efficiently produce ultrafine particles having such a small diameter as 50 nm or less, a narrow range of size distribution, and a non-oxidation surface. According to the present invention, the metallic ultrafine particles are produced by dropping a raw metallic powder onto a controllably heated evaporating surface in a decompressed inert gas; instantly evaporating the raw metallic powder to form the ultrafine particle; and condensing and depositing the ultrafine particle on a trapping surface arranged above the evaporating surface. The raw metallic powder is any one of a single metal, an alloy and an intermetallic compound, preferably has an average particle diameter controlled to 500 ?m or smaller so that the powder can be instantly evaporated, and is preferably supplied by a minute amount.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 11, 2006
    Publication date: March 22, 2007
    Inventors: Junichi Saito, Kuniaki Ara, Hiroaki Ohira, Kuniaki Miura, Toshihiko Ogasawara
  • Publication number: 20070062334
    Abstract: System to determine the height in liquid or molten metal levels or phases within a mat or slag converter or pyrometallurgical furnace, whereby it comprises a signal generator and a signal processor, where such generator sends an electrical signal to such processor, being such processor connected to a group of electrodes placed in the converter's shell or pyrometallurgical furnace, in which such electrodes are disposed crossing the shell in electrical contact with the phases so that they are installed in height zones of the slag and metal levels or phases, so that once such electrodes are installed configuring serial resistance groups through which such electrical signals circulate.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 16, 2005
    Publication date: March 22, 2007
    Inventors: Jonhatan Barriga, Patricio Ruz, Claudio Fuentes, Fernando Hentzschel
  • Publication number: 20070062335
    Abstract: The invention relates to a hydrometallurgical metal for separating the precious metals and impurities of anode sludge obtained from copper electrolysis. According to the method, anode sludge copper is separated in atmospheric leaching; calcinated in two steps for separating selenium and for sulfatizing silver; the sulfatized silver is separated by leaching into a neutral aqueous solution, from which it can be separated by reduction or by extraction.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 31, 2004
    Publication date: March 22, 2007
    Applicant: Outokumpu Technology Oy
    Inventors: Leo Lindroos, Henri Virtanen, Olli Jarvinen
  • Publication number: 20070062336
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to a method for melting scrap of an aluminum alloy containing lithium. The steps include providing scrap containing aluminum-lithium-type alloys, preparing an initial liquid metal bed of a first composition in a smelting oven, loading the scrap onto the initial liquid metal bed so as to create a floating layer of the scrap with a controlled thickness at the surface of the liquid metal bed, partially melting the floating layer via contact with the metal bed so as to obtain a liquid metal bath having a second composition, and removing the liquid metal from the second composition of the liquid metal bath. The method has technical and economic advantages. It does not require investment in a particular installation and it requires minimal use of expensive expendable materials such as inert gas, because the formation of a floating layer having a controlled thickness makes it possible to effectively protect the surface of the liquid metal from oxidation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 4, 2006
    Publication date: March 22, 2007
    Applicant: ALCAN RHENALU
    Inventors: Jean-Pierre Riquet, Philippe Pelmard, Jean-Francois Verdier