Patents Issued in October 4, 2007
  • Publication number: 20070227215
    Abstract: A method and surface treatment apparatus for preventing or arresting the development and propagation of cracks in the material surrounding a fastener. The method includes introducing compressive residual stresses in the material surrounding the fastener. The compressive residual stresses offset the high residual tensile and applied stresses which the material may be subjected to in operation and thereby prevent or arrest the development of cracks. The surface treatment apparatus comprises a compression tool, positioning device and at least one sensor for determining the location of a fastener on the surface being treated. Using the output of the sensor, the surface treatment apparatus is positioned relative to a fastener. The compression tool is impinged against the surface of the material adjacent to the fastener and rotated around the perimeter of the fastener thereby inducing a zone of compressive residual stress.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 22, 2007
    Publication date: October 4, 2007
    Inventor: Paul Prevey
  • Publication number: 20070227216
    Abstract: An automated screw rod bender includes a sensing system for sensing a position of each of a plurality of screws that are inserted into a vertebrae, a computing system for converting the positions into a geometric coordinates of the screws and generating a corresponding plurality of rod bending parameters, and a rod bending system for bending a rod based on the rod bending parameters.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 16, 2006
    Publication date: October 4, 2007
    Inventor: David Schalliol
  • Publication number: 20070227217
    Abstract: A device for the manufacture of perforated films or foils comprises a means (5) for the perforation of the film or foil (2), as well as a means (19) for crimping the edges of the thusly produced holes. By crimping the edges, the holes are fixed after having been opened. Punching tools for cutting the perforation out of the film or foil are not required. Rather, the desired hole is first created as a puncture, or as a cut, and is then widened. During the crimping operation, the material bent out of the plane of the film or foil is fixed in place in such a manner that it will not close the pierced hole again.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 27, 2007
    Publication date: October 4, 2007
    Applicant: Groz-Beckert KG
    Inventor: Hans-Joachim Halamoda
  • Publication number: 20070227218
    Abstract: An apparatus for providing a curl on a top edge of a can comprises a forming head; and a forming turret with a push ram to load the can into the forming head. The forming head includes a plurality of independent rollers mounted on a common head. The plurality of rollers includes a first set of rollers configured to form an inner portion of a curl and a second set of rollers configured to form an outer portion of the curl.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 22, 2006
    Publication date: October 4, 2007
    Inventor: Jeffrey L. Shortridge
  • Publication number: 20070227219
    Abstract: A straightener in which the shape of guide bar facings is simplified and the guide bar facings are effectively used. In the straightener, a clearance (S) opening in a direction orthogonal to a line connecting the axes of straightening rolls (12, 14) to each other in a plane orthogonal to a carrying route is formed between the vertically opposed straightening rolls (12, 14). The pair of guide bar facings (30, 30) guiding a work material (W) are formed in generally rectangular flat plate shapes, and disposed on the inlet side and the outlet side for the work material (W) of both straightening rolls (12, 14). Also, the guide bar facings (30) are disposed aslant relative to a carrying face (PL) along the opening direction of the clearance (S) so as not to be interfered with both straightening rolls (12, 14).
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 19, 2004
    Publication date: October 4, 2007
    Applicant: Kabushiki Kaisha Daido Kikai Seisakusho
    Inventor: Yoshimitsu Kajita
  • Publication number: 20070227220
    Abstract: A finishing monoblock with optimised transmission ratio for a billet rolling plant comprises a plurality of rolling stands (G1-Gn) arranged in sequence suitable for forming a rolling line and actuated by a pair of mechanical transmissions (11, 12) in which bevel gear pairs are foreseen for the variation of ratio in the stands of the rotation speed of rolling cylinders (18). According to the invention, such a variation of the ratio in the stands is carried out through the combination of a first type (A, B) of bevel gear pairs with a second type of bevel gear pairs (C, D) and there is a set of four of cylindrical gears suitable for making four stands (C, D) with the same transmission bevel gear pair.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 27, 2005
    Publication date: October 4, 2007
    Inventor: Bruno Compagnoni
  • Publication number: 20070227221
    Abstract: An extrusion molding method of an extrusion press includes a first step of loading a billet, the outer surface of which is subjected to a barking treatment, into a container, and extruding the billet in such a manner as to leave a predetermined length, a second step of loading a next billet into the container, additionally extruding the preceding billet with the succeeding billet in such a manner as to leave a predetermined length of the succeeding billet; and a third step of loading a next billet into the container and additionally extruding the preceding billet with the succeeding billet in such a manner as to leave a predetermined discard length of the succeeding billet and stopping extrusion. By way of these steps, the container does not move while maintaining contact with a die, and the billet is continuously extruded by leftover and additional extrusion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 29, 2007
    Publication date: October 4, 2007
    Applicant: Ube Machinery Corporation, Ltd., a corporation of Japan
    Inventor: Takeharu Yamamoto
  • Publication number: 20070227222
    Abstract: A one-piece frame for a refrigerator shelf is produced from a planar blank having first and second side members that extend at an angle from a central cross member. The side members are folded along bend zones located between each of the first and second side members and the cross member such that, once folded, the first and second side members extend outward from the cross member forming a three-sided frame. At this point, edge portions of the first and second side members are folded along additional bend zones to form upper flanges. Preferably, an upper edge portion of the cross member is folded along still another bend zone to form a hook element. The hook element is designed to engage with a shelf support member provided in the refrigerated compartment such that the shelf frame is supported in a cantilevered manner.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 28, 2006
    Publication date: October 4, 2007
    Inventor: Forrest Wing
  • Publication number: 20070227223
    Abstract: Referring to a punch device in accordance with the invention, the punch stamp (10) is driven by a hydraulic actuating drive (6), in which case, in connection with an advance device (4) driven by a servo motor and travel-measuring systems on the ram axis and on the partial-apparatus axis (advance axis), the ram movement is freely programmable relative to the advance movement of the partial apparatus.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 4, 2007
    Publication date: October 4, 2007
    Applicant: Schuler Pressen GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventors: Ralph Utpadel, Gerhard Pick, Markus Rover, Jorg Vogele
  • Publication number: 20070227224
    Abstract: A tube is bent having a curved portion with a variable radius extending between first and second ends. The curved portion includes a circular arc portion with a constant radius and a clothoid transition portion with a variable radius. The circular arc portion extends from the first end toward a point of integration. At the point of integration, the circular arc portion merges with the transition portion. The transition portion extends from the point of integration to the second end. As the transition portion extends from the point of integration, its radius of curvature increases over its arc length, thereby, improving the quality of the bent tube by gradually bending the tube over a longer distance, thereby reducing local stresses on the bent portion of the tube.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 30, 2007
    Publication date: October 4, 2007
    Inventors: David Field, William Frey
  • Publication number: 20070227225
    Abstract: A scanner instrument used for scanning tubing that is being placed into an oil well or being removed from the oil well can be calibrated during retrieval of tubing from the well. Calibrating the tube scanner includes scanning a tubing standard and comparing the data from the standard scan to the known characteristics of the standard. The relationship between the scanned data and the known characteristics can be computed. The relationship between the scanned data and the known characteristics can be used as the calibration function for the scanner. Calibrating the tube scanner can also include scanning a string of tubing segments and then adjusting the data collected. The adjustment is based upon equalizing the data peaks that occur in the scan data at the coupling joints between tube segments.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 26, 2007
    Publication date: October 4, 2007
    Inventor: Frederic M. Newman
  • Publication number: 20070227226
    Abstract: A variable function voting solenoid-operated valve apparatus is provide, wherein the apparatus includes a first solenoid-operated valve, a second solenoid-operated valve and a bypass valve disposed in mutual fluid communication, wherein one or more of said first solenoid-operated valve, said second solenoid-operated valve and said bypass valve further comprises one or more air-to-move valve actuators; an air supply for delivering a supply of compressed air to said one or more air-to-move valve actuators; a plurality of pressure sensors, including a first pressure sensor disposed in fluid communication with said first solenoid-operated valve, a second pressure sensor in fluid communication with said second solenoid-operated valve, and a third pressure sensor disposed in fluid communication with said bypass valve; and an exhaust vent for venting pressure accumulated within one or more of said first solenoid-operated valve, said second solenoid-operated valve and said bypass valve to an external environment.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 1, 2004
    Publication date: October 4, 2007
    Inventors: Bryan Zachary, Angela Summers
  • Publication number: 20070227227
    Abstract: A liquid dispenser is provided which dispenses a predetermined amount of a liquid from a reservoir. It includes a negative pressure system to supply a negative pressure which acts on the liquid in the liquid reservoir while no liquid is being dispensed. The negative pressure system includes a negative pressure source, an electropneumatic regulator communicating with the negative pressure source to regulate the pressure inside the liquid reservoir to a desired negative pressure level, a pressure sensor provided between the electropneumatic regulator and reservoir, and a control means for controlling the electropneumatic regulator responsive to a signal from the pressure sensor to regulate the pressure inside the reservoir to the desired negative pressure level. It can assure a negative pressure which is stable even just after it is switched on and can thus work stably even right after the switch-on.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 26, 2005
    Publication date: October 4, 2007
    Applicant: MUSASHI ENGINEERING, INC.
    Inventor: Kazumasa Ikushima
  • Publication number: 20070227228
    Abstract: An anti-corrosion structure of a gas sensor is provided. The gas sensor includes a hollow cylindrical air cover assembly made up of an inner and an outer cover. The air cover assembly has formed therein air inlets through which air is admitted into the gas sensor. The inner and outer covers are joined together through at least one crimped portion which defines a water drain path extending from the air inlets to outside the air cover assembly, thereby draining the water entering at the air inlets out of the gas sensor. This avoids staying of the water between the inner and outer covers to minimize gap corrosion therebetween.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 23, 2007
    Publication date: October 4, 2007
    Applicant: DENSO CORPORATION
    Inventor: Masanobu Yamauchi
  • Publication number: 20070227229
    Abstract: An object is to provide a gas sensor which can suppress positional shift of a to-be-held member such as a gas detection element, as well as a method of manufacturing the gas sensor. A gas sensor (101) includes a gas detection element (111), a metallic shell (131), a plate packing (157), and a first packing (159). A proximal end surface (113t2) of a projection (113) of the gas sensor element (111) and a central inner circumferential surface (135n) of the metallic shell (131) form an acute-angle clearance (120). The first packing (159), which has a wedge-like cross section, is disposed in the clearance (120) such that the first packing (159) is pressed against the proximal end surface (113t2) of the projection (113) of the gas sensor element (111) and the central inner circumferential surface (135n) of the metallic shell (131).
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 18, 2007
    Publication date: October 4, 2007
    Inventors: Hisaharu Nishio, Takashi Nakao, Kazuhiro Kouzaki
  • Publication number: 20070227230
    Abstract: The invention concerns a gas analyzer, which comprises: an electromagnet that has an air gap; a power source for supplying cyclically variable electrical current/voltage to said electromagnet; a sample gas conduit and a reference gas conduit opening into said air gap; an exit conduit communicating with said air gap for removing the intermixed sample and reference gases; pressure detecting microphone or microphones connected to said sample gas conduit and to said reference gas conduit for sensing gas pressures at a first acoustic measuring frequency in the respective conduits for giving at least one acoustic pressure signal component; and electronics connected to said microphone(s) to receive said acoustic pressure signal component or components to form at least a first intermediate output signal describing content of a paramagnetic gas component in the sample gas.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 23, 2007
    Publication date: October 4, 2007
    Inventors: Heikki Haveri, Kurt Weckstrom
  • Publication number: 20070227231
    Abstract: A time-of-flight ion sensor for monitoring ion species in a plasma includes a housing. A drift tube is positioned in the housing. An extractor electrode is positioned in the housing at a first end of the drift tube so as to attract ions from the plasma. A plurality of electrodes is positioned at a first end of the drift tube proximate to the extractor electrode. The plurality of electrodes is biased so as to cause at least a portion of the attracted ions to enter the drift tube and to drift towards a second end of the drift tube. An ion detector is positioned proximate to the second end of the drift tube. The ion detector detects arrival times associated with the at least the portion of the attracted ions.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 23, 2007
    Publication date: October 4, 2007
    Applicant: VARIAN SEMICONDUCTOR EQUIPMENT ASSOCIATES, INC.
    Inventors: Bon-Woong Koo, Ziwei Fang, Ludovic Godet, Vikram Singh, Vassilis Vourloumis, Bernard Lindsay
  • Publication number: 20070227232
    Abstract: A gas sensor designed to ensure waterproofing and air ventilation is provided which includes a rubber bush fitted in an end of an air cover joined to a housing. The rubber bush has formed in a base portion thereof lead-pass holes and in a top portion thereof an air flow path through which air is introduced into an air chamber in the gas sensor. The air cover is crimped circumferentially to provide an elastic nip only to the base portion of the rubber bush, thereby ensuring tight fits of the leads in the lead-pass holes without deforming the air flow path undesirably. An ventilation filter is fit on a neck of the rubber bush between the base portion and the top portion in communication with the air flow path, thus ensuring the stability of entrance of the air into the air flow path through the ventilation filter.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 26, 2007
    Publication date: October 4, 2007
    Applicant: DENSO CORPORATION
    Inventor: Masanobu Yamauchi
  • Publication number: 20070227233
    Abstract: A method and an apparatus are provided for measuring the rate of permeation of a gas or vapour through a test sample with the gas container detachable from the sensor. The gas container consists of an upstream and a downstream chamber in communication with a test sample. The upstream chamber of the gas container containing the test sample is filled with a gas or vapour. The pressure increase in the downstream chamber is monitored and recorded at successive increments of time. To estimate the rate of permeation one or more experimental pressure values can be used as input for a mathematical approximation procedure. Using the starting pressure and one or more pressure values taken at different times allows the gas container with the test sample to be detached from the sensor and hence an increased sample throughput is realised.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 16, 2007
    Publication date: October 4, 2007
    Inventor: Holger Norenberg
  • Publication number: 20070227234
    Abstract: A Marsh funnel is equipped with a valve at the funnel outlet. The valve may be of the quick opening type selected from stem valves (internal of the funnel), ball valves, plug valves, flapper valves, butterfly valves, slide valves and the like.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 28, 2006
    Publication date: October 4, 2007
    Inventor: Michael Weisinger
  • Publication number: 20070227235
    Abstract: There are provided an apparatus for evaluating a piezoelectric film, which contains: a detection unit containing a pair of probes, each probe containing a cantilever and a probe tip; and an evaluation unit, wherein the detection unit is configured to respectively place the probe tips on both surfaces of a sample comprising a piezoelectric film so as to detect a displacement magnitude of the pair of probes, and the evaluation unit is configured to evaluate either or both a deformation and a displacement of the piezoelectric film based upon the detected displacement magnitude of the pair of probes, and a method for evaluating a piezoelectric film by using the apparatus for evaluating a piezoelectric film.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 30, 2006
    Publication date: October 4, 2007
    Applicant: FUJITSU LIMITED
    Inventors: Toshihisa Anazawa, Mineharu Tsukada
  • Publication number: 20070227236
    Abstract: A new type of indenter is described. This device combines certain sensing and structural elements of atomic force microscopy with a module designed for the use of indentation probes, conventional diamond and otherwise, as well as unconventional designs, to produce high resolution and otherwise superior indentation measurements.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 13, 2007
    Publication date: October 4, 2007
    Inventors: Flavio Bonilla, Roger Proksch, Jason Cleveland, Tim Sauter
  • Publication number: 20070227237
    Abstract: A starting motor tester that may apply electricity to the starting motor while the starting motor is loaded by an engine, measure the power that is consumed by the starting motor while the starting motor is loaded by the engine, determine the condition of the starting motor based on the amount of power that is measured, and communicate the determined condition of the starting motor. The determination may also be based on the RPM of the engine.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 16, 2006
    Publication date: October 4, 2007
    Inventors: Alejandro Brott, Dennis Thibedeau
  • Publication number: 20070227238
    Abstract: A method and a device for measuring the dimensions of a constant velocity joint. In the method, for example, the cylindrical part of an outer member with a specified offset value is supported on the support part of a dimension measuring device for the outer member. On the other hand, a holding bar is inserted into a recessed part formed in the shaft part of the outer member. In this case, balls installed at the tip of the support part are inserted into the ball grooves of the cylindrical part. In this state, a rotating member is rotated to bring a probe into contact with the inside wall of the cylindrical part. The measurement core of a micro gauge is displaced according to the displacement of the probe, and the amount of the displacement thereof is displayed as the amount of the variation of the needle of the micro gauge.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 14, 2005
    Publication date: October 4, 2007
    Inventors: Takeshi Takagi, Minoru Koyama, Mitsuyoshi Nakatani
  • Publication number: 20070227239
    Abstract: In a measuring device for the measurement of the brake torque on an aircraft landing gear, a connecting element that is transversally loaded by said brake torque is provided with measuring elements which produce a measuring signal in function of a deformation of said connecting element. In one of two preferred variants, said measuring elements are attached to the surface of a cavity in said connecting element, and in the second preferred embodiment, a corresponding sensor is introduced into said connecting element as a whole, said sensor being so designed that deformations affect its enclosure and deform the latter as well.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 28, 2007
    Publication date: October 4, 2007
    Inventors: Jacques Perriard, Felix Schmid
  • Publication number: 20070227240
    Abstract: A data communication system installed in an electric machine includes a transmission terminal and a reception terminal both mounted on the electric machine, a transmission-side opposed conductive member disposed on the transmission terminal, a transmission circuit for applying voltage between the transmission-side conductive member and the conductive body, thereby changing electric field generated on the entire surface of the conductive body, the voltage being changed according to information to be transmitted, a reception-side opposed conductive member provided on the reception terminal, thereby being capable of generating potential difference according to the electric field between the conductive body and the reception-side opposed conductive member, and a reception circuit for receiving the information based on a change in the potential difference between the conductive body and the reception-side opposed conductive member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 20, 2006
    Publication date: October 4, 2007
    Applicant: PACIFIC INDUSTRIAL CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Shinichi Kawase, Youichi Okubo, Yasuhisa Tsujita, Syuji Aoyama
  • Publication number: 20070227241
    Abstract: Techniques for evaluating physical aspects of a formation fluid from within a wellbore include changing pressure on a sample of the formation fluid and transmitting at least one acoustic pulse through the fluid sample and analyzing acoustic information collected. Apparatus and methods for the evaluating involve using at least one acoustic transducer. Analyzing typically involves use of formulae that relate the fluid's equation of state and other properties to a change in the sound speed in the fluid as a function of pressure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 30, 2006
    Publication date: October 4, 2007
    Inventor: Rocco DiFoggio
  • Publication number: 20070227242
    Abstract: The flow sensor comprises a heater arranged between two sensing thermopiles. In addition, at least one monitoring thermocouple is provided for measuring the temperature of the heater. The signal from the monitoring thermocouple is used as a reference voltage for an A/D converter, which converts the signals from the sensing thermopiles. This allows to increase the resolution of the converter at higher flows, which results in more accurate measurements.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 22, 2007
    Publication date: October 4, 2007
    Inventors: Felix Mayer, Moritz Lechner, Mark Hornung, Marc Waldkirch
  • Publication number: 20070227243
    Abstract: method for manufacturing a measuring device for determining and/or monitoring a process variable of a medium in a container. The measuring device includes: A mechanically oscillatable unit, which is securable via a securement to a sensor housing and/or to the container; and a driver/receiver unit, which excites the mechanically oscillatable unit to oscillate, or receives the oscillations of the mechanically oscillatable unit. The mechanically oscillatable unit is excited to oscillate, and the reaction forces and/or reaction moments are detected, which act on the securement due to the oscillations of the mechanically oscillatable unit, that a report is issued, when the reaction forces and/or reaction moments exceed predeterminable limit values, and that, in the case of a report, the mechanically oscillatable unit is adjusted as regards its oscillation properties.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 14, 2004
    Publication date: October 4, 2007
    Applicant: Endress + Hauser GmbH + Co. KG
    Inventors: Sergej Lopatin, Burkhard Lutterbeck
  • Publication number: 20070227244
    Abstract: A fluid level switch for a machine having a fluid reservoir adapted to contain a fluid at an acceptable level. The fluid level switch includes a mounting plate, a float housing, and a float assembly positioned within the float housing. The mounting plate retains first and second contacts. The float housing is configured to receive fluid from the fluid reservoir and the float assembly is movable in response to the level of fluid in the float housing. The float assembly includes a contact member electrically connecting the first and second contacts when the level of the fluid is below the acceptable level. The contact member is coupled to the float for movement with the float and for movement relative to the float.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 28, 2006
    Publication date: October 4, 2007
    Inventors: Richard Dykstra, Gary Gracyalny, David Procknow, John Garthwaite
  • Publication number: 20070227245
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a liquid measuring vessel having a removable volume indicating clip.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 14, 2007
    Publication date: October 4, 2007
    Applicant: Browne & Co.
    Inventors: David Green, David Chan
  • Publication number: 20070227246
    Abstract: Methods and systems for analyzing engine unbalance conditions are disclosed. In one embodiment, a method includes receiving vibrational data from a plurality of locations distributed over an engine and a surrounding engine support structure, and inputting the vibrational data into a neural network inverse model. The neural network inverse model establishes a relationship between the vibrational data and an unbalance condition of the engine, and outputs diagnostic information indicating the unbalance condition of the engine. In a further embodiment, a method further includes subjecting the vibrational data to a Fast Fourier Transformation to extract a desired once per revolution vibrational data prior to input to the neural network inverse model.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 20, 2007
    Publication date: October 4, 2007
    Inventors: John Vian, Matt Travis
  • Publication number: 20070227247
    Abstract: Adaptive circuits and methods for reducing vibration-induced bias errors in inertial sensors are disclosed. An adaptive circuit for reducing vibration or shock induced errors in an inertial sensor having a proof mass and sense electrode may include a sense bias voltage source, a charge amplifier, a means for detecting and/or anticipating an external vibration or shock on the inertial sensor, and a means for selectively dampening the proof masses and/or adjusting the gain sensitivity of the charge amplifier in response to an external vibration or shock on the inertial sensor. A dampening resistive element may be provided to dampen the proof mass motion in response to an external vibration or shock on the inertial sensor. Alternatively, or in addition, the gain sensitivity of the rate signal outputted by the charge amplifier can be adjusted in response to an external vibration or shock on the inertial sensor.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 28, 2006
    Publication date: October 4, 2007
    Applicant: HONEYWELL INTERNATIONAL INC.
    Inventor: Mark Weber
  • Publication number: 20070227248
    Abstract: There is described a fluid flow sensor (10) for sensing a flow (F) of a fluid (120) through a region. The sensor (10) comprises a magnetic circuit (50, 60a, 60b) for applying a magnetic field (70) to the region, and electrodes (40a, 40b) for sensing a potential (V) generated in operation between the electrodes (40a, 40b) in response to the fluid (120) flowing through the magnetic field (70). Each electrode (40) includes a metal element (130; 300; 400; 500), a metal halide element (110; 310, 320; 410; 520), and an electrically conductive porous element (100; 330; 420; 530). The porous element (100; 330; 420; 530) hinders progressive loss of the metal halide element (110; 310, 320; 410; 520) to the flow (F) and provides an electrically conductive path between the flow (F) and the metal halide element (110; 310, 320; 410; 520) and thereby to the metal element (130; 300; 400; 500).
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 30, 2005
    Publication date: October 4, 2007
    Applicant: SENTEC LIMITED
    Inventor: Antony Glauser
  • Publication number: 20070227249
    Abstract: In a method for the ultrasonic testing of a workpiece (2) in a curved area of its surface, in particular of a workpiece (2) made of a fiber composite material, an ultrasonic test head (10) is acoustically coupled to the workpiece in this area, and includes an ultrasonic transducer arrangement (12) comprising a plurality (N) of individually driveable transducer elements (20i) which are arranged next to one another. In chronologically successive test cycles, a number (n) of transducer elements (20i) are respectively combined to form a group and are driven in a plurality of test pulses within this test cycle in a time delayed manner with respect to one another such that the transmitted ultrasound beam (30a-d) in this test cycle is swept within a predetermined angular range (?1, ?2), so that one of the number of echo signals, corresponding to the number of test pulses, for each group is received from different directions of the workpiece (2).
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 26, 2007
    Publication date: October 4, 2007
    Inventors: Rainer Meier, Jana Becker, Thomas Rehfeldt
  • Publication number: 20070227250
    Abstract: Improved apparatus, systems, and methods for inspecting a structure are provided that use a probe having two ultrasonic transducer arrays. This enables simultaneous testing using two different test frequencies. The probe uses pulse echo ultrasonic signals at different frequencies to inspect the structure. The probe includes a support body having a fluid conduit formed therein. The fluid conduit provides flow paths for a couplant (such as water) that is used to couple the ultrasonic signals between the structure under test and the arrays. The fluid conduit is configured to quickly eject couplant and bubbles contained in the couplant.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 6, 2007
    Publication date: October 4, 2007
    Inventors: James Kennedy, Barry Fetzer, Jeffry Garvey, Mark Little
  • Publication number: 20070227251
    Abstract: A method for acquiring vibration data from a plurality of rotating machines of a single type by using a portable vibration measuring device having means for measuring machine vibrations, means for data input, means for presenting information to a user, and a memory, is provided, which comprises: (a) uploading a measurement prescription template into the memory, the template being specific to the type of machine but unspecific to individual machines of the plurality of machines; (b) selecting an individual machine from the plurality of machines; (c) connecting the vibration measuring means to a measuring point at the individual machine; (d) acquiring vibration data by measurement from the measuring point; and (e) attributing the vibration data to the individual machine and storing the attributed vibration data in the memory; wherein the template is adapted to provide instructions regarding steps (b) to (e) to the vibration measuring device and, via the information presenting means, to the user, which instructi
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 31, 2006
    Publication date: October 4, 2007
    Applicant: Prueftechnik Dieter Busch AG
    Inventors: Johann Loesl, Jan Glasebach, Karl Achter
  • Publication number: 20070227252
    Abstract: The present invention pertains to differential pressure transducers. In an embodiment of the invention, a differential pressure transducer includes a transducer housing, a diaphragm, a bellows, and a sensing assembly. The transducer housing, diaphragm, and bellows are coupled to form a pressure chamber. The pressure chamber is separated into two portions by the diaphragm, with each portion arranged to be filled with a process fluid. A pressure differential across the diaphragm causes displacement of the diaphragm. Such displacement is measured by the sensing assembly and used to calculate the pressure differential between the two process fluids.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 22, 2007
    Publication date: October 4, 2007
    Inventors: Travis Leitko, Richard Lopushansky, Larry Jeffers, John Berthold
  • Publication number: 20070227253
    Abstract: A circuit that senses a process variable, comprises a voltage divider that includes first and second capacitances. At least one of the capacitances is varied by the process variable. Divider ends receive modulated potentials, and a divider center tap coupled to a detector. The detector has a detector output representing carrier frequency range components. A control circuit controls a baseband envelope of the modulated potentials as a function of the detector output.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 26, 2007
    Publication date: October 4, 2007
    Inventor: Lowell A. Kleven
  • Publication number: 20070227254
    Abstract: A pressure sensor module 2, wherein a holding space 34 is formed between a diaphragm 22 and a thin film layer 31, and a vent hole 321 communicating with the exterior of a first case is provided in the holding space 34. In the above pressure sensor module, even when a corrosive gas or chemical solution is used as a fluid to be measured and a corrosive gas component originated from the fluid to be measured permeates into the holding space 34, the permeated corrosive gas component can be discharged to the outside of the case through the vent hole 321. As a result, the corrosion of the diaphragm 22 by the fluid to be measured can be prevented, which results in the achievement of a prolonged service life of the pressure sensor module 2.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 1, 2005
    Publication date: October 4, 2007
    Applicant: NAGANO KEIKI CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Kenji Nagasawa, Ayumu Sakamoto, Takahiro Shimada
  • Publication number: 20070227255
    Abstract: Observability of damage precursor, damage and usage states, or event occurrence may be enhanced by modifying component materials to include self-monitoring materials or by processing test material to alter the surface properties. The properties of the self monitoring materials, such as magnetic permeability or electrical conductivity, are monitored with electromagnetic sensors and provide greater property variations with component condition than the original component material. Processing includes shot peening or laser welding.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 25, 2007
    Publication date: October 4, 2007
    Inventors: Neil Goldfine, Vladimir Zilberstein, David Grundy, Andrew Washabaugh, Darrell Schlicker, Ian Shay, Robert Lyons, Christopher Craven, Christopher Root, Mark Windoloski, Volker Weiss
  • Publication number: 20070227256
    Abstract: Disclosed is an apparatus for sensing a force, comprising an actuator having a conductive deformable surface, a substrate having a first conductive trace and a second conductive trace, a housing coupled to the actuator and to the substrate, holding the actuator in proximity to the substrate, and a circuit for measuring a capacitance value.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 31, 2006
    Publication date: October 4, 2007
    Inventor: David Wright
  • Publication number: 20070227257
    Abstract: A multi-zone capacitive force sensing apparatus/method is disclosed. In one embodiment, an apparatus includes one or more capacitors each having an upper conductive surface and a lower conductive surface substantially parallel to the upper conductive surface, a housing with a top plate and a bottom plate to encompass the capacitors, and a sensor in the housing to generate a measurement based on a change in a distance between the upper conductive surface and the lower conductive surface of each of the capacitors when a contact zone of the top plate associated with the each of the plurality of capacitors is deflected by a force applied on the contact zone. The apparatus may also include a comparison module associated with the sensor to generate a signal indicating unevenness of a force applied on the top plate when there is any significant difference between measurements of the capacitors.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 3, 2006
    Publication date: October 4, 2007
    Inventors: Divyasimha Harish, William Dallenbach, King Wong, John Schultz
  • Publication number: 20070227258
    Abstract: An energy beam is applied to an evaluation region of a sample, a phase distribution image of the energy beam transmitted to the sample in the evaluation region is obtained, and the obtained phase distribution image is analyzed, whereby a stress distribution in the evaluation region is measured. This measuring method measures a stress, based on a phase distribution image, whereby the stress can be measured irrespectively of a crystalline structure of an evaluation sample. A phase distribution image is used, whereby two-dimensional distribution images of the stress, density and refractive index can be obtained.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 22, 2006
    Publication date: October 4, 2007
    Applicant: FUJITSU LIMITED
    Inventor: Takeshi Soeda
  • Publication number: 20070227259
    Abstract: A tensile strength testing machine comprises a frame assembly that defines a test zone. The frame assembly includes a frame member that has first and second opposed ends. The ends have inner sides that generally face one another across the test zone, and outer sides that are generally opposed to one another and the test zone. An arbor element is mounted for generally axial movement relative to the first end. The arbor element is slidably mounted in the first end. The arbor element projects inwardly into the test zone and outwardly from the outer side of the first end. The arbor element is adapted to being attached to a test specimen, which mounted in the test zone. A portion of the arbor element that projects outwardly from the outer side of the first end is generally surrounded by an array of jack bolts. The jack bolts are threadably mounted in a collar member that is substantially axially fixed relative to the arbor element.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 27, 2007
    Publication date: October 4, 2007
    Inventor: Tony J. Alba
  • Publication number: 20070227260
    Abstract: Please replace the current Abstract with the following new Abstract. The package structure may includes: a sensor chip having a detecting device formed on a front surface of a substrate; through electrodes that are arranged at predetermined positions of the substrate around the detecting device, electrically insulated at circumferences thereof, pierce the substrate from the front surface to a rear surface, are connected with lead patterns of the detecting device on the front surface side, and connected with signal fetching means for the outside on the rear surface side; a flow path body on which the sensor chip is mounted and which has a flow path (a conduction path) for a fluid being formed on a surface facing the detecting device and sealing means.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 7, 2007
    Publication date: October 4, 2007
    Inventors: Shinichi Ike, Nobuhiko Zushi, Takeshi Nishi
  • Publication number: 20070227261
    Abstract: An ultrasonic flow rate measuring device, especially a clamp-on ultrasonic flow rate measuring device, with at least one ultrasonic transducer (8) for measuring the flow rate through a line through which a medium flows. The ultrasonic transducer (8) is located within an electromagnetic shielding arrangement (6). Thus, an ultrasonic flow rate measuring device which delivers a good signal-to-noise ratio is achieved.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 12, 2007
    Publication date: October 4, 2007
    Applicant: KROHNE AG
    Inventors: Marcel Meijlom MOLENAAR, Jan Teunis Aart PORS, Arie HUIJZER
  • Publication number: 20070227262
    Abstract: An ultrasonic flow rate measuring device for measuring the flow rate through a line through which a medium flows has at least one ultrasonic transducer that has a piezo element and a connecting element designed for attaching the ultrasonic transducer to the line with the piezo element attached to the connecting element. An intermediate layer including a plate is disposed between the piezo element and the connecting element that is electrically conductive and attachable to an electromagnetic shield. Thus, an ultrasonic flow rate measuring device that delivers a greater signal-to-noise ratio is achieved.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 12, 2007
    Publication date: October 4, 2007
    Applicant: KROHNE AG
    Inventors: Marcel Meijlom MOLENAAR, Jan Teunis Aart PORS, Arie HUIJZER
  • Publication number: 20070227263
    Abstract: A flow rate-measuring apparatus comprises a housing having a passage for supplying a liquid thereto, and a pair of detecting sections provided at both ends of the housing, and which contain sonic wave transmitter/receiver sections capable of transmitting and receiving sonic wave signals. Cover members are installed on each of the detecting sections, wherein the cover members face the passage in the housing. Curved surfaces, which expand toward the passage, are provided respectively on ends of the cover members.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 20, 2007
    Publication date: October 4, 2007
    Applicant: SMC KABUSHIKI KAISHA
    Inventors: Yoshihiro Fukano, Takamitsu Suzuki
  • Publication number: 20070227264
    Abstract: An ultrasonic flow rate measuring device for measuring the flow rate of a medium flowing through a line (1), with at least one ultrasonic transducer (2) and a guide frame (3) for guiding and holding the ultrasonic transducer (2). An electrical connecting box (12) which has a connection (13) for a cable (14) to the ultrasonic transducer (2) and a connection (15) for a cable (16) to the measuring device electronics is provided. Thus, in a clamp-on ultrasonic flow rate measuring device, simple cabling is achieved.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 12, 2007
    Publication date: October 4, 2007
    Applicant: KROHNE AG
    Inventors: Jan Pors, Jeroen v.d. Berg, Marcel Molenaar, Jankees Hogendoorn