Patents Issued in January 2, 2018
  • Patent number: 9857223
    Abstract: An interferometer system comprising an optical detector including a substrate and a two-dimensional array of pixels disposed on the substrate is provided. The interferometer system may further comprise an interferometer disposed proximate the optical detector without an optical element between the interferometer and the optical detector. The interferometer may include a first plate positioned proximate the substrate and extending over the two-dimensional array of pixels, a second plate spaced apart from the first plate, the first and second plates defining an optical gap between them, and at least one actuatable spacer positioned between the first plate and the second plate and configured to space apart the first and second plates from one another and to selectively alter a thickness of the optical gap.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 20, 2015
    Date of Patent: January 2, 2018
    Assignee: RAYTHEON COMPANY
    Inventors: Randall W. Zywicki, David C. Mann, Andre D. Cropper
  • Patent number: 9857224
    Abstract: An optical locking system comprises a light emitter, an optical wavelength identifying system, and a locking unit. The optical wavelength identifying system comprises an optical wavelength detecting device, a memory, a modulator, a comparison module, and an instruction module. The optical wavelength detecting device comprises a polarizer, a detecting element, a measuring device, and a data processor. The detecting element configured to form a temperature difference or a potential difference between two points of the detecting element when exposed to the polarized light, wherein the detecting element comprises a carbon nanotube structure comprising a plurality of carbon nanotubes oriented along the same direction, and angles between a polarizing direction of the polarized light and an oriented direction of the plurality of carbon nanotubes is adjustable.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 19, 2017
    Date of Patent: January 2, 2018
    Assignees: Tsinghua University, HON HAI PRECISION INDUSTRY CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Ling Zhang, Lei Deng, Yang Wu, Chang-Hong Liu, Kai-Li Jiang, Shou-Shan Fan
  • Patent number: 9857225
    Abstract: A system. The system includes a first beam path configured to transmit a first light beam having a first optical wavelength and a second beam path configured to transmit a second light beam having a second optical wavelength distinct from the first optical wavelength. A first beam splitter disposed at an intersection of the first beam path and the second beam path. The first beam splitter is configured to superimpose the first and second light beams to form a third light beam, the third light beam impinging on a first window of a sample cell. The sample cell defines an interior volume and is configured to transfer the third light beam from the first window to a second window along a light path within the interior volume. The light path comprises a plurality of segments. The third light beam undergoes at least one reflection at an end of each segment, wherein the light path passes through a gas sample disposed within the interior volume.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 20, 2015
    Date of Patent: January 2, 2018
    Assignee: IMACC, LLC
    Inventors: William F. Pearman, Scott A. Evans, Daniel J. Pearson
  • Patent number: 9857226
    Abstract: An integrated microgrid imaging polarimeter comprises a repeating pattern of wiregrid polarizers in a new 2×4 array that improves image resolution and quality by increasing the spatial bandwidth available for each Stokes image despite that the new repeating pattern is larger than prior art 2×2 arrays. An example embodiment has polarization orientations of the wiregrid polarizers in each 2×4 array, beginning from an arbitrary top left polarizer of each array and continuing clockwise, as: 45 degrees; zero degrees; 315 degrees; 90 degrees; zero degrees; 45 degrees; 90 degrees; and, 315 degrees. The disclosure includes an analysis showing development of the new 2×4 array and supporting its improved performance over prior art 2×2 arrays.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 10, 2015
    Date of Patent: January 2, 2018
    Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the Air Force
    Inventors: Daniel A. LeMaster, Keigo Hirakawa
  • Patent number: 9857227
    Abstract: A flash thermography device for generating an infrared image of a turbine component located inside a turbine. The device includes a flash enclosure having an aperture. A flash source is located in the aperture wherein the flash source generates a light pulse that heats the turbine component. The device also includes an infrared sensor for detecting thermal energy radiated by the turbine component wherein the radiated thermal energy is transmitted through the aperture to the infrared sensor to enable generation of an infrared image of the turbine component. Further, the device includes moveable arm that holds the flash enclosure and infrared sensor wherein the arm is inserted through an opening in the turbine to enable positioning of the flash source and infrared sensor in close proximity to the turbine component.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 31, 2016
    Date of Patent: January 2, 2018
    Assignee: SIEMENS ENERGY, INC.
    Inventors: Dustin C. Boudin, Clifford Hatcher, Jr., Anand A. Kulkarni, Kevin Licata
  • Patent number: 9857228
    Abstract: A diagnostic field device for detecting a condition of a process conduit includes an infrared detector comprising a plurality of pixels configured to receive infrared radiation from the process conduit and responsively provide a plurality of pixel outputs. A first pixel of the plurality of pixels is configured to receive infrared radiation from a first location on the process conduit. A second pixel of the plurality of pixels is configured to receive infrared radiation from a second location on the process conduit. A memory contains thermal profile information which relates an output from the first pixel to a first temperature at the first location and relates an output from the second pixel to a second temperature at the second location. A microprocessor identifies a process anomaly based upon outputs from the first and second pixels. Output circuitry provides a diagnostic output indicative of the identified process anomaly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 25, 2014
    Date of Patent: January 2, 2018
    Assignee: Rosemount Inc.
    Inventor: Jason Harold Rud
  • Patent number: 9857229
    Abstract: A method of fabricating electromagnetic radiation detection devices including: forming a first mask on a substrate; forming a structural layer on the substrate using the first mask; forming a metallic layer overlying the structural layer; removing the first mask; forming a second mask on the substrate, the second mask comprising mask openings; selectively patterning the metallic layer using the mask openings; and removing the second mask.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 21, 2016
    Date of Patent: January 2, 2018
    Assignee: MP High Tech Solutions Pty Ltd
    Inventor: Marek Steffanson
  • Patent number: 9857230
    Abstract: An infrared detector based on carbon nanotubes is provided. The infrared detector includes a detecting element, a first electrode and a second electrode. The detecting element includes an absorbing part and a non-absorbing part. A first end is located in the absorbing part. A second end is located in the non-absorbing part. An angle between the absorbing part and the non-absorbing part is less than 90 degrees. A first electrode is electrically connected with the first end. A second electrode is electrically connected with the second end.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 22, 2014
    Date of Patent: January 2, 2018
    Assignees: Tsinghua University, HON HAI PRECISION INDUSTRY CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Chun-Hua Hu, Chang-Hong Liu, Shou-Shan Fan
  • Patent number: 9857231
    Abstract: A sensor and method of making a sensor for detecting an incident signal is provided. The sensor includes a frame, an antenna and a platform configured to detect the incident signal, and a holding arm connected to the frame, the holding arm configured to structurally support the antenna and the platform, and further configured to operably connect the platform to an electronic device external to the frame. The holding arm includes a conductor having an axial length and a plurality of disturbance elements formed along the axial length of the conductor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 30, 2015
    Date of Patent: January 2, 2018
    Assignee: INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS MACHINES CORPORATION
    Inventors: Dan Corcos, Danny Elad, Bernd W. Gotsmann, Thomas E. Morf
  • Patent number: 9857232
    Abstract: In a device (1) for non-contact temperature measurement, it is proposed that an angle measuring device (5) is designed such that an emission angle (6) of the IR radiation detected with a detector (2) for temperature measurement can be measured on the measuring region (9) of a measuring object (3) emitting the IR radiation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 20, 2013
    Date of Patent: January 2, 2018
    Assignee: TESTO AG
    Inventors: Sara Rentmeister, Jan-Friso Evers-Senne
  • Patent number: 9857233
    Abstract: Embodiments of an environmental monitoring system that mitigates complexities in installation and maintenance while complying with strict regulations on operations of the system. The environmental monitoring system may communicate wirelessly between components such as sensor units and display devices, enabling these components to be separately and easily installed in an environment without needing to install wires in the environment to connect them. In addition, in embodiments at least some of the components (e.g., sensor units and display devices) of the environmental monitoring system may be adapted to wirelessly and reliably communicate using specific wireless communication protocols, described in detail herein, that exchange few communications between the components and thereby decrease power consumption of these components. Further, in some embodiments, a display device may include hardware and/or execute software that drive and/or update a display only when a condition is met.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 11, 2015
    Date of Patent: January 2, 2018
    Assignee: Schechter Tech, LLC
    Inventors: Harry J. Schechter, Jeremy MacDonald, Diane Deng, Kyle Gilpin
  • Patent number: 9857234
    Abstract: A temperature monitoring service in which remote monitoring units are distributed to customers who then set up monitoring as desired at their facilities. The devices may be registered through a web site using the Internet. Monitoring information may be communicated using a publicly available, wireless network, such as a cellular telephone network. The service may be provided with a system, including a server, which can deliver high levels of monitoring functionality. The server may support streaming monitoring information to a customer for analysis or sending a command activating a device connected to a remote unit. Remote units associated with the same location may be in a pool, comprising one active unit and one or more spare units, in which the server automatically identifies the active unit. The server may support analyzing monitoring information according to an expected cycle pattern of a ventilation system at the monitored facility.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 1, 2016
    Date of Patent: January 2, 2018
    Assignee: Schechter Tech, LLC
    Inventors: Harry J. Schechter, Kevin Felichko
  • Patent number: 9857235
    Abstract: Techniques for real-time modeling temperature distributions based on streaming sensor data are provided. In one aspect, a method for creating a three-dimensional temperature distribution model for a room having a floor and a ceiling is provided. The method includes the following steps. A ceiling temperature distribution in the room is determined. A floor temperature distribution in the room is determined. An interpolation between the ceiling temperature distribution and the floor temperature distribution is used to obtain the three-dimensional temperature distribution model for the room.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 8, 2013
    Date of Patent: January 2, 2018
    Assignee: International Business Machines Corporation
    Inventors: Hendrik F. Hamann, Hongfei Li, Srinivas Yarlanki
  • Patent number: 9857236
    Abstract: Co-topo-polymeric indicator compositions and methods for making and using the same are provided. Indicator compositions of the invention include a polymer and undergo a color change, which may be reversible or irreversible, in response to an applied stimulus, e.g., temperature. Aspects of methods of producing the compositions include setting a fluid co-topo-polymeric precursor composition into a solid product and then subjecting the solid product (either immediately or after a delay period) to polymerizing conditions to produce the desired indicator composition. Also provided are indicator devices that include the indicator compositions of the invention. The compositions of the invention find use in a variety of different applications.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 21, 2015
    Date of Patent: January 2, 2018
    Assignee: Segan Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: Hans O. Ribi
  • Patent number: 9857237
    Abstract: A wine thermometer for adhering to a wine bottle indicates the temperature of a particular wine product in that bottle. The thermometer comprises an adhesive backed flexible plastic substrate having three to five predetermined color sections mounted on the flexible substrate with a first color section indicating when a preferred serving temperature for the particular wine product inside has been reached, a second color section indicating when the temperature for the particular wine product inside is higher than preferred and a third color section indicating when the temperature for the particular wine product inside is lower than preferred.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 19, 2014
    Date of Patent: January 2, 2018
    Inventor: Louis D. Astorino
  • Patent number: 9857238
    Abstract: Techniques for determining and using a thermodynamic model that characterizes a thermodynamic response of an enclosure conditioned by an HVAC system are disclosed. To determine a thermodynamic model, temperature information when the HVAC system operates in a first state may first be received. A response interval may then be determined where the response interval indicates an estimated time between when the HVAC system begins operating in the first state and when the temperature within the enclosure begins to change in a direction associated with the first state. Weighting factors corresponding to basis functions may then be determined, where the weighted basis functions characterize the temperature trajectory of the enclosure in response to the HVAC system operating in the first state.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 18, 2014
    Date of Patent: January 2, 2018
    Assignee: Google Inc.
    Inventors: Kara Malhotra, Yoky Matsuoka, Mark Malhotra, Allen Minich, Joseph Ruff
  • Patent number: 9857239
    Abstract: A method for temperature analysis of a gas stream. The method includes identifying a temperature parameter of an affected waveform signal. The method also includes calculating a change in the temperature parameter by comparing the affected waveform signal with an original waveform signal. The method also includes generating a value from the calculated change which corresponds to the temperature of the gas stream.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 28, 2017
    Date of Patent: January 2, 2018
    Assignees: Lawrence Livermore National Security, LLC, EmiSense Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: Leta Yar-Li Woo, Robert Scott Glass, Joseph Jay Fitzpatrick, Gangqiang Wang, Brett Tamatea Henderson, Anthoniraj Lourdhusamy, James John Steppan, Klaus Karl Allmendinger
  • Patent number: 9857240
    Abstract: A system and a method for temperature sensing of three-dimensional integrated circuits are revealed. The three-dimensional integrated circuit is formed by stacking of a plurality of chip layers that execute specific functions. The chip layer includes a master layer and at least one slave layer. The master layer is disposed with a master temperature sensor while a first thermal conductive part is arranged at the slave layer where heat is detected. The first thermal conductive part and the master temperature sensor are connected by a thermal conductive structure. Thereby temperature of various points at different chip layers is conducted to the same chip layer by Through Silicon Vias to be measured and calibrated. The design complexity and the implementation cost of the temperature sensing system are significantly reduced.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 15, 2015
    Date of Patent: January 2, 2018
    Assignee: National Cheng Kung University
    Inventors: Soon-Jyh Chang, Peng-Yu Chen, Kuen-Jong Lee, Chung-Ho Chen
  • Patent number: 9857241
    Abstract: A method of operating a differential scanning calorimeter wherein errors in the heat flow rate measurement are reduced by operating the calorimeter in a quasiadiabatic mode and by employing a heat flow rate measurement algorithm that includes the leakage heat flow rate. The temperature of the DSC enclosure is controlled independently of the temperature of the measuring system, which allows the temperature difference between the sample and reference containers and the enclosure to be minimized, thus minimizing leakage heat flow.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 30, 2013
    Date of Patent: January 2, 2018
    Assignee: WATERS TECHNOLOGIES CORPORATION
    Inventor: Robert L. Danley
  • Patent number: 9857242
    Abstract: A method for analyzing a three-dimensional stress concentrating feature of a component (60), such as a borehole (62), using a two-dimensional probabilistic technique. A circumferentially-dependent stress concentration profile around the stress concentrating feature is determined, and then a probability of failure of the component is calculated using a 2D probabilistic failure analysis of the stress concentration profile. The probabilistic failure analysis may include a Monte Carlo theta integration approach.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 25, 2014
    Date of Patent: January 2, 2018
    Assignee: SIEMENS AKTIENGESELLSCHAFT
    Inventors: Kai Kadau, Christopher W. Ross, Chirag B. Patel, Christian Amann
  • Patent number: 9857243
    Abstract: An array of resonant sensors self-corrects measured values for the effects of environmental conditions, such as operating temperature, pressure or humidity. The resonant sensors have varied frequency responses to N environmental parameters and M chemical parameters. Each of the sensors has a different, non-zero frequency response to at least two of the parameters. The device also comprises at least one detector for detecting frequency responses of the resonant sensors. Individual parameter values are determined for each of the N environmental parameters and M chemical parameters according to the detected frequency responses and a system of equations using calibration terms that relate the frequency responses to the individual parameter values.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 17, 2015
    Date of Patent: January 2, 2018
    Assignee: Matrix Sensors, Inc.
    Inventors: Paul R. Wilkinson, Steven Yamamoto
  • Patent number: 9857244
    Abstract: A force sensor can include a magnetic field generator, a magnetic flux return, and a magneto-elastic layer. The magnetic flux return can extend along a first portion of at least one pathway of magnetic flux generated by the magnetic field generator. The magneto-elastic layer can be operable to be in contact with a surface subjected to force and thereby strained. The magneto-elastic layer can extend along a second portion of the at least one pathway of magnetic flux distinct from the first portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 2, 2014
    Date of Patent: January 2, 2018
    Assignee: Eaton Corporation
    Inventors: Mark Allan Juds, John Albert Kovacich
  • Patent number: 9857245
    Abstract: A robotic sensing and touch apparatus detects gradual deformations in a resilient surface, in contrast to conventional rigid member displacement. Hall effect sensors coupled to rare-earth magnets in a deformable base allow sensing of surface curvature and compression against grasped objects. The deformable base, such as a silicone mold or other resilient encapsulation, fixes a magnetic source and an opposed Hall effect sensor. Calibration of a received magnetic field is defined by a sensor element voltage in an “at rest” (undeformed) state, and at successive degrees of deformation resulting from compression of the deformable base that draws the magnet in different orientations relative to the Hall effect sensor. An array of magnet and sensor element pairs allows relative sensing over an area for detecting curvature of a translated or articulated member, or engagement with a curved surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 9, 2016
    Date of Patent: January 2, 2018
    Assignee: Worcester Polytechnic Institute
    Inventors: Cagdas D. Onal, Selim Ozel
  • Patent number: 9857246
    Abstract: In one general aspect, an apparatus can include a sensing membrane including a plurality of conductive fillers included in a matrix. The apparatus can include a plurality of electrical leads coupled to an outer portion of the sensing membrane where the conductive fillers have a volumetric percentage of less than 25% of the volume of the sensing membrane.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 16, 2015
    Date of Patent: January 2, 2018
    Assignee: SENSABLE TECHNOLOGIES, LLC
    Inventors: Anton E. Bowden, David T. Fullwood, Daniel A. Baradoy
  • Patent number: 9857247
    Abstract: A method determines isotropic stress by means of a Hall element which includes a plate-shaped area made of a doped semiconductor material and comprises four contacts contacting the plate-shaped area and forming corners of a quadrangle, two neighboring corners of the quadrangle defining an edge thereof. At least one van der Pauw transresistance value in at least one van der Pauw measurement set-up of the Hall element is determined, wherein the four contacts of the Hall element form contact pairs, a contact pair comprising two contacts defining neighboring corners of the quadrangle. One contact pair supplies a current and the other contact pair measures a voltage. A relationship between the supplied current and the measured voltage defines the Van der Pauw transresistance value. The method comprises determining a stress signal which depends on the at least one Van der Pauw transresistance value and determining isotropic stress.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 7, 2013
    Date of Patent: January 2, 2018
    Assignee: MELEXIS TECHNOLOGIES NV
    Inventors: Samuel Huber, Johan Raman, Pieter Rombouts, Appolonius Jacobus Van Der Wiel
  • Patent number: 9857248
    Abstract: A sensor system for a laminated structure may include a sensor assembly disposed between a first layer and a second layer of the laminated structure. The sensor assembly may include a first anchor member and a second anchor member spaced at a predetermined distance from one another. A sensor chamber is formed between the first and second anchor members. The sensor assembly may also include a sensing line extending through the anchor members and the sensor chamber. The sensing line may include a configuration within the sensor chamber for sensing one of stress forces within the laminated structure, temperature or temperature changes within the laminated structure. A first transport tube may extend from the first anchor member opposite the sensor chamber and a second transport tube may extend from the second anchor member opposite the sensor chamber. The sensing line extends through the first and second transport tubes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 16, 2015
    Date of Patent: January 2, 2018
    Assignee: The Boeing Company
    Inventors: James L. Peck, Jr., Arun Muley
  • Patent number: 9857249
    Abstract: A load and stress of a tensioner may be determined from the change in the strain of the tensioner. The strain of the tensioner may be detected by an optical device having a Fiber Bragg Grating (FBG) that is attached to the tensioner. An electrical signal may be generated in response to the detected change in the mechanical strain of the tensioner by processing the light reflected from an optical fiber coupled to the optical device. The electrical signal may be processed to calculate a load on the tensioner. The calculated load may be stored and analyzed, along with previously-stored values for the load, to determine the condition of the tensioner system, and whether the tensioner system requires maintenance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 2013
    Date of Patent: January 2, 2018
    Assignee: Transocean Sedco Forex Ventures Limited
    Inventor: Aaron Barr
  • Patent number: 9857250
    Abstract: In a strain sensor and a method for installing a strain sensor according to the present invention, a first base fixes and supports one side of an optical fiber. A second base fixes and supports another side of the optical fiber. A connecting member is constituted of a separate member from the first base and the second base and is detachably mounted between the first base and the second base. Tension is applied to the optical fiber in a state in which the connecting member is mounted between the first base and the second base, and the optical fiber is fixed to and supported by the first base and the second base in a state in which tension is applied.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 27, 2014
    Date of Patent: January 2, 2018
    Assignee: CMIWS CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Masahito Wakahara
  • Patent number: 9857251
    Abstract: A load detection apparatus includes a strain element including a first fixation hole into which a fixation member is insertable to be positioned, a second fixation hole into which a connection member is insertable to be positioned, a strain gage, and a fixation support member inserted to be positioned within the first fixation hole, the first fixation hole serving as an elongated bore, the fixation support member including a base portion specified to be greater than the first fixation hole, an intermediate shaft portion protruding from the base portion and fitted to the first fixation hole, and an insertion hole into which the fixation member is inserted to be positioned, the insertion hole being provided in a state where a center position of the insertion hole is displaced relative to a center position of the intermediate shaft portion in a longitudinal direction thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 22, 2016
    Date of Patent: January 2, 2018
    Assignee: AISIN SEIKI KABUSHIKI KAISHA
    Inventors: Kazumasa Seo, Hisayoshi Okuya
  • Patent number: 9857252
    Abstract: A system for, and method of, providing e-assist on a route. A determination may be made of whether terrain data for the route is available. A rider effort level may be determined. The terrain data may be read when available. Whether a change in slope has occurred, or is anticipated to occur, corresponding to a need for an additional input to the rider effort level may be determined. The e-assist level may be adjusted to provide a level that offsets the need for the additional input, or the rider may be informed to provide an increased effort level.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 24, 2015
    Date of Patent: January 2, 2018
    Assignee: GM GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS LLC
    Inventors: Prakash Murugesan, Mark A. Manickaraj, Michael J. Chappell, Andrew M. Zettel
  • Patent number: 9857253
    Abstract: A sensor assembly for a torque sensor including a magnetic flux output device to output a magnetic flux in response to torsion produced between ends of a torsion bar. The sensor assembly includes a magnetic sensor circuit, a holder holding the magnetic sensor circuit and including first and second holder members, and a resin case containing the holder. The magnetic sensor circuit is provided to output a detection value indicating a torque applied to the torsion bar and calculated from the magnetic flux output from the magnetic flux output device. The magnetic sensor circuit has first and second circuit principal surfaces. The magnetic sensor circuit is partially disposed in a space defined by the first and second holder members and a first holder side wall of the first holder member inclined inward and in contact with the second holder member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 25, 2016
    Date of Patent: January 2, 2018
    Assignee: JTEKT CORPORATION
    Inventor: Yuichi Toyama
  • Patent number: 9857254
    Abstract: A torque-measuring device with an acceleration transducer yields more informative measured results. The acceleration transmitter may be inseparably fastened to a carrier which in turn is inseparably joined to a torsion member. The torsion member and the carrier may be formed in one piece with one another. The torsion member may be a shaft and the carrier may be a flange.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 16, 2012
    Date of Patent: January 2, 2018
    Assignee: ATESTEO GMBH
    Inventor: Herbert Meuter
  • Patent number: 9857255
    Abstract: A trailer for a vehicle with a high voltage traction-battery. The trailer may be a self-propelled trailer to substantially match vehicle dynamics and minimize impact on the vehicle. Alternatively, the trailer may push the vehicle to simulate hill descent, or drag on the vehicle to simulate hill ascent. The trailer may provide power for the vehicle. The trailer may provide current to a vehicle electric machine. The trailer may also provide current to recharge a vehicle traction-battery. The trailer may also recharge its own traction-battery.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 22, 2014
    Date of Patent: January 2, 2018
    Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLC
    Inventor: Daniel Lee Hagan
  • Patent number: 9857256
    Abstract: A pressure sensor includes a housing that includes an interior surface and an axially symmetric liner disposed along the interior surface of the housing, where the liner includes an interior surface and an exterior surface. The pressure sensor further includes a sensing member that includes an interior surface and an exterior surface, where the interior surface of the sensing member is adjacent to the exterior surface of the liner, and the sensing member is configured to expand with the liner. The pressure sensor further includes a strain gauge affixed to the exterior surface of the sensing member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 22, 2011
    Date of Patent: January 2, 2018
    Assignee: Corning Incorporated
    Inventor: Stephane Poissy
  • Patent number: 9857257
    Abstract: A control device (1) for a vehicle with a housing (2) having a pressure sensor (3), arranged in a pressure chamber (4) in a pressure-tight manner with respect to the interior space of the housing (2). The housing (2) having a membrane aperture (2.1) closed by an air-permeable but not water-permeable membrane (5). The housing (2) is designed with a housing duct (6) which in an installation position of the control device (1) extends downward in the vertical direction of the vehicle, and in relation to the volume of the pressure chamber (4) the housing duct (6) has a duct volume in such that with the control device (1) completely immersed in water, a residual volume of air remains upstream of the membrane (5).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 22, 2015
    Date of Patent: January 2, 2018
    Assignee: CONTINENTAL TEVES AG & CO. OHG
    Inventors: Jürgen Eckart, Roberto Schlenker, Erwin Kreitmeyr, Claus Heigl
  • Patent number: 9857258
    Abstract: A pressure sensor includes a sensor, an elastic support portion, a membrane, and a pressure detector. The sensor is accommodated in a frame of a base substrate. The elastic support portion is elastically connecting the sensor to the frame. The membrane is disposed on a surface of the sensor. The pressure detector is disposed on the membrane and configured to detect a variation in pressure based on a movement of the membrane.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 5, 2015
    Date of Patent: January 2, 2018
    Assignee: Samsung Electro-Mechanics Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Tae Hun Lee, Chang Hyun Lim, June Kyoo Lee, Dae Hun Jeong
  • Patent number: 9857259
    Abstract: A capacitance-based pressure sensor for measuring a process variable includes a metal sensor body, a diaphragm disposed within a cavity of the metal sensor to form a deflectable capacitor plate, and an insulator extending through the metal sensor body from an end wall to the cavity. The pressure sensor further includes an isolation tube in fluid connection with the cavity, the isolation tube extending into the insulator through the end wall, a stationary capacitor plate on a surface of the insulator in the cavity, the stationary capacitor plate spaced from the diaphragm, and an electrical lead wire connected to the stationary capacitor plate and extending through the insulator parallel to the isolation tube and exiting the insulator at the end wall. A fill fluid is within the isolation tube and the cavity to apply pressure to the diaphragm.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 2014
    Date of Patent: January 2, 2018
    Assignee: Rosemount Inc.
    Inventors: David Andrew Broden, Charles Ray Willcox, Donald Edward Harasyn
  • Patent number: 9857260
    Abstract: In an embodiment, a pressure transducer includes a first portion, a second portion, and a third portion. The third portion is positioned in a cavity contained in the second portion. In addition, a seal is placed in the cavity. The first portion and second include provisions for applying a downward pressure on the third portion when the first portion and the second portion are joined. The downward pressure is applied by the third portion to the seal to seal the cavity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 23, 2015
    Date of Patent: January 2, 2018
    Assignee: SENSATA TECHNOLOGIES, INC.
    Inventors: Michael J. Lavado, Mark C. Carlos, Jan klein Bluemink
  • Patent number: 9857261
    Abstract: The invention relates to a system for measuring a palmar gripping force, comprising a device (1) for measuring said palmar gripping force, which device comprises: a handle configured to receive a palmar gripping force; a force sensor (3); and an electronic module (6) integrated into the device and comprising at least one microcontroller (61) connected to the sensor (3) and able to process data originating from said sensor (3), characterized in that the force sensor comprises a stress gauge with a minimum precision of 50 g; a controlling system is also provided and comprises means able to do the following: calibrate the sensor using a linear calibration curve; and transmit the sensor measurements to a display unit (8) and/or a storage unit and/or a processing unit, preferably via wired or wireless means.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 29, 2013
    Date of Patent: January 2, 2018
    Assignee: INSTITUT DE MYOLOGIE
    Inventor: Jean-Yves Hogrel
  • Patent number: 9857262
    Abstract: A electronic device and method for self-inspecting a waterproof function of the electronic device are provided. The electronic device includes a first sensor for sensing an external condition of the electronic device; a second sensor, which is sealed within the electronic device, for sensing an internal condition of the electronic device; and a controller for comparing values of the external condition and the internal condition sensed by the first sensor and the second sensor, respectively, and determining a status of the waterproof function of the electronic device, based on the comparison.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 6, 2015
    Date of Patent: January 2, 2018
    Assignee: Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd
    Inventors: Kwang-Min Kil, Jae-Sung Lee
  • Patent number: 9857263
    Abstract: A method for a vehicle, comprising: following a vehicle-off event, waking a powertrain control module based on a comparison of an ambient temperature and a bulk fuel temperature; and then initiating an evaporative emissions system leak test. In this way, the evaporative emission leak test may be initiated without waking the powertrain control module arbitrarily. By waking the powertrain control module and initiating the test based on ambient and bulk fuel temperatures the execution rate of the leak test can be increased.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 22, 2014
    Date of Patent: January 2, 2018
    Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLC
    Inventor: Aed M. Dudar
  • Patent number: 9857264
    Abstract: In leak testing by an accumulation method, it is possible to reliably detect accumulated inspection gas, and the reliability of leak testing is enhanced by reduction in background or impurity gas. At least an openable/closeable part 29 of a capsule 20 is housed inside a chamber 10 of a leak testing apparatus 1. A test workpiece 9 is housed in the capsule 20. Gas inside the chamber 10 is evacuated by a vacuum pump 31. A detector 2 detects inspection gas contained in this gas. The capsule 20 is continuously sealed for an accumulation time Ta, the capsule 20 is thereafter opened, and a leak is evaluated on the basis of detection information after the opening by the detector 2.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 14, 2014
    Date of Patent: January 2, 2018
    Assignee: Fukuda Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Takaaki Watanabe, Tsutomu Hara, Naohiko Maruno
  • Patent number: 9857265
    Abstract: An improved sensor system is provided that monitors and controls a dendritic fluid system. A dendritic fluid system can include artificial components and/or natural components that carry fluid from a source to a destination through a series of paths. The sensor system can include magnetic field sensors, acoustic sensors, encapsulated sensor systems, pressure regulators, and valve controllers to monitor and control the dendritic fluid system. For example, magnetic field sensors, acoustic sensors, and/or pressure regulators can be used to measure the flow of fluid within a dendritic fluid subsystem and/or to detect potential leaks. The encapsulated sensor systems and/or valve controllers can be used to detect fluid levels in a contained system and control valves to adjust the fluid levels in the contained system to a desired level.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 14, 2016
    Date of Patent: January 2, 2018
    Inventor: Richard Andrew DeVerse
  • Patent number: 9857266
    Abstract: A method for an engine, comprising: sealing a fuel tank; and indicating fuel system degradation based on a comparison of a first correlation coefficient, determined based on a change in fuel tank pressure and a change in fuel tank temperature, to a second correlation coefficient determined based on a change in ambient pressure and a change in ambient temperature. In this way, leak tests, such as engine-off natural vacuum tests, may be performed without knowledge of the properties of the fuel stored in the fuel tank.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 4, 2014
    Date of Patent: January 2, 2018
    Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: Fling Tseng, Imad Hassan Makki, Aed M. Dudar, Robert Roy Jentz, Dimitar Petrov Filev
  • Patent number: 9857267
    Abstract: In one embodiment, a CO2 leak detection instrument detects leaks from a site (e.g., a CO2 sequestration facility) using rapid concentration measurements of CO2, O2 and optionally water concentration that are achieved, for example, using laser spectroscopy (e.g. direct absorption laser spectroscopy). Water vapor in the sample gas may not be removed, or only partially removed. The sample gas may be collected using a multiplexed inlet assembly from a plurality of locations. CO2 and O2 concentrations may be corrected based on the water concentration. A resulting dataset of the CO2 and O2 concentrations is analyzed over time intervals to detect any changes in CO2 concentration that are not anti-correlated with O2 concentration, and to identify a potential CO2 leak in response thereto. The analysis may include determining eddy covariance flux measurements of sub-surface potential carbon.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 14, 2016
    Date of Patent: January 2, 2018
    Assignee: Aerodyne Research, Inc.
    Inventors: David D. Nelson, Jr., Scott C. Herndon
  • Patent number: 9857268
    Abstract: A remote assistant system capable of measuring a vibration velocity and then determining whether or not warning is required includes a vibration sensor unit which measures a vibration velocity, while transmitting information of a measured value of the measurement every ten minutes. A cloud server receives and saves the information of the measured value, while employing as an effective velocity value only a measured value within a range between an effective upper-limit velocity value and an effective lower-limit velocity value. Then, when a latest moving average value calculated by use of a latest effective velocity value and a saved effective velocity value exceeds a velocity threshold previously set as an upper limit for a vibration velocity in a case not requiring inspection, the cloud server transmits a warning e-mail to that effect to a previously set e-mail address.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 23, 2015
    Date of Patent: January 2, 2018
    Assignee: SINTOKOGIO, LTD.
    Inventors: Minoru Kondo, Kazuhisa Senoo, Kouichi Kusano
  • Patent number: 9857269
    Abstract: A testing device (100) for an EUV optical system (200) includes a generating device (10) configured to generate wavelength variable test spectra for the EUV optical system (200) and a sensor unit configured to detect the test spectra generated by the EUV optical system (200).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 10, 2016
    Date of Patent: January 2, 2018
    Assignee: Carl Zeiss SMT GmbH
    Inventors: Alexander Huebel, Thomas Niederhausen
  • Patent number: 9857270
    Abstract: A rotary stage is controlled to two measurement positions along a rotational direction in which an object surface is moved when detecting a wavefront of reflected light from partial regions by a detector, to move the object surface. Respective placement errors in a trajectory of the object surface at the two measurement positions are measured based on wavefronts detected by the detector in states in which the rotary stage is controlled to each of the two measurement positions. For the remaining measurement positions among the measurement positions, respective placement errors with respect to the trajectory of the object surface are estimated based on the placement errors measured. Before measurement of each item of partial shape data, the rotary stage is controlled to a measurement position and stages are controlled to a position that cancels a placement error at the measurement position to align the object surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 9, 2016
    Date of Patent: January 2, 2018
    Assignee: CANON KABUSHIKI KAISHA
    Inventor: Atsushi Maeda
  • Patent number: 9857271
    Abstract: Systems, methods and devices for evaluating a condition of a downhole component of a drillstring. Methods include estimating a value of a tool parameter of the component at at least one selected position on the drillstring; and using the estimated value to evaluate the condition of the downhole component. The estimating is done using a trained artificial neural network that receives information from at least one sensor that is positionally offset from the selected position. The method may further include creating a record representing information from estimated values of the tool parameter at the at least one selected position over time. The at least one selected position may include a plurality of positions, such as positions at intervals along the component, including substantially continuously along the component.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 10, 2013
    Date of Patent: January 2, 2018
    Assignee: Baker Hughes, a GE company, LLC
    Inventors: Dmitriy Dashevskiy, John D. MacPherson
  • Patent number: 9857272
    Abstract: A wheel monitoring system comprising a wheel, a bearing mechanically coupled to the wheel, an axle mechanically coupled to the bearing, and a wheel speed transducer (WST) disposed in the axle. The WST may be configured to detect vibrations. A method of monitoring a bearing is also provided and may comprise measuring a vibration of the bearing, comparing the vibration of the bearing to a predetermined vibration, and estimating a remaining useful life of the bearing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 2, 2015
    Date of Patent: January 2, 2018
    Assignee: Goodrich Corporation
    Inventors: Paul Summers, Steven Keller, Todd Rook, Michael Kordik