Patents Issued in October 3, 2013
  • Publication number: 20130255363
    Abstract: In a first aspect, the present invention provides a method for detecting a wake situation in a wind farm comprising a plurality of wind turbines theoretically distributed according to a theoretical layout, one or more of the wind turbines having one or more load sensors. The method comprises obtaining, for one or more of the wind turbines with load sensors, load measurements from the load sensors during a predefined time interval. The method further comprises obtaining a qualified layout by qualifying in the layout each wind turbine for which load measurements have been obtained as overloaded or non-overloaded according to its load measurements. Finally, the obtained qualified layout is used to detect the wake situation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 27, 2013
    Publication date: October 3, 2013
    Applicant: ALSTOM WIND, S.L.U.
    Inventors: Sara MÉRIDA, Elena MENÉNDEZ ÁLVAREZ
  • Publication number: 20130255364
    Abstract: A fuel flow measuring apparatus comprises a fuel conditioning cabinet, a fuel supply delivered through a fuel supply line, a fuel measurement cabinet, a fuel transfer line to transfer fuel from the fuel conditioning cabinet to the fuel measurement cabinet, a fuel delivery line extending between the fuel measurement cabinet and the internal combustion engine and to deliver fuel thereto, a first fuel return loop extending from the fuel delivery line to the fuel measurement cabinet, a second fuel return loop extending between the fuel measurement cabinet and the fuel conditioning cabinet and an intermediate cooling system comprising an intermediate cooling tank containing an intermediate coolant, an intermediate coolant line in serial thermodynamic communication with the first fuel return loop and the second fuel return loop to thermally connect the fuel flowing through both of the fuel conditioning cabinet and the fuel measurement cabinet to define an isothermic fuel stability.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 28, 2012
    Publication date: October 3, 2013
    Applicant: GM GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS LLC
    Inventors: Richard W. Gushman, Charles Thomas Sullivan, David J. Gunnels
  • Publication number: 20130255365
    Abstract: A method for safely testing extraction systems is developed which allows repeated, reliable and safe actuation of the Extraction Force Transfer Coupling under external load. The unique test set-up invented to perform this testing is described as well as the features of this test rig that are not present in prior art. This novel set-up can be used to characterize the EFTC over a range of external loads and pull angles. It can also be tailored for unique as well as off-nominal EFTC configurations.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 27, 2012
    Publication date: October 3, 2013
    Inventors: John Joseph Zipay, Satish Chandra Reddy, Amber Leigh Newport, Dale Hiram Jennings
  • Publication number: 20130255366
    Abstract: A monitoring device for detecting a value indicative of the actuation stroke and/or release stroke of a thrust element of a brake actuating mechanism, the thrust element being actuated by a lever of the brake actuating mechanism, including a sensor for sensing variations in a physical property of at least one part of the brake actuating mechanism, whereby the sensor and the part of the brake actuating mechanism are arranged so that by the relative movement between the part of the brake actuating mechanism and the sensor repeated variations in the physical property along a path of the relative movement are created and sensed. The path is formed between the lever and a stationary part being adjacent to the lever. The invention is directed both to drum brakes and to disc brakes.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 24, 2013
    Publication date: October 3, 2013
    Inventors: Fredrik Seglo, Anders Larsson
  • Publication number: 20130255367
    Abstract: An apparatus, method and system are provided for characterizing fluid trapped in a subterranean formation using a downhole tool that includes an elongated body and a probe body. The probe body is moveable from and back into the elongated body. The probe body defines a flow line and supports a pressure sensor for measuring fluid pressure in the flow line, a piston and an electrical motor actuator that is adapted to move the piston in order to vary volume of the flow line. The integral electrical motor actuator, piston, pressure sensor and flow line of the probe body can provide for measurement of formation pressure and/or formation mobility.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 30, 2012
    Publication date: October 3, 2013
    Inventors: ELIZABETH B. DUSSAN, V, ABDERRHAMANE OUNADJELA, RICHARD D. JOYCE, JACQUES JUNDT, DOUGLAS W. GRANT, EDWARD HARRIGAN
  • Publication number: 20130255368
    Abstract: Methods and apparatus for determining a viscosity of oil in a mixture are disclosed herein. An example method includes determining water fractions of a mixture flowing into a downhole tool and determining viscosities of the mixture. The mixture includes water and oil. The example method also includes determining a viscosity of the oil based on the water fractions and the viscosities.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 30, 2012
    Publication date: October 3, 2013
    Inventors: Christopher Harrison, Andreas Hausot, Matthew T. Sullivan, Sophie Godefroy
  • Publication number: 20130255369
    Abstract: A system for testing a drilling fluid including a vessel having a fluid inlet, a filtrate outlet, a fluid outlet, and at least one permeable media disposed within the vessel. The system further including a base fluid container in fluid communication with the fluid inlet, a test fluid container in fluid communication with the fluid inlet, a filtrate container in fluid communication with the filtrate outlet, and a collection container in fluid communication with the fluid outlet. Additionally, the system includes a data acquisition device configured to receive data from at least one of the vessel, the fluid container, the filtrate container, and the collection container. Also, a method for determining sealing characteristics of a drilling fluid including injecting a test fluid having a fluid loss control material from at least fluid container to a vessel, the vessel having a permeable media having two plates disposed to create a variable gap.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 24, 2013
    Publication date: October 3, 2013
    Applicant: M-I L.L.C.
    Inventors: Huy Huynh, Robert P. Schlemmer
  • Publication number: 20130255370
    Abstract: An apparatus for performing a well test operation includes a closed chamber testing system having a downhole flow control device. In some embodiments, a method of performing a well test operation includes performing a well test operation with a closed chamber testing system having a downhole flow control device and estimating the reservoir properties based on pressure and flow data measured during the well test operation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 28, 2013
    Publication date: October 3, 2013
    Applicant: Schlumberger Technology Corporation
    Inventors: Gilles Roux, Celine Gabard-Cuoq, Pierre Mouget, Stephane Chareille
  • Publication number: 20130255371
    Abstract: A material characterization system and method for quantifying the characteristics of a flowing thermoplastic material is presented. The system comprises a tool comprising first and second tool halves, a plurality of flowing material characterization channels, and a feed runner. The tool is at a temperature that causes phase changes from fluid to solid in at least a portion of the characterized material and enables solidification of the material in the flowing material characterization channels. The feed runner is connectable to a single flowing material characterization channel. The tool is adjustable to disconnect the feed runner from one flowing material characterization channel and connect it to different flowing material characterization channels. A sensor quantifies the characteristics of the material under different flow conditions.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 1, 2013
    Publication date: October 3, 2013
    Applicant: Beaumont Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: John P. Beaumont, John Ralston
  • Publication number: 20130255372
    Abstract: An oil level gauge structure with an oil level gauge attachment hole functioning as an oil filling opening provided in a casing of an engine with an oil level gauge for closing up the attachment hole. The oil level gauge has a columnar portion formed on the lower end side of an external thread. The columnar portion has a predetermined length and is continuous with the external thread for attaching the oil level gauge to the casing. A guide hole into which the columnar portion is fitted to restrict the position of the columnar portion is provided on the lower end side of an internal thread of an attachment hole of the casing. The columnar portion of the oil level gauge is formed to have such an axial length that the lower end of the columnar portion exceeds the depth of the internal thread of the casing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 19, 2013
    Publication date: October 3, 2013
    Applicant: HONDA MOTOR CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Rei SASAKI, Takashi OKAMOTO
  • Publication number: 20130255373
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for measuring water level in a container using RFID tag is provided. The water level tag group mounted inside the container is tested by a signal transmission and receiving device in order to determine whether there is a complete water level tag group in the testing area or not. Further, one complete water level tag group is chosen, and an inquiry process is made to all RFID tags of the selected complete water level tag group by the signal transmission and receiving device. An effective RFID tag will respond to the inquiry by sending out a radio frequency signal to the signal transmission and receiving device. The signal transmission and receiving device will then perform a data analysis and select a minimum water level value so as to obtain a real-time water level value of the container.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 11, 2011
    Publication date: October 3, 2013
    Inventor: Kwai Sang So
  • Publication number: 20130255374
    Abstract: A method of measuring a liquid level of a cell culture solution stored in a cell vessel, includes: irradiating the cell culture solution with at least two kinds of light beams including a first light beam having a first wavelength and a second light beam having a second wavelength; measuring a first absorbance of the cell culture solution with respect to the first light beam, and a second absorbance of the cell culture solution with respect to the second light beam; and determining a liquid level of the cell culture solution based on the first absorbance and the second absorbance.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 21, 2013
    Publication date: October 3, 2013
    Applicants: TOKYO WOMEN'S MEDICAL UNIVERSITY, NIHON KOHDEN CORPORATION
    Inventors: Mitsuhiro Oura, Hirotsugu Kubo, Teruo Okano, Tatsuya Shimizu
  • Publication number: 20130255375
    Abstract: An intrinsically safe housing for a measuring instrument, having a viewing window for the display panel of a measuring instrument, an instrument display panel holding fixture for receiving an instrument display panel provided around the viewing window, said holding fixture having an inner void having a volume greater than a volume of the instrument display panel, a difference between said volumes forming a resin slot surrounding the instrument display panel upon its insertion, and a seal holding fixture provided around the viewing window containing a seal for sealing a front surface of said display panel, wherein the seal and the display panel holding fixture form a resin receptacle for a flowable resin, and the resin slot receives an overflow of said resin upon insertion of said instrument display panel.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 12, 2012
    Publication date: October 3, 2013
    Applicant: KROHNE Messtechnik GmbH
    Inventors: Thomas Werner, Wilhelm Lubbers
  • Publication number: 20130255376
    Abstract: Disclosed herein is an inertial sensor. The inertial sensor according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention includes: a plate-shaped membrane; a mass body provided under the membrane; posts provided under an outside edge of the membrane and surrounding the mass body; a piezoelectric body formed on the membrane; sensing electrodes formed on the piezoelectric body; driving electrodes formed on an outer circumference of the sensing electrodes, wherein tri-axis angular velocity can be measured without time division by a driving control unit continuously applying first driving voltage and second driving voltage that are is AC driving voltage having a phase difference of 90°.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 25, 2012
    Publication date: October 3, 2013
    Applicant: SAMSUNG ELECTRO-MECHANICS CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Seung Heon Han, Jung Eun Noh, Yu Heon Yi, Jong Woon Kim, Byoung Won Hwang, Kyung Rin Kim, Chang Hyun Kim
  • Publication number: 20130255377
    Abstract: A gyro sensor includes: a driving mass; a detection mass connected with the driving mass; a driving connection one end and the other end of which are connected with the driving mass and an anchor, respectively; an island connected with the anchor, and disposed with a clearance left between the island and the driving mass in such a manner as to be electrically connected with the driving mass; and a projection provided at least either on the surface of the driving mass opposed to the island, or on the surface of the island opposed to the driving mass. The driving unit includes a movable electrode unit connected with the driving mass, and a fixed electrode unit. The minimum distance between the driving mass and the island is longer than the driving amplitude of the driving mass and shorter than the maximum amplitude of the movable electrode unit.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 22, 2013
    Publication date: October 3, 2013
    Applicant: Seiko Epson Corporation
    Inventors: Makoto FURUHATA, Satoru TANAKA
  • Publication number: 20130255378
    Abstract: A gyro sensor includes: a vibrating body; a first fixed drive electrode that is disposed, in plan view, on a first direction side crossing a driving vibration direction of the vibrating body and vibrates the vibrating body; a second fixed drive electrode that is disposed, in plan view, on the side opposite to the first direction side and vibrates the vibrating body; a fixed detection electrode that detects a signal changing according to angular velocity of the vibrating body; a first drive wiring that is connected with the first fixed drive electrode and extends toward one side in the driving vibration direction; a second drive wiring that is connected with the second fixed drive electrode and extends toward the one side in the driving vibration direction; and a detection wiring that is connected with the fixed detection electrode and extends toward the side opposite to the one side.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 1, 2013
    Publication date: October 3, 2013
    Applicant: Seiko Epson Corporation
    Inventor: Kei KANEMOTO
  • Publication number: 20130255379
    Abstract: An vibrating gyro device includes a base, drive vibrating arms extending from one end of the base, and detection vibrating arms extending from the other end of the base that faces away from the one end, and an adjustment film is provided on each of the drive vibrating arms in an area close to the base.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 20, 2013
    Publication date: October 3, 2013
    Applicant: Seiko Epson Corporation
    Inventors: Keiji NAKAGAWA, Ryuta NISHIZAWA
  • Publication number: 20130255380
    Abstract: Optical accelerometers may be provided that detect acceleration in up to six axes. An optical accelerometer may include an image sensor and optical elements such as light pipes that extend over the image sensor. Light may be injected into the optical elements by a light source. The optical elements may guide the light onto corresponding portions of an image pixel array on the image sensor. The image pixels may be used to detect changes in the location, size, and intensity of illuminated portions of the pixel array when the optical elements move due to acceleration of the optical accelerometer. The optical accelerometer may include multiple light pipes having various lengths and thicknesses. Light pipes of matching length and thickness may be formed over opposing sides of a pixel array. The light pipes may be coated with a material that responds to electric or magnetic fields.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 1, 2013
    Publication date: October 3, 2013
    Applicant: Aptina Imaging Corporation
    Inventor: Kenneth Edward Salsman
  • Publication number: 20130255381
    Abstract: An inertial sensor having a body with an excitation coil and a first sensing coil extending along a first axis. A suspended mass includes a magnetic-field concentrator, in a position corresponding to the excitation coil, and configured for displacing by inertia in a plane along the first axis. A supply and sensing circuit is electrically coupled to the excitation coil and to the first sensing coil, and is configured for generating a time-variable flow of electric current that flows in the excitation coil so as to generate a magnetic field that interacts with the magnetic-field concentrator to induce a voltage/current in the sensing coil. The integrated circuit is configured for measuring a value of the voltage/current induced in the first sensing coil so as to detect a quantity associated to the displacement of the suspended mass along the first axis.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 1, 2013
    Publication date: October 3, 2013
    Applicant: STMicroelectronics S.r.I
    Inventors: Giulio Ricotti, Alberto Pagani, Fulvio Vittorio Fontana, Ubaldo Mastromatteo
  • Publication number: 20130255382
    Abstract: A physical quantity sensor includes: a fixed portion; a fixed electrode portion; and a movable body that includes a support portion disposed around the fixed portion in plan view, a movable electrode portion supported by the support portion, extending along a first axis, and arranged to face the fixed electrode portion, and a coupling portion coupling the fixed portion with the support portion, and is displaceable along a second axis crossing the first axis.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 29, 2013
    Publication date: October 3, 2013
    Applicant: Seiko Epson Corporation
    Inventor: Satoru TANAKA
  • Publication number: 20130255383
    Abstract: Disclosed herein is an inertial sensor. The inertial sensor includes a sensor unit provided with an electrode layer and including piezo-electric elements so as to detect a movement of a driving unit supported to be able to be displaced to detect inertial force; an IC electrically connected to the sensor unit; and a switch connected between the sensor unit and an IC so as to control electrical connection between the sensor unit and the IC.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 26, 2013
    Publication date: October 3, 2013
    Applicant: SAMSUNG ELECTRO-MECHANICS CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Yu Heon Yi, Jun Lim
  • Publication number: 20130255384
    Abstract: An ultrasonic transducer arrangement for inspecting a pipe to fitting weld with restricted scanning access. A TOFD ultrasonic send transducer is mounted adjacent one end of a frame. A TOFD ultrasonic receive transducer is mounted on the frame and spaced linearly apart from and aligned with the TOFD send transducer. The TOFD send and receive transducers are each positioned at an angle that matches the external radius of curvature of the pipe. A phased array curved, wedge, send/receive transducer is mounted on the frame and spaced radially apart from the TOFD transducers.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 29, 2012
    Publication date: October 3, 2013
    Inventors: Dinesh Damodar Putsherry, Abraham Kurian, Jayadev Muraleedhara Panicker
  • Publication number: 20130255385
    Abstract: A method for detecting discrepancies in an item is provided. The method comprises: directing energy waves at the item along at least one dimension, wherein a portion of the energy waves are reflected back from the item; detecting reflected energy waves from the item along at least one dimension and recording the intensity of the detected reflected energy waves, and forming a one-dimensional image of the item from the detected reflected energy waves.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 2, 2012
    Publication date: October 3, 2013
    Applicant: THE BOEING COMPANY
    Inventors: William Talion Edwards, Gary E. Georgeson, James E. Engel
  • Publication number: 20130255386
    Abstract: A pulse generation circuit and method includes using digital signals to trigger a first and second varying analog signals and detecting when they reach one or more reference levels. In response to the first and second varying analog signals reaching one or more reference levels, a first and a second digital control signals are produced and provided as input to a pulser producing a voltage excitation pulse having a width and timing defined by the first and second digital control signals.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 29, 2012
    Publication date: October 3, 2013
    Applicant: OLYMPUS NDT
    Inventor: Andrew THOMAS
  • Publication number: 20130255387
    Abstract: A vibration device includes: a semiconductor substrate; a first electrode provided on a first surface of the semiconductor substrate; a protective layer provided on the first surface and covering an end section of the first surface; and a vibration element having a vibration section, a mass adjusting section located on the vibration section and a second electrode. The vibration element is mounted on the first surface with the first electrode and the second electrode connected together, in a manner that the mass adjusting section is located in an area that overlaps the protective layer in a plan view, and a part of the vibration element is disposed at a position that does not overlap the first surface in a plan view.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 25, 2013
    Publication date: October 3, 2013
    Applicant: SEIKO EPSON CORPORATION
    Inventor: Terunao HANAOKA
  • Publication number: 20130255388
    Abstract: A probe is provided that can suppress the warp of an optical reflection member on a receiving surface and stably receive photoacoustic waves. The probe includes: an element having at least one cell in which a vibration film containing one electrode out of two electrodes that are provided so as to interpose a space therebetween is supported in a manner allowed to vibrate owing to the acoustic wave; an optical reflection layer 108 that is provided closer to the object than the element is; a support layer 104 supporting the optical reflection layer 108; and a warp suppressing layer 106 that is provided on at least one of the both surfaces of the support layer 104.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 12, 2013
    Publication date: October 3, 2013
    Applicant: CANON KABUSHIKI KAISHA
    Inventors: Eiji Takeuchi, Koichiro Nakanishi
  • Publication number: 20130255389
    Abstract: A probe is provided in which penetration of an acoustic medium into a support layer of an optical reflection member through a pinhole or a scratch on an optical reflection layer is suppressed, occurrence of a solvent crack is suppressed, and noise due to photoacoustic waves that occurs on a receiving surface can be suppressed. The probe includes an element having at least one cell in which a vibration film containing one electrode out of two electrodes that are provided so as to interpose a space therebetween is vibratably supported. The probe further includes a support layer disposed on the vibration film, and an optical reflection layer disposed on the support layer. A protection layer against an acoustic medium is formed on the optical reflection layer.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 12, 2013
    Publication date: October 3, 2013
    Applicant: CANON KABUSHIKI KAISHA
    Inventors: Shinichiro Watanabe, Atsushi Kandori, Kazutoshi Torashima
  • Publication number: 20130255390
    Abstract: A pressure sensor for use with a fluid delivery system having good sensitivity at low pressure, but also configured to remain in operating condition after being exposed to high pressures is disclosed herein. In one variation, the pressure sensor includes a fluid path set, a deformable element associated with the fluid path set and configured to deform in response to an external pressure, and a pressure transducer for monitoring deformation of the deformable element. In certain embodiments, the pressure sensor is configured to measure fluid pressure within the range of between about 0 mm Hg to about 300 mm Hg. However, the sensor pressure is also be configured to remain functional after being exposed to pressure in excess of about 60,000 mm Hg.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 13, 2013
    Publication date: October 3, 2013
    Applicant: MEDRAD, INC.
    Inventors: Michael A. Riley, Michael A. Spohn, Gerald W. Callan, Michael J. Swantner, Russell M. Evans, III
  • Publication number: 20130255391
    Abstract: A sensor unit has at least one measuring cell and a circuit mount arranged in a protective sleeve. The measuring cell detects a pressure of a hydraulic block. The circuit mount has a printed circuit board, which is positioned perpendicularly relative to the measuring cell. The printed circuit board has an electronic circuit with at least one electronic and/or electrical component. The measuring cell has at least one connection point configured to tap off at least one electrical output signal from the measuring cell. The circuit mount forms an internal interface which taps off the at least one electrical output signal from the measuring cell and applies it to the electronic circuit. An output signal from the electronic circuit can be tapped off by an external interface. The internal interface is formed at a first end and the external interface is formed at a second end of the protective sleeve.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 25, 2013
    Publication date: October 3, 2013
    Applicant: Robert Bosch GmbH
    Inventors: Michael Schlitzkus, Stefan Lehenberger, Robert Hengler, Dmitriy Aranovich, Philip Martin Lenk, Peter Diesel, Christian Pfleger
  • Publication number: 20130255392
    Abstract: A tension monitoring assembly or device permanently installed between a connection or anchor point and a guy cable line or structural rod allows constant monitoring and increase confidence that the guy cable or structural tension rod remains tensioned to the proper value. The device includes a plurality of compression members and a connecting member that are arranged between connection points such that the tension between a first connecting point and a second connection point may be set to a selected value. The tension on the device is determined by the distance between two members of the device such that a change in the tension from a set amount will result in a change of the distance between the two members. This change in distance can be determined by indicia that are visible as the two members move with respect to each other.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 27, 2012
    Publication date: October 3, 2013
    Applicant: TomCat USA, Inc.
    Inventor: Harry William Todd, IV
  • Publication number: 20130255393
    Abstract: According to one embodiment, a pressure sensor includes a base, and a first sensor unit. The first sensor unit includes a first transducer thin film, a first strain sensing device and a second strain sensing device. The first strain sensing device includes a first magnetic layer, a second magnetic layer, and a first intermediate layer provided between the first and the second magnetic layers. The second strain sensing device is provided apart from the first strain sensing device on the first membrane surface and provided at a location different from a location of the barycenter, the second strain sensing device including a third magnetic layer, a fourth magnetic layer, and a second intermediate layer provided between the third and the fourth magnetic layers, the first and the second intermediate layers being nonmagnetic. The first and the second strain sensing devices, and the barycenter are in a straight line.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 28, 2012
    Publication date: October 3, 2013
    Inventors: Hideaki Fukuzawa, Akihiko Enamito, Osamu Nishimura, Michiko Hara, Hiromi Yuasa, Yoshihiko Fuji, Masayuki Kii, Eizo Fujisawa
  • Publication number: 20130255394
    Abstract: A stress and strain sensing device capable of continuously sensing stress received from bedrock and strain of the bedrock over a long period of time is provided. A stress and strain sensing device has a pillar-shaped case to be buried and installed in bedrock, a pressure receiving member that has two pressure receiving surfaces for sensing stress received from the bedrock and strain of the bedrock, wherein the two pressure receiving surfaces are both arranged on a common axis orthogonal to an axial direction of the case such that the two pressure receiving surfaces are exposed to an outside through an outer peripheral wall of the case and wherein the two pressure receiving surfaces are not connected with the case mechanically, and a displacement sensor that senses the stress received from the bedrock and the strain of the bedrock based on a displacement amount between the two pressure receiving surfaces.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 3, 2012
    Publication date: October 3, 2013
    Applicants: Techno Sugaya Co., Ltd., Development of Earthquake Prediction
    Inventors: Hiroshi Ishii, Yasuhiro Asai, Hideo Sugaya
  • Publication number: 20130255395
    Abstract: A monitoring device is for the inner pressure distribution of building material in a building structure. The device may include planar sensing capacitors to be buried in contact with the building material, with each sensing capacitor including a pair of plates and a dielectric material layer therebetween adapted to undergo elastic deformation under pressure without deforming plastically. The device may also include a protection box to be buried in the building material, a dielectric material enclosed in the protection box, and connection terminals protruding from the protection box. Pairs of metal vias are buried in the dielectric material enclosed within the protection box, with each pair connecting the plates of a respective planar sensing capacitor to respective connection terminals.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 27, 2013
    Publication date: October 3, 2013
    Applicant: STMICROELECTRONICS S.R.L.
    Inventors: Giovanni GIRLANDO, Alessandro FINOCCHIARO, Bruno MURARI
  • Publication number: 20130255396
    Abstract: A surface shape measuring device includes a substrate, an electrode portion including at least one electrode pattern, the electrode pattern extending on the substrate, a coating layer on the substrate to cover the electrode pattern, and a detector electrically connected to the electrode pattern and detecting a change in a physical quantity of the electrode pattern generated by the deformation of the substrate or the coating layer by an external load applied thereto.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 28, 2013
    Publication date: October 3, 2013
    Applicant: KOREA ADVANCED INSTITUTE OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY
    Inventor: Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology
  • Publication number: 20130255397
    Abstract: A method and device for continuously testing the tensile strength of an optical fiber, wherein the incoming optical fiber is wrapped at least partially around a payout capstan, to an intermediate payout pulley, at least partially around the intermediate payout pulley, and back to the payout capstan. The optical fiber is then wound from the payout capstan to a tensile testing measurement component, and then to an uptake capstan. The optical fiber is wrapped at least partially around the uptake capstan, to an intermediate uptake pulley, at least partially around the intermediate uptake pulley, and back to the uptake capstan. The payout capstan and uptake capstan are operated at a desired rotational speed to continuously advance the optical fiber for tensile strength testing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 29, 2012
    Publication date: October 3, 2013
    Inventors: David Andrew Bednarczyk, Kirk Patton Bumgarner, Aditya Kaimal, Bruce Warren Reding
  • Publication number: 20130255398
    Abstract: Wind turbine blade comprising a sensor system with an optical path comprising a first optical sensor fiber, a second optical sensor fiber and a patch optical fiber, the first optical sensor fiber including a first core with a first core diameter wherein the first optical sensor fiber extends from a first end to a second end and comprising at least one sensor, the second optical sensor fiber including a second core with a second core diameter, wherein the second optical sensor fiber extends from a first end to a second end and comprising at least one sensor, the patch optical fiber including a patch core with a patch core diameter, wherein the patch optical fiber extends from a first end to a second end and connects the first optical sensor fiber and the second optical sensor fiber, wherein the first core diameter is the same as the patch core diameter.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 19, 2011
    Publication date: October 3, 2013
    Inventors: Morten Philipsen, Lars Erik Jensen
  • Publication number: 20130255399
    Abstract: Motion is induced in a conduit that contains a fluid. The motion is induced such that the conduit oscillates in a first mode of vibration and a second mode of vibration. The first mode of vibration has a corresponding first frequency of vibration and the second mode of vibration has a corresponding second frequency of vibration. At least one of the first frequency of vibration or the second frequency of vibration is determined. A phase difference between the motion of the conduit at a first point of the conduit and the motion of the conduit at a second point of the conduit is determined. A quantity based on the phase difference and the determined frequency is determined. The quantity includes a ratio between the first frequency during a zero-flow condition and the second frequency during the zero-flow condition. A property of the fluid is determined based on the quantity.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 28, 2013
    Publication date: October 3, 2013
    Applicant: Invensys Systems, Inc.
    Inventor: Michael S. Tombs
  • Publication number: 20130255400
    Abstract: Apparatus are provided for sensor assemblies and related medical devices. An embodiment of a sensor assembly includes a beam and a sensing element disposed on the beam. The sensor assembly also includes a structure to prevent deflection of the beam when a force applied to the sensor assembly is greater than a threshold value.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 29, 2013
    Publication date: October 3, 2013
    Applicant: MEDTRONIC MINIMED, INC.
    Inventors: Paul F. Bente, IV, Pablo Vazquez, Ian B. Hanson, Afshin Bazargan
  • Publication number: 20130255401
    Abstract: A torque detection device includes a yoke unit. The yoke unit includes a first magnetic yoke and a second magnetic yoke. The first magnetic yoke and the second magnetic yoke each are formed of a strip-shaped soft magnetic plate. The first magnetic yoke has yoke proximity portions and yoke distant portions that are formed by bending the soft magnetic plate. The second magnetic yoke has yoke proximity portions and yoke distant portion that are formed by bending the soft magnetic plate. The distance between each of the yoke proximity portions and a permanent magnet is shorter than the distance between each of the yoke distant portions and the permanent magnet.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 14, 2013
    Publication date: October 3, 2013
    Applicant: JTEKT CORPORATION
    Inventor: Yutaro ISHIMOTO
  • Publication number: 20130255402
    Abstract: An external force detection sensor includes a piezoelectric piece, excitation electrodes, an oscillation circuit, a movable electrode, and a fixed electrode. The fixed electrode forms variable capacitance with variation in capacitance between the fixed electrode and the movable electrode that is caused by deflection of the piezoelectric piece. The piezoelectric piece, the excitation electrode, the movable electrode, and the fixed electrode constitute combinations of a first combination and a second combination. The first combination constitutes a first sensor unit by disposing a first piezoelectric piece on a first crystal plane of the crystalline body. The second combination constitutes a second sensor unit by disposing a second piezoelectric piece on a second crystal plane. The second crystal plane does not opposite to the first crystal plane of the crystalline body. A relative position of the second crystal plane with respect to the first crystal plane is obtained.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 29, 2013
    Publication date: October 3, 2013
    Applicant: NIHON DEMPA KOGYO CO., LTD.
    Inventors: MITSUAKI KOYAMA, TAKERU MUTOH
  • Publication number: 20130255403
    Abstract: Sampling devices for procuring building material samples may include a first shaft, a second shaft, a core sampler, and at least one dust inhibitor. Sampling device kits may include a second shaft, at least one core sampler for procuring building material samples and configured to connect to the second shaft, at least one of an optional handle and an optional drill chuck configured to connect to the second shaft, an optional first shaft through which the second shaft and core sampler are configured to extend, and at least one optional dust inhibitor configured to connect to the first shaft. Methods of procuring a sample of building material may include sampling devices.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 28, 2012
    Publication date: October 3, 2013
    Applicant: DIXON INFORMATION INCORPORATED
    Inventor: Steven H. Dixon
  • Publication number: 20130255404
    Abstract: The invention relates to an electronic pipette comprising an electrically driven unit for pipetting and an operating and/or display unit, wherein a device module comprises a unit for pipetting, an operating and/or display module physically separate from the device module completely or partially comprises the operating and/or display unit, and means are provided for wirelessly communicating between the device module and the operating and/or display module.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 30, 2011
    Publication date: October 3, 2013
    Applicant: Eppendorf AG
    Inventors: Günther A. Mohr, Boris Von Beichmann, Werner Lurz
  • Publication number: 20130255405
    Abstract: A full scale uninhabited test facility is configured for building modular man made structures, evaluating modular man made structures, evaluating use of modular man made structures, and/or for other purposes. The structures may be located in a user configurable simulated environment. One or more structures may be configured to simulate use by inhabitants in a simulated environment. After testing, the constructed structure(s) may remain where built in the simulated environment(s) until such time as another user may reconfigure the environments or structures. As additional structures are built and/or modified, new and old structures may operate side by side, generating opportunity, for example, to test new and/or different technology on the same structures.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 30, 2012
    Publication date: October 3, 2013
    Applicant: Pegasus Global Strategic Solutions LLC
    Inventors: Robert H. Brumley, Robert H. Brumley, III, Michael J. Reedy, Fletcher W. Brumley, Charles Warner
  • Publication number: 20130255406
    Abstract: Disclosed herein is a debris-flow simulation apparatus having a variable flume. The flume includes a plurality of flume bodies which are connected to each other in the longitudinal direction. The heights of the flume bodies can be easily adjusted, thus varying the angles of inclination of the flume bodies.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 14, 2012
    Publication date: October 3, 2013
    Applicant: KOREA INSTITUTE OF GEOSCIENCE AND MINERAL RESOURCES
    Inventor: Sueng Won Jeong
  • Publication number: 20130255407
    Abstract: Systems and methods to control particle generation in a reticle inspection system are presented. The number of particles added to a reticle during an entire load-inspect-unload sequence of a reticle inspection system is reduced by performing all reticle contact events in a controlled, flowing air environment. In one embodiment, the reticle is fixed to a carrier by clamping outside of the vacuum environment, and the carrier, rather than the reticle, is coupled to the reticle stage of the inspection system. In this manner, the high levels of back-side particulation associated with electrostatic chucking are avoided. In addition, the carrier is configured to be coupled to the reticle stage in any of four different orientations separated by ninety degrees.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 8, 2013
    Publication date: October 3, 2013
    Inventors: Francis Charles Chilese, Ulrich Pohlmann, Detlef Wolter, Joseph Fleming Walsh
  • Publication number: 20130255408
    Abstract: A wiper motor 10 has a reduction mechanism 29 for reducing the rotational speed of a motor shaft 25 and transmitting the reduced speed, and a motion conversion mechanism 31 for converting the rotational motion of the reduction mechanism 29 into a rotational motion and transmitting the motion to the output shaft 30. A pair of first connection holes 50 and a pair of second connection holes 51 are formed on a worm wheel 35 at a position deviated in a radial direction from an axial center of the worm wheel so that each of the holes is opened at the side of one axial end side. The worm wheel 35 can be used for both cases in which the output shaft 30 is swung within a first swinging region and in which the output shaft 30 is swung within a second swinging region.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 29, 2011
    Publication date: October 3, 2013
    Applicant: MITSUBA CORPORATION
    Inventors: Teppei Tokizaki, Shigeki Ota
  • Publication number: 20130255409
    Abstract: The sprayer activation device contains a base member, a cover member, and a transmission assembly. The base member provides an accommodation space, an axle, a positioning piece, a through hole, and a number of positioning pins. The transmission assembly contains a motor and a number of engaging transmission gears in the accommodation space. The motor axle is threaded though the through hole of the base member and has an axle gear engaging a transmission gear. A pin is configured on another transmission gear. The cover member seals the accommodation space, and has a positioning pieces and a through slot. A crank is provided with a positioning opening and an axle hole at its two ends, and a hammer is configured at a side of the crank. The hammer is moved up and down as the transmission assembly drives the crank.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 27, 2012
    Publication date: October 3, 2013
    Inventor: Hsu-Hui CHANG
  • Publication number: 20130255410
    Abstract: A robot arm capable of being driven with a small force while having an enhanced rigidity includes a joint unit formed by stacking a plurality of link modules up against each other, and at least one driving device allowing the joint unit to pivot along at least one axis, wherein the driving device includes a cable disposed to pass through the plurality of link modules a plurality of times, a plurality of multi-turn pulleys configured to change a path of the cable when the cable passes therethrough, such that the cable passes through the plurality of link modules, and a driving unit configured to pull or push the cable such that the joint unit pivots.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 2, 2013
    Publication date: October 3, 2013
    Applicant: Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd
    Inventors: Youn Baek LEE, Yong Jae KIM
  • Publication number: 20130255411
    Abstract: A window regulator assembly having cables for driving one or more lifter plates along rails includes connectors for connecting the ends of cables together. The connectors are connectable together in a ‘use’ position and can be held in a lifter plate in the use position. By having the connectors connect to each other they withstand the tension in the cables when the window regulator assembly is at rest and the lifter plate is only required to withstand the differential tension between first and second cable segments during movement of the lifter plate. This allows the lifter plate to be formed from a relatively lower strength and less expensive material since it is subject to relatively lower stresses than prior art lifter plates.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 15, 2011
    Publication date: October 3, 2013
    Applicant: MAGNA CLOSURES, INC.
    Inventors: John P. McCorkell, Fai Koi Tam
  • Publication number: 20130255412
    Abstract: A transverse adjustment mechanism for a bilateral half-spring type load-carrying head is installed in the casing of the load-carrying head of the lifting unit of a pit type unwheeling machine, fixedly connected with the casing, directly connected to an adjustment unit at the end of the load-carrying head, and installed on a lead screw of the adjustment unit. The transverse adjustment mechanism includes an adjusting nut, an adjusting nut guide, a guiding tube, and a guiding sleeve, a nut mounting plate, a flange plate, a compression spring and a sliding shaft. The invention is currently applied to the transverse adjustment of the no-loading heads and transverse fine adjustment of the load-carrying heads of the CRH train. The structure is reliable and practical, safe, convenient and energy-saving to use and satisfies the demand for the synchronous lifting operation of the entire CRH train of the compatible pit type unwheeling machine.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 10, 2013
    Publication date: October 3, 2013
    Inventors: HUI DING, Xiaodong Xing, Xingtian Zhang, Minghai Wang, Zhenggang Xu, Lipeng Shao