Patents Issued in October 29, 2009
  • Publication number: 20090266126
    Abstract: Systems and methods are employed for monitoring and controlling a can necking process in a multi-stage can necking machine. Sensors are employed that communicate with local controllers. A local controller is used at each stage of the multi-stage can necking machine. The local controllers are used to perform fast processing of information from the sensors located in the stage associated with the local controller. A main controller is then used to determine drop rates. Predefined threshold rates may be used to compare with calculated drop rates. A multi-stage can necking machine may be controlled in part based on drop rates crossing threshold rates.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 24, 2008
    Publication date: October 29, 2009
    Applicant: CROWN PACKAGING TECHNOLOGY, INC.
    Inventor: Benjamin Lee Saville
  • Publication number: 20090266127
    Abstract: A device is provided for marking fin material as it is formed on a fin forming machine. Specifically, an air actuated device is connected to the machine cycle count. Each complete cycle of the fin forming machine is counted, and when the correct numbers of cycles have been met, the air switch allows the air cylinder to actuate and drive the indenter into the fin material and then withdraw the indenter to complete the marking process. The fin marking process is done without interruption to the fin forming cycle, and without damage to the fin material.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 25, 2008
    Publication date: October 29, 2009
    Applicant: Robinson Fin Machines, Inc
    Inventors: Jack E. Carle, Nathaniel A. Lowe
  • Publication number: 20090266128
    Abstract: An apparatus for rotating a container body that utilizes frictional forces rather than the engagement of gears to rotate the container body is provided. Such an apparatus may include a stationary housing and a turret rotating on a shaft proximate to the housing. The turret may have a plurality of pockets and a roller assembly disposed within each pocket. Each roller assembly may have a body portion and a drive roller portion. Each body portion may have a contact portion for contacting a container body received in a respective pocket. Each drive roller may be in contact with the housing such that as the turret rotates, friction between the drive rollers and the housing causes each roller assembly to rotate.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 24, 2008
    Publication date: October 29, 2009
    Applicant: CROWN PACKAGING TECHNOLOGY, INC.
    Inventors: Richard Mercer, David William Smith
  • Publication number: 20090266129
    Abstract: A winder assembly is provided for rotating a component of a can necking machine to a desired angular position suitable for performing maintenance on the component. The winder assembly includes a shaft coupled to a motor of that drives the components of the can necking machine during operation. A handle can be removably connected to the shaft, such that rotation of the handle in a rotational direction correspondingly causes the shaft to rotate. The shaft causes the motor to rotate, which drives a gear train that rotates the components of the necking machine that are coupled to the gear train.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 24, 2008
    Publication date: October 29, 2009
    Inventors: Daniel Egerton, David William Smith
  • Publication number: 20090266130
    Abstract: A multi-stage can necking machine having distributed drives is provided. The multi-stage can necking machine may include a plural of operation stages, wherein at least some of the operation stages may be configured for can necking operations. Each operation stage may include a main turret shaft, a transfer starwheel shaft, and a support for mounting the main turret shaft and transfer starwheel shaft. Each main turret shaft and transfer starwheel shaft may have a gear, and the gears of the operation stages may be in meshed communication to form a continuous gear train. A plural of motors may be distributed among the operation stages and mechanically coupled to the gear train, wherein each one of the motors may be capable of transmitting power to the gear train.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 24, 2008
    Publication date: October 29, 2009
    Applicant: CROWN PACKAGING TECHNOLOGY, INC.
    Inventor: Benjamin Lee Saville
  • Publication number: 20090266131
    Abstract: A horizontal can necking machine assembly includes a plural of main turrets and a plural of transfer starwheels. Each main turret includes a main turret shaft, a main gear mounted on the main turret shaft, a pusher assembly, and a die capable of necking a can body upon actuation of the turret shaft. Each transfer starwheel includes a transfer shaft and a transfer gear mounted on the transfer shaft. The main gears are engaged with the transfer gears such that lines through the main gear center and the centers of opposing transfer gears form an included angle of less than 170 degrees, thereby increasing the angular range available for necking the can body. The main turrets and transfer starwheels may operate to neck and move at least 2800 cans per minute, and each pusher assembly may have a stroke length relative to the die that is at least 1.5 inches.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 24, 2008
    Publication date: October 29, 2009
    Applicant: CROWN PACKAGING TECHNOLOGY, INC.
    Inventor: Paul Robert Dunwoody
  • Publication number: 20090266132
    Abstract: A plurality of rollers for producing longitudinal grooves in an elongated metal substrate, the plurality of rollers comprising a first set and a second set of rollers, the plurality of rollers having groove-forming fluted edges thereon. The plurality of rollers are aligned circumferentially around and parallel to a longitudinal axis of the elongated metal substrate, wherein the plurality of rollers are configured to produce an odd number of grooves distributed asymmetrically about a circumference of the elongated metal substrate.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 3, 2009
    Publication date: October 29, 2009
    Applicant: ILLINOIS TOOL WORKS INC.
    Inventors: Daniel P. McDonald, Richard A.C. Shepard
  • Publication number: 20090266133
    Abstract: The stem slide device of the present invention in an extruder has a stem vertical movement support (71) and slide guide members (72-1, 2) fastened to the support and forming guide grooves. A stem (6) pushing against a billet loaded in a container is held at the slide table (73) horizontally. The slide table slides in the vertical direction along the vertical face of the support. When the slide table is positioned at the bottom end of the guide groove, the hydraulic cylinders (77-1, 2) are driven so that the rods (78-1, 2) push the back surface of the slide table against the vertical face of the support. Therefore, the axis of the stem is held matched with the axis of the container.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 8, 2006
    Publication date: October 29, 2009
    Applicant: Ube Machinery Corporation, Ltd
    Inventors: Koji Nakano, Takeharu Yamamoto
  • Publication number: 20090266134
    Abstract: A stamping die (20) includes a base set (21), a punch (241, 242, 243, 244, 245) detachably assembled on the base set, and a stripper plate (23) disposed on top of the base set. The stripper plate defines a through hole (231) through which the punch passes, and at least one elastic member (28) is disposed between the base set and the stripper plate. The stamping die can punch different shaped holes by means of changing the punch.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 25, 2008
    Publication date: October 29, 2009
    Applicants: HONG FU JIN PRECISION INDUSTRY (ShenZhen)CO., LTD., HON HAI PRECISON INDUSTRY CO., LTD.
    Inventors: KUO-JUNG HUANG, SHU-WEI ZHOU, FU-SHUN HUANG, JIAN LUO, YI-HUA LIU
  • Publication number: 20090266135
    Abstract: A method of producing a flat sheet metal blank which varies in thickness. The sheet metal blank is produced for manufacturing components for motor vehicles. The method comprises the steps of providing a flat sheet metal blank having a variable thickness and prefabricated as a starting workpiece, and reworking the prefabricated flat sheet metal blank such that the variable thickness of the prefabricated flat sheet metal blank is locally changed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 22, 2009
    Publication date: October 29, 2009
    Applicant: BENTELER AUTOMOBILTECHNIK GMBH
    Inventor: Hans-Jurgen KNAUP
  • Publication number: 20090266136
    Abstract: An exemplary pin bending device (200) includes a base (210), a sliding member (230), a fixing member (240), and a latch member (250). The sliding member (230) is slidably positioned on the base and defines a plurality of holes (2303) for receiving first portions of pins. The fixing member is fixed on the base. The latch member is movably positioned on the base. The latch member is able to move towards the fixing member in a direction perpendicular to the sliding direction of the sliding member and engage with the fixing member to fix second portions of the pins.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 22, 2008
    Publication date: October 29, 2009
    Applicants: HONG FU JIN PRECISION INDUSTRY (ShenZhen) CO. LTD., HON HAI PRECISION INDUSTRY CO. LTD.
    Inventors: CHUN-NAN OU, BIN WANG, CHENG-BIN SU, JIAN-LONG XING, GA-LEI HU
  • Publication number: 20090266137
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a tool for pipe bending comprising at least two branches (1, 3), at least one link arm (8), at least one former (7), and at least one sliding jaw (9), said at least one former (7) and said at least one sliding jaw (9) being intended to be placed on either side of a pipe (12) to be bent, and said at least one former (7) being fitted to, or constituting a part of, a first branch (1) of said at least two branches (1, 3) at the same time as said at least one sliding jaw (9) being fitted to, or constituting a part of, a second branch (3) of said at least two branches (1, 3). At least one of said at least one former (7) has at least one pipe-positioning index (18, 19), one of which is intended to be placed as close as possible to a corresponding bending-measure index on the pipe (12) when the pipe (12) is placed in the tool in order to be bent. The present invention also relates to a former (7) for use as a part of a tool for pipe bending.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 24, 2007
    Publication date: October 29, 2009
    Applicant: KAPMAN AB
    Inventors: Marten Andren, Olle Bobjer, Hans Himbert, Stefan Strandberg, Mattias Lovemark, Conny Jansson
  • Publication number: 20090266138
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for testing, evaluating, and/or calibrating strain sensors. A test beam (12) having a uniform shear-strain region is secured at opposite ends of a longitudinal axis by uniform force clamp assemblies (14) and (16). A first clamp assembly (14) at one end of the rectilinear test beam is configured to hold the rectilinear test beam (12) in a fixed position, while the second clamp assembly (16) at the opposite end is configured to enable application of torque to the test beam (12) about the longitudinal axis. Displacement sensors (60) in operative proximity to the second clamp assembly (16) provide data which is representative of the deflection of the test beam (12) about the longitudinal axis in response to the applied torque, while a torque sensor (62) provides data which is representative of the actual applied torque.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 7, 2007
    Publication date: October 29, 2009
    Applicant: The Timken Company
    Inventors: Graham McDearmon, Brent Mathie
  • Publication number: 20090266139
    Abstract: A method and apparatus that solve the problem of accurate measurement of gas flow so that the delivery of gases in semiconductor processing may be performed with greater confidence and accuracy by performing real-time characterization of a lead-line for mass flow controller (MFC) flow verification are provided. In one embodiment a mass flow verifier (MFV) provides rate of rise information to a controller via a digital interface without correcting for lead-line influences. After receiving the rate of rise data from the tool host computer computes a gas mass correction factor in real-time based on at least one of the following: MFC temperature sensor data, lead-line temperature sensor data, lead-line pressure transducer data, and lead-line volume. The rate of rise data and gas mass correction factor are used to compute accurate mass flow. The accurate mass flow information may be used to calibrate the MFC.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 22, 2009
    Publication date: October 29, 2009
    Applicant: APPLIED MATERIALS, INC
    Inventors: Mariusch Gregor, John W. Lane
  • Publication number: 20090266140
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for testing a container for puncture resistance using a structure having a means to guide a dropper as the dropper freefalls and impacts with a pressurized container or a pressurized container freefalls and impacts with an impact target. An improved method of manufacturing a steel sheet having an isotropic metallurgical microstructure, the steel sheet being used to form a pressurized container with increased puncture resistance, wherein the improvement comprises heat treatment also is disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 30, 2009
    Publication date: October 29, 2009
    Inventor: Michael J. Fox
  • Publication number: 20090266141
    Abstract: A counter-measure expendable load simulator that includes a handle, a spring, a hammer and test recording equipment. The spring communicates with the handle, while the hammer communicates with the handle such that when the handle is engaged, the handle and hammer compresses the spring, and when the handle is released the spring expands and the spring drives the hammer into a dummy expendable such that the dummy expendable is impacted by the hammer. Test recording equipment records loads imparted by the hammer on the dummy expendable.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 29, 2008
    Publication date: October 29, 2009
    Inventor: Jackie Bryan Pratt
  • Publication number: 20090266142
    Abstract: Systems and methods for determining an NH3 concentration in exhaust gases from an engine are provided. In one exemplary embodiment, a method includes generating a first signal from an NH3 sensor fluidly communicating with the exhaust gases. The method further includes generating a second signal from an air humidity sensor disposed proximate to an air intake manifold of the engine indicating a humidity level. The method further includes determining an air/fuel ratio associated with the engine. The method further includes determining an NH3 deviation value in a calibration table based on the second signal and the air/fuel ratio, utilizing a controller. The method further includes determining an NH3 concentration value based on the first signal and the NH3 deviation value, utilizing the controller. The NH3 concentration value is indicative of the NH3 concentration in the exhaust gases. The method further includes storing the NH3 concentration value in a memory device, utilizing the controller.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 25, 2008
    Publication date: October 29, 2009
    Applicant: DELPHI TECHNOLOGIES, INC.
    Inventors: Da Yu Wang, Sheng Yao
  • Publication number: 20090266143
    Abstract: In a chromatograph, a separation column is disposed between an injection system and a detector. The separation column includes a bundle of capillaries which are formed of carbon nanotubes with a typical diameter of 0.5 nm to 5 nm and may number in the several hundreds.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 5, 2006
    Publication date: October 29, 2009
    Inventors: Matthias Rebhan, Daniel Sickert
  • Publication number: 20090266144
    Abstract: Various embodiments of the application provide a photoacoustic sensor, which includes: a gas cell having an opening; a light source to generate a radiation to radiate sample gas within the gas cell; a detector to detect the sample gas within the gas cell, and to generate electrical signals in response to acoustic signals generated by pressure fluctuations of the radiated sample gas caused by the radiation; and an active valve having a speaker aligned with the opening of the gas cell. The speaker having a voice coil and a diaphragm attached to the voice coil. A control signal is applicable for the speaker to control access of the gas cell. During sampling, the control signal causes the voice coil of the speaker to repeatedly or constantly lift the diaphragm from contact with the opening of the gas cell to allow sample gas enter the gas cell. While during detecting, the spring force of the voice coil causes the diaphragm in tight contact with the opening of gas cell to seal the gas cell.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 23, 2008
    Publication date: October 29, 2009
    Inventor: Thomas M. Rezachek
  • Publication number: 20090266145
    Abstract: A sensor device comprising a holographic element comprises a grating or hologram recorded in a holographic recording medium wherein at least one physical and/or chemical and/or optical characteristic of the holographic element or the image produced by it varies as a result of variation in relative humidity or moisture content in the air surrounding the element. Also provided is an acrylamide-based photopolymer and an acrylamide-based reflection hologram.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 27, 2006
    Publication date: October 29, 2009
    Inventors: Izabela Naydenova, Hosam Sherif, Suzanne Martin, Raghavendra Jallapuram, Vincent Toal
  • Publication number: 20090266146
    Abstract: A device for displaying and measuring air losses in a chest drainage apparatus, having a transparent window enclosure with a connection to a tube end connected to a chest cavity to convey exuded liquids for collection a vessel and air losses, a chamber being provided within the apparatus at one of the transparent windows, that contains liquid and comprises the outlet section of a duct for air loss conveying. The device comprises a bell arranged above the outlet section, immersed in liquid at least at a lower end area, and provided, at the submerged portion, with at least one always-open air outflow port and with at least one additional port for the outflow of air.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 21, 2007
    Publication date: October 29, 2009
    Inventors: Paolo Fontanili, Ruggero Paratelli
  • Publication number: 20090266147
    Abstract: A pressure sensor senses a pressure of a fuel vapor system at a fuel vapor passage. An electronic control unit executes a post-depressurization period flow diagnosis to determine whether the fuel vapor passage is clogged based on a behavior of the pressure in the fuel vapor system, which is sensed with the pressure sensor in a sealed state of the fuel vapor system after introduction of a negative pressure into the fuel vapor system.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 23, 2009
    Publication date: October 29, 2009
    Applicant: DENSO CORPORATION
    Inventor: Yoshinori MAEGAWA
  • Publication number: 20090266148
    Abstract: A seal checker for conveying and pressing a packaging bag by upper and lower conveyance units is provided which is capable of saving space with a compact structure, and is also capable of improving maintainability and cleanability. A lower transfer conveyor is mounted on a main body frame, and an upper transfer conveyor is supported by an elevating mechanism mounted to the main body frame. The elevating mechanism includes first and second link members and a frame that connects upper end portions of the link members to each other. Lower portions of the first and second link members are connected to the main body frame. The frame is configured so as to move in parallel with the lower transfer conveyor.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 20, 2006
    Publication date: October 29, 2009
    Applicant: ISHIDA CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Yuji Yokota, Seisaku Iwasa
  • Publication number: 20090266149
    Abstract: A method for differentiating between a liquid sample having clogs therein and a liquid sample having an abnormally elevated viscosity during a liquid aspiration process by relating the ratio between the maximum negative pressure during aspiration and an equilibrium pressure prior to dispensation to viscosity.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 23, 2008
    Publication date: October 29, 2009
    Applicant: SIEMENS HEALTHCARE DIAGNOSTICS INC.
    Inventor: Michael Kaplit
  • Publication number: 20090266150
    Abstract: A method and system of evaluating the criticality of parameters by evaluating consequences of a loss of capability to determine a desired operating parameter, identification of alternate means of obtaining the parameter, and assigning an importance value to the capability of determining the operating parameter. The resulting evaluation and identification is utilized to direct design and mitigation efforts.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 23, 2008
    Publication date: October 29, 2009
    Inventor: Ari Novis
  • Publication number: 20090266151
    Abstract: A method for providing a specification about an efficiency of a cooler for recirculated exhaust gas in an internal combustion engine includes: measuring a temperature of the recirculated exhaust gas cooled by the cooler; and ascertaining the specification about the efficiency of the cooler as a function of the measured temperature of the cooled recirculated exhaust gas. With the aid of the specification about the efficiency of the cooler it is possible to determine a failure of the cooler or to calculate a temperature of the recirculated exhaust gas in order implement an engine control system of the internal combustion engine on the basis of a reliable temperature specification that is not influenced by lag effects.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 19, 2008
    Publication date: October 29, 2009
    Inventors: Wilhelm BLUMENDELLER, Horst MUELLER
  • Publication number: 20090266152
    Abstract: Disclosed is a method for diagnosing the function of a level control system (1) of a motor vehicle, comprising at least one valve (2a, 2b, 14, 26) and a control unit (10). An exchange of pressure medium from one side of the valve to the other side of the valve is possible when the valve is open, and an exchange of pressure medium is prevented when the valve is closed. The valve carries out a change of state, a variable (4, I) influencing the valve output is measured during the change of state, the measured variable influencing the output of the valve is compared with a reference curve, a family of characteristics or a limit value in the control unit (10), and based on the comparison in the control unit (10) it can be established if the valve has carried out the change of state.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 13, 2007
    Publication date: October 29, 2009
    Inventor: Dierk Hein
  • Publication number: 20090266153
    Abstract: A bonded patch is bonded on a surface of an inner liner. A first patch wall having a first wall surface for restraining a movement of an electronic device main body in one direction is provided integrally with the bonded patch so as to project toward a tire center. A second patch wall having a second wall surface for restraining a movement of an electronic device main body in another direction is provided integrally with the bonded patch so as to project toward the tire center. A connecting segment is provided between the first patch wall and the second patch wall with bridging them for engaging a top of the electronic device main body. A crack occurrence on the mounting structure is prevented by deconcentrating a force applied on an electronic device to overall of the mounting structure to restrain an intensive stress concentration on the mounting structure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 25, 2006
    Publication date: October 29, 2009
    Applicant: BRIDGESTONE CORPORATION
    Inventor: Takayoshi Hironaka
  • Publication number: 20090266154
    Abstract: A self-contained in-borehole gas monitor (IGM) apparatus (8) comprising a detector for measuring a gas variable, and a controller (54) configured to automatically periodically use the detector to measure a gas variable.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 6, 2007
    Publication date: October 29, 2009
    Applicant: INTELISYS LIMITED
    Inventors: Steve Boult, Nathan Boyd
  • Publication number: 20090266155
    Abstract: Methods and apparatuses for detecting radial flows of conductive fluid are provided. In an embodiment of the present invention, shields are used to prevent or reduce circulating electrical currents from causing a voltage difference that would adversely affect the measured voltage difference between two adjacent electrodes. The shields may be a conduit through which conductive fluid may flow. Groups of sensors, e.g., two or more, may be placed within the shield. The shields may have any cross-section shape. Generally, once the circulating electrical current flow between the electrode pairs is substantially reduced or eliminated, only the voltage difference from the localized induced electric field remains. This way, a true induced voltage may be measured, and thus an accurate value for the fluid velocity may be determined.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 6, 2009
    Publication date: October 29, 2009
    Inventor: Robert E. Maute
  • Publication number: 20090266156
    Abstract: A direction indicator comprising a direction pointer arranged to pivot about a fulcrum and a flight mounted on the direction pointer that is capable of interacting with a fluid flow, the flight having a resistive portion resistive to fluid flow in a direction parallel to a longitudinal axis of the direction pointer, the resistive portion being substantially effective to cause the direction pointer to pivot about the fulcrum and thereby align the flight with the direction of the fluid flow.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 29, 2007
    Publication date: October 29, 2009
    Inventor: Jude Baker-Mill
  • Publication number: 20090266157
    Abstract: A liquid-level detecting apparatus is provided. The liquid-level detecting apparatus includes a resistance plate with an insulating substrate; conductive segments on the insulating substrate at substantially equal intervals; a resistor mounted on the conductive segments and through which the conductive segments are connected to each other; an conductive sliding arm including a contact part for selectively coming into sliding contact with a portion of the conductive segments; a conducting pattern which is formed between one or more pairs of two adjacent conductive segments to short-circuit the two adjacent conductive segments; and a measuring device which is connected to one of the conductive segments and measures a value based on a portion of the resistor connected between a first segment of the conductive segments contacted by the contact part and the one of the conductive segments connected to the measuring device, thereby detecting a level of the liquid surface.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 23, 2009
    Publication date: October 29, 2009
    Inventors: Hisafumi MARUO, Takahiro Miyakawa
  • Publication number: 20090266158
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a casing assembly of a monitor. The monitor includes a casing, a cover and a connecting arm. The casing has a first end and a second end. The second end has a plurality of fixing portions. The cover is provided with a plurality of fixing elements that correspond to the fixing portions and are fixed to each other. These fixing elements can be operated manually. One end of the connecting arm is rotationally connected with the second end of the casing; and the another end of the connecting arm is fixed to the cover thereon so that the cover can be opened or closed manually without any tools at the second end of the casing, and prevent the cover from falling off or lost easily.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 29, 2008
    Publication date: October 29, 2009
    Inventor: Ching-Tsung Pan
  • Publication number: 20090266159
    Abstract: A hydrometer, hydrometer kit, and method of measuring the salinity/density or the salinity/specific gravity of a liquid are provided. The hydrometer may include a box structure comprising side walls and a bottom. At least a portion of one of the side walls may be substantially transparent. A buoyant indicator member may be pivotably disposed about an axis within the box structure. The indicator member may pivot about the axis when the box structure is filled with a liquid. A salinity/density scale or salinity/specific gravity scale may be disposed on a surface of the box structure or a dial member. At least one adhesive member may be removably adhered to the indicator member by a user so that the hydrometer can be calibrated based on a reference solution having a predetermined salinity. The at least one adhesive member may increase or decrease the buoyancy of the indicator member. The kit may include the hydrometer and a container of the reference solution having a predetermined salinity.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 29, 2009
    Publication date: October 29, 2009
    Inventor: Julian Sprung
  • Publication number: 20090266160
    Abstract: A method and system of determining an imbalance of a wind turbine is provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 21, 2009
    Publication date: October 29, 2009
    Inventors: Mike Jeffrey, Michael Melsheimer, Jan Liersch
  • Publication number: 20090266161
    Abstract: The balancing machine for balancing vehicle wheels comprises a base frame supporting a balancing spindle for balancing a vehicle wheel, a lifting device associable with the base frame and suitable for fitting and removing the wheel onto and off the balancing spindle, and a protection guard associable with the base frame and suitable for covering the wheel fitted on the balancing spindle, the lifting device and the protection guard being integrated together in a multifunctional device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 24, 2009
    Publication date: October 29, 2009
    Inventors: Marco Matteucci, Mauro Zona
  • Publication number: 20090266162
    Abstract: Capacitive bulk acoustic wave x, y and z-axes gyroscopes implemented on (100) and (111) silicon substrates are disclosed. Exemplary gyroscopes comprise a handle substrate, a bulk acoustic wave resonator element supported by the handle substrate, and a plurality of electrodes surrounding and separated from the resonator element by very small capacitive gaps. The electrodes can excite and detect at least two degenerate bulk acoustic wave resonant modes in the resonator. Advantages include reduced size; higher Q, which improves noise and bias stability; larger bandwidth, and improved shock resistance. In addition, the high Q is maintained in atmospheric or near-atmospheric pressure which reduces the cost and complexity of the wafer-scale packaging of the gyroscope.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 4, 2009
    Publication date: October 29, 2009
    Applicant: Georgia Tech Research Corp
    Inventors: Farrokh Ayazi, Houri Johari
  • Publication number: 20090266163
    Abstract: A sensor includes detecting element (28) with an acceleration sensor, which is formed of weight (18) coupled to rigid section (14) via flexible section (16), substrate (10) confronting weight (18), and an electrode section including opposed electrodes (20, 22, 24, 26) placed on respective opposed faces of weight (18) and substrate (10). This structure prevents weight (18) from moving along Z-axis, so that a detection accuracy of acceleration occurring along X-axis or Y-axis can be improved.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 9, 2007
    Publication date: October 29, 2009
    Applicant: PANASONIC CORPORATION
    Inventors: Satoshi Ohuchi, Toshiyuki Nozoe, Hiroyuki Aizawa
  • Publication number: 20090266164
    Abstract: A capacitive sensor includes a fixed electrode and a movable electrode that is movably supported by an anchor portion through a beam portion. The fixed electrode and the movable electrode are opposed to each other with a gap interposed therebetween, thereby constituting a detecting unit. A capacitance suitable for a size of the gap is detected to detect a predetermined physical value. At least one of an end of the beam portion connected to the anchor portion and an end of the beam portion connected to the movable electrode is provided with a stress moderating unit that moderates a stress.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 25, 2007
    Publication date: October 29, 2009
    Applicant: PANASONIC ELECTRIC WORKS CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Eiichi Furukubo, Daisuke Wakabayashi, Hisakazu Miyajima, Masao Ohbuchi, Ryo Aoki
  • Publication number: 20090266165
    Abstract: A method for determining a velocity and density of a fluid without requiring the transmission of ultrasound through the fluid, and a system for performing such a method. The method involves the steps of delivering, receiving and analyzing ultrasound pulses sent from a longitudinal and a shear wave transducers to a member that is in contact with a fluid. The ultrasound pulses reflecting between surfaces provide a first ultrasound pulse echo series, that is transmitted, received and processed. The shear wave ultrasound pulses are also delivered through a shear wave transducer at a predesignated angle relative to the interface of the member and the fluid and the results of this are received to obtain a second ultrasound pulse echo series. Reflection coefficients for the first and second ultrasound pulse echo series are then calculated and the density of the fluid and the velocity of sound in the fluids are extracted.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 23, 2008
    Publication date: October 29, 2009
    Inventor: Margaret Stautberg Greenwood
  • Publication number: 20090266166
    Abstract: An ultrasonic rail inspection system designed to detect defects in a rail which result from longitudinal cracks that propagate in the horizontal and transverse plane of the rail. Detection of this type of defect is possible by directing an ultrasonic beam into the rail at a predetermined angle from the perpendicular to the surface of the rail. The predetermined angle must be sufficient to detect these normally undetectable defects and can be in the range of 8° to 14° from the perpendicular.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 23, 2008
    Publication date: October 29, 2009
    Inventor: Dominick A. Pagano
  • Publication number: 20090266167
    Abstract: An ultrasonic rail inspection system designed to detect defects in a rail which result from longitudinal cracks that propagate in the horizontal and transverse plane of the rail. Detection of this type of defect is possible by directing an ultrasonic beam into the rail at a predetermined angle from the perpendicular to the surface of the rail. The predetermined angle must be sufficient to detect these normally undetectable defects and can be in the range of 8° to 14° from the perpendicular.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 3, 2008
    Publication date: October 29, 2009
    Inventor: Dominick A. Pagano
  • Publication number: 20090266168
    Abstract: Provided are a tilted vibration sensor incorporating a plurality of electrodes and a conductive spherical body which is turned on and off by the moving displacement of the spherical body, and which may be remarkably reduced in size and may have high performance and high operating sensitivity, high durability, and high reliability; and a method of manufacturing the sensor. The case (1) of the sensor comprises a case body (5) formed of a non-conductive material having such excellent gas-barrier property and heat resistance that can stop the transmission of gases which affects on the on/off operation of the sensor due to the moving displacement of the conductive spherical body (4) and a cover body (7) sealing airtight the opening part (6) of the case body. In the method of manufacturing the vibration sensor, moisture and particulate impurities affecting the on/off operation are removed from the hollow part (2) of the case (1), and the hollow part is evacuated.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 17, 2006
    Publication date: October 29, 2009
    Inventor: Teruo Shimase
  • Publication number: 20090266169
    Abstract: This present invention concerns a device having a mechanical bearing formed by two coaxial rings, one fixed relative to the machine and the other rotating, between which at least one rolling element is moveably positioned, at least one non-conducting positioning means secured to the fixed bearing ring, the positioning means including at least one placement holder for at least one conducting element forming a first plate of a capacitor, at a distance from a conducting part of the rotating ring forming the second plate of the capacitor, and with the positioning means attached to at least one partitioning means, the partitioning means being used to create a space between the two plates, thus forming a dielectric insulating medium, and to act as a sealed enclosure for this insulating medium (7) by being in contact with a part of the surface of the rotating ring.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 7, 2009
    Publication date: October 29, 2009
    Applicant: Universite De Reims Champagne Ardenne
    Inventors: Patrick MARCONNET, Bernard Pottier, Lanto Rasolofondraibe
  • Publication number: 20090266170
    Abstract: A pressure sensor which includes: a semiconductor substrate; a first cavity portion that spreads out approximately parallel with one surface of the semiconductor substrate in the interior of a central region thereof; a diaphragm portion of a thin plate shape that is positioned on one side of the first cavity portion; a pressure sensitive element that is disposed on the diaphragm; and a bump that is disposed in an outer edge region of the one surface of the semiconductor substrate that excludes the diaphragm portion and is electrically connected with the pressure sensitive element, wherein a second cavity portion is disposed in at least one portion of the outer edge region in the interior of the semiconductor substrate and is closed with respect to the one surface of the semiconductor substrate.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 20, 2009
    Publication date: October 29, 2009
    Applicant: FUJIKURA LTD.
    Inventors: Sinichi MURASHIGE, SATOSHI YAMAMOTO
  • Publication number: 20090266171
    Abstract: A pressure sensor module includes a pressure sensor, a bump, and a laminated substrate. The pressure sensor includes a semiconductor substrate; a cavity; a pressure-sensitive element; and a conductive section. The cavity is disposed inside the semiconductor substrate such that a thin-plate region of the semiconductor substrate is provided and the thin-plate region being defined as a diaphragm. The pressure-sensitive element is arranged at the diaphragm. The conductive section is electrically connected to the pressure-sensitive element and disposed on the face of the semiconductor substrate at a region excluding the diaphragm. The bump is electrically connected to the conductive section. The laminated substrate includes a wiring base material electrically connected to the pressure sensor via the bump. The wiring base material is disposed inside the laminated substrate. A face of the wiring base material is electrically connected to the bump and has an exposed area from the laminated substrate.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 22, 2009
    Publication date: October 29, 2009
    Applicant: Fujikura Ltd.
    Inventors: Satoshi Yamamoto, Hirokazu Hashimoto
  • Publication number: 20090266172
    Abstract: Described herein is the sense element assembly for a capacitive pressure sensor and method for creating same that has increased sensitivity without additional size. The sense element assembly and method includes fabricating an off-centered elliptically shaped center electrode, at least one elliptical annular-like electrode around the center electrode, a ground electrode and a method for fusing the layers together to optimize sensitivity.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 24, 2008
    Publication date: October 29, 2009
    Applicant: CUSTOM SENSORS & TECHNOLOGIES, INC.
    Inventors: Gary L. Casey, Marcos Nassar, Nhan Nguyen
  • Publication number: 20090266173
    Abstract: In a pressure sensor including a pressure detecting element in an intermediate portion or at a deep side of a through hole formed in a protrusion, a body portion (a base portion and the protrusion) is made of ceramic or an insulative resin material and molded into a predetermined shape, and the pressure sensor is constituted as a molded interconnect device in which a conductive pattern is formed on a surface thereof. Accordingly, a smaller pressure sensor can be obtained.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 27, 2007
    Publication date: October 29, 2009
    Applicant: PANASONIC ELECTRIC WORKS CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Mitsuru Kobayashi, Hiroshi Inoue, Hitoshi Makinaga, Junji Imai, Yasufumi Masaki, Naoto Ikegawa, Youichiro Nakahara
  • Publication number: 20090266174
    Abstract: An object of the present invention is to provide an adhesion inspection apparatus and method that can provide a reliable detection even for defect without the need of any complicated works, such as adjusting of an optical axis of instrument. An adhesion inspection apparatus 1 for inspecting adhesion of a package box 3 constructed with use of an adhesive, said apparatus characterized in that a vacuum pad 5 to be affixed for sucking on an outer surface of the package box 3 at an area proximal to an adhered region thereof; an inspection arm 9 carrying the vacuum pad 5 at one end thereof; a rotating shaft 11 joined to the other end of the inspection arm 9; a driving device 13 for driving the rotating shaft 11 to make a rotational movement; and a torque sensor 15 for detecting a torque induced in the driving device 13.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 23, 2007
    Publication date: October 29, 2009
    Inventors: Hideyuki Kawabe, Katsushige Mori
  • Publication number: 20090266175
    Abstract: An apparatus (and corresponding method) for characterizing the fluid properties of a two phase fluid includes a restriction element (e.g., orifice plate or nozzle) along the flow path of the two phase fluid. At least one temperature sensor measures temperature of the two phase fluid flowing through the restriction element. A pressure sensor measures the pressure downstream of the restriction element. Time-of-flight measurements of pulses passing through the two phase fluid are made. The speed of sound within the two phase fluid is calculated from the time-of-flight measurements. At least one fluid property (e.g., a vapor phase fraction) of the two phase fluid is calculated from the measured pressure, the measured temperature, and the calculated speed of sound.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 25, 2008
    Publication date: October 29, 2009
    Applicant: SCHLUMBERGER TECHNOLOGY CORP.
    Inventors: FRANCK BRUNO JEAN MONMONT, HERVE OHMER, GARY MARTIN ODDIE, ALLAN PEATS