Patents Issued in August 7, 2008
  • Publication number: 20080184801
    Abstract: This present invention relates to a system for measuring resonant frequency and delay time of the quartz crystal microbalance. The system includes a transistor oscillating circuit, a switch circuit, a comparator circuit, and a control circuit. The transistor oscillating circuit comprises a quartz oscillator for generating an original oscillating signal. The switch circuit is coupled to the transistor oscillating circuit for outputting a start signal to generate the original oscillating signal. The comparator circuit is coupled to the transistor oscillating circuit for transforming the original oscillating signal to a square wave oscillating signal. The control circuit is coupled to the comparator circuit for receiving the square oscillating signal to estimate the resonant frequency and the delay time of the quartz crystal microbalance.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 13, 2007
    Publication date: August 7, 2008
    Applicant: Tatung Company
    Inventors: Chao-Fa Lee, Tsong-Rong Yan, Cheng-Hsing Kuo
  • Publication number: 20080184802
    Abstract: A mount structure for a mobile unit includes a wall member, a sensor device, and a color film. The wall member is provided to the mobile unit, and the wall member has a through hole and an outer surface. The sensor device is mounted on the wall member via the through hole such that a sensing element of the sensor device is able to perform sensing. The sensor device is coupled to the wall member in a state, where the sensor device has a portion that is generally flush with the outer surface of the wall member, and that is provided inside the through hole. The color film is adhered to an entire surface of the outer surface of the wall member, and the entire surface has an opening of the through hole. The sensor device contacts the color film.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 1, 2008
    Publication date: August 7, 2008
    Applicant: DENSO CORPORATION
    Inventor: Yoshihisa Sato
  • Publication number: 20080184803
    Abstract: A plurality of sound sensors is disposed in a space of interest. Each sensor comprises a light-emitting output. Each sensor can be positioned at a specific location, such as at an ear location for a seated listener. An excitation source can provide a specified acoustical energy stimulus to the space. A user can obtain a visual impression of acoustical response of the space corresponding to the sound sensors' positions. An image acquisition system can acquire an image of the sound sensors responding to a stimulus. Acquired images can be analyzed to determine response characteristics. A presentation system can provide a display of response characteristics.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 31, 2008
    Publication date: August 7, 2008
    Inventor: Charles G. Seagrave
  • Publication number: 20080184804
    Abstract: The invention relates to a device and a method for detecting a fault in a measurement device comprising a resonator and means for measuring a resonant frequency of the resonator. According to the invention, the device further includes means delivering information (S3) representative of the quality factor of the resonator (3) at the resonant frequency.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 20, 2005
    Publication date: August 7, 2008
    Applicant: Thales
    Inventors: Bertrand Leverrier, Olivier Lefort
  • Publication number: 20080184805
    Abstract: A method for testing integrated circuits includes forming a plurality of substantially identical first test structures, each comprising a first via structure connected to a first metal line, stress testing the plurality of first test structures to obtain a first plurality of failure times, and forming a plurality of substantially identical second test structures, each comprising a second via structure connected to a second metal line, wherein the second via structure has a substantially different reliability from the first via structure, and wherein the first metal line and the second metal line are substantially identical. The method further includes stress testing the plurality of second test structures to obtain a second plurality of failure times, and determining early failures of the plurality of first test structures and the plurality of second test structures.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 29, 2007
    Publication date: August 7, 2008
    Inventors: Yi-Lung Cheng, BL Lin, CC Peng, C.S. Tsai, Hway-Chi Lin
  • Publication number: 20080184806
    Abstract: The device according to the present invention relates to an instrument for measuring perforation resistance.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 5, 2006
    Publication date: August 7, 2008
    Inventor: Emilio Valentini
  • Publication number: 20080184807
    Abstract: A stage is adapted to support the test piece. A loading section is operable to apply the compression force to the test piece supported on the stage. A detecting section is operable to detect the compression force applied to the test piece. An elastic member elastically supports the stage so that the stage is movable in an action direction of the compression force.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 1, 2008
    Publication date: August 7, 2008
    Applicant: NITTO DENKO CORPORATION
    Inventor: Shinya NAKANO
  • Publication number: 20080184808
    Abstract: A mobile testing device is adjustable to perform different types of tension tests. The measuring device can conduct tests on components located on the ground or on elevated components. The measuring device can also carry out tensile strength tests on wire cables, slings, and other components. The measuring device can also be used to calibrate weight-indicating devices and instruments that indicate tensile strength. The positioning and movement of the gantry is achieved by using an assembly of hydraulic cylinders. Different working positions can thus be obtained and more than a trivial amount of physical effort is not required to operate the device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 6, 2008
    Publication date: August 7, 2008
    Applicant: PETROIL S.R.L.
    Inventor: Victor Berra
  • Publication number: 20080184809
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to a liquid droplet monitoring and measuring apparatus for use with a liquid dispensing system of the type comprising a nozzle having a liquid dispensing tip and means for delivering the dispensed liquid through the nozzle onto a receiving substrate. Further, the invention provides a method of monitoring and measuring the volume of a liquid droplet as it is being dispensed from a liquid dispensing system comprising a nozzle having a dispensing tip. The main use for the invention is in the fields of drug discovery, genomics, medical diagnostics and other life science-related applications. The invention could also be used in other areas for example in the food industry, cosmetic industry or the chemical industry.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 21, 2007
    Publication date: August 7, 2008
    Applicant: Allegro Research Limited
    Inventors: Igor V. Shvets, Cecilia Franken, Tomasz P. Zawada
  • Publication number: 20080184810
    Abstract: A device and method are provided for the reliable calibration of detector units for the detection of low-molecular substances in a liquid flow.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 25, 2005
    Publication date: August 7, 2008
    Inventors: Dario Kriz, Margareta Krook
  • Publication number: 20080184811
    Abstract: A method is provided for measuring the flow rate of a medium in a volume subjected to a magnetic field. The electrical resistance of a semiconductor arranged adjacent to the volume is measured, and the flow rate of the medium is computed from this electrical resistance.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 12, 2008
    Publication date: August 7, 2008
    Applicant: Zylum Beteiligungsgesellschaft mbH & Co. Patent II KG
    Inventor: Gerd STANGE
  • Publication number: 20080184812
    Abstract: An air flow measurement device includes an air pipe securely formed inside the cylindrical tube, a first measuring tube securely formed inside the cylindrical tube and having a first open end located at an inner side face of the air pipe so as to measure radial pressure of air flowing through the air pipe and a second open end extending out of the cylindrical tube. An L shaped measuring tube is securely formed inside the cylindrical tube and has a first open end located at the inner side face of the air pipe so as to measure axial pressure of air flowing through the air pipe and a second open end extending out of the cylindrical tube.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 5, 2007
    Publication date: August 7, 2008
    Applicant: APEX MEDICAL CORP.
    Inventors: Neng-Yu Pan, Ya-Ping Lin
  • Publication number: 20080184813
    Abstract: A Coriolis flow meter (5) is provided according to an embodiment of the invention. The meter (5) includes one or more flow conduits (103), at least two pickoff sensors (105, 105?) affixed to the one or more flow conduits (103), a driver (104) configured to vibrate the one or more flow conduits (103), and meter electronics (20) coupled to the at least two pickoff sensors (105, 105?) and to the driver (104). The meter electronics (20) vibrate the one or more flow conduits (103) of the flow meter (5) with a first vibration frequency and in a first out-of-phase bending mode, measure a first vibrational response, with the first vibrational response being generated in response to the first vibration frequency, vibrate the one or more flow conduits (103) with at least a second vibration frequency and in the first out-of-phase bending mode, measure a second vibrational response, and determine at least a mass flow rate and a viscosity using the first and second vibrational responses.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 29, 2005
    Publication date: August 7, 2008
    Applicant: MICRO MOTION, INC.
    Inventors: Andrew T. Patten, Graeme Ralph Duffill, Denis M. Henrot
  • Publication number: 20080184814
    Abstract: Meter electronics (20) for processing sensor signals in a flow meter and for computing mass flow rate, density or volume flow rate includes an interface (201) for receiving a first sensor signal and a second sensor signal and a processing system (203) in communication with the interface (201) and configured to generate a ninety degree phase shift from the first sensor signal with a Hilbert transform and compute a phase difference from the ninety degree phase shift, the first sensor signal and the second sensor signal. A frequency is computed from the first sensor signal and the ninety degree phase shift. A second ninety degree phase shift can be generated from the second sensor signal.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 5, 2005
    Publication date: August 7, 2008
    Applicant: Micro Motion, Inc.
    Inventors: Mark James Bell, Richard L. Maginnis, Craig B. McAnally
  • Publication number: 20080184815
    Abstract: Meter electronics (20) for determining a mass fraction of flow components in a flow material flowing is provided according to an embodiment of the invention. The meter electronics (20) include an interface (201) for receiving a frequency response of the flow material and a processing system (203). The processing system (203) receives the frequency response from the interface (201) and breaks out the frequency response into at least a gas frequency component and a fluid frequency component. The processing system (203) determines an overall density from the frequency response and determines a gas density from the gas frequency component. The processing system (203) determines the void fraction of gas from the frequency response and one or more of the gas frequency component and the fluid frequency component. The processing system (203) determines the mass fraction from the void fraction of gas multiplied by a ratio of the gas density divided by the overall density.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 19, 2006
    Publication date: August 7, 2008
    Applicant: MICRO MOTION, INC.
    Inventors: Mark James Bell, Craig B. McAnally
  • Publication number: 20080184816
    Abstract: The measurement transducer includes a transducer housing, which exhibits a plurality of natural oscillation modes, as well as at least one first flow tube held oscillatably in the transducer housing, vibrating at least at times, and conveying at least a portion of the medium to be measured. Additionally, the measurement transducer includes an electromechanical, especially electrodynamic, exciter arrangement acting on the at least one flow tube for producing and/or maintaining mechanical oscillations of the at least one flow tube, and a sensor arrangement reacting to movements of the flow tube, especially bending oscillations, for producing at least one oscillation measurement signal representing oscillations of the flow tube.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 31, 2008
    Publication date: August 7, 2008
    Applicant: Endress + Hauser Flowtec AG
    Inventors: Martin Anklin-Imhof, Christian Schuetze
  • Publication number: 20080184817
    Abstract: To conduct a fluid, the transducer has a flow tube which in operation is vibrated by an excitation assembly and whose inlet-side and outlet-side vibrations are sensed by means of a sensor arrangement. To produce shear forces in the fluid, the flow tube is at least intermittently excited into torsional vibrations about a longitudinal flow-tube axis. The transducer further comprises a torsional vibration absorber which is fixed to the flow tube and which in operation covibrates with the torsionally vibrating flow tube, thus producing reactive torques which at least partially balance torques developed in the vibrating flow tube. One of the advantages of the transducer disclosed is that it is dynamically balanced to a large extent even in the face of variations in fluid density or viscosity.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 31, 2008
    Publication date: August 7, 2008
    Applicant: Endress + Hauser Flowtec AG
    Inventors: Alfred Rieder, Wolfgang Drahm
  • Publication number: 20080184818
    Abstract: A device for measuring mechanical forces comprising a sensor adapted to measure difference of stresses in two orthogonal measuring directions. The device comprises at least one force receiving element adapted to receive the forces to be measured, and the sensor is adapted to measure the forces applied to the force receiving element. The device further comprises a transducer of a tubular shape, adapted to transfer the forces from the force receiving element to the sensor and to convert the forces received by the receiving element into forces suitable for the sensor, the force receiving element comprises a flange extending outward in a radial direction from the transducer, and the force receiving element and the sensor are mounted at a distance from each other along the longitudinal axis of the transducer.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 4, 2008
    Publication date: August 7, 2008
    Inventor: Ulf A. Lifvenborg
  • Publication number: 20080184819
    Abstract: A capacitance type sensor includes a first flange having four flexible portions and fixed to a base 300; and a second flange having four flexible portions and being opposed to the first flange. A connecting shaft standing at the center of each flexible portion of the first flange is connected to a connecting shaft standing at the center of each flexible portion of the second flange. A pair of electrodes E11 and E12; a pair of electrodes E21 and E22; a pair of electrodes E31 and E32; and a pair of electrodes E41 and E42 are fixed on the upper face of the base 300. The sets of pairs of electrodes, flexible portions of the first flange, flexible portions of the second flange, and connecting shafts are arranged around the Z-axis at regular angular intervals of 90 degrees at the same distance from the Z-axis.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 5, 2007
    Publication date: August 7, 2008
    Applicant: Nitta Corporation
    Inventor: Hideo Morimoto
  • Publication number: 20080184820
    Abstract: In a sensor sheet, first electrodes (11) each covered with a pressure-sensitive resistive member and second electrodes (21) each covered with a pressure-sensitive resistive member are disposed to extend perpendicularly to each other in a plan view. A core member (40) made of a hard material is disposed over four detection regions where the first electrodes (11) and the second electrodes (21) overlap each other in a plan view. X-, Y-, and Z-axial components (Fx, Fy, Fz) of a force (F) externally applied to the sensor sheet (1) are detected on the basis of changes in the contact resistance values (R1, R2, R3, R4) corresponding the four detection regions over which one core member (40) is disposed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 28, 2008
    Publication date: August 7, 2008
    Applicant: NITTA CORPORATION
    Inventor: Hideo Morimoto
  • Publication number: 20080184821
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for presenting various surfaces of particles within a sample to a sensor device is provided. More particularly, embodiments of the present invention provide a pair of concentric counter-rotating surfaces and a dividing member fixed radially therebetween so as to form a scanning chamber wherein sample particles are reoriented relative to the scanning field of an adjacent sensor device by the counter-rotation of the surfaces and the consequent recirculation of the sample particles through the scanning chamber.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 1, 2008
    Publication date: August 7, 2008
    Inventors: WILHELM G. GRETEN, Roland Welle
  • Publication number: 20080184822
    Abstract: Disclosed is a device for pipetting a liquid, comprising a pipette body enclosing a pipette volume, into which a fluid medium can be placed and in which an actuator that controllably displaces the medium in the pipette volume is provided, as well as a pipette tip, which can be connected to the pipette volume in an fluid-tight manner.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 24, 2002
    Publication date: August 7, 2008
    Inventor: Thomas Lisec
  • Publication number: 20080184823
    Abstract: A multichannel pipette, including a grip part defining a longitudinal axis and including a piston-driving device movable axially thereon, a displacement part rotating about the axis and having cylinder and piston arrangements, and a connection device for detachably connecting the grip part to the displacement part and permitting a rotation of the displacement about the longitudinal axis. The connection device includes threaded connection elements engaged with one another. The pistons move axially to the cylinders via a piston-driving device. A connection part of the threaded elements is axially connected with the cylinders and includes a clearance for a rotary bearing provided therein. Form-fit configurations on the support and connection parts are engaged to prevent a reverse rotation of the connection part relative to the support part. By a manual release action, the form-fit configurations disengage, such that the connection part rotates in a reverse rotation relative to the support part.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 1, 2008
    Publication date: August 7, 2008
    Applicant: BRAND GMBH + CO KG
    Inventors: Ottmar KNEUCKER, Michael ERTL
  • Publication number: 20080184824
    Abstract: In a crimped hose, a length of rubber tubing is crimped into a blind-ended ferrule. To determine whether the tubing has been fully inserted, a dimple is pressed into the ferrule. The force needed to produce the dimple is small or large, depending whether the rubber is inserted properly, and the difference is large enough to serve as a detector. Measuring the dimple-force provides a commercially-useful test for proper insertion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 7, 2007
    Publication date: August 7, 2008
    Inventors: Alfred D. Napolitano, David William Ernst, Ryan Everett Lebold, Jeffrey John Thomas
  • Publication number: 20080184825
    Abstract: A key testing apparatus (100) is provided. The key testing apparatus includes a base (11) and an actuator (12). The actuator includes a testing member (17) and a mounting member (18). The mounting member includes at least one base board (181) fixed to the base, a lower board (182), a mounting board (183), and a mounting sheet (185). The lower board is adjustably attached to the base board. The mounting board is adjustably attached to the lower board. The mounting sheet is adjustably attached to the mounting board. The clamping device includes a base desk (131), a clamping platform (132), at least one first clamping board (133) and second clamping board (134). The base desk is adjustably attached to the base. The clamping platform, at least one first clamping board, and at least one second clamping board are adjustably attached to the base desk.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 27, 2007
    Publication date: August 7, 2008
    Applicants: SHENZHEN FUTAIHONG PRECISION INDUSTRY CO., LTD., SUTECH TRADING LIMITED
    Inventors: LEI LI, PING CHEN, ZHI CHENG, JIAN-GUI WU, HONG-YAN LI, XUE-LIANG ZHAI, CHANG-FA SUN, YONG-ZHI TAO
  • Publication number: 20080184826
    Abstract: Variables such as injection pressure and injection velocity are detected at a predetermined sampling cycle for each molding cycle and the variables for a plurality of past molding cycles starting from the latest molding cycle are stored. Change patterns of the stored variables of the respective molding cycles are displayed in the form of graphs in which the first axis represents time (the number of times of sampling), the second axis represents the variable values, and the third axis represents the molding cycle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 27, 2008
    Publication date: August 7, 2008
    Applicant: FANUC LTD
    Inventors: Osamu SAITO, Kenji ARAKI
  • Publication number: 20080184827
    Abstract: Certain disclosed embodiments provide sensing devices of the type useable to obtain measurements from a plurality of positions of a substrate, such as in a well, body of water, soil, snow pack, or ice pack. In a particular implementation, the sensing device includes a housing having a length. A plurality of digital sensors are disposed at a plurality of positions along the length of the housing. A communication bus is in communication with each of the plurality of sensors. A data collection or transmission device is in communication with the communication bus. Further implementations provide sensing devices having a housing formed from a plurality of modular sections. Sensors are disposed in at least one of the modular sections. Also disclosed are networks formed from a plurality of the disclosed devices.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 2, 2007
    Publication date: August 7, 2008
    Inventors: Richard Susfalk, James Brock
  • Publication number: 20080184828
    Abstract: A linear actuator with a redundant structure comprises a motor, a gear box, a housing, a driving element and a follower element. An axis of the motor is protruded out of the linear actuator. When the linear actuator is stopped operation because of lacking power source, the linear actuator can be driven by rotating the axis, so as to solve the problem of unable to drive the linear actuator when lacking of electrical power.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 7, 2007
    Publication date: August 7, 2008
    Inventors: Pei-Yu CHEN, Bing-Hong Yang
  • Publication number: 20080184829
    Abstract: A vibrator counterweight assembly for use in an electronic device includes an electric motor (201) and shaft (203) for providing rotational movement adjacent to a substrate (209). An eccentric counterweight (205) is connected to the electric motor (201) through the shaft (203). A bend reduction stop (207) is attached to the eccentric counterweight (205) and works to prevent damage to the shaft (203) during a high stress loading condition on the electronic device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 1, 2007
    Publication date: August 7, 2008
    Applicant: MOTOROLA, INC.
    Inventors: Peter B. Gilmore, David E. Reiff, Jignesh G. Sharda
  • Publication number: 20080184830
    Abstract: A steering apparatus includes a housing defining a chamber and an aperture extending into the chamber. A rack is disposed within the chamber and moveable along a longitudinal axis. A pinion extends into the chamber for meshing engagement with the rack. A bearing supports the rack within the chamber relative to the housing. The bearing includes a wall having a continuously varying radial thickness. An adjustment mechanism includes a shaft partially disposed within the aperture in threaded engagement with the aperture and engaging the bearing for rotating the bearing about the longitudinal axis, thereby repositioning the rack relative to the pinion. A plug is disposed within the aperture. A spring is disposed within the aperture between the plug and the shaft to bias against the shaft, thereby urging rotational threaded movement of the shaft to produce linear movement of the shaft into engagement with the bearing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 14, 2008
    Publication date: August 7, 2008
    Applicant: DELPHI TECHNOLOGIES, INC.
    Inventor: George E. Arlt
  • Publication number: 20080184831
    Abstract: A device and method for preloading a transmission shaft assembly is disclosed. The transmission having the device of the present invention generally has a plurality of gears for providing a plurality of speed ratios. The shaft assembly has a first shaft, a first sleeve shaft, a second sleeve shaft and a first fastener. The first shaft has a flange end and an adjustment end. The first sleeve shaft is concentric with the first shaft and has a first end. The first end of the first sleeve shaft is in communication with the flange end of the first shaft. The second sleeve shaft is concentric with the first shaft and is axially aligned with the first sleeve shaft. The second sleeve shaft has a first end. The plurality of synchronizers for selectively connecting at least one of the plurality of gears to at least one of the first and second sleeve shafts. The first fastener is engagable with the adjustment end of the first shaft and is configured to move axially on the adjustment end.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 11, 2008
    Publication date: August 7, 2008
    Applicant: GM GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS, INC.
    Inventors: BORIS I. BURGMAN, John A. Diemer, Henryk Sowul, David B. Mischler
  • Publication number: 20080184832
    Abstract: The present invention relates to an electrical motor reducer for operating an eccentric cam which adopts an epicyclic reducer housed inside the eccentric cam supporting pin, where is also provided a housing compartment for the electrical motor, whose pinion is perfectly coaxial with the axis of the epicyclic reducer and with the axis of said supporting pin.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 8, 2005
    Publication date: August 7, 2008
    Applicant: DAYCO EUROPE S.R.L. CON UNICO SOCIO
    Inventor: Luigi Persiani
  • Publication number: 20080184833
    Abstract: A method of manufacturing a steering rack for a vehicle rack and pinion steering system. The rack comprises gear teeth and a shank that has a constant outside diameter and constant wall thickness over the majority of its length. The method comprises performing a forging operation on a tubular member with an elongate member positioned in the bore of a thickened region of the tubular member. The forging operation forms the gear teeth on the thickened region, and the elongate member is retained within the tubular member. The tubular member is made by performing a forming operation on a length of tube stock such that the outside diameter of the thickened region is smaller than the outside diameter of the shank, and the wall thickness of the thickened region is larger than the wall thickness of the shank.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 21, 2006
    Publication date: August 7, 2008
    Inventor: Juergen Dohmann
  • Publication number: 20080184834
    Abstract: A machine tool gear mechanism (1) such as a spindle gear mechanism, transmits torque from an output shaft (3) of the gear mechanism directly to a spindle (6). The mechanism includes a rotary passage (14) as a device for delivering coolants, emulsions, oils or air between the output shaft (3) or the motor and the spindle (6). The rotary passage (14) is integrated in the spindle (6).
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 16, 2006
    Publication date: August 7, 2008
    Applicant: ZF Friedrichshafen AG
    Inventor: Harald Eckert
  • Publication number: 20080184835
    Abstract: A general purpose linkage apparatus is adaptable for moving or guiding objects along a linear or curvilinear path. The apparatus includes linkages with revolving joints. In self-powered adaptations, a rotating motor may extend and retract the apparatus.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 10, 2007
    Publication date: August 7, 2008
    Inventor: Thomas Scott Breidenbach
  • Publication number: 20080184836
    Abstract: The haptic interface comprises a base (2), a platform (24) at a distance from the base (2), at least two cables (32) each with a first end fixed to the platform and a second end connected to a puller actuator (36) designed to apply tension on the cable (32). Thrust means are mounted on the base (2) by means of an articulation (50). They comprise a thrust rod (40) with a first end in contact with the platform (24) and a second end connected to a pusher actuator that pushes the thrust rod (40) towards the platform (24). The actuators (36, 44) apply forces to the platform representative of information about a system. The platform comprises a control device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 30, 2005
    Publication date: August 7, 2008
    Inventor: Alain Riwan
  • Publication number: 20080184837
    Abstract: A shift lever apparatus for an automatic transmission includes: a lever main body including a rod insertion hole provided thereto and a receiving member insertion hole, and swingably supported by a shifter main body; a compression rod inserted in the rod insertion hole from a lower end of the lever main body; a spring, inserted into the rod insertion hole from the lower end of the lever main body, for pressing the compression rod toward an upper end of the lever main body; and a spring receiving member inserted into the receiving member insertion hole, and including a concave portion for holding a lower end of the spring.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 13, 2007
    Publication date: August 7, 2008
    Applicant: FUJI KIKO Co., LtD.
    Inventor: Yoshihiro Takikawa
  • Publication number: 20080184838
    Abstract: In a steering device (200), a first motor (34a) operates in accordance with a steering operation of a steering handle (12), a first steering shaft (52) steers one of the pair of wheels (58), and a first conversion unit converts a rotation of a first rotor (31a) as a rotation element of the first motor (31a) into an axial-direction movement of the first steering shaft (52). A second motor (34b) operates in accordance with the steering operation of the steering handle (12), a second steering shaft (53) is separated from the first steering shaft (52) and steers the other of the pair of wheels (58), and a second conversion unit converts a rotation of a second rotor (31b) as a rotation element of the second motor (34b) into an axial-direction movement of the second steering shaft (53). A coupling unit (60) couples the first rotor (31a) and the second rotor (31b) together and cancels the coupling of the first rotor (31a) and the second rotor (31b).
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 7, 2006
    Publication date: August 7, 2008
    Applicant: TOYOTA JIDOSHA KABUSHIKI KAISHA
    Inventors: Kenji Hayashi, Masatoshi Nakatsu
  • Publication number: 20080184839
    Abstract: A throttle control for a motorcycle comprises an electromagnet mounted adjacent to a throttle tube on a handle bar of the motorcycle. The throttle tube includes a radial flange on one end that is configured to define at least one slot. An armature plate is positioned between the electromagnet and the radial flange and is configured to define at least one tab that registers with the slot in the radial flange of the throttle tube. The armature plate is moveable between a first position in contact with the electromagnet and a second position spaced from the electromagnet while the tab remains within the slot. When the electromagnet is energized, the armature plate frictionally contacts the electromagnet and fixes the radial position of the throttle tube.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 29, 2007
    Publication date: August 7, 2008
    Inventors: Mario Negri, Todd Sigfrid
  • Publication number: 20080184840
    Abstract: A vehicle (for example an unmanned robot vehicle) which includes a main body provided with a main locomotion mechanism for traveling over a terrain. The device is provided with at least one arm for enhanced support and maneuverability, the arm pivotally attached to the main body. The arm is controllable and capable of being rotated to a position where the arm or at least a substantial portion of the arm is placed in contact with the terrain or obstacle, so as to provide support or leverage to the main body.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 19, 2007
    Publication date: August 7, 2008
    Inventors: Avishay Novoplanski, Stefan Hodis
  • Publication number: 20080184841
    Abstract: An operating device is provided for a vehicle, in particular for an agricultural or industrial utility vehicle. The operating device comprises a manually actuatable control lever. The control lever is used to adjust or modify the speed of the vehicle. The control lever is adjustable in a longitudinal direction, in order to adjust the speed of the vehicle. An implement with which at least one working function may be performed may be fitted to the vehicle. In order to enable ergonomic operation, it is proposed that the control lever comprise at least one operating element, with which the implement may be driven, and that the operating element be arranged so as to be movable together with the control lever in the longitudinal direction.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 28, 2008
    Publication date: August 7, 2008
    Inventors: Alain Blind, Gerd Schorry
  • Publication number: 20080184842
    Abstract: This invention relates to an improved hand brake structure, in which a plurality of through holes are provided on the brake handlebar, a brake wire being provided within the brake handlebar, the end of the brake wire having several joints which are inserted and engaged in the through holes on the brake handlebar, only the joint located at the end of the brake wire abutting against one end of the through hole in proximity to the brake wire, while the rest of the joints abut against the other end of the through hole apart from the brake wire. In this manner, the joint located at the end of the brake wire begin to wear firstly in case of damage, and the joint nearest to the end of the brake wire fills the vacancy post in due order. Therefore, there is no need to replace a new brake wire in case of damage, and the safety of user can be ensured.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 31, 2007
    Publication date: August 7, 2008
    Inventor: Ya-Huei Sie
  • Publication number: 20080184843
    Abstract: The invention relates to an accelerator pedal module for controlling a drive motor power such as an internal combustion engine for a motor vehicle comprising a pedal lever pivotally maintained about an axis of rotation on a bearing bloc k The pivoting movement of the pedal lever with respect to the bearing block changes the direction of at least one magnetic field which change is converted into an electric signal by at least one sensor element and represents the pivoting angle of the pedal lever with respect to the bearing block. The magnetic field is generated by at least two bipolar magnets between which said sensor element is placed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 17, 2006
    Publication date: August 7, 2008
    Inventors: Thomas Klotzbuecher, Bernhard Bauer, Sebastien Weiss, Bernd Koeberle
  • Publication number: 20080184844
    Abstract: A transmission for a vehicle in which changing a shift position is achieved by sliding a shifter. In sliding the shifter to change the established condition of gear trains respectively corresponding to a plurality of shift positions, the transmission of power from an engine to a main shaft is cut off. A feed mechanism for sliding the shifter is configured to reduce the sliding speed of the shifter or to once stop the sliding operation of the shifter in a neutral condition during the sliding operation of the shifter in changing the established condition of the gear trains. The resulting configuration reduces the engagement noise when changing the shift position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 26, 2007
    Publication date: August 7, 2008
    Inventors: Kinya Mizuno, Kazuhiko Sakaguchi, Eiji Kittaka, Seiji Hamaoka
  • Publication number: 20080184845
    Abstract: A starter apparatus is disclosed. The starter apparatus includes a housing, a motor disposed within the housing, the motor having an armature shaft, and a planetary gear train disposed within the housing and in operable communication with the armature shaft. The planetary gear train includes a ring gear, a carrier shaft in operable communication with the planetary gear train for outputting a torque of the armature shaft transferred through the planetary gear train, and a dampener in exclusive connection between the ring gear and the housing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 1, 2007
    Publication date: August 7, 2008
    Inventors: Peter K. Farrar, Joel M. Gray, Wojciech M. Golab
  • Publication number: 20080184846
    Abstract: The disclosed multiple-ratio power transmission mechanism for a vehicle includes main transmission gearing and countershaft gearing that establish selectively plural power flow paths from an engine to vehicle traction wheels. Ratio change clutches are engageable selectively to establish power flow paths and pre-selected power flow during a ratio shift sequence throughout an extended overall ratio spread without a requirement for additional gearing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 5, 2007
    Publication date: August 7, 2008
    Applicant: Eaton Corporation
    Inventor: Graeme A. Jackson
  • Publication number: 20080184847
    Abstract: A method for processing ore using carbonates so as to minimize the production of acidic wastes. The method includes adding the carbonates to the ore and after the carbonates have been added to the ore, substantially jointly grinding the ore and the carbonates to produce a treated ore mixture. Substantially jointly grinding the ore and the carbonates substantially mixes and homogenizes the ore and the carbonates so that acids subsequently created within the treated ore mixture are substantially neutralized within the treated ore mixture by the carbonates.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 17, 2006
    Publication date: August 7, 2008
    Inventors: Gilles Fiset, Edmond St-Jean
  • Publication number: 20080184848
    Abstract: Systems and corresponding methods are described herein that provide an effective inert blanket over a metal surface (hot solid (charge) metal or molten metal) in a container such as an induction furnace. The system includes a container of metal and a system configured to delivery biphasic inert cryogen toward the metal. The delivery system may include a lance disposed at the top of the container. The lance has a hood that directs both a flow of liquid cryogen and a flow of vaporous gas toward the metal surface. The liquid cryogen contacts the metal surface, generating a volume of expanding gas over the metal surface. The vaporous cryogen creates a reinforcing vapor that slows the expansion rate of the expanding gas, localizing the expanding gas over the metal surface.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 27, 2007
    Publication date: August 7, 2008
    Inventor: Terence D. La Sorda
  • Publication number: 20080184849
    Abstract: A method for extraction a metal from a mineral ore including a refractory ore contained in a metal. The method includes concentration of refractory ore followed by micronization of the concentrate until gold is liberated by the extraction solution and mixing of micronized concentrate with concentration rejects or by-products to facilitate recovery of the treatment solution.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 17, 2006
    Publication date: August 7, 2008
    Inventors: Gilles Fiset, Edmond St-Jean
  • Publication number: 20080184850
    Abstract: A device containing fragments of a failed high torque device such as hydraulic torque device, geared air driven torque machine or impact wrench. The device is a sleeve formed of a woven or web-like material that is positioned around at least a driving or socket end of the high torque device. The sleeve absorbs the impact of fragments upon failure of the high torque device, preventing the fragments from becoming airborne. The sleeve may be assembled with the high torque device during construction of the high torque device, or may be added to the high torque device at a later time. The sleeve may be retro-fit onto the high torque device. The sleeve may be pre-molded, shrink-fit, hot-dipped, slid, rolled or woven onto the high torque device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 7, 2007
    Publication date: August 7, 2008
    Applicant: INGERSOLL-RAND COMPANY
    Inventors: Patrick S. Livingston, David R. Hicks