Abstract: A spindle device for driving a production machine includes a first sensor for detecting a first physical variable of the spindle device, and at least a second sensor for detecting a second physical variable of the spindle device. In this way, it becomes possible to determine the oscillation amplitude of the rotor of a spindle and a temperature profile of a rolling bearing. Monitoring maximum values allows identification of a crash event, whereas the temperature profile allows conclusions as to a need for maintenance. Signal evaluation can take place centrally at the spindle manufacturer's end, thereby allowing needed maintenance works to be planned long term and effectively.

Abstract: A monitoring system includes a porthole in a tank or conduit that includes threads on an end thereof. A piece of processing equipment is mounted within the porthole by a threaded coupling collar. The threads of the coupling collar engage the threads of the porthole. A sensor collar is mounted in fixed relationship to the porthole at a predetermined distance from an end of the porthole and includes a status sensor mounted thereto. The status sensor detects a position of the threaded coupling collar to ensure that the piece of processing equipment is properly mounted in the porthole.

Abstract: In a method of communicating data from a mobile floor cleaner to a remote receiver a data communication is initiated from a communicator of the mobile floor cleaner to the remote receiver and data is communicated to the remote receiver with the communicator.

Abstract: The inventive device functions to warn a user of the undesirable condition of an appliance or other equipment. An “undesirable condition” may be an automatic garage door that is left open, a toaster oven or electric heater that is left on, an air conditioner that is left on, a security alarm that is left de-activated, or any other condition which is deemed undesirable and would benefit from a warning device which allows a user to return to the location of the appliance and remedy its undesirable condition. The inventive device is comprised of a base unit system that is in monitoring contact with the appliance of interest through at least one sensor, and a remote receiving unit system which travels in the user's automobile. The base unit communicates status information regarding the appliance to the receiving unit and the receiving unit can determine whether the status of the appliance is undesirable.

Abstract: An enclosure constructed around an area at which hot work is to be performed at a facility containing flammable or combustible material. Hot work includes such things as welding, torch cutting, grinding and the like. Facilities include petroleum drilling and production platforms, oil tankers, petroleum and chemical plants, and petroleum tank farms. Gas detection monitoring apparatuses are used with the enclosure which will automatically simultaneously shutdown one or more enclosures.

Abstract: An improved pump, reservoir and reservoir piston are provided for controlled delivery of fluids. A motor is operably coupled to a drive member, such as a drive screw, which is adapted to advance a plunger slide in response to operation of the motor. The plunger slide is removably coupled to the piston. A method, system, and an article of manufacture for automatically detecting a force sensor failure in a medication infusion pump is provided. The electrical current to an infusion pump is measured. Based on the current measurements, the infusion pump detects when the plunger slide is seated in the reservoir, and detects a problem with the force sensor when the force sensor independently fails to register a value indicating that the plunger slide is seated in the reservoir.

Abstract: An apparatus adjusting system is provided in which, without setting a terminal apparatus for each apparatus, or providing a connection connector for each apparatus for connecting with a single common terminal apparatus in a switching manner, a mechanism part of an apparatus can be adjusted form a terminal apparatus. An apparatus according to the present invention, includes an adjustable mechanism part (50) and a control part (30) adjusting the mechanism part and a radio communication part (40) establishing radio communication connection with a terminal (2) and carrying out data transmission/reception with the terminal, and the control part includes a data producing part (31) which produces data transmit to the terminal; an analyzing part which analyzes data received from the terminal; and an adjustment part (35) which adjusts the mechanism part based on the data analyzed.

Abstract: A method and a device for determining if or where a person (10) is located within an area (5), wherein a foot transceiver (8) connected to the person (10) activates one or several identifiable transponders (6) placed in the area (5), after which the activated transponder(s) (6) emit an identifiable signal, preferably via the foot transceiver (8), onto a main receiver/transmitter (14), each of the received signals then being referred to a known position.

Abstract: An electrical appliance includes at least one sensor for recording at least one operating parameter and at least one actuator for influencing at least one operating parameter of the electrical appliance. The at least one sensor and the at least one actuator are conductively coupled with a central computing and control unit for controlling the electrical appliance. The central computing and control unit is coupled with a communication unit that allows a wireless communication with an external remote station. The communication unit is, preferably, a transponder for wireless radio communication.

Abstract: The brush abrasion detector is unnecessary to provide any detecting element for detecting limit of abrasion of a brush in the proximity of the brush. The brush abrasion detector includes: a brush located being slidably press-fitted to a slip ring provided at an end portion of a field winding of a generator, and supplying an excitation current from a battery to the field winding; a current detection circuit for detecting a current value flowing through the field winding via the brush; an output voltage detection circuit for detecting an output voltage value from the generator; and a brush abrasion determination circuit for determining abrasion state of the brush based on a current value detected by the current detection circuit or an output voltage value detected by the output voltage detection circuit.

Abstract: A data recorder for use as a hunting detector includes a piezofilm accelerometer. A bandpass filter tuned to the approximate frequency of a hunting railcar couples the output of the accelerometer to a hold circuit. A controller, operating primarily in a low power consumption “sleep” mode, awakens periodically to check the hold circuit. If the contents of the hold circuit is greater than a predetermined value, a counter is incremented. When the counter exceeds a preset limit, then a flasher on the exterior of the data recorder is enabled.

Abstract: A method for monitoring a fan comprises measuring power usage of the fan, determining a derivative of the measured fan power usage, tracking the derivative over time, and predicting impending fan failure based on the tracked fan power usage derivative.

Abstract: A device for positioning a workpiece for machining has a bench, which is mounted movably at a base and to which the workpiece (14) can be fastened. A detection device (15, 16, 17, 18) is arranged at the bench (12) for detecting a state of a machining process of the workpiece (14) and for generating detected information depending thereon. An energy transmission device (38, 42, 49, 50), for transmitting electric energy to the components (16, 17, 18, 21), is arranged on the bench (12). An information transmission device (39, 40, 43, 44, 59, 60) for transmitting detected information of the detection device (15, 16, 17, 18) to a control (63) is associated with the base (11). The energy transmission device (38, 42, 49, 50) transmits the energy and the information transmission device (39, 40, 43, 44, 59, 60) transmits the information inductively and/or capacitively via the same air gap.

Abstract: System and method for monitoring a working status of a swimming pool cover assembly. The system comprises a pool cover assembly operably connected to an alarm apparatus; both may be operably connected to a plurality of sensors capable of detecting a working status of the pool cover assembly and sending a signal to the alarm apparatus. The alarm apparatus continually produces at least one humanly perceptible indication corresponding to a working status of the pool cover assembly. The alarm apparatus includes at least one alarm-producing device, such as an audio or visual device, or combination of the two, a receiver operably connected to the plurality of sensors for receiving the signals, a processor operably coupled with the receiver for processing and recognizing the received signals, and software operably coupled with the processor enabling the alarm-producing device to produce the humanly perceptible indication corresponding to the recognized signal.

Abstract: A function monitor (10) broadly comprises a detector (14) to sense a condition, a transmitter (18) to monitor the detector (14), and a base unit (20) to receive a status signal from the transmitter (18) indicative of the detector's status. The detector (14) may comprise a pressure switch, a position switch, a level switch, a temperature switch, and/or virtually any device that may be used to electrically monitor the condition. The transmitter (18) preferably receives power through a wireless connection to the base unit (20). The base unit (20) preferably receives the status signal from the pallet transmitter (18) over the wireless connection and actuates a output (30) according to the status signal. The output (30) that may be used to warn an operator of the condition, or take other necessary actions, such as preventing a pump from running.

Abstract: An alarm system that indicates to an operator the status of locking pins of a vehicle sliding axle assembly. The alarm system includes an alarm valve coupled to the locking pins and in fluid communication with an alarm. When the pins are unlocked from a vehicle component, the alarm valve is configured in an alarm mode to indicate the unsecured condition of the assembly. In this mode, air is diverted from the vehicle brakes to sound the alarm, thereby informing an operator that the pins are improperly engaged. In one embodiment, the alarm valve is in communication with or includes a pressure relief valve, which diverts a sufficient amount of air from the vehicle brakes so that the brakes cannot be released. When the pins are properly locked to secure the slider axle assembly, the alarm valve does not divert air from the brakes to sound the alarm.

Abstract: A display system and method for a work machine is provided. A terrain map indicative of a current surface configuration for a geographic location is displayed. The display of the terrain map includes a plurality of elevation segments. Each of the plurality of elevation segments has an actual surface elevation value for a discrete area of the geographic location. A position of a ground engaging tool operatively connected to the work machine is monitored. A current elevation of the ground engaging tool is identified. The display of the elevation segment corresponding to the location of the ground engaging tool is updated when the current elevation of the ground engaging tool indicates a change in the actual surface elevation value for the elevation segment corresponding to the location of the ground engaging tool.

Abstract: A preferred embodiment alarm device for use with fall protection equipment includes an elongating member, an alarm, an activation member, and a connecting member. The elongating member has a first end and a second end and extends in length as the first end and the second end are pulled in different directions. The alarm is operatively connected to the first end of the elongating member, and the activation member is releasably connected to the alarm. The activation member activates the alarm when disconnected from the alarm. The connecting member interconnects the activation member and the second end of the elongating member, and the activation member becomes disconnected from the alarm when the elongating member is extended in length as the first end and the second end are pulled in different directions thereby activating the alarm when the elongating member is extended.

Abstract: Woodworking machines are disclosed having movable cutting tools for cutting workpieces in a cutting region. The machines include a detection system adapted to detect one or more dangerous conditions between a person and the cutting tools, and a reaction system associated with the detection system. The reaction system is configured to retract the cutting tool at least partially away from the cutting region upon detection of a dangerous condition by the detection system.

Abstract: A fault tolerant operating method for a cotton compactor of a cotton module builder or packager of a cotton harvesting machine, which serves as an alternative to shutting down the compacting process or erratic operation thereof, in the event of indication of a fault or failure condition involving one or more sensors associated with the compactor, or a conductive path in connection with a sensor, all generally identified as a fault or failure condition.

Abstract: One or more enclosures constructed about one or more objects at which hot work is to be performed at a facility containing flammable and/or combustible material. Hot work includes such things as welding, torch cutting, grinding and the like that produces heat, spark, slag or flame. The one or more enclosures are capable of being simultaneously and independently controlled and monitored by a single control and monitoring system.

Abstract: The power tool is equipped with a radar for transmitting radio waves towards an area in a vicinity of a rotating tool and for receiving reflected radio waves reflected from a radio wave reflector existing within the area. From the reflected radio waves received by the radar, a distance between the radio wave reflector and the radar, and a speed of change of that distance are calculated. When the calculated distance and speed fulfill a first criterion, a first brake for applying gentle braking to the rotating tool is activated. When the radio wave reflector further approaches to the rotating tool and the calculated distance and speed fulfill a second criterion, a second brake for applying rapid braking to the rotating tool is activated. Distance in the first criterion and the increase as speed increases, and distance corresponding to a certain speed in the first criterion is longer than distance corresponding to the same speed in the second criterion.

Abstract: A sensor array for non-destructively monitoring a structure to detect a critical structural event. The sensor array includes a plurality of discrete sensor nodes, each of the discrete sensor nodes producing an electrical signal in response to a structural event. A signal adder is electrically connected to the plurality of discrete sensor nodes for receiving and combining the electrical signal from each of the discrete sensor nodes to form a single sensor array output signal. A signal processing module then receives and processes the single sensor output signal. In the preferred embodiment, the signal processing module uses the time interval between the electrical signals from each of the discrete sensor nodes formed into a single sensor array output signal to calculate the location of the critical structural event. Also, in the preferred embodiment, a data collection system is located downstream of the sensor processing module.

Abstract: A tactile generator comprises an eccentric mass that imparts a vibration as it rotates about a rotational axis. The mass is radially movable with respect to the rotational axis such that the distance between the mass and the axis is variable. Varying the distance of the mass from the axis varies the amount of vibration generated when the mass is rotated. The amount of vibration may be controlled responsive to a detected level of ambient noise.

Abstract: An anti-collision protection system for machines that operate in a raw material stockpile yard is disclosed. The machines are moveable in the yard in defined paths, with each machine including a material delivery and/or material recovery boom that can be rotated about a vertical axis. The system includes a means for defining an envelope around each boom (5) that moves with the boom, with each envelope forming a boundary of an exclusion zone for the boom. The system also includes a means for detecting an intersection of the boundaries of the exclusion zones and a means responsive to a detected boundary intersection to prevent collision of the machines.

Abstract: A system that monitors at least a household electric user (HA1–HA4), in particular a household appliance, includes a monitoring device (MSA) that is connected between a source of electric energy (OUT) and the electric user, the monitoring device (MSA) including a metering means for detecting one or more electric quantities being associated with the operation of said user (HA1–HA4), and further including a control means that is programmed for (i) comparing the electric quantity or quantities being measured through the metering means with reference values of said electric quantity or quantities which are stored within the control means; (ii) generating, in function of the comparison, information being representative of the current operating status or phase of operation of the electric user (HA1–HA4); and (iii) allowing for the reading or transmission of the information to the outside of said device (MSA).

Abstract: A communication device is provided which is intended to aid farm workers in the coordination of harvesting and hauling vehicles in the field during crop harvesting operations. This communication device consists of a transmitter and receiver which are mounted at convenient points within the harvesting vehicle and produce hauling truck respectively. The receiver contains four lighted directional arrows representing directional changes of forwards, backwards, left, and right. The transmitter contains four buttons that correspond in location and function to the directional arrows on the receiver. Thus, when a button on the transmitter is depressed by the harvester operator, the corresponding directional arrow on the receiver will light up signaling the truck driver to make a change in the position of his truck relative to the harvester.

Abstract: A system and method for displaying information related to the status of at least one machine of a plurality of machines. This system includes a data module coupled to each of the plurality of machines. The data module is adapted to collect and store information related to the corresponding machine. A data link is coupled to the data module. A display module is coupled through the data link. The data link is adapted to transmit data information between the data module coupled to each machine and the display module. The display module is adapted to display information relating from only a subset of the plurality of machines. The subset is selected from the plurality of machines as a function of machine parameters input by a user.

Abstract: An apparatus and a method of controlling a water supply of a washing machine, which naturally discharges the water within a detergent dissolving unit when the water level within the detergent dissolving unit is more than a designated water level so as to prevent the water within the detergent dissolving unit from overflowing, and warns of a clogging error in a water supply path when a number of times the water level within the detergent dissolving unit is more than a designated water level, is more than a designated number of times. Whether or not the water supply is provided is determined according to the number of times the water level within the detergent dissolving unit is more than the designated water level sensed by the water level sensor, thereby controlling a water supply action so as to stop the water supply only under abnormal conditions from supplying the water to a water tank, and improving a reliability of the apparatus.

Abstract: A forklift has a driving wheel capable of being steered by 360°, a steering angle detecting section for detecting a steering angle of the driving wheel, a rotary direction detecting section for detecting a rotary direction of the driving wheel, a running direction judging section for judging a running direction of the forklift based on the steering angle of the driving wheel and the rotary direction of the driving wheel. The forklift further includes a display, advancing chime and reversing buzzer for announcing the result of judgment obtained by the running direction judging section.

Abstract: An emergency shutoff system for power machinery includes a control device housing a transmitter circuit, a receiver circuit, and a processor. A wireless device is carried by a user and configured to transmit information to the control device to cause the processor to shut down operation of the power machinery. The control device is configured to transmit a distress signal to a third party located remote from the power machinery, and provide an indication to attract attention of others. Transmission of the distress signal is initiated after receiving the control signals to shut down the power machinery. Selective operation of a single emergency switch provided on the wireless device is configured to cause the control device to operate in a plurality of different modes including disabling operation of the power machinery and preventing a third party from inadvertently initiating operation of the power machinery from a remote location.

Abstract: The invention relates to a mobile working machine, particularly a mobile concrete pump, comprising a device for monitoring the stability thereof when in operation. The working machine comprises a chassis (10), which contains a supporting structure with two front and two rear support struts (20). The support struts can be extended out of a transporting position and into at least one supporting position and each can be supported on a surface (28) by a telescopic supporting jack or foot (26). The working machine additionally comprises a working boom (14), which can be extended out of a transporting position and into working positions that project beyond the chassis, which can rotate about a vertical axis that is fixed with regard to the chassis, and which is preferably provided in the form of a concrete distributing boom. Measuring devices for determining the respective supporting load are arranged in the area of the supporting foot and their output signals are sent to a stability monitoring device.

Abstract: A monitoring apparatus for monitoring one or more manufacturing machines having a plurality of component tools and engaged in repetitive machining of a part is provided. An input device detects occurrence of a machine cycle. A counter stores the number of detected machine cycles as a count value. A machine speed processor estimates a temporal rate at which the machine cycles occur. A data storage device stores a maintenance schedule indicating the number of machine cycles between recommended replacements for each tool. A tools processor estimates a remaining operating time for each tool before scheduled replacement. A machine viability processor estimates a remaining operating time for the machine before schedule replacement of each of the component tools. A display device displays the operating time for the machine before scheduled replacement of each of the component tools.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a method of detecting a malfunction during a die clamping step in an injection molding machine. A reference pattern is taken which shows a relation between a die clamping force and a position of a movable platen when die clamping is normally carried out. One or more monitoring sections are set in advance with respect to that position on the basis of the reference pattern and an allowable limit value of a die clamping force in the respective monitoring sections is also set in advance in a form of a linear function of the position. The die clamping force is monitored in the respective monitoring section during a respective die clamping step and, when its value exceeds the allowable limit value, it is decided that a malfunction occurs and an alarm is issued.

Abstract: A remotely controllable shutoff system is operable to temporarily disable a machine, for the safety of persons and property close to the machine. The system includes a remote transmitter assembly, equipped with a shutoff actuator, and a receiver unit also including a manual reset mechanism. When a shutoff signal is generated by the transmitter, the receiver unit is capable of immobilizing the machine or a designated section thereof. Operation of the machine may be resumed only after resetting at least one manual reset mechanism on the remote transmitter and/or the receiving unit.

Abstract: A security system of a construction machine of the present invention has a construction machine, a base station and a communication device. The construction machine comprises a data sending and receiving portion for sending first information, a storage portion for storing received information, and a control portion for controlling an operation of the construction machine. The base station receives the first information from the data sending and receiving portion of the construction machine and sends second information to the construction machine and manages the construction machine. It is configured so that the communication device is connected to the base station through a communication network and can send third information to the construction machine through the base station.

Abstract: The Vertical Transportation-Maintenance Management System (VTMMS) invention described herein is directed towards an automated system and method for monitoring, management, and maintenance of transportation equipment, including but not limited to escalators, elevators, moving walkways, baggage carousels, revolving doors, and automated doors. The system and method is also adaptable to heating, ventilation, and air conditioning units and other building equipment. The system and method collects data from the monitored equipment and preserves data that is related to equipment alarms, faults, failures, and maintenance requirements and activities as determined by monitoring software.

Abstract: A detection circuit that includes a first relay coupled to a solenoid valve for sensing an operation state of the solenoid valve, a second relay coupled to the first relay adapted for activating in response to activation of the first relay, a sensor for detecting an operation state of a device, a third relay coupled to the sensor, wherein the senor is adapted for providing a signal to activate the third relay, and wherein the second relay is deactivated in response to the activation of the third relay, and a fourth relay coupled to the first and second relays, wherein the fourth relay is activated when the first relay is deactivated and the second relay is activated.

Abstract: The present invention provides a method for displaying an operation status of a construction machine by sensing operating information of the construction machine by means of a coolant water sensor and the like, sending the operating information to a control computer while the control computer receives the operating information which has been sent from the construction machine, determines whether the construction machine is in operation or not based on the received operating information, and displays the result of judgment on a monitor screen, so that the current operation status of the construction machine can be known easily.

Abstract: A system for real-time signal processing for vehicle monitoring, including a first device disposed in a tire of a vehicle and producing a signal that is a function of a tire contact time period, during which a point at the tire circumference stays in contact with the ground, and a second device operative to repetitively perform a first task of processing the signal to calculate the tire contact time period at a first predetermined rate, and to repetitively perform a second task of calculating a tire load based at least in part upon the calculated tire contact time period at a second predetermined rate, wherein said second predetermined rate is less than said first predetermined rate.

Abstract: An image-forming system is composed of an image-forming apparatus body, a folding device, a bookbinding device, and a finisher, which are connected to the image-forming apparatus body. In the image-forming system, in order to support maintenance, an available period of time for maintenance for each processing module (a unit or a device sectionalized in a processing functional unit) is calculated based on contents of a job presently in execution and contents of registered jobs so as to display the available period of time for maintenance of the calculated processing module on an operation display.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for enhancing the safety in a work zone surrounding operating equipment including identifying workers within said work zone and warning unauthorized workers within said work zone.

Abstract: Techniques for qualifying and monitoring bearing performance and condition in a rotary servo systems (e.g., galvanometer scanner) are disclosed. A position error signal is analyzed for signal anomalies that can signify bearing damage. A DC offset ramp is applied to the position error signal to test whether the anomaly is angular position dependent. The anomaly is associated with the corresponding command signal value and range of values to calculate the angular position and range of the apparent bearing damage. The amplitude of the anomaly is measured and associated with a relative degree of bearing damage.

Abstract: In a method for the wireless transmission of a control command from a transmitting element to a measuring probe using electromagnetic signals, the control command includes at least one bit sequence which is made up of high bits and at least one low bit. The high bits are produced by the enveloping curve of a plurality of electromagnetic signals which recur with a carrier frequency. Within one bit sequence, at least one low bit is transmitted at least once between two high bits.

Abstract: A system for protecting the clutch of a vehicle from a harmful operating state. Included in the clutch protection system are means for monitoring the operating state of the clutch, along with means for estimating the amount of energy being dissipated by the clutch. A control unit compares the estimated amount of energy dissipated by the clutch to one or more predetermined threshold energy levels. One or more actions designed to reduce the amount of energy dissipated by the clutch are initiated when the estimated amount of energy dissipated by the clutch exceeds the one or more predetermined thresholds.

Abstract: A reach type forklift truck includes a rotation sensor interposed between a load wheel and a load wheel shaft on which the load wheel is provided. A signal line for transmitting a detected signal of the rotation sensor is inserted in a guide groove formed in the load wheel shaft that extends along an axial direction thereof. The signal line is led out from a reach rail side of the load wheel.

Abstract: An anti-theft system for construction machines, comprising a memory which stores, as machine-side identification information, first identification information allocated construction machine by construction machine and second identification information allocated in common to plural construction machines, a first collating medium having the same identification information as the first identification information, a second collating medium having the same identification information as the second identification information, a collator which collates the identification information of the first or the second collating medium with the machine-side identification information, and an operation controller which cancels the inhibit of operation of the construction machine concerned when there is obtained a coincident collation result by the collator. With this anti-theft system, an owner of construction machines can manage the construction machines by only one type of a collating medium while preventing theft.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to a method of monitoring operation data for quality control with a little possibility that a nondefective product is mistakenly determined as a defective product even if the operation data fluctuates in a large waviness curve. Every time an operation data piece for quality control is obtained, a moving average of the predetermined number of data pieces lately obtained is calculated. When the deviation of a data piece from the moving average exceeds the tolerance limit, an alarm is generated. By employing the method of the present invention for monitoring operation data such as charging time, injection time and the amount of cushion in an injection-molding machine, the accuracy of determination as to a defective or nondefective can be improved.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a method of detecting a malfunction during a die clamping step in an injection molding machine. A reference pattern is taken which shows a relation between a die clamping force and a position of a movable platen when die clamping is normally carried out. One or more monitoring sections are set in advance with respect to that position on the basis of the reference pattern and an allowable limit value of a die clamping force in the respective monitoring sections is also set in advance in a form of a linear function of the position. The die clamping force is monitored in the respective monitoring section during a respective die clamping step and, when its value exceeds the allowable limit value, it is decided that a malfunction occurs and an alarm is issued.

Abstract: The instantaneous power consumption of an appliance is used to determine the status of the appliance, from which further actions may be taken. This invention is premised on the observation that most appliances have a characteristic power consumption pattern that can be used to determine the state of operation of the appliance. An electric coffee pot, for example, consumes high power substantially continuously during the brewing state, then reduces its power level, or power duration, or both, while keeping the pot warm, then terminates its power consumption when it is turned off. In like manner, the power consumption patterns of other appliances, such as toasters, washing machines, dryers, and so on may also be used to determine the state of each appliance. The communicated state may be used by a home-automation system to effect a variety of actions, including notifying the user, terminating the available power to the appliance, initiating an action by another appliance, and so on.