Patents Issued in July 12, 2007
  • Publication number: 20070157703
    Abstract: According to some embodiments, an electronics based physical gas sensor includes a semiconductor layer, and at least one contact is electrically coupled to the semiconductor layer. A catalytic gate, having a property that changes when the gate is exposed to an analyte, and a variable bias from a voltage source are also provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 19, 2007
    Publication date: July 12, 2007
    Applicant: GENERAL ELECTRIC COMPANY
    Inventors: Vinayak Tilak, Kevin Matocha, Peter Sandvik
  • Publication number: 20070157704
    Abstract: A system and a method for determining the leakproofness of an object having a first cavity. The system includes a closed chamber having a second cavity arranged to envelope the object, an evacuator for lowering the pressure inside one of the cavities, a supply for supplying a tracer gas into the one of the cavities rendered the higher pressure, a detector sensitive to the tracer gas and an introducer for introducing a transport gas into the one of the cavities rendered the lower pressure. Furthermore, the evacuator is arranged to compress arriving gas to the ambient pressure of the chamber and to communicate with the detecting means, which is suited for operation at the ambient pressure of the chamber. The tracer gas is hydrogen.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 2, 2004
    Publication date: July 12, 2007
    Applicant: Sensistor Technologies AB
    Inventors: Per Jenneus, Fredrik Enquist
  • Publication number: 20070157705
    Abstract: The present invention provides a leak detection system for a double pipeline having an inner pipe, an outer pipe and an interstitial space therebetween. The system includes: (1) a first sensor and a second sensor spaced from one another and associated with the double pipeline, the first sensor and the second sensor being capable of sensing a change in a physical condition within the interstitial space indicative of a fluid leak and of generating a signal indicating a fluid leak detection, each of the first sensor and the second sensor having a unique address; and (2) a control coupled with the first detector and the second detector and responsive to the signal indicating fluid leak detection; the control being capable of reporting the address of the first sensor or the second sensor that sent the signal indicating fluid leak detection.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 8, 2007
    Publication date: July 12, 2007
    Inventors: Arnold C. Bilstad, James Audo
  • Publication number: 20070157706
    Abstract: A leak detector comprising a sensor unit including a measuring slim-tube (13b) via the lower end of which a liquid in a tank is led in/out, a measuring tube (17) connected to the upper end thereof and having a sectional area larger than that thereof, and temperature sensors (133, 134) and a heater (135) provided to the slim-tube (13b), and a leak detection control unit (15a) connected to the sensor unit.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 30, 2004
    Publication date: July 12, 2007
    Applicant: MITSUI MINING & SMELTING CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Kiyotaka Yanagi, Atsushi Koike, Toshimi Nakamura, Kiyoshi Yamagishi, Hideshi Sekimori
  • Publication number: 20070157707
    Abstract: A pipe testing apparatus includes a rupture device for testing a rupture strength of a pipe. The rupture device has two clamping heads respectively accepting associated ends of the pipe which extends between the clamping heads, and a pressure-application system having a feed channel for imposing a fluid upon the pipe. The rupture device includes a tie rod which connects the clamping heads and extends through the pipe in coaxial relationship thereto such that an annular space is formed between the tie rod and the pipe, with the feed channel feeding into the annular space.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 21, 2006
    Publication date: July 12, 2007
    Applicant: Benteler Automobiltechnik GmbH
    Inventor: RAFAEL GARCIA GOMEZ
  • Publication number: 20070157708
    Abstract: Methods for determining and validating a first phase fraction of a gravitationally-separated multiphase fluid by conducting physical and electrical property measurements on samples of the fluid. The water content of crude petroleum oil is determined after the oil and water have begun to separate into phase layers such as occurs during un-agitated holding of the crude petroleum oil. A series of measurements of electrical properties such as permittivity and physical properties such as density is collected. The density minima can be used to generate hindsight determinations of average properties, such as the dry oil phase density, which in turn can be used to increase the accuracy of the water percentage in the oil determined by the permittivity and density methods. Flow weighted averages of water percentages by each method can be used to determine and validate the water content of the crude petroleum oil.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 11, 2006
    Publication date: July 12, 2007
    Inventor: Bentley Scott
  • Publication number: 20070157709
    Abstract: A sample processing/injection device for liquid chromatography comprises a septum at one end of the device, a processing chamber and injection needle disposed on a second end of the device. A fluid sample is transferred into the device by a transfer needle penetrating the septum of the device. The sample device may be positioned to a receiving component such as an injection valve of an instrument by movement of the transfer needle. The sample is injected into the receiving component through the injection needle of the sample processing/injection device through motive pressure supplied by the transfer needle. The sample processing/injection device reduces sampling steps and improves automation by performing sample processing and injection with a single device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 18, 2006
    Publication date: July 12, 2007
    Inventors: Kimberly Gamble, Robert Fitzgerald
  • Publication number: 20070157710
    Abstract: A micro-hardness measurement method for calculating the hardness of a test sample by pushing an indenter in the test sample and forming an indentation thereon, including: a loading step for extracting load data showing the relationship between load L applied to the indenter and a depth ? to which the indenter is pushed in from the surface of the test sample; an unloading step of extracting unloading data showing the relationship between the load L applied to the indenter after the load is unloaded and the depth ?; a first step of judging, by comparing the unloading data with the load data, the load fluctuation amount from the maximum depth ?0 when unloading the load; and a second step of judging the load at the depth ?1 (?1<?0) when unloading the load or the load fluctuation amount in the vicinity of the depth ?1.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 19, 2006
    Publication date: July 12, 2007
    Applicant: RENIAS CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Yoshinori Isomoto
  • Publication number: 20070157711
    Abstract: A digital system for controlling the quality factor in a resonant device. The resonant device can be any mechanically driven resonant device, but more particularly can be a device that includes a cantilever within its system, such as an atomic force microscope. The quality factor can be digitally controlled to avoid noise effect in the analog components. One of the controls can use a direct digital synthesizer implemented in a way that provides access to the output of the phase accumulator. That output drives a lookup table to produce a cosine or sine output wave. The output is also formed into a second number that drives a second lookup table to create an adjustment factor. The adjusted digital signal then drives a DA converter which produces an output drive for the cantilever.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 10, 2007
    Publication date: July 12, 2007
    Inventors: Dan Bocek, Jason Cleveland
  • Publication number: 20070157712
    Abstract: A micromotion device for preventing a tubular piezoelectric device which is cylindrically shaped and has cutouts in one end portion. The one end portion of the piezoelectric device is mounted to a mount stage made of a material that is different in coefficient of thermal expansion from the material of the piezoelectric device. Electrodes are mounted on the piezoelectric body. The micromotion device produces micromotions of the other end portion of the piezoelectric body. The cutouts produce elastic deformation which absorbs differences in amount of deformation between the piezoelectric body and the mount stage caused by temperature variations.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 18, 2006
    Publication date: July 12, 2007
    Applicant: JEOL Ltd.
    Inventor: Takaaki Amakusa
  • Publication number: 20070157713
    Abstract: A misfire detecting apparatus for an internal combustion engine wherein a rotational speed parameter according to a rotational speed of the engine is detected. A reference value of the rotational speed parameter is then calculated. Next, a difference between the reference value and a rotational speed parameter detected at every predetermined crank angle as a relative speed parameter is calculated. Further, an integrated value of the relative speed parameter is calculated, and a misfire determination is performed based on the calculated integrated value.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 13, 2006
    Publication date: July 12, 2007
    Inventors: Toshinori Tsukamoto, Mahito Shikama
  • Publication number: 20070157714
    Abstract: A system and method for testing partially assembled engines for possible oil leaks. The system includes engine pressurizing devices that are automatically controlled by a controller according to a predetermined control program based upon the engine model type being tested. The pressurizing devices introduce pressurized air into the engine oil system. A leak testing unit monitors the pressurized engine for pressure drops indicative of an oil seal leak. Air pressure leaks resulting from inherently air-porous EGR valves are compensated for by an EGR compensating unit, which provides pressurized air to an intake side of the EGR valve. The flow of pressurized air through the EGR compensating unit is monitored to determine whether there is a problem with the EGR valve.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 10, 2006
    Publication date: July 12, 2007
    Applicant: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Brent C. Rankin, Heather W. Thomas, Chuck Hoke
  • Publication number: 20070157715
    Abstract: A method for model-based determination of the total fresh air mass flowing into the cylinder combustion chamber of an internal combustion engine during an intake phase is described. The method includes, steps of ascertaining a first partial air mass on the basis of a first load partial model, the first load partial model having a linear behavior, ascertaining a second partial air mass on the basis of a second load partial model, the second load partial model having a nonlinear behavior, and determining the total air mass by adding together the previously ascertained partial air masses.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 27, 2007
    Publication date: July 12, 2007
    Applicant: Bayerische Motoren Werke Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventors: Martin Boehm, Heiko Konrad, Satish Patel
  • Publication number: 20070157716
    Abstract: Method of testing a fuel injection valve 1 for a diesel engine by supplying pressurized oil to the inlet side of the valve. According to the invention the oil pressure is gradually recorded, the pressure increase being interrupted at the moment when the opening pressure of the valve is exceeded, which is noted by a drop in the pressure on the inlet side. At the same time the opening pressure is recorded. As a result a more lenient test method is provided, which also can be used in connection with newly developed injection valves.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 18, 2004
    Publication date: July 12, 2007
    Applicant: IB OBEL PEDERSEN A/S
    Inventor: Bent Kortsen
  • Publication number: 20070157717
    Abstract: An apparatus and a method for inspecting a brake system of a two-wheeled vehicle are provided, which not only can reduce the time required for each inspection of the two-wheeled vehicle to efficiently perform inspection of the two-wheeled vehicle, but also remarkably improve the inspection accuracy. Each wheel of the two-wheeled vehicle is supported by respective corresponding support rollers and an anti-lock brake system and a front and rear wheel interlocking brake system acts on the wheels. Data for rotational speeds of the rollers supporting the wheel acted upon by the anti-lock brake system are measured by first measuring means 20, 31. Data for temperature of a brake actuating part 45 of the wheel acted upon by the front and rear wheel interlocking brake system is measured by second measuring means 46.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 27, 2006
    Publication date: July 12, 2007
    Inventor: Giuseppe Madonna
  • Publication number: 20070157718
    Abstract: A system and method are provided for determining the volume of a fluid in a container. Sensors are positioned at distinct locations in a container of a fluid. Each sensor is sensitive to an interface defined by the top surface of the fluid. Interfaces associated with at least three of the sensors are determined and used to find the volume of the fluid in the container in a geometric process.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 9, 2006
    Publication date: July 12, 2007
    Applicant: U.S.A. as represented by the Administrator of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration
    Inventors: Stanley Woodard, Bryant Taylor
  • Publication number: 20070157719
    Abstract: In one method, the permeabilities are obtained by correcting the geometric factor derived from combining the FRA analysis and buildup analysis.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 22, 2007
    Publication date: July 12, 2007
    Applicant: BAKER HUGHES INCORPORATED
    Inventors: James Sheng, Daniel Georgi
  • Publication number: 20070157720
    Abstract: A system and/or method for sensing the presence of moisture (e.g., rain) and/or other material(s) on a window such as a vehicle window (e.g., vehicle windshield, sunroof or backlite). In certain example embodiments of the invention, at least one sensing capacitor is supported by a window such as a vehicle windshield, the capacitor(s) having a field that is affected by moisture (e.g., rain) on a surface of the window. The at least one sensing capacitor may have a fractal geometry in certain example embodiments of this invention. The sensing circuit may output an analog signal that is based on and/or related to the sensing capacitor(s). The analog output of the circuit may be converted to a digital signal, and subjected to processing (e.g., correlation) for determining whether moisture (e.g., rain, dew, fog, etc.) or the like is present on the surface of the window.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 27, 2006
    Publication date: July 12, 2007
    Applicant: Guardian Industries Corp.
    Inventor: Vijayen Veerasamy
  • Publication number: 20070157721
    Abstract: A system and/or method for sensing the presence of moisture (e.g., rain) and/or other material(s) on a window such as a vehicle window (e.g., vehicle windshield, sunroof or backlite). In certain example embodiments of the invention, at least one sensing capacitor is supported by a window such as a vehicle windshield, the capacitor(s) having a field that is affected by moisture (e.g., rain) on a surface of the window. A sensing circuit outputs an analog signal that is based on and/or related to the capacitance(s) of the sensing capacitor(s). The analog output of the circuit may be converted to a digital signal via sigma-delta modulation, and subjected to processing (e.g., correlation) for determining whether moisture (e.g., rain, dew, fog, etc.) or the like is present on the surface of the window.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 27, 2006
    Publication date: July 12, 2007
    Applicant: Guardian Industries Corp.
    Inventor: Vijayen Veerasamy
  • Publication number: 20070157722
    Abstract: A system and/or method for sensing the presence of moisture (e.g., rain) and/or other material(s) on a window such as a vehicle window (e.g., vehicle windshield, sunroof or backlite). In certain example embodiments of the invention, at least one sensing capacitor is supported by a window such as a vehicle windshield, the capacitor(s) having a field that is affected by moisture (e.g., rain) on a surface of the window. A sensing circuit outputs an analog signal that is based on and/or related to the capacitance(s) of the sensing capacitor(s). The analog output of the circuit may be converted to a digital signal, and subjected to processing (e.g., correlation) for determining whether moisture (e.g., rain, dew, fog, etc.) or the like is present on the surface of the window.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 27, 2006
    Publication date: July 12, 2007
    Applicant: Guardian Industries Corp.
    Inventor: Vijayen Veerasamy
  • Publication number: 20070157723
    Abstract: This invention discloses a multiple differential volume tube measurement quantity conveying device and its conveying method thereof. The device includes volume tubes, inlet pipes and outlet pipes, in which there are at least two set of volume tubes divided into two groups. The inlet pipe of the volume tube is connected with a main inlet pipe and the outlet pipe of the volume tube is connected with a main outlet pipe. Drive mechanisms to be arranged to drive the volume tubes respectively. The drive mechanism is connected with a controller in complementary manner at the same time. The first step of conveying method is to confirm the conveying state of any referenced volume tube group. The second step is to decide the compensatory conveying volume and the conveying volume of the referenced volume tube groups.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 12, 2005
    Publication date: July 12, 2007
    Inventor: Cong Xiao
  • Publication number: 20070157724
    Abstract: Described is a sensor for filling level measurement using a gravitational field analysis, comprising a first and a second gravimeter unit. The measurement is effected in a contactless manner, via the container wall and without input of energy into the filling good. Thus, there is no need for a source emitting measurement rays.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 23, 2006
    Publication date: July 12, 2007
    Inventor: Felix Raffalt
  • Publication number: 20070157725
    Abstract: A liquid level sensor for measuring liquid levels in underground and above ground containers includes a frame formed to have an elongate hollow tubular configuration that encloses a cavity. A cam pivot has an end extending into the cavity from a first inner wall portion of the frame. A cam is arranged to be pivotal about the end of the cam pivot. A float is placed in the cavity. A spring is arranged to bias the cam arm into contact with the float to force a side portion of the float into a locked position in frictional engagement with the second inner wall portion of the frame. A cam actuator pivotally mounted in a lower end portion of the frame exerts a force on the cam arm to release the float from the locked position when the lower end of the frame contacts the container bottom.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 10, 2006
    Publication date: July 12, 2007
    Inventors: John Fling, William Fling
  • Publication number: 20070157726
    Abstract: To test the integrity of packages—cups (11)—a package conveyor (14) is provided, on whose conveying run (17) the cups (11) are positioned at a distance from one another, specifically in a correct formation forming transverse rows (23). In order to form a sealed testing chamber (13) for a group of cups (11) to be tested, a covering hood (19) can be lowered from above onto the package conveyor (14). Together with the covering hood (19), the latter forms a sealed testing chamber (13). A vacuum is produced in the latter, with the consequence that the packages experience deformation, specifically the cups (11) experience deformation of a closure film. Non-sealed cups (11) are identified and separated out.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 2, 2005
    Publication date: July 12, 2007
    Inventors: Gisbert Engel, Andreas Prahm
  • Publication number: 20070157727
    Abstract: An image resolution enhancing apparatus and method are provided. The image resolution enhancing apparatus includes: a scanner, a synchronous detector, a wave generator, a high voltage amplifier, a resonant frequency detector, a multiplier which multiplies the resonant frequency of the scanner which is detected by the resonant frequency detector by the horizontal resolution of a display screen; a frequency oscillator which oscillates at a pixel frequency which corresponds to the multiplication result of the multiplier; and a pulse generator which generates a pulse which corresponds to the pixel frequency oscillations of the frequency oscillator and outputs the generated pulse to the wave generator, wherein the wave generator adds the pulse generated by the pulse generator to the wave to generate a composite wave.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 15, 2006
    Publication date: July 12, 2007
    Inventors: Jong-hwa Won, Sung-hoon Choa
  • Publication number: 20070157728
    Abstract: Components of an ultrasonic sensor are contained in a cylindrical casing having an end wall closing one end of the casing. A vibrator such as a piezoelectric element is disposed in the casing in contact with the end wall. An integrated circuit chip that includes a signal generator, a filter device and a temperature sensor is contained in the casing. Vibrations generated in the vibrator are transferred to the end wall that transmits ultrasonic waves. Ultrasonic waves received by the end wall are converted into electrical signals in the vibrator. Frequency of the transmitting signals and a frequency region of the signals to be received are controlled according to the ambient temperature, so that they always coincide with a resonant frequency of the end wall which changes according to the ambient temperature. Thus, high transmitting/receiving efficiency is always realized, irrespective of the ambient temperature.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 21, 2006
    Publication date: July 12, 2007
    Applicant: DENSO CORPORATION
    Inventor: Noboru Endou
  • Publication number: 20070157729
    Abstract: A non-explosive shockwave generator system for hydrodynamic pressure processing of food products, the generator including a volume of fluid about a food product, a piston in a cylinder arranged to strike the volume, and a subsystem for driving the piston to impact the volume of fluid to create a shockwave which travels through the food product.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 10, 2006
    Publication date: July 12, 2007
    Inventors: John Williams, Peter A. Warren, James Carter
  • Publication number: 20070157730
    Abstract: A laser maintenance apparatus is provided with a laser system including a laser light source and an optical system and emitting a laser light, a light transmitting device for generating the laser light emitted from the laser system, and a laser irradiation device for irradiating the laser light generated by the light transmitting device to an object portion. The laser system includes an element for changing an irradiation condition of the laser light.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 6, 2006
    Publication date: July 12, 2007
    Applicant: KABUSHIKI KAISHA TOSHIBA
    Inventors: Makoto Ochiai, Yoshiaki Ono, Takahiro Miura, Mitsuaki Shimamura, Masaki Yoda, Hidehiko Kuroda, Itaru Chida, Fukashi Osakata, Satoshi Yamamoto, Kentaro Tsuchihashi, Ryoichi Saeki, Masahiro Yoshida, Tetsuro Aikawa, Satoshi Okada, Toru Onodera, Akira Tsuyuki
  • Publication number: 20070157731
    Abstract: An ultrasonic sensor for detecting an object includes a sending element for sending an ultrasonic wave to the object, a receiving portion for receiving the wave reflected by the object, a first transmitting portion for transmitting a vibration of the wave received by the receiving portion, a second transmitting portion and an oscillating portion which is oscillated by the vibration. The receiving portion is exposed to a space where the object exists. The second transmitting portion is coupled between the first transmitting portion and the oscillating portion so as to transmit the vibration from the first transmitting portion to the oscillating portion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 21, 2006
    Publication date: July 12, 2007
    Applicant: DENSO CORPORATION
    Inventors: Yasuyuki Okuda, Takahiko Yoshida, Ryonosuke Tera, Akio Sugiura
  • Publication number: 20070157732
    Abstract: A composite structure of a z-axis interconnect is presented. The composite structure includes a plurality of layers of backing material alternatingly arranged between a plurality of interconnect layers, where the plurality of interconnect layers is configured to facilitate coupling the composite structure of the z-axis interconnect to a transducer array, where the composite structure of z-axis interconnect is configured for use in an invasive probe.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 6, 2006
    Publication date: July 12, 2007
    Inventors: Warren Lee, Charles Baumgartner, Douglas Wildes, Robert Lewandowski
  • Publication number: 20070157733
    Abstract: Single-crystal components of gas turbine engines, like turbine blades, are inspected in the installed state within the engine for cracking in certain critical areas using longitudinal ultrasonic waves. A first, rough orientation of the ultrasonic waves onto the critical area is accomplished under camera-visual control using an ultrasonic probe whose shape conforms to the respective component area and which, therefore, can be form-fitted to the component. For fine-positioning of the ultrasonic waves in the critical area, a reference signal is generated at a component-specific geometrical contour adjacent to the critical area by second ultrasonic waves emitted at a local distance to the first ultrasonic waves. The presence of this signal ensures the safe, disturbance-free detection of cracks in the critical blade area by means of longitudinal sonic waves. The invention includes an apparatus for the performance of the method.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 23, 2006
    Publication date: July 12, 2007
    Inventors: Holger Litzenberg, Heike Floege, Jochen Scholz, Anthony Dunhill
  • Publication number: 20070157734
    Abstract: A battery powered wireless fluid pressure sensor has a sealed chamber which can be vented to the outside atmosphere through a re-sealable reference port to allow a user to set the reference atmosphere inside the pressure sensor enabling the pressure sensor to provide absolute, gauge and true gauge pressure readings. The sensor calculates and transmits the fluid pressure taking into account the temperature of the pressure transducer, the temperature of the electronic devices and the barometric pressure inside the sealed chamber to provide accurate pressure measurements over a wide range of operating conditions.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 3, 2006
    Publication date: July 12, 2007
    Inventor: Thomas Skwara
  • Publication number: 20070157735
    Abstract: A semiconductor chip for use in fabricating pressure transducers, including: a semiconductor wafer having a top and a bottom surface, a layer of an insulating material formed on the top surface, the bottom surface having at least two recesses of substantially equal dimensions and spaced apart, the recesses providing first and second substantially equal thin active areas, which areas deflect upon application to a force applied to the top surface, a first plurality of piezoresistive devices arranged in a given pattern and positioned on the insulating material and located within the first area, a second equal plurality of piezoresistive devices arranged in the identical pattern and located on the insulating material within the second active area, first connecting means for connecting the first plurality of piezoresistive devices in a first array, second connecting means for connecting the second plurality of piezoresistive devices in a second array corresponding to the first array.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 9, 2007
    Publication date: July 12, 2007
    Inventors: Anthony Kurtz, Alexander Ned
  • Publication number: 20070157736
    Abstract: To provide a screw fastening device that, when performing a screw tightening operation, can substantially reduce the running torque directly applied by external force to a screw driving device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 20, 2005
    Publication date: July 12, 2007
    Applicant: Nippon Telegraph and Telephone Corporation
    Inventors: Hiroshi Kawano, Tatsuya Hirahara
  • Publication number: 20070157737
    Abstract: An apparatus is provided that determines a characteristic of a multiphase fluid, such as an aerated oil and water fluid, flowing within a pipe. The apparatus includes a fluid flow meter, a water cut meter, and a density meter, wherein the density meter determines the density of the fluid flow to determine the gas volume (or void) fraction of the multiphase fluid flow. The output signal of each of the meters is provided to a multiphase flow model to provide a plurality of multiphase parameters, such as phase fraction, volumetric flow, mass flow of each of the phases of the multiphase mixture, optimized for various flow conditions. Each of the meters may be secured to the outer surface of the pipe using various means, such a clamping means.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 10, 2007
    Publication date: July 12, 2007
    Inventors: Daniel Gysling, Alex Spek
  • Publication number: 20070157738
    Abstract: A flow metering apparatus possessing a housing with a chamber including and entrance and an exit for the passageway of fluid therethrough. A flow directing body is located in the chamber and includes first and second conical portions positioned on either side of a cylindrical portion. The body is supported in the chamber in a fixed manner. An orifice is located within the chamber upstream of the first conical portion of the body and is of a predetermined size to control the passage of fluid through the housing chamber. First and second sensors sense the dynamic pressures at the apex of the first conical portion and at a position between the body and a wall of the chamber.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 8, 2006
    Publication date: July 12, 2007
    Inventors: Nathaniel Hughes, Leon Shaw
  • Publication number: 20070157739
    Abstract: A microfluidic device and method for assessing properties of a fluid. The device includes a base supported by a substrate and a tube extending from the base and spaced apart from the substrate surface. The tube has an internal passage, first and second portions adjacent the base and defining, respectively, an inlet and outlet of the passage, and a distal portion. A drive electrode is located on the substrate surface adjacent the distal portion of the tube. Sensing electrodes are located on the substrate surface adjacent the first and second portions of the tube, and are adapted for sensing deflections of the first and second portions when vibrated with the drive electrode and from which the fluid property is determined. A pair of electrodes is located on the substrate surface between the drive and sensing electrodes, and are operated to enhance the performance of the microfluidic device, such as by supplementing the drive or sensing electrodes.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 8, 2007
    Publication date: July 12, 2007
    Applicant: INTEGRATED SENSING SYSTEMS, INC.
    Inventors: Douglas Ray Sparks, Rick Smith, Nader Najafi
  • Publication number: 20070157740
    Abstract: A device determines a torque that is exerted on a shaft, the shaft having a first shaft section and a second shaft section, the two shaft sections being rotatable in relation to one another. The device comprise a multi-pole magnetic ring and a stator support that is fixed to the second shaft section. Two stator elements are fixed to the stator support and each stator element has fingers that project in an axial or radial direction, are uniformly distributed at least over part of the circumference and are interspaced by gaps. The magnetic ring is situated between the fingers of one stator element and the fingers of the other stator element. A second magnetic ring is located on one of the two shaft sections and a magnetic sensor is mounted on one of the two shaft sections.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 12, 2005
    Publication date: July 12, 2007
    Inventors: Frank Jerems, Dirk Rachui, Ekkehart Froehlich, Christian Ruetz
  • Publication number: 20070157741
    Abstract: To provide a torque sensor with which a bipolar output signal can be obtained and which can reduce affects on the output signal resulting from axial eccentricity.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 17, 2005
    Publication date: July 12, 2007
    Applicant: Mitsubishi Denki Kabushiki
    Inventors: Yoshio Yoshikuwa, Akihiko Imagi
  • Publication number: 20070157742
    Abstract: A hub unit with a sensor comprises a hub unit 1 including a body-side raceway member 3, a wheel-side raceway member 4 and two rows of rolling elements 5, and a sensor device 2. The sensor device 2 includes a magnetostrictive sensor 8 for detecting the inverse magnetostrictive effect, and the magnetostrictive sensor 8 is mounted to the body-side raceway member 3 so as to be capable of measuring the tensile strain in the uppermost part of an inner wheel 17 of the wheel-side raceway member 4. From the output of the magnetostrictive sensor 8, the tire grounding load and the rotational velocity are detected.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 30, 2004
    Publication date: July 12, 2007
    Applicant: JTEKT Corporation
    Inventors: Kenichi Kouduki, Katsura Koyagi, Masahiro Inoue
  • Publication number: 20070157743
    Abstract: The invention relates to a device for testing at least one quality parameter of a fluid in fluid apparatuses, e.g. working cylinders (10), hydraulic accumulators, valves, filter housings, pressure tubes, which at least temporarily accomodate a given fluid volume in at least one fluid chamber (12, 14). Said fluid volume is stored in a storage unit (16) with the aid of a control mechanism (16) after being discharged from the fluid apparatus in order to be redirected from there into a measuring element (22, 24) to verify the respective quality parameter of the fluid. The inventive device makes it possible to specifically obtain a statement about the operability of the respective fluid apparatus within a very short period of time.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 27, 2004
    Publication date: July 12, 2007
    Inventor: Frank Jung
  • Publication number: 20070157744
    Abstract: An assembly for monitoring and locating leaks in an installation includes a collecting line formed of a material that is impermeable to a substance to be monitored. The collecting line has a multiplicity of openings spaced apart in its longitudinal direction. The openings are closed with a filter element of a sintered metallic material that is permeable to the substance and has been subjected to a heat treatment in an oxidizing atmosphere.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 2, 2007
    Publication date: July 12, 2007
    Inventor: Wolfgang Issel
  • Publication number: 20070157745
    Abstract: An instrument cluster assembly includes a pointer assembly that generates a pointer image that moves along the scale to point to a portion of the scale that corresponds with the measured parameter. The pointer assembly projects the pointer image such that a solid pointer is not required and therefore does not obstruct any portion of the dial face. The pointer image tracks along the oval shape of the scale without the limitations imposed on a physical pointer rotated about a fixed central axis.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 9, 2007
    Publication date: July 12, 2007
    Applicant: Siemens VDO Automotive Corporation
    Inventors: Kenichi Takato, Vyacheslav Birman, Werner Eckardt
  • Publication number: 20070157746
    Abstract: A corrosion resistant weldable boss includes a body portion having a lower portion formed of a sintered powder, e.g., ferrous powder, which is readily welded to a vehicle structure surface. A capping member is sintered to an upper portion of the body portion and is formed of a corrosion resistant material such as sintered stainless steel powder. Also disclosed herein are processes for inhibiting corrosion of a sensor operating in a corrosive environment about a vehicle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 12, 2006
    Publication date: July 12, 2007
    Inventor: Thomas Perry
  • Publication number: 20070157747
    Abstract: A securing system for transporting and mounting a measuring instrument for the determination of a position of two components which are movable in relation to each other. The securing system including a securing device and a support body having a guide track and supporting a linearly extending measuring graduation. The securing device includes a base body, which is longitudinally displaceable along the guide track of the support body and can be fixed in place on the support body by clamping forces in order to maintain the mounting base in a desired position in regard to the support body.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 8, 2006
    Publication date: July 12, 2007
    Inventors: Karl Fiedler, Johann Tauber
  • Publication number: 20070157748
    Abstract: Device for fastening a sensor on containers with a flexible container wall, in particular mixing bags, comprising a sensor support which is fitted with a sensor, bears against an inner wall of the container wall at least with a rear subsurface averted from the sensor, and is guided with a central piece through an opening in the container wall in which the sensor support is fixed on the container wall by a clamping part which can be connected to the central piece, in which the container wall is clamped between the rear subsurface of the sensor support and on a bearing surface, facing an outer wall of the container, of the clamping part, and in which the rear subsurface bears sealingly against the inner wall of the container wall. The sensor support can also have an electronic or optical transmit unit which is connected to the sensor, in which case the transmit unit communicates in a wireless fashion with a receive unit arranged outside the container.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 20, 2006
    Publication date: July 12, 2007
    Applicant: Sartorius AG
    Inventors: Reinhard Baumfalk, Oscar-Werner Reif
  • Publication number: 20070157749
    Abstract: Cooling apparatus for transferring heat from and cooling one or more heat generating components that support or drive a flywheel or other spinning member. The apparatus may include a first heat transfer element attached to and spinning with the spinning member, a second heat transfer element stationary with respect to the spinning member, wherein the first and second heat transfer elements move relative to one another, and wherein the first and second heat transfer elements are shaped and positioned in close proximity to one another so that substantial heat is transferred from the first heat transfer element to the second heat transfer element.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 12, 2006
    Publication date: July 12, 2007
    Inventors: John Adams, Shepard McKenney
  • Publication number: 20070157750
    Abstract: A vehicle transmission having a pair of left and right HSTs for driving respective axles is applicable for a riding lawn mower. The transmission comprises a center casing incorporating a distributing drive train. In the fore-and-aft direction, an input shaft of the distributing drive train projects from the center casing toward a prime mover, and a PTO shaft for driving a mower unit projects from the center casing opposite to the prime mover. A pair of left and right deceleration drive train casings for incorporating respective deceleration gear trains and supporting the respective axles are disposed on respective left and right sides of the center casing. A pair of left and right stepless transmission mechanisms, each of which is drivingly interposed between the distributing drive train and each of the deceleration gear trains in the deceleration gear train casings, are mounted on left and right side portions of the center casing opposite to the prime mover in the fore-and-aft direction.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 22, 2007
    Publication date: July 12, 2007
    Inventors: Norihiro Ishii, Ryota Ohashi
  • Publication number: 20070157751
    Abstract: The invention relates to a drive for adjusting motor vehicle seats comprising a spindle (5) fixed to a first (4) of two rails (3, 4) which are adjustable with respect to each other with the aid of holding devices (60) arranged on the end of the spindle (5). A transmission (9) actuated by a motor (2) is placed on the second rail (3), According to id invention, the holding devices (60) comprise an external bowl-shaped supporting surface (66) in which each end of the spindle (5) is fixedly mounted, respectively. Said solution is more advantageous in comparison with conventional holding devices which are embodied in the form of flexible stamped parts, in particular the inventive holding devices exhibit a high resistance in the case of crash.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 17, 2004
    Publication date: July 12, 2007
    Inventors: Michael Woehrle, Hans Dropmann, Andreas Gapp, Urban Knoepfle
  • Publication number: 20070157752
    Abstract: The invention relates to a gear for adjusting two parts (60, 61) that can be displaced in relation to each other, particularly vehicle parts of a seat adjustment device, of a window lifter or of a sliding roof, wherein the first one of the parts (60) comprises a non-rotatable spindle (62) or a fixed toothed rack. The gear comprises a worm wheel (4, 41), with a spindle nut (42) non-rotatable thereto for driving the spindle (62) or a worm non-rotatable thereto for driving the toothed rack, a drivable worm (3, 31) for transmitting a driving force to the worm wheel (4, 41) and a gear housing (1), which accommodates and supports the worm (3) and the worm wheel (4) and which can be non-rotatably connected to the second one of the parts (61) in the displacement direction thereof, the gear housing (1) being formed by a single-piece body with a worm bearing (14) and a worm wheel bearing (19).
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 14, 2006
    Publication date: July 12, 2007
    Applicant: IMS GEAR GmbH
    Inventors: Urban Knopfle, Wolfram Hofschulte