Combined Patents (Class 324/226)
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Patent number: 6275031Abstract: Apparatus for quantitatively measuring groups of magnetic particles. The particles are complexed with substances to be determined and are excited in a magnetic field. The magnetic particles are thereby caused to oscillate at the excitation frequency in the manner of a dipole to create their own fields. These fields are inductively coupled to sensing coils fabricated in a gradiometer configuration. The output signals from the sensing coils are appropriately amplified and processed to provide useful output indications.Type: GrantFiled: May 22, 2000Date of Patent: August 14, 2001Assignee: Quantum Design, Inc.Inventor: Michael Bancroft Simmonds
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Patent number: 6237418Abstract: Method and apparatus by which misshapen crown caps on beverage containers, such as bottles traveling along high-speed bottling lines, may be detected. Bottles are arranged to travel directly beneath a magnetic proximity sensor head placed at a station along a conveyor. A photodetector indicates when a crown cap is properly positioned with respect to the magnetic proximity sensor. In the presence of a crown cap, the sensor head generates a signal having characteristic shapes indicative of properly shaped caps or those that are misshapen. The signal is monitored via algorithms for the presence of the characteristic shapes anticipated for properly shaped and misshapen crown caps and commands are generated in response to detecting reject crown caps.Type: GrantFiled: June 21, 1999Date of Patent: May 29, 2001Assignee: Benthos, Inc.Inventors: John L. Coughlin, Robert G. Melvin, II
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Patent number: 6232772Abstract: A device for measuring the rotation of a rotating element comprising an encoder element rotating with the rotating element and a sensor unit connected to a stationary element. A scraping element cooperates with a surface of the encoder element in order to eliminate contaminating particles present on the surface of the encoder element. The scraping element may be carried on the sensor device and may be biased against the encoder element by an elastic device or by magnetism.Type: GrantFiled: October 30, 1998Date of Patent: May 15, 2001Assignee: The Torrington CompanyInventors: Bernard Liatard, Rene Nantua, Isabelle Riviere
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Patent number: 6211672Abstract: A metal detector that is to be attached to a human appendage and preferably the wrist and hand of a human. A metal detector includes a housing which is to be worn strictly by the human hand or the hand and the wrist. One version of the metal detector would be in the form of a glove. The second version would be in the form of a flexible base which is mounted between the hand and the wrist by a strap arrangement. Within both versions, there is a search coil located in the palm area of the hand. A metal detection circuit battery source is mounted on the portion of the housing that is located directly against the backside of the hand.Type: GrantFiled: December 21, 1998Date of Patent: April 3, 2001Assignee: Triple Tech, LLCInventors: Verne W. Bauman, Samuel R. Bernstein, Robert A. Dovidio
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Patent number: 6175234Abstract: An intermediary device is provided between an eddy current bolt hole inspection machine and an associated eddy current probe to positionally align the probe in each bolt hole to be inspected. A first end of the device is attachable to the eddy current bolt hole inspection machine, and a second end, having a tightening bolt, is attachable to the eddy current probe. A collet associated with the second end of the device secures the probe to the device when the tightening bolt is tightened subsequent to the second end accepting the eddy current probe. An adjustable flange component has a first portion separated from a second portion via a spring wave washer to allow the second portion to move left to right and front to back, relative to the first portion.Type: GrantFiled: September 17, 1998Date of Patent: January 16, 2001Assignee: General Electric CompanyInventors: Carl Granger, Jr., David E. Day, Thomas B. Hewton
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Patent number: 6163148Abstract: The invention relates to a sensor provided with a magnet (52) and a magnetic detecting element (53) comprising a detection shaft (38a), a detection disc (59a) which is fixed to the detection shaft, a magnetic piece (59b) which is fixed to the outer circumference edge of the detection disc, a yoke (59c) which is disposed to hold the magnetic piece in a predetermined shaped gap, and the magnet and the magnetic detecting element both fixed to the yoke. The sensor is used for a drive force auxiliary device which combines a human power drive force and a motor drive force. The drive force auxiliary device comprises a torque sensor (30), a vehicle speed detecting means (40) for detecting a running speed of the drive force auxiliary device, and an auxiliary power means using a motor (M). The vehicle speed detecting means (40) detects a running speed by virtue of the drive force auxiliary device based on a rotation position signal obtained from a rotor rotation position detector.Type: GrantFiled: April 30, 1997Date of Patent: December 19, 2000Assignee: Seiko Epson CorporationInventors: Yutaka Takada, Hiroshi Miyazawa, Akihito Uetake, Kuniaki Tanaka, Hiroshi Nakazato, Katsumi Shinkai
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Patent number: 6150810Abstract: A method for detecting a presence or an absence of a ferromagnetic object within a sensing area may comprise the steps of sensing, during a sample time, a magnetic field adjacent the sensing area; producing surveillance data representative of the sensed magnetic field; determining an absolute value difference between a maximum datum and a minimum datum comprising the surveillance data; and determining whether the absolute value difference has a positive or negative sign. The absolute value difference and the corresponding positive or negative sign thereof forms a representative surveillance datum that is indicative of the presence or absence in the sensing area of the ferromagnetic material.Type: GrantFiled: June 25, 1998Date of Patent: November 21, 2000Assignee: Bechtel BWXT Idaho, LLCInventor: Lyle G. Roybal
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Patent number: 6072313Abstract: The change in thickness of a film on an underlying body such as a semiconductor substrate is monitored in situ by inducing a current in the film, and as the thickness of the film changes (either increase or decrease), the changes in the current are detected. With a conductive film, eddy currents are induced in the film by a generating an alternating electromagnetic field with a sensor which includes a capacitor and an inductor.Type: GrantFiled: June 17, 1997Date of Patent: June 6, 2000Assignee: International Business Machines CorporationInventors: Leping Li, Steven George Barbee, Arnold Halperin, Tony Frederick Heinz
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Patent number: 6067857Abstract: A processing arrangement for a brake element for a vehicle employs a rotational support, such as a precision collet arrangement, for supporting the brake element rotatably about a fixed axis of rotation. The brake element and the spindle are rotated by a drive arrangement that causes the brake element to rotate about the axis of rotation while a rotary encoder that is coupled to the drive arrangement produces a rotation data signal containing rotational information responsive to the rotation of the brake element. Residual unbalances are measured by the production of an unbalance data signal that is responsive to forces that are themselves responsive to a residual unbalance of the brake element. In addition, a surface dimension detector produces a surface dimension data electrical signal that is responsive to a dimensional characteristic of a surface of the brake element.Type: GrantFiled: February 26, 1998Date of Patent: May 30, 2000Assignee: Balance Technology, Inc.Inventors: Robert A. Cooper, Thomas P. Plunkett
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Patent number: 6064201Abstract: Small metallic patches embedded in a mainly non-metallic surface may be detected and mapped by placing a wire coil at the free end of a cantilever, with a fine tip made of a ferro-magnetic material located at its center. An alternating current is passed through the coil so that when it is near a metallic patch eddy currents are induced in the patch. These produce a small magnetic moment in the patch which pulls the tip towards the surface. This movement of the tip is detected by observing a light beam that is reflected off the surface of the cantilever. By plotting the output of a photodetector, sensistive to small changes in the reflected beam's position, as a function of the tip's location over the surface, a map of the metallic patches is produced.Type: GrantFiled: July 13, 1998Date of Patent: May 16, 2000Assignees: Chartered Semiconductor Manufacturing Ltd., National University of SingaporeInventors: Cher Liang Randall Cha, Hao Gong, Eng Fong Chor, Lap Chan
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Patent number: 6046677Abstract: The present invention warns an operator of failure to properly use an indication device within an assembly line for producing articles of manufacture. The present invention includes a detector, coupled to the indication device, for detecting application of the indication device to a work piece within the assembly line. In addition, the present invention includes a timer, coupled to the detector, for timing a measured time period from a first time point when a prior application of the indication device to a first work piece is detected within the assembly line. The present invention further includes a warning unit, coupled to the timer, for generating an alarm signal if the measured time period is greater than a predetermined time period and if a subsequent application of the indication device to a second work piece has not been detected within the measured time period.Type: GrantFiled: February 8, 1999Date of Patent: April 4, 2000Assignee: Honda of America Mfg., Inc.Inventor: Bruce W. Kavanagh
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Patent number: 6046585Abstract: Apparatus for quantitatively measuring groups of magnetic particle. The particles are complexed with substances to be determined and are excited in a magnetic field. The magnetic particles are thereby caused to oscillate at the excitation frequency in the manner of a dipole to create their own fields. These fields are inductively coupled to sensing coils fabricated in a gradiometer configuration. The output signals from the sensing coils are appropriately amplified and processed to provide useful output indications.Type: GrantFiled: November 21, 1997Date of Patent: April 4, 2000Assignee: Quantum Design, Inc.Inventor: Michael Bancroft Simmonds
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Patent number: 6031371Abstract: An in-pipe vehicle for carrying out at least one operation in a pipeline. The vehicle includes a train of modules interlinked by suspension units to allow serpentine movement through pipe bends. The vehicle train has its own internal power supply and drive mechanism in the modules. A detector module determines the presence of a service junction using magnetic field information. A manipulative module allows the vehicle to be temporarily wedged in the pipeline while providing rotational movement to facilitate the desired operation at the junction. This may include drilling and welding of a service pipe to the main using appropriate modules. A remote probe typically containing a magnetic field generator can be used to assist in service junction location by the vehicle.Type: GrantFiled: March 23, 1998Date of Patent: February 29, 2000Assignee: BG plcInventor: Andrew Smart
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Patent number: 6031377Abstract: A magnetic anomaly detection buoy includes an elongated body having a cavity disposed therein, a means for detecting a magnetic anomaly and producing an output in response thereto, and a means for maintaining the elongated body in a state of buoyant repose within a fluid medium. A radio transmitter, disposed within the cavity of the elongated body, for electrical communication with the detecting means. The radio transmitter receives the output from the means for detecting the magnetic anomaly and transmits a radio signal in response thereto. A method for detecting a magnetic field anomaly includes deploying a magnetic anomaly detection buoy into a large body of water and determining a first flux value representing the magnetic flux of the environmental magnetic field conditions. The first flux value is then stored for future reference. The environmental magnetic field conditions are evaluated and a second flux value is determined.Type: GrantFiled: June 5, 1995Date of Patent: February 29, 2000Inventor: James A. Watkins
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Patent number: 6005388Abstract: Device and process for detecting defects in an arrangement of reinforcing members in casing plies in a sidewall region of at least one of an unvulcanized tire blank or a vulcanized pneumatic vehicle tire to be tested. The reinforcing members may include a magnetizable material and the device may include a support device that rotatably supports the at least one of the unvulcanized tire blank or the vulcanized pneumatic vehicle tire in rotation around a rotational axis and at least one sensor that measures magnetic field intensities in a heterogeneous magnetic field resulting from inductions generated by the defects in the arrangement of the reinforcing members moving through the heterogeneous magnetic field. The at least one sensor may be positioned in a radial measuring position in a radial region of the sidewall.Type: GrantFiled: May 23, 1997Date of Patent: December 21, 1999Assignee: Continental AktiengesellschaftInventors: Michaela Kaefer-Hoffmann, Werner Bosch
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Patent number: 5966008Abstract: A radio-interrogated, surface-wave technology current transformer for high/medium-voltage systems includes a magnetosensitive element connected to a surface-wave structure of a surface-wave configuration as a termination of the surface-wave structure. A response signal of the surface-wave configuration is information regarding current strength/direction and phase of the current instantaneously flowing through the system, which is evaluated by a ground station. By virtue of the radio transmission, there is no electrical insulation problem, and the use of a radio-interrogated surface-wave configuration makes that part of the overall current transducer which is at high potential into a passive element of the same.Type: GrantFiled: October 20, 1997Date of Patent: October 12, 1999Assignee: Siemens AktiengesellschaftInventors: Reinhard Maier, Wolf-Eckhart Bulst, Thomas Ostertag, Oliver Sczesny, Wolfgang Schelter, Leonhard Reindl, Werner Ruile, Gerd Scholl, Jurgen Michel
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Patent number: 5952823Abstract: A shock absorber includes a housing having a chamber and a piston slidably disposed in the chamber. A piston rod is connected to the piston and extends out of the housing. The piston rod includes a bore extending longitudinally therein. A magnetostrictive transducer provides an output signal indicative of the piston with respect to the housing. The magnetostrictive transducer includes a magnetostrictive waveguide disposed in the bore and a magnet joined to the housing that is operably coupled to the magnetostrictive waveguide.Type: GrantFiled: March 21, 1997Date of Patent: September 14, 1999Assignee: MTS Systems CorporationInventors: David S. Nyce, Stephen W. Smith, Arnold F. Sprecher, Jr., Mauro G. Togneri, Peter T. Tola, Jr.
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Patent number: 5923165Abstract: Disclosed are a method and apparatus for detection of a magnetic substance erroneously included in a non-magnetic product. The non-magnetic product such as a sewn product is passed through a high magnetic field in which a magnetic field is applied to the product. The residual magnetization of a magnetic substance such as a broken needle mingled in the product is detected by a sensing unit and a signal of detection is transmitted to a measuring unit to measure the magnitude of detected residual magnetization. The presence or absence of the magnetic substance in the product is determined by a control unit based on the output from the measuring unit. Alternatively, a magnetic field may be preparatorily applied to a magnetic substance having the possibility of being mingled in the non-magnetic product thereby causing the magnetic substance to assume a state of possessing residual magnetization.Type: GrantFiled: May 8, 1997Date of Patent: July 13, 1999Assignee: YKK CorporationInventors: Hiromitsu Horita, Koichi Kawakami, Noriaki Kazama, Tsuneo Suzuki, Shinichi Kojima
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Patent number: 5917321Abstract: A process is presented for the direct determination of characteristic magnetic values of thin magnetizable layers, in which an element creating a magnetic field creates the magnetization of a part surface in such a way that the thin magnetizable layer, the element creating the magnetic field, and a magnetic field sensor are located in a relative position of rest to one another. The magnetic field sensor is then positioned opposite the magnetized part surface by a relative movement of the element creating the magnetic field, the magnetic field sensor, and the thin magnetic layer. During the subsequent measurement of the magnetization of the part surface, the thin magnetic layer, the element creating the magnetic field, and the magnetic field sensor are in a relative position of rest to one another.Type: GrantFiled: January 17, 1997Date of Patent: June 29, 1999Assignee: International Business Machines CorporationInventors: Peter Pokrowsky, Heinz Lehr, Hans-Joachim Hartmann, Christoph Schulz
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Patent number: 5894220Abstract: A cryogenic apparatus for microscopy of physical properties of an object including a thin, stiff, transparent substrate or window within the outer wall of the vacuum space of a dewar and a cryogenic sensor within the vacuum space and spaced very close distances to the window. This construction allows for positioning a sample for measurement outside of the vacuum space, at room temperature or higher and for microscopy of physical properties of the sample by monitoring the output from the cryogenic sensor as it is scanned along the surface of the sample.Type: GrantFiled: February 12, 1996Date of Patent: April 13, 1999Assignee: University of MarylandInventors: Frederick Charles Wellstood, Yonggyu Gim, Randall Christopher Black, Steven M. Green
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Patent number: 5880584Abstract: A revolution-speed/temperature hybrid sensor includes a hybrid sensor unit which has a five-input-three-output convertor and outputs a revolution-speed/temperature hybrid signal, and a revolution-speed/temperature detector for separating the revolution-speed/temperature hybrid signal. The five-input-three-output convertor has an adder for adding the revolution speed signal of pulse waveform and temperature signal of analog form so as to generate a revolution-speed/temperature hybrid signal. By virtue of the five-input-three-output convertor, the revolution-speed/temperature hybrid sensor requires a smaller number of harnesses and is downsized compared to a conventional arrangement.Type: GrantFiled: January 17, 1997Date of Patent: March 9, 1999Assignee: Honda Giken Kogyo Kabushiki KaishaInventors: Takashi Arai, Hiroyuki Kuki, Hideo Seki
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Patent number: 5798641Abstract: A torque magnetometer employing integrated piezoresistive levers to measure magnetization of very small anisotropic samples. A sample holding platform is cantilevered from the substrate by parallel legs on which piezoresistors have been applied. A Wheatstone bridge, which includes the piezoresistors, is completely integrated on a magnetometer substrate. Specific output connections are made to the electrical conductors of the bridge in a manner to eliminate Hall effect error signals in an alternative embodiment.Type: GrantFiled: March 17, 1997Date of Patent: August 25, 1998Assignee: Quantum Design, Inc.Inventors: Stefano Spagna, Michael Bancroft Simmonds
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Patent number: 5793203Abstract: A measurement system for measuring material deterioration in accordance with a magnetic field of the material in the presence of radiation. The measurement system includes a detection circuit which detects a magnetic field of the material and generates a signal indicative thereof which signal includes noise due to the radiation, a signal processing circuit including semiconductor devices to process the signal generated from the detection circuit and a noise reducing circuit for at least reducing noise in the generated signal which is due to the radiation. The signal processing circuit is installed at a place where a dose equivalent of radiation is equal to or smaller than that of a place where the detection circuit is installed.Type: GrantFiled: December 5, 1995Date of Patent: August 11, 1998Assignee: Hitachi, Ltd.Inventors: Eriko Takeda, Toshikazu Nishino, Masahiro Otaka, Ren Morinaka, Fuminobu Takahashi
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Patent number: 5781008Abstract: An apparatus for measuring the thickness of a slag layer on a metal melt in a metallurgical vessel comprises a first inductive eddy current sensor which indicates the distance of the apparatus from the metal melt as it is moved toward the melt. A second sensor detects when the apparatus reaches a predetermined distance relative to or contacts the slag layer and triggers the inductive eddy-current sensor when such distance is attained. The sensors are arranged in predetermined spatial relation and the thickness of the slag layer is determined by an evaluation device which analyzes the received signals. The apparatus permits measurement of the thickness of the slay layer without the need of additional equipment (e.g. mechanical lance movement or distance measurement).Type: GrantFiled: August 30, 1996Date of Patent: July 14, 1998Assignee: Amepa Engineering GmbHInventors: Joachim Muller, Hartmut Haubrich
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Patent number: 5773973Abstract: A method of magneto optic imaging to locate the presence of a crack around a circular drilled bolt hole wherein the circular bolt hole, because of its sharp corners, locally disturbs the magnetic field used to form the image and obscures the presence of a crack therearound. Initially, a magneto optic image is formed of the drilled circular bolt hole under test, wherein a crack near the circular hole will perturb the circularity of the hole image by driving the magnetic field away from the circumference of the circular hole to cause it to appear out of round and eccentric. A pattern recognition analysis is then applied to the image to check the image for circular shapes, wherein each circular shape image is correlated with a circle of similar diameter to check the circularity of the image, and an eccentricity of the circular image shape is indicative of a crack around the drilled circular bolt hole.Type: GrantFiled: March 26, 1996Date of Patent: June 30, 1998Assignee: Northrop Grumman CorporationInventor: Michael Horn
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Patent number: 5770948Abstract: An apparatus for rotary signal coupling in in-situ monitoring of a chemical-mechanical polishing process by a polisher is provided with a sensor fixed to a rotatable wafer carrier for creating a signal responsive to the chemical mechanical polishing process, a conductor coupled to the sensor for receiving the signal, the conductor fixed to the rotatable wafer carrier, a contact coupled to the conductor, the contact fixed to a stationary drive arm, and signal transfer means coupled to the contact for transferring the signal to a monitoring means.Type: GrantFiled: March 19, 1996Date of Patent: June 23, 1998Assignee: International Business Machines CorporationInventors: Leping Li, Steven George Barbee, Arnold Halperin, Richard Mars Ruggiero, William Joseph Surovie
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Patent number: 5764053Abstract: An apparatus for use in Differential Optical Absorption Spectroscopy (DOAS) or in other optical apparatus provides a moveable or oscillating aperture. It has a sensor for detecting the position of the aperture, and a drive for oscillating the aperture; the drive and sensor can comprise coils forming a linear variable differential transformer, and the aperture can be spring biased to a neutral position. A control circuit is connected between the coil or other sensor and the drive coils, so that the motion of the aperture follows a desired profile. This enables significant parts of the apertures motion to be constrained to be linear. The aperture can be provided in a shuttle mounted on extension arms, whose ends are connected to resilient biassing means which serve both to support the shuttle and to bias it. More preferably, extension arms extend through pole pieces of magnets, which provide a magnetic field for drive coils.Type: GrantFiled: July 14, 1995Date of Patent: June 9, 1998Assignee: Unisearch Associates Inc.Inventors: John Robbins, Shachar Nadler
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Patent number: 5744953Abstract: The motion of a person is measured in real time using magnetic fields. A magnetic transmitter and a number of magnetic receivers are placed at different points on the person. The transmitter transmits magnetic fields sequentially from three orthogonal coils. The magnetic field is received at each receiver, which consists of three orthogonal coils. The computer resolves the sequential position and orientation coordinates from each receiver into the person's movement, relative to the transmitter, from knowledge of where each receiver is placed on the person. Other embodiments measure the transmitter's position and orientation relative to a fixed location outside of the person. The computer then resolves the position and orientation data into the person's motion relative to the fixed location outside of the person.Type: GrantFiled: August 29, 1996Date of Patent: April 28, 1998Assignee: Ascension Technology CorporationInventor: Per Krogh Hansen
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Patent number: 5723978Abstract: A magnetic device, comprises a first magnetic layer; a second magnetic layer on the magnetic layer and having a coercive force smaller than that of the first magnetic layer; a semiconductor layer between the first and second magnetic layers so that photo-induced magnetism occurs between the first and second magnetic layers when the semiconductor layer is irradiated with light, a third magnetic layer on the second magnetic layer, the third magnetic layer having a coercive force larger than the coercive force of the second magnetic layer, and a second semiconductor layer between the second and third magnetic layers, magnetism being induced between the second and third magnetic layers when the second semiconductor layer is irradiated with light.Type: GrantFiled: February 23, 1995Date of Patent: March 3, 1998Assignee: Kabushiki Kaisha ToshibaInventors: Koichiro Inomata, Roger Highmore, Keiichiro Yusu, Yoshinori Takahashi
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Patent number: 5712564Abstract: A low-cost, portable, magnetic ink printer calibration system including a device which directly measures magnetic flux from recorded magnetic ink characters and provides an electrical signal representative of that flux, an amplifier to convert the electrical signal into a readable signal level, and a device to provide a measure of that signal level so that the signal can be compared to one produced by a reference character and the comparison results used for printer calibration.Type: GrantFiled: December 29, 1995Date of Patent: January 27, 1998Assignee: Unisys CorporationInventor: Thomas D. Hayosh
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Patent number: 5703484Abstract: The pitch sensor of the invention includes a sealed container filled about half full with a magnetic liquid. A pair of coils are wound around the container and produce inductances corresponding to the amount of magnetic liquid disposed within the opening of the coils. As the angle of inclination of the pitch sensor changes, the volume of magnetic liquid becomes greater in one coil, as compared to the other coil, thereby providing a differential inductance. A pulsing circuit pulses the inductances and produces an analog voltage corresponding to the absolute angle of pitch, and a polarity voltage corresponding to the angle quadrant.Type: GrantFiled: October 4, 1993Date of Patent: December 30, 1997Assignee: The Charles Machine Works, Inc.Inventors: John W. Bieberdorf, John C. Wisehart, Greg W. Draper
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Patent number: 5682096Abstract: A monitor assembly for a media autochanger having a media holder assembly which is rotatable with respect to a media autochanger support frame about a media holder rotation axis. The media holder assembly includes first and second media engaging members. The monitor assembly includes first indicia located on the first media engaging member, second indicia located on the second media engaging member and an indicia sensor mounted on the support frame. The monitor assembly determines the angular orientation of the media holder assembly and whether an adjacent media engaging member is in a linear registration position by analyzing the indicia sensor signal.Type: GrantFiled: January 5, 1995Date of Patent: October 28, 1997Assignee: Hewlett-Packard CompanyInventors: Leslie Christie, Jr., Thomas E. Berg, Gregg S. Schmidtke
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Patent number: 5664948Abstract: Advertising information is preloaded into a collection of remote receiving and presentation devices. A presentation command delivered to the device then causes presentation of the stored advertisement. Each stored advertisement is also associated with one or more presentation conditions causing, when detected, automatic presentation. Such presentation conditions include proximity to a given location, scheduled periodic presentation, time of day presentation, and a variety of other conditions detectable at the remote presentation device. The illustrated method and apparatus for advertising presentation requires but a single broadcast signal transmission of a given advertisement, but provides multiple presentations of such advertisement at the presenting devices. In this manner, the advertiser enjoys efficient use of broadcast signal transmission time.Type: GrantFiled: October 11, 1994Date of Patent: September 9, 1997Assignee: Seiko Communications Holding N.V.Inventors: Dimitri Dimitriadis, Michael C. Park
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Patent number: 5666050Abstract: A well apparatus for detecting the position of a moving element in a well. Downhole well tools normally comprise a magnetically permeable material which forms a Faraday Shield to interrupt the flux of a magnet positioned within the well tool. The invention attaches a magnet to a moving element surrounded by a magnetically permeable second element, and a magnetic sensor is positioned within a recess in the second element. The magnetic sensor detects the proximate position of the magnet and generates a signal. The signal can be transmitted to a surface controller for display or for generating a command signal to displace the moving element within the second element. A single wire can transmit signals from multiple sensors in a sensor array, and the absolute position and movement rate of the moving element can be identified by the sensor array. The magnet can comprise a permanent magnet or can comprise an electromagnet.Type: GrantFiled: November 20, 1995Date of Patent: September 9, 1997Assignee: PES, Inc.Inventors: Brett Bouldin, Steve Owens
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Patent number: 5661398Abstract: A circuit for resolving a magnetic field, including a first channel including a first magnetic field sensor, a first amplifier coupled to and receiving an output from said first magnetic field sensor, and a first three band detector coupled to and receiving an output from said first amplifier. The first three band detector provides a first two bit output. A second channel includes a second magnetic field sensor, a second amplifier coupled to and receiving an output from said second magnetic field sensor, and a second three band detector coupled to and receiving an output from said second amplifier. The second three band detector provides a second two bit output. The first and second magnetic field sensors are arranged orthogonally to one another such that said first and second two bit outputs resolve the magnetic field into eight bearings.Type: GrantFiled: June 30, 1995Date of Patent: August 26, 1997Assignee: Acumen, Inc.Inventors: Ka Yiu Sham, Philip Lim-Kong Wong
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Patent number: 5659247Abstract: A metal detection device is disclosed and includes a housing defining a central aperture. An induction member is mounted to the housing and surrounds the aperture for generating an output voltage in response to the presence of a metal object near the induction member. A mechanism is provided for calibrating the induction member by comparing the output voltage to a reference voltage to establish a threshold voltage which is unaffected by transient fluctuations in the output voltage. A mechanism is also provided in the housing and spaced about the aperture for selectively sensing an object passing through the aperture. The sensing mechanism generates a detection signal in response to passage of an object through the aperture only upon activation of the sensing mechanism. A mechanism activates the sensing mechanism upon generation of an inductive member output voltage above the threshold voltage. Finally, a device is provided for triggering an alarm in response to the generation of the detection signal.Type: GrantFiled: December 11, 1995Date of Patent: August 19, 1997Assignee: Denver Dynamics, Inc.Inventor: Philip E. Clements
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Patent number: 5633589Abstract: The present invention provides a locator/monitor capable of locating a boring tool and monitoring the progress of the tool for control purposes. The locator/monitor may be used in expedited locating methodology and straightforward calibration techniques of the present invention. A durable and cost effective pitch sensor is also provided by the present invention. In addition, the present invention provides a slotted transmitter housing formed of an electrically conductive material, where the magnetic field generated by the transmitter is capable of penetrating to the surface.Type: GrantFiled: May 16, 1995Date of Patent: May 27, 1997Inventor: John E. Mercer
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Patent number: 5629626Abstract: Apparatus and method for collecting magnetometer data at the earth's surface in order to detect anomalies in the earth's magnetic field caused by buried ferromagnetic objects. A plurality of magnetometers are provided in a predetermined array on a mobile platform. A fixed station is also provided on the earth's surface, and navigational data from a global positioning system (GPS) is collected on the locations of the fixed station and mobile platform in synchronization with a sync signal received from the GPS. While the mobile platform traverses an area on the earth's surface, magnetometer data is collected in synchronization with the sync signal. The apparatus and method provide a significant improvement in the amount of area which can be surveyed in a given time period and in the precision of the location and magnetic field intensity data collected.Type: GrantFiled: July 12, 1994Date of Patent: May 13, 1997Assignee: Geo-Centers, Inc.Inventors: Richard J. Russell, Alan L. Crandall, Robert M. Siegel, John E. Foley, Thomas A. Glenn, Thomas J. Gorman
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Patent number: 5623379Abstract: A method of controlling start-up of a sensorless spindle motor used in a disk apparatus reduces time spent on start-up of a spindle motor with high reliability. The motor is used for rotating a disk on which information is recorded, and no sensor is provided in the motor for sensing an angular position of a rotor relative to a stator of the motor. The motor is operated at a steady rotational speed and is stopped by supplying a stop command. An aligning operation is performed immediately after the motor is stopped. The aligning operation is performed to rotate the rotor to a predetermined angular position relative to the stator of said motor. The motor is operated at a steady speed by a synchronization control when operation of the motor is started by supplying a start command.Type: GrantFiled: February 7, 1995Date of Patent: April 22, 1997Assignee: Fujitsu LimitedInventors: Kazuo Nishimura, Tatsuro Sasamoto
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Patent number: 5610516Abstract: The description relates to a process and a device for checking for the presence of metal in refuse contained in a refuse container. To check the contents of a refuse container (12), the latter is scanned by at least one metal detector (15) at the pick-up site before being emptied and an electric and/or acoustic and/or optical signal is generated when metal is detected.Type: GrantFiled: October 4, 1994Date of Patent: March 11, 1997Inventor: Hans-Jurgen Maier
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Patent number: 5594595Abstract: A method for testing slider/disk contact in a disk drive is described. The disk drive comprises a rotating disk and a head mounted by an actuator for selective positioning of the head over the disk, the head having a slider, and a flexure for attaching the head to the actuator. The method includes the steps of rotating the disk of the disk drive at a first preselected rotational velocity, using the head of the disk drive to write a signal having a substantially uniform pattern on the disk as it rotates, thereafter rotating the disk at a second preselected rotational velocity, while rotating the disk at the second preselected rotational velocity, using the head to read back the signal written at the first preselected rotational velocity, and performing an FM demodulation of the read back signal through a frequency range corresponding to a range of natural frequencies of vibration of the flexure caused by slider/disk contact.Type: GrantFiled: January 19, 1995Date of Patent: January 14, 1997Assignee: Conner Peripherals, Inc.Inventor: Li-Yan Zhu
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Patent number: 5592078Abstract: A detector and tracker using a three coil sensor for is disclosed. The detector detects eddy current variations caused by differences in electromagnetic characteristics in two adjacent materials. The eddy current variations are measured and compared to determine the magnitude and direction the detector may be from the center of one of the adjacent materials. The magnitude and direction determination by the detector can be used to drive a process controller to position the sensor.Type: GrantFiled: November 29, 1994Date of Patent: January 7, 1997Assignee: Dapco Industries, Inc.Inventors: David W. Giragosian, James R. Norris, Jr., Howard A. Sholl
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Patent number: 5584838Abstract: A femoral nail which can be implanted in a bone has a transverse hole, and an arrangement is provided for generating a magnetic field which has a maximum strength along an axis of the transverse hole and which decreases in strength in directions radially away from the axis. A drill guide for axially aligning a drill with the transverse hole has an axial drill opening through it, and first and second sensor arrangements are provided at axially spaced locations on the drill guide and each have a plurality of sensors which are at angularly spaced locations and are spaced radially from the opening through the drill guide. An arrangement responsive to the first and second sensor arrangements detects a deviation of the drill opening in the drill guide from coaxial alignment with the axis of the hole in the member, and provides an operator perceptible indication of a radial direction from the drill opening to the axis.Type: GrantFiled: February 28, 1994Date of Patent: December 17, 1996Assignee: Stryker CorporationInventors: Mehmet Rona, Douglas J. Ely, James A. Evans, Matthew S. Alves, Lisa D. Sertic, Christopher D. Philipp
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Patent number: 5583631Abstract: An anti-counterfeit security device for documents in general in the form of a tape-like or filament-like supporting element made of polyester. On the tape or filament, a first security element is provided which can be detected by devices and is constituted by regions made of a material which can be detected by magnetoresistors and are arranged in succession to generate a signal that can be decoded by the magnetoresistors, and a second security element is also provided, visually detectable in transmitted light, which is constituted by portions of the regions that are free from the magnetoresistor-detectable material in order to form graphic markings optically perceivable in transmitted light.Type: GrantFiled: December 8, 1995Date of Patent: December 10, 1996Assignee: Mantegazza Antonio Arti Grafiche S.r.l.Inventor: Maurizio Lazzerini
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Patent number: 5576621Abstract: A metal detector especially adapted to prevent the inadvertent or unauthorized deposit of metal objects into receptacles includes a housing provided with a central opening surrounded by a funnel-like surface for directing articles into a receptacle such as a medical waste disposal bag, a trash can, or a laundry hamper. For use in the medical field to prevent the inadvertent disposal of surgical instruments, the metal detector housing may be pivotally connected by a hinge mechanism to a medical waste bag disposal bag holding cart to allow convenient removal and replacement of disposal bags. Battery powered detection circuitry includes a detector coil surrounding the central opening and operative to trigger visual and audible alarms for signalling the passage of a metal article through the housing opening if the output voltage in the detector circuit exceeds a predetermined threshold value.Type: GrantFiled: March 10, 1994Date of Patent: November 19, 1996Assignee: Denver Dynamics, Inc.Inventor: Philip E. Clements
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Patent number: 5574223Abstract: An ultrasonic scan assembly is adapted to efficiently scan a surface and cross-section of a wall of an elongated cylindrical object. The ultrasonic scan assembly has a rotatable sensor section capable of rotating as the scan assembly is advanced axially along the elongated cylindrical object. In operation, the scan assembly is advanced in an axial direction along elongated cylindrical object, and the sensor section of the scan assembly is rotated so as to create a helical scan pattern. For at least a portion of the cylindrical object, the angular velocity of the sensor section is modulated. As a result, that portion of the cylindrical object is scanned at more than one scan rate.Type: GrantFiled: June 30, 1995Date of Patent: November 12, 1996Assignee: Gas Research InstituteInventor: Karl F. Kiefer
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Patent number: 5559437Abstract: A process and apparatus for the non-destructive checking of the condition of a metal reinforcement element of magnetic material in a tire (11) whereinthe metallic reinforcement element is subjected to a magnetic field in order to magnetize it;relative movement is produced between the metallic reinforcement element of the tire (11) and at least one conductor (31) of a detecting device (30) placed opposite the metallic reinforcement element in such a manner than any variation in magnetization of the element produces an electromotive force in the conductor (31);the electromotive force is detected in order to obtain information as to the condition of said magnetized metallic reinforcement element.Type: GrantFiled: May 1, 1995Date of Patent: September 24, 1996Assignee: Pneu LaurentInventors: Armand Baccaud, Damien Baudrit
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Patent number: 5552703Abstract: An elongate vessel, preferably cylindrical, is partially filled with a conductive and/or ferromagnetic fluid. At least two coils are wound on the vessel in longitudinally different regions so that tilting the vessel varies the amount of the fluid inside the coils differently. This affects their inductances. The variation in inductances is monitored, directly or indirectly, e.g. by applying an AC signal to the coils and monitoring the voltage drops across them. This provides an electrical output related to the inclination of the sensor's axis. It is unaffected by rotation about the axis. Thus the sensor can be used to monitor the orientation of the axis of a drilling tool, e.g. a mole, which rotates about its axis.Type: GrantFiled: September 17, 1993Date of Patent: September 3, 1996Assignee: Radiodetection LimitedInventor: Donald L. Hore
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Patent number: 5548213Abstract: A method and system for accurately inspecting an electroconductive film using an eddy current and a process and apparatus for production of an optical fiber which measures on-line the electrical resistance, which shows the state of formation of the electroconductive hermetic coating of the optical fiber by the electroconductive film inspection method and reflects back the measurement results to the hermetic coating forming conditions. Optical fiber is made up of a core, a cladding, an amorphous carbon film or other electroconductive hermetic coating formed on the outer surface of the cladding, and a protective coating. The electrical resistance of the hermetic coating generates an eddy current at the coating, the eddy current generated is detected, and the phase angle of the complex impedance is detected to enable calculation.Type: GrantFiled: September 14, 1993Date of Patent: August 20, 1996Assignee: The Furukawa Electric Co., Ltd.Inventors: Yukio Kohmura, Yoshinori Ishida, Takashi Hibino
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Patent number: 5541522Abstract: A conformal tip for an open-end coaxial sensor utilized for non-destructive testing of material, includes a first plurality of resiliently retractable pins connected axially with a first conductor of the coaxial sensor and a second plurality of resiliently retractable pins connected axially with a second conductor of the coaxial sensor.Type: GrantFiled: December 6, 1994Date of Patent: July 30, 1996Assignee: Northrop Grumman CorporationInventors: Mark D. A. Rosen, Paul J. Scheno, Mark A. Lizza