Concentricity Patents (Class 33/550)
  • Patent number: 7086169
    Abstract: What is provided in one embodiment is a method and apparatus for confirming that one or more items in a universe of items fall within specified tolerances. In another embodiment various methods for determining best fit between items in a universe of items is provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 22, 2005
    Date of Patent: August 8, 2006
    Assignee: Project Consulting Services, Inc.
    Inventors: Dalan Bayham, Hung Tran, Christopher Dubea, Michael Istre, Kenneth Breaux
  • Patent number: 7043851
    Abstract: A mechanical support device for assisting individuals in setting up, creating, and verifying concentricity and roundness of a step cylindrical feature. The mechanical support device comprises a base and an adjustable section that is removably coupled to the base. The angle present in a groove located between the base and the adjustable section is designed to be either sixty, ninety, or one hundred twenty degrees. Items that are designed to be concentric with extremely low standards for variance would be placed flat within the groove and hand-rotated to check for any variance present. The mechanical support device can alternatively be used as a planer gage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 30, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 16, 2006
    Inventor: Michael Le
  • Patent number: 7024785
    Abstract: An apparatus for checking the diameter of crankpins of a crankshaft in the course of the machining in a grinding machine includes a Vee-shaped reference device, a measuring device associated with the reference device and including a feeler axially movable along the bisecting line of the Vee-shaped reference device, and a support device with a first arm rotating with respect to a support arranged on the grinding-wheel slide and a second arm rotating with respect to the first and carrying the Vee-shaped reference device. A guiding mechanism includes a limiting device, with mutually abutting surfaces and coupled to the support device, that guides the displacement of the reference device along a trajectory substantially parallel to the profile of the grinding wheel, allows the engagement of the reference device on a crankpin to be checked while the latter is orbitally moving, and does not interfere with the displacements of the support device caused by the orbital motion of the crankpin in the checking condition.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 20, 2004
    Date of Patent: April 11, 2006
    Assignee: Marposs Societa' per Azioni
    Inventors: Carlo Dall'Aglio, William Montanari
  • Patent number: 7020974
    Abstract: An apparatus for checking diameter and roundness of crankpins (42) in the course of the machining in a grinding machine, includes a Vee-shaped reference device (70), a gauging device with a movable feeler (67) associated with the Vee-shaped device (70) and a movable support (5, 40, 41, 60) device for the Vee-shaped reference device. The movable support device is coupled (5) to the grinding-wheel slide (1) and includes, in working condition, two parallelogram structures (40, 41) in series enabling substantially translation displacements of the Vee-shaped device (70).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 2, 2003
    Date of Patent: April 4, 2006
    Assignee: Marposs Societa′ per Azioni
    Inventors: Franco Danielli, Michele Gulinelli, Gabriele Soattin
  • Patent number: 6996913
    Abstract: An apparatus and method are provided for circumferentially measuring cross-sectional characteristics of a tubular member. The apparatus includes first and second template members that cooperably define an aperture for receiving the tubular member. At least one of the template members is adjustable so that the aperture can be adjusted between open and closed positions. A measurement device can be configured to detect the relative position of the first and second template members, thereby measuring the relative adjustment of the members between the open and closed positions. This measurement is indicative of the cross-sectional size of the tubular member, e.g., for determining the diameter of the tubular member. Alternatively, multiple measurement devices can respond to a contact force between the measurement devices and the tubular member, e.g., to determine a variation in wall thickness of the tubular member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 29, 2004
    Date of Patent: February 14, 2006
    Assignee: The Boeing Company
    Inventors: Matthew K. S. Lum, Albert E. Seifert, Mark L. Younie
  • Patent number: 6954991
    Abstract: A pair of reference portions 20 and 20 is brought into contact with an internal peripheral surface 11 of the vicinity of both side end portions of a tubular body 10. The tubular body 10 is rotated such that contact portions where the tubular body 10 and the pair of reference portions 20 and 20 contact move on the internal peripheral surface 11 in a circumferential direction of the tubular body 10 with positions of the pair of reference portions 20 and 20 fixed. The radial displacement of an external peripheral surface 12 of the tubular body 10 caused by the rotation of the tubular body 10 at at least one position 31 and 32 of an external side of the tubular element 10 is detected, wherein the at least one position is fixed relative to the circumferential direction of the tubular element 10.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 12, 2003
    Date of Patent: October 18, 2005
    Assignee: Showa Denko K.K.
    Inventors: Takumi Akatsuka, So Kanai
  • Patent number: 6901676
    Abstract: A device and method are provided for inspecting an eccentric bushing having interior and exterior surfaces. The device includes a fixed roller and a pair of movable rollers disposed in a triangular configuration. The eccentric roller is disposed between the fixable roller and the movable rollers such that the fixed roller is disposed against an interior surface of the bushing and the movable rollers are disposed against the exterior surface of the bushing. A contact element of a gauge is disposed between the movable rollers and against the exterior surface of the bushing. Rotation of the eccentric bushing moves the contact element, which causes a display of the gauge to provide readings showing changes in the distance between the interior and exterior surfaces of the bushing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 6, 2004
    Date of Patent: June 7, 2005
    Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: David Macke
  • Patent number: 6889541
    Abstract: Specific pressure and temperature conditions of an engine being measured are achieved by a compressor and a coolant controller, and bore distortion is measured as a gap between a rotation unit and a cylinder wall, wherein the measuring position may be vertically and angularly varied.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 29, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 10, 2005
    Assignee: Hyundai Motor Company
    Inventor: Ho Gyong Kang
  • Patent number: 6886264
    Abstract: A reference fixture (20) for a roundness measuring instrument performs acquisition of origin information of a roundness measuring instrument (1) including a workpiece rotary mechanism (3) on which a workpiece is set and a probe (14) provided with a stylus (14a) and also performs calibration of the probe (14). The reference fixture (20) includes a mount (21), a calibration master (22) provided on a top face of the mount (21) for calibrating the sensitivity of the probe (14), an origin ball (23) disposed above the calibration master (22) for providing the origin information of the roundness measuring instrument (1) by the stylus (14a) of the probe (14), and a holder (25) that holds the origin ball (23).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 7, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 3, 2005
    Assignee: Mitutoyo Corporation
    Inventors: Yukihiro Sakata, Yoshiyuki Oomori, Hideki Shindo, Kazushi Noguchi
  • Patent number: 6883242
    Abstract: Methods and apparatuses for aligning the component parts of a drum assembly are disclosed. One aspect of the invention relates to tools for measuring and aligning the component parts of the drum assembly. By way of example, the tools may include indicator tools for measuring the relative position of the component parts, as well as alignment tools for aligning the component parts in accordance with the measurements. Another aspect of the invention relates to methods of measuring and aligning the component parts of the drum assembly. By way of example, some methods may pertain to aligning the upper drum and/or the drum support of the drum assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 19, 2003
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2005
    Assignee: Athan Corporation
    Inventors: George Athanasiou, Constantine Athanasiou
  • Patent number: 6871416
    Abstract: A wobble and eccentricity sensing device is provided for use with a planter blade. The device includes a stand having a shaft adapted to mount the planter blade thereon for rotational movement of the planter blade about the shaft. A wobble indicator is coupled to the stand to measure the concavity of the planter blade as the planter blade rotates at least one revolution about the shaft. The wobble indicator is adapted to contact a face of the planter blade. An eccentricity indicator is also coupled to the stand and is adapted to contact an outer edge of the planter blade to measure the eccentricity of the planter blade as the planter blade rotates at least one revolution about the shaft.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 19, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 29, 2005
    Assignee: Canyon Street Crossing, LLC
    Inventors: Joseph W. Leja, Louie R. D'Orazio
  • Patent number: 6868618
    Abstract: The invention is a gauge and method for measuring any circular object, but is most useful as a precision thread gauge for objects having either external or internal threads. A fixed gauge roll is supported in a stationary position. A first and second gauge rolls are supported so that the first and second gauge rolls simultaneously move with respect to the fixed gauge roll. The fixed gauge roll, first and second gauge roll together form a triangle. The interior angles of the triangle remain unchanged for every position of the three gauge rolls.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 20, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 22, 2005
    Inventor: Marcello Navarro
  • Patent number: 6817109
    Abstract: A measurement device and apparatus for measuring the out-of-roundness of a circular part. The apparatus includes a base on which a travel assembly is mounted within an elongated channel formed in the base. A recirculating ball bearing slide assembly is operatively coupled to a flat strip force spring, which is in turn coupled to ball bearing slide assembly, and which provides a constant contact force, regardless of distance, to bias the travel assembly into a 90-degree corner portion of the base assembly. A generally circular part is placed in the 90-degree corner and manually rotated while the travel assembly is in contact with an outer surface thereof. The linear movement of the travel assembly is detected by a measurement device which provides an indication of the out-of-roundness of the part.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 1, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 16, 2004
    Assignee: The Boeing Company
    Inventors: Kin Y. Wong, Stanley W. Richardson
  • Patent number: 6810593
    Abstract: A method of reducing an n-order component of a radial run out (RRO) of a wheel rim is disclosed, wherein an average Y of RRO Y1 and RRO Y2 of the bead seats is obtained around the wheel rim; the peak-to-peak amplitude X of the n-order component of the average Y is obtained; minimum position(s) at which the n-order component becomes minimum is found to determine deep position(s) P on the wheel rim corresponding to the minimum position(s); a corrective tape having a thickness t of 0.1 to 0.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 22, 2003
    Date of Patent: November 2, 2004
    Assignee: Sumitomo Rubber Industries, Ltd.
    Inventor: Hiroyuki Kobayashi
  • Publication number: 20040200085
    Abstract: A reference fixture (20) for a roundness measuring instrument performs acquisition of origin information of a roundness measuring instrument (1) including a workpiece rotary mechanism (3) on which a workpiece is set and a probe (14) provided with a stylus (14a) and also performs calibration of the probe (14). The reference fixture (20) includes a mount (21), a calibration master (22) provided on a top face of the mount (21) for calibrating the sensitivity of the probe (14), an origin ball (23) disposed above the calibration master (22) for providing the origin information of the roundness measuring instrument (1) by the stylus (14a) of the probe (14), and a holder (25) that holds the origin ball (23).
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 7, 2004
    Publication date: October 14, 2004
    Applicant: MITUTOYO CORPORATION
    Inventors: Yukihiro Sakata, Yoshiyuki Oomori, Hideki Shindo, Kazushi Noguchi
  • Publication number: 20040103549
    Abstract: Methods and apparatuses for aligning the component parts of a drum assembly are disclosed. One aspect of the invention relates to tools for measuring and aligning the component parts of the drum assembly. By way of example, the tools may include indicator tools for measuring the relative position of the component parts, as well as alignment tools for aligning the component parts in accordance with the measurements. Another aspect of the invention relates to methods of measuring and aligning the component parts of the drum assembly. By way of example, some methods may pertain to aligning the upper drum and/or the drum support of the drum assembly.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 19, 2003
    Publication date: June 3, 2004
    Applicant: Athan Corporation
    Inventors: George Athanasiou, Constantine Athanasiou
  • Publication number: 20040083619
    Abstract: A measurement device and apparatus for measuring the out-of-roundness of a circular part. The apparatus includes a base on which a travel assembly is mounted within an elongated channel formed in the base. A recirculating ball bearing slide assembly is operatively coupled to a flat strip force spring, which is in turn coupled to ball bearing slide assembly, and which provides a constant contact force, regardless of distance, to bias the travel assembly into a 90-degree corner portion of the base assembly. A generally circular part is placed in the 90-degree corner and manually rotated while the travel assembly is in contact with an outer surface thereof. The linear movement of the travel assembly is detected by a measurement device which provides an indication of the out-of-roundness of the part.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 1, 2002
    Publication date: May 6, 2004
    Inventors: Kin Y. Wong, Stanley W. Richardson
  • Patent number: 6718645
    Abstract: A measuring device for measuring the concentricity of cartridges (30, 31), more particularly rifle cartridges, is essentially composed of a main body (1) provided with chambers (2) for cartridges of one or a plurality of calibers. The cartridges are radially retained in the chambers by so-called diameter compensators (9) but rotatable about their longitudinal axis. In the area of the point (39) of the projectile, an access for a measuring means (3) is provided, e.g., a dial gauge, the latter indicating the deviation of the projectile from perfect concentricity by the magnitude of its deflection variation when the cartridge (30, 31) is rotated. An aligning device (4) that is preferably also provided allows to exert a lateral pressure on the projectile in order to obtain an improved concentricity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 2, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 13, 2004
    Inventor: Heinz Berger
  • Patent number: 6711829
    Abstract: A method for measuring the diameter and eccentricity of a crankpin of a crankshaft which is ground on a grinding machine. A reference plate is provided on a headstock, which is disposed on a table to support the crankshaft. A measurement apparatus having a probe is disposed on a wheel head. Through movements of the table and the wheel head, the probe is first brought into contact with a reference surface of the reference plate, and is then brought into contact with the outer circumferential surface of the crankpin at outermost and innermost points. The distances between the reference surface and the outermost and innermost points are measured, and the diameter and eccentricity of the crankpin are calculated on the basis of the measured distances and the position of the reference surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 21, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 30, 2004
    Assignee: Toyoda Koki Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Shoichi Sano, Masahiro Ido, Kikutoshi Okada
  • Patent number: 6690991
    Abstract: A machine control gage system has a control unit, which analyzes roundness of a workpiece. The control unit controls a grinding machine controller in such a manner as to machine the workpiece to a desired size according to data measured by a measuring head. The control unit analyzes roundness of the workpiece according to the data measured by the measuring head and displays the roundness on a touch panel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 3, 2000
    Date of Patent: February 10, 2004
    Assignee: Tokyo Seimitsu Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Hiroyuki Kobayashi
  • Patent number: 6684517
    Abstract: A device for determining geometrical defects in a vehicle wheel comprises, for measuring the eccentricity of the wheel rim (5) and of the wheel (4), means (7) to be positioned in contact alternately with the tyre (6) and with the wheel rim (5) of the wheel of which the eccentricity is to be measured, a sensor (8) for measuring the angular position assumed by said means (7) about a fixed reference point (9), and means for associating and processing the data measured by said means (7) and by said sensor (8) to determine the angle through which the tyre (6) must be rotated on the wheel rim (5) to compensate their errors of shape. Said angular sensor (8) comprises a fixed part (80) carried by a shaft (23) associated with self-centering support means (21, 19, 200, 203) arranged to position it exactly coaxial with said wheel rim, and a movable part (81) rotatably mounted on said shaft (23).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 17, 2001
    Date of Patent: February 3, 2004
    Assignee: Corghi S.p.A.
    Inventor: Remo Corghi
  • Patent number: 6678965
    Abstract: Methods and apparatuses for aligning the component parts of a drum assembly are disclosed. One aspect of the invention relates to tools for measuring and aligning the component parts of the drum assembly. By way of example, the tools may include indicator tools for measuring the relative position of the component parts, as well as alignment tools for aligning the component parts in accordance with the measurements. Another aspect of the invention relates to methods of measuring and aligning the component parts of the drum assembly. By way of example, some methods may pertain to aligning the upper drum and/or the drum support of the drum assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 29, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 20, 2004
    Assignee: Athan Corporation
    Inventors: George Athanasiou, Constantine Athanasiou
  • Publication number: 20030200669
    Abstract: Methods and apparatuses for aligning the component parts of a drum assembly are disclosed. One aspect of the invention relates to tools for measuring and aligning the component parts of the drum assembly. By way of example, the tools may include indicator tools for measuring the relative position of the component parts, as well as alignment tools for aligning the component parts in accordance with the measurements. Another aspect of the invention relates to methods of measuring and aligning the component parts of the drum assembly. By way of example, some methods may pertain to aligning the upper drum and/or the drum support of the drum assembly.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 29, 2003
    Publication date: October 30, 2003
    Applicant: Athan Corporation
    Inventors: George Athanasiou, Constantine Athanasiou
  • Publication number: 20030136015
    Abstract: The invention relates to a method and a device for centring a wheel, especially a cycle wheel. The values of the lateral run-out and/or the radial run-out of the wheel rim are measured. The lateral run-out and/or the radial run-out of the wheel rim are then eliminated by rotating the spoke nipple. The lateral run-out and/or the radial run-out are determined by means of measuring devices which can be fixed to a centring stand and which comprise pointer mechanisms (18 and/or 20).
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 5, 2003
    Publication date: July 24, 2003
    Inventor: Peter Lie
  • Patent number: 6588120
    Abstract: Methods and apparatuses for aligning the component parts of a drum assembly are disclosed. One aspect of the invention relates to tools for measuring and aligning the component parts of the drum assembly. By way of example, the tools may include indicator tools for measuring the relative position of the component parts, as well as alignment tools for aligning the component parts in accordance with the measurements. Another aspect of the invention relates to methods of measuring and aligning the component parts of the drum assembly. By way of example, some methods may pertain to aligning the upper drum and/or the drum support of the drum assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 28, 2001
    Date of Patent: July 8, 2003
    Assignee: Athan Corporation
    Inventors: George Athanasiou, Constantine Athanasiou
  • Patent number: 6568096
    Abstract: A device and method for measuring deviations in shape of a generally cylindrical workpiece is disclosed. The device enables measurement of a number of shape-defining parameters while the workpiece is positioned in a machine tool, so that the workpiece does not have to be removed from the machine tool in order for the measurements to be taken. A steadying rest, for use on machine tools to hold a workpiece, especially one having a longitudinal central axis that is rotationally unsymmetrical or unstable with respect to the machining tool, in position to enable measurement of the shape defining parameters and shape deviations while the workpiece is mounted on the machine tool, is also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 2, 2001
    Date of Patent: May 27, 2003
    Assignee: Obschestvo s Ogranichennoi Otvetctvennostju “Tekhnomash”
    Inventors: Mark Mikhailovich Svitkin, Iosif Davydovich Gebel, Askold Ivanovich Nefedov, Yakov Isakovich Binder
  • Publication number: 20030046822
    Abstract: A measuring device for measuring the concentricity of cartridges (30, 31), more particularly rifle cartridges, is essentially composed of a main body (1) provided with chambers (2) for cartridges of one or a plurality of calibers. The cartridges are radially retained in the chambers by so-called diameter compensators (9) but rotatable about their longitudinal axis. In the area of the point (39) of the projectile, an access for a measuring means (3) is provided, e.g. a dial gauge, the latter indicating the deviation of the projectile from perfect concentricity by the magnitude of its deflection variation when the cartridge (30, 31) is rotated. An aligning device (4) that is preferably also provided allows to exert a lateral pressure on the projectile in order to obtain an improved concentricity.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 28, 2002
    Publication date: March 13, 2003
    Inventor: Heinz BERGER
  • Patent number: 6526671
    Abstract: An adapter for a precision inspection instrument used for measurement of rollers or rolls in the paper, steel, film industry, without contacting the rollers or rolls. The adapter employs a high pressure fluid, such as compressed air, which emerges through a plurality of nozzles to form an air cushion for supporting the adapter nears the roller. Additionally, the adapter can be provided with adjustable, specifically defined surfaces having nozzles for forming the air cushion on rollers of various dimensions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 21, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 4, 2003
    Assignee: Pruftechnik Dieter Busch AG
    Inventor: Michael Hermann
  • Publication number: 20020178598
    Abstract: A measuring device for measuring the concentricity of cartridges (30, 31), more particularly rifle cartridges, is essentially composed of a main body (1) provided with chambers (2) for cartridges of one or a plurality of calibers. The cartridges are radially retained in the chambers by so-called diameter compensators (9) but rotatable about their longitudinal axis. In the area of the point (39) of the projectile, an access for a measuring means (3) is provided, e.g. a dial gauge, the latter indicating the deviation of the projectile from perfect concentricity by the magnitude of its deflection variation when the cartridge (30, 31) is rotated. An aligning device (4) that is preferably also provided allows to exert a lateral pressure on the projectile in order to obtain an improved concentricity.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 28, 2002
    Publication date: December 5, 2002
    Inventor: Heinz Berger
  • Patent number: 6463669
    Abstract: An apparatus is provided for checking the shape of a part having a portion which is a cylinder of revolution around an axis and a reference end face. The apparatus includes a base and a support arrangement mounted on the base for receiving the cylinder portion and comprising two V-shaped pieces. A positioning arrangement is provided for positioning the part axially with respect to the reference end face. A mechanism is provided for driving the part in rotation about the axis. The positioning arrangement comprises a rectilinear portion with an hemispheric end providing an abutment for the end face. The rectilinear portion is mounted slidingly on the base along a direction which forms, with respect to the axis, an angle corresponding to the half of the angle of the V-shaped pieces. An adjustment means is provided for adjusting the position of the rectilinear portion in a manner which maintains the abutment point of the hemispheric end with the end face on the axis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 13, 2000
    Date of Patent: October 15, 2002
    Assignee: Rollomatic S.A.
    Inventors: Michel Rollier, Pierre Tschampion
  • Publication number: 20020069548
    Abstract: Methods and apparatuses for aligning the component parts of a drum assembly are disclosed. One aspect of the invention relates to tools for measuring and aligning the component parts of the drum assembly. By way of example, the tools may include indicator tools for measuring the relative position of the component parts, as well as alignment tools for aligning the component parts in accordance with the measurements. Another aspect of the invention relates to methods of measuring and aligning the component parts of the drum assembly. By way of example, some methods may pertain to aligning the upper drum and/or the drum support of the drum assembly.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 28, 2001
    Publication date: June 13, 2002
    Applicant: Athan Corporation
    Inventors: George Athanasiou, Constantine Athanasiou
  • Publication number: 20020056204
    Abstract: A device for determining geometrical defects in a vehicle wheel comprises, for measuring the eccentricity of the wheel rim (5) and of the wheel (4), means (7) to be positioned in contact alternately with the tire (6) and with the wheel rim (5) of the wheel of which the eccentricity is to be measured, a sensor (8) for measuring the angular position assumed by said means (7) about a fixed reference point (9), and means for associating and processing the data measured by said means (7) and by said sensor (8) to determine the angle through which the tire (6) must be rotated on the wheel rim (5) to compensate their errors of shape. Said angular sensor (8) comprises a fixed part (80) carried by a shaft (23) associated with self-centering support means (21, 19, 200, 203) arranged to position it exactly coaxial with said wheel rim, and a movable part (81) rotatably mounted on said shaft (23).
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 17, 2001
    Publication date: May 16, 2002
    Applicant: CORGHI S.P.A.
    Inventor: Remo Corghi
  • Patent number: 6357129
    Abstract: A device measures cylindricity of a cylinder having an axial end, a circumference and an inside diameter. The device includes a track for placement at an axial end of the cylinder to be measured. The track extends around the circumference of the cylinder. A pair of trucks are mounded to the track for movement around the cylinder circumference. A sighting beam generator, in particular, a laser, is connected to each truck for aiming sighting beams axially along the inside diameter of the cylinder. A micrometer adjustment is connected between each laser and its truck for adjusting a radial position of each sighting beam.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 21, 2000
    Date of Patent: March 19, 2002
    Assignee: Babcock & Wilcox Canada, Ltd.
    Inventors: George M. Gray, Daniel S. Cormier
  • Patent number: 6330753
    Abstract: A large diameter gauge consists of a series of measuring units. Each measuring unit comprises two positioning elements(11,12), a fastener(14) and a body(13). These series of measuring units are placed and fixed sequentially and head to end or end to head around the circumference of the cylinder or hole to be measured during measuring until the remained space is not large enough to be put into another one measuring unit. Measuring the distance between the first measuring unit and the last measuring unit, the diameter to be measured can be obtained through the geometric relations between the gauges and the cylinder or hole to be measured.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 30, 1999
    Date of Patent: December 18, 2001
    Assignee: Southeast University
    Inventor: Bin Li
  • Patent number: 6327788
    Abstract: A nominally cylindrical surface of a workpiece is sensed by a stylus displaceable radially of an axis of rotation of the surface relative to a support column defining a reference datum so that the stylus follows the cylindrical surface at a given height along the surface. Relative rotation of the workpiece and the stylus about the axis of rotation of the surface is effected and the displacement of the stylus used to determine information relating to the radial form of the surface at that height. These measurements are represented at different heights along the surface so as to determine its cylindrical form. The displacement of the stylus from a given position on the surface at each height before and after rotation of the stylus and workpiece through 180° are measured and the resulting measurements used to compensate for any error or deviation in the reference datum.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 20, 1999
    Date of Patent: December 11, 2001
    Assignee: Taylor Hobson Limited
    Inventors: Peter Seddon, Michael Mills, Paul James Scott, Roy George White, Derek Roger Whittle
  • Patent number: 6278520
    Abstract: A method and device are provided for disposing a part of a generally cylindrical work piece in a path of a laser beam such that a first portion of the beam passes by one side of the work piece, positioning a laser beam receiving processor in a manner to receive the first portion of the laser beam in order to enable a determination a size of the part, disposing another part of the generally cylindrical work piece in a generally V-shaped seat such that the work piece contacts two sides of the V-shaped seat, and applying sufficient force on the second part in a manner to cause slidable rotation of the work piece in the V-shaped seat while maintaining contact with the two sides.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 13, 1999
    Date of Patent: August 21, 2001
    Assignee: Beta Laser Mike, Inc.
    Inventors: Scott Boyd, Kenneth Daniel Krabacher
  • Patent number: 6272762
    Abstract: An ovality measurement tool for measurement of ovality of a circumferentially deformable cylindrical element having a cylindrical element support, a sensing element for traversing the circumference of the cylindrical element, which sensing element is movable radially with respect to the cylindrical element, and a readout device for reading the amount of movement of the sensing element as it traverses the circumference of the cylindrical element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 15, 1999
    Date of Patent: August 14, 2001
    Assignee: Gas Research Institute
    Inventors: John Arthur Kinast, William Fredrick Rush, Victor Tamosaitis
  • Patent number: 6092411
    Abstract: There is provided a reference gage that has first and second reference planes parallel to one another and perpendicular to a rotational axis of the reference gage, and a distance between the reference planes is already known as a reference distance. To calibrate the measuring head, the measuring direction of the measuring head is set parallel to the rotational axis of the measuring head or the table on which the reference gage is placed, and a reference value of the reference distance on the reference gage is entered. Then, the reference distance is measured by the measuring head to acquire measured data, and a measured value of the reference distance is calculated from the measured data. The measuring head is calibrated so that the measured value accords with the reference value. The time required for calibrating the measuring head is thus reduced.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 28, 1998
    Date of Patent: July 25, 2000
    Assignee: Tokyo Seimitsu Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Yasuyuki Tokoi
  • Patent number: 6088924
    Abstract: A device for measuring and/or checking the diameter of a cylindrical part (2) moving orbitally about an axis (3) during a grinding process. The device comprises a measuring head (7) coupled to a holder (18, 22) which is provided with a member (26) for engaging the circumference of the part (2), and is movably mounted in a direction parallel to itself on a frame (31) so that it can follow the orbital motion of the part (2). Grinding is performed by means of a tool (1) moving transversely to said axis (3), and the frame (31) is moved transversely to said axis and synchronised with the motion of the tool (1).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 31, 1998
    Date of Patent: July 18, 2000
    Assignee: Etamic SA
    Inventor: Xavier Esteve
  • Patent number: 6085429
    Abstract: A test apparatus and method utilize a proximity sensor to detect the deflection of an optical disc spindle as the spindle is supported on a rotatable spindle support. The proximity sensor is disposed at a fixed location relative to the rotational axis of the rotatable spindle support, and is configured to output a variable proximity signal associated with the distance between the proximity sensor and the optical disc spindle. The output of the proximity sensor is fed to an electrical circuit to determine whether the deflection is outside of an acceptable range during rotation of the rotatable spindle support. If so, an indication is provided to an operator to permit the operator to repair or discard the spindle, as appropriate. In addition, a length detector is used to provide an indication of the length of the optical disc spindle so that the electrical circuit can adjust the acceptable deflection range for different lengths of optical disc spindles.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 20, 1998
    Date of Patent: July 11, 2000
    Assignees: Sony Corporation, Digital Audio Disc Corporation
    Inventors: Joseph Dale Cresgy, Edward Lee Proffitt
  • Patent number: 6085430
    Abstract: An apparatus and a method for measuring eccentricity between two circular members which are attached together is provided. The apparatus includes a vernier measuring device of a main scale and a vernier scale, and a mounting block having a V-shaped notch in a top surface for receiving a circular member and for mounting the main scale of the vernier measuring device securely to the block. The novel apparatus and method can be used to not only making direct measurement of the eccentricity between the two centers, they may also be used to read directly the number of pulses required for making adjustment to a robot arm when the divisions on the main scale and the vernier scale are specifically designed for such purpose.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 4, 1998
    Date of Patent: July 11, 2000
    Assignee: Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company, Ltd.
    Inventors: Yung-Dar Chen, Jung-Hao Hsiue, Shiuh-Sheng Chang
  • Patent number: 5888150
    Abstract: A golf ball having a would center and a dimple less outer surface having a constant diameter of 1.75 inches and a smoothness which is determined by rolling a golf ball between upper and lower parallel glass plates supported by four support legs and monitoring any changes in an amount of forced needed to roll the ball between the plates for detecting the presence of an imperfection upon the surface of the ball or an out-of-round ball.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 19, 1997
    Date of Patent: March 30, 1999
    Inventor: James A. Young
  • Patent number: 5774997
    Abstract: An out-of-round indicator for golf balls utilizes an indicator module inserted into a golf ball sleeve or carton, with the module including a cup at its base into which the golf ball is dropped. The indicator includes a cantilevered arm extending from the base and spring loaded towards the surface of the golf ball, such that a surface of the arm contacts the surface of the golf ball, with the distal portion of the arm having a laterally extending tab or flag with differently colored spaced vertical markings. In one embodiment, a stationary vertically-extending support rises from a side of the base and has a vertical slot at its distal end overlying the tab, such that when the golf ball is rotated in the cup, the marking which appears through the slot indicates the out-of-roundness of the ball as the ball is rotated. The golf ball sleeve or box is provided with an aperture to permit rotation of the golf ball in the cup when the module is in the sleeve and when the golf ball is dropped into the cup.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 2, 1997
    Date of Patent: July 7, 1998
    Assignee: Performance Dynamics LLC
    Inventor: Paul J. Gruen, Jr.
  • Patent number: 5761821
    Abstract: A gauge for determining the diameter of an eccentric cylindrical workpiece part during grinding. The measurement is effected by a pair of fingers adapted to engage diametrically opposite regions of the part. The fingers are carried at the ends of a pair of elongate probes mounted on the grinding wheel table so as to move therewith, thereby to follow the eccentric movement of the said part in a horizontal plane, as the workpiece rotates. The probes are slidable in a generally vertical sense relative to the grinding wheel table and relative to each other. The two probes are also slidable as a unitary assembly relative to the table, in a direction towards the workpiece, with the two fingers positioned above and below the upper and lower extremities of the eccentric movement of the workpiece part, to allow subsequent gauging thereof by closure of the two fingers onto the part to make contact therewith.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 29, 1996
    Date of Patent: June 9, 1998
    Assignee: Western Atlas U.K. Limited
    Inventor: Michael Laycock
  • Patent number: 5640778
    Abstract: An apparatus for measuring the curvature radii of spherical and cylindrical surfaces is provided. The apparatus comprises a base, a probe and four ball rings of the same size, wherein the four ball rings are provided on the base and arranged into a square having a side length C. The probe is upward and downward movably mounted on the top surface of the base at the center of the square. There is also provided a method for measuring the curvature radii of spherical and cylindrical surfaces, wherein a ball-ring-distance is equal to C for the cylindrical surface or is equal to .sqroot.2C for the spherical surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 15, 1995
    Date of Patent: June 24, 1997
    Assignee: National Science Council
    Inventors: Shin-Gwo Shiue, Tai-San Liao, Sheng-Tsang Chang, Ching-Fen Kao
  • Patent number: 5539992
    Abstract: An apparatus for measuring and correcting the straightness of a hollow vacuum nozzle for semiconductor assembly equipment comprises a collet which can rotate over 360.degree. and holds the nozzle. An indicator, such as a dial indicator, has a tip which conformally and continuously engages the nozzle so that as the collet and nozzle are rotated the indicator tip rides on the nozzle. Any horizontal movement of a bent nozzle is shown on the indicator. The bend in the nozzle can then be repaired and rechecked while the nozzle is installed in the collet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 12, 1995
    Date of Patent: July 30, 1996
    Assignee: Micron Electronics, Inc
    Inventor: Glenn P. Woodhouse
  • Patent number: 5433013
    Abstract: An apparatus for measuring and correcting the straightness of a hollow vacuum nozzle for semiconductor assembly equipment comprises a collet which can rotate over 360.degree. and holds the nozzle. An indicator, such as a dial indicator, has a tip which conformally and continuously engages the nozzle so that as the collet and nozzle are rotated the indicator tip rides on the nozzle. Any horizontal movement of a bent nozzle is shown on the indicator. The bend in the nozzle can then be repaired and rechecked while the nozzle is installed in the collet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 24, 1993
    Date of Patent: July 18, 1995
    Assignee: Micron Custom Manufacturing Services, Inc.
    Inventor: Glenn P. Woodhouse
  • Patent number: 5419056
    Abstract: A cylindrical portion of the tool or workpiece is rotatably supported by two pairs of spherical rollers rotatably carried by two pairs of holders mounted on first and second upright supports secured to a bed. The second support is adjustable to change the spacing between the supports. The holders have screw threads for adjusting the spacing between the rollers. Alternatively, separate feed screws are provided for the holders. A drive belt is looped around the workpiece and around a drive pulley rotatably mounted on a movable carriage biased by a spring to tighten the belt. A knob is provided to rotate the drive pulley. The flights of the belt are pinched toward each other by a pair of guide pulleys and by a pair of rollers adjacent the drive pulley, whereby the upper loop of the belt is kept open and close to the location of the workpiece when it is removed. The carriage may be latched in a belt-loosening position by a swingable latching arm.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 29, 1993
    Date of Patent: May 30, 1995
    Assignee: Thomas E. Breitenstein
    Inventor: Charles T. Breitenstein
  • Patent number: 5359784
    Abstract: A centering system in a roundness measuring instrument comprises a computing section, a detecting device and a programming device. The computing section seeks an average circle of an article to be measured, a value of eccentricity and a direction of an angle of eccentricity in response to a displacement signal of a forward end element, sets an output signal of a detector so that the position of the detector at the time the measurement element is present on the arc of the average circle becomes zero, and further, calculates only a displacement value of the measurement element in a direction of an X-axis or a Y-axis to the value of eccentricity. The detecting device detects an angle of rotation of an X-Y table in a direction of an angle of eccentricity of the X-axis or the Y-axis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 11, 1993
    Date of Patent: November 1, 1994
    Assignee: Tokyo Seimitsu Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Miyoshi Tomida, Asao Matsumoto
  • Patent number: 5351410
    Abstract: The invention relates to an inspection device for inspecting the dimensions of an object, the device being of the type comprising a support-forming portion together with an elastically deformable system having two measurement arms and an element connected to the arms in such a manner as to be displaced in an axial direction for co-operating with an associated displacement sensor. According to the invention, the deformable system is in the form of a one-piece element that is generally W-shaped, with two hinged measurement arms connected together by two link arms, together with an axially movable central arm; the one-piece element is essentially flat, and it deforms in its own plane when contactors provided at the ends of the hinged measurement arms are moved apart or towards each other. The device is particularly applicable to inspecting inside or outside diameters of mechanical workpieces.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 4, 1993
    Date of Patent: October 4, 1994
    Assignee: Societe Industrielle de Liaisons Electriques-Silec
    Inventor: Lucien Hainneville