Workpiece Patents (Class 340/686.5)
  • Patent number: 10758989
    Abstract: A method for detection of a fault in a sensing cable within a saw detects potential failures in a sensing cable that is part of an object detection system in the saw. The method includes generating a predetermined excitation signal transmitted through a first conductor and a second conductor in the sensing cable, detecting a return signal from the first conductor and the second conductor in the sensing cable in response to the predetermined excitation signal, identifying a signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) of the return signal, and generating an output indicating a fault in the sensing cable in response to the SNR of the return signal being below a predetermined value.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 4, 2016
    Date of Patent: September 1, 2020
    Assignees: Robert Bosch Tool Corporation, Robert Bosch GmbH
    Inventors: Dieter Volpert, Bharadwaja Maharshi Ramaswamy, Indumathi Chandrashekar, Ankur Mishra, Seenivasan Ayyamperumal, Eric Laliberte
  • Patent number: 9939468
    Abstract: A shock resistant, non contacting alternating current (AC) sensing device intended to be worn on the hands in the formation of protective gloves. Alerting user of AC voltage potential when approaching energized equipment, protects the user's palms and fingertips from energized components. The glove encompasses non contacting AC voltage potential sensing circuitry, electrically receptive antenna throughout anterior hand surfaces, layer intended to protect the user and antenna from electrical contact. As the user's hands approach an electrically energized apparatus of equipment, the antenna will receive signaling transponding to the logic board, which will then energize a notification appliance alerting the user of danger.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 5, 2017
    Date of Patent: April 10, 2018
    Inventor: Michael Joseph Dyszel
  • Patent number: 9397732
    Abstract: Some embodiments provide a first mote and a system of motes for detecting a spatially configuration without the need for an external reference. A first mote is configured for wirelessly receiving a plurality of signal pulses transmitted by a plurality of second motes, each second mote transmitting the signal pulse at one particular modulation frequency from a plurality of frequencies of a frequency band. The first mote includes a receiver for determining from a received signal at least one of the plurality of signal pulses and for identifying the particular modulation frequency of the at least one signal pulse. The first mote further includes a clock for generating a time-stamp at which the signal pulse is received and a storage unit for storing the time-stamp and the corresponding identified particular modulation frequency. The system includes a plurality of first motes and second motes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 25, 2014
    Date of Patent: July 19, 2016
    Assignee: STICHTING INCAS3
    Inventors: Elena Talnishnikh, Hendrik Albert Duisterwinkel, Heinrich Johannes Wörtche, Johannes Hubertus Gerardus Van Pol
  • Patent number: 9031585
    Abstract: A method for integrating position information is disclosed. In one embodiment, the position data of an object embedded in a material at a worksite is recorded. The position data is used to update a record showing the position of the object as an embedded object. The position of the embedded object is displayed at a handheld tool.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 29, 2012
    Date of Patent: May 12, 2015
    Assignee: Trimble Navigation Limited
    Inventors: Kent Kahle, Pat Bohle, Reinhard Waibel, Markus Messmer, Oliver Glockner, Angela Beckenbauer, Till Cramer, Andreas Winter
  • Patent number: 9024782
    Abstract: Apparatus and associated methods involve a handheld illuminated module to communicate safety information from a spotter to a driver during a vehicle maneuver. In an illustrative example, the spotter operates the module at a position from which to monitor a region in the vehicle's path. The spotter communicates to the driver that the path is clear by depressing a switch on the module. When depressed, the module switch indicates a “safe” mode that (1) illuminates the module, for example, with a green color, and (2) communicates to a vehicle safety module (VSM) on-board the vehicle. In response to the message, the VSM may transition from a warning mode to a safe mode and emit corresponding visual and/or audio signals to the driver. If the spotter releases the switch, the module illumination changes, and the VSM reverts to warning mode in which it prompts the driver to stop the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 19, 2013
    Date of Patent: May 5, 2015
    Inventor: Jovan Palmieri
  • Patent number: 8976047
    Abstract: A mechanism enabling an electronic dial to operate without generating a click noise. The dial includes a rotational operation member that is turnable. A rotary plate is rigidly secured to the operation member. The rotary plate is formed of a conductive material and has a plurality of detecting portions circumferentially formed thereon. A printed circuit board is disposed between the operation member and the rotary plate. The printed circuit board has a first detection electrode group formed on a surface thereof opposed to the operation member and a second detection electrode group formed on a surface thereof opposed to the rotary plate. A detection circuit detects a touch operation onto the operation member based on an output from the first detection electrode group and detects a turning operation of the operation member based on an output from the second detection electrode group.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 2, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 10, 2015
    Assignee: Canon Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventor: Takamasa Degawa
  • Patent number: 8884775
    Abstract: There are provided with rotary encoders 7a and 7b, each detecting a rotation position of each of rotation driving portions 4a and 4b, deviation calculating means 8 that obtains a deviation Ke between an encoder output value Da outputted from one specific rotary encoder 7a and an encoder output value Db outputted from the other rotary encoder 7b, abnormality determining means 9 that compares the deviation Ke with threshold values Ksf and Kss set in advance and determines that the deviation Ke has become the threshold value Ksf or more and/or the threshold value Kss or more, and abnormality output means 10 that outputs at least a determination result of the abnormality determining means 9.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 26, 2011
    Date of Patent: November 11, 2014
    Assignee: Nissei Plastic Industrial Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Isamu Komamura, Yuuki Ashida
  • Patent number: 8810396
    Abstract: A method for analyzing the condition of a machine having a rotating shaft, includes: receiving a digital input signal (I) having a first plurality (ILENGTH) of sample values, the digital input signal (I) representing mechanical vibrations emanating from rotating the shaft so far as to cause occurrence of a vibration having a period of repetition (TR); dividing the received digital input signal (I) into a first signal portion (2070) and a second signal portion; generating a digital output signal (O) having a second plurality (OLENGTH) of samples, the second plurality (OLENGTH) being a positive integer and lower than the first plurality (ILENGTH); the digital output signal (O) being generated in response to the first signal portion (2070) and the second signal portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 22, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 19, 2014
    Assignee: S.P.M. Instrument AB
    Inventor: Lars-Olov Elis Hedin
  • Patent number: 8730036
    Abstract: Errors in work in a bolt or nut tightening process are reduced to an extremely low level. Further, the process of the work is accurately recorded and quality of production processes is improved. A production management device receives information on a production instruction from a superordinate device, optically displays, according to the information, a socket to be selected for work to tighten a bolt or a nut, automatically recognizes a nut taken out from a socket holder, and alarms when the recognized socket and the displayed socket do not agree.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 8, 2005
    Date of Patent: May 20, 2014
    Assignee: Hino Motors, Ltd.
    Inventors: Shingo Tsujihama, Kazuki Saito
  • Patent number: 8710970
    Abstract: Systems and methods which allow a spotter external to a vehicle to provide signals to a driver of the vehicle in order to facilitate safe backup operations of the vehicle are disclosed. A wireless transmitter, in wireless communication with a receiver positioned within the vehicle, is operated by the spotter. An indicator, also in communication with the receiver, is configured to provide a plurality of audible and/or visible signals perceivable by the driver in response to a wireless signal received by the receiver from the transmitter. The audible and/or visible signals may comprise selected patterned tones and lights which inform the driver whether they should proceed to backup the vehicle or stop the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 2, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 29, 2014
    Assignee: Reverse Control, Inc.
    Inventors: Christopher L. Oelrich, Curtis John Oelrich
  • Patent number: 8508377
    Abstract: A monitoring circuit includes a first detecting unit, a second detecting unit, a comparing unit and an indicating unit. The first detecting unit is configured for detecting a temperature of a vehicular lamp and sending out a first signal. The second detecting unit is configured for detecting the surrounding temperature and sending out a second signal. The comparing unit is configured for comparing the first signal with the second signal, and controls the indicating unit to show the state of the vehicular lamp according to the compared result. When the first signal is higher than the second signal, the comparing unit controls the indicating unit to show that the vehicular lamp is unlit. When the first signal is equal to or lower than the second signal, the comparing unit controls the indicating unit to show that the vehicular lamp is lit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 17, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 13, 2013
    Assignee: Hon Hai Precision Industry Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Ming-Yuan Hsu
  • Patent number: 8456308
    Abstract: An attachment detection method and system. The method includes receiving, by a computer processor of a computing system, attachment data describing different devices associated with and attachable to an electro/mechanical apparatus. The computer processor retrieves first data describing a first attachment device currently attached to the electro/mechanical apparatus and analyzes the attachment data with respect to the first data. In response to the analysis, the computer processor determines specified protective gear required for operation of the electro/mechanical apparatus and the first attachment device. The computer processor generates indication data specifying required usage of the specified protective gear and presents the indication data to a user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 15, 2010
    Date of Patent: June 4, 2013
    Assignee: International Business Machines Corporation
    Inventors: Mark A. Nelson, Kevin H. Peters, Louis R. Ruggiero
  • Patent number: 8427340
    Abstract: Apparatus and associated methods involve a handheld illuminated module to communicate safety information from a spotter to a driver during a vehicle maneuver. In an illustrative example, the spotter operates the module at a position from which to monitor a region in the vehicle's path. The spotter communicates to the driver that the path is clear by depressing a switch on the module. When depressed, the module switch indicates a “safe” mode that (1) illuminates the module, for example, with a green color, and (2) communicates to a vehicle safety module (VSM) on-board the vehicle. In response to the message, the VSM may transition from a warning mode to a safe mode and emit corresponding visual and/or audio signals to the driver. If the spotter releases the switch, the module illumination changes, and the VSM reverts to warning mode in which it prompts the driver to stop the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 8, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 23, 2013
    Assignee: Jovan Palmieri
    Inventor: Jovan Palmieri
  • Publication number: 20130002444
    Abstract: A surface measurement method includes inspecting a plurality of samples of a first irregular workpiece surface in two dimensions, determining, based on the inspections of the samples, a total number of surface peaks on each of the plurality of samples, and deriving a control limit from a statistical variation of the total number of surface peaks on each of the samples. The control limit specifies an out-of-tolerance condition for the total number of surface peaks on a second irregular workpiece surface. The method further includes inspecting a portion of the second irregular workpiece surface in two dimensions, determining, based on the inspection of the portion of the second irregular workpiece surface, a total number of surface peaks on the portion, and comparing the total number of surface peaks on the portion to the control limit to determine whether the second irregular workpiece surface is in the out-of-tolerance condition.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 29, 2011
    Publication date: January 3, 2013
    Inventors: Raymond Bitzel, JR., Johnathan Jones
  • Patent number: 8130087
    Abstract: An imaging module that generates a plurality of display images respectively based on a plurality of pieces of state information different from each other, in accordance with an instruction signal from a controller, and allows the plurality of display images to be displayed simultaneously on a display screen of a liquid crystal display device, and a recording and reproducing unit that performs a capture operation, in accordance with the instruction signal from the controller are provided. The recording and reproducing unit records the display screen on the recording medium as screen data through the capture operation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 16, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 6, 2012
    Assignee: Sharp Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Satoshi Tsubooka, Toshiya Okamoto
  • Patent number: 8102273
    Abstract: A method for guiding a user to connect a peripheral component to a unit of electronic equipment includes the user tapping upon one of a plurality of connector interfaces comprising the unit of electronic equipment. In response to the tapping, the one tapped connector interface is identified and the user is notified of the identity of the one tapped connector interface. The identifying includes detecting the tapping at two or more sensors and processing signals generated by the sensors to detect the one tapped connector interface. The notifying includes articulating an identity of the one tapped connector interface using a voice synthesizer and loudspeaker.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 14, 2008
    Date of Patent: January 24, 2012
    Assignee: International Business Machines Corporation
    Inventors: Tomio Amano, Kimitake Hobo, Makoto Kobayashi, Ai Okada
  • Patent number: 8013720
    Abstract: Systems and methods which allow a spotter external to a vehicle to provide signals to a driver of the vehicle in order to facilitate safe backup operations of the vehicle are disclosed. A wireless transmitter, in wireless communication with a receiver positioned within the vehicle, is operated by the spotter. An indicator, also in communication with the receiver, is configured to provide a plurality of audible and/or visible signals perceivable by the driver in response to a wireless signal received by the receiver from the transmitter. The audible and/or visible signals may comprise selected patterned tones and lights which inform the driver whether they should proceed to backup the vehicle or stop the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 2008
    Date of Patent: September 6, 2011
    Assignee: Reverse Control, Inc.
    Inventors: Christopher L. Oelrich, Curtis John Oelrich
  • Patent number: 7944367
    Abstract: A system includes a comparator that triggers a signal indicating an event occurrence of a moving element of a machine that is sensed by a sensor. The signal is triggered in response to a raw signal from the sensor exceeding a trigger level. Logic calculates a hold off time for re-triggering of the signal, and a timer monitors expiration of the hold off time. A trigger screener monitors amplitude of the raw signal and accepts a triggering of the signal from the comparator in response to expiration of the hold off time and the raw signal exceeding a re-trigger level.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 7, 2008
    Date of Patent: May 17, 2011
    Assignee: General Electric Company
    Inventor: Matthew Allen Nelson
  • Patent number: 7928845
    Abstract: A tool tracking apparatus constructed by a base monitoring station that has electronic circuitry, an LED display panel and an audible alarm; a power supply including a battery power backup for the base monitoring station; a perimeter loop wire electrically connected to the base monitoring system defining an extended area in which at least one tool is protected or can be located; at least one wireless security tag fixedly attached to the at least one tool for rounding a second audible alarm when the locate button on the base monitoring station is pushed or for triggering the first audible alarm when the at least one wireless security tag approaches the perimeter loop wire at a distance less than a preset distance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 23, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 19, 2011
    Inventor: William A. LaRosa
  • Patent number: 7821417
    Abstract: The present invention provides a system and method of detecting the correct and complete loading of parts in one or more assembly fixtures. A missing or incorrectly loaded part results in an airflow from a respective part cavity in an assembly fixture and a switch assembly, which can be located distal from the assembly fixtures, detects the airflow and provides a signal indicating that the fixture is not correctly loaded. Conversely, if each and every part is correctly loaded into the assembly fixtures, no airflow occurs and the switch assembly outputs a signal indicating that the assembly fixtures are correctly loaded and that subsequent manufacturing/assembly operations can be performed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 29, 2007
    Date of Patent: October 26, 2010
    Assignee: Magna International Inc.
    Inventors: Kevin L. D. Burwell, John D. Kennedy
  • Patent number: 7812736
    Abstract: A probe has internal circuitry capable of operating in a plurality of different modes, for example a variety of filter modes and turn off modes. A switch on the probe sends an input to a controller which is arranged to set the mode in response to operation of the switch. The switch may be a push button which is operated externally of the probe by means of an actuator in the form of a plunger. The probe has a workpiece-contacting stylus mounted on a seat from which it is deflectable. The stylus and the seat may comprise the switch. An indicator, e.g., an LED, indicates the mode in response to an output from the controller. The controller outputs a plurality of indications of different modes in a sequence and a mode is selected by operating the switch once the desired mode is indicated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 6, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 12, 2010
    Assignee: Renishaw PLC
    Inventors: David Collingwood, Jonathan Paul Fuge, Geoffrey Salt
  • Patent number: 7719413
    Abstract: An occupant detection system includes occupant sensors on each of plural seats, first resistors in connection to each of the occupant sensors with different resistance values, a power supply line that supplies electric power to the sensors and resistors from a power source by connecting those parts and the power source, and a control unit that detects occupancy of each of the plural seats based on an electric current value of the power supply line. The occupant detection system having the above configuration detects the occupancy of each of the plural seats without increasing the number of input terminals on the control unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 5, 2007
    Date of Patent: May 18, 2010
    Assignee: Denso Corporation
    Inventors: Yukihiro Saitoh, Hiroyuki Itoh
  • Patent number: 7663129
    Abstract: The present invention provides an equipment for measuring the vertical distance or pitch between a plurality of thin substrates inside a container body, including an optical component to transmit a light beam to a thin substrate in the container body and receive light beam reflected from the thin substrate, a scanning device to drive the optical component to move along vertical direction of the thin substrates for measuring the vertical distance or pitch between the plurality of thin substrates in the container body, and a rotation base to carry and rotate the container body to a plurality of angles for the plurality of thin substrates inside the container body to be measured from different angular positions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 16, 2010
    Assignee: Gudeng Precision Industrial Co, Ltd
    Inventor: Pao-Yi Lu
  • Patent number: 7548155
    Abstract: An electronic system that monitors a trailer hitch assembly having a plate hitch with a throat for receiving a kingpin of a trailer and a locking mechanism for locking the kingpin within the throat. The electronic system determines whether the trailer hitch assemblies is properly coupled to the trailer, and comprises a first magnet creating a first magnetic flux, and a first Hall-effect sensor for sensing the position of the kingpin of the trailer relative to the throat of the hitch plate by measuring the first magnetic flux. The system further comprises a control circuit operably coupled with the first Hall-effect sensor in determining whether the first magnetic flux indicates a proper location of the kingpin of the trailer relative to the throat of the hitch plate. The electronic system discriminates between the kingpin and foreign materials, thereby assuring proper locking of the locking mechanism.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 9, 2006
    Date of Patent: June 16, 2009
    Assignee: SAF-Holland, Inc.
    Inventors: Randy L. Schutt, Mark C. Pickhard
  • Patent number: 7548166
    Abstract: The present invention provides a tine-mounted antenna for reading RFID tags in a warehouse environment using RFID technology operating at ultra-high frequencies (UHF) or microwave frequencies and backscatter coupling techniques. At least one ruggedized antenna is mounted on the tine (or other base-level platform) of a lift truck (e.g., a forklift). The antenna can be configured to read RFID tags on pallets that are loaded on the lift truck and communicate the tag information to a warehouse management system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 15, 2006
    Date of Patent: June 16, 2009
    Assignee: EMS Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: William H. Roeder, Donald L. Runyon, Richard W. Sorenson, Jr., Michael Sayre Clott
  • Patent number: 7522066
    Abstract: The claimed subject matter provides industrial automation systems and/or methods that evaluate a proximity to potential hazards. A plurality of sensors can provide redundant detected data. Additionally, a proximity evaluation component can evaluate the detected data, determine a location of at least one of a person and an object, and identify a distance from the location to one or more hazardous zones in a monitored region.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 23, 2006
    Date of Patent: April 21, 2009
    Assignee: Rockwell Automation Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Richard Galera, James E. Dogul, George E. Rollins, Derek W. Jones, George K. Schuster, Suresh R. Nair, Ray C. Delcher
  • Patent number: 7492259
    Abstract: A conveyor system for processing items on which radio frequency identification tags are disposed includes a frame, a conveyor disposed movably on the frame and that conveys items through a path of travel, each item having at least one respective radio frequency identification tag disposed thereon, at least one first antenna, at least one second antenna, a radio frequency receiver, and a processor. The processor is programmed to associate information included in a first signal corresponding to a response from a radio frequency identification tag with a first item if the processor receives the first signal while at least a portion of the first item is within a first area that includes at least part of a second area into which the first antenna radiates radio frequency signals.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 22, 2006
    Date of Patent: February 17, 2009
    Assignee: Accu-Sort Systems, Inc.
    Inventor: James N. Cox
  • Publication number: 20080218368
    Abstract: A position sensing feedback wireless transmission system comprises: a movable carrier, a sensing head, a scale and a display or a controller. When the present position of the movable carrier is required to know, the sensing head can be utilized to transmit the measured information data back to the display or the controller in wireless manner. Since the position sensing feedback wireless transmission system of the present invention adopts the wireless technology, in addition to save the connecting wires cost, it can be relatively simply used in the machine. Consequently, for the design of the mechanism required to measure the long distance, the unit with a plurality of running wires can be dispensed with.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 8, 2007
    Publication date: September 11, 2008
    Inventor: Chi-Yuan CHENG
  • Patent number: 7321299
    Abstract: Method and apparatus for use in setting up workpiece treatment or processing equipment. A disclosed system processes silicon wafers that are treated during processing steps in producing semiconductor integrated circuits. The processing equipment includes a wafer support that supports a wafer in a treatment region during wafer processing. A housing provides a controlled environment within the housing interior for processing the wafer on the wafer support. A mechanical transfer system transports wafers to and from the support. A wafer simulator is used to simulate wafer movement and includes a pressure sensor for monitoring contact between the simulator and the wafer transfer and support equipment. In one illustrated embodiment the wafer simulator is generally circular and includes three equally spaced pressure sensors for monitoring contact with wafer transport and support equipment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 8, 2005
    Date of Patent: January 22, 2008
    Assignee: Axcelis Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Kevin R. Verrier, David K. Bernhardt, Jerry F. Negrotti, Donald N. Polner
  • Patent number: 7255524
    Abstract: A mechanism for mapping the contents of a cassette which is used for delivering substrates to a system for processing semiconductor and similar materials which is independent of load port or loading robot movement. The mapping mechanism includes a U-shaped probe having a photo emitter/receptor mounted on opposing surfaces of its legs. The U-shaped probe is mounted on a carriage for rotation about its longitudinal axis. The carriage is, in turn, mounted on a track for movement over the height of the cassette. The mapping mechanism is mounted on the loading port frame of the processing system adjacent to the load port and is moved into and out of it sensing position by interaction with a cam.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 14, 2003
    Date of Patent: August 14, 2007
    Assignee: Brooks Automation, Inc.
    Inventors: Christopher A. Hofmeister, Ulysses Gilchrist
  • Patent number: 7199723
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to a method and apparatus for installing a utility conveyance. A tractor which includes sensors, a plow locator and a monitor system is presented. The sensors are used to locate markers, which identify the boundaries of a right of way or a preexisting utility conveyance. The plow locator is used to determine the location of a plow relative to a preexisting utility conveyance. Sensing information produced by the sensors and plow location information produced by the plow locator are communicated to the monitor system. A visual representation of the markers and the position of the plow relative to the markers, is displayed on a screen associated with the monitor system. As such, a tractor operator may navigate an engineered path and install a utility conveyance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 3, 2004
    Date of Patent: April 3, 2007
    Assignee: AT&T Corp.
    Inventors: Hossein Eslambolchi, John Sinclair Huffman
  • Patent number: 7162799
    Abstract: A method for notifying installers 14–22 of the existence, type, and location of a portion 26 of an item within an assembly line 10. The notification allows the installers 14–22 to respectively ensure that the components 40 which are needed to be placed upon the portion 26 are available for use by the installer 14–22 in a timely manner.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 25, 2005
    Date of Patent: January 16, 2007
    Assignee: Ford Motor Company
    Inventors: Diane E. Moore, John J. Lubash
  • Patent number: 7154406
    Abstract: A power tool includes a leveling mechanism that determines horizontal or vertical planes of the power tool. The leveling mechanism has a housing with a cavity in the housing. A rotating member is in the housing. The rotating member moves in the cavity such that the rotating members seeks an equilibrium position. The equilibrium position corresponds to a horizontal or vertical plane. Electrical contacts are coupled with the rotating member such that the electrical contacts only complete an electrical circuit when the rotating member is in the equilibrium position. An indicator is electrically coupled with the electrical contacts to indicate to the user when the mechanism is in an equilibrium position. A power source is coupled with the electrical contacts and the indicator to energize the indicator when the circuit is complete.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 10, 2000
    Date of Patent: December 26, 2006
    Assignee: Black & Decker Inc.
    Inventor: Alfred H. Judge
  • Patent number: 7135984
    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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 6, 2004
    Date of Patent: November 14, 2006
    Assignee: Fertigungstechnik Weissenfels GmbH
    Inventors: Heinrich Bercher, Luigi Naturale, Wolfgang Huch
  • Patent number: 7081825
    Abstract: A method and a device for measuring at least one test surface and a reference test surface having an interference measuring probe which emits a first measuring beam which is aligned with respect to the reference test surface, are described. The measuring probe emits at least one second measuring beam, which is aligned with respect to at least the at least one test surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 20, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 25, 2006
    Inventors: Dominique Breider, Marc-Henri Duvoisin, Dominique Marchal, Vincent Thominet
  • Patent number: 7038591
    Abstract: A workpiece testing and marking system includes an apparatus for testing a workpiece and for selectively generating a signal that is representative of a result of the test. The system also includes a marker that is adapted to provide a visual indication on the workpiece. A receptacle is provided for selectively supporting the marker. The receptacle includes a locking mechanism for selectively preventing removal of the marker from the receptacle. A controller is responsive to the test result signal for controlling the operation of locking mechanism. The locking mechanism can include a sensor for generating a signal to the controller when the marker is disposed within the receptacle. If the length of time that the marker is removed from the bore exceeds a predetermined maximum, then the controller can generate a fault or alarm signal to the operator of the testing apparatus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 21, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 2, 2006
    Inventor: James A. Paul
  • Patent number: 6967586
    Abstract: A bearing test method and a bearing test device are provided for bearings in which a non-contact state is maintained between a shaft element and a bearing element in a normal rotation state. In addition, a motor bearing monitoring device is provided to detect an abnormality in a motor or that a motor's life is near its end, where the motor utilizes the bearing. Furthermore, a storage device such as a hard disk drive equipped with the motor monitoring device is provided. For a bearing that can retain a shaft element and a bearing element coaxially positioned in a non-contact state when the number of revolutions exceeds a predetermined number of relative revolutions, a bearing test method is provided to determine whether the shaft element and the bearing element are in a contact rotation state.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 16, 2001
    Date of Patent: November 22, 2005
    Assignee: Sankyo Seiki Mfg. Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Takayuki Narita, Haruhiro Tsuneta
  • Patent number: 6950033
    Abstract: A system for determining the position of a bolt in a door including a locking mechanism for moving the bolt between a first locked position wherein the door is secured in position within a door frame and a second unlocked position wherein the door is moveable within the door frame. The position of the bolt is determined by a determining means and a signal indicative of the position of the bolt is generated. A transmitter is connected to the determining means and transmits a signal to a means for indicating to a user the position of the bolt. The indicating means includes a processor and receiver and wherein the transmitter transmits the signals generated by the determining means and the receiver receives the signal and provides the signal to the processor for determining the position of the bolt and generating a signal indicative of the determination.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 22, 2003
    Date of Patent: September 27, 2005
    Inventor: Louis N Guyre
  • Patent number: 6922153
    Abstract: A detection system for detecting a dangerous condition for an operator using a power tool of the type which has an exposed blade relative to a work surface and a protection system for minimizing, if not eliminating the possibility of a user being injured by contacting the blade. In one preferred embodiment of the present invention, a proximity detection system is capable of detecting the presence of a user near the blade of a table saw and a protection system that can either retract the blade below the work surface of the table saw or terminate the drive torque to the blade which can result in rapid stopping of the saw blade by a work piece that is being cut.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 13, 2003
    Date of Patent: July 26, 2005
    Assignee: Credo Technology Corporation
    Inventors: Wojciech T. Pierga, Thomas R. Siwek, Ahmad R. Shishegar
  • Patent number: 6882283
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to a method and apparatus for installing a utility conveyance. A tractor which includes sensors, a plow locator and a monitor system is presented. The sensors are used to locate demarcation points, which identify the boundaries of a right way or a preexisting utility conveyance. The plow locator is used to determine the location of a plow relative to a preexisting utility conveyance. Sensing information produced by the sensors and plow location information produced by the plow locator are communicated to the monitor system. A visual representation of the demarcation points and the position of the plow relative to the demarcation points is displayed on a screen associated with the monitor system. As such, a tractor operator may navigate an engineered path and install a utility conveyance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 29, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 19, 2005
    Assignee: AT&T Corp.
    Inventors: Hossein Eslambolchi, John Sinclair Huffman
  • Patent number: 6853307
    Abstract: A high-voltage-proximity warning system has a local panel (1) for being positioned in or about a cab (2) of heavy equipment or other vehicle (5), a remote panel (3) in predetermined electrical communication with the local panel and one or more proximity antennas (4) for being positioned selectively on the vehicle in predetermined electrical communication with the local panel. The local panel is adapted to be push-button operable conveniently by an operator with gloved hands in a position where it is readily visible and easily connectable electrically to the remote panel and to the one or more proximity antennas. The remote panel is adapted to be positioned on or off of the vehicle where it can be protected for supportive operation and accessed for plural electrical connection to electrical devices that can include an electrical-source terminal (11), to speakers, and to warning and alarm communication devices (50).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 5, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 8, 2005
    Inventor: Irvin H. Nickerson
  • Publication number: 20040226800
    Abstract: A detection system for detecting a dangerous condition for an operator using a power tool of the type which has an exposed blade relative to a work surface and a protection system for minimizing, if not eliminating the possibility of a user being injured by contacting the blade. In one preferred embodiment of the present invention, a proximity detection system is capable of detecting the presence of a user near the blade of a table saw and a protection system that can either retract the blade below the work surface of the table saw or terminate the drive torque to the blade which can result in rapid stopping of the saw blade by a work piece that is being cut.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 13, 2003
    Publication date: November 18, 2004
    Applicant: Credo Technology Corporation.
    Inventors: Wojciech T. Pierga, Thomas R. Siwek, Ahmad R. Shishegar
  • Patent number: 6812850
    Abstract: The present invention has an object to provide a measuring apparatus which can surely prevent the collision of a moving member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 23, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 2, 2004
    Assignee: Mitutoyo Corporation
    Inventors: Sadayuki Matsumiya, Masanori Arai
  • Patent number: 6804896
    Abstract: An embodiment of an electronic measuring device includes a housing having an exterior surface configured and arranged to be removably secured within a support member. An electrically conductive probe is coupled to the housing and is movable between a position in contact with a workpiece and a position out of contact with the workpiece. A circuit electrically couples an indicator and a power source to the probe such that when the probe is out of contact with the workpiece, the circuit is open and no power is supplied from the power source to the indicator and such that when the probe contacts the workpiece, the circuit closes to supply power from the power source to the indicator to send a signal to the operator of the measuring device that the probe is in contact with the workpiece.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 20, 2002
    Date of Patent: October 19, 2004
    Assignee: Magna International Inc.
    Inventors: Bruno W. Gass, Manuel L. Avelar
  • Patent number: 6798347
    Abstract: A sensor head component is configurable as an accessory for performing various functions on other sensor head components interconnected in a sensor head of a monitoring tool assembly. Certain sensor head components may benefit from the performance of such functions as removable of debris from particular surfaces as well as calibration processes. To perform these functions, an accessory is configurable to include a body portion with a motor positioned therein. Connectable to the motor may be an accessory arm which includes at least one element connected thereto for performing the particular function. When activated, the motor manipulates the accessory arm such that the element moves within a target area and performs the particular function upon at least one of the sensor head components.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 29, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 28, 2004
    Assignee: In-Situ, Inc.
    Inventors: Kent D. Henry, Christopher J. McKee
  • Patent number: 6784800
    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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 19, 2001
    Date of Patent: August 31, 2004
    Assignee: Signal Tech
    Inventor: Jeffery R. Orzechowski
  • Patent number: 6778079
    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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 16, 2001
    Date of Patent: August 17, 2004
    Assignee: Banner Engineering
    Inventor: Dane Weber
  • Publication number: 20040113806
    Abstract: In the process of drilling a concrete in a buildings many times accidentally can be damage existing electrical conduit and the wires inside or plumbing pipes. All these damages can be avoided with a device which can indicate a grounded metal. Grounded metal is any metal object which is grounded to the existing electrical system in the building, such a conduit, plumbing pipes, supporting frames or metal beam.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 9, 2003
    Publication date: June 17, 2004
    Inventor: Yulian Neykov
  • Patent number: 6670889
    Abstract: A mechanical transmission system for transmitting a wafer to a semiconductor manufacturing machine and being able to break off automatically in response to an earthquake via receiving a control signal generated by an earthquake detecting device is provided. The system includes a mechanical transmission device for transmitting the wafer to the semiconductor manufacturing machine, a warning device for generating a warning signal in response to the control signal, and a control circuit electrically coupling to the mechanical transmission device and breaking off in response to the control signal for avoiding the damage of the mechanical transmission device or the semiconductor-manufacturing machine caused by the earthquake.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 4, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 30, 2003
    Assignee: Winbond Electronics Corp.
    Inventors: Yi-Chang Luan, Tsun-Hu Chiu, Chu-Long Hsueh
  • Patent number: 6636153
    Abstract: A sensor system for determining acceptable magnetization between a magnetic clamp and a mold patent for a quick mold change system on an injection molding machine includes secondary sensing coils magnetically coupled with a switchable magnet in the clamp effecting a voltage output in accordance with magnetic flux conditions between the magnets and the mold and providing a control signal based on changes in said flux condition for controlling activity of said workpiece in accordance therewith.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 26, 2001
    Date of Patent: October 21, 2003
    Inventors: Simon C. Barton, Mark Johnson