Processes Patents (Class 177/1)
  • Patent number: 11879770
    Abstract: A weighing method has an automatic micro-calibration function. In the method, an automatic adjustment is performed by a self-calibration weighing module. When the result of the adjustment does not meet a requirement, an automatic calibration is performed by the self-calibration weighing module, followed by weighing fine formulation materials. In the weighing method, the self-calibration module is used to perform the automatic calibration function to weigh the fine formulation materials. This provides a high degree of automation, and greatly reduced cost in equipment and labor for a formulating process, saving on time and labor, and with no risk of cross-contamination.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 12, 2021
    Date of Patent: January 23, 2024
    Assignees: Mettler-Toledo (Changzhou) Precision Instruments Ltd, Mettler-Toledo (Changzhou) Measurement Technology Ltd., Mettler-Toledo International Trading (Shanghai) Co., Ltd
    Inventors: Zhengwei Ji, Chunhui Li, ZhiHe Chao
  • Patent number: 11850818
    Abstract: Disclosed are embodiments of a system and method for baling recyclable materials and managing the baling of recyclable materials. The apparatus for baling includes a baler for compressing and baling recyclable materials, a scale, label printer, and a processor. Certain embodiments further comprise at least one digital camera, RFID dispenser, and an internet connection that allows the processor to transmit collected data to a remote database for further analysis. The disclosed method for baling recyclable materials comprising the steps of baling materials; weighing the bale automatically using a digital scale operably connected to the processor; recording the weight of the bale automatically; and printing a label which displays the recorded weight of the bale. Additionally, the method may comprise inputting information and/or automatically recording data, and/or automatically transmitting the data associated with a bale to a remote database.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 3, 2023
    Date of Patent: December 26, 2023
    Assignee: WM INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY HOLDINGS, L.L.C.
    Inventors: Chung Wah Chan, Ricardo J. Perez
  • Patent number: 11796379
    Abstract: Embodiments described herein relate to plant propagation weight measurement apparatus and methods. Load cells are utilized to measure one or more of seedling trays, flood tables, support systems, and combinations thereof. The load cells are integrated in weight measurement systems and configured to enable weight detection of various system components. In certain embodiments, load cells are utilized to measure stationary system components. In other embodiments, load cells are utilized to measure conveyed system components.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 21, 2021
    Date of Patent: October 24, 2023
    Inventors: Damon Smith, Kevin Grauberger, Aunders Hallsten
  • Patent number: 11780190
    Abstract: Disclosed are embodiments of a system and method for baling recyclable materials and managing the baling of recyclable materials. The apparatus for baling includes a baler for compressing and baling recyclable materials, a scale, label printer, and a processor. Certain embodiments further comprise at least one digital camera, RFID dispenser, and an internet connection that allows the processor to transmit collected data to a remote database for further analysis. The disclosed method for baling recyclable materials comprising the steps of baling materials; weighing the bale automatically using a digital scale operably connected to the processor; recording the weight of the bale automatically; and printing a label which displays the recorded weight of the bale. Additionally, the method may comprise inputting information and/or automatically recording data, and/or automatically transmitting the data associated with a bale to a remote database.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 29, 2016
    Date of Patent: October 10, 2023
    Assignee: WM INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY HOLDINGS, L.L.C.
    Inventors: Chung Wah Chan, Ricardo J. Perez
  • Patent number: 11773524
    Abstract: A laundry washing machine and method automate the selection of various operational settings for a wash cycle based in part on color composition data collected from a load of articles using a color detection sensor. In some instances, the capture of color composition data is triggered by detected weight changes sensed by a weight sensor as the load of articles is added to a wash tub, and is based in part on the detection of a stable weight in the wash tub for at least a predetermined duration. In addition, in some instances, color compensation data may be used to characterize a load of articles based in part on a color decision algorithm that assigns pixels in the color compensation data to different color categories.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 18, 2020
    Date of Patent: October 3, 2023
    Assignee: MIDEA GROUP CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Phillip C. Hombroek, Abubakar Abukar, Andrew Perry
  • Patent number: 11719567
    Abstract: A method for controlling an electronic scale in disclosed in this disclosure, which is applied to measure and indicate a state of an external force, comprises the following steps. A weight sensor detects the external force, and a controller drives a prompting device to emit a first light with a first optical characteristic when the external force detected by the weight sensor reaches a first weight. The controller drives the prompting device to emit a second light with a second optical characteristic when the prompting device emits the first light for a predetermined period, wherein the prompting device continuously emits the second light until the external force reaches a second weight.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 26, 2022
    Date of Patent: August 8, 2023
    Assignee: WISTRON CORP.
    Inventors: Chih-Kang Chen, Yu Tao Kao, Jiun Lin Wu, Chien Huang
  • Patent number: 11697581
    Abstract: Systems and techniques for increasing the efficiency of a process of providing a resource by a resource provider are disclosed. In one example, a method detects a presence of a vehicle at a fuel dispenser, transmits an authorization request message automatically in response to detecting the presence of the vehicle, and automatically allows the fuel dispenser to dispense fuel to the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 20, 2017
    Date of Patent: July 11, 2023
    Assignee: VISA INTERNATIONAL SERVICE ASSOCIATION
    Inventors: Jagdeep Sahota, Weiyi Zhou, Lance Weber, Kiran Zaveri, Shiv Bhatt
  • Patent number: 11574352
    Abstract: An autonomous robotic vehicle includes a conveyance system, a securable compartment configured to autonomously lock and unlock, a customer identification reader, at least one processor, and a memory storing instructions which, when executed by the at least one processor, causes the autonomous robotic vehicle to, autonomously: travel to a destination location of a customer; capture, by the customer identification reader at the destination location, a customer identification object; determine that the captured customer identification object matches an identity of the customer; unlock the securable compartment based on the determination; capture, by the product identification reader, a product identifier; and accept a product to be returned by locking the securable compartment. The securable compartment contains a product identification reader.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 6, 2018
    Date of Patent: February 7, 2023
    Assignee: NURO, INC.
    Inventors: David Ferguson, Jiajun Zhu, Cosimo Leipold, Pichayut Jirapinyo
  • Patent number: 11566933
    Abstract: A combination weighing device includes a conveying unit configured to convey articles, a controller configured to perform combination weighing of the articles, and an interface configured to receive an input of information from an operator. The controller has a first operation mode including a first control parameter that defines a conveying operation of the conveying unit and is automatically set in the device, and a second operation mode including a second control parameter that defines the conveying operation of the conveying unit and is set based on the information input from the interface, and when the interface receives an input of the information during an operation of the conveying unit in the first operation mode, the controller makes a transition from the first operation mode to the second operation mode, and controls the operation of the conveying unit using the second control parameter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 31, 2020
    Date of Patent: January 31, 2023
    Assignee: Ishida Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Toshiharu Kageyama, Satoru Kamigaito
  • Patent number: 11488400
    Abstract: Various embodiments herein each include at least one of systems, methods, software, and data structures for context-aided machine vision item differentiation. For example, one method embodiment includes identifying a customer in a shopping area, receiving an image of the customer holding an item, and performing item identification processing on the image to identify the item the customer is holding. The item identification processing, in some embodiments, includes generating a multidimensional feature vector with a data representation of each feature extracted from the image forming each dimension of the multidimensional feature vector. The item identification processing further includes matching the multidimensional feature vector to a stored multidimensional feature vector of a plurality of stored multidimensional feature vectors that are each associated with a respective product and passing a representation of the identified item for use by another process.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 27, 2018
    Date of Patent: November 1, 2022
    Assignee: NCR Corporation
    Inventors: Brent Vance Zucker, Adam Justin Lieberman
  • Patent number: 11467022
    Abstract: A method for controlling an electronic scale in disclosed in this disclosure, which is applied to measure and indicate a state of an external force, comprises the following steps. A weight sensor detects the external force, and a controller drives a prompting device to emit a first light with a first optical characteristic when the external force detected by the weight sensor reaches a first weight. The controller drives the prompting device to emit a second light with a second optical characteristic when the prompting device emits the first light for a predetermined period, wherein the prompting device continuously emits the second light until the external force reaches a second weight.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 28, 2020
    Date of Patent: October 11, 2022
    Assignee: WISTRON CORP.
    Inventors: Chih-Kang Chen, Yu Tao Kao, Jiun Lin Wu, Chien Huang
  • Patent number: 11435251
    Abstract: A control apparatus controls an array-type sensor. The control apparatus includes: a first selector/driver that is configured to select and drive one of a plurality of first lines; a second selector/driver that is configured to select and drive at least one of a plurality of second lines; a read/arithmetic circuit that is configured to read outputs of respective unit cells and perform a correction operation on the outputs; and a nonvolatile storage device that is configured to store reference data. The sensor outputs of the respective unit cells with respect to two or more reference inputs are stored as reference data in the nonvolatile storage device in a calibration mode, and a correction operation is performed on the sensor outputs of the respective unit cells using the stored reference data and results of the correction operation are output in a measurement mode.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 13, 2017
    Date of Patent: September 6, 2022
    Assignee: NEC CORPORATION
    Inventors: Hideaki Numata, Hiroyuki Endoh
  • Patent number: 11402257
    Abstract: An apparatus includes a platform that is supported by a first set of load cells. Output from these load cells may be adversely influenced by factors such as temperature, humidity, aging, and so forth. The device includes a second set of load cells that are unloaded, that is they do not support the platform. Output from the first set of load cells is digitized to produce first digital data while output from the second set of load cells is digitized to produce second digital data. The first digital data and the second digital data are processed to produce compensated data. For example, values of the second digital data may be subtracted from values of the first digital data to produce the compensated data. In other implementations, other processing may be used. The resulting compensated data may be used to provide highly accurate weight data about the platform.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 28, 2020
    Date of Patent: August 2, 2022
    Assignee: AMAZON TECHNOLOGIES, INC.
    Inventors: Behrad Aria, David Buuck
  • Patent number: 11378441
    Abstract: The present invention discloses a weighing and measuring system, comprising a weighing sensor network constituted by networking a plurality of weighing sensors, wherein in the weighing sensor network, each of subtasks into which a weighing task is split is assigned to each of weighing sensors in the weighing sensor network; and each of the weighing sensors respectively and independently executes the assigned subtask and exchanges task data through the weighing sensor network. The weighing sensors collaboratively process a weighing task, which no longer depends on an instrument or a computer, thereby reducing the cost of the whole system, and improving the tolerance level to environment. The collaborative processing mode also avoids the bottleneck of data communication information summarization.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 3, 2018
    Date of Patent: July 5, 2022
    Assignees: Mettler-Toledo (Changzhou) Precision instruments Co., Ltd., Mettler-Toledo (Changzhou) Measurement Technology Co., Ltd., Mettler-Toledo International Trading (Shanghai) Co., Ltd
    Inventors: Feng Dai, Jianqiang Yang, GuoJun Xie, Jinquan Yu, Wenming Mao, Dake Tan
  • Patent number: 11341346
    Abstract: This disclosure includes a parcel terminal that may include a shelving unit comprising a plurality of shelves that are separated by respective predetermined distances along a dimension of the unit. In an embodiment, the plurality of shelves may be evenly spaced. The parcel terminal may further include a receptacle for receiving a parcel from a user, a loader configured to transfer the parcel from the receptacle to a shelf on the shelving unit, and an electronic controller in electronic communication with the loader. The electronic controller may be configured to determine a number of open shelves required to accommodate the parcel based on a size of the parcel and on the respective predetermined distances, to select a set of shelves having at least the required number of open shelves, and to initiate a movement of the loader so as to place the parcel within the selected set of shelves.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 27, 2020
    Date of Patent: May 24, 2022
    Assignee: Cleveron AS
    Inventors: Remi Lõssov, Lauri Hirvesaar, Mikk Noorkõiv, Mart Roht
  • Patent number: 11333547
    Abstract: A method at a computing device, the method including obtaining sensor data for a vehicle providing vibration frequency and magnitude; calculating an energy for each of a low frequency passband and a high frequency passband of a bandpass filter pair; finding an energy ratio based on the energy for the low frequency passband and the energy for the high frequency passband; applying weighting constants to each of the energy for the low frequency passband, the energy for the high frequency passband and the energy ratio to calculate a decision variable; and finding that the vehicle is unloaded if the decision variable is below a threshold and finding that the vehicle is loaded if the decision variable is above a threshold.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 25, 2019
    Date of Patent: May 17, 2022
    Assignee: BlackBerry Limited
    Inventors: Shouxing Qu, Gaëlle Christine Martin-Cocher, Suresh Periyalwar, Yu Gao, Sameh Ayoub
  • Patent number: 11272667
    Abstract: A scale controller system and method of using the system is disclosed. The scale controller is adapted for use with a grain cart or similar implement that includes a discharge opening and conveyor. The system includes a scale and a plurality of sensors that work together to automate numerous functions that are typically performed manually. For example, the present invention discloses a system that automatically records the amount of material loaded or unloaded by continuously monitoring the load on a scale and the RPMs of a power take-off shaft that drives a conveyor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 18, 2019
    Date of Patent: March 15, 2022
    Assignee: Digi-Star, LLC
    Inventors: Jerome Bump, Steven L. Johansen, Ronald J. Schlimgen, Michael D. Van Mill, Shawn W. Gerdeman
  • Patent number: 11248949
    Abstract: In aspects of a wireless hand sensory apparatus for weight monitoring, a wearable article is worn by a user who moves items. A tracking system is implemented in the wearable article, and the tracking system includes a force sensor, or force sensors, in the wearable article to register a force on an item. The tracking system includes tracking logic that determines a weight of the item based on the force on the item. The tracking system may also include a motion sensor to sense motion of the wearable article, and the tracking logic determines how the item is moved based on the motion of the wearable article. The tracking logic can also determine the weight of the item based on the force on the item in combination with a speed of the motion of the wearable article.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 10, 2017
    Date of Patent: February 15, 2022
    Assignee: Motorola Mobility LLC
    Inventors: Scott P. DeBates, Douglas Alfred Lautner, Jagatkumar V. Shah, Mary Khun Hor-Lao
  • Patent number: 11247855
    Abstract: <Problem> It is an object of the present invention to provide a timing hopper that inhibits the occurrence of the problem that articles end up getting stuck inside the timing hopper and are not normally discharged. <Solution> A timing hopper 9 includes a first member 91, a second member 92, and a gate 9a. The first member 91 has a first opening 91a to which articles A are input. The second member 92 has a second opening 92a from which the articles A are discharged. The gate 9a opens and closes the second opening 92a. The first member 91 has a first side wall 91b and a second side wall 91c. The second side wall 91c opposes the first side wall 91b. The second member 92 has a third side wall 92b and a fourth side wall 92c. The third side wall 92b is continuously connected to the first side wall 91b. The fourth side wall 92c opposes the third side wall 92b and is continuously connected to the second side wall 91c.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 3, 2020
    Date of Patent: February 15, 2022
    Assignee: ISHIDA CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Mikio Kishikawa
  • Patent number: 11245875
    Abstract: A camera system is configured to automatically monitor an area. Depth image(s) of the area are acquired based on active IR light emitted by the camera system and reflected from the area to a sensor array of the camera system. The depth image(s) are computer analyzed to identify a human subject. For each spectral illuminator of the camera system, spectral light image(s) of the area are acquired based on active spectral light in the spectral light sub-band of the spectral illuminator reflected from the area to the sensor array. The spectral light image(s) for the spectral illuminators are computer analyzed to identify an interaction between the human subject and an object in the area. In response to identifying the interaction between the human subject and the object in the area, an action to be performed for the object in the area is computer issued.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 15, 2019
    Date of Patent: February 8, 2022
    Assignee: Microsoft Technology Licensing, LLC
    Inventors: Sergio Ortiz Egea, Riaz Imdad Ali, Michael Scott Fenton, Onur Can Akkaya
  • Patent number: 11237037
    Abstract: A hydraulic mass-determining unit arranged for determining the mass of a load held by a hydraulic fluid system, the mass-determining unit is adapted to be connected to a hydraulic pump at a first fluid connection and a hydraulic actuator of a lifting device at a second fluid connection, the mass-determining unit comprises a first pipe arranged for connecting the first fluid connection and the second fluid connection, and at least one pressure sensor arranged to measure the pressure in the first pipe, wherein the mass-determining unit further comprises a flow regulator with a pressure compensator, where the flow regulator is serially connected to the first pipe to regulate the flow in the first pipe, and one of a pressure switch arranged for measuring the pressure difference over the flow regulator, and for sending a signal to the pressure sensor to measure the pressure in the first pipe when the pressure difference is above a preset value, or a magnetic field switch that comprises a magnet attached to the pre
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 6, 2021
    Date of Patent: February 1, 2022
    Assignee: GRIPTECH B.V.
    Inventors: Knud-Erik Larsen, Robert Servaas Matti
  • Patent number: 11226225
    Abstract: A work vehicle, a method of determining a weight of a payload supported by a work tool mounted to an upper structure of a work vehicle, and a method of calibrating a weight of a payload supported by a work tool mounted to an upper structure of a work vehicle are provided. The work vehicle includes an undercarriage having a plurality of ground engaging members supporting the work vehicle, an upper structure rotatable relative to the undercarriage about a vertical axis, a rotation sensor configured to determine a rotation angle of the upper structure relative to the undercarriage, a work tool mounted to the upper structure and configured to support a payload, and a controller configured to determine a weight of the payload based at least partially on the rotation angle of the upper structure relative to the undercarriage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 23, 2019
    Date of Patent: January 18, 2022
    Assignee: DEERE & COMPANY
    Inventor: Lance R. Sherlock
  • Patent number: 11156495
    Abstract: Method for controlling a weighing device (DP) via a terminal (TER), comprising the following steps: using the terminal (TER) to generate and/or acquire a piece of control information (Cde) comprising at least one refresh (Ins_ra) or update instruction (Ins_ac) relating to a refresh or update cyclic period and/or duty cycle of a function of at least one functional element (F) of the weighing device (DP), and sending said piece of control information (Cde) to the control entity (C), and controlling method internal to a weighing device (DP) comprising the following steps: receiving a piece of control information (Cde) originating from a terminal (TER), and adapting the refresh or update cyclic period and/or duty cycle of said function of the at least one functional element (F) depending on the at least one received refresh (Ins_ra) or update (Ins_ac) instruction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 20, 2016
    Date of Patent: October 26, 2021
    Assignee: SEB S.A.
    Inventors: Stéphane Daniel Paul Caregnato, Sébastien Drode, Stéphane Suchet, Philippe Masson
  • Patent number: 11131576
    Abstract: A work vehicle includes a working device which is configured to excavate and unload soil, a load meter which is configured to measure weight of the soil loaded by the working device, a transport vehicle specifier which is configured to specify a transport vehicle to be loaded with the soil, a vehicle weight acquirer which is configured to acquire vehicle weight information on loadable weight of the transport vehicle, a load weight calculator which calculates load weight of the soil loaded on the transport vehicle, according to the weight measured by the load meter, and an output unit which is configured to output information on a remaining loading capacity of the transport vehicle obtained from the vehicle weight information and the load weight.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 26, 2017
    Date of Patent: September 28, 2021
    Assignee: Komatsu Ltd.
    Inventor: Chikashi Shike
  • Patent number: 11110911
    Abstract: There is provided a measurement device including a data acquisition unit that acquires pieces of first to third data output from first to third sensors provided on a structure, an abnormality determination unit that determines whether or not each of the sensors is abnormal, a moving object detection unit that detects a moving object based on at least one of the first data and the second data, and a displacement amount calculation unit that calculates a displacement amount of the structure based on the third data, in which, when the first sensor provided on a main girder closest to an i-th lane of the structure or a main girder second closest to the i-th lane is not abnormal, the moving object detection unit detects the moving object moving on the i-th lane based on the first data output from the first sensor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 31, 2020
    Date of Patent: September 7, 2021
    Assignee: Seiko Epson Corporation
    Inventor: Keishi Omori
  • Patent number: 11113483
    Abstract: A radio frequency identification system comprising: a measuring assembly configured to measure a physical quantity of an object to output a first data associated with the object, a loop antenna configured to be attached to the object, wherein the loop antenna has an IC chip storing a second data associated with the object, a radiation pattern disposed at the measuring assembly and a transreceiver in signal-transmittable connection to the measuring assembly, with the transreceiver configured to perform at least one of sending the first data and receiving the second data when the loop antenna and the radiation pattern are electromagnetically coupled to each other, wherein the IC chip stores the first data when the transreceiver sends the first data, and the measuring assembly receives the second data and outputs a message having the first data and the second data when the transreceiver receives the second data.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 16, 2019
    Date of Patent: September 7, 2021
    Assignee: CYMMETRIK ENTERPRISE CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Shan-Jen Kuo, Frank Shang-Teng Chan, Yosephine Yulia Margaretha, Jen-Chieh Wei, Shao-Ming Kao
  • Patent number: 11100194
    Abstract: A method at a computing device, the method including obtaining a cargo load signal measurement; and applying an estimator to the cargo load signal measurement, the estimator being in the form of {circumflex over (x)}=ay+bZ, where {circumflex over (x)} is an estimate of a true signal vector, y is the cargo load signal measurement, Z is a calculated or pre-determined reference vector, and a and b are weighting factors.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 1, 2018
    Date of Patent: August 24, 2021
    Assignee: BlackBerry Limited
    Inventors: Yu Gao, Sandeep Chennakeshu, Jesse William Bennett, Scott Leonard Dill
  • Patent number: 11092476
    Abstract: Provided is a scaling and monitoring system for remotely weighing, monitoring, and measuring volumes of rubber buffings (also referred to in text as “shavings” or “dust”) produced by commercial tire retreading plants and other materials. The method utilizes a custom scale system installed underneath a shipping container or a semi van trailer, container, or other collection and storage unit or area. The custom scale system feeds weight data to a PLC and VPN/gateway-based control panel which processes and relays information to the Internet, thus allowing all accessible and recorded data to be remotely collected and viewed for the purpose of optimizing rubber dust collection and processing and minimizing overhead costs associated with such processes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 18, 2018
    Date of Patent: August 17, 2021
    Assignee: Spartan Enterrises, Inc.
    Inventors: Dave Little, Andy Little, Allen Rider
  • Patent number: 11085810
    Abstract: A hydraulic mass-determining unit arranged for determining the mass of a load held by a hydraulic fluid system, the mass-determining unit is adapted to be connected to a hydraulic pump at a first fluid connection and a hydraulic actuator of a lifting device at a second fluid connection, the mass-determining unit comprises a first pipe arranged for connecting the first fluid connection and the second fluid connection, and at least one pressure sensor arranged to measure the pressure in the first pipe, wherein the mass-determining unit further comprises a flow regulator with a pressure compensator, where the flow regulator is serially connected to the first pipe to regulate the flow in the first pipe, and one of a pressure switch arranged for measuring the pressure difference over the flow regulator, and for sending a signal to the pressure sensor to measure the pressure in the first pipe when the pressure difference is above a preset value, or a magnetic field switch that comprises a magnet attached to the pre
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 6, 2018
    Date of Patent: August 10, 2021
    Assignee: GRIPTECH B.V.
    Inventors: Knud-Erik Larsen, Robert Servaas Matti
  • Patent number: 11041589
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a system, apparatus and method for safety control, the system comprising: a first device, which provides information capable of being used to determine whether a single staff member is present in a target area; a second device, which may be arranged at an entrance of a designated area, and used for controlling the entry of staff into the designated area; at least one sensing device, for detecting whether an activated transmitting unit, required to be carried by a staff member entering the designated area, is present in the target area; and a control device, for causing the second device to allow a staff member located in the target area to enter the designated area, when it is determined that a single staff member is present in the target area on the basis of the information from the first device and it is determined using the at least one sensing device that the activated transmitting unit is present in the target area.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 25, 2016
    Date of Patent: June 22, 2021
    Assignee: Robert Bosch GmbH
    Inventors: Huajun Yu, Patrick Poa, Mingliang Zhang, Wei Wang
  • Patent number: 11033143
    Abstract: A weigh scale unit may be used in conjunction with a beverage preparation machine to prepare beverages efficiently. The weigh scale unit may provide the status of ingredient addition to a beverage receptacle. The weigh scale unit may send instructions and/or data to the beverage preparation machine. In some embodiments, the beverage preparation machine sends instructions and/or data to the weigh scale unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 15, 2019
    Date of Patent: June 15, 2021
    Assignee: Island Oasis Frozen Cocktail Company, Inc.
    Inventors: John Michael Herbert, Bryan Hotaling, John Macneill, Scott Leclerc, Matthew Naples, Patrick Devine
  • Patent number: 11015404
    Abstract: A system for measuring drill cuttings may comprise a conveyor belt disposed below a shaker, wherein the shaker disposes the drill cuttings on to the conveyor belt, and an imaging system connected to the conveyor belt by a frame, wherein the frame positions the imaging system to form a field of view on the conveyor belt with the imaging system. The system may further include an information handling system configured to operate the shaker and the conveyor belt. A method for identifying a size of drill cuttings may comprise dropping drill cuttings on a conveyor belt from a shaker, operating the conveyor belt to move the drill cuttings through a field of view, viewing the drill cuttings in the field of view with an imaging system, and sizing the drill cuttings based at least in part on one or more calibration blocks attached to the conveyor belt.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 16, 2019
    Date of Patent: May 25, 2021
    Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventors: Prashant Shekhar, Abhijit Kulkarni
  • Patent number: 11009386
    Abstract: A combination weighing apparatus includes a plurality of hoppers a conveying unit; a weighing unit; a controller; and a setting unit, the controller executing the combination weighing based on a measured value acquired in a cycle in which the combination weighing failed and corresponding to the articles that were forcibly discharged from at least some of the hoppers and measuring values associated with the respective hoppers weighed in a cycle after the cycle in which the combination weighing failed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 24, 2016
    Date of Patent: May 18, 2021
    Assignee: Ishida Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Satoru Kamigaito, Hiroe Konishi
  • Patent number: 10988275
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for producing product packages comprises operating first and second feedback control loops where product package weight is averaged and used to determine one of two possible adjustments to change the product fill rate and the volume of the product. The feedback loops operate in one of a plurality of index levels. The first feedback loop seeks to improve performance by making adjustments to the fill rate and volume of the product, while incrementally moving to more stable index levels requiring tighter tolerances and package weight averages based on more product packages. The second feedback loop seeks to preserve stability by making its own adjustments to the fill rate and volume of the product if large product package weight fluctuations are sensed. The second feedback loop can move operation to less stable index levels having wider tolerances and package weight averages based on fewer product packages.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 17, 2018
    Date of Patent: April 27, 2021
    Assignee: Cryovac, LLC
    Inventors: Daniel D. Bean, William R. Wilson
  • Patent number: 10989585
    Abstract: Methods and apparatus to measure mass in low gravity environments are disclosed. A disclosed example low-gravity mass-measuring apparatus includes a coupler to couple a coupling portion to an object, the coupling portion including a first inertial measurement unit (IMU), a force device to provide a force to cause a movement of a dock relative to the coupling portion, where the dock is releasably couplable to the coupling portion and includes a second IMU, and a processor to calculate a mass of the object based on movement data from the first and second IMUs and the force.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 19, 2018
    Date of Patent: April 27, 2021
    Assignee: The Boeing Company
    Inventor: Kevin Cannon
  • Patent number: 10982993
    Abstract: An overload detection processing apparatus, an overload detection system and a computer-readable recording medium storing a program capable of determining overload more accurately are provided. An overload detection processing apparatus for determining a vehicle whose loading weight exceeds a predetermined reference is provided with a processor. The processor acquires a determination value relating to magnitude of deformation of a tire from image data obtained by photographing the tire of the vehicle and determines whether or not the loading weight of the vehicle exceeds a predetermined reference based on data corresponding to the determination value and a situation relating to the tire.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 11, 2019
    Date of Patent: April 20, 2021
    Assignee: KONICA MINOLTA INC.
    Inventors: Takumi Kaseda, Asahi Ebe
  • Patent number: 10960874
    Abstract: The invention is a system for automatically adjusting drive modes based on weight. The system includes a weight determination system, a data input device configured to receive input data, and a processing device. The processing devices includes a processor and non-volatile memory. The processor is configured to receive weight data from the weight determination system, receive the input data from the data input device, and receive a user input. The processor is also configured to determine at least one drive mode setting based on the weight data, the input data and the user input, send the drive mode setting data to a vehicle control system, and communicate the drive mode setting to a user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 20, 2018
    Date of Patent: March 30, 2021
    Assignee: Hall Labs LLC
    Inventors: David R. Hall, Michael Hall, Seth Myer
  • Patent number: 10948337
    Abstract: A control device for combination weighing apparatuses includes: an acquisition unit capable of acquiring, from a plurality of combination weighing apparatuses, parameters relating to combination weighing that are set for the combination weighing apparatuses; and a controller configured to collect the parameters from the combination weighing apparatuses from which acquiring the parameters via the acquisition unit is possible, to generate, based on the collected parameters, setting parameters to set for some of the combination weighing apparatuses among the combination weighing apparatuses from which acquiring via the acquisition unit is possible, and to transmit the setting parameters to some of the combination weighing apparatuses from which acquiring via the acquisition unit is possible.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 10, 2017
    Date of Patent: March 16, 2021
    Assignee: Ishida Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Toshiharu Kageyama, Shinya Ikeda
  • Patent number: 10935310
    Abstract: An inventory system for a refrigerator appliance includes an inventory plate which is operably coupled to a load cell and positioned within a chilled chamber. The inventory plate may be a fixed shelf or a portable coaster on which food items may be placed. A controller is configured for monitoring a weight of the food items over time using the load cell and/or a moisture content using a moisture sensor and providing an indication of food quality based at least in part on the weight and/or moisture content of the food items.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 18, 2018
    Date of Patent: March 2, 2021
    Assignee: Haier US Appliance Solutions, Inc.
    Inventors: Brent Alden Junge, John Keith Besore, Michael C. Watanabe
  • Patent number: 10929969
    Abstract: Disclosed herein are apparatus, systems and methods of measuring the weight and distribution of the fluff pulp and super absorbent polymer (SAP) or absorbent gelling material (AGM) of absorbent articles. The apparatus may be located at a position after the absorbent cores are formed. Each absorbent article is passed between the light emitter and the camera as well as between the radio transmitter and the radio detector. The camera and radio detector receive the signal transmitted by the light emitter and the radio transmitter respectively through the absorbent articles. The encoder synchronizes the transmission of data by the camera and the radio receiver to the movement of the web. The computer receives the signal data from radio detector and the image data from the camera from each absorbent article and uses the data to determine at least the weight of the fluff pulp and SAP/AGM in the absorbent core.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 25, 2016
    Date of Patent: February 23, 2021
    Assignee: AccuSentry, Inc.
    Inventors: Wei Siong Tan, Stephen Wachtel, Tjendera Santoso, Patrick Lizana, David Kosen
  • Patent number: 10925289
    Abstract: A method for processing and batching food items in a food processing system according to a predefined batch target criterion, comprises the steps of conveying a food item to weight determining means, determining the weight of the food item by means of the weight determining means, and processing the determined weight of the food item together with a weight of a plurality of food items. The processing includes dynamically generating a control-cutting signal. The method further comprises determining if the dynamically generated control cutting signal indicates that cutting off a part of the food item will increase a prospect to meet the predefined batch target criterion, and in the confirmative convey the food item to a separation device wherein a part of the food item is cut off.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 18, 2017
    Date of Patent: February 23, 2021
    Assignee: MAREL A/S
    Inventors: Henning Skrædderdal, Henrik Kristiansen
  • Patent number: 10895492
    Abstract: The invention is a monitoring system for determining a vehicle safety setting based on weight. The system includes a monitoring station, a weight determination system, a data input device configured to receive input data, and a processing device. The processing devices includes a processor and non-volatile memory. The processor is configured to receive load ratings for a tow vehicle and tow equipment, receive weight data from the weight determination system, and receive the input data from the data input device. The processor is also configured to determine at least one safety setting based on the load ratings, the weight data, and the input data, send the safety setting data to the monitoring system, and communicate the safety setting to a user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 4, 2018
    Date of Patent: January 19, 2021
    Assignee: Hall Labs LLC
    Inventors: David R. Hall, Michael Hall, Seth Myer
  • Patent number: 10883911
    Abstract: In various embodiments, a method for determining at least one pore-related parameter of a porous structure is provided. The method includes supplying a volatile liquid into a chamber. The method also includes coating a first surface of the porous structure with an evaporation preventing substance. The method further includes placing the coated porous structure within the chamber. The method additionally includes determining an effective mass of the chamber over a period of time. The method also includes determining the at least one pore-related parameter of an uncoated second surface of the coated porous structure based on the effective mass determined. The second surface of the porous structure is opposite the first surface of the porous structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 26, 2017
    Date of Patent: January 5, 2021
    Assignee: NANYANG TECHNOLOGICAL UNIVERSITY
    Inventors: Farhad Zamani, Ebrahim Akhondi, Jia Wei Chew, William Bernard Krantz, Anthony Gordon Fane
  • Patent number: 10843362
    Abstract: The apparatus for detecting physical characteristics of food products, such as poultry, meat or fish, includes: a conveyor for transporting the products; a floating belt, located above the conveyor so as to define an analysis zone (Z) therebetween; a first and a second detecting device, located on opposite sides of an advancement path, each adapted to acquire a multiplicity of partial profiles of the products in the analysis zone (Z), a processing unit connected to the first and second detecting devices and including a first shape module configured to determine the conformation of the external surface of a first portion of the product, based on the partial profiles acquired by the first detecting device; and a second shape module (62) configured to determine the conformation of the external surface of a second portion of the product, based on the partial profiles acquired by the second detecting device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 3, 2018
    Date of Patent: November 24, 2020
    Assignee: GRASSELLI S.P.A.
    Inventor: Giorgio Grasselli
  • Patent number: 10845184
    Abstract: A method of operating a dimensioning system to determine dimensional information for objects is disclosed. A number of images are acquired. Objects in at least one of the acquired images are computationally identified. One object represented in the at least one of the acquired images is computationally initially selected as a candidate for processing. An indication of the initially selected object is provided to a user. At least one user input indicative of an object selected for processing is received. Dimensional data for the object indicated by the received user input is computationally determined.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 5, 2018
    Date of Patent: November 24, 2020
    Assignee: INTERMEC IP CORPORATION
    Inventors: Virginie Benos, Vincent Bessettes, Franck Laffargue
  • Patent number: 10837822
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a method and a weighing scale for weighing vehicles, the weighing scale comprising a weighing bridge having a first and second side for entering and leaving the weighing bridge; a weighing circuit comprising a first set of load sensors and a second set of load sensors coupled to a weight indicator, the first set of load sensors being arranged at the first side and the second set of load sensors being arranged at the second side; a measuring circuit arranged to measure at least one unbalance current in the weighing circuit when a vehicle enters or leaves the weighing bridge; a processing circuit arranged to determine at least one point in time when wheels of the vehicle enter the first side or leave the second side based on the at least one unbalance current.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 21, 2017
    Date of Patent: November 17, 2020
    Assignee: MOTUS WEIGHING AB
    Inventors: Stefan Valdemarsson, Marcus Timmerman
  • Patent number: 10815032
    Abstract: A temperature compensated bellows is provided for storage and displacement of a first fluid used as an indicator in a capillary tube. The bellows is made of a housing made of flexible, watertight material. The housing is made up of an upper portion, a lower portion, and an outer accordion formed portion. The accordion formed portion has a length/and is sealingly connected along a periphery between the upper and lower portions. At least one entry/exit port formed on at least one of the portions thereof. At least one of the upper and lower portions extends from a periphery of the accordion formed portion substantially within the housing so as to reduce the storage volume. Preferably, within this area defined by the portion which extends within the housing, a temperature compensation device is disposed. This device is made up of a miniature bellows and reservoir in which a second fluid is placed having a coefficient of expansion which is different than the first fluid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 12, 2013
    Date of Patent: October 27, 2020
    Assignee: PRECIFLEX SA
    Inventor: Lucien Vouillamoz
  • Patent number: 10817692
    Abstract: This disclosure includes a parcel terminal that may include a shelving unit comprising a plurality of shelves that are separated by respective predetermined distances along a dimension of the unit. In an embodiment, the plurality of shelves may be evenly spaced. The parcel terminal may further include a receptable for receiving a parcel from a user, a loader configured to transfer the parcel from the receptacle to a shelf on the shelving unit, and an electronic controller in electronic communication with the loader. The electronic controller may be configured to determine a number of open shelves required to accommodate the parcel based on a size of the parcel and on the respective predetermined distances, to select a set of shelves having at least the required number of open shelves, and to initiate a movement of the loader so as to place the parcel within the selected set of shelves.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 3, 2019
    Date of Patent: October 27, 2020
    Assignee: Cleveron AS
    Inventors: Remi Lõssov, Lauri Hirvesaar, Mikk Noorkõiv, Mart Roht
  • Patent number: 10809120
    Abstract: A WIM system for detecting loads of vehicles on a roadway segment when a crossing wheel of a vehicle crosses a WIM sensor includes a WIM sensor arranged in the roadway segment and having a section that is flush with the roadway surface. The WIM sensor includes an elongated profile extending along a longitudinal axis and defining at least one space in which is arranged at least one force sensor, which is configured to generate a force sensor signal that corresponds to a dynamic ground reaction force to the crossing wheel. The WIM system includes at least one acceleration sensor that detects an acceleration of the road surface of the roadway segment in which the WIM sensor is arranged in at least one spatial direction and that accordingly provides an acceleration sensor signal indicative of the deflection of the roadway segment along the one spatial direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 3, 2018
    Date of Patent: October 20, 2020
    Assignee: KISTLER HOLDING, AG
    Inventors: Dennis Minkoley, Biruk Hailesilassie
  • Patent number: 10775225
    Abstract: A WIM system for detecting loads of vehicles on a roadway segment when a crossing wheel of a vehicle crosses a WIM sensor includes a WIM sensor arranged in the roadway segment and having a section that is flush with the roadway surface. The WIM sensor includes an elongated profile extending along a longitudinal axis and defining at least one space in which is arranged at least one force sensor, which is configured to generate a force sensor signal that corresponds to a dynamic ground reaction force to the crossing wheel. The WIM system includes at least one acceleration sensor that detects an acceleration of the road surface of the roadway segment in which the WIM sensor is arranged in at least one spatial direction and that accordingly provides an acceleration sensor signal indicative of the deflection of the roadway segment along the one spatial direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 3, 2018
    Date of Patent: September 15, 2020
    Assignee: KISTLER HOLDING, AG
    Inventors: Dennis Minkoley, Biruk Hailesilassie