Abstract: In a magnetic disk device and other memory devices, the scale and cycle of disturbance applied to each memory device are monitored to make a distinction between a harmful shock and harmless vibrations and detect the disturbance. Values at at least two points, of a waveform signal corresponding to the disturbance are captured. A) The above distinction is carried out from the size or magnitude of the inclination of a straight line defined by the two points. B) The function of capturing and storing the waveform signal corresponding to the disturbance as digital data, and outputting a slice level value for providing suitable detection sensitivity from a conversion table based on the digital data, or correcting and adjusting it and outputting the result is further set.

Abstract: A vibration monitor is mounted on a vehicle for monitoring vibrations in the axles and wheels of the vehicle which may indicate some type of failure associated with the wheels. The monitor includes sensors mounted on the axles which are connected to a control box for disabling the vehicle in response to receipt of a vibration signal from the sensors. The control box is arranged to vent the air brake circuit of the truck for applying the brakes of the truck if the control box receives a vibration signal from the sensors having a magnitude which exceeds an acceleration threshold and a duration which exceeds a time threshold determined by the control box. In one embodiment, electrical acceleration sensors are provided which transmit the vibration signals to the control box using an intermittent RF signal having a unique identification signal for indicating which sensor has recorded each vibration signal.

Abstract: A vibration monitor is provided which is worn on the wrist of an operative for an operating plant or apparatus. The monitor includes a piezoelectric transducer and associated circuitry which generates electronic digital signals during the periods when vibrations are experienced by the operative. Preferably, the plant or apparatus has a transmitter which transmits a code identifying the plant which is received by the monitor. Alternatively, the code may be entered manually. The monitor preferably includes a logger which can be connected to a host computer which data can be transferred over an external communications link. The logger includes a storage device for storing how long the operative is subjected to vibrations.

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: An apparatus that detects the absence of engine audio pulses, (sounds of a operating engine), for warning of an engine stall. The apparatus is also designed with a initial flashing test cycle to validate it will be operational in the event of an engine stall. The apparatus is connected between the power source of the vehicle, (battery), and the vehicle lights. If an absence of audio pulses is detected, the apparatus generates a flashing signal that causes a switch to alternately connect and disconnect the power source to the vehicle lights to flash the lights for a limited period of time of forty five seconds. The apparatus is connected to the outside of the vehicles operating systems.

Abstract: A cordless machine operation detector including a vibration sensor, a location detector, a data logger, and a transceiver. The vibration sensor detects when a machine is operating by sensing the vibrations that are caused by the machine during operation. The location detector provides a geographical location and includes a time clock for providing time. The data logger uses time from the time clock and an operation indication from the vibration sensor for logging the time for operation of the machine. The data logger also logs a geographical location associated with the machine operation. The transceiver communicates the times and locations of the operation of the machine through an interchange to a tracking monitor. The machine operation detector, the interchange, or the tracking monitor includes an engine time monitor and an alarm sensor. The engine time monitor tracks an accumulated time of operation of the machine.

Abstract: A method and apparatus of monitoring the condition or mechanical health of slowly rotating machinery comprises processing signals from sensing means applied to the machinery, which processing approximately or exactly sub-divides the period of a rotational cycle into a number of time or cyclic phase windows, each of which is long compared to the typical duration of a transient excitation of the structure at the frequency or frequencies of detection, applies a threshold level or acceptance criteria or calculates one in such a way that the presence or absence of any significant detectable activity in each of the time or phase windows can be determined for each rotational cycle and the fraction or percentage of those time or phase windows in which activity is present can be measured or averaged so as to provide a statistically significant indication of the extent of the activity throughout the rotational cycle.

Abstract: A press monitoring and control system includes a press machine, a press configuration module and a press controller. The press machine has a lower die coupled to an upper die, wherein the lower die includes a top surface supporting a strip of material to be formed into a part after a stripper plate coupled to the upper die contacts the strip of material. The press configuration module includes an input module that processes a set of input data corresponding to a particular job and generates a data signal corresponding to the set of input data. The press controller is coupled to the press machine and the press configuration module. The controller processes the data signal, compares the data signal to a set of parameters corresponding to the particular job, and generates at least one servo signal to adjust at least one servo in response to the data signal.

Abstract: A paging system for washers and dryers including a transmitter adapted for coupling with a washer and dryer. The transmitter can detect an end of a cycle of the washer and dryer. The transmitter includes a plurality of function buttons. A receiver is provided that is adapted for being worn by the person. The receiver is in communication with the transmitter whereupon the transmitter detecting the end of the cycle, the receiver will be sent a signal. The receiver includes an alarm that is activated upon receiving the signal. The receiver includes a plurality of function buttons.

Abstract: A device for detecting undesirable vibrations in a vehicle drive line utilizes a sensor that communicates with a controller to indicate undesirable vibrations in a drive line component. In one example, a temperature sensor is placed in a central portion of a universal joint. The temperature sensor preferably is supported within a single housing along with a transmitter that is responsive to the temperature sensor to transmit a signal to a remotely located receiver without using a hardwire connection between the transmitter and receiver. Packaging the temperature sensor, transmitter and a power source within a single housing provides the ability to seal off or close a series of lubrication channels that extend through the universal joint. In another example, a contact-based sensor provides a signal whenever a vibration of a drive line component occurs.

Abstract: A paging system for washers and dryers including a transmitter adapted for coupling with a washer and dryer. The transmitter can detect an end of a cycle of the washer and dryer. The transmitter includes a plurality of function buttons. A receiver is provided that is adapted for being worn by the person. The receiver is in communication with the transmitter whereupon the transmitter detecting the end of the cycle, the receiver will be sent a signal. The receiver includes an alarm that is activated upon receiving the signal. The receiver includes a plurality of function buttons.

Abstract: A process is disclosed for the automated diagnosis of monitored objects, especially of drive strings, with a stationary, fully automatically operating data collecting unit positioned on the monitored object and a monitoring terminal spatially separated therefrom, whereby the quantitative description of the damage condition and therefore the activation of data transfer and subsequent reporting of diagnosis statements at the monitoring terminal is triggered by the significance of a damage property correspondingly weighted by the damage type, or a combination of different damage properties, which are specified by the amplitude of the physical variable corresponding to the kinetic occurrences which are formed for the harmonic excitation within the spectrum of the wide band signal detected by way of sensors at the machine surface, or for the impact impulse type excitation of the high pass filtered envelope curve spectrum of the same signal, or for the discontinuously appearing determinant impulse excitation from t

Abstract: A method and system for the storage and retrieval of media in an automated storage library having media storage cells each housing a single media includes a robotic mechanism. The robotic mechanism is operable to move through the storage library to access the media in the media storage cells. A vibration sensor is associated with the robotic mechanism for generating a vibration signal indicative of vibration of the robotic mechanism. A controller is operable with the vibration sensor for processing the vibration signal to determine if the vibration of the robotic mechanism is abnormal. In the event that the vibration is abnormal, the controller generates a warning signal to warn the operator of the storage library of a possible problem prior to actual failure of the robotic mechanism. The controller is also operable to associated the vibration of the robotic mechanism with particular storage library locations to warn the operator of possible problem locations of the storage library.

Abstract: An apparatus and associated method for detecting impending earthquakes includes at least one sensor, and preferably multiple sensors, for mounting on a building or other like structure, and include a transducer for converting vibration signals to electronic impulses. The signals are transmitted to a solid state detection circuit, which distinguishes between extraneous signals and signals indicative of the P-waves which signal an impending earthquake. Discrimination between relevant and non-relevant may be achieved by selecting a minimum amplitude and duration of signals within a selected frequency range, and triggering an alarm when the selected minimums are exceeded. Where multiple sensors are deployed, temporal overlap between selected signals can be assessed for further discrimination.

Abstract: A dispensing device includes a base on which a container is connected and a sound-emitting member is received in the base. A biasing member is biased between the container and the base. A valve is connected to the container and includes an outlet.

Abstract: A device for controlling a traffic light, where the controlling of the traffic light is dependent upon receipt and recognition of vibrations. The device includes a vibration receiver for detecting vibrations transmitted through the ground, a processor for converting one or more of the vibrations into a control signal and a controller to trigger a traffic light in response to the control signal. The device may also include a vibration generator, e.g., at least one channel or groove in a traffic-bearing surface. The vibration generator preferably facilitates the production of a pattern of vibrations when the tire of a vehicle passes over the vibration generator. Further, the device may include a vibration receiver, capable of detecting a pattern of vibrations and producing a pattern of signals corresponding to said pattern of vibrations.

Abstract: A signal analysis system and method for analyzing an input signal acquired from a mechanical system. The mechanical system may include at least one rotating apparatus. The signal analysis system may be configured to: (a) receive samples of the input signal, (b) perform an invertible joint time-frequency transform (e.g. a Gabor transform) on the samples of the input signal to produce a first array of coefficients which depend on time and frequency, (c) select first coefficients from the first array which correspond to a first subset of one or more order components in the input signal, (d) generate a time domain signal from the first coefficients, and (e) present the time domain signal to a user on a presentation device. The signal analysis system generate the time domain signal from the first coefficients by performing an inverse joint time-frequency transform on the first coefficients.

Abstract: An alarm assembly is provided alerting the operator through one of a visual, audible, or tactile signal, the occurrence of a specified event. The alarm assembly includes a locking mechanism coupled to a substrate which has a natural frequency. The locking mechanism is maintained in a condition which inhibits the natural frequency of the substrate unless commanded to do so by an electronic circuit which includes sensors for monitoring one or more specific criterion. The locking mechanism is preferably a non-Newtonian flow fluid locking mechanism which uses a magneto-rheological fluid to dynamically adjust the locking strength of the locking mechanism as well as the natural frequency of the substrate based upon user inputs and dynamic events. The alarm assembly can be dynamically “tuned” in and out of the natural frequency of the substrate so the substrate vibrates, produces an audible noise, or generates a current upon the occurrence of a predetermined event.

Abstract: A method and system for the storage and retrieval of media in an automated storage library having media storage cells each housing a single media includes a robotic mechanism. The robotic mechanism is operable to move through the storage library to access the media in the media storage cells. A vibration sensor is associated with the robotic mechanism for generating a vibration signal indicative of vibration of the robotic mechanism. A controller is operable with the vibration sensor for processing the vibration signal to determine if the vibration of the robotic mechanism is abnormal. In the event that the vibration is abnormal, the controller generates a warning signal to warn the operator of the storage library of a possible problem prior to actual failure of the robotic mechanism. The controller is also operable to associated the vibration of the robotic mechanism with particular storage library locations to warn the operator of possible problem locations of the storage library.

Abstract: A robot apparatus for detecting a sound signal outputted from a sound signal generating unit to move to a position of the sound signal generating device, wherein the sound signal has a specific pattern, includes: at least three sound receiving unit (114) for receiving the sound signal; a phase difference detecting unit (118) for detecting a phase difference between each sound signal from the sound receiving unit (114); a processing unit (125) for determining a position of the sound generating unit using the phase difference, to generate a moving control signal; and a moving unit (130) for moving the robot apparatus in response to the moving control signal.

Abstract: A monitor attaches to a machine or proximate a machine to determine the health and operating status of the machine. The monitor is preferably self-contained, having its own internal power source, electronics, and sensor suite. One or more sensors are provided to sense machine operating characteristics such as temperature, flux, and vibration. Sensor outputs are processed and analyzed by monitor electronics to determine various operating parameters, including machine speed and load, and to determine when an anomalous machine operating condition is present. Monitor electronics are operable to transform time domain data generated by the sensors to frequency domain data for storage and/or analysis. A communications port enables a peripheral device, such as a notebook computer or portable data collector, to communicate with the monitor and download stored data.

Abstract: The present invention involves a system and method for detecting a graffiti-making act such as the spray of a spray paint can, the writing with a felt-marker pen on a surface, and the scratching with an abrasive instrument on a surface. The system includes one or more sensors adapted to sense the graffiti-making act and transmit a signal representative of the graffiti-making act, and a base unit including electronics adapted to process the signal and determined whether the signal represents a graffiti-making act, and a communication device coupled to the electronics and adapted to communicate to one or more entities that a graffiti-making act has been detected. The method includes sonically detecting the graffiti-making act, and initiating an alarm indicating that the graffiti-making act took place.

Abstract: Described is a device (10) for monitoring bearing performance in apparatus having an aperture sized and configured to receive a grease fitting. The device includes temperature sensing components (34) or vibration sensing components (36), or both, to enable detection of impending bearing failure, and is adapted to either replace or supplement conventional grease fittings (28). The device is configured so as to cooperate with bearings housings of widely divergent dimensions, and in each case to permit adjustment of the device, including the sensing components thereof, to place it in very close proximity to the bearing.

Abstract: A method and system for the storage and retrieval of media cartridges in an automated storage library having media cartridge storage cells each housing a single media cartridge. A robotic mechanism is operable to move through the storage library to access the media cartridges in the media cartridge storage cells. A vibration sensor is associated with the robotic mechanism for generating a vibration signal indicative of vibration of the robotic mechanism. A controller is operable with the vibration sensor for processing the vibration signal to determine if the vibration of the robotic mechanism is abnormal. In the event that the vibration is abnormal, the controller generates a warning signal to warn the operator of the storage library of a possible problem prior to actual failure of the robotic mechanism. The controller is also operable to associated the vibration of the robotic mechanism with particular storage library locations to warn the operator of possible problem locations of the storage library.

Abstract: A self-powered wireless transducer is disclosed for monitoring external physical conditions, such as excessive vibrations in a bearing. The transducer includes an energy conversion source, such as a piezoelectric sensor to sense the external physical condition and create a power and characteristic signal that is used to power an RF transmitting circuit. A transmitter is provided to transmit signals indicative of the external physical condition, or changes in that physical condition, such as increased vibrations in a bearing to detect bearing faults before a breakdown. In this manner, the monitored machinery can be shutdown in an orderly manner and preventative maintenance can be completed. The self-powered wireless transducer includes an voltage storage device to receive electrical voltage from the piezoelectric sensor and a voltage detector to detect the level of voltage on the voltage storage device.

Abstract: A vibration sensor includes a housing having an opening, and a movable trigger retained within the housing by a resilient member. The moveable trigger includes a projection of a dimension to fit at least partially through the opening. The resilient member retains the movable trigger within the housing until overcome by a predetermined acceleration. Whereas the moveable trigger is maintained within the housing the vibration sensor is minimally affected by radial acceleration while providing a calibrated resistance which must be overcome by an acceleration of predetermined severity along the measured direction. When the sensor experiences a predetermined acceleration, the trigger slides within the housing until the projection encounters the opening. The projection then “pops” through the opening such that the projection encounters a switch which awakes and activates a transmitter to send a signal to a warning device.

Abstract: Devices for monitoring bearing performance in apparatus having an aperture sized and configured to receive a grease fitting. The devices comprise a temperature sensor or a vibration sensor, or both, to enable detection of impending bearing failure, and further comprise rigidly attached electronic components which amplify signals generated by the temperature sensor and/or vibration sensor. The devices may be adapted to either replace or supplement conventional grease fittings, and enable the transmission of electronic signals which may be used for constant monitoring of critical equipment. Bearing housings which incorporate these features, as well as subassemblies and related methods, are also described.

Abstract: In the present method and apparatus for processing a vibro-acoustic signal emitted by a high-voltage switching system, the vibro-acoustic signal is converted into a digital signal. The digital signal is rectified and the resulting rectified signal is applied to a convolutional filter with a spectral window to produce a smoothed signal. The smoothed signal is decimated to produce a decimated signal representing an envelope of the vibro-acoustic signal. A time realignment of the decimated signal is carried out with respect to a reference signature to produce a realigned signal. Time deviation values generate an alarm if they exceed a limit threshold. The realigned signal is added as a factor of means providing a reference signature and an actualized signature. Variances of the realigned signal are calculated with respect to the reference and actualized signatures.

Abstract: A portable electronic vibration measurement device, detects a large number of structure-borne sound signals using a predetermined sequence of a plurality of specific individual measurements each plurality of measurements taken at a different sampling frequency.

Abstract: A drive line vibration sensor includes a mercury switch, a controller, and a warning device. The mercury switch is preferably positioned such that it is minimally affected by radial acceleration yet remains sensitive to longitudinal accelerations along the longitudinal axis of a drive line. To minimize the affect of radial acceleration, the mercury switch is attached to the drive line such that the mercury switch is tilted relative to the longitudinal axis such that the radial acceleration of the drive line does not activate the mercury switch. If the mercury switch experiences a predetermined acceleration, the controller identifies that the mercury switch is activated and the controller then awakes and activates a transmitter, such as a radio frequency (RF) transmitter to send a signal to a remote warning device such as a warning light.

Abstract: The invention relates to a device for measuring noise comprising a sensor circuit having at least two sensors, an ambient noise eliminating circuit and a signal processing circuit. All the sensors are set to detect the ambient or background noise, however the source noise is positioned for detection by one of the sensors. The output of the sensor circuit is connected to the input of the ambient noise eliminating circuit where the ambient noise is eliminated from the noise signal leaving only a signal of the noise source. The signal processing circuit receives the signal of the measured noise, which is rectified and amplified, and then processed in the comparator circuit to determine whether the noise level is acceptable or not. The result is displayed through the display circuit comprising a plurality of LEDs.

Abstract: A shock detector provides for ultra low power detection and measurement of damage to an object caused by shock and vibration. The shock detector includes a shock sensor, such as an accelerometer, attached to the object that produces an electrical vibration signal representative of the mechanical vibration of the object. A signal conditioning circuit determines when the magnitude of the electrical vibration signal exceeds a threshold voltage and converts the signal into a digital signal that is in the high voltage state when the magnitude of the electrical vibration signal is above the threshold voltage. Otherwise, the digital signal is in a low voltage state. A data logger records the time spent in the high voltage state. The measured time data and the threshold voltage are then used to estimate the damage applied to the object. Mounting a number of the conditioning circuits in parallel allows for a more accurate estimation.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for dynamically monitoring in real-time the operation of a press machine and tooling during actual production operations, in order to evaluate the true interaction between actual vibration activity occurring at multiple locations within the press machine geometry. A configuration of accelerometers is used to acquire measurement data indicating the acceleration of the press machine and for tooling at a plurality of press machine locations. An integrator converts the acceleration data into displacement data representing the displacement activity of the press machine at the indicated machine locations. Filtering the displacement data provides deflection measurements representing the vibrational activity occurring at the relevant machine and tooling location. Measurements of the relative press motion activity between selected machine locations provide an indication of the influence that deflection activity occurring at respective press machine locations has on one another.

Abstract: A decorative/warning luminous means emitting flashes only in a vibrating state and in the night and therefore consuming only very small amount of power. The decorative/warning luminous means includes an actuating unit consisting of serially connected photo-sensor circuit, resistor, and vibration switch and capable of detecting surrounding luminance and vibrating condition. The actuating unit has two ends connected to two electrodes of a DC power source and outputs a trigger signal that is a signal of voltage value detected at a position between the photo-sensor and the resistor for actuating the decorative/warning luminous means to produce flashes. The actuating unit is always in an open state and does not consume any power in the daytime, so long as the decorative/warning luminous means is not actuated.

Abstract: A motion detector for detecting movement of a rail based vehicle and the direction of that movement is provided. The motion detector can be integral with or attachable to an end-of-train unit and can include a single axis accelerometer mounted at an angle from the rails for detecting acceleration in both the lateral and vertical directions. A systems controller, which can include an analyzer, can be provided to receive and analyze output from the accelerometer to determine a motion state and a direction. A power controller can be provided for supplying power to the accelerometer on an intermittent basis to conserve power. A calibration unit can be provided to both initially calibrate and to subsequently recalibrate the accelerometer after a stopped motion state is detected. Additionally, an input/output port and an output driver for conditioning the signal for output to the end-of-train unit can be provided.

Abstract: A hand-held, portable device recommends dynamically preferred speeds for stabilizing or reducing undesirable vibration such as chatter in a machining process. The device may be applied to machining processes such as turning, boring, milling and drilling which exhibit a relative rotational motion between the cutting tool and workpiece. The device measures in a safe, non-contact manner via a microphone the dominant audio signal component of the sound pressure emanating from the machining processes. Without prior knowledge of the machining process parameters or the dynamic characteristics of the machine tool or workpiece, the audio signal is conditioned and processed to determine the frequency component levels. The rotational speeds which are more likely to lead to a stable machining process are calculated based on the number of teeth on the cutting tool and the identified dominant frequency of vibration. The dynamically preferred speeds are displayed as recommendations to the process operator or machinist.

Abstract: A method of monitoring sounds of a driveline includes detecting a sound from a driveline, comparing the detected sound with-a predicted sound of the driveline, and, when the detected sound differs from the predicted sound of the driveline, sending a warning signal that the driveline may be experiencing a problem. The method of monitoring the sounds of a driveline is used to determine the physical condition of the driveline. The present invention allows the driver to check the physical condition of a driveline while operating the vehicle. A sound detector detects sounds from a driveline and send sound signals to a control which receives the sound signals, performs computations based on the detected sounds, and compares the computations with predicted sounds of the driveline. The control sends warning signals to a display, when the detected sounds differ from the predicted sounds.

Abstract: A security system having a vibration detector that senses vibration in any direction is disclosed. The vibration detector includes two or three detector elements that each have a magnet, and a coil or Hall-effect device that produces a signal in response to changes in a magnetic field in the vibration detector caused by movement of a magnet. The magnet in each detector element is mounted for reciprocating movement in one or more planes about a rest position. Each magnet is held temporarily in the rest position by springs. When three elements are used, the magnets are mounted on journalled shafts or on plate-like springs for reciprocal movement in directions that are at right angles to each other.

Abstract: A dynamic displacement sensor for detecting an out-of-fluid condition in a liquid delivery system detects an increased amplitude of pump motion of a reciprocating air pump and provides an output signal upon detecting the increased amplitude motion. The detector includes a spring-mass combination supported within a housing such that the mass is movable along a defined axis of the housing, with the spring applying a restoring force to the mass when the mass moves away from its static position. The detector is attached to the pump with its defined axis aligned parallel with the pump axis. A sensor within the housing is triggered to change state when the mass is displaced by pump motion of a predetermined amplitude and frequency, thereby providing is an output signal indicating an out-of-fluid condition.

Abstract: A sensor assembly for monitoring shocks and vibrations on sensitive devices is provided. The sensor assembly comprises a detector beam supported between a pair of support members. A detector weight is secured to the detector beam between the support members. The detector beam is fracturable in response to the application of a predetermined level of force. An electrical circuit may be coupled to the detector beam for monitoring electrical continuity and structural integrity of the detector beam. The detector beam provides passive monitoring as the detector beam will fracture irrespectively of the power state of the electrical circuit. One or more detector beams may be used to monitor forces along a variety of different axes.

Abstract: A motion detector for detecting movement of a rail based vehicle and the direction of that movement is provided. The motion detector can be integral with or attachable to an end-of-train unit and can include a single axis accelerometer mounted at an angle from the rails for detecting acceleration in both the lateral and vertical directions. A systems controller, which can include an analyzer, can be provided to receive and analyze output from the accelerometer to determine a motion state and a direction. A power controller can be provided for supplying power to the accelerometer on an intermittent basis to conserve power. A calibration unit can be provided to both initially calibrate and to subsequently recalibrate the accelerometer after a stopped motion state is detected. Additionally, an input/output port and an output driver for conditioning the signal for output to the end-of-train unit can be provided.

Abstract: In a vehicle driveability evaluation system, an engine is coupled to a dynamic dynamometer which is capable of changing a load torque and a speed in a very short time. A control unit controls the dynamic dynamometer so that the load torque and the speed of the dynamometer simulate the load and the speed of the engine when it is mounted on an actual vehicle. The driveability evaluation test is performed by operating the engine while simulating various running conditions of the vehicle by the dynamic dynamometer. Engine operating parameters such as an engine speed and an output torque are converted by a driveability data generating unit into driveability data such as an acceleration and vibration of the vehicle in accordance with the characteristic of the vehicle. These driveability data are converted by a sense-data generating unit into stimuli such as visual images, sounds and forces which can be directly perceived by the human senses.

Abstract: There is provided at least one pressure detector for detecting a change in pressure of an insulating medium, a vibration detector for detecting vibration of an oil-filled electric equipment, and a determination processor for determining, based on information detected by the pressure detector and the vibration detector, whether an internal short circuit has occurred in the oil-filled electrical equipment.

Abstract: A device for controlling a traffic light, where the controlling of the traffic light is dependent upon receipt and recognition of vibrations. The device includes a vibration receiver for detecting vibrations transmitted through the ground, a processor for converting one or more of the vibrations into a control signal and a controller to trigger a traffic light in response to the control signal. The device may also include a vibration generator, e.g., at least one channel or groove in a traffic-bearing surface. The vibration generator preferably facilitates the production of a pattern of vibrations when the tire of a vehicle passes over the vibration generator. Further, the device may include a vibration receiver, capable of detecting a pattern of vibrations and producing a pattern of signals corresponding to said pattern of vibrations.

Abstract: The invention has utility generally for monitoring any part for severance of the part. The invention is specifically useful for monitoring severance of a tension blade in a tension blade grid. For general monitoring of a part, the apparatus has wireless connection between the sensing unit and the control unit. The wireless connection is achieved with a transmit/receive unit using radiofrequency power transfer for electrical power and using infrared transmitters and receivers for signal transfer. For food processing, specifically for a vegetable cutting method employing at least one tension blade in a first tension blade grid through which vegetables are passed for cutting the vegetables wherein the at least one tension blade is severed during the cutting, the invention provides for diverting the vegetables to a second tension blade grid.

Abstract: The operational condition of a machine is evaluated when the machine's vibration spectrum deviates from an acceptable state, where an acceptable state is defined by an alarm limit envelope. The amplitude of individual peaks within the machine's vibration spectrum is compared to the alarm limit envelope, and a deviation severity value characterizing the severity of the machine's deviation from an acceptable state is determined for each deviating peak. The deviation severity value represents the severity of deviation when at least one individual peak within the machine's vibration spectrum exceeds the alarm limit envelope. The deviation severity value is obtained by determining the peak excess magnitude for each vibration peak, where the peak excess magnitude is the amount by which the amplitude of each deviating vibration peak exceeds the alarm limit envelope level. The peak excess magnitude is then normalized by a frequency-dependent normalization factor.

Abstract: An apparatus is disclosed consisting of one or more machine monitors which attach to one or more machines to sense a physical characteristic of the machine, such as vibration or temperature, and produce wireless transmissions corresponding to the sensed characteristic, and a command station which receives the transmissions from the machine monitors and processes the information to give an indication of the condition of the machine. The machine monitor incorporates a wireless transmitter to transmit the sensor data, and the command station incorporates a wireless receiver to receive the sensor data. In the preferred embodiment of the invention, the machine monitors are not continuously on, but turn on only at preprogrammed times according to turn-on commands generated by a timer circuit within each machine monitor. In another preferred embodiment, each machine monitor includes a receiver and the command station includes a transmitter to enable the command station to send commands to each machine monitor.

Abstract: The object of this invention is to produce a monitor which can correctly distinguish normal from abnormal vibration using automatically selected monitoring features and algorithms. The monitor can be used with a variety of devices with different vibration characteristics. The monitor according to this invention has a sensor that detects the vibration of an object. The monitor is operated in learning mode when the object is vibrating normally. The waveform of the vibration detected by this sensor is sampled over an appropriate period and analyzed. The data for each sampling feature are subjected to statistical processing, and the data which evince slight change are extracted as monitoring features. A monitoring algorithm is automatically made for these monitoring features. The algorithm selected in learning mode are used to evaluate the vibration of an object when the monitor is in operating mode.

Abstract: Vibration data is transmitted from a remote site to a control facility using wireless data transmission. In one embodiment, the vibration signal is conditioned and digitized, and then sent via satellite to a hub satellite receiving station. From the hub satellite receiving station, the data may be sent to the control facility via the public telephone network.

Abstract: This invention pertains to sensorless measurement of electromagnetically induced displacement in actuators and similar units. Primarily, the device imposes a constant frequency and amplitude excitation sine wave on a coil through a fixed impedance of a drive isolation network. The amplitude and phase of the voltage across the coil fluctuate depending upon the coil's inductance. This variation in the value of the inductance is dependent upon the change in magnetic flux density generated by the coil current and the displacement in air gap between the coil pole and armature. Accordingly, a measurable magnitude of displacement can be controllably imposed upon a system of solenoids. The displacement is thus measured and set without the use of extrinsic sensors.