Patents Issued in November 22, 2012
  • Publication number: 20120291522
    Abstract: A simple gas sensor for detecting a concentration of a detected gas with high accuracy, in which a thermal interference can hardly occur between a normal detection element pair and a reference detection element pair, is provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 18, 2012
    Publication date: November 22, 2012
    Applicant: HONDA MOTOR CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Shunji TSUKABAYASHI, Hidetoshi OISHI, Kazuhiro OKAJIMA
  • Publication number: 20120291523
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a kit for assessing the fragrance intensity of a fabric care product and a method for assessing the fragrance intensity imparted by a fabric care product comprising perfume microcapsules. The kit works instantly and ensures steady assessing conditions without requiring complicated instruments or professional operators.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 16, 2012
    Publication date: November 22, 2012
    Inventors: Citra (Wijaya) Ng, Shaokun Lin, Joseph (Tan) Chio, Ricardo Leal Macias
  • Publication number: 20120291524
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a device for analysing a cylinder wise performance of an internal combustion engine, comprising ion current measurement means that are arranged to measure an ion current in a engine and that are also arranged to produce a first signal corresponding to a measurement performed by said ion current measurement means, and also comprising an amplifier that is connected to said ion current measurement means and that is arranged to receive and amplify said first signal in order to produce an amplified signal, and further also comprising first analysing means for analysing said amplified signal for detecting an indication of a knock event in the engine, wherein said amplifier is a variable-gain amplifier and that said device further comprises second analysis means that is arranged to receive and analyse said amplified signal and to adjust a gain of said amplifier. The invention also relates to a method for analysing a performance of a engine.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 18, 2011
    Publication date: November 22, 2012
    Applicant: SEM AKTIEBOLAG
    Inventor: Jorgen Bengtsson
  • Publication number: 20120291525
    Abstract: A test pressurisation device (100) for hose (1) includes a first pair of press/driving rolls (10, 12) between which the hose can be inserted, and a second pair of press/driving rolls (20, 22) between which the hose can be inserted. The first pair of press/driving rolls (10, 12) is arranged on a distance from the second pair of press/driving rolls (20, 22). Further each pair of press/driving rolls is arranged for pressing the hose together between the rolls in conjunction with pressurisation with a medium such as water so that a limited part of the hose, which is located between the first and the second pair of press/driving rolls, can be held pressurised and control of the hoses or its couplings tightness is admitted. Furthermore, while sections of the hose are held pressurised between the pairs of press/driving rolls, the same pairs of press/driving rolls are feeding the hose forward, thus checking the hoses tightness in a continuously moving section approach.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 17, 2010
    Publication date: November 22, 2012
    Applicant: Allgotech AB
    Inventors: Per-Arne Fritjofsson, Anders Ahlén
  • Publication number: 20120291526
    Abstract: Disclosed are aqueous chemical leak detection cables that provide protection to sensor wires by using a conductive polymer coating that is resistant to corrosion by aqueous chemicals. In addition, non-conductive, liquid pervious layers may surround one or more of the sensor wires to assist in preventing false detection of a aqueous chemical leak as a result of various non-liquid contaminants. The non-conductive, liquid pervious layer may comprise braided, non-hygroscopic, non-conductive fibers, or a continuous, non-conductive pervious coating.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 3, 2012
    Publication date: November 22, 2012
    Inventor: Donald M. Raymond
  • Publication number: 20120291527
    Abstract: A method and a device for the measurement of fluid-mechanically effective parameters of a fluid, with a fluid pump which comprises a delivery element (2) which is mounted in a magnet bearing (10, 10a, 11, 11a), according to the invention, envisages the delivery element (2) of the fluid pump being excited into an oscillation by way of an excitation device (16, 44), wherein the oscillation parameters as well as, as the case may be, the oscillation behaviour is measured, and parameters of the fluid are determined from this.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 30, 2010
    Publication date: November 22, 2012
    Inventors: Kurt Graichen, Andreas Arndt, Peter Nuesser
  • Publication number: 20120291528
    Abstract: The oscillating velocity of an oscillating body in a fluid to be measured is positively fed back, so as to activate an actuator. The oscillating state of the oscillating body is monitored while making a velocity feedback gain increase. The velocity feedback gain when the oscillating body has oscillated is obtained as an oscillation limit gain at the oscillation limit, and this oscillation limit gain is used as a viscosity equivalent value representing viscosity of the measured fluid.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 7, 2011
    Publication date: November 22, 2012
    Applicant: National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science and Technology
    Inventors: Masaharu Kuroda, Hiroshi Yabuno
  • Publication number: 20120291529
    Abstract: A method for detecting the blending level of biodiesel fuel in an internal combustion engine includes setting at least two post injection fuel quantity reference values respectively for known biodiesel blending percentage levels. A post injection fuel quantity value is evaluated and is compared with the at least two post injection fuel quantity reference value. A predetermined correlation set of values between the post injection fuel quantity value and a biodiesel blending level expressed by biodiesel percentage with respect to the petro-diesel is used to determine the biodiesel blending level.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 17, 2012
    Publication date: November 22, 2012
    Applicant: GM GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS LLC
    Inventors: Claudio CIARAVINO, Giovanna Massetti
  • Publication number: 20120291530
    Abstract: A concentration detecting apparatus that detects the alcohol concentration of an alcohol blended fuel includes frequency controlling means that controls the frequency of an alternating-current voltage applied between a pair of electrodes spaced apart from each other. A first resistance constituent value between the electrodes is detected by applying an alternating-current voltage at a first frequency at which a capacitance constituent value of the impedance is zero. Similarly, a second resistance constituent value between said electrodes is detected by applying an alternating-current voltage at a second frequency different from the first frequency at which the capacitance constituent value of the impedance is zero. The alcohol concentration is calculated based on the difference between the first resistance constituent value and the second resistance constituent value.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 14, 2010
    Publication date: November 22, 2012
    Applicant: TOYOTA JIDOSHA KABUSHIKI KAISHA
    Inventor: Keiichiro Aoki
  • Publication number: 20120291531
    Abstract: Provided is a liquid chromatograph of a gradient type capable of promoting the mixture of a plurality of solvents without increasing flow passage volume. To this end, the liquid chromatograph includes: a Pump configured to suck a plurality of solvents and feed the solvents to a sample injection device, a separation column that separates a sample to be analyzed into components; and a detector that detects a component of the sample fed from the separation column. The Pump is configured to suck the plurality of solvents through an intake port and feed the solvents to a sample injection device through a discharge port and mix the plurality of solvents at between the intake port and the discharge port. The Pump further includes a cylinder and a plunger that reciprocates inside the cylinder, and the cylinder has an inner wall provided with a recess to generate a whirl in the plurality of solvents.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 25, 2012
    Publication date: November 22, 2012
    Inventors: Daisuke Akieda, Tomohiro Shoji
  • Publication number: 20120291532
    Abstract: A method of determining a condition of clot carryout from a sample container containing a sample fluid is disclosed. During aspiration of a fluid sample (e.g., blood), a level sensor, such as a capacitance sensor, is used to measure ascending and descending liquid level readings. A difference between the ascending and descending liquid level readings may be compared to a predetermined threshold. Non-ideal conditions, such as a clot carryout condition wherein a clot is carried out of the sample container on the exterior surface of the probe may be detected thereby. Systems and apparatus for carrying out the method are provided, as are other aspects.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 21, 2011
    Publication date: November 22, 2012
    Applicant: SIEMENS HEALTHCARE DIAGNOSTICS INC.
    Inventors: Alexander Vidlak Evers, Bridgett Angela Harris, Alexander Openstone, Jeffrey Kenneth Parmer
  • Publication number: 20120291533
    Abstract: A converting map for an area of a backward air-flow is set based on a relationship between an output and a flow-rate, which are obtained in an air flow in which pulsation including the backward air-flow is generated. The backward air-flow has a dynamic property. The converting map of the present disclosure has a conversion characteristic, which is close to a characteristic in the backward air-flow. Accordingly, it is not necessary to correct the converting map by complicated processes and thereby accuracy of measurement for the area of the backward air-flow is increased.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 16, 2012
    Publication date: November 22, 2012
    Applicant: DENSO CORPORATION
    Inventor: Noboru KITAHARA
  • Publication number: 20120291534
    Abstract: A method for estimating a cylinder air charge for an internal combustion engine includes determining a first volumetric efficiency corresponding to engine operation with an open exhaust gas recirculation valve, determining a second volumetric efficiency corresponding to engine operation with a closed exhaust gas recirculation valve, determining a cylinder air charge using a selected one of the first and second volumetric efficiencies.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 17, 2011
    Publication date: November 22, 2012
    Applicant: GM GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS LLC
    Inventors: Yue-Yun Wang, Ibrahim Haskara
  • Publication number: 20120291535
    Abstract: An oil mist detector test rig including an oil container, an aerosol generator, an oil mist detector, and a collection unit. The aerosol generator generates fluid aerosol in the oil container. The oil mist detector is configured to provide a first reading based on a concentration of the generated fluid aerosol in the oil container. Additionally, the collection unit is configured to provide a second reading based on the concentration of the generated fluid aerosol in the oil container.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 20, 2011
    Publication date: November 22, 2012
    Applicant: Caterpillar Inc.
    Inventors: Ronald Paul Maloney, Eric Nathan Lucas, Joseph George Chambers
  • Publication number: 20120291536
    Abstract: A state of an oil pressure is determined based on combination of activation of an oil pressure switch and information of the temperature detected by a temperature sensor and an engine speed detected by an engine speed sensor such that determination of the oil-pressure state is conducted from a lower engine-speed range in a case in which the temperature detected by the temperature sensor is relatively low, compared with a case in which the temperature detected by the temperature sensor is relatively high. Accordingly, the oil-pressure state can be properly determined not only in a high engine-speed range but in a low engine-speed range, by utilizing the simple oil pressure switch activated to the conductive state in response to the oil pressure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 18, 2012
    Publication date: November 22, 2012
    Applicant: MAZDA MOTOR CORPORATION
    Inventors: Hisashi OKAZAWA, Masaaki SATO, Hirofumi OHMORI, Nobuhiro FUJII, Yuji WAKIDA, Tomokuni KUSUNOKI
  • Publication number: 20120291537
    Abstract: A system for measuring physical parameters of a tire, according to one embodiment of the present invention comprises a sensor layer and a circuit layer. The sensor layer is communicatively coupled to the circuit layer. The sensor layer is configured as a first thin film and embedded in the tire. The sensor layer provides a signal related to a physical parameter of the tire. The circuit layer is configured as a second thin film and embedded in the tire. The circuit layer processes the signal provided by the sensor layer.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 19, 2011
    Publication date: November 22, 2012
    Applicants: TOYOTA MOTOR CORPORATION, TOYOTA INFOTECHNOLOGY CENTER CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Makoto Honda, Takeshi Bessho
  • Publication number: 20120291538
    Abstract: A system and method for volumetric metering on a sample processing device. The system can include a metering reservoir, and a waste reservoir positioned in fluid communication with a first end of the metering reservoir to catch excess liquid from the metering reservoir that exceeds a selected volume. The system can further include a capillary valve in fluid communication with the second end of the metering reservoir to inhibit liquid from exiting the metering reservoir until desired. The method can include metering the liquid by rotating the sample processing device to exert a first force on the liquid that is insufficient to move the liquid into the capillary valve, and rotating the sample processing device to exert a second force on the liquid that is greater than the first force to move the metered volume of the liquid to the process chamber via the capillary valve.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 18, 2012
    Publication date: November 22, 2012
    Inventors: Peter D. Ludowise, David A. Whitman, Feffrey D. Smith
  • Publication number: 20120291539
    Abstract: A vortex-controlled variable flow resistance device ideal for use in a backpressure tool for advancing drill string in extended reach downhole operations. The characteristics of the pressure waves generated by the device are controlled by the growth and decay of vortices in the vortex chamber(s) of a flow path. The flow path includes a switch, such as a bi-stable fluidic switch, for reversing the direction of the flow in the vortex chamber. The flow path may include multiple vortex chambers, and the device may include multiple flow paths. A hardened insert in the outlet of the vortex chamber resists erosion. This device generates backpressures of short duration and slower frequencies approaching the resonant frequency of the drill string, which maximizes axial motion in the drill sting and weight on the bit. Additionally, fluid pulses produced by the tool enhance debris removal ahead of the bit.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 22, 2012
    Publication date: November 22, 2012
    Applicant: Thru Tubing Solutions, Inc.
    Inventors: Roger L. Schultz, Michael L. Connell, Andrew M. Ferguson
  • Publication number: 20120291540
    Abstract: A device for dispensing fluid to a patient and indicating a fluid flow condition. The device includes a reservoir configured to provide a source of fluid under pressure. A continuous flow path in fluid communication with the source of fluid provides a continuous and substantially constant flow rate of fluid from the source to a patient. The device further includes at least one flow detector in fluid communication with the continuous flow path. The flow detector is configured to provide a signal that the flow rate of the fluid in the continuous flow path is different from a predetermined flow rate, thereby indicating a fluid flow condition.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 17, 2012
    Publication date: November 22, 2012
    Inventors: Dominic J. Cooke, Siddharth Desai
  • Publication number: 20120291541
    Abstract: A digital field-induction water-level intelligent sensing system is provided. The digitalized intelligent field-induction field technology is utilized in the sensing system, thus the problem of water scale formation on the water-level sensors when applied in the severe environment and the problem of sensing system failure easily happening in the high temperature and high humidity environment are solved. The application of the field-induction technology enables the sensing system to detect the water level without electrical connection or mechanical connection, thus the problems of the sensor failure or inaccurate water-level detection caused by the water scale formation are avoided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 15, 2010
    Publication date: November 22, 2012
    Inventors: Dafan Liu, Weixin Shi, Zhihui Zhou
  • Publication number: 20120291542
    Abstract: A sensor device includes a detector portion, plural metal terminals that transmit a detection signal from the detector portion, and a housing portion, which integrally supports the detector portion and metal terminals, formed from resin, leading end portions of the plural metal terminals configuring connector terminals, and the plural metal terminals being disposed with at least one portion thereof aligned when seen from the axial direction of the connector terminals, wherein protruding portions protruding in a direction differing from the axial direction of the connector terminals are provided on the metal terminals.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 23, 2012
    Publication date: November 22, 2012
    Applicant: MITSUBISHI ELECTRIC CORPORATION
    Inventors: Hiroshi FUJITA, Mitsuhiro ONO, Hidenori MATANO, Hiroshi KOBAYASHI, Shigeki TSUJII
  • Publication number: 20120291543
    Abstract: A microsystem, e.g., a micromechanical sensor, has a first cavity which is sealed off from the surroundings and a second cavity which is sealed off from the surroundings. The first cavity is bounded by a first bond joint and the second cavity is bounded by a second bond joint. Either the first bond joint or the second bond joint is a eutectic bond joint or a diffusion-soldered joint.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 26, 2012
    Publication date: November 22, 2012
    Inventors: Christian RETTIG, Axel Franke, Ando Feyh
  • Publication number: 20120291544
    Abstract: An activity meter includes an accelerometer for detecting movement of a body and a control unit connected to the accelerometer. The control unit determines segments corresponding to single cycles of body movement based on a detection output from the accelerometer, and based on a difference between a maximum value and a minimum value in the detection output from the accelerometer that correspond to the determined segments of the single cycles, specifies a type of activity performed in a predetermined period that includes the segments.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 2, 2012
    Publication date: November 22, 2012
    Applicant: OMRON HEALTHCARE CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Yusuke KAWABE
  • Publication number: 20120291545
    Abstract: A sensed element is disclosed for incorporation into an apparatus that includes a rotatable shaft. The sensed element includes a base portion mounted directly on the shaft so as to rotate with the shaft, at least one sensor-detectible feature coupled to the base portion, for use in measuring a rotational speed of the shaft, and a projection extending from the base portion and engageable with a portion of the apparatus other than the shaft to limit movement of the element along the shaft.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 31, 2012
    Publication date: November 22, 2012
    Applicant: Ford Global Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: John Edward LeMerise, Chad Michael Korte, Patrick Meloche, John Patrick Joyce
  • Publication number: 20120291546
    Abstract: One inertial sensor detects an acceleration in a driving direction as well as an angular rate about one axis and an acceleration in a detecting direction at the same time. A driving-direction acceleration detecting unit is provided to members vibrating in mass members on the left and right via an elastic body. In this manner, when an acceleration is applied in the driving direction, the mass members on the left and right normally vibrated with a same amplitude and in opposite phases have displacement amounts in a same phase, and the driving-direction acceleration detecting unit detects the displacement amounts in the same phase as a capacitance change, thereby detecting the acceleration in the driving direction.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 31, 2012
    Publication date: November 22, 2012
    Inventors: Heewon JEONG, Hiroshi Fukuda
  • Publication number: 20120291547
    Abstract: There is provided an angular velocity sensor, including: a flexible part connecting a fixing part to an oscillation unit; a driving unit formed on the flexible part or the oscillation unit to oscillate the oscillation unit; a sensing unit formed on the flexible part or the oscillation unit to sense a displacement of the oscillation unit according to an angular velocity input; a control piezoelectric element formed on the flexible part to control rigidity of a motion of the oscillation unit; and an impedance element electrically connected to the control piezoelectric element to apply impedance to the control piezoelectric element.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 23, 2011
    Publication date: November 22, 2012
    Inventors: Jong Woon KIM, Mao Minyao, Lin LIWEI, Won Kyu JEUNG
  • Publication number: 20120291548
    Abstract: A gyro sensor according to the invention includes a first mass portion including a first detection portion, a second mass portion including a second detection portion, first drive portions vibrating the first mass portion in a direction of a first axis, and a force conversion portion fixed to an anchor portion. The first mass portion and the second mass portion are connected with the force conversion portion. The force conversion portion is displaced with the anchor portion as an axis, and vibrates the second mass portion in a direction of a second axis crossing the first axis in a plane view.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 17, 2012
    Publication date: November 22, 2012
    Applicant: SEIKO EPSON CORPORATION
    Inventor: Kei KANEMOTO
  • Publication number: 20120291549
    Abstract: An angular velocity sensor including a drive extension mode. In one aspect, an angular rate sensor includes a base and at least three masses disposed substantially in a plane parallel to the base, the masses having a center of mass. At least one actuator drives the masses in an extension mode, such that in the extension mode the masses move in the plane simultaneously away or simultaneously towards the center of mass. At least one transducer senses at least one Coriolis force resulting from motion of the masses and angular velocity about at least one input axis of the sensor. Additional embodiments can include a linkage that constrains the masses to move in the extension mode.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 1, 2012
    Publication date: November 22, 2012
    Applicant: INVENSENSE, INC.
    Inventors: Joseph SEEGER, Bruno BOROVIC
  • Publication number: 20120291550
    Abstract: An oscillation type inertia force sensor includes an oscillator, an oscillation circuit unit, and a detection circuit unit. The oscillation circuit unit functions as a self oscillation circuit of a closed loop with the oscillator as a resonant element, and includes an AGC circuit. The AGC circuit includes a VGA circuit, a comparison circuit comparing a predetermined reference voltage with a voltage of the monitor signal to output a control signal based on the compared result, and a pulse width modulation circuit modulating the control signal to a pulse width modulation signal. Based on the pulse width modulation signal, the driving signal is modulated with the output of the VGA circuit switched between an ON state and OFF state to control the degree of the amplification factor of the VGA circuit.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 8, 2012
    Publication date: November 22, 2012
    Applicants: ASAHI KASEI MICRODEVICES CORPORATION, MURATA MANUFACTURING CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Yoshitaka KATO, Akira MORI, Makoto NARITA, Yoshihiko KOIZUMI
  • Publication number: 20120291551
    Abstract: Techniques are provided for reducing mount vibration in an inertial rate sensor (IRS). For example, if oscillation in an IRS's vibratory members, vibrating along a first axis, cause displacement in the IRS's mount along a second axis, the vibratory members can be aligned so that the vibratory members have some component of movement along the second axis during oscillation. This component of movement can help reduce the displacement of the IRS's mount along the second axis. It can further reduce sensitivity to changes in the boundary conditions of an IRS (e.g., vibrations and other movements at the mount from forces external to the IRS). Vibratory members further can have portions of increased mass at the vibratory members' tips, which can impact the alignment of the vibratory members. These examples, however, are not exhaustive.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 28, 2011
    Publication date: November 22, 2012
    Applicant: Custom Sensors & Technologies, Inc.
    Inventor: Robert H. Moore
  • Publication number: 20120291552
    Abstract: (A) first data for defect amount estimation for the guided wave of a first frequency is obtained, the data indicating a relationship among amplitude of the reflected wave, a defect cross-sectional area and a defect width. (B) second data for defect amount estimation for the guided wave of a second frequency is obtained, the data indicating a relationship among amplitude of the reflected wave, a defect cross-sectional area and a defect width. (C) a guided wave of the first frequency is generated, and amplitude of a reflected wave is detected as first amplitude. (D) a guided wave of the second frequency is generated, and amplitude of a reflected wave is detected as second amplitude. (E) on a basis of the first and second data and the first and second amplitude, a defect cross-sectional area and a defect width of the defect part are estimated.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 12, 2010
    Publication date: November 22, 2012
    Applicant: IHI INSPECTION AND INSTRUMENTATION CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Koki Daikoku, Masato Yoshizaki, Shuichi Sato
  • Publication number: 20120291553
    Abstract: The invention relates to a method and a device for detecting, measuring and evaluating defects in an object and/or specific material property of an object using a phased array wave technique. The device comprises of a phased array transceiver probe/source and control unit for use in a phased array wave technique for transmitting and receiving wave signals on and from the area to be inspected. The phased array source is divided into a plurality of virtual probes/sources and each virtual probe/source comprises of plurality of elements arranged sequentially but without phasing for excitation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 28, 2011
    Publication date: November 22, 2012
    Applicant: INDIAN INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY HT P.O.
    Inventors: Krishnan Balasubramaniam, Saivathan Alavudeen, Chitti Venkatta Krishnamurthy
  • Publication number: 20120291554
    Abstract: A heat-resistant ultrasonic sensor forms a piezo-electric ceramics film with a thickness of 0.5 mm or smaller and a Curie point of 200° C. or higher on a flexible metal plate. A thin metal film that is an electrode is attached to a top surface of the piezo-electric ceramics film and a metal wire mesh covers the thin metal film and is attached to a top surface of the thin metal film. A core of a heat-resistant coaxial cable is connected to the metal wire mesh at a connection point. The heat-resistant coaxial cable is fixed to the thin metal plate with a metal fixing member that is a ground portion. An electric insulating cover is attached to the thin metal plate and covers the piezo-electric ceramics film, the thin metal film, the metal wire mesh, the connection point, the fixing member, and the core of the coaxial cable.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 17, 2012
    Publication date: November 22, 2012
    Applicant: Hitachi-GE Nuclear Energy, Ltd.
    Inventors: Atsushi BABA, Yoshinori Musha, Masahiro Koike
  • Publication number: 20120291555
    Abstract: According to one aspect of the invention, a transducer apparatus is provided that includes a core section, a transducer disposed in the core section, the transducer configured to transmit or receive signals and a tubular member mounted to the core section for relative rotation, wherein a fluid is disposed in the tubular member. The apparatus further includes a weight reduction device disposed inside the tubular member to occupy a volume inside the tubular member, wherein the weight reduction device is configured to provide a transmission path from the transducer to the tubular member via the fluid.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 16, 2011
    Publication date: November 22, 2012
    Applicant: GENERAL ELECTRIC COMPANY
    Inventors: Dane Eugene Hackenberger, Robert Charles Shaffer
  • Publication number: 20120291556
    Abstract: An acoustic navigation system includes a vessel and an interrogation unit towed behind the vessel below the surface of the water, a tail acoustic transponder trailing behind the interrogation unit, and a pair of surface acoustic transponders towed behind the vessel on the surface of the body of water. The interrogation unit generates an acoustic interrogation signal and receives responses from each of the tail acoustic transponder and the surface acoustic transponders from which it triangulates its position. The surface acoustic transponders may further include GPS receivers for receiving positioning information from GPS satellites. Additional acoustic transponders on instruments located on the floor of the body of water respond to the interrogation signal to allow triangulation of the location of the instruments.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 1, 2012
    Publication date: November 22, 2012
    Applicant: THE REGENTS OF THE UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA
    Inventors: Steven C. Constable, Kerry W. Key
  • Publication number: 20120291557
    Abstract: A method is described for producing a pressure sensor assembly, the pressure sensor assembly having a sensor housing element having a pressure sensor and a base housing element, which have a continuous recess accommodating the pressure sensor and are welded to each other. It is provided that, after the welding, in the area of the welding connection, the recess of the base housing element and/or the sensor housing element is enlarged by material removal. A pressure sensor assembly is also described.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 19, 2010
    Publication date: November 22, 2012
    Inventors: Markus Ledermann, Ralf Kaiser, Oliver Stoll, Bernhard Panhoelzl, Christian Roesser, Falk Rueth
  • Publication number: 20120291558
    Abstract: An irreversible pressure indicator, comprising a sealed vessel forming a fluid chamber and at least one indicating chamber; an indicating material contained within the fluid chamber, said material capable of being acted upon by a pressure force; and a gas contained within the indicating chamber, said gas capable of being displaced or compressed by said indicating material, and a method for using the same.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 16, 2012
    Publication date: November 22, 2012
    Inventors: Robert Parker, Daniel J. Volk
  • Publication number: 20120291559
    Abstract: Some embodiments of the present disclosure relate to improved package assemblies for pressure sensing elements. Rather than leaving a pressure sensing element unabashedly exposed to the ambient environment in a manner that makes it susceptible to damage from stray wires, dirt, and the like; the improved package assemblies disclosed herein include a cover that helps form an enclosure around the pressure sensing element. The cover includes a fluid-flow channel with a blocking member arranged therein. The fluid-flow channel puts the pressure sensing element in fluid communication with the external environment so pressure measurements can be taken, while the blocking member helps protect the pressure sensing element from the external environment (e.g., stray wires and dirt to some extent). In this way, the package assemblies disclosed herein help promote more accurate and reliable pressure measurements than previous implementations.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 19, 2011
    Publication date: November 22, 2012
    Inventors: James William Sterling, Steven Gross
  • Publication number: 20120291560
    Abstract: A pressure transducer comprising a corrosion resistant metal diaphragm, having an active region, and capable of deflecting when a force is applied to the diaphragm; and a piezoresistive silicon-on-insulator sensor array disposed on a single substrate, the substrate secured to the diaphragm, the sensor array having a first outer sensor near an edge of the diaphragm at a first location and on the active region, a second outer sensor near an edge of the diaphragm at a second location and on the active region, and at least one center sensor substantially overlying a center of the diaphragm, the sensors connected in a bridge array to provide an output voltage proportional to the force applied to the diaphragm. The sensors are dielectrically isolated from the substrate.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 6, 2012
    Publication date: November 22, 2012
    Applicant: Kulite Semiconductor Products, Inc.
    Inventors: ANTHONY D. KURTZ, Nora Kurtz
  • Publication number: 20120291561
    Abstract: The apparatus mounts on a high pressure pipe and moves a witness coupon into and out of the pipe. A coupon holder assembly is secured to a driver. A coupon rod is engaged within the coupon holder assembly and the driver, wherein, an upper end of the coupon rod is engaged with the driver and a lower end of the coupon rod is positioned within the coupon holder assembly but may be driven in translation downwardly and out of the coupon holder assembly. A clamp may be engaged with the coupon rod securing it in a fixed position when the coupon rod is not being moved. A ball valve is used to isolate the apparatus from the high pressure pipe, and once isolated, a bleed valve is used to vent to atmospheric.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 17, 2012
    Publication date: November 22, 2012
    Inventors: Willie V. Evans, Gary K. Evans
  • Publication number: 20120291562
    Abstract: An electromagnetic flow meter provided with a resin lining portion in which resin is lined in a measuring pipe by pressure molding, including the measuring pipe to flow liquid to be measured, a lining locking frame provided in the measuring pipe composed of a cylindrical plate with openings and a plurality of divided belt-like ring plates, and the resin lining portion formed by embedding the lining locking frame. Here, in case of pressure molding the resin lining portion, the resin to be lined can be filled easily in gaps between the measuring pipe and the lining locking frame via gaps formed by a first gap provided between the inner face of the measuring pipe and the outer circumference face of the cylindrical plate with openings and second gaps of the adjacent divided belt-like ring plates in the outer circumference direction of the measuring pipe.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 2, 2012
    Publication date: November 22, 2012
    Applicant: KABUSHIKI KAISHA TOSHIBA
    Inventor: Takuya IIJIMA
  • Publication number: 20120291563
    Abstract: An article of footwear includes an upper member and a sole structure, with a sensor system connected to the sole structure. The sensor system includes a plurality of sensors that are configured for detecting forces exerted by a user's foot on the sensor. Each sensor includes two electrodes that are in communication with a force sensitive resistive material. The electrodes and the force sensitive resistive material may have multi-lobed shapes. Additionally, the sensor system may be provided on an insert that may form a sole member of the article of footwear. The insert may have slits therethrough, and may have a defined peripheral shape.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 17, 2012
    Publication date: November 22, 2012
    Applicant: NIKE, INC.
    Inventors: Allan M. Schrock, Andrew A. Owings, Michael S. Amos, Anthony C. Dean
  • Publication number: 20120291564
    Abstract: An article of footwear includes an upper member and a sole structure, with a sensor system connected to the sole structure. The sensor system includes a plurality of sensors that are configured for detecting forces exerted by a user's foot on the sensor. Each sensor includes two electrodes that are in communication with a force sensitive resistive material. Additionally, the sensor system may be provided on an insert that may form a sole member of the article of footwear. The insert may include an airflow system that includes one or more air chambers in communication with one or more air reservoirs through air passages extending therebetween. The insert may also have a multi-layered structure, with the airflow system provided between the layers.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 17, 2012
    Publication date: November 22, 2012
    Applicant: NIKE, INC.
    Inventors: Michael S. Amos, Andrew A. Owings, Allan M. Schrock, Anthony C. Dean
  • Publication number: 20120291565
    Abstract: A system and method for valving on a sample processing device. The system can include a valve chamber, a process chamber, and a valve septum located between the valve chamber and the process chamber. The system can further include a fluid pathway in fluid communication with an inlet of the valve chamber, wherein the fluid pathway is configured to inhibit a liquid from entering the valve chamber and collecting adjacent the valve septum when the valve septum is in a closed configuration. The method can include rotating the sample processing device to exert a first force on the liquid that is insufficient to move the liquid into the valve chamber; forming an opening in the valve septum; and rotating the sample processing device to exert a second force on the liquid to move the liquid into the valve chamber.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 18, 2012
    Publication date: November 22, 2012
    Inventors: Peter D. Ludowise, Jeffrey D. Smith
  • Publication number: 20120291566
    Abstract: An assembly capable of being disposed in a subterranean bore for obtaining a fluid sample is described. The assembly can include an apparatus having a sample chamber and a housing encasing the sample chamber and providing a pressure source. The pressure source can be disposed of in an annulus defined by the sample chamber and the housing. The assembly can be attached to a slick line or wire line and conveyed into a wellbore.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 19, 2011
    Publication date: November 22, 2012
    Applicant: HALLIBURTON ENERGY SERVICES, INC.
    Inventors: Vincent Paul Zeller, Paul David Ringgenberg, Scott Luke Miller, Cyrus Aspi Irani
  • Publication number: 20120291567
    Abstract: A handheld electronic pipette including several features aimed at improving ease of use, including a color dot matrix display, an intuitive thumb-operated two-axis controller, and multifunction soft buttons adjacent to the display. A simple and consistent user interface facilitates easy access to various modes of operation, including a manual pipetting mode and a remote mode.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 17, 2011
    Publication date: November 22, 2012
    Inventors: William D. Homberg, Michael C. Schmittdiel, Haakon T. Magnussen, Andrew Vainshtein, Thomas Allen Bell, Vintory L. Blake Moore
  • Publication number: 20120291568
    Abstract: Sampling arrangement adapted for extracting a fluid sample from a fluid flowing in a flow path (13). The arrangement comprises a sampling valve (110), such as a ball valve, comprising an outer body and an inner body rotationally supported within it. The inner body is rotationally supported about a rotation axis and comprises a cavity (119) with a first opening (119b) adapted to be rotated into and out of fluid connection with the flowing fluid, and a second opening (119c) which faces in a direction parallel to the rotation axis of the inner rotating body.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 4, 2011
    Publication date: November 22, 2012
    Inventor: Eivind S. Gransæther
  • Publication number: 20120291569
    Abstract: An instrumented pig comprises a foam body having an outer surface and an inner cavity in which, in use, is located a sealed unit housing at least a part of a parameter measurement apparatus configured to measure at least one parameter from which the extent of deflection of the outer surface of the foam body may be derived, the sealed unit including at least one sensor configured to generate an output signal representative of the at least one measured parameter.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 30, 2010
    Publication date: November 22, 2012
    Applicant: PIPELINE INNOVATIONS LIMITED
    Inventors: Rennie Hill, David Thompson, Peter Ward
  • Publication number: 20120291570
    Abstract: A method for assembling a sensor assembly includes providing a sensing device configured to measure at least one variable. The method also includes at least partially enclosing a magnetic material within an enclosure. At least a portion of the enclosure is manufactured from a material having a permeability that facilitates forming a magnetic field therein. The method also includes coupling the sensing device to a first portion of the enclosure. The enclosure includes at least one second portion that is movable with respect to the first portion of the enclosure such that a magnetic coupling force is induced external to the enclosure to facilitate coupling the sensor assembly to a magnetic surface.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 20, 2011
    Publication date: November 22, 2012
    Inventors: Jacob John Kittleson, Shankar Chandrasekaran, Munish Vishwas Inamdar
  • Publication number: 20120291571
    Abstract: Disclosed is a combination of six substantially identical interconnected rotating masses, with a pair each of the rotating masses being configured to rotate in one of each of the three planes (X, Y, and Z). Regardless of the orientation of the six masses, each pair of the six interconnected rotating masses may share substantially the same center of gravity and generate a separate yet interactive kinetic energy and angular momentum in each of the three planes, thereby providing resistance to rotational forces from external sources. This is known as “equal force presence.” In one embodiment, the rotating masses are ring-like masses. In alternative embodiment, the rotating masses are solid masses, similar to flywheels.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 4, 2012
    Publication date: November 22, 2012
    Inventors: MARTIN PENG, Kelly Tippett