Abstract: A method enables the resilience of a plurality of spring washers stacked in a series arrangement to be determined. The method comprises determining the potential energy for the series arrangement by integrating the product of the axial load applied to the series arrangement, the displacement of the series arrangement, and the number of spring washers stacked in the series arrangement, and solving at least two non-linear equations to determine the resilience of the spring washers stacked in the series arrangement.

Abstract: Shaped composite structures which are strong, stiff and hard and, at the same time, have high toughness, comprise a matrix, for example a cement or ceramics based matrix, and embedded therein a plurality of plate shaped or at least 60 mm thick elongated reinforcement components, the reinforcement components having an at least 1.5 times higher tensile strength than the matrix, the minimum volume per cent concentration of the reinforcement components being related in the manner described in the specification to their tensile strength, and (in the case of elongated reinforcement components) also their thickness and to the compressive strength and modulus of elasticity and modulus of elasticity of the matrix. Methods for modelling and designing such structures are also disclosed, as are methods for establishing the structure from smaller matrix building blocks which may be pre-fabricated and which are arranged around prearranged reinforcement bodies and then fixed to each other and to the reinforcement.

Abstract: A non-invasive online system for continuous measurements of phase levels in a converter or pyrometallurgical furnace in smelting and conversion processes, consisting in a electrical signal generator, transducers that convert said electrical signals in mechanical waves placed on the outer end of air blowing tuyeres, coupling means between said system and the shell of the converter, transducers placed in the direction of the axis orthogonal to the phases plane for applying mechanical waves that travel in a longitudinal direction into the converter, a mechanical waves sensor placed around the external wall of the shell of the converter that receives the reflected signal, a crystal local oscillator, means for the preamplification of the signal, an analogous/digital interface, a means for data acquisition, a means for processing the signals so as to determine the power of the reflected signal and the propagation time of the signal between the moment it is emitted by the transducer and the moment in which the refle

Abstract: A non-invasive online system for discrete measurements of phase levels in a converter or pyrometallurgical furnace in smelting and conversion processes, consisting in a electrical signal generator, transducers that convert said electrical signals in mechanical waves placed on the outer end of air blowing tuyeres, coupling means between said system and the shell of the converter, means for air blowing tuyeres placed forming a 180° angle in the direction of the entrance of the airflow, a resonant chamber that envelopes the tuyeres means, a transducer coupled to said resonant chamber and placed in the direction of the cross axis or longitudinal axis of the phases plane and facing at the different limiting zones between the different phases present inside the converter, so as to apply mechanical waves that have a great number of components of different amplitudes that with the air flow, mechanical waves sensors placed around the external wall of the shell of the converter in charge of receiving the reflected

Abstract: A system for monitoring and protection machine systems includes multiple monitoring modules positioned proximate to points of interest in the machine system where dynamic operating conditions are monitored. The monitoring modules, which may communicate with one another via an open industrial data exchange protocol, include user-configurable voting logic for controlling or protecting the machine system based upon the monitored conditions. The logic of the modules is interdependent such that certain of the responses will or will not be taken unless combined conditions occur as defined by the voting logic of multiple modules.

Abstract: A monitoring and protection technique for machine systems includes providing multiple processors within a monitoring module. A first processor generally performs management functions, such as data communications control, memory management, and so forth. A second processor performs complex calculations that provide data to the first processor. The module may be specifically adapted to applications, such as vibration monitoring, in which case the second processor may perform analysis of received signals to derive vibrational data that forms the basis for decisions for energizing or de-energizing relay circuitry used to control the machine system or an alarm.

Abstract: A non-invasive online system for discrete measurements of phase levels in a converter or pyrometallurgical furnace in smelting and conversion processes, consisting in a electrical signal generator, transducers that convert said electrical signals in mechanical waves placed on the outer end of air blowing tuyeres, coupling means between said system and the shell of the converter, means for air blowing tuyeres placed forming a 180° angle in the direction of the entrance of the airflow, a transducer placed transversally to said air blowing tuyere, placed in the direction of the cross axis or longitudinal axis of the phases plane and facing at least one of the limiting zones between the different phases present inside the converter, so as to apply mechanical waves that travel in a transversal direction with the air flow into the converter, mechanical waves sensors placed around the external wall of the shell of the converter in charge of receiving the reflected signal, means for the preamplification of the si

Abstract: A monitoring and protection system includes a plurality of monitoring modules that are positioned proximate to points of interest in a machine system where dynamic operating conditions are to be monitored. The monitoring modules at individual locations communicate with one another via an open industrial data exchange protocol. The groups of modules may also communicate via the same protocol, creating a flexible and expandable system that accommodates a wide range of modules and that avoids the need for conventional backplane architecture. The groups also communicate with remote equipment via a different standard data exchange protocol, such as via a gateway associated with each of the monitoring module groups.

Abstract: In a network print environment in which printers of various residual amount outputting methods exist mixedly, in an information processing apparatus for monitoring a supplement of consumables which are used in the printer which can communicate via a communication line in order to recognize that consumables have properly and newly been supplemented in each printer, there is provided a mechanism having a discriminating unit for discriminating whether the consumables have newly been supplemented into the printer or not by a discriminating method according to the residual amount outputting method of the consumables of the printer.

Abstract: A foreign-matter detector for detecting foreign matter contained in an article P transported between a transmitter (17) and a receiver (18). The detector (1) includes a signal extractor (2) for extracting a signal (e) having a predetermined phase difference relative to a transmitted signal (a) from the transmitter (17), based on a phase of the transmitted signal (a) from the transmitter (17) and the received signal (b) from the receiver (18), a specific value setting unit (25) for setting, through an external input operation, a specific value for the level of the extracted signal (e) which is outputted from the signal extractor (2) and which is attributable to the article (P) free from foreign matter to be detected, and a level adjusting circuit (24) for adjusting the signal extractor (2) or the receiver (18) to cause the level of the extracted signal (e) attributable to the article itself to assume the specific value inputted.

Abstract: The present invention discloses a testing system and a testing method for a structure which tests a structure made of a test piece structure and a numerical model virtually connected to the structure. A simulated structure including a frame, an actuator and a reaction force measuring device is mounted on a foundation on which a shaking table is also mounted. Only the test piece structure is mounted on the shaking table. The motion of the shaking table 5 which is generated at the time of shaking the test piece structure using the shaking table and the actuator is measured by a shaking table motion measuring device, while the reaction force generated by the test piece structure is measured by a reaction force measuring device. Using these measured values and the numerical model stored in a digital computer, the motion of the test piece structure after a predetermined period for the motion of the simulated structure is calculated.

Abstract: A device used for measuring the angle of torque beyond a specific reference point. The device is comprised of a tool that applies torque to a fastener, an adapter that is attached to the fastener to transfer the torque from the tool, and an apparatus that connects a first end to the tool and a second end to the adapter. The apparatus comprises an angle selector that is adjustable to the desired torque angle, an angle rate sensor that measures the speed and direction of the torque applied, a processor which calculates the current angle from the rate sensor measurements, a zero point indicator that serves as the basis point for the processor to calculate the selected angle, and an angle indicator that alerts as to the torque angle calculated by the processor.

Abstract: Disclosed is a system for measuring mechanical properties of a deformable material specimen. The system includes a first gripping device for removably securing a first end of the specimen, a second gripping device for removably securing a second end of the specimen and an image acquisition device for producing image data reflective of a specified area of the specimen. Either the first gripping device or the second gripping device is movable in a first direction and in communication with the displacement measurement mechanism, which produces displacement data. The first gripping device or the second gripping device is also in communication with the load measurement mechanism for producing load data. Also disclosed is a method for measuring the mechanical properties of a deformable material specimen.

Abstract: An absolute position detector that interprets, rather than avoids, abnormal sensory states. Different combinations of sensors in an array are activated as a marker travels along a path. The current activation/deactivation state of the array is converted into a digital signal that is reliably indicative of the current absolute position of the marker along the path. In a preferred embodiment, a dynamic magnetic field is provided whose current condition represents the current absolute position of a moving marker. As the marker moves, the condition of the field changes to activate different groups of Hall Effect devices in an array. The activated groups may comprise one or more Hall Effect devices in the array, depending on the condition of the field as created by the position of the marker. The current activation/deactivation state of the array is then converted, advantageously via truth table logic, into a digital signal representative of the current position of the marker.

Abstract: Power tools are taught that may include, for example, means for detecting impact sounds generated, e.g. by a hammer strikes an anvil or by oil pulse from an oil unit. The detecting means may include a receiver (30) adapted to selectively convert sound within a narrow frequency range into electric signals. Preferably, the impact sounds fall within the narrow frequency range of the receiver (30). A processor 38 may be utilized to control the motor (22) in order to stop the rotation of the hammer when a pre-determined number of impact sounds has been detected by the detecting means. In addition or in the alternative, various means for setting various operating conditions are taught, including dials 34, sound sensors 30, keypads and remote control devices 250. Further, means for performing maintenance condition status checks are taught.

Abstract: A main computer for performing numerical simulation and a sub-computer for controlling each shaking machine are provided. Data transfer between the main computer and sub-computer is performed by communications. The main computer is provided with a model substituting function of modeling a specimen to be shaken, a parameter modification function of sequentially modifying parameters of a model in accordance with the vibration test result, and an abnormality inspection function of judging an abnormality of each shaking system and if an abnormality is detected, substituting the measured value of a reaction force with an output of the model substituting function. It is possible to make an experiment of evaluating the strength and reliability of a massive structure, for example, relative to an earthquake and to make a vibration test at a high precision and with an economical cost.

Abstract: The present invention is configured to determine the weight of a payload of a mobile machine. When the machine is in motion, a force characteristic of the machine is compared with a force characteristic threshold, or range. The payload determination is based upon the force characteristic comparison, and the pressures sensed in at least one of the struts.

Abstract: The invention is directed to a system and method for non-invasive pipe inspection. According to one embodiment, the system includes a processor, an analyzer, and a wave launcher. The wave launcher is adapted to transmit an input wideband waveform having a selected input energy into the pipe along a longitudinal axis, and to receive from the pipe a reflected component of the input waveform having a reflected energy. The analyzer is adapted to generate the input waveform, and to receive the reflected component of the input waveform from the wave launcher. The processor is adapted to compare the input waveform with the reflected component of the input waveform to determine characteristics.

Abstract: An apparatus is described for detecting the early signs of cycle-induced fatigue and thereby predicting failure of the rotating disk in turbo-machinery. It identifies asymmetrical growth of hub-blade diameter as a predictor of incipient crack growth. Tip measurements are processed through specialized algorithms to detect such asymmetry during operation, providing a real-time, non-destructive method of prediction. The sensors can be housed within the machinery case, and are capable of operating in harsh environments while maintaining adequate stand-off distance, making the entire apparatus robust enough for conditions in high-speed turbo-machinery.

Abstract: A fiber orientation verification system includes a sensor and an indicator to identify the fiber orientation within each sequentially laid composite material layer. The indicator projects visible indicator lines upon the lay-up surface which are indicative of a desired orientation for the composite material layer. The sensor and the indicator communicate with a computer module which contains a database including a detailed sequence to assure that each layer is proper placed. The operator is thereby provided with an exact location to lay-up each composite material layer and the proper fiber orientation of that layer. Continued verification is thus provided to the operator.

Abstract: A calibration device for a parallel kinematic manipulator having a base unit and a manipulator platform movable with respect thereto, the manipulator platform being connected to the base unit via a plurality of joints and a plurality of variable length actuators. The calibration device for measuring n deviations in order to determine m unknowns includes a test workpiece that is mountable in a definite spatial position with respect to the base unit and has I=m/n measuring mandrels. The calibration device also has a probing unit attached to the manipulator platform, and including n probing subsystems, the probing subsystems each including a distance measuring device for measuring the spatial position and spatial orientation of the measuring mandrels on the test workpiece.

Abstract: A process and apparatus for selecting or designing a product, such as a muffler, having a sound output which is less stressful or more pleasing. The process includes the steps of sensing at least one physiological response of a subject (21) while the subject listens to an initial sound output, repeating the sensing step for the new sound output, comparing the physiological responses, and selecting the sound output for use in selecting or designing the product which output produces the physiological response that is the least stressful or most pleasing to the subject. The apparatus includes an audio playback device (15), a sound recording (16) of the initial sound, a sound recording (16) of the new sound, and physiological monitoring apparatus (17) suitable for attachment to and monitoring of the physiological responses of the test subject (21) to the playback of the sound recordings.

Abstract: An improved parking lot pavement analysis system is described that analyzes field survey data and generates a report which provides the necessary information to make the most cost-effective maintenance and repair decisions for commercial and residential parking lots. The pavement analysis system can be implemented on an existing PC computer to provide a user-friendly way of standardizing and guiding the visual survey and pavement sampling to determine existing conditions. The pavement analysis system guides entry of data indicating the pavement's existing condition, and then calculates and recommends maintenance and repair options. The calculations are based on an expert diagnostic system analysis which substantially reduces the requirement for expert interpretation. A complete life cycle cost analysis is performed, and this allows the user to make an informed decision about what type repairs are most appropriate for a particular situation.

Abstract: A tool management method, when performing machining using a Numerical Control (NC) program, searches for cutting tool status information obtained as a result of having performed a machining simulation based on tool information, cutting condition information and the NC program, and on the other hand, actually measures tool wear at the time of actual cutting, estimates the tool wear from each of the items of information described above and judges permission to use a tool.

Abstract: Disclosed is an airconditioner monitoring system in which a monitoring unit (11) sends, upon receipt of a malfunction code from an airconditioner (12), the malfunction code to a database server (41) via a LAN (2) and via the Internet (3). The database server (41) checks the received malfunction code against a database (41a) and sends information about the malfunction to the monitoring unit (11). The monitoring unit (11) displays the received malfunction information.

Abstract: A paper quality determining sensor and a faulty paper sorting device capable of detecting reaction forces of paper sheets themselves which vary according to paper quality using a plurality of rollers so as to detect the stiffness (rigidity) of paper sheets accurately without being affected by thicknesses of the paper sheets.

Abstract: This invention relates to a method on a truck for railway vehicles to measure the curvature of a track and a method for configuring the steering orientation of an axle of a rail truck as a function of the curvature of the track, which axle is rotationally fastened to a truck frame. The curvature of the track is determined by dividing a yaw rate by a translation rate, and the wheels are oriented on the basis of a setpoint steering angle (&ggr;setpoint) which is calculated by multiplying the track curvature (&khgr;) by one-half the distance between the two axles of the truck.

Abstract: An intelligent power tool system for a manufacturing process using one or more sensors that provide information for controlling, monitoring and/or evaluating the process. The one or more sensors may sense a vibratory signature and/or electrical current during the process and supply information, such as a data signal, to a software program or other processor for processing. For example, using a database of stored data regarding vibratory signatures and/or electrical currents for one or more power tool devices used in the manufacturing process, the information may be compared and analyzed to determine if it is within a specified range. Results of such analysis may be transmitted to an operator and/or graphically displayed. The results and/or display may instruct the operator to continue with the manufacturing process or inspect the process step just completed for possible error.

Abstract: An apparatus measures residual stress in a sample under test by measuring the penetration of an indenter on a unprocessed sample under test, and after processing of the sample under test, measuring again the penetration of the indenter on the processed sample under test, and deriving from the two penetration measurements the residual stress in a sample under test. The apparatus and method of the preferred embodiments are especially useful in determining residual stress in a printed wiring board. In this manner a direct measurement of residual stress is possible without destroying the printed wiring board.

Abstract: A method and apparatus are described for remote semiconductor microscopy whereby video signals are broadcast from one or more microscopes to remote viewers. A live video signal is broadcast from the microscope over a network to remote personal computers located in the offices of process engineers. The office-based process engineers are provided real-time, or substantially real-time, views of a wafer, including peripheral views of the wafer outside cell array boundaries. The process engineer, in his office, can direct a technician, operating the microscope in the clean room complex, to display a desired cell region-of-interest with the microscope. As a result, the process engineers can more efficiently collaborate to solve process problems or even develop new process techniques.

Abstract: The position sensor has a sensor element and a transmitter part which can be displaced between a first end position and a second end position. The measurement signal passes through an extreme value between the first and the second end positions. The actual values of the measurement signal in the first and second end position are determined. The extreme value of the measurement signal between the first and second end position is also determined. The position is determined in dependence on the current actual value of the measurement signal, the extreme value, and the actual values in the first and second end positions.

Abstract: A process for analyzing a signal which composed of a sequence of discrete amplitude values to which portions with different phase angle contribute. Here, a reshaped signal is formed in which the sequence of amplitude values is changed such that the amplitude values, or instead of them approximation values which have been brought near the amplitude values, follow one another in ascending or descending sequences according to their size.

Abstract: The present invention is adapted to provide a method for determining the torque of a driveshaft. In the preferred embodiment a drivetrain includes a front and a rear drivetrain. The drivetrain is also connected to an engine, torque converter, front and rear axle and a transmission. In one embodiment, the ability to determine the transmission output torque for an earth moving machine includes determining an output torque of the converter and a gear reduction of the engine, and then responsively determining the front and rear driveshaft torque in response to the converter output torque and the engine gear reduction. The driveshaft torque calculations may be performed while the earth moving machine is operating. The resulting front and rear driveshaft torque calculations may be used to determine an axle damage index, or axle life calculations.

Abstract: The present invention provides a manufacturing environment (210) for a wafer fab, and an SPDA data environment (212) for acquiring processing parameters and metrology data of production runs. A computation environment (214) processes the SPDA data to prepare delta graphs (536, 540 and 542) of the present invention. These delta graphs are then analyzed in an analysis environment (216). An MES environment (218) evaluates the analysis and executes a process intervention if the results of the analysis indicate processing or product quality problems in the process run of the manufacturing environment (210). Additionally, the invention provides for SPDA delta graphs of SPC control charts as well as SPC techniques utilizing process control limits based on delta graphs to identify, analyze and trouble-shoot semiconductor processing problems, in order to improve equipment reliability and wafer yield.

Abstract: A computer is provided that monitors one or more printers over a network in order to determine when new components in each of the printers should be replaced. Each time a printer prints a document, the printer sends a signal to the computer. The computer responds by querying the printer to determine if a components in the printer should be replaced. In addition, each printer is configured to transmit a message to the printer indicating that the component should be replaced. If the computer determines that a component should be replaced, the computer can automatically transmit an order for a new component to a vendor.

Abstract: An intelligent assembly system for a manufacturing process using one or more sensors that provide information for controlling, monitoring and/or evaluating the process. One or more sensors may be mounted on a module assembly and/or on a powered tool device. The one or more sensors may sense a vibratory signature and/or electrical current during the process and supply information, such as a data signal, to a software program or other processor for processing. For example, using a database of stored data regarding vibratory signatures and/or electrical currents for one or more power tool devices used in the manufacturing process, the information may be compared and analyzed to determine if it is within a specified range. Results of such analysis may be transmitted to an operator and/or graphically displayed. The results and/or display may instruct the operator to continue with the manufacturing process or inspect the process step just completed for possible error.

Abstract: A method for testing the stability of vertically braced masts wherein the relevant mast is subjected to the load of a bending force starting from a defined initial value, and increasing to a maximum pre-set testing force above its bracing, the mast thereby being laterally displaced. The load is then removed from the mast and is subjected to a restoring force which reduces to zero. The mast is evaluated in conjunction with the load removal procedure to determine damage to the mast and/or its bracing. The mast is subjected to an additional bending force in the opposite direction of the first bending force, and the load is once again removed from the mast in a second test procedure. A possible remaining displacement of the mast/bracing system is evaluated in conjunction with the highest mast loads to determine the type of possible damage to the mast.

Abstract: A life estimation device which numerically measures the damage to a machine such as an engine accurately to estimate, the life of the machine accurately without requiring skill. A load map (B) of the two-dimensional distribution of the operation parameters of an engine is made. In accordance with the weighted integration time &agr;i·ki at each level (Bi) of the load map (B), the actual damage &dgr;=&Sgr;&agr;i·ki to the engine for a certain lapse of time &tgr; is calculated. By operating the engine beforehand, a correspondence relation L2 between the magnitude of the damage &dgr; and the life H is predetermined. The life H1 corresponding to the calculated actual damage &dgr;1 is determined in accordance with the predetermined correspondence relation L2 and the H1 is outputted as the estimated life of the engine.

Abstract: Accurate characterization of microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) geometry is critical for device design and simulation, for material property extraction, and for post-fabrication trimming. According to the present embodiment, a method for characterizing parameters describing MEMS structures resulting from the fabrication process or process variations is presented. According to the prefered embodiment, experimentally obtained natural frequencies are compared with numerical simulations to identify unknown values of structural parameters or parameter variations. Further, the prefered embodiment teaches how electrostatically-driven laterally resonant comb-drive MEMS test structures with prescribed changes in spring width are used to characterize systematic variations in process offsets and sidewall angles. The disclosed technique is both in-situ and non-destructive.

Abstract: A programmable device which produces a plurality of outputs is connected to a controller having less input ports than there are outputs to be received by the controller. To overcome this problem the controller is programmed to send different signals to the device, one at a time, upon receipt of a particular one of which, the device sends back a corresponding one of its outputs. In the specific example described the signals are different sequences of timing pulses.

Abstract: A method for detecting a phase difference between first and second input signals is provided. The method includes modulating a duty cycle of first and second intermediate signals from a first duty cycle based on the phase difference between the first and second input signals. The method further includes creating a differential output signal based on the modulated duty cycles of the first and second intermediate signals that is related to the phase difference between the first and second input signals.

Abstract: A monitoring procedure and a monitoring installation for machine tools with a motor-driven work spindle and a separate protection device. The actual mass inertia moment of a tool fitted into the work spindle is determined by measurement and compared with a mass inertia moment calculated from the data of the tool. In addition, a predetermined parameter of a tool fitted into the work spindle is compared with that of the maximum parameter for the tool which is dependent on the strength of the protection device. The work spindle will be driven at the predetermined desired speed of rotation only if the actual mass inertia moment agrees with the calculated mass inertia moment and the predetermined parameter is smaller than or equal to the maximum parameter predetermined by the strength of the protection device.

Abstract: When obtaining load displaying calibration data, first, a reference die height position (a) where a load (F) of a mechanical press (1) comes to minimum load value (Fa) is sought as well as a reference die height position (f) where the load (F) comes to maximum load value (Ff). Then a plurality of intermediate die height positions (b . . . e) are selected between these reference die height positions (a) and (f). Subsequently, a load is imposed on the mechanical press (1) at each of the die height positions (a . . . f) and a pressure sensor (33) senses peak oil pressures (Pa . . . Pf) corresponding to the respective die height positions (a . . . f). Thereafter, relative relationships between load values (Fa . . . Ff) corresponding to the die height positions (a . . . f) and the peak oil pressures (Pa . . . Pf) are obtained as a characteristic curve (B).

Abstract: An intelligent assembly system for a manufacturing process using one or more sensors that provide information for controlling, monitoring and/or evaluating the process. One or more sensors may be mounted on a module assembly and/or on a powered tool device. The one or more sensors may sense a vibratory signature and/or electrical current during the process and supply information, such as a data signal, to a software program or other processor for processing. For example, using a database of stored data regarding vibratory signatures and/or electrical currents for one or more power tool devices used in the manufacturing process, the information may be compared and analyzed to determine if it is within a specified range. Results of such analysis may be transmitted to an operator and/or graphically displayed. The results and/or display may instruct the operator to continue with the manufacturing process or inspect the process step just completed for possible error.

Abstract: A method for selecting a suitable workpiece having a material composition and a thickness for forming an article. The method calculates expected strain resulting from straight bends, stretch flanges, and shrink flanges utilizing customized strain correlations developed from strain test data of work piece samples. The calculated straight bend strain and stretch flange strain from multiple bends are then compared with the material yield strain to determine workpiece suitability. The shrink flange strain is compared with the material buckle stain to determine workpiece suitability. The method also calculates a spring back deformation for determining suitability of the workpiece and the press forming procedures.

Abstract: A vehicle hood operating system has a control unit for controlling an actuator which is designed to lift a hood over a vehicle when an obstacle with which the vehicle has collided is an object to be protected. The control unit controls the actuator such that it lifts the hood when the velocity of the vehicle is equal to, or higher than, a predetermined value at the time of its collision, while at the same time, the speed of deformation caused to a bumper by the collision is equal to, or higher than, its threshold value varying with the vehicle velocity. When the vehicle velocity is lower than the predetermined value, the object to be protected is unlikely to strike against the hood. As the threshold value varies with the vehicle velocity, it is possible to distinguish quickly and accurately if the obstacle is an object to be protected, or not.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method for evaluating the condition of a machine (100) with a measuring point (90), which method is performed by a movable analysis apparatus (30). The method comprises the steps of producing a condition value, by means of measuring at the measuring point, which condition value is dependent on the actual condition of the machine, and storing the condition value in a writable information carrier (120) which is placed by, or in the vicinity of, the measuring point (90) so that the condition value subsequently can be used as a reference condition value. The invention further relates to an apparatus for performing the method and a device for cooperating with the analysis apparatus and for mounting by a measuring point on the machine (100).

Abstract: The present invention is a method and apparatus for determining whether the sensors or the used in a device monitoring system are properly functioning before rendering a determination as to a defect within the device itself. As a result, maintenance costs may be reduced while limiting the number of false indications of failure, thereby increasing the reliability of the monitoring system.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method for local processing of casting data arising from measurement data obtained from a continuous casting chill (1) by means of sensors (10). Said data processing is carried out using a process control computer (11) pertaining to the control system of the continuous casting installation. The inventive method increases the efficiency of the measuring section and simplifies the device whereby the measurement and control data is immediately collected from the continuous casting chill (1) in cold field bus modules (2), converted to bus signals in a bus line (3), stored at least in the control system of the continuous casting installation, and/or processed.

Abstract: A plurality of cam sensors are provided for outputting cylinder judgment signals and the output number of cylinder judgment signals between reference crank angle positions are counted for each cam sensor, to thereby perform cylinder judgment based on combination of the output number of the counted cylinder judgment signals.