Patents Issued in March 10, 2011
  • Publication number: 20110056292
    Abstract: Each of first and second oscillators includes a detector portion and a driver portion. The detector portion includes a stationary detector electrode and a detector weight, which includes a movable detector electrode opposed to the stationary detector electrode. The driver portion includes a driver weight having a movable driver electrode, which oscillates the detector portion, and a stationary driver electrode opposed to the movable driver electrode. The driver weights of the first and second oscillators are directly connected through a driver joint beam. The detector weights of the first and second oscillators are directly connected through a detector joint beam.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 2, 2010
    Publication date: March 10, 2011
    Applicant: DENSO CORPORATION
    Inventors: Tomoya Jomori, Minekazu Sakai
  • Publication number: 20110056293
    Abstract: An external-force detecting apparatus includes at least one drive line connecting the corresponding drive electrodes to a driving unit and at least one monitor line connecting the corresponding monitor electrodes to the driving unit. The driving unit outputs a drive signal to the at least one of the drive electrodes through the at least one of the drive lines to drive an oscillator and performs automatic gain control to the level of the drive signal based on the oscillation state of the oscillator acquired from the at least one of the monitor electrodes through the at least one of the monitor lines.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 11, 2010
    Publication date: March 10, 2011
    Applicant: MURATA MANUFACTURING CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Akira MORI, Yoshitaka KATO, Satoshi ICHIHARA
  • Publication number: 20110056294
    Abstract: A MEMS resonant accelerometer is disclosed, having: a proof mass coupled to a first anchoring region via a first elastic element so as to be free to move along a sensing axis in response to an external acceleration; and a first resonant element mechanically coupled to the proof mass through the first elastic element so as to be subject to a first axial stress when the proof mass moves along the sensing axis and thus to a first variation of a resonant frequency. The MEMS resonant accelerometer is further provided with a second resonant element mechanically coupled to the proof mass through a second elastic element so as to be subject to a second axial stress when the proof mass moves along the sensing axis, substantially opposite to the first axial stress, and thus to a second variation of a resonant frequency, opposite to the first variation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 2, 2010
    Publication date: March 10, 2011
    Applicants: STMicroelectronics S.r.I., Politecnico di Milano
    Inventors: Barbara Simoni, Claudia Comi, Alberto Corigliano
  • Publication number: 20110056295
    Abstract: A micromechanical system includes a first movable element, which is connected to a substrate via a first spring element, and a second movable element, which is connected to the substrate via a second spring element. The first movable element and the second movable element are movable in relation to the substrate independent of one another. Furthermore, the first movable element and the second movable element are situated one above the other in at least some sections in a direction perpendicular to the substrate surface.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 9, 2010
    Publication date: March 10, 2011
    Inventor: Johannes Classen
  • Publication number: 20110056296
    Abstract: A physical quantity sensor includes: a fixing part; an elastic deforming part; a movable weight part coupled to the fixing part via the elastic deforming part; a fixed arm part extended from the fixing part; and a movable arm part extended from the movable weight part and provided to face the fixed arm part via a gap, wherein the fixed arm part and the movable arm part are laminated structures containing insulating layers and conductor layers, the fixed arm part has a first side surface conductor film provided on a side surface of the fixed arm part and a first connecting electrode part using the conductor layer and electrically connected to the first side surface conductor film, and the movable arm part has a second side surface conductor film provided on aside surface opposed to the first side surface conductor film and a second connecting electrode part using the conductor layer and electrically connected to the second side surface conductor film.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 1, 2010
    Publication date: March 10, 2011
    Applicant: SEIKO EPSON CORPORATION
    Inventor: Kei KANEMOTO
  • Publication number: 20110056297
    Abstract: A micromechanical system for detecting an acceleration includes a substrate, a rocker-like mass structure having a first lever arm and a diametrically opposed second lever arm, the lever arms being situated tiltably at a distance to the substrate and about an axis of rotation to the substrate, and first and second electrodes being provided on the substrate. Each electrode is diametrically opposed to a lever arm and each lever arm includes a section extending from the axis of rotation which is located between the electrodes above an intermediate space. The two sections have different masses.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 7, 2010
    Publication date: March 10, 2011
    Inventor: Johannes CLASSEN
  • Publication number: 20110056298
    Abstract: The present invention provides new techniques for non-invasive and real-time measurement of the velocity profile of slurry flow in horizontal pipes, as well as the measurement and trending of pipe wear on slurry lines. In the first case, this information can be used to determine the approach and onset of solid deposition on the bottom of the pipe. Having this information in real time can enable operation at lower velocities or higher solids concentration or both while avoiding solids deposition or plugging and their associated operational costs. In the second case, the present invention uses a permanently or semi-permanently installed ring of conformable ultrasonic transducers clamped onto the outside of the pipe. These transducers are used to measure the thickness of the pipe under their respective locations.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 16, 2009
    Publication date: March 10, 2011
    Applicant: CIDRA CORPORATE SERVICES INC.
    Inventors: Christian Victor O'keefe, Robert J. Maron, Mark R. Fernald, Timothy J. Bailey, Alex M. Van der Spek, Michael A. Davis, John V. Viega
  • Publication number: 20110056299
    Abstract: Certain embodiments of the invention may be found in an ultra low power dosimeter assembly. The ultra low power dosimeter assembly may comprise a low power voltage source and a table circuit. The table circuit may be adapted to convert an input voltage to a second voltage level. The second voltage level may correspond to noise dose. The ultra low power dosimeter assembly may also comprise a switch adapted to trigger a control circuit. The control circuit may provide progressive attenuation of an output signal as the second voltage level increases. In certain embodiments, the control circuit may also be adapted to send one or more warning signals to a user of the ultra low power dosimeter. The one or more warning signals may be sent when the control circuit determines the second voltage level has reached one or more pre-determined threshold voltage levels.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 12, 2010
    Publication date: March 10, 2011
    Applicant: ETYMOTIC RESEARCH, INC.
    Inventor: Mead C. Killion
  • Publication number: 20110056300
    Abstract: An apparatus for applying at least one cyclical load to an elongate specimen, comprising at least two reciprocating mass means 1 each comprising a mass (6) and an actuator (16), wherein the actuator (16) is (5) operatively associated with the mass (6) to move the mass (6) along a linear displacement path, mounting means (2) for mounting each actuator (16) to a specimen, and a control system operatively associated with each actuator (16), the control system operating each actuator (16) to reciprocate its corresponding mass (6) along its respective linear displacement path, wherein the reciprocating mass means (1) are spaced apart such that the actuators (16) move their corresponding masses (6) on separate, and substantially parallel, linear displacement paths is disclosed
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 30, 2009
    Publication date: March 10, 2011
    Inventors: Alan Waggot, Peter Hope, Ian Williamson, Richard Court
  • Publication number: 20110056301
    Abstract: The invention relates to a pressure sensor (6). This pressure sensor (6) comprises a flexible membrane (11) cooperating with a transmission device (10) that enables a value representing the pressure to be supplied on the basis of the deformation of the membrane (11). The membrane (11) is made from an at least partially amorphous material in order to optimise the dimensions of the sensor (6).
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 20, 2009
    Publication date: March 10, 2011
    Applicant: THE SWATCH GROUP RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT LTD.
    Inventors: Yves Winkler, Frédéric Meylan, Joachim Grupp
  • Publication number: 20110056302
    Abstract: An electronic circuit (10) for controlling a capacitive pressure sensor (1), which capacitive pressure sensor (1) comprises a plate electrode capacitor (C) with a capacity that varies in dependence on pressure changes exerted on a deflectable diaphragm (2) forming one plate electrode of the capacitor (C), wherein the electronic circuit (10) comprises a DC voltage source (12) being adapted to generate a DC bias-voltage (UDC) to be applied across the electrodes of the capacitor (C), an AC voltage source (13) being adapted to generate an AC voltage signal (UAC) to be applied across the electrodes of the capacitor (C) and a controller (18) being adapted to receive an output signal (OUT) of the capacitor (C) and to control the DC voltage source (12) such that the DC bias-voltage (UDC) applied to the capacitor (C) adopts a value that maintains the capacity of the capacitor (C) at a desired value.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 3, 2009
    Publication date: March 10, 2011
    Applicant: NXP B.V.
    Inventor: Josef Lutz
  • Publication number: 20110056303
    Abstract: An annular assembly, or ring cell, is provided for testing the load bearing capacity of piles. The ring cell walls of the annular assembly can be made of stamped material. The ring cell walls can be an outer ring wall and an inner ring wall. Alternately, the ring cell walls can have a “U”-type shape cross-section including an outer ring wall, an inner ring wall, and a top wall. Fluid can be provided to the annular assembly through fluid supply lines into an expansion zone. The expansion zone can be a space having a bladder for filling with fluid. In another embodiment, the expansion zone can be a space between a filler material capable of withstanding high pressure separated with a membrane. The pressure of the fluid in the expansion zone can be monitored during testing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 15, 2010
    Publication date: March 10, 2011
    Applicant: LOADTEST, INC.
    Inventor: John A. Hayes
  • Publication number: 20110056304
    Abstract: A test fixture for simultaneously testing two material test samples is provided. The fixture provides substantially equal shear and tensile stresses in each test specimens. By gradually applying a load force to the fixture only one of the two specimens fractures. Upon fracture of the one specimen, the fixture and the load train lose contact and the second specimen is preserved in a state of upset just prior to fracture. Particular advantages of the fixture are (1) to control the tensile to shear load on the specimen for understanding the effect of these stresses on the deformation behavior of advanced materials, (2) to control the location of fracture for accessing localized material properties including the variation of the mechanical properties and residual stresses across the thickness of advanced materials, (3) to yield a fractured specimen for strength measurement and an unfractured specimen for examining the microstructure just prior to fracture.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 8, 2009
    Publication date: March 10, 2011
    Inventors: Chun-hway Hsueh, Chain-tsuan Liu, Easo P. George
  • Publication number: 20110056305
    Abstract: An electromagnetic flowmeter comprises a measuring pipe through which fluid to be measured flows, an electrode provided therein, an exciting unit, a signal line, a signal conversion unit that extracts a ?A/?t component that results from a change in the magnetic field from a resultant electromotive force of an electromotive force of the ?A/?t component; and an electromotive force of a v×B component that results from a flow speed of the fluid, wherein the resultant electromotive force is detected by the electrode and the signal line; and a flow rate output unit that eliminates, based on the extracted ?A/?t component, a variation factor as to a span that is a coefficient applied to a magnitude V of a flow speed of the v×B component in the resultant electromotive force so as to calculate a flow rate of the fluid.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 1, 2010
    Publication date: March 10, 2011
    Applicant: Yamatake Corporation
    Inventor: Tomoshige YAMAMOTO
  • Publication number: 20110056306
    Abstract: A state detection device which detects parameters includes a measuring pipe, electrodes, an exciting coil that applies a magnetic field to the fluid, signal lines arranged at angle to the magnetic field such that an electromotive force is generated due to a change with passage of time in the magnetic field, and a state quantifying unit for extracting a ?A/?t component from resultant electromotive forces that are detected at the electrodes and the signal lines and are composed of an electromotive force of the ?A/?t component irrelevant to a flow velocity of the fluid and resulting from a change with passage of time in the magnetic field and an electromotive force of a v×B component relevant to the flow velocity of the fluid, and extracts a variation factor relevant to the parameter from the ?A/?t component to quantify the parameter based on the variation factor.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 2, 2010
    Publication date: March 10, 2011
    Applicant: Yamatake Corporation
    Inventor: Tomoshige YAMAMOTO
  • Publication number: 20110056307
    Abstract: An electromagnetic flowmeter includes a measuring tube, electrodes, an exciting coil for applying, to a fluid, a time-changing magnetic field asymmetrical with respect to a plane PLN, a signal conversion unit which extracts a ?A/?t component, irrelevant to a fluid flow velocity, from a resultant electromotive force of an electromotive force based on the ?A/?t component and an electromotive force based on a v×B component originating from the flow velocity of the fluid, a flow rate output unit which removes a variation factor for a span as a coefficient applied to a magnitude V of a flow velocity of the v×B component in the resultant electromotive force, based on the extracted ?A/?t component, and calculates a flow rate of the fluid from a result obtained by removing the variation factor, and signal lines inclined with respect to a direction of the magnetic field in parallel with the plane PLN.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 8, 2010
    Publication date: March 10, 2011
    Applicant: Yamatake Corporation
    Inventors: Tomoshige YAMAMOTO, Daisuke Akita, Yoshio Yamazaki, Kenji Yao
  • Publication number: 20110056308
    Abstract: A system and method are provided for quantifying a degree of discontinuity of material flow from a meter roller. In an exemplary embodiment, flowable particulate material is fed into a meter roller. The meter roller is then rotated one revolution, and the output from the meter roller is collected and measured. Next, the meter roller is rotated one revolution in discrete increments, each increment having a substantially equal rotational angle. The output from the meter roller is then collected and measured for each increment. Finally, the measurement for each increment is compared to the measurement for the one revolution to determine a statistical parameter indicative of flow rate discontinuity.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 4, 2009
    Publication date: March 10, 2011
    Applicant: CNH Canada, Ltd.
    Inventors: Jim Henry, Joel Gervais, Devon Schollar, Scott David Noble, Ka Po Catherine Hui
  • Publication number: 20110056309
    Abstract: A torque measurement device including: a power shaft transmitting rotary torque about the axis of the power shaft; a first wheel carrying angle marks, the wheel being secured to the power shaft; a reference shaft including a second wheel carrying angle marks; and a sensor placed facing at least one of the wheels to determine the torque transmitted by the power shaft. The first wheel includes first and second series of angle marks and the second wheel includes third and fourth series of angle marks. The marks of the first and third series are mutually parallel, while the marks of the second and fourth series are mutually parallel and are inclined relative to a first axial plane containing the axis, the marks of the first series being inclined relative to the marks of the second series, whereby the signal supplied by the sensor is representative of temperature of the power shaft.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 14, 2009
    Publication date: March 10, 2011
    Applicant: Turbomeca
    Inventors: Yannick Cazaux, Gerald Senger
  • Publication number: 20110056310
    Abstract: A retainer for use in measuring a force generated between a photocurable resin and a pressing member by a detector includes: a pressing member that has light transmission characteristics and is pressed to the photocurable resin; and a light irradiation block that is provided between the detector and the pressing member and irradiates light emitted from an external light source onto the pressing member in a state of being not contacting a light source and an optical transmission line including an optical fiber.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 27, 2010
    Publication date: March 10, 2011
    Applicants: SHIMADZU CORPORATION, TOHOKU UNIVERSITY
    Inventors: Masaki Kaneda, Masaru Nakagawa, Akihiro Kohno
  • Publication number: 20110056311
    Abstract: A method of scanning a sample plate surface mask in an area adjacent to a conductive area using mass spectrometry is disclosed. The method comprises the steps of providing a sample plate including a mask applied with a rough surface to the electrically conductive surface to produce a sample site comprising a central portion formed from the electrically conductive surface and a marginal portion of the mask, preparing an analyte comprising mixing a biomolecule with an organic solvent, an aqueous solution, and a matrix selected from the group of ?-cyano-4-hydroxycinnamic acid and 3,5-dimethoxy-4-hydroxycinnamic acid; applying the analyte to the sample site; forming at least one crystal of the analyte in an area on the mask adjacent to the conductive area, and scanning the area on the mask adjacent to the conductive area with a laser beam.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 9, 2010
    Publication date: March 10, 2011
    Inventor: Joseph L. DiCesare
  • Publication number: 20110056312
    Abstract: An apparatus for handling a liquid sample, especially for automatic removal of a liquid sample from a sample-taking location, comprising: a control unit; a sample collecting unit; a supply and metering system, which is embodied to convey a liquid sample from the sample-taking location and to meter the sample into a liquid receptacle of the sample collecting unit; a housing with a first housing part, which at least partially surrounds at least the sample collecting unit, and a second housing part, which is separated from the first housing part, and which at least partially surrounds a metering space; wherein at least parts of the supply and metering system are arranged in the metering space; and wherein the apparatus furthermore includes a plate, which is releasably connected with the second housing part surrounding the metering space, and which divides the metering space into a first metering space part and a second metering space part.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 8, 2010
    Publication date: March 10, 2011
    Applicant: Endress + Hauser Conducta Gesellschaft fur Mess-und Regeltechnik mbH + Co. KG
    Inventors: Karl-Heinz Bareiss, Michael Kirchner, Ralf Steuerwald
  • Publication number: 20110056313
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a method for measuring the conditions inside a power boiler wherein a sootblower is used as a measuring probe. The invention also relates to a system for measuring the conditions in a power boiler, comprising a control unit, at least one sensor and a measuring probe placed inside said furnace, wherein said probe is arranged on a soot blower.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 13, 2009
    Publication date: March 10, 2011
    Applicant: SOOT-TECH AKTIEBOLAG
    Inventors: Erik Dahlen, Mikael Niklasson
  • Publication number: 20110056314
    Abstract: The present invention comprehends a plurality of embodiments of a hydraulic control system for various configurations of dual clutch transmissions. The hydraulic control systems all include a regulated source of pressurized hydraulic fluid including an electric pump, a filter and an accumulator, a pair of pressure control valves and a branching hydraulic circuit including pressure or flow control valves, spool or logic valves and two position valves which collectively supply and exhaust hydraulic fluid from a plurality of shift actuators. The actuators are connected to shift rails which include shift forks and are slidable to engage synchronizers and positive clutches associated with the various gear ratios.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 9, 2009
    Publication date: March 10, 2011
    Applicant: GM GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS, INC.
    Inventors: Philip C. Lundberg, Bret M. Olson
  • Publication number: 20110056315
    Abstract: The present invention comprehends two embodiments of a hydraulic control system for a dual clutch transmission. The hydraulic control systems include a regulated source of pressurized hydraulic fluid including an electric pump, a filter and an accumulator, a pair of pressure control valves and a branching hydraulic circuit including pressure or flow control valves, spool or logic valves and two position valves which collectively supply and exhaust hydraulic fluid from a plurality of shift actuators. The actuators are connected to shift rails which include shift forks and are slidable to engage synchronizers and positive clutches associated with the various gear ratios.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 9, 2009
    Publication date: March 10, 2011
    Applicant: GM GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS, INC.
    Inventors: Philip C. Lundberg, Bret M. Olson
  • Publication number: 20110056316
    Abstract: The present invention comprehends a plurality of embodiments of a hydraulic control system for various configurations of dual clutch transmissions. The hydraulic control systems all include a regulated source of pressurized hydraulic fluid including an electric pump, a filter and an accumulator, a pair of pressure control valves and a branching hydraulic circuit including pressure or flow control valves, spool or logic valves and two position valves which collectively supply and exhaust hydraulic fluid from a plurality of shift actuators. The actuators are connected to shift rails which include shift forks and are slidable to engage synchronizers and positive clutches associated with the various gear ratios.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 9, 2009
    Publication date: March 10, 2011
    Applicant: GM GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS, INC.
    Inventors: Philip C. Lundberg, Bret M. Olson
  • Publication number: 20110056317
    Abstract: In a twin-clutch transmission, when a third shift valve (for example) goes out of order and the shift change accordingly becomes incapable of being carried out, the hydraulic pressure outputted from the third shift valve is controlled by a fourth shift valve operated by a first shift solenoid for a first shift valve. Accordingly, the hydraulic pressure outputted by a second linear solenoid is supplied to one of second hydraulic actuators, thereby enabling one of second predetermined transmission gear stages to be pre-shifted by use of a second power transmission path. When the first shift valve is used as a fail-safe, it is possible for the vehicle to make a minimum necessary run by setting up one of the second predetermined transmission gear stages. Furthermore, the fourth shift valve is driven by use of the existing first shift solenoid, thus minimizing the number of parts and cost.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 26, 2010
    Publication date: March 10, 2011
    Applicant: HONDA MOTOR CO., LTD.
    Inventor: TAKAO SATO
  • Publication number: 20110056318
    Abstract: An operating device for a gear-changing transmission operated by shift-by-wire is disclosed. The operating device includes an operating element, rotatably or pivotally supported in a bearing position having a position sensor device, and a device for producing force-feedback. The force-feedback device includes an adjustable counterforce element acting on the operating element, wherein the counterforce element comprises a fluid having controllably variable viscosity. The operating device including the counterforce element is produced by a bearing gap of the bearing position of the operating element, with the bearing gap being filled with the fluid. A space-saving integration of the counterforce element of a force-feedback device is enabled into the joint of an operating lever. Thus, the cost, structural complexity, and installation space required for an operating device having force-feedback is significantly reduced. The haptics of a mechanical operating lever can be realistically emulated.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 12, 2010
    Publication date: March 10, 2011
    Applicant: ZF Friedrichshafen AG
    Inventors: Ludger Rake, Andreas Giefer
  • Publication number: 20110056319
    Abstract: A bicycle shift control device is provided with a shifter housing, a gear shifting mechanism, a shift operating member, and a shift switching arrangement. The gear shifting mechanism is disposed in the shifter housing with the gear shifting mechanism having a plurality of operating positions. The shift operating member is movable with respect to the shifter housing to operate the gear shifting mechanism. The shift switching arrangement includes a restricting member movably mounted with respect to the shifter housing between a non-shift restricting position and a shift restricting position. The gear shifting mechanism moves in a first set of the operating positions when the restricting member is in the non-shift restricting position, and moves in a second set of the operating positions that are different from the first set of the operating positions when the restricting member is in the shift restricting position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 4, 2009
    Publication date: March 10, 2011
    Applicant: SHIMANO INC.
    Inventors: Toshihiko Takeuchi, Kazutaka Fukao, Yoshimitsu Miki
  • Publication number: 20110056320
    Abstract: A steerable multi-linked device. The device includes a first multi-linked mechanism and a second multi-linked mechanism. At least one of the first and second multi-linked mechanisms is steerable and includes a modular link assembly at an end thereof. The modular link assembly includes a base, and a tip removably connected to the base.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 10, 2010
    Publication date: March 10, 2011
    Applicant: CARNEGIE MELLON UNIVERSITY
    Inventors: Brett Zubiate, Howard M. Choset, Amir Degani, Michael Schwerin
  • Publication number: 20110056321
    Abstract: Disclosed herein are a robot joint driving method, computer-readable medium, and device assembly which conducts motions similar to those of humans, and a robot having the same. These motions are achieved by arranging joint driving devices suited to characteristics of respective joints. The robot joint driving device assembly includes a tendon-type joint driving device using a wire, and a harmonic drive-type joint driving device using a gear reduction method. The tendon-type joint driving device is used to drive a rotary joint requiring high back-drivability, and the harmonic drive-type joint driving device is used to drive a rotary joint requiring high rigidity and high precision.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 9, 2010
    Publication date: March 10, 2011
    Applicant: SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Hyun Sik SIM, Soo Sang Yang, Youn Baek Lee, Yeon Taek Oh
  • Publication number: 20110056322
    Abstract: A parking brake lever apparatus for a vehicle includes a first latchet member and a second latchet member arranged along the direction of an axis of a rotating shaft of a holder member which rotatably supports a parking brake lever. The first latchet member and the second latchet member are arranged so that respective teeth thereof come into contact with each other at end surfaces facing in the direction of the axis of the rotating shaft when the parking brake lever is in an unlocked position. The first latchet member is moved toward the second latchet member by springs so that the respective teeth of the first latchet member and the second latchet member are engaged with each other when the parking brake lever is in a locked position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 1, 2010
    Publication date: March 10, 2011
    Inventors: Hiroshi FURUSE, Ikuo HARA, Rui MAEDA, Chihiro IIDA
  • Publication number: 20110056323
    Abstract: A parking brake lever which provides ease of recognition of a locked state of the parking brake lever and improves the arrangement of the parking brake lever around a handle bar. A parking brake lever includes a handle rear arm portion provided adjacent to a left handle bar rearward thereof in an unlocked position in which a parking brake caliper is in an unlocked state, and a handle upper arm portion provided adjacent to the left handle bar upward thereof in the unlocked position in which the parking brake caliper is in the unlocked state. A rotating shaft of the parking brake lever is provided in the handle rear arm portion that is substantially parallel to the direction of the axis of the left handle bar, so that the parking brake caliper can be operated into the locked state by pulling the parking brake lever upward.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 1, 2010
    Publication date: March 10, 2011
    Inventors: Hiroshi FURUSE, Ikuo HARA, Rui MAEDA, Chihiro IIDA, Manabu ICHIKAWA
  • Publication number: 20110056324
    Abstract: Disclosed is a steering column having an outer tube, an adjustment lever, a tilt bolt and a steering shaft. According to the present invention, force for supporting the outer tube is increased and strengthened at the time of tightening the adjustment lever, and the tilt bolt is coupled on the central axis of the steering shaft so that no bending is caused and the adjustment lever does not hit a driver on the knee when a vehicle collision occurs, whereby the collision safety of the vehicle can be improved, and the number of parts and steps for assembling the parts can be reduced.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 7, 2010
    Publication date: March 10, 2011
    Inventors: Jung Sik PARK, Kyung Tae Kwon
  • Publication number: 20110056325
    Abstract: A noise reduction apparatus for a shift cable, may include a mounting socket that is fixed to a shift lever mounting bracket, with an inner cable of the shift cable therethrough, a cable connection pipe that has one side connected to a shift lever-sided end of an outer cable of the shift cable, and a housing connection pipe that has one end elastically-coupled to a shift lever-sided end of the cable connection pipe with a predetermined distance therebetween by a first antivibration member in a damper housing and the other end thereof elastically-connected to the shift lever mounting bracket by a second antivibration member in the mounting socket.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 14, 2010
    Publication date: March 10, 2011
    Applicants: Hyundai Motor Company, Kia Motors Corporation, Daedong System Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Yangrae Cho, Jeehyuck Choi, Hochul Lee, Wonmin Lee
  • Publication number: 20110056326
    Abstract: A resistance mechanism and module for generating and applying a resistance force to a pedal. The resistance module includes a plunger adapted for movement in the interior of the module between rest and depressed positions in response to the application by the pedal of a compression force against the plunger. The plunger includes an exterior camming surface. An actuator is also located in the interior of the module and includes an exterior camming surface which abuts and is adapted to slide against the camming surface on the plunger in response to the movement of the plunger. A spring in the module abuts and is adapted to apply a biasing force against the actuator. The interaction between the camming surfaces on the plunger and the actuator generates a resistance force which is applied to the pedal.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 8, 2010
    Publication date: March 10, 2011
    Inventor: Murray Kaijala
  • Publication number: 20110056327
    Abstract: A tractor steer-by-braking pedal arrangement. The pedal arrangement has a central brake pedal connected on one side to a right side pedal, and on the other side to a left side pedal. The central brake pedal acts on a brake system to produce the desired braking action. Each of the two side pedals when foot-operated by the driver, generates an activating signal to activate an electronic brake system, which only activates the brake required to steer-by-braking in the desired direction.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 11, 2009
    Publication date: March 10, 2011
    Inventors: Franco Mazzucchi, Eugenio Sereni, Roberto Mazzucchi
  • Publication number: 20110056328
    Abstract: The present invention discloses a strengthening structure of a plastic casing of an elevating motor, and the casing of a transmission gear box of the elevating motor includes a front casing and a rear casing, both made of a light-weight plastic material, and a metal reinforced plate installed at a position of the casing with maximum exerted propping force and torque and perpendicular to a bushing to form a rigid support structure for propping and supporting the casing, such that a load can be supported uniformly by the whole piece of the metal reinforced plate to overcome the problem of cracking a contact surface easily in the prior art, and achieve the effects of reducing the overall weight, maintaining the mechanical strength, extending the using life and providing a smooth transmission.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 10, 2009
    Publication date: March 10, 2011
    Inventor: Chen-Hui Ko
  • Publication number: 20110056329
    Abstract: A gear housing for an aquatic vessel is adapted to be attached at an attachment site to an underside of a hull of the aquatic vessel. The gear housing includes at least one weakened region adapted to yield when the gear housing is rotated at the attachment site following an impact. A breakaway safety system includes such a gear housing, and a fracturable member for attaching the gear housing to the hull at the attachment site, wherein the weakened region is adapted to yield such that the fracturable member fractures. An aquatic vessel includes such a gear housing or such a breakaway safety system.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 22, 2008
    Publication date: March 10, 2011
    Applicant: AB Volvo Penta
    Inventors: Lars Sjöblom, Mathias Aström, Lennart Sellman, Mikael Asberg
  • Publication number: 20110056330
    Abstract: A multi-gear powershift transmission for a working machine, in particular a forklift truck, which has a driveshaft (2) driven by a torque converter (1) such that, by way of fixed wheels (8, 13, 18, 23), loose wheels (10, 15, 20, 27) and shift clutches (4, 9, 19) arranged on countershafts (7, 12, 22) in a first transmission, at least two forward gears and two reverse gears can be engaged. The powershift transmission can be supplemented with a further countershaft (24) having a fixed wheel (25), a clutch (26) and a loose wheel (27) in order to produce a second powershift transmission in which three gears in the forward driving direction and three gears in the reverse driving direction are engageable.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 23, 2009
    Publication date: March 10, 2011
    Applicant: ZF FRIEDRICHSHAFEN AG
    Inventors: Vladimir Muhlbach, Robert Morrison
  • Publication number: 20110056331
    Abstract: A method of recovering copper from a copper sulfide concentrate comprising a copper arsenic sulfosalt or a copper antimony sulfosalt, using pyrite as a catalyst. The concentrate and pyrite are added to an acidic sulfate leach solution. The copper is leached from the concentrate, in the presence of an oxygen-containing gas, under conditions whereby the pyrite is substantially unoxidized. The pyrite:copper sulfide ratio of the pyrite being added to the copper sulfide present in the concentrate being added is at least 1:3. The pyrite may be maintained at a concentration in the leach solution of at least 9 grams per liter. The leached copper is recovered from the solution by conventional methods.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 17, 2009
    Publication date: March 10, 2011
    Applicant: THE UNIVERSITY OF BRITISH COLUMBIA
    Inventors: David G. Dixon, Berny Rivera-Vasquez
  • Publication number: 20110056332
    Abstract: A process for heap leaching a laterite or said process including the steps of: a) providing a primary and a secondary heap, said primary heap comprising predominantly a nickel and cobalt containing sulfide or saprolitic type ore, and said secondary heap comprising predominantly a nickel and cobalt limonitic type ore; b) leaching the primary heap with a sulfuric acid solution to generate a solution that includes ferrous ions; and c) using said solution that includes the ferrous ion as the lixiviant to leach the secondary heap, to produce a pregnant leach solution that includes nickel, cobalt and manganese ions.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 24, 2008
    Publication date: March 10, 2011
    Inventor: Adam Sean Moroney
  • Publication number: 20110056333
    Abstract: An atmospheric leaching process for the recovery of a nickel and cobalt from a lateritic ore, said process including the steps: (a) preparing a slurry of the lateritic ore with saline or hypersaline water having a total dissolved solids (TDS) content greater than 30 g/L; (b) leaching the slurry of the lateritic ore with sulfuric acid at atmospheric pressure, (c) recovering nickel and cobalt from the resultant leachate.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 19, 2009
    Publication date: March 10, 2011
    Inventors: Houyuan Liu, Graham Andrew Reynolds
  • Publication number: 20110056334
    Abstract: A dynamometric tool having a longitudinal axis and capable of providing a tightening torque, includes: a head with a first housing arranged along the longitudinal axis and a second circular housing arranged along a transverse axis perpendicular to the longitudinal axis, the head being adapted for receiving a dowel in the second housing; a shaft to be received in the first housing, the shaft being capable of assuming a working position in which a first end thereof is located in the second housing for engaging with the dowel. In order to make the tool fully removable, the head and the first end of the shaft are arranged and sized so that the head and the shaft can assume a first relative orientation in which the shaft can slide freely relative to the head so that the head can be removed from the shaft, and a second relative orientation in which bearing members are arranged so as to maintain the shaft in the working position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 9, 2009
    Publication date: March 10, 2011
    Applicant: HADER SA
    Inventors: Philippe Miletto, Silver Gross
  • Publication number: 20110056335
    Abstract: A wrench includes a handle, a yoke, a shaft, a head, a mandrel, a first transmitting unit and a second transmitting unit. The shaft includes a first section securely connected to the handle and a second section rotationally inserted in the yoke. The head is pivotally connected to the yoke. The mandrel is inserted through the head. The first transmitting unit can be used to transmit a small torque to the mandrel from the handle spun relative to the yoke. The second transmitting unit can be used together with the first transmitting unit to transmit a large torque to the mandrel from the handle pivoted together with the yoke.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 8, 2009
    Publication date: March 10, 2011
    Inventor: Da-Sen LIN
  • Publication number: 20110056336
    Abstract: A push-type ratchet wrench may be easily operated. At least one end of a handle has a head, in which a driving body for rotating a workpiece and an engaging block capable of selectively switching the rotation direction of the driving body are provided. Also, a control member for actuating the engaging block is provided on the head. The control member includes a base disposed in the head, and an actuating block pivotally mounted on the base. The actuating block has an actuating sheet passing through the base and extending toward the engaging block. A clamping slot is formed at a location corresponding to the engaging block so that the actuating sheet can be clamped by the engaging block, and the user can press the actuating block leftward/rightward to achieve the object of switching and to prevent the conventional problems of easily breaking and uneasily actuating.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 2, 2009
    Publication date: March 10, 2011
    Inventor: Cheng-Han Lee
  • Publication number: 20110056337
    Abstract: A socket for a wrench comprises a fixed portion provided with a first fastener receiving aperture and a rotatable portion provided with a second fastener receiving aperture. The fixed and rotatable portions are disposed such that the first and second fastener receiving apertures are in overlying relationship to define a fastener receiving space and the rotatable portion is rotatable with respect to the fixed portion to adjust the fastener receiving space.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 23, 2007
    Publication date: March 10, 2011
    Applicant: AMERICAN GREASE STICK COMPANY
    Inventor: Nigel A. Buchanan
  • Publication number: 20110056338
    Abstract: The present invention discloses a contractible wrench structure including a handle and a rod body, and the handle includes a containing space for accommodating the rod body, and a resilient element is installed in the containing space for abutting the rod body, and the handle includes a fixing element penetrated through a side wall of the handle, and the rod body includes a groove for allowing a peg of the fixing element to slide, and the groove is composed of a slide section, a first guide section, a second guide section, a first position limiting slot, and a second position limiting slot. With the guide of the groove, an extending or contracting status of the rod body can be adjusted.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 7, 2009
    Publication date: March 10, 2011
    Inventor: Chih-Ching Hsieh
  • Publication number: 20110056339
    Abstract: A connecting rod assembly comprises a connecting element, a pivot element, a connecting rod, a spring and an engaging element. The connecting element is provided at both ends thereof with a connecting portion and a driving portion. The pivot element is provided at a first end thereof with a connecting pillar formed with a pivot hole, and the connecting pillar is further formed in an outer surface thereof with a moving hole in communication with the pivot hole. The connecting rod has a first end thereof connected to the connecting element, and a second end of the connecting rod is pivotally disposed in the pivot hole. The connecting rod is formed with an evasion groove for cooperating with the engaging element. The spring is disposed in the driving groove with both ends thereof pushed against an inner surface of the driving groove and the connecting element.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 3, 2010
    Publication date: March 10, 2011
    Inventor: Cheng-Wei SU
  • Publication number: 20110056340
    Abstract: A screw driving member of the present invention is driven by a power tool to turn a nut with a polygonal head and a slot on its top. The screw driving member includes a shaft, a driver head and a biasing device. The shaft has an axial hole and a fitting hole. The driver head is inserted into the axial hole of the shaft for reciprocation but rotation. The biasing device urges the driver head to have a coupling end out of the shaft. In engagement of the nut, the coupling end enters the slot of the nut, and then the driver head will be turned automatically that the coupling end may fully enter the slot. At the same time, the shaft is turned also that the fitting hole may be engaged with the head of the nut when the screw driving member is pressed downward.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 9, 2009
    Publication date: March 10, 2011
    Applicant: MOBILETRON ELECTRONICS CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Ming-Hung HSU
  • Publication number: 20110056341
    Abstract: A torque adjustable sleeve assembly includes a first part with first teeth in the first end thereof and a second part has one end inserted into the first end of the first part. The second part includes second teeth which are engaged with the first teeth. A rod passes through the first and second parts and two springs are mounted to the rod and located in the two parts respectively. A movable member is threadedly connected to an end of the rod and adjusts the compression of the two springs to adjust an engaging force between the first and second teeth. The second part includes a driving hole to be connected with a tool bit or screw unit. The second part is made of plastic material so as to protect the tool bit or the screw unit to be tightened or loosened.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 10, 2009
    Publication date: March 10, 2011
    Inventor: JIN-TSAI LAI