Abstract: A capacitor for use in sensors includes opposed first and second capacitor plates, wherein the second capacitor plate is mounted to the first capacitor plate by a flexible attachment. The flexible attachment is configured and adapted so that flexure of the attachment causes a change in the spacing between the first and second capacitor plates to cause a change in the capacitance thereacross.

Abstract: A piezoresistive sensor device and a method for making a piezoresistive device are disclosed. The sensor device comprises a silicon wafer having piezoresistive elements and contacts in electrical communication with the elements. The sensor device further comprises a contact glass coupled to the silicon wafer and having apertures aligned with the contacts. The sensor device also comprises a non-conductive frit for mounting the contact glass to a header glass, and a conductive non-lead glass frit disposed in the apertures and in electrical communication with the contacts. The method for making a piezoresistive sensor device, comprises bonding a contact glass to a silicon wafer such that apertures in the glass line up with contacts on the wafer, and filling the apertures with a non-lead glass frit such that the frit is in electrical communication with the contacts.

Abstract: Systems and methods are described for laser ablation of an analyte from a specimen and capturing of the analyte in a dispensed solvent to form a testing solution. A solvent dispensing and extraction system can form a liquid microjunction with the specimen. The solvent dispensing and extraction system can include a surface sampling probe. The laser beam can be directed through the surface sampling probe. The surface sampling probe can also serve as an atomic force microscopy probe. The surface sampling probe can form a seal with the specimen. The testing solution including the analyte can then be analyzed using an analytical instrument or undergo further processing.

Abstract: According to one aspect, the invention relates to a marine sample collection system adapted for in situ use. The system includes a first filter head and a second filter head for filtering material of interest from ambient marine fluid passing therethrough and a respective filter flow meter disposed downstream of each of the filter heads for measuring volumetric flow through each filter head. The system also includes a pump downstream of the filter heads for inducing flow through the filter heads and an outlet flow meter disposed downstream of the pump for measuring volumetric flow through the pump. An optional controller compares a sum of an output of the flow meters associated with the first and second filter heads and an output of the outlet flow meter to determine if there is leakage in the system.

Abstract: An apparatus (10) and method for evaluating an effect of a surface presentation angle (A). The apparatus supports a plurality of samples (12) separated by support plates (18) between end plates (22) in a shish kebab arrangement. A groove (34) is formed on each side of each support plate for receiving an edge of each respective sample at a different angle relative to an axis of impingement (32). A clamping mechanism (20) holds the end plates, support plates and samples together in the fixed orientation exposing each sample surface at a different presentation angle, yet at the same distance from a process end effector (30). The sample impingement surfaces are exposed to the process, and the effect of the different surface presentation angles is determined from the samples. Process variables to counter the effects of surface presentation angle may be identified and controlled.

Abstract: A device for estimating the lifetime of the rolling bearing assembly equipped with inner and outer rings and a plurality of rolling elements interposed between respective rolling surfaces of the inner and outer rings is provided. The lifetime estimation device includes a buildup height estimation unit for estimating the buildup height of the indentation, as measured from one of the rolling surface of the inner and outer rings, in which the indentation has been formed, from the depth or the indentation size of the indentation in accordance with a predetermined rule, and a lifetime estimation unit for estimating the lifetime of the rolling bearing assembly in accordance with a rule determined by the relationship between the buildup height of the estimated indentation and the rate of reduction in lifetime of the rolling fatigue life and the dynamic equivalent load.

Abstract: An interlocking chain type forward and backward actuating device is provided that does not increase workload involved in assembling the device, adjusting the rotation phase, and servicing and maintaining the device. The device is capable of smoothly actuating a driven body by advancing and retracting the body, and of preventing any pulsation or the like of the meshing chain.

Abstract: The invention relates to a drive device for a sliding door or a sliding plug door of a passenger transportation vehicle, comprising at least one at least linearly movable runner (7) in order to move a door leaf fastened thereto, a motor (3) fastened to the runner (7) or to the passenger transportation vehicle, and a first gearbox (2, 5, 6) between the motor (3) and runner (7) in order to effect at least the longitudinal displacement of the runner, characterized in that at least two fastening options (13, 14), which differ in the arrangement ratios of the first gearbox and motor, are provided between the motor and the first gearbox.

Abstract: A linear actuator includes a motor, a movable unit, and a stroke control unit. The motor includes a spindle. The movable unit includes a worm gear and a rotary shaft. The worm is provided with annular spiral or helix teeth. The stroke control unit includes at least one transmission member and at least one micro switch. The at least one transmission member is engaged with and driven by the spiral or the helix teeth of the movable unit for synchronical rotation to activating or deactivating the micro switch. In this way, the linear actuator is simplified in structure and reduced in volume.

Abstract: A power transmission device for a vehicle includes a casing mounted on a vehicle, a rotational shaft supported in the casing and rotated by an engine, first and second speed changing shafts, supported in the casing and changing a speed of rotation of the rotational shaft, a first speed clutch mechanism and a second speed clutch mechanism provided between the rotational shaft and the first and second speed changing shafts, respectively, and an output shaft outputting rotation of one speed changing shaft selected by each of the clutch mechanisms. A first brake device applying a braking force to the first speed changing shaft and a second brake device applying the braking force to the second speed changing shaft are provided in the casing.

Abstract: Dual coupling gear mechanism for a motor vehicle, having a first input shaft and a second input shaft and having a first and a second countershaft, the input shafts and the counter-shafts being connected to each other by means of a plurality of shiftable wheel sets in order to establish at least seven forward gear stages and at least one reverse gear stage. At least one wheel set has a fixed wheel which is connected to one of the input shafts and two loose wheels which are rotatably supported on the first and on the second counter-shaft, respectively, and which are in engagement with the fixed wheel. An electric engine is connected to a loose wheel of one of the wheel sets or can be connected thereto by means of a shift clutch.

Abstract: A spindle nut for a ball screw with a nut part on whose inner periphery there is a spiral ball groove that winds around a spindle axis for the rolling of balls and with two deflection elements, the balls are deflectable into the curved deflection channel of each deflection element and the nut part has two recesses that are spaced apart from each other in the axial direction and one of the deflection elements is arranged in each recess. The nut part is provided with a straight return channel for the balls, and the straight return channel is connected to the two deflection channels. The balls are movable along a ball track in the curved deflection channel and in the straight return channel, and the straight return channel is arranged within a wall thickness of the spindle nut and is arranged at an angle relative to the spindle axis.

Abstract: An idler gear assembly has a compound gear consisting of two gear wheels. The gear wheels are provided with a through bore in which a thin walled bushing is press-fitted. An additional axial fixation element is provided to fixate the bushing into the bore in axial direction. The additional axial fixation element is constituted by a circular radial outward deformation of the wall of the bushing and a circular groove provided in the internal surface of the bore in which the radial outward deformation is located.

Abstract: A shift lever of an automotive transmission is provided, which reduces operating time and an assembling process. The shift lever includes a knob, a rod coupled to the knob, and a plurality of connectors formed at one side of each of the knob and the rod and electrically connected when the knob and the rod are coupled to each other, wherein the plurality of connectors comprises: a first connector including a plurality of first connection terminals spaced apart a predetermined distance from each other, and a second connector including a plurality of second connection terminals inserted between each of the plurality of first connection terminals when the knob and the rod are coupled to each other to face the plurality of first connection terminals, the plurality of second connection terminals each having a surface contacting a surface of each of the plurality of first connection terminals.

Abstract: An oil pressure control device includes: line pressure adjusting means for adjusting the line pressure; line pressure switching means for switching, in two stages, the line pressure adjusted by the line pressure adjusting means; a linear solenoid valve that adjusts a required oil pressure for engaging frictional engagement elements with one another by engagement force, which is required thereby, by adjusting a pressure of hydraulic oil with the line pressure; and control means for controlling a value of a current supplied to the linear solenoid valve. The control means performs control to differentiate the value of the current, which is supplied to the linear solenoid valve in order to adjust (obtain) the same required oil pressure, in response to the line pressure switched by the line pressure switching means.

Abstract: The invention relates to a shifting arrangement (10) for displacing a selector fork (44) of a multispeed transmission assembly (58) along a selector rod (48). Said shifting arrangement (10) comprises a positioning element (38) which is mounted so as to be rotatable about an axis (38). The positioning element (38) is connected to the selector fork (44), which is movably mounted on the selector rod (48), via a driving mechanism (18) designed for converting the rotational movement of the positioning element (12) into a sliding movement of the selector fork (44) along the selector rod (48). The shifting arrangement (10) further comprises a locking device (50) for locking the selector fork (44) in selected operating positions. The locking device (50) is designed for establishing a locking connection between the positioning element (12) and the selector fork (44).

Abstract: A method of actuating a surgical device is described. A surgical tool is inserted into a body cavity of a patient through a natural orifice. A distal end of an actuation tool is inserted through a surgical access port in the body of the patient. The distal end of the actuation tool is positioned proximal to an external wall of the body cavity opposite the surgical tool. A magnetic coupling is established between the distal end of the actuation tool and the surgical tool. When the magnetic coupling is established, distal end of the actuation tool is located at the external wall of the body cavity and the surgical tool is located at the internal wall of the body cavity. The surgical tool is manipulated using the actuation tool through the magnetic coupling.

Abstract: A steering device for a vehicle comprises a steering wheel including a central part arranged for facing a driver and a rim that can be rotated in order to steer the vehicle, the steering wheel further comprising air dispensing means for directing an air flow towards the driver.

Abstract: A locking device for a steering column and method of installing the locking device are provided. The locking device includes a spring body configured for installation on a rotatable bolt and comprising a biasing portion. The spring body is rotatable in one direction through a first range and second range. A lock body includes a body portion configured for mounting on the rotatable bolt and a locking portion configured to move between a first position and a second position. The biasing portion of the spring body contacts the lock body and causes the lock body to rotate with the spring body through the first range. The spring body is rotatable relative to the lock body through the second range such that at least a portion of the biasing portion is elastically deflected when the spring body is rotated through the second range.

Abstract: First and second lower support mechanisms (27, 28): are each provided with a coil spring (66, 86) that is mated to the outer periphery of an axle part (59, 79) of a fulcrum bolt (53, 73); and are configured in such a manner that support brackets (51, 71) are able to rock with respect to a steering column (5) by compressing the coil springs (66, 86). The coil springs (66, 86) are formed in such a manner that the axle parts (59, 79) are force fitted in a state prior to column-side fastening parts (55, 75) being fastened to the steering column (5).

Abstract: A fixing device has at least one clamping device and at least one locking element which can be acted upon by the clamping device, and at least one counter locking element. In a closed position of the clamping device, the locking element and the counter locking element are arranged in an engagement position, and the fixing device has at least one elastic resetting element for resetting the locking element in an open position of the clamping device. The fixing device has at least one engagement element which, in the closed position of the clamping device, is in engagement by preferably plastic deformation of at least one surface of the locking element and/or of the counter locking element in a form-fitting manner with the surface.

Abstract: The bracket includes a bracket body of which the front end ends by a receiving recess that is adapted to the shape of a set of handlebars and that can be closed toward the outside by a tightening yoke that is adapted to the shape of the handlebars. The tightening yoke is connected to the bracket body to tighten the handlebars by a tightening unit. The tightening yoke is formed by a part that is connected in the form of a flexible belt of which a first end is anchored in the bracket body and of which a second end is connected to the tightening unit arranged behind the receiving recess by being capable of pulling the second end close to the first end of the belt forming a tightening yoke in such a way as to adjust the tightening force of the handlebars.

Abstract: A grip for handlebars has a planar sheet of neoprene rubber, an embossed layer, or sheet, upon the exterior of the sheet, and a strip of hook releasable fastener upon one edge. The sheet has a generally rectangular form having four edges. An edge is about four inches and may extend to about twenty four inches. The sheet has an upper surface and a lower surface where the upper surface appears visible upon installation. The lower surface includes loop releasable fastener and receives the strip during installation. Further, the strip of hook fastener secures to the sheet through industrial stitching and a triple lock stitch and has adhesive suitable for many temperatures. The strip has an offset ½ inch wide that exposes a strip of hook fastener for later securement to the lower surface upon wrapping the sheet around a factory grip.

Abstract: In a lower end of a finisher having a substantially I-shape, an extending portion extending along a rim is provided. The finisher has an upper locking portion to be locked to an upper spoke and a lower locking portion provided in the extending portion and to be locked to a lower spoke. The lower locking portion has a protruding portion and a locking piece both standing upright from a back surface of the extending portion. The protruding portion and the locking piece are arranged away from each other in an up-down direction. The lower spoke has an engagement receiving portion for the protruding portion to be fitted and for the locking piece to be engaged.

Abstract: A bearing member for a pedal arm, which is a tubular bearing member which is disposed in a circular mounting hole formed in a plate member that constitutes the pedal arm and through which a connecting shaft having a cylindrical outer peripheral face is passed so as to be rotatable relative to the bearing member, the bearing member includes: a large-diameter tubular portion having an external diameter larger than a diameter of the mounting hole and having a cylindrical inner peripheral face along which the connecting shaft is extended so as to be rotatable relative to the cylindrical inner peripheral face; a small-diameter tubular portion that is formed continuously and integrally with the large-diameter tubular portion in an axial direction of the large-diameter tubular portion, that has a cylindrical outer peripheral face with a diameter smaller than that of the mounting hole, and that has the cylindrical inner peripheral face formed continuously from the large-diameter tubular portion along an overall lengt

Abstract: An active balancing system for rotating machinery is provided which is light weight, solid state and powered by radiant energy. One or more balance rings coupled to the rotating machinery each have balancing elements which are moved to a selected position by actuators whose operation is controlled according to measured vibration resulting from imbalance of the machinery. The actuators are powered by an electrical energy generating device, such as a photo cell or a photovoltaic element, which is coupled to the machinery and located across an air gap from a source of radiant energy such as an array of light emitting diodes.

Abstract: A torque fluctuation absorbing apparatus comprises a first plate member, a second plate member disposed at a position axially offset from the first plate member, an intermediate plate member that is disposed between the first plate member and the second plate member and has a frictional sliding surface mating with the second plate member, rolling elements disposed so as to roll between the intermediate plate member and the first plate member, and resilient member that allows the intermediate plate member and the first plate member to rotate relative to each other. The intermediate plate member and the first plate member have acting sections on a surface whereon at least one of the rolling elements rolls, the acting sections press the intermediate plate member against the second plate member by a relative rotation between the intermediate plate member and the first plate member.

Abstract: A link element for coupling two assemblies with one another. The link has rod-shaped sections that are connected by an overload protection but are able to move axially relative to one another if subjected to an overload. The overload protection comprises a shear element which rigidly connects the link sections, in a form locking manner, and has a stop for limiting relative axial movement of the link sections, if subjected to an overload. The link element provides a defined deformation path, in the event of failure, and remains functional to a limited extent even once an overload occurs. The link element, when used on a chassis of a vehicle, signals to the driver damage or overload in the chassis, without further components or devices.

Abstract: The automatic cycle pedal includes a pedal body (2) mounted to rotate on a pedal axis (3) and provided with a front member (5) for engaging an attachment member fixed under the sole of a shoe of a cyclist, and a rear member (6) for retaining the attachment member. The automatic pedal (1) also includes primary support surfaces (8) provided on the pedal body (2) and used simultaneously with auxiliary support surfaces (10) provided on a support cage (9) arranged around the pedal body (2) while giving access to the front and rear members (5, 6). The support cage (9) is mounted removably on the pedal body (2) using link elements (11) so as to allow the automatic pedal with support cage with auxiliary support surfaces to be converted into an ordinary automatic pedal without support cage and vice versa.

Abstract: A linkage arrangement (10) is provided for moveably connecting an attachment (6) to a work machine (8). The linkage arrangement (10) includes linkage group (12) having an upper arm (14) with a machine pivot point (20) for connecting to the work machine (8) and an attachment pivot point (22) for connecting to the attachment (6). The linkage group (12) further has a lower arm (16) with a machine pivot point (24) for connecting to the work machine (8) and an attachment pivot point (26) for connecting to the attachment (6). An actuator (30) extends between the upper and lower arms (14, 16), whereby during normal operation an increase in the length of the actuator (30) results in the attachment (6) being lowered relative to the work machine (8).

Abstract: A method of preparing thermoelectric material particles, the method comprising: disposing a first electrode and a second electrode in a dielectric liquid medium, wherein the first and second electrodes each comprise a thermoelectric material; applying an electrical potential between the first and second electrodes to cause a spark between the first and second electrodes to provide a vaporized thermoelectric material at a sparking point of at least one of the first and second electrodes; and cooling the vaporized thermoelectric material with the dielectric liquid medium to prepare the thermoelectric material particles.

Abstract: A composite soft magnetic material having low magnetostriction and high magnetic flux density contains: pure iron-based composite soft magnetic powder particles that are subjected to an insulating treatment by a Mg-containing insulating film or a phosphate film; and Fe—Si alloy powder particles including 11%-16% by mass of Si. A ratio of an amount of the Fe—Si alloy powder particles to a total amount is in a range of 10%-60% by mass. A method for producing the composite soft magnetic material comprises the steps of: mixing a pure iron-based composite soft magnetic powder, and the Fe—Si alloy powder in such a manner that a ratio of the Fe—Si alloy powder to a total amount is in a range of 10%-60%; subjecting a resultant mixture to compression molding; and subjecting a resultant molded body to a baking treatment in a non-oxidizing atmosphere.

Abstract: Gold ores are processed to obtain a mixture comprising gold particles and other particles, such as quartz particles. The mixture then passes through a location near a quantum resonance driver. The quantum resonance driver generates a macro quantum resonance effect that causes the gold particles to move away from the driver so that gold particles are separated from the mixture.

Abstract: Described herein are methods of controlling metal nanowire morphologies by adjusting the reaction conditions of a polyol synthesis. In particular, by purging the reaction with an inert gas, batch-to-batch consistency can be achieved.

Abstract: An extendable multi-tool comprising an extendable pole and a head unit selectively detachably coupled together. The head unit comprises a grasping mechanism configured to engage a light bulb, a control switch and a rotation mechanism. The control switch configured to cause the grasping mechanism to become secured to a light bulb, and to cause the rotation mechanism to automatically detect when a light bulb is secured to the grasping mechanism and then rotate the grasping unit and the secured light bulb in a first direction based on the position of the control switch. The tool further comprises an arm unit for positioning the grasping mechanism in a desired configuration to engage the light bulb, wherein the arm member is coupled to the grasping mechanism.

Abstract: Spin-in and spin-out apparatus and methods are presented wherein an oilfield tubular spinner used in combination with a wrench detects the shouldering-up of tubulars during make-up and tubular thread disengagement during break-out. Sensors are employed to quantify measurables indicative of shouldering-up and thread disengagement, the measurables being used to shutdown spin-in and spin-out operations. Thresholds are employed to detect measurable values of interest. Timers may be employed to monitor and control the spin-in and spin-out operations.

Abstract: A ratcheting wrench that includes a ratchet structure having an annular body, a ratchet body, a one-way clutch and a socket wheel. The ratchet body is received in the annular body of the ratchet structure and defines a socket wheel aperture. The one-way clutch couples the ratchet body to the ratchet structure and permits rotation of the ratchet body in the annular body about a first axis in a first rotational direction and inhibits rotation of the ratchet body in the annular body about the first axis in a second, opposite rotational direction. The socket wheel is received in the socket wheel aperture and coupled to the ratchet body for rotation about a second axis that is perpendicular to the first axis, the socket wheel having a plurality of tool members that are spaced circumferentially apart from one another about a first axis.

Abstract: An adjustable nut wrench comprising a handle section and a slide guided element that is pushed by a lever or a spring to a position where abutment surfaces are parallel to two or three of the nut's sides. A preferred embodiment of the wrench comprises two parallel abutment surfaces which are set to a maximum angle of 60 degrees to the direction of the sliding element movement. Another embodiment of the wrench has three abutment surfaces separated by an angle of 60 degrees to one another where one of them is sliding. In further embodiments of the wrench the same method, using a moving sloping abutment surface for a jaw locking, is used.

Abstract: A torque transmission driver is disclosed. The torque transmission driver has a drive axis and a main body with a first end portion and a second end portion, where the first end portion is adapted to receive and transmit torque from a torque generating source to the driver, and the second end portion is opposite the first end portion and has a key shape adapted to fit a recess in a fastener and has a protruding lead end having a taper between 10° and 30° and different in shape than the key shape with at least a portion of the protruding lead end initiating at the major dimension of the key shape. A torque transmission driver adapted to drive a small fasteners is also disclosed where the key shape is adapted to fit the recess of the small fastener.

Abstract: This method for producing wet wipes includes the following steps: a step for vertically folding non-woven cloth sheets; a step for impregnating the sheets with a chemical; a step for stacking the sheets; a step for cutting the sheets at predetermined lengths; a step for pulling the cut sheets away from a transporting conveyer provided with a suction mechanism by means of a pusher, and stacking the cut sheets; a step for pressing a bundle comprising the sheets; and a step for packaging the bundle. The pusher is disposed between the transporting conveyers. The blades of the pusher have a plurality of tooth sections. The pusher drops the sheets suctioned to the transporting conveyer downwards by means of moving vertically downwards.

Abstract: Separating and/or sorting processed workpieces cut from a metal sheet, and the remnant surrounding the workpiece, is performed by holding the workpieces and remnant in a co-planar state after processing, moving the held workpieces and remnant away from a processing area, and then, with the workpiece and remnant still held, moving the workpiece and remnant relative to one another with a separating movement perpendicular to the workpiece plane, to such an extent that the workpiece is displaced outside the remnant.

Abstract: There is provided in a preferred embodiment of the present invention a multifunction safety knife having two cutting positions. The knife includes a head having a protected lower opening and a frontal opening. A bottom cutting edge of a blade is exposed by the protected lower opening and a front cutting edge of the blade is selectively exposed by the frontal opening. The head further includes a pointed hook for puncturing film prior to cutting a length of it.

Abstract: A food product slicer includes a slicer body, a rotatable slicer knife and a removable knife cover plate. The knife cover plate is releasably secured in place on the slicer at least in part by a magnetic field. One or more slots or openings on the knife cover plate may also be provided.

Abstract: A work piece guidance system, in particular for a circular table saw, has a parallel stop unit and a work piece guide device each having at least one coupling region. The coupling regions are configured to be coupled to each other to guide the work piece guide device along the parallel stop unit.

Abstract: A saw blade (1) includes a tooth supporting body (2) and a plurality of teeth (3) being arranged at the tooth supporting body (2). Each of the plurality of teeth (3) includes a tooth tip (8) including a cutting portion (9). The cutting portion (9) and at least another part of the tooth tip (8) of the teeth (3) are made of a steel alloy that has been produced by powder metallurgy and full annealing.

Abstract: A workpiece dividing method for dividing a platelike workpiece into a plurality of individual chips. The workpiece dividing method includes a workpiece preparing step of preparing the platelike workpiece, at least one side of the workpiece being formed as a mat surface, a holding step of holding the workpiece on a holding surface of a chuck table in the condition where the mat surface of the workpiece is exposed, a cut groove forming step of cutting the mat surface of the workpiece held on the holding surface of the chuck table by using a cutting blade to thereby form a cut groove with a remaining portion, and a laser cutting step of applying a laser beam to the workpiece along the cut groove to thereby cut the remaining portion.

Abstract: A portable sound reflector designed to be placed under the soundboard of a piano in order to reflect sound laterally. The preferred embodiment includes a main panel which is held in the proper reflecting orientation by a pair of lateral wings. The lateral wings are preferably hinged to the main panel so that the entire assembly may be folded flat for transportation and storage. A pair of automatically-deploying stays are preferably included. These fold outward and downward to latch the lateral wings in the deployed state when the device is to be used. The hinges are preferably spring-biased toward the open position. This allows the device to assist the user in the unfolding process.

Abstract: The convertible fret board is an independent fret board that can be inserted or removed from between the strings and permanent fret board of a slide style arranged string instrument. When installed, it raises the frets near to the strings, thus allowing finger style mote selection. When removed, slide style note selection is played.

Abstract: Various embodiments and methods of using an ergonomic guitar strap are disclosed herein.

Abstract: A drum stand stabilizing assembly, generally intended for marching percussion instruments such as snare drums. The invention uses a lateral support to hold the weight of the instrument in multiple locations, a post or posts to stabilize the instrument in the proper position, and a mating receiver mounted to the instrument to allow for assembly of the complete support structure. The assembly provides for a stable support structure and maintains the instrument in the proper orientation for practice or performance. The assembly provides for fast and simple mounting of the instrument.