Abstract: A system and method for testing at least one joint in a linkage includes a platform system, a torque system, an articulation assembly and a fault detection system. The platform system receives a first shaft connected to a first joint in the linkage and the torque system applies torque to the first joint without substantially rotating the first shaft or joint, a second shaft connected to a second joint in the linkage or the second joint. The articulation assembly receives the second shaft and moves the second joint in a substantially circular path without substantially rotating the first shaft or joint and the second shaft or joint. The fault detection system determines the condition of the linkage based upon detected signals emitted from the linkage while the first joint is torqued and the second joint is moved.

Abstract: A control device for controlling operating parameters and control functions for the operation of a laboratory centrifuge. The control device has a panel for displaying a visual representation of at least a part of the operating parameters and control functions such as speed of rotation, acceleration temperature, etc. A control switch sets the operating parameters and control functions, this switch being capable of at least two independent movements—a first movement including a rotation about an axis, the second one a displacement along the axis. One of these switch movement, e.g., rotation, provides for the selection and change in setting of one of the operating parameters and control functions, and another of the switch movement, e.g., displacement, provides for acceptance of the selection and acceptance of the setting.

Abstract: A load indicator for an electric motor, comprising a first means (II, IU, CPU) for repeated determination of the motor load, a second means (CPU) for comparing the current motor load, as determined by the first means, with a preset load limit, and a third means (CPU), PP) for indicating that the current motor load exceeds the load limit. Moreover, a meant (T, CPU) is arranged to initiate a presetting of the load limit. This means is adapted to be actuated, when the motor runs in normal operation, for presetting of the load limit as the current motor load changed by a predetermined deviation value stored in the load indicator.

Abstract: An appliance capable of performing a task initiated by a human operator, including an input device for receiving operator contact information for sending a message to the human operator; a computer for processing the operator contact information; and a transmitter that uses the operator contact information to communicate a message from the appliance to the human operator.

Abstract: A maintenance service system for home electric appliances is disclosed which comprises a home electric appliance, a portable terminal which can communicate with the home electric appliance and an information providing server which can communicate with the portable terminal.

Abstract: A freight-loading system in a cargo hold of an aircraft is provided that offers enhanced operating safety. The freight-loading system comprises a plurality of power drive units (PDUs), which can be actuated by control signals in such a way that items of freight can be maneuvered into or out of the cargo hold as well as within it. The power drive units (PDUs) are connected by control leads to control panels for actuation by personnel. A control maintenance computer (CMC) is provided and connected to the power drive units (PDUs) and the control panels, and is so designed that status information from the power drive units (PDUs) and the control panels can be read out, and that the power drive units (PDUs) and/or the control panels are controllable by the control maintenance computer (CMC).

Abstract: This invention relates to self-propelled, mobile input/output bins (MIOBs). Such structures of this type, generally, allow several MIOBs to communicate with one another and a data center. For example, the MIOBs can communicate with a data center if one of the MIOBs experiences a breakdown so that MIOB can be sent to assist with the breakdown.

Abstract: A switch assembly (1) comprises a push-button section (52) and a push-button body (53) as an operation transmitting member, an LED box (54) and a contact-making contact (56) as a direct functioning member, and a communication-function incorporating contact (communications contact) (55) as an information input/output functioning member, as permitting these components to be connected with each other. Therefore, the switch assembly can respond to an operation given to the push-button body (52) by causing the contact-making contact (56) to provide an output for switching between a conductive state and a non-conductive state and by causing the communications contact (55) to output an information signal to a network.

Abstract: An optical pulse signal from a machine tool measuring probe is received by a photodiode (28). To reduce interference from xenon strobe beacons, fluorescent lights etc., the pulse signal is processed by an AGC amplifier (30) with low frequency signal cancellation, and the pulses are then detected by a threshold detector (32). The threshold of this detector (32) is variable by a circuit (50), in accordance with the overall amplitude of the signal pulses, in order to provide the best rejection of interference pulses.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for wireless transmission of data through a communications channel between at least two local data sensors (for example automotive diagnostic data sensors or NVH sensors), which may include a primary data-processing function, and data-processing function (for example a PC) to receive data therefrom. The system provides for asymmetrical division of the communications channel on a frequency or time-division or packet-switching basis so that the corresponding asymmetrical data transmission requirement of the local data sensors are matched to the capacity of their respective sub-channels whereby a single channel is capable of transmitting all the required data. A particularly practical application is to noise vibration harshness analysis of wireless-transmitted data from three-dimensionally spaced NVH sensors enabling spacial pinpointing of vibration sources in automotive warranty analysis studies.

Abstract: An apparatus for determining an approximate mass of a fabric load in an automatic clothes dryer wherein the dryer utilizes a motor including a centrifugal switch which closes upon the motor achieving a predetermined speed at a start of the motor. A timer device is provided which is capable of timing intervals of time measured in milliseconds. A current detecting mechanism is arranged in a current supply line for the dryer motor and is arranged to start the timer upon detecting a start of the dryer motor. A voltage measuring mechanism is arranged at a power supply for the motor to provide a voltage measurement. An arrangement is provided to detect the closure of the centrifugal switch of the motor and is arranged to stop the timer upon detecting the closure of the centrifugal switch to provide a start time. A calculating device is provided for receiving the start time and the voltage measurement and for providing a calculated mass of the fabric load in the dryer.

Abstract: A working machine failure diagnosis method for performing a failure diagnosis by transmitting and receiving signals through communication devices provided at a working machine and at an information management center, according to the present invention, includes: a first step in which a first signal related to a failure of the working machine is generated at the working machine and the first signal is transmitted to the information management center from the working machine via the communication devices; a second step in which, after the first signal is transmitted, the information management center generates a second signal for identifying a location of the failure based upon the first signal and the second signal is then transmitted from the information management center to the working machine via the communication devices; and a third step in which failure information corresponding to the first signal and the second signal is provided to an operator.

Abstract: A device capable of reducing an erroneous operation with a simple configuration in which, when two or more conductors M1, M2, M3 (three of them in FIG. 1) are attracted by three or more magnets 1a, 1b, 1c, 1d (four of them in FIG. 1), the conductors M1, M2, M3 are electrically connected between the respective magnets to bring a series circuit 3 into conduction that causes an electric current Is to flow, whereby an electric signal (voltage) Vs(=V) indicating the detection of the conductors M1, M2, M3 is output.

Abstract: A hydraulic excavator 1 has an area limiting excavation control function for controlling operation of a front working device so as to form a target work plane. A remote control terminal 102 for wirelessly maneuvering the hydraulic excavator 1 is provided in a management office so that entry of setting information of a target excavation plane and remote maneuvering can be performed from the side of the remote control terminal 102. A display unit 71b for displaying a positional relationship between the hydraulic excavator 1 and the target excavation plane is further provided in the remote control terminal. An operator can remotely set the target excavation plane while looking at a screen of the display unit 71b, and also form the target excavation plane by remotely maneuvering the front working device 7 using a joystick 72 with the aid of a control function of an area limiting excavation controller.

Abstract: A system for enhancing safe operation of industrial vehicles includes at least one of three sets of sensors for detecting pedestrians in zones and providing appropriate responses. Zone 1 includes a two to four foot region around a stationary vehicle which might include personnel who had recently been conversing with the vehicle's operator. Zone 2 extends from 2 to 6 feet from the vehicle and personnel entering Zone 2 will cause the vehicle's horn to sound to prevent their walking into the side of the vehicle. Zone 3 comprises hidden danger zones where personnel may enter a region where an industrial vehicle from outside the area and be unaware of the vehicle's presence. Motion detectors associated with Zone 3 cause activation of an RF tag that reflects a radio signal transmitted by the vehicle. The sounding of the horn will notify both the pedestrian and the vehicle's operator of the potential danger.

Abstract: An electric appliance monitoring system that can report an operational state of an electric appliance includes a monitoring part and a transmission part. The monitoring part monitors the operational state of the electric appliance and outputs a detection signal to the transmission part. The transmission part transmits a signal corresponding to the detection signal output from the monitoring part.

Abstract: A fault-monitoring system for a large industrial conveyor belt to detect rips or other faults. There are fault-sensing units in the belt, each comprising a conductive loop extending across the belt and a sensing circuit. First and second frequency signals are directed to the fault sensor and the fault-responsive circuit sends a response of a frequency to indicate either a fault condition or a no-fault condition. Thus, the response from the fault sensor is either an “I am here and I am okay” or “I am here, but there is a fault in the belt” signal.

Abstract: A unified docking apparatus is provided. It includes a single set of controls to operate a vehicle restraint, a dock door, a barrier device, a dock seal, and a loading light. Some optional embodiments include selector switch to select which apparatus the single set of controls will control. Other optional embodiments automatically select the apparatus to be controlled by the single set of controls. A method of operating a docking apparatus using a single set of controls is also provided.

Abstract: A cable structure having a wear detection function includes an inner protective layer, an outer protective layer mounted on the inner protective layer, and a detection layer mounted between the inner protective layer and the outer protective layer. The detection layer includes two detection wires forming a complete circuit. Thus, when the outer protective layer of the cable structure is broken or worn out, the user can inspect the irregular condition of the cable structure immediately, thereby enhancing the safety of usage of the cable structure.

Abstract: A method of controlling at least one safety-specific function of a machine. The method includes monitoring a monitoring region with at least one location-resolving and time-resolving sensor, where the monitoring region includes a safety boundary which separates off a danger region and defines a safe distance from a danger zone of the machine. The method also includes detecting at least one of a position, a movement direction and a movement speed of an object. The method also includes establishing a position of the safety boundary in a variable manner depending on the at least one of a detected position, movement direction and movement speed of the object. The method also includes triggering the safety-specific function of the machine when entry into the danger region by the object is detected. An apparatus corresponding to the method is also described.

Abstract: The present invention relates to remote radio control technology, and a remote radio control system includes a radio movable working machine (1), a remote control apparatus (6A), and a movable repeater station (7). First bidirectional communication means (31, 71) having a high radio wave directionality and first automatic tracking means (32, 71A) are provided between the working machine (1) and the repeater station (7), and second bidirectional communication means (63, 76) having a high radio wave directionality, second automatic tracking means (63A, 76A), and emergency spread spectrum bidirectional communication means (64, 87) for enabling bidirectional communication between the remote control apparatus (6A) and the repeater station (7) when communication by the second bidirectional communication means (63, 76) is impossible are provided between the remote control apparatus (6A) and the repeater station (7).

Abstract: The present invention involves a methodology for the interconnection of safety control modules used for the safeguarding of personnel around points and areas of hazardous machine operation. The system includes one or more safety control modules connected together so that the safety control modules communicate with each other using actively diverse safety control signals. The safety control modules are also connected to the machine safety control circuit so that the safety control modules can stop machine operation when one or more safety control modules are activated. The use of actively diverse safety control signals provides a control reliable system.

Abstract: A method of monitoring an element of a plant is disclosed which comprises the steps of: (a) producing an image representing the state of the element and recording the image in the form of a data set; (b) comparing the data set with a norm in order to determine a change in the state of the element; and (c) producing a signal which represents the change in the state of the element.

Abstract: A sensor system includes a power harvesting subsystem, a control subsystem, a sensor subsystem and a communication subsystem. Electromechanical systems generate and dissipate multiple forms of waste energy as a by-product of system operation. Waste energy in the system may lead to destructive side effects which adversely affect the life of system elements. The sensor system is powered above a predetermined level and communicates the sensed information to a remote processor for system diagnosis.

Abstract: A system (10) controlling operation of a steam turbine (T). Sensors (12) measure dynamic pressure level variations in a stage (S1-Sn) of the turbine. A signal (Ps) from a sensor is converted to a frequency based signal (Fs). A comparator (16) compares the pressure levels at various frequencies as represented by the frequency based signal (Fs) to a matrix of limiting values including both alarm and trip signal limits. The control system provides an alarm to an operator of the steam turbine if the comparison indicates that an alarm limit has been exceeded, or takes the steam turbine off line, if a trip signal limit has been exceeded. This is done to prevent damage to the steam turbine. However, the control system maintains the steam turbine in operation if no aeromechanical disturbances or instabilities, as sensed by the sensors, has occurred.

Abstract: This invention relates to self-propelled, mobile input/output bins (MIOBs). Such structures of this type, generally, allow several MIOBs to communicate with one another and a data center. For example, the MIOBs can communicate with a data center if one of the MIOBs experiences a breakdown so that MIOB can be sent to assist with the breakdown.

Abstract: A plurality of wires (33, 34; 35, 36) are disposed near the bottom (23-25) of blade root sockets (16-18) of a rotating disk 39 of a gas turbine engine by vapor deposition and etching, the wires including connections to excitation nodes (40, 42) and detection nodes (41, 43). A nearby stationary member of the engine mounts an oscillator amplifier (55) which drives a coil (57) that excites the circuitry, and a coil (62) drives an amplifier (65) and a processor (67) which provides an indication of whether or not one or more of the wires are broken by a crack.

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 method for diagnosing a fabrication machine for a semiconductor device, in which damage condition of components for fast driving can be recognized and failure of the components can be predicted, and the machine are provided. Vibration information of a drive member is sent from a motor controller for controlling a motor connected to the drive member to a machine controller. The vibration information is stored in an information storage in the machine controller and operated in an operational processor, and condition of the drive member according to the operation results is displayed on a display unit at any time. Therefore, when some failure occurs in the drive member, the specifics can be known with the display unit without need for connecting a special analyzer or PC to the fabrication machine for a semiconductor device. Consequently, the machine is capable for self-diagnosing, and thus trouble of the drive member can be prevented from happening.

Abstract: This invention relates to self-propelled, mobile input/output bins (MIOB). Such structures of the type, generally, allow the MIOB to replenish the consumable handling device. For example, the MIOB can be used to replenish the paper in a printer and/or printing device.

Abstract: An apparatus for converting measurement signals into digital signals suitable for processing in a microprocessor (12), with the signals having been initiated in a piezo sensor (6) by accelerations acting on the sensor during the impacts of a percussion device (1), particularly a hydraulic hammer, and being used to determine the number of work strokes that have been executed in the impact direction (arrow 3) of the percussion device (1).

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: The force sensing switch comprising a housing and a movable member movable relative to the housing upon having a predetermined force applied thereagainst by an adjacent moving structure when the structure becomes misaligned, the movable member engaging circuitry within the housing which will produce an alarm signal and will stop the adjacent structure from moving.

Abstract: A method for monitoring the operating temperature within a card shelf having a plurality of discrete electronic cards includes receiving a first temperature indicative of an operating temperature of an item on one of the electronic cards. A second temperature indicative of an ambient temperature in which the electronic card is operating is also received. Based on the first and second temperatures, a temperature controller determines whether the item is operating within specified limits.

Abstract: An apparatus for determining an approximate mass of a fabric load in an automatic clothes dryer wherein the dryer utilizes a motor including a centrifugal switch which closes upon the motor achieving a predetermined speed at a start of the motor. A timer device is provided which is capable of timing intervals of time measured in milliseconds. A current detecting mechanism is arranged in a current supply line for the dryer motor and is arranged to start the timer upon detecting a start of the dryer motor. A voltage measuring mechanism is arranged at a power supply for the motor to provide a voltage measurement. An arrangement is provided to detect the closure of the centrifugal switch of the motor and is arranged to stop the timer upon detecting the closure of the centrifugal switch to provide a start time. A calculating device is provided for receiving the start time and the voltage measurement and for providing a calculated mass of the fabric load in the dryer.

Abstract: An alarm system and method is provided for preventing injuries as may occur within a manufacturing plant using lathes, milling equipment, metal shears and other machinery. The alarm system is so positioned to allow safe operation of the machinery while tracking the operator's movement. A transmitter attached to the operator's hand allows monitoring of the operator and prevents unsafe actuation of the machinery. The alarm system can also be programmed to prevent operation by unauthorized personnel and includes a trio of X, Y and Z spatially positioned receivers which are connected to a programmed system controller to activate alarms or to terminate power to the machinery.

Abstract: A bearing monitor has a bearing sensor to monitor frequencies emitted by a bearing in a rotating component. The bearing sensor has an output to a processor. The processor is attached to the rotating component to process the output from the bearing sensor to a digital or logical signal, which may include determining if the output indicates that the bearing requires service.

Abstract: A method of signaling for a change of an air filter of a vehicle air conditioning system is disclosed. The present invention uses a sensor installed in a conventional air conditioner and the appropriate time for changing the air filter is determined by checking compressor operation when a degree of airflow is decreased during air conditioner operation.

Abstract: A device for transmitting signals between an automation system and field device comprises a supporting plate and modules which are attachable to said supporting plate. The modules are provided with terminals especially for field devices. The supporting plate has arranged thereon data lines of a local bus and voltage-supply lines. The modules have at least local bus interfaces. The device additionally comprises at least one bus coupling module which is attachable to the supporting plate and which is provided with a local bus interface and a field bus interface for communication with said modules and said automation system.

Abstract: The step of comparing the pushing pressure developing when the pusher of a test hand presses an IC placed on the socket with the allowable press force calculated from the combined spring constant for the socket and IC, and the step of controlling the operation of the test hand at a pressure equal to or lower than the allowable press force on the basis of the result of the comparison are provided.

Abstract: A rear wheel steering angle control apparatus is provided with a rear wheel steering angle determining unit and a rear wheel steering mechanism so as to determine a steering angle ratio based upon vehicle speed and perform a rear wheel steering angle control. An alerting unit alerts that the output of the rear wheel steering mechanism is beyond a predetermined allowable range when an observing unit detects a control condition being abnormal and releases the alert when the output of the rear wheel steering mechanism is within the predetermined allowable range.

Abstract: A system for remotely managing a network of waste containers (12), each of which is associated with a monitoring unit (38), utilizes a central computer (50) having a communication link to each monitoring unit (38). The central computer (50) provides a dynamically updated display, via a display module (60) having a full container window (or zone) which shows full containers (12), an alarm window (or zone) which shows non-full containers (12) having an alarm condition, and a container status window (or zone) which shows non-full containers not having an alarm condition. The system additionally includes one or more remote monitors (404) capable of providing user access to the container status information maintained by the central computer (50, 402).

Abstract: Systems and methods for monitoring the efficiency characteristics and performance statistics of an air compressor system, comprising, an air compressor system, an air compressor system monitoring module operable for receiving input data and sending results data, the monitoring module having an analyzer for analyzing input data relating to air compressor system operation and generating output data relating to air compressor system performance and efficiency, and a communications network operably coupled to the air compressor system and air compressor system monitoring module, the communications network operable for acquiring the air compressor system data and for communicating the air compressor system data to the air compressor system monitoring module.

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 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: A motor monitoring system including a control chip and a motor is disclosed. The control chip could be a chipset or a monitoring chip able to control the rotational speed of the motor. The control chip is used to receive a temperature reading and output a control signal according to the temperature reading. The motor receives the control signal and automatically adjusts the speed of its own accordingly. Hence, the configuration of the monitoring system is simplified, the R&D flow is shortened, and the cost of R&D and manufacturing are greatly reduced.

Abstract: A component, such as an electric motor, for use in a subterranean environment. The component comprises an attached recording system to record the cumulative use time of the component. The recording system typically includes a timing circuit or other circuit to output data related to use of the component. This data is recorded by a recording device to maintain a cumulative total.

Abstract: An apparatus is provided for the automatic advance warning of imminent automatic door closure to passengers of public transportation vehicles. Comprised of a panel mounted above the automatic door, consisting of an alarm light, a message display area, and a speaker capable of producing audible alarm warnings as well as audible verbal warning messages, it is capable of warning incoming passengers that automatic door closure is imminent. When a door close signal is received from existing door control circuitry, the apparatus is activated and it produces the audible and visual warning messages. After an appropriate delay period the audible and visual warning devices are deactivated and a door close signal is issued to the existing automatic doors and associated door safety guard circuitry.

Abstract: A method of detecting damage to a structural member which is part of a working arm of a working apparatus, which arm is moveable relative to a body of the apparatus by an actuator. In use, the arm carries a load at another end thereof. The method including the steps of locating in or on the structural member in a position which is liable to damage, at least one filament. So long as the filament remains undamaged, a signal is transmitted along the length of the filament. In the event of an interruption of the transmitted signal, a fault signal is generated. The fault signal is used to disable operation of the actuator. The method is particularly useful for working arms made from light weight composite materials in the form of a matrix of fibers in a resin material which is susceptible to impact damage which may not be visible.

Abstract: An apparatus for sending signals downhole during drilling operations uses a main pump to pump mud from a mud pit at a substantially constant flow rate. The bulk of the pumped mud goes downhole to maintain adequate circulation for the drill bit. A bypass pipe is provided with a shut-off valve that is controlled by an electronic controller. By pulsing the opening and closing of the shut-off valve, the volumetric flow downhole is pulsed. The pulse amplitude and duration can be controlled. These pulses in the flow rate are detected by a suitable downhole device such as a flow rate measurement device, a pressure detector or a turbine. The initial “wake-up” pulse is made long enough so that the detection device downhole is always able to detect it. Subsequent to this wake-up pulse, adjustments are made to the pulse duration, in steps of about 2 seconds, for the smallest pulse period that is detectable downhole.