Fluid Transmission To Pressure Gauge Patents (Class 177/208)
  • Patent number: 11733085
    Abstract: Weigh-in-motion sensors comprise a beam including a plate with a load-bearing surface, and a tube portion including a base wall and a cover and defining a cavity therebetween. A sensing package is disposed within the cavity and is under pre-load with the cover and the base wall. The sensing package comprises a piezoelectric element. The base wall includes an aperture extending from a mounting surface to the cavity. The aperture includes a fastener therein to secure the sensing package within the cavity. The fastener is sized having a cross-section dimension taken through a center axis of the fastener that is greater than that of a cross-section dimension of the piezoelectric element taken along the fastener center axis. In an example, the fastener has a cross-section dimension sized about 10 percent or greater in dimension than that of the respective cross-section dimension of the piezoelectric element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 10, 2021
    Date of Patent: August 22, 2023
    Assignees: TE CONNECTIVITY SOLUTIONS GMBH, MEASUREMENT SPECIALTIES (CHINA) LTD.
    Inventors: Michael Pedrick, Shenghua Liu, Benxiang Wang, Ling Qiu, Zhong Luo, Weixing Fu
  • Patent number: 11725977
    Abstract: This disclosure describes a collection bin for a waste collection vehicle. The collection bin includes a weighing system with a processor for measuring the weight of material collected from each waste container and associating this weight with appropriate data, such as the owner of the waste container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 14, 2021
    Date of Patent: August 15, 2023
    Assignee: The Heil Co.
    Inventor: John Michael Curotto
  • Patent number: 11519776
    Abstract: Methods and systems for estimating an axle load of a vehicle are described. In one example, a method is disclosed wherein axle load is estimated in response to an angle between two components of an axle. The angle may change as weight is added to or removed from the axle such that axle load may be determined as a function of the angle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 29, 2020
    Date of Patent: December 6, 2022
    Assignee: Dana Heavy Vehicle Systems Group, LLC
    Inventors: Mark A. Davis, Anthony N. Passero, Stoyan I. Stoychev
  • Patent number: 11445836
    Abstract: A shelving assembly is provided for a container. The shelving assembly includes a first shelf movably positioned in the container and configured to support a first stock. The shelving assembly further includes a plurality of first support members configured to support the first shelf and displace the first shelf between a first position and a second position in the container based on a weight sensed by at least one first weight sensor to maintain the first stock at an opening of the container. Additionally, the shelving assembly includes a second shelf positioned adjacent within the container and configured to support a second stock. The first shelf is configured to be removed at the second position to facilitate the first stock descending onto the second stock on the second shelf. Accordingly, the shelving assembly facilitates first in first out stock rotation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 25, 2019
    Date of Patent: September 20, 2022
    Assignee: TOSHIBA TEC KABUSHIKI KAISHA
    Inventors: Rahul Gupta, Kathiresan Selvaraj
  • Patent number: 11440779
    Abstract: The lifting platform (10) has at least two lateral pillars (12, 14, 33). Each pillar has height-changeable, pivotable arms (13, 34, 44) that are displaceable telescopically in length. An end of each arm has a decoupling device with a receptacle (31, 41) for supporting an object. A carrying device (11, 50) has receiving points corresponding to the number of the receptacles (31, 41). The lifting platform and the carrying device are positioned with respect to each other without impairing an object resting on the at least one receptacle. The at least one receptacle (31, 41) is placed onto the at least one receiving point, and the carrying device (11, 50) together with the transferred at least one receptacle (31, 41) and an object thereon is removed from a region of the lifting platform (10).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 21, 2017
    Date of Patent: September 13, 2022
    Assignee: Porsche AG
    Inventors: Ralf Ringler, Peter Horn
  • Patent number: 11378440
    Abstract: A load balance system including first and second load indicators visible outside of a vehicle having a bed, first and second load sensors configured to sense respective first and second load weights in respective first and second bed areas. The load balance system includes a controller in communication with the first and second load sensors and the first and second load indicators. The controller is configured to activate the first and second load indicators to generate the same first and second outputs in response to detection of respective first and second load weights that are less than a predetermined threshold value. The controller is configured to activate the first and second load indicators to generate different first and second outputs in response to the detection of respective first and second load weights when one of the first and the second load weights is above the predetermined threshold value.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 13, 2019
    Date of Patent: July 5, 2022
    Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: Stuart C. Salter, David Brian Glickman, Phillip Marine, Hussein Berry
  • Patent number: 10900826
    Abstract: A person support apparatus, such as a bed, stretcher, recliner, cot, or the like, includes a frame, a plurality of load cells, a support surface supported by the load cells, a detection circuit, and a controller. The controller determines if any of the load cells are in an error state based upon information from the detection circuit. If the load cells include memory having calibration data stored therein, the controller communicates with the memory and uses the calibration data to determine an amount of weight supported on the surface. The detection circuit may include one or more Wheatstone bridges wherein the controller monitors voltages between midpoints of the Wheatstone bridges. The load cells may include an activation lead that is monitored by the detection circuit and a sensor lead that is used by the controller to determine an amount of weight supported on the patient support apparatus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 26, 2019
    Date of Patent: January 26, 2021
    Assignee: Stryker Corporation
    Inventors: Marko N. Kostic, Michael Joseph Hayes, Daniel Vincent Brosnan, Aaron Douglas Furman, Jason A. Vanderplas
  • Patent number: 10782178
    Abstract: A load transfer mechanism includes an elongated beam and a sensing package. The beam includes a plate with a load-bearing surface, a tube portion, and a neck. The tube portion includes a base wall and a cover and defines a cavity between the base wall and the cover. The base wall laterally extends from a first edge to a second edge that is opposite the first edge. The cover is joined to the base wall at or proximate to the first and second edges. The neck extends between and joins the plate to the cover of the tube portion. The sensing package is disposed within the cavity of the beam and is under pre-load in engagement with the cover and the base wall. The sensing package is configured to measure forces exerted on the load-bearing surface of the plate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 29, 2018
    Date of Patent: September 22, 2020
    Assignees: TE CONNECTIVITY CORPORATION, TYCO ELECTRONICS (SHANGHAI) CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Michael Pedrick, Shenghua Liu, Chengya Xiong
  • Patent number: 10775227
    Abstract: A weigh module (100) comprises a load cell (4), a supporting member (1), a connecting member (23) and a sealing member (3). The supporting member (1) comprises a receiving hole (13) extending vertically and thoroughly. The connecting member (23) comprises a fixing end (231) fixed to the load cell (4) and a limiting end (232) extending into the receiving hole (13). The limiting end (232) is configured to prevent the supporting member (1) from getting rid of the connecting member (23). The sealing member (3) comprises a first end (311) fixed to the supporting member (1), a second end (321) fixed to the load cell (4) and a raised portion (323).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 24, 2017
    Date of Patent: September 15, 2020
    Assignees: Mettler-Toledo Precision Instrument Company Limited, Mettler-Toledo Measurement Technology Company Limited, Mettler-Toledo Weighing Equipment Company Limited
    Inventors: Ping Zhang, Haitao Zhang, Christian Gabis, Tom Leahy
  • Patent number: 10506967
    Abstract: A multi-axis measurement device for loading force and center of gravity is provided comprising a first loading plate, and comprising: a first slidable element and a first piezoelectric pressure sensing element. A second loading plate comprising: a second slidable element and a second piezoelectric pressure sensing element. A connecting plate, respectively connects to the first slidable element, the first piezoelectric pressure sensing element, the second slidable element, and the second piezoelectric pressure sensing element. A plurality of third piezoelectric pressure sensing elements connects to the first loading plate. The first piezoelectric pressure sensing element measures the changes in force of the X-axis direction, the second piezoelectric pressure sensor element sensing element measures the changes in force of the Y-axis direction, and the third piezoelectric pressure sensor element sensing elements measure the changes in force of the Z-axis direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 27, 2018
    Date of Patent: December 17, 2019
    Assignee: KAOHSIUNG MEDICAL UNIVERSITY
    Inventors: Lan-Yuen Guo, Chen-Wen Yen, Lih-Jiun Liaw, Jhen-Cyun Cheng
  • Patent number: 10405812
    Abstract: An apparatus for cone beam computed tomography can include a support structure, a scanner assembly coupled to the support structure for controlled movement in at least x, y and z orientations, the scanner assembly can include a DR detector configured to move along at least a portion of a detector path that extends at least partially around a scan volume with a distance D1 that is sufficiently long to allow the scan volume to be positioned within the detector path; a radiation source configured to move along at least a portion of a source path outside the detector path, the source path having a distance D2 greater than the distance D1, the distance D2 being sufficiently long to allow adequate radiation exposure of the scan volume for an image capture by the detector; and a first gap in the detector path.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 21, 2017
    Date of Patent: September 10, 2019
    Assignees: Carestream Health, Inc., The Johns Hopkins University
    Inventors: Michael A. Litzenberger, Peter A. Newman, John Yorkston, Andrew J. Hartmann, Jeffrey H. Siewerdsen, Douglas M. Csaszar
  • Patent number: 10295423
    Abstract: An apparatus and associated method, for controlling signal passage, includes a first passageway for a first fluid, a second passageway for a second fluid, and an interposed chamber. A first, movable diaphragm at a first chamber junction and a second, movable diaphragm at a second chamber junction, with a third fluid bound there between and interposed between the first and second passageways. A device varies a volume of the third fluid bound between the diaphragms and thus moves the diaphragms. A movable member and a reservoir of the device are configured such that the movable member is sufficiently movable to increase the volume of the reservoir to remove a sufficient portion of the third fluid bound between the first and second diaphragms from the chamber to cause the first and second diaphragms to be pressed against the first and second walls, respectively.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 9, 2017
    Date of Patent: May 21, 2019
    Assignee: General Electric Company
    Inventors: Christopher Grinde, Bjorn Erik Seeberg
  • Patent number: 9907516
    Abstract: An apparatus for cone beam computed tomography can include a support structure, a scanner assembly coupled to the support structure for controlled movement in at least x, y and z orientations, the scanner assembly can include a DR detector configured to move along at least a portion of a detector path that extends at least partially around a scan volume with a distance D1 that is sufficiently long to allow the scan volume to be positioned within the detector path; a radiation source configured to move along at least a portion of a source path outside the detector path, the source path having a distance D2 greater than the distance D1, the distance D2 being sufficiently long to allow adequate radiation exposure of the scan volume for an image capture by the detector; and a first gap in the detector path.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 7, 2013
    Date of Patent: March 6, 2018
    Assignees: Carestream Health, Inc., The Johns Hopkins University
    Inventors: Michael A. Litzenberger, Peter A. Newman, John Yorkston, Andrew J. Hartmann, Jeffrey H. Siewerdsen, Douglas M. Csaszar
  • Patent number: 9709475
    Abstract: A method for determining and/or monitoring the viscosity of a medium, wherein a mechanically oscillatable unit is excited to execute oscillations based on an exciter signal, and wherein oscillations are received from the mechanically oscillatable unit and transduced into a received signal. The eigenfrequency and/or resonance frequency of the mechanically oscillatable unit and/or phase relationship between the exciter signal and the received signal are/is ascertained and/or monitored, and from changes in the eigenfrequency and/or resonance frequency and/or phase relationship, a change in viscosity is deduced and/or, based on dependencies of the oscillations on the viscosity of the medium, from the eigenfrequency and/or resonance frequency and/or phase relationship, viscosity is ascertained. In a second variant of the method, decay behavior of the mechanically oscillatable unit is evaluated. An apparatus for determining and/or monitoring viscosity is also presented.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 22, 2014
    Date of Patent: July 18, 2017
    Assignee: ENDRESS + HAUSER GMBH + CO. KG
    Inventors: Sascha D'Angelico, Martin Urban
  • Patent number: 9683675
    Abstract: An apparatus, for controlling signal passage, includes a first passageway for a first fluid, a second passageway for a second fluid, and an interposed chamber. A first, movable diaphragm at a first chamber junction and a second, movable diaphragm at a second chamber junction, with a third fluid bound there between and interposed between the first and second passageways. A device varies a volume of the third fluid bound between the diaphragms and thus moves the diaphragms. The diaphragms each have at least one position that permits passage of a pressure signal between the first fluid in the first passageway and the second fluid in the second passageway through the third fluid bound between the diaphragms. The diaphragms each have at least one position that prohibits passage of a pressure signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 24, 2014
    Date of Patent: June 20, 2017
    Assignee: General Electric Company
    Inventors: Christopher Grinde, Bjorn Erik Seeberg
  • Patent number: 9618377
    Abstract: A flexible storage container may have a first footprint when empty, and retracts to a second footprint when filled with a substance. A load sensing apparatus used for determining the volume of the substance in the flexible storage container can include a first set of load-sensitive sensors arranged in at least a region of the first footprint external to the second footprint, and a second set of load-sensitive sensors arranged within the second footprint. The sensor data from the load-sensitive sensors can be used to create a pressure level profile, and the volume of the substance contained in the flexible storage container can be calculated from the pressure level profile.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 26, 2013
    Date of Patent: April 11, 2017
    Assignee: DRS Sustainment Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Roark D. Weil, Matthew J. Hollander, Asdrubal Garcia-Ortiz, William F. Maciejewski
  • Patent number: 9400223
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a retrievable pressure sensor for in situ measurement of pressure in a process fluid in a pipe/chamber. The pressure sensor comprising a pressure-transferring device and an outer sensor part having a pressure sensing element attached at a distance from the pipe/chamber where the pressure is to be measured. The pressure-transferring device comprises a first device for sealing attachment in an opening in a wall of the pipe/chamber where the pressure is to be measured, and has a first separation diaphragm for separating between the process fluid and the pressure-transferring fluid. The pressure-transferring device further comprises a second device for attachment at a distance from the pipe/chamber where the pressure is to be measured. The pressure-transferring device comprises a first cavity with a pressure-transferring fluid, wherein the first cavity comprising a capillary tube for pressure transferring connection between the first device and the second device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 7, 2012
    Date of Patent: July 26, 2016
    Assignee: GENERAL ELECTRIC COMPANY
    Inventors: Paal Martin Vagle, Bjørn Erik Seeberg
  • Patent number: 8975541
    Abstract: A weight-measuring device (1) for vehicle lifting platforms, which can be arranged between a height-adjustable supporting element (15) and a vehicle which is to be lifted, wherein an upper part (2) and a lower part (3) form a cavity (12) which is filled with a hydraulic fluid (13) and/or with a gas and generates in the cavity (12), by means of a load (19, 20) lying on top, a hydraulic or gas pressure which is measured and/or indicated with a pressure gauge and/or indicator device (4) which is at least partially integrated in the upper part (2) and/or in the lower part (3), with the upper part (2) being composed of rubber and/or of plastic and/or of some other elastic material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 29, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 10, 2015
    Assignee: Roland Hornstein GmbH & Co., KG
    Inventor: Roland Hornstein
  • Publication number: 20140251699
    Abstract: A device and associated method of use may each generally be directed to a device capable of continually measuring the weight of various fluids in real-time by having at least a pneumatic bladder positioned within an enclosure and contacting a fluid. The pneumatic bladder may be connected to a sensing device that can act to measure a weight of the fluid.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 5, 2013
    Publication date: September 11, 2014
    Inventor: Carl Bright
  • Publication number: 20140224551
    Abstract: A weighing assembly (100,500,600) includes a portable computing device (“PCC”) (112) such as a smart phone, pad computer, laptop computer, or the like. The weighing assembly utilizes one or more features of the portable computing device in order to weigh an item, under control of a scale application program or “app” executable in the portable computing device. Some embodiments may utilize an internal barometric pressure sensor of the PCC. Other embodiments may utilize orientation or position sensors of the PCC for weighing an item. Other embodiments may utilize a compressible foot element (1004), all for weighing an item. Preferably, a user interface (114) of the PCC, such as a touch screen, may be used to interact with the scale application program for calibration and other functions.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 12, 2013
    Publication date: August 14, 2014
    Applicant: RAF TECHNOLOGY, INC.
    Inventor: Bryan Turner
  • Patent number: 8431840
    Abstract: Support element for lifting platforms, which can be arranged between a carrying element of the lifting platform and a vehicle which is to be raised, wherein the support element can be removed from the carrying element, wherein the support element rests on at least one vertically displaceable transfer element that seals a pressure chamber that is filled with hydraulic fluid and is disposed above said transfer element, with the transfer element generating in the pressure chamber a pressure that is characteristic for the weight resting on the support element, and in that the pressure chamber has an annular recess, in particular a groove, which is sealed by the equally annular transfer element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 7, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 30, 2013
    Assignee: Roland Hörnstein GmbH & Co., KG
    Inventor: Roland Hörnstein
  • Patent number: 8431839
    Abstract: The invention relates to a bearing element for lifting platforms, which is a displaceable part of a bearing arm of a load receiving element of a lifting platform, with a vehicle bearing element resting on that end of said bearing element that protrudes from the carrier, wherein at least one annular recess, in particular an annular groove, is arranged on the upper side of said bearing element, in which at least one vertically displaceable transfer element is disposed that seals a pressure chamber that is filled with hydraulic fluid and is disposed below said transfer element, with the transfer element generating in the pressure chamber a pressure that is characteristic for the weight.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 19, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 30, 2013
    Assignee: Roland Hörnstein GmbH & Co., KG
    Inventor: Roland Hörnstein
  • Patent number: 8330058
    Abstract: The portable airbag scale is a scale that measures the weight of a load based upon a difference between measured air pressure in an inflatable bladder, the difference being measured between a first state, where the load is not positioned on the inflatable bladder, and a second state, in which the load is supported on the inflatable bladder. The portable airbag scale includes an inflatable bladder having opposed upper and lower walls and at least one sidewall. A port is formed through the at least one sidewall for selective inflation and deflation of the inflatable bladder. A pressure sensor is mounted within the inflatable bladder for measuring the air pressure therein. A controller selectively calculates the weight of the load based upon the measured difference in air pressure. A display is provided for displaying the weight of the load.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 10, 2010
    Date of Patent: December 11, 2012
    Assignee: King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals
    Inventor: Samir Mekid
  • Publication number: 20120211285
    Abstract: A weight-measuring device (1) for vehicle lifting platforms, which can be arranged between a height-adjustable supporting element (15) and a vehicle which is to be lifted, wherein an upper part (2) and a lower part (3) form a cavity (12) which is filled with a hydraulic fluid (13) and/or with a gas and generates in the cavity (12), by means of a load (19, 20) lying on top, a hydraulic or gas pressure which is measured and/or indicated with a pressure gauge and/or indicator device (4) which is at least partially integrated in the upper part (2) and/or in the lower part (3), with the upper part (2) being composed of rubber and/or of plastic and/or of some other elastic material.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 29, 2010
    Publication date: August 23, 2012
    Applicant: ROLAND HORNSTEIN GMBH & CO., KG
    Inventor: Roland Hornstein
  • Publication number: 20110272197
    Abstract: The portable airbag scale is a scale that measures the weight of a load based upon a difference between measured air pressure in an inflatable bladder, the difference being measured between a first state, where the load is not positioned on the inflatable bladder, and a second state, in which the load is supported on the inflatable bladder. The portable airbag scale includes an inflatable bladder having opposed upper and lower walls and at least one sidewall. A port is formed through the at least one sidewall for selective inflation and deflation of the inflatable bladder. A pressure sensor is mounted within the inflatable bladder for measuring the air pressure therein. A controller selectively calculates the weight of the load based upon the measured difference in air pressure. A display is provided for displaying the weight of the load.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 10, 2010
    Publication date: November 10, 2011
    Inventor: Samir Mekid
  • Patent number: 7900736
    Abstract: System and method for measuring the weight of an occupant in a vehicle seat and for controlling a safety restraint system responsive thereto includes at least one fluid-containing structure arranged mounted within or beneath an upper surface of a bottom portion of the seat and supported by a base of the seat and at least one pressure sensor operatively coupled to the fluid-containing structure(s) for generating a signal responsive to pressure of the fluid within the fluid-containing structure(s) caused by pressure applied to the upper surface of the seat by the occupant. A processor is coupled to the pressure sensor(s) and provides an indication of the weight of the occupant from the signal and generates a control signal for controlling the safety restraint system based on the weight. The fluid-containing structure may be a bladder arranged in the bottom of the seat and/or include a plurality of interconnected chambers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 22, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 8, 2011
    Assignee: Automotive Technologies International, Inc.
    Inventor: David S. Breed
  • Publication number: 20100300768
    Abstract: A portable scale including an inflatable bladder, an inflation port, a pressure sensor, and a display. The display indicates the weight of an object that may be placed upon the bladder based on the pressure inside the bladder that is sensed by the pressure sensor. The bladder may be deflated for easy transport or storage. The portable scale may further include a mechanical or electric pump for inflating the bladder. The pump may be turned off when the pressure inside the bladder reaches a predetermined level.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 27, 2009
    Publication date: December 2, 2010
    Inventor: Howard J. Reiter
  • Patent number: 7842892
    Abstract: An apparatus and a method for measuring a body weight of a user are provided. The apparatus includes a container containing a fluid inside for supporting the user, a fluid sensor measuring a pressure of the fluid inside the container, and a control unit determining the body weight of the user. The fluid sensor measures a change of the pressure as the user lying on the container, and the control unit determines the body weight of the user based on the change of the pressure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 21, 2006
    Date of Patent: November 30, 2010
    Inventor: Suzanne Wang
  • Publication number: 20100263942
    Abstract: The invention relates to a bearing element for lifting platforms, which is a displaceable part of a bearing arm of a load receiving element of a lifting platform, with a vehicle bearing element resting on that end of said bearing element that protrudes from the carrier, wherein at least one annular recess, in particular an annular groove, is arranged on the upper side of said bearing element, in which at least one vertically displaceable transfer element is disposed that seals a pressure chamber that is filled with hydraulic fluid and is disposed below said transfer element, with the transfer element generating in the pressure chamber a pressure that is characteristic for the weight.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 19, 2008
    Publication date: October 21, 2010
    Inventor: Roland Hörnstein
  • Patent number: 7779956
    Abstract: Vehicle seat including a seat portion including a container having an interior containing fluid and a mechanism, material or structure therein to restrict flow of the fluid from one portion of the interior to another portion of the interior, a back portion arranged at an angle to the seat portion, and a measurement system arranged to obtain an indication of the weight of the occupant when present on the seat portion based at least in part on the pressure of the fluid in the container. The weight of the occupant can be used to control components in the vehicle or the seat itself.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 20, 2006
    Date of Patent: August 24, 2010
    Assignee: Automotive Technologies International, Inc..
    Inventors: David S. Breed, Jeffrey L. Morin, Wilbur E. DuVall
  • Patent number: 7750255
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a system and a method for weighing a section of a structure (1). The system comprises at least one hydraulic weight sensor device (3), adapted to be placed in at least one slot (2) under the section, a pressure sensor (7) for measuring the pressure in the at least one weight sensor device (3), and a hydraulic system comprising at least one pump unit (5) and at least one valve unit (6) for pumping hydraulic fluid to and from the at least one hydraulic weight sensor device (3) through a hydraulic line (4). The system further comprises a distance sensor (10) for measuring the height of the slot (2), a control circuit device (20) for calculating the weight of the section based on measured data received from the pressure sensor (7), and for balancing the section on the basis of the measured data received from the pressure sensor (7) and the distance sensor (10) by controlling the pump unit (5) and the valve unit (6).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 25, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 6, 2010
    Inventor: Hans Knutsen
  • Patent number: 7408123
    Abstract: A seat occupant sensing apparatus includes a notched foam bottom seat cushion and a pressure-responsive sensor disposed between the bottom cushion and a frame of the seat. The notch is a narrow channel on the underside of the foam cushion that extends upward into the foam to limit and direct dispersion of occupant loading through the cushion. A rectangular notch smaller in dimension than a child seat frame is formed in a central region of the foam cushion, and a fluid-filled bladder or other force-responsive sensor mat is disposed substantially within the perimeter of the notch. The sensor will detect a normally seated occupant due to the relatively uniform seat load, but will not detect a cinched-down child seat because the notch limits dispersion of child seat loading in the direction of the sensor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 16, 2006
    Date of Patent: August 5, 2008
    Assignee: Delphi Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Kevin J. Hawes, Duane D. Fortune, Morgan D. Murphy
  • Patent number: 7282654
    Abstract: Provided herein are exemplary embodiments of a weighing device comprising a bladder and a plurality of contact switches printed on the bladder. The bladder comprises a top and a bottom sheet of a suitable non porous material. The contact switches are made by printing a conductive pattern on one side of the bladder and printing conductive elements with leads or traces on the other side of the bladder. The two sides of the bladder are heat sealed together along the periphery of the bladder with the conductive portions facing each other. An inflation port is also formed in the periphery. In operation, the bladder is placed under an individual to be weighed. Next, the bladder is inflated using a gas. Finally, monitoring circuitry coupled to the bladder measures and records the pressure at the time each of the switches open due to the separation of the conductive portions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 8, 2005
    Date of Patent: October 16, 2007
    Inventors: Peter Salgo, Vern Liebmann, Michael Sturdevant
  • Patent number: 7005587
    Abstract: A load cell includes a first element, a second element and a sensor measuring force between the first and second elements along a first axis. In some embodiments, lateral and angular decoupling is provided by the provision of a convex surface between the first and second elements. The convex surface is slidable relative to at least one of the first and second elements in a first direction perpendicular to the first axis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 21, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 28, 2006
    Assignee: Intelligent Mechatronic Systems Inc.
    Inventors: Dmitri L. Axakov, Alexander M. Nassonov, Otman A. Basir, Fakhreddinc Karray, Sergey Krivtsov
  • Patent number: 6881907
    Abstract: A method and apparatus is provided for determining an attribute of an article during the transfer of the article by an article-feeding machine during the transfer of the article from one location to another location.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 1, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 19, 2005
    Assignee: Johnson Food Equipment, Inc.
    Inventor: Antoine J. H. Winkelmolen
  • Patent number: 6674024
    Abstract: A hydrostatic weight sensor comprises a bladder of flexible material that contains a fluid, preferably in an amount less than the capacity of the bladder when the bladder is unloaded, the pressure of which is sensed by a pressure sensor so as to provide a measure of weight upon the bladder. The bladder is mountable within a seat below the seat cushion and above the seat base, wherein seating loads are distributed across the bladder by the seat cushion and the seat base. In one embodiment, the bladder comprises a plurality of sheets of flexible material that are sealably connected to one another along a periphery, and are further connected to one another at one or more locations within the periphery so as to create a plurality of fluid containing zones that are in fluid communication with one another.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 15, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 6, 2004
    Assignee: Automotive Systems Laboratory, INC
    Inventors: Leonard S. Cech, Michael R. Sewell, Edward J. Gillis, Dennis E. Palmer, James G. Stanley, Vinh H. Tran, Todd K. Bowman
  • Publication number: 20030213622
    Abstract: An occupant weight detecting apparatus for detecting an occupant weight on a seat includes a load sensor mounted on the seat to detect a load on the seat and output a load signal. A detected load value is calculated periodically based on the load signal and an average is calculated based on the detected load values calculated during a period in which the detected load value is less than a first predetermined. The average of the detected load values is set to a zero point, and the occupant weight is detected based on the detected load value and the zero point when the detected load value exceeds a second predetermined value.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 26, 2003
    Publication date: November 20, 2003
    Applicant: Aisin Seiki Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Morio Sakai, Koji Aoki, Masaki Mori, Minoru Izawa, Yasunori Hasegawa, Takaaki Enomoto
  • Patent number: 6627825
    Abstract: A hydraulic lifting and weighing system particularly for refuse collection vehicles and the like and includes means for dynamically weighing garbage. The system includes a hydraulic actuator operable to move a lifting arm and takes two measurements of the pressure of the hydraulic fluid in the system as the arm raises a waste bin whose weight is to be measured. The weight of the bin is calculated by multiplying the pressure by a factor determined by calibration with known weights. Weights are calculated based on the measurements of pressure and the result averaged. The system compensates for variations in hydraulic flow characteristics. The system includes means for compensating for variations in the inclination of the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 27, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 30, 2003
    Assignee: TEK Solutions Pty Ltd
    Inventor: Richard Creswick
  • Patent number: 6518520
    Abstract: Weighing apparatus preferably comprises at least two weight sensing elements that are connected to each other by at least one communication cable. In accordance with this invention, weight sensing elements are preferably positioned either adjacent to or at each end of bed in order to support bed. In a preferred embodiment, each weight sensing element comprises a weight sensing base and at least a pair of mounting assemblies that may be at or adjacent to the head and foot of bed. Preferably, weight sensing base extends laterally and mounting assemblies extend vertically. Each weight sensing base is supported by the corresponding pair of mounting assemblies. In addition, a power cord is used for transferring electrical power to weighing apparatus. A pendant assembly is used for operating weighing apparatus. A pendant cord connects hand-held pendant to both weight sensing elements upon being plugged into either weight sensing element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 30, 2000
    Date of Patent: February 11, 2003
    Assignee: Mobility Innovations, Inc.
    Inventors: David Lane Jones, John Frederick Jones
  • Patent number: 6504113
    Abstract: The scales include a tray (1) placed on a base (3) and lifted by an air cushion, with no mechanical connection with the base (3). The weight of an object (21) laid on the tray (1) varies the air cushion pressure, and the measurement of this pressure by an external sensor (19) is straightforward and gives the weight of the object (21) once a law of correlation has been determined. Lateral pipes enable gas to be blown against a flange (2) of the tray (1) and thus horizontal displacements of the tray and friction to be avoided. Several vertical pipes are generally provided so as to reduce tray (1) tipping after the object (21) has been thrown off centre, the weight being then given by the sum of the measurements of each vertical pipe.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 8, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 7, 2003
    Assignee: Compagnie Generale des Matieres Nucleaires
    Inventors: Paul Gallard, François Decool
  • Patent number: 6479766
    Abstract: An improved occupant weight detection system measures the pressure in a fluid-filled bladder disposed in or under a foam seat cushion as an indication of occupant weight, and periodically adjusts the pressure vs. occupant weight relationship to compensate for changes due to aging and usage of the foam seat cushion. The system controller develops an aging adjustment value based on a measure of the cumulative aging and usage of the seat, and uses the developed adjustment value to compensate the operation of the system. The aging adjustment value is determined primarily as a function of occupant weight and time of seat occupancy, and the compensation is achieved by using the aging adjustment value to adjust either the estimated weight, or a threshold to which the measured pressure is compared for purposes of deciding if restraint deployment should be enabled.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 26, 2001
    Date of Patent: November 12, 2002
    Assignee: Delphi Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Charles A. Gray, Royce L. Rennaker, Phillip E Kaltenbacher, II, Chance Lee Scales, James Gerard Gallagher, Gregory Allen Cobb
  • Publication number: 20020134592
    Abstract: An improved occupant weight detection system measures the pressure in a fluid-filled bladder disposed in or under a foam seat cushion as an indication of occupant weight, and periodically adjusts the pressure vs. occupant weight relationship to compensate for changes due to aging and usage of the foam seat cushion. The system controller develops an aging adjustment value based on a measure of the cumulative aging and usage of the seat, and uses the developed adjustment value to compensate the operation of the system. The aging adjustment value is determined primarily as a function of occupant weight and time of seat occupancy, and the compensation is achieved by using the aging adjustment value to adjust either the estimated weight, or a threshold to which the measured pressure is compared for purposes of deciding if restraint deployment should be enabled.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 26, 2001
    Publication date: September 26, 2002
    Inventors: Charles A. Gray, Royce L. Rennaker, Phillip E. Kaltenbacher, Chance Lee Scales, James Gerard Gallagher, Gregory Allen Cobb
  • Patent number: 6392166
    Abstract: An improved method of producing a fluid filled elastomeric bladder for occupant weight sensing involves annealing the bladder material prior to its installation in a vehicle seat so as to quickly relieve initial stress due to stretching of the bladder material which occurs during fluid injection. In a preferred implementation, the initial stress is relieved by immersing the fluid-filled bladders in heated water for a time period on the order of 60 seconds or more. Alternatively, the bladder material may be heated with steam or radiant heat, by injecting heated fluid into the bladder, or by injecting heated air into an empty bladder before fluid injection. In each case the initial stress is quickly relieved, substantially eliminating a potential source of error in the sensed weight.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 8, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 21, 2002
    Assignee: Delphi Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Duane Donald Fortune, Morgan D. Murphy, Gregory Allen Cobb, Julia Ann Oberlin, Phillip E Kaltenbacher, II
  • Patent number: 6369339
    Abstract: The invention relates to an apparatus for manipulating in the height and in particular setting down of a load. The apparatus comprises a suspension on a lifting device, which suspension comprises a drive, with which drive the load can be manipulated in the height; a weighing device with which the weight of the load can be determined; a memory connected to the weighing device for storing an initial weight of the load; and comparing means for comparing an actual weight with the initial weight stored in the memory for the purpose of selective energizing of the drive in response to the comparison.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 28, 2000
    Date of Patent: April 9, 2002
    Inventor: Jan Noord
  • Patent number: 6286861
    Abstract: A hydrostatic weight sensor comprises a bladder of flexible material that contains a fluid, preferably in an amount less than the capacity of the bladder when the bladder is unloaded, the pressure of which is sensed by a pressure sensor so as to provide a measure of weight upon the bladder. The bladder is mountable within a seat below the seat cushion and above the seat base, wherein seating loads are distributed across the bladder by the seat cushion and the seat base. In one embodiment, the bladder comprises a plurality of sheets of flexible material that are sealably connected to one another along a periphery, and are further connected to one another at one or more locations within the periphery so as to create a plurality of fluid containing zones that are in fluid communication with one another.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 7, 1999
    Date of Patent: September 11, 2001
    Assignee: Automotive Systems Laboratory, Inc.
    Inventors: Leonard S. Cech, Michael R. Sewell, Edward J. Gillis, Dennis E. Palmer, James G. Stanley, Vinh H. Tran, Todd K. Bowman
  • Patent number: 6076853
    Abstract: A plurality of pneumatic hydrostatic weight sensors, each incorporating a fluid and a pressure sensor for sensing the pressure thereof, are incorporated in series with the load path within a vehicle seat to sense occupant weight. A signal processor measures the pressure within each pneumatic hydrostatic weight sensor and the weight of the occupant from the signal generated by the associated pressure sensor, and compensates for the effects of ambient pressure or temperature on the weight measurement responsive to the difference in pressure between the associated pressures of two of the pneumatic hydrostatic weight sensors.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 7, 1998
    Date of Patent: June 20, 2000
    Assignee: Automotive Systems Laboratory, Inc.
    Inventor: James G. Stanley
  • Patent number: 6045155
    Abstract: A hydrostatic weight sensor element incorporates a volume restorer for restoring the volume thereof when the applied load is removed therefrom, whereupon a check valve in fluid communication therewith admits sensing fluid thereinto if the pressure of the sensing fluid within the hydrostatic weight sensor element is less than local atmospheric pressure, so as to replenish lost sensing fluid. The volume restorer may comprise either the seat cushion, operatively coupled to the load bearing surfaces of the hydrostatic weight sensor element, or an elastic medium incorporated within the hydrostatic weight sensor element, whereby the volume restorer is adapted so that the restored volume of fluid is less than the volume capacity of the hydrostatic weight sensor element. A pressure relief valve is provided for releasing sensing fluid so as to prevent damage from overload conditions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 7, 1998
    Date of Patent: April 4, 2000
    Assignee: Automotive Systems Laboratory, Inc.
    Inventors: Leonard S. Cech, Michael R. Sewell, Alan R. Ham
  • Patent number: 5886301
    Abstract: A device and method are described for measuring the weight of objects using a pneumatically sealed bellows which contains a pair of spaced apart capacitor plates. In accordance with the invention, the pneumatic pressure within the bellows is varied to maintain constant dimensions for the bellows and a constant distance between the electric capacitor plates. This pressure is therefore a function of the weight placed upon the bellows which exerts a pressure tending to force the walls of the bellows and the capacitor plates closer together thereby changing the electric capacitance between the capacitor plates. By adjusting the pneumatic pressure to maintain a constant electric capacitance and constant dimensions for the bellows, a convenient parameter is obtained from which the weight of objects placed on the bellows can be measured. The invention has particular application in the meteorological sciences.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 4, 1997
    Date of Patent: March 23, 1999
    Assignee: Vitel, Inc.
    Inventor: Duane Preble
  • Patent number: 5789714
    Abstract: This invention provides an apparatus and a method of using the apparatus to determine the weight of a load which is supported on a frame. In a preferred use of the invention, the load is supported on a tilt frame which is itself supported on the chassis of a transport means, such as truck.The apparatus of this invention comprises a combination of a hydraulic system for lifting the load and a load sensor for sensing the weight of the load lifted, wherein the full weight of the load to be weighed is simultaneously transferred to the load sensor as the hydraulic system lifts the load, while the entire load continues to be carried by the frame.The invention still further comprises electronic means for converting the sensed weight to digital terms and means for mathematically manipulating, storing, and displaying the sensed weight for immediate and subsequent purposes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 28, 1996
    Date of Patent: August 4, 1998
    Assignee: Adrian J. Paul Co., Inc.
    Inventor: James L. Doerksen
  • Patent number: 5721399
    Abstract: A golf club swing weight scale includes dual weighing scales arranged to provide for the simultaneous measurement of both the total weight and the swing weight of a golf club or other object. The device may include weight scales using either electronic load cells or strain gauges, hydraulic or pneumatic pressure measurement, or mechanical operation, as desired. The scale also includes a weighing pan providing for the weighing of various separate components, as well as providing for the retention of a golf club thereon to determine the total and swing weight thereof. The device also includes stops to preclude excessive oscillation of the weighing pan and club retainers, as well as a golf club or other article placed thereon, during the weighing operation, thus reducing the time required for the scale to come to a rest position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 7, 1996
    Date of Patent: February 24, 1998
    Inventor: Mondher Latiri