Patents Issued in October 2, 2008
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Publication number: 20080236241Abstract: In a travel angle detection system for a mobile object having a detector installed in the mobile object to produce angular velocity outputs successively, the detector outputs are read and one output is determined as a provisional calibration value indicative of zero-point. Integrated values of differences between the calibration value and successive outputs and output variation width are calculated. When they are within predetermined permissible ranges, the mobile object is determined to be in static condition and the calibration value is corrected by an average value of the integrated values. The travel angle of the mobile object is detected from the calibrated outputs of the detector, thereby achieving accurate calibration of detector output by enabling accurate determination of the static condition.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 19, 2007Publication date: October 2, 2008Inventor: Mitsuyasu Ino
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Publication number: 20080236242Abstract: The method and apparatus in one embodiment may have: a sensing element for an accelerometer having a bias, the sensing element having a rectangular plate supported by flexures which allow rotation about a transverse center line thereof; a center of mass (CG) of the sensing element having two stable positions, one on each side of an axis of rotation defined by a centerline of suspension; a secondary mass within a proofmass translates in-plane to move the center of mass to thereby effect a self-calibration mechanization that continuously measures and nulls the accelerometer's bias under dynamic operating conditions.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 28, 2007Publication date: October 2, 2008Inventor: Robert E. Stewart
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Publication number: 20080236243Abstract: A device comprising a pressure monitor and a control means that receives a signal representing measured pressure at the pressure monitor and controls the controllable elements of a fluid system is utilized to monitor a fluid system for error conditions, to optimize operations and to diagnose the fluid system. By following a testing protocol that selectively enables parts of the system, the control means narrows the list of possible failing components. Comparing the measured pressure against normal pressures allows the device to identify error conditions. Determining the volume of fluid being transported and controlling the duration of the flow optimizes operation of the fluid system.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 2, 2005Publication date: October 2, 2008Applicant: Waters Investments LimitedInventors: Theodore D. Ciolkosz, James E. Usowicz, Peyton C. Beals, Russell Keene
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Publication number: 20080236244Abstract: Methods for inspecting gas turbine component parts for possible distress after hydrogen fluoride cleaning are disclosed. The methods selectively remove a small amount of material for IGA inspection and restore the material using the same procedures as when the parts were manufactured.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 2, 2007Publication date: October 2, 2008Inventors: Timothy A. Milleville, Beth K. Abriles, Edward R. Szela
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Publication number: 20080236245Abstract: A method of inspecting a cargo container for chemical or biological materials, comprising: providing a vapor collection unit in the container, allowing vapors to be collected from the container into the collection unit, removing vapors collected in the vapor collection unit from the container through a port of the container, not primarily used for loading or removing cargo from the container, and analyzing the vapors collected by the vapor collection unit for traces of one or more particulates.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 6, 2007Publication date: October 2, 2008Applicant: TraceGuard Technologies Ltd.Inventors: Robert Landon Roach, Gil Perlberg, Roy Ornath
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Publication number: 20080236246Abstract: An apparatus and method for packaging and operating a gas sensor for use in high temperature gas environments. A gas sensor can be configured, which includes a sensor element and a housing in which the sensor element is located. A parallel gas path can be configured form said housing, wherein said parallel gas path is based on the natural differential pressure with respect to the velocity of said gas. The parallel gas path is preferably vertical to provide a sufficient friction to soot particles compared to the gas, such that when a partial quantity of said gas reaches said sensor element, said soot particles are avoided by said sensor element.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 27, 2007Publication date: October 2, 2008Inventors: Palani Thanigachalam, Saju Ramachandran, Ramsesh Anilkumar
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Publication number: 20080236247Abstract: The object of the present invention provides an evaluation system for evaluating accurately emission amount of environmental influence substance of fuel in a fuel supply facility for supplying stored fuel to a consumer. An evaluation system evaluates the emission amount of environmental influence substance of fuel in which the environmental properties (greenhouse gas emissions) accumulated in the process of drilling a first energy, transporting and storing, producing fuel, and supplying the fuel are taken into account. The evaluation system enables to present the environmental properties of the sold fuel to the fuel consumer and allows the fuel consumer to select, thereby promoting the reduction of emission amount of the greenhouse gas of the fuel supplier and the fuel consumer.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 20, 2008Publication date: October 2, 2008Inventors: Masafumi Nojima, Akiyoshi Komura, Takeyuki Itabashi, Sunao Funakoshi, Hiroshi Arita, Yukinobu Maruyama, Youichi Horii, Takao Ishikawa
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Publication number: 20080236248Abstract: A protective cover of a gas sensor includes an inner protective cover which covers at least an end portion of a sensor element, an outer protective cover which covers the inner protective cover, and an intermediate protective cover which is installed between the inner protective cover and the outer protective cover. A1/A2?1 provided that A1 represents a total opening area of the inner gas inlet holes provided for the inner protective cover, and A2 represents a total opening area of the outer gas inlet holes provided for the outer protective cover.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 14, 2008Publication date: October 2, 2008Applicant: NGK Insulators, Ltd.Inventors: Nobukazu Ikoma, Takeya Miyashita, Akihiro Muroguchi
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Publication number: 20080236249Abstract: The breath, body fluids or skin secretions of persons contain numerous volatile substances at concentrations permitting their chemical analysis directly from surrounding ambient gas. Based on the different odor patterns revealed by such analyses for different individuals, a non-contact method is taught that permits the identification of persons and is relatively immune to evasion.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 9, 2008Publication date: October 2, 2008Inventor: Gonzalo Fernandez de la Mora
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Publication number: 20080236250Abstract: This invention relates to methods and apparatus of quantifying the portion of a gas in a specific nuclear symmetric state. Specifically, the invention is directed to the measurement of the speed of sound in an unknown sample and comparing it to astandard.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 13, 2008Publication date: October 2, 2008Inventors: Steve Kadlecek, Rahim Rizi
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Publication number: 20080236251Abstract: A microchip based sensor for detecting at least one analyte which includes at least one microelectrode for measuring the electrical resistance of the at least one analyte, and an array of electrospun composite fibers interfaced with at least one of the microelectrodes. The one or more analytes are identified from the resistance pattern of the one or more analytes. Other embodiments can be used to identify and/or quantify one or more of the analytes from the resistance pattern of those one or more analytes.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 28, 2007Publication date: October 2, 2008Inventors: Gary C. Tepper, Royal Kessick
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Publication number: 20080236252Abstract: A method of determining a testing volume for a micronaire measurement by containing a fiber sample within a micronaire chamber having a length and at least one movable end wall. A flow is initiated along the length of the micronaire chamber. The fiber sample is compressed within the micronaire chamber by advancing the movable end wall, and the advancement of the movable end wall is stopped when at least one property of the flow attains a set point. The position of the movable end wall defines the testing volume. In this manner, there is provided a convenient method of setting a testing volume and acquiring the information needed to take a micronaire measurement.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 28, 2007Publication date: October 2, 2008Applicant: USTER TECHNOLOGIES AGInventors: James T. Wender, Preston S. Baxter, Hossein M. Ghorashi
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Publication number: 20080236253Abstract: Methods and apparatus to measure flow of a drilling fluid composition include a test housing including a test matrix located between an inlet and an outlet, a test valve connected between the inlet of the test housing and a fluid reservoir, and a pressure assembly configured to apply pressure to drilling fluid contained in the fluid reservoir. The apparatus and methods further include a sample valve connected to the outlet of the test housing and a measurement device configured to measure a filtrate fluid flowing through the outlet. A method to measure flow of a drilling fluid includes measuring an amount of filtrate fluid flowing through the test matrix as a function of time.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 17, 2008Publication date: October 2, 2008Applicant: M-I LLCInventors: Mostafa Ahmadi Tehrani, Jacqueline Joan Cameron
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Publication number: 20080236254Abstract: A sensor for making rheological measurements takes the form of a ferromagnetic bob alternately driven through a sample fluid in opposite directions by magnetic force from two alternately driven coils. The bob's position affects the mutual inductance between the coils, so it can be inferred by sensing the signal that current flowing in one coil induces in the other, and rheological properties are determined from the relationships among the bob's motion, the coil current, and the sensor geometry. Some such measurements' accuracies are enhanced by computing bob acceleration and suppressing inertial effects thereby detected.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 27, 2007Publication date: October 2, 2008Inventors: Daniel A. Airey, Jonathan T. Cole
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Publication number: 20080236255Abstract: The invention relates to a piezo-rheometric measuring cell for shear or compression measurement, essentially comprising two sample holder plates, with the sample for analysis between the same in solid, liquid or intermediate form, piezoelectric ceramic elements on the faces of the plates opposite to the faces in contact with the sample and a construction forming the housing and compressing the arrangement of plates and ceramic elements, one or more ceramics called emitter, being connected to one of the two plates or the emitter plate and subjecting the same to shear or compression vibrations by means of an excitation signal and one or more ceramics, called receiver, being connected to the other plate or receiver plate and converting the forces to which the same is subject into a measured signal.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 21, 2005Publication date: October 2, 2008Applicants: UNIVERSITE LOUIS PASTEUR, CENTRE NATIONAL DE LA RECHERCHE SCIENTIFIQUEInventors: Philippe Martinoty, Dominique Collin
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Publication number: 20080236256Abstract: A system and method for sample preparation and/or sample enrichment are provided. The system comprises the following components: a first switch element with a switch element input and at least two mutually exclusive switch element outputs and a second corresponding switch element with at least two mutually exclusive switch element inputs and a switch element output, the first and second switch elements being connected to control means for opening and closing the switch element inputs and switch element outputs; a first distributor element with at least three ports and a second distributor element with at least three ports; as well as a first separation column and a second separation column, the components being in such fluidic communication with each other that by means of different positions of the switch elements it is possible to configure at least two different fluidic paths in the system, wherein said different positions are achievable through the control means.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 2, 2006Publication date: October 2, 2008Applicant: WATERS GMBHInventors: Uwe Brand, Falk-Thilo Ferse
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Publication number: 20080236257Abstract: Methods and devices for measuring chemical or biological properties of a liquid from a subsurface position are disclosed, wherein a closed casing is submerged in the liquid to be sampled. The flow of the liquid for the sampling is driven by a hydrostatic pressure and is thus independent of pumps or the like when placed at the correct subsurface position. The flow rate is in a first aspect of the present invention controlled by providing a constant hydrostatic pressure during the sampling period. Alternatively, the inlet is provided with a cartridge comprising a tracer material, which is partly soluble by the liquid and is released proportional to the flow rate.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 28, 2005Publication date: October 2, 2008Applicant: SORBISENSE APSInventor: Hubert de Jonge
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Publication number: 20080236258Abstract: Methods and apparatus are described for sampling and diluting concentrated emulsions, which may be oil-in-water emulsions, water-in-oil emulsions, or other concentrated emulsions. One method embodiment of the invention comprises obtaining a sample of a concentrated emulsion comprising a dispersed phase and a continuous phase fluid; measuring droplet concentration of the dispersed phase in the sample; and for droplet concentration of the sample greater than about 1000 ppm, diluting the sample with substantially pure continuous phase fluid, forming a first diluted emulsion. Methods of the invention include those wherein the obtaining of a sample comprises opening a fluid connection to a flowing stream comprising the concentrated emulsion, wherein the obtaining and diluting steps occur in real time. This abstract complies with rules requiring an abstract. It should not be used to limit the scope or meaning of the claims.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 27, 2007Publication date: October 2, 2008Applicant: SCHLUMBERGER TECHNOLOGY CORPORATIONInventor: Gary Martin Oddie
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Publication number: 20080236259Abstract: A scanning probe microscope provided with a cantilever 21 having a probe 20 facing a sample 12, a measurement unit 24 measuring a physical quantity occurring between the probe and sample, and movement mechanisms 11, 29 changing a positional relationship between the probe and sample to cause a scanning operation and making the probe scan the surface of the sample by the movement mechanism and measure the surface of the sample by the measurement unit.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 18, 2005Publication date: October 2, 2008Inventors: Tooru Kurenuma, Yukio Kenbou, Hiroaki Yanagimoto, Hiroshi Kuroda, Takafumi Morimoto
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Publication number: 20080236260Abstract: An apparatus for measuring surface texture causes a probe to trace a surface of a workpiece to detect contact between a tip provided on the tip of the probe and the surface of the workpiece and measures surface texture of the workpiece. The apparatus for measuring surface texture includes: a path division unit dividing a path along which the tip is moved into a plurality of sections between the starting point and the ending point of the path; a moving velocity calculation unit calculating a moving velocity of the tip in sequence from the starting point to the ending point for each of the plurality of sections, based on the path information for each of the plurality of sections; and a stylus movement control unit moving the tip in a section for which a moving velocity has been calculated at the moving velocity calculation unit.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 26, 2008Publication date: October 2, 2008Applicant: MITUTOYO CORPORATIONInventors: Takashi Noda, Hiromi Deguchi, Naoya Kikuchi
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Publication number: 20080236261Abstract: The invention provides a power turbine test apparatus able to significantly reduce the equipment cost and testing cost required for an independent operation test of a test object power turbine. The power turbine test apparatus for independently operating and testing a power turbine that drives a driven machinery using combustion gas or steam, comprises: an air compressor that supplies compressed outside air to a combustor positioned on a downstream side; a first air duct that guides the outside air compressed by the air compressor into the combustor; a combustor which combusts the compressed outside air and fuel to generate combustion gas; and a second air duct that guides the combustion gas generated by the combustor to the power turbine installed on the downstream side; wherein a rotating shaft of the power turbine and a rotating shaft of the air compressor are joined to each other, and power of the power turbine is recovered by the air compressor.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 27, 2007Publication date: October 2, 2008Applicant: MITSUBISHI HEAVY INDUSTRIES, LTD.Inventors: Yoshihisa Ono, Keiichi Shiraishi
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Publication number: 20080236262Abstract: Detection of cylinder misfires in engines. In one aspect of the invention, a method for detecting a cylinder misfire in an engine includes monitoring a temperature in the exhaust of the engine. Vibration of the engine is analyzed to identify a misfiring cylinder in the engine if the monitored temperature indicates a misfire may have occurred.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 28, 2007Publication date: October 2, 2008Applicant: CUMMINS, INC.Inventor: Eric B. Andrews
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Publication number: 20080236263Abstract: A method and a device for analyzing a sensor element are described, which allow a temperature dependence of the sensor element to be considered without an additional temperature sensor in particular. The sensor element outputs a signal as a function of a measured variable. The signal of the sensor element is analyzed in a first analysis operating mode to detect the measured variable. The signal of the sensor element is analyzed in a second analysis operating mode to detect a characteristic variable of the sensor element which is different from the measured variable.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 28, 2008Publication date: October 2, 2008Inventor: Uwe Kassner
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Publication number: 20080236264Abstract: A device and a method for determining the trouble of a cylinder pressure sensor. The device accurately detecting the trouble of the cylinder sensor without increasing cost calculates the cylinder pressure of an internal combustion engine based on an output from the cylinder sensor installed in the internal combustion engine and calculates a drift parameter indicating the drift amount of the cylinder pressure based on the cylinder pressure. When the drift parameter is not within a specified range, the device determines that the cylinder pressure sensor is defective. According to one embodiment, the specified range can be set based on the behavior of the cylinder pressure. According to the other embodiment, a correction factor is obtained according to the operating state of the internal combustion engine, and the drift parameter is corrected with the correction factor.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 18, 2005Publication date: October 2, 2008Applicant: Honda Motor Co., LTD.Inventors: Masahiro Sato, Katsura Okubo, Koichiro Shinozaki, Yuji Yasui, Keiichi Nagashima
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Publication number: 20080236265Abstract: Method for determining the reversal of the direction of engine rotation for internal combustion engines having a crankshaft fitted with a target wheel having teeth, one of which is a long tooth, with a unidirectional crankshaft position sensor delivering a signal used for counting teeth and with an engine management device including a processor and a model of the engine behaviour in a stalling phase, including: recording the signal and measuring each time difference between two successive edges of the signal, calculating, on the basis of the model, the time variation of the engine position from the time differences between the edges of the signal, and estimating the stopped position of the engine, wherein the model is a second-order polynomial function of time, and the position of reversal of the direction of rotation is estimated from the calculation of the peak position of this second-order polynomial function.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 6, 2006Publication date: October 2, 2008Applicant: CONTINENTAL AUTOMOTIVE FRANCEInventors: Vincent Dian, Valerie Gouzenne, Pierre Zouboff
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Publication number: 20080236266Abstract: A method for diagnosing a turbocharger (10) includes disconnecting the compressor outlet conduit (26) so that the engine (12) is naturally aspirated and using the engine to drive the turbine (14) of the turbocharger. The compressor outlet conduit (26) has a restriction (28) to create a backpressure which is measured along with the inlet pressure, barometric pressure and ambient temperature. The flow rate is determined and compared to acceptable parameters from a map data provided by a turbocharger manufacturer to diagnose if the turbocharger is operating within the acceptable parameters.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 2, 2007Publication date: October 2, 2008Inventor: Jason Thomas Barton
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Publication number: 20080236267Abstract: A method and a device for monitoring the intake manifold pressure of an internal combustion engine in which a measured signal for the intake manifold pressure is compared with a reference signal for the intake manifold pressure. For a deviation of the measured signal for the intake manifold pressure from the reference signal for the intake manifold pressure, a tolerance range is predefined for error-free operation of the intake and/or exhaust valves of at least one cylinder of the internal combustion engine. A check is made whether the measured signal for the intake manifold pressure deviates from the reference signal for the intake manifold pressure by more than a predefined tolerance range. In this case an erroneous operation of the intake and/or exhaust valves is detected; otherwise an error-free operation of the intake and/or exhaust valves is detected.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 19, 2008Publication date: October 2, 2008Inventors: Dirk Hartmann, Georg Mallebrein, Werner Mezger, Henri Barbier, Soenke Mannal
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Publication number: 20080236268Abstract: Apparatus for determining a predicted vehicle braking operation is provided. The apparatus includes a test tire, a brake associated with the test tire, and an actuator operably connected to the test tire and configured to selectively apply a representative vehicle force to the test tire. The apparatus further includes a controller operably connected to the brake and configured to apply a representative vehicle braking algorithm to the brake. The apparatus also includes a sensor associated with the test tire and configured to provide feedback for determining a predicted vehicle braking operation. Aspects of the invention further include methods of using the apparatus.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 2, 2007Publication date: October 2, 2008Applicant: 3RD MILLENNIUM SOLUTIONS, LTD.Inventors: Stephen Lyle McKeown, Daniel Andrew Faux, Paul Edward Cudmore
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Publication number: 20080236269Abstract: A method for providing an estimate of brake pad thickness. The method employs fusion of sensors, if used, and driver brake modeling to predict the vehicle brake pad life. An algorithm is employed that uses various inputs, such as brake pad friction material properties, brake pad cooling rate, brake temperature, vehicle mass, road grade, weight distribution, brake pressure, brake energy, braking power, etc. to provide the estimation. The method calculates brake work using total work minus losses, such as aerodynamic drag resistance, engine braking and/or braking power as braking torque times velocity divided by rolling resistance to determine the brake rotor and lining temperature. The method then uses the brake temperature to determine the brake pad wear, where the wear is accumulated for each braking event. A brake pad sensor can be included to provide one or more indications of brake pad thickness from which the estimation can be revised.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 25, 2008Publication date: October 2, 2008Applicant: GM GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS, INC.Inventors: Mark N. Howell, John P. Whaite, Phanu Amatyakul, Yuen-Kwok Chin, Mutasim A. Salman, Chih-Hung Yen, Mark T. Riefe
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Publication number: 20080236270Abstract: A method for determining structure in the Earth's subsurface includes generating an initial model of the structure. The initial model includes at least one layer boundary. A wellbore is drilled along a selected trajectory through the Earth's subsurface in a volume represented by the initial model. At least one formation parameter is measured azimuthally along the wellbore. A distance is determined from the wellbore at selected positions therealong to the at least one layer boundary using the azimuthal formation parameter measurements. The initial model is adjusted using the determined distances. In one example, the parameter is resistivity. In one example, the parameter is acoustic velocity.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 27, 2007Publication date: October 2, 2008Applicant: SCHLUMBERGER TECHNOLOGY CORPORATIONInventors: JEAN-MICHEL DENICHOU, SOAZIG LEVEQUE
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Publication number: 20080236271Abstract: A downhole seal (50) includes an elastomeric element (98) operably to provide a seal between two downhole components. A strain sensor (102) is embedded in the elastomeric element (98). The strain sensor (102) has a mechanical flexibility that is substantially matched to the mechanical flexibility of the elastomeric element (98). The strain sensor (102) is operably connected to circuitry that is operable to identify changes in a property of the strain sensor (98) indicative of the strain being experienced by the strain sensor (98), which is representative of the strain experienced by the elastomeric element (98).Type: ApplicationFiled: March 29, 2007Publication date: October 2, 2008Inventors: Haoyue Zhang, Michael L. Fripp, Douglas H. Beck
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Publication number: 20080236272Abstract: A position measuring system, especially for hydraulic valve, having a pressure tube to accommodate an armature is provided, whereby the pressure tube is manufactured by deep-drawing. As a result, a cost-effective manufacturing process can be employed for the pressure tube. The pressure tube can be firmly attached to a valve housing by means of a holding element and, optionally, an attachment flange.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 21, 2008Publication date: October 2, 2008Applicant: Robert Bosch GmbHInventors: Peter Thierbach, Werner Steprath
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Publication number: 20080236273Abstract: A mass airflow sensor is disclosed that includes a heating element comprising an upstream side and a downstream side. Two resistive temperature sensors are placed on each side of the heating element and assuming mass air/liquid flows in a direction from left to right. The resistors are configured electrically in a Wheatstone bridge configuration. A regulated voltage is applied across the mass flow sensing, Wheatstone bridge. The regulated voltage is set high enough to produce self-heating effects on the sensing bridge. The central heating element will also be heated. As mass air/liquid flows across the temperature sensors and the heating element, the upstream (RU1 and RU2) resistors are cooled and the downstream (RD1 and RD2) resistors are heated. The resistance in the resistive temperature sensors changes with temperature creating a differential voltage signal proportional to the regulated voltage applied to the sensing Wheatstone bridge and rate of mass air/liquid flow.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 27, 2007Publication date: October 2, 2008Inventors: Anthony M. Dmytriw, Craig S. Becke
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Publication number: 20080236274Abstract: An airflow measuring device includes a sensing portion provided in a bypass passage, which perpendicularly deflects part of air from a main passage to therethrough bypass the part of air. The sensing portion includes a heating resistor energized and dissipate heat to airflow. The sensing portion is configured to measure airflow in the bypass passage based on the heat radiation. The sensing portion further includes a pair of support members erected in the bypass passage to support the heating resistor. The heating resistor of the sensing portion is inclined at a first inclination angle with respect to a direction, which is perpendicular to a flow direction of air in the bypass passage. The heating resistor is inclined toward downstream at an outer streamline of the airflow in the bypass passage.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 27, 2008Publication date: October 2, 2008Applicant: DENSO CORPORATIONInventors: Yasushi kohno, Takao Ban
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Publication number: 20080236275Abstract: Arrangement and method for monitoring a fluid storage tank which includes a housing defining an interior receivable of a removable fluid. An interior sensor system is arranged on the housing to obtain information about any fluid in the interior of the housing different than the location of the tank. A location determining system is arranged on the housing to monitor the location of the tank, and a communication system is coupled to the interior sensor system and the location determining system and which is arranged to transmit the information about the fluid in the interior of the housing and the location of the tank to one or more remote facilities. The communication system may be arranged on the housing itself, which is especially applicable when the housing is movable, for example, such as the housing of a Frac tank. The location and condition of the fluid in the tank can thus be known at all times.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 1, 2007Publication date: October 2, 2008Applicant: INTELLIGENT TECHNOLOGIES INTERNATIONAL, INC.Inventors: David S. Breed, Wendell C. Johnson, Wilbur E. DuVall
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Publication number: 20080236276Abstract: An apparatus for determining the density of insulation in a cavity of a structure that senses a force of the insulation against the sensor. The force is used to determine the density of the insulation, which, in turn, is used to determine the thermal resistance or R-value of the insulation. The apparatus may include a fixture for supporting the sensor and holding the sensor in the substantially fixed position. A method for determining the density of loose-fill, blown-in-place insulation in a wall cavity by the use of a sensor is that measures a force exerted on the sensor by the insulation. The measured force is used to determine the density of the insulation. The thermal resistance of the insulation is determined from the known cavity depth and insulation density.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 13, 2007Publication date: October 2, 2008Inventors: Robert J. O'Leary, Steven G. Schmitt, Jacob T. Chacko
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Publication number: 20080236277Abstract: A gravity gradiometer is disclosed which has a sensor in the form of bars (41 and 42) which are supported on a mounting (5) which has a first mount section (10) and a second mount section (20). A first flexure web (33) pivotally couples the first and second mount sections about a first axis. The second mount has a first part (25), a second part (26) and a third part (27). The parts (25 and 26) are connected by a second flexure web (37) and the parts (26 and 27) are connected by a third flexure web (35). The bars (41 and 42) are located in housings (45 and 47) and form a monolithic structure with the housings (45 and 47) respectively. The housings (45 and 47) are connected to opposite sides of the second mount section 20. The bars (41 and 42) are connected to their respective housings by flexure webs (59). Transducers (71) are located in proximity to the bars for detecting movement of the bars to in turn enable the gravitational gradient tensor to be measured.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 31, 2006Publication date: October 2, 2008Applicant: TECHNOLOGICAL RESOURCES PTY. LIMITEDInventors: Frank Joachim Van Kann, John Winterflood
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Publication number: 20080236278Abstract: The invention relates to a device comprising a sensor chip and a structure housing the sensor chip. The structure is covered by a mold compound and is fabricated from a ceramic or a glass material.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 2, 2007Publication date: October 2, 2008Applicant: Infineon Technologies AGInventors: Horst Theuss, Albert Auburger, Terje Skog, Jean Schmitt
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Publication number: 20080236279Abstract: An inertial sensor and a fabrication method of an inertial sensor are provided. An inertial sensor includes: an elastic support whose one end is supported by a support part disposed on a substrate; an oscillator which is supported by the other end of the elastic support as it is separated from the substrate; and a displacement detecting part which detects a displacement of the oscillator to output a signal, wherein the oscillator is formed with one or both of a groove and a through hole in a direction in parallel with a drive direction of the oscillator.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 12, 2007Publication date: October 2, 2008Applicant: SONY CORPORATIONInventor: Kazuhiro Matsuhisa
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Publication number: 20080236280Abstract: MEMS devices and methods for measuring Coriolis forces using force rebalancing and parametric gain amplification techniques are disclosed. A MEMS inertial sensor can include one or more proof masses, at least one sense electrode positioned adjacent to each proof mass, a number of torquer electrodes for electrostatically nulling quadrature and Coriolis-related proof mass motion, and a number of pump electrodes for producing a pumping force on the proof masses. Force rebalancing voltages can be applied to some torquer electrodes to electrostatically null quadrature and/or Coriolis-related proof mass motion along a sense axis of the device. A pumping voltage at approximately twice the motor drive frequency of the proof masses can be used to pump the proof masses along the sense axis.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 16, 2006Publication date: October 2, 2008Applicant: HONEYWELL INTERNATIONAL INC.Inventors: Burgess R. Johnson, Eugen I. Cabuz
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Publication number: 20080236281Abstract: An angular velocity sensor of a horizontally located type, in which influence of a translational acceleration applied thereto from a lateral direction is readily removed and a fixed portion thereof is easily fixed, is provided. It includes a fixed portion fixed to the top surface of a sensor element supporting portion of a casing, an upper detection arm portion and a lower detection arm portion respectively connected to the fixed portion on sides opposite to each other and extending along a plane parallel to the top surface of the sensor element supporting portion, and a pair of upper vibration arms connected to the fixed portion with the upper detection arm portion in between. The fixed portion includes one or more slits extending at least in a direction intersecting with the extending direction of the upper detection arm portion.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 26, 2008Publication date: October 2, 2008Applicant: TDK CORPORATIONInventors: Takao Noguchi, Kenichi Tochi, Ken Unno, Tatsuo Namikawa
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Publication number: 20080236282Abstract: A system and method detect freefall associated with an object that is spinning or tumbling as it falls. Two tri-axis accelerometers provide inputs to an algorithm that detects the freefall of a spinning object that would not otherwise be detected by a conventional freefall detection system, due to the centrifugal and centripetal forces being placed on the falling object as it spins. The system can be used to detect the freefall of portable devices with onboard memory or hard disk drives, allowing the devices to have time to park the read/write head and reduce the potential of losing data that can be damaged by impact. This freefall detection system may be applied to such portable devices as notebook computers, PDAs, MP3 players, digital cameras, mobile phones and even automobiles.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 28, 2007Publication date: October 2, 2008Inventors: Dong Yoon Kim, Scott A. Miller
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Publication number: 20080236283Abstract: An acceleration sensor includes: a piezoelectric vibration device; an oscillation circuit; and a detection circuit, wherein the piezoelectric vibration device includes a substrate, an insulation layer formed above the substrate, a vibration section forming layer formed above the insulation layer, a vibration section formed in a cantilever shape in a first opening section that penetrates the vibration section forming layer, a second opening section that penetrates the insulation layer and formed below the first opening section and the vibration section, and a piezoelectric element section formed on the vibration section, the oscillation circuit vibrates the piezoelectric vibration device at a resonance frequency, and the detection circuit detects a change in the frequency of vibration of the piezoelectric vibration device which is caused by an acceleration applied in a direction in which the vibration section extends, and outputs a signal corresponding to the acceleration based on the change in the frequency.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 27, 2008Publication date: October 2, 2008Applicant: SEIKO EPSON CORPORATIONInventors: Takamitsu HIGUCHI, Yasuhiro ONO
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Publication number: 20080236284Abstract: The invention relates to a vibration measurement system for frequency-selective oscillation measurement in particular of low frequencies as are relevant in the field of automation and drive technology. The invention proposes coupling a broadband transmitter structure, which is excited directly by the excitation signal to be determined, via an electrostatic or inductive force to a receiver structure. This force coupling results in amplitude modulation of a carrier signal exciting the receiver structure. The actual excitation signal can be extracted from the spectrum of the amplitude-modulated carrier signal, for example by suitably selecting the frequency of the carrier signal. In order to make an oscillation analysis possible which is as unsusceptible to interference possible, an interference signal brought about, for example, by connector excitations is largely eliminated in advance from the amplitude-modulated carrier signal.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 2, 2006Publication date: October 2, 2008Applicant: Siemens AktiengesellschaftInventors: Jens Makuth, Dirk Scheibner
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Publication number: 20080236285Abstract: A device and method to nondestructively measure bulk stress in a member by employing an acoustic source, preferably an ultrasonic source, a processor, and a uniquely configured acoustic sensor package. The sensor package is configured to transmit both a longitudinal wave signal and a shear wave signal into the member. The processor is configured to capture reflections of the two impressed signals along a principal stress axis of the member and calculate the roundtrip time of the two signals. Knowing the length of the member along a principal stress axis, from the roundtrip times of the two signals, two velocities are calculated. By employing an equation that calculates bulk stress as a function of these shear and longitudinal wave velocities, a measure of bulk stress is calculated via the processor. The device measures bulk stress of a member that offers limited access in its permanent installation, such as dam reinforcements.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 27, 2007Publication date: October 2, 2008Inventors: Michael K. McInerney, Sean W. Morefield, Vincent F. Hock, Victor H. Kelly, John M. Carlyle
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Publication number: 20080236286Abstract: A shoe apparatus for a tubular inspection, the shoe apparatus including a body, a circuit board attached to the body, a film on the backing body, the film made of piezoelectric material, a plurality of ultrasonic transducers on the film, and each ultrasonic transducer of the plurality of ultrasonic transducers connected to the circuit board.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 29, 2007Publication date: October 2, 2008Inventors: Clive Chemo Lam, Yanming Guo
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Publication number: 20080236287Abstract: A method for detecting a crack in a pipeline from an inside of the pipeline, wherein, with the aid of at least one ultrasonic transmitter in the pipeline, successively ultrasonic pulses are transmitted in a direction of an inner wall of the pipeline and wherein, with the aid of at least one ultrasonic receiver in the pipeline, reflections of the ultrasonic pulses on the pipeline are received. The ultrasonic transmitter and the ultrasonic receiver are mutually separated at a distance from each other, wherein the ultrasonic transmitter and the ultrasonic receiver are moved together along the inner wall in tangential direction of the pipeline and at a distance from the inner wall for scanning the pipeline. The pipeline is filled with a liquid such as water for obtaining an immersion between the ultrasonic transmitter, the ultrasonic receiver and the inner wall of the pipeline.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 1, 2005Publication date: October 2, 2008Applicant: RÖNTGEN TECHNISCHE DIENST B.V.Inventors: Robert Van Agthoven, Bernard Spree, Wouter De Waal
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Publication number: 20080236288Abstract: A method for inspecting a part is provided. The method includes immersing the part in a couplant medium, delivering ultrasonic wave energy to at least one subvolume of the part using an ultrasonic transducer immersed in the couplant medium and receiving ultrasonic wave energy from the part at a fundamental frequency and at least one harmonic frequency using an ultrasonic receiver immersed in the couplant medium. The method also includes generating a nonlinear image corresponding to at least one material property variation of the part using the received ultrasonic energy and using the nonlinear image of the part to determine whether one or more material property anomalies are present in the part.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 2, 2007Publication date: October 2, 2008Applicant: GENERAL ELECTRIC COMPANYInventors: Edward James Nieters, Michael Francis Xavier Gigliotti, Ramkumar Kashyap Oruganti, Sivaramanivas Ramaswamy, Balachandar Ramadurai, Vamshi Krishna Reddy Kommareddy, Ganesan Baskaran, Michael Everett Keller
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Publication number: 20080236289Abstract: The invention relates to a measurement cell system, in particular a pressure measurement cell system, comprising a measurement cell and a memory unit containing at least one stored measurement cell-based stored value. The measurement cell together with the memory unit are designed as a separately operable unit.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 24, 2008Publication date: October 2, 2008Inventor: Martin Mellert
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Publication number: 20080236290Abstract: A cap (16) is provided on a diaphragm (11), and a first end (14A) of a flexible board (14) is connected to the cap (16). A cover (22) is attached to the cap. The cover (22) directs a second end (14B) of the flexible board (14) in a direction away from the diaphragm (11) held by a joint (10) so that the flexible board (14) is supported while being curved. Since the flexible board (14) is not locally bent at an acute angle, a crack is not generated on a copper pattern (14E) provided on the flexible board (14).Type: ApplicationFiled: March 18, 2008Publication date: October 2, 2008Applicant: NAGANO KEIKI CO., LTD.Inventors: Yukinobu Iimori, Nobuaki Yamada, Shuji Tohyama, Takayuki Yokoyama