Mechanical Patents (Class 703/7)
  • Patent number: 7987079
    Abstract: A facility for determining the 3-dimensional location and orientation of a subject surface in a distinguished perspective image of the subject surface is described. The subject surface has innate visual features, a subset of which are selected. The facility uses the location of the selected visual features in a perspective image of the subject surface that precedes the distinguished perspective image in time to identify search zones in the distinguished perspective image. The facility searches the identified search zones for the selected visual features to determine the 2-dimensional locations at which the selected visual features occur. Based on the determined 2-dimensional locations, the facility determines the 3-dimensional location and orientation of the subject surface in the distinguished perspective image.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 11, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 26, 2011
    Assignee: Artoolworks, Inc.
    Inventors: Mark N. Billinghurst, Hirokazu Kato
  • Patent number: 7987078
    Abstract: A method of modeling a diesel engine that is capable of multiple combustion modes and equipped with a turbocharger and EGR loop. The model comprises a set of equations, each equation representing one of the following as a time derivative: pressure at the intake manifold, pressure between the turbine and an intake manifold throttle, pressure at the exhaust manifold, the compressor power, and the fresh air fraction (the ratio of fresh air to EGR). The model is used to determine what engine conditions (such as throttle positions and turbocharger output) will result in desired pressures and fresh air fraction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 10, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 26, 2011
    Assignee: Southwest Research Institute
    Inventor: Junmin Wang
  • Publication number: 20110172980
    Abstract: An improved method of inspecting the tubes of a steam generator of a nuclear reactor involves modeling the steam generator and comparing signals of a tube from an eddy current sensor with aspects of the model to determine whether further analysis is required. The model can advantageously include exception data with regard to particular regions of interest (ROIs) of particular tubes that is based upon historic data collected from the steam generator.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 14, 2010
    Publication date: July 14, 2011
    Applicant: Westinghouse Electric Company LLC
    Inventor: Qui V. Le
  • Publication number: 20110172803
    Abstract: A forming simulation method of an elastic-plastic material, which includes: calculating an element equivalent nodal force vector from stress tensor using a finite element method for one or a plurality of finite elements of a target configuration of the elastic-plastic material; and calculating the total equivalent nodal force vector of areas by integrating the element equivalent nodal force vector for the calculated one or more finite elements over all the areas or specified areas of the elastic-plastic material.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 29, 2009
    Publication date: July 14, 2011
    Inventors: Noriyuki Suzuki, Takashi Ariga, Akihiro Uenishi, Shigeru Yonemura
  • Patent number: 7979254
    Abstract: A simulation control section 210 of an NC machining simulation apparatus 10 computes a movement path of a mechanical element when performing simulation. A ring buffer 270 memorizes the movement path of the mechanical element. In response to a replay instruction, the simulation control section 210 reads the movement path from the ring buffer 270. The simulation control section 210 then displays the mechanical element on a display device 190 as a solid model based on the movement path for replaying the simulation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 12, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 12, 2011
    Assignee: Yamazaki Mazak Corporation
    Inventors: Hajime Ohashi, Kazuhiro Kikata, Morikuni Kimura, Takushi Itogawa
  • Patent number: 7979243
    Abstract: In a graphical modeling environment supporting a model having at least two different analysis frameworks operating therein, a system and corresponding method of processing the graphical model modify the model to group model portions together for processing in the same analysis framework. Model parts are identified and associated with the analysis framework in which they operate. Model parts are then grouped based on their association with their analysis framework to form model portions that operate in one of the different analysis frameworks. In instances where topological separation of model portions operating in the same analysis framework occurs, the system and method reconfigure intervening model portions to be amenable with operation in the analysis framework of the surrounding model portions to improve processing efficiency.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 13, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 12, 2011
    Assignee: The MathWorks, Inc.
    Inventors: Pieter J. Mosterman, Robert O. Aberg
  • Publication number: 20110166837
    Abstract: Teachings of the disclosure are directed to a reamer and/or bit interaction model system and method. The method may include receiving performance data regarding a cutting structure, and calculating a characteristic curve, using the performance data. The characteristic curve may be weight-based and/or torque-based. The method may also include storing the characteristic curve. In particular embodiments, the characteristic curve may include either weight on cutting structure or torque on the cutting structure, as a function of the rate of penetration.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 4, 2011
    Publication date: July 7, 2011
    Inventors: Luk Servaes, John Ransford Hardin, JR., Stefano Mancini, Eric Lauret, Shilin Chen
  • Patent number: 7974823
    Abstract: In one embodiment, a design is verified by creating a graphical model with a graphical modeling tool executing on a computing device. The graphical model may include a plurality of model elements. A postcondition element is coupled to a selected model element of the plurality of model elements. The postcondition element is associated with a desired result. The graphical model is employed to generate an executable form of the design. The executable form of the design and an indication of the desired result are provided to a verification tool, to instruct the verification tool to implement one or more verification scenarios.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 16, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 5, 2011
    Assignee: The Mathworks, Inc.
    Inventor: William J. Aldrich
  • Patent number: 7974822
    Abstract: In a method for determining the life expectancy of machine components (2) during operation, characteristic data are established in order to determine the life expectancy for the relevant machine component (2), loads acting on the machine part (2) during operation are determined by means of a sensor device (10), characteristic values that are characteristic for the loads acting on the machine component (2) are determined, and the life expectancy is determined based on the characteristic values and on the characteristic data for the machine component (2).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 30, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 5, 2011
    Assignee: Robert Bosch GmbH
    Inventors: Walter Ringering, Gerhard Schwaab, Matthias Wahler
  • Publication number: 20110153297
    Abstract: In a method, device and in a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium for computer-assisted generation of a manipulator path of a computer-controlled manipulator, a processor is loaded with a virtual tool and generates a virtual tool path based in a virtual component and the loaded virtual tool. The processor is also loaded with a virtual manipulator kinematic and generates a virtual manipulator path based on the virtual tool path and the virtual manipulator kinematic.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 14, 2009
    Publication date: June 23, 2011
    Inventor: Andreas Keibel
  • Publication number: 20110153296
    Abstract: Apparatus and method of conducting a drilling operation are provided. One embodiment of the method includes drilling a borehole, predicting a value of a first parameter relating to the drilling of the borehole using a geomechanical model, estimating a value of a second parameter from measurements taken by a sensor, updating the geomechanical model based at least in part on the estimated value of the second parameter, predicting a second value of the first parameter using the updated geomechanical model, and altering a drilling parameter for drilling the borehole based on the predicted second value of the first parameter.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 21, 2010
    Publication date: June 23, 2011
    Applicant: BAKER HUGHES INCORPORATED
    Inventors: Andreas G. Sadlier, James Peter Dwyer, Martin O. Brudy, Christopher A. Wolfe, Michael M. Reese
  • Publication number: 20110153295
    Abstract: A method for modeling the performance of a gas turbine engine is provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 21, 2009
    Publication date: June 23, 2011
    Applicant: UNITED TECHNOLOGIES CORPORATION
    Inventors: Sampath K. Yerramalla, Steven Wayne Butler, William Donat
  • Patent number: 7966168
    Abstract: A method for sizing components of a motor control system powered by a power supply includes receiving an upper nominal line voltage parameter for the power supply. A lower nominal line voltage parameter for the power supply is received. A first performance measure of the motor control system is determined based on the upper nominal line voltage parameter. A second performance measure of the motor control system is determined based on the lower nominal line voltage parameter. Components suitable for use in the motor control system are identified based on at least the first and second performance measures.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 30, 2005
    Date of Patent: June 21, 2011
    Assignee: Rockwell Automation Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Graham F. Elvis, Timothy J. Martin
  • Publication number: 20110139509
    Abstract: A method of maintaining a desired downhole pressure during a drilling operation can include measuring a parameter with a sensor, communicating actual parameter values from the sensor to a predictive device, training the predictive device to output predicted parameter values in response to input of the actual parameter values, and outputting the predicted parameter values from the predictive device when the predictive device ceases receiving the actual parameter values. A well drilling system can include a predictive device which outputs predicted parameter values in response to input of actual parameter values to the predictive device. The predictive device continues to output the predicted parameter values, even when the predictive device fails to receive valid actual parameter values. Another well drilling system includes a data validator which communicates valid actual parameter values to the predictive device, but does not communicate invalid actual parameter values to the predictive device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 8, 2011
    Publication date: June 16, 2011
    Applicant: HALLIBURTON ENERGY SERVICES, INC.
    Inventors: Charles M. POOL, Nancy DAVIS, Frank URIAS, Neal G. SKINNER
  • Publication number: 20110137621
    Abstract: In embodiments of the present invention a method and computer program product is presented to map noise levels onto a fan's hydraulic operating plane. In another embodiment this methodology allows for the comparison of a first fan configuration to a second fan configuration to enable the selection of a particular fan configuration to be utilized in an electronic system.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 4, 2009
    Publication date: June 9, 2011
    Applicant: INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS MACHINES CORPORATION
    Inventors: Maurice F. Holahan, Michael D. O'Connell
  • Patent number: 7957944
    Abstract: An example method for estimating a wear profile of a consumable wear product used in conjunction with the processing of ore includes obtaining historical data related to wear of the consumable wear product, building a historical wear model based on the historical data, and obtaining a current single measurement point for the consumable wear product. The method includes extrapolating an estimated wear profile using the current measurement point and the historical wear model, and estimating a performance characteristic based on the estimated wear profile.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 7, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 7, 2011
    Assignee: Servicios Y Consultorias Hendaya SA
    Inventor: Eric Herbst
  • Patent number: 7953583
    Abstract: Disclosed is a method for determining the behavior of jointly movable shafts of a multi-shaft machine. According to said method, a simulation model is created individually for each shaft. The shafts are then impinged upon individually by a movement pattern, and measurable variables are detected in order to be able to make a statement about the transformation of the movement pattern by the shaft. Especially the setpoint position and the actual position of the shafts are recorded (cf. figure). Simulation model parameters, e.g. the inert mass of the shaft, the friction or elasticity of the shaft, can be defined based upon an analysis of the detected measurable variables, whereupon a coordinated movement of at least two shafts can be simulated, the behavior of the individual shafts being considered independent from the behavior of the other shaft. A simulated trajectory is generated. A characteristic variable, e.g.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 31, 2006
    Date of Patent: May 31, 2011
    Assignee: Siemens Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventors: Joachim Ullrich, Weiliang Mi
  • Patent number: 7953578
    Abstract: Systems and methods of limiting contact penetration in numerical simulation of non-linear structure response using implicit finite element analysis are described. According to one aspect, a finite element analysis (FEA) model of a structure is defined as a number of nodes and elements based on geometry and material properties of the structure. A time-marching analysis of the FEA model is then performed. The time-marching analysis results contain a number of solutions of non-linear structure response at respective time steps. Solution at each time step requires at least one iteration to compute. Non-linear structure response is determined in the following manner: 1) determining a search direction; 2) calculating a contact penetration parameter in the search direction; and 3) finding a minimum energy imbalance location along the search direction as a solution which is further restricted by the CPP such that contact penetration of the structure is substantially limited.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 27, 2008
    Date of Patent: May 31, 2011
    Assignee: Livermore Software Technology Corporation
    Inventors: Grimes Roger, XinHai Zhu
  • Publication number: 20110125475
    Abstract: The invention relates to a method of predicting when a grease in a grease-lubricated rolling element bearing (10) will reach an unacceptable condition. According to the invention, a time series of a parameter is measured and recorded, whereby the parameter is directly or indirectly indicative of a degree of breakdown of a lubricant film separating the rolling contacts. With the aid of processing means (22), the time series is analyzed, a dynamic model is constructed that predicts the evolution of parameter values, and the model is used to extrapolate the time series. A time at which a predefined limit will be exceeded is then determined from the extrapolated time series, whereby the predefined limit is representative of unacceptable grease condition. The method according to the invention can be used to predict a relubrication interval for an individual grease-lubricated bearing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 14, 2008
    Publication date: May 26, 2011
    Inventor: Pieter Martin Lugt
  • Publication number: 20110125474
    Abstract: A method and system determines probable strength degradation in a tensile support in an elevator system by monitoring an electrical characteristic of the tensile support as a whole, such as the total electrical resistance of the tensile support, that varies as the remaining strength in the tensile support varies. As the degradation of strength in a typical tensile support varies along the support, and as the relationship between strength and the electrical characteristic generally exhibits an inherent uncertainty, the overall relationship between strength and the electrical characteristic of the whole tensile support will vary as well. Quantifying the probable strength degradation indicated for each value in a range of a measurable electrical characteristic allows monitoring the strength degradation of the tensile support. The method and system also quantifies the relationship between tensile support degradation and a measurable electrical characteristic to monitor degradation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 20, 2010
    Publication date: May 26, 2011
    Inventors: William Veronesi, Norbert Hootsmans
  • Patent number: 7945432
    Abstract: Each spot weld in a structure is represented by a cluster of at least one solid element in a finite element analysis model of the structure. Each spot weld is used for tying together two parts. Each of the two parts are generally represented or modeled as a number of two-dimension shell elements. Since the tie-connection between the spot weld and the two parts can be located arbitrarily within the respective part, the shell elements representing the two parts do not have to be aligned in space. The only requirement is the two shell elements must be overlapped each other such that the spot weld can tie the two shell elements (i.e., one from each part) together. A spot weld failure criterion used for determining failure including shear and axial stresses acted on the spot weld, shell element size and spot weld location sensitivity scale factors and strain rate effect.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 26, 2008
    Date of Patent: May 17, 2011
    Assignee: Livermore Software Technology Corporation
    Inventor: John O. Hallquist
  • Publication number: 20110106513
    Abstract: Computer based CAE models for simulating the physical behavior of disposable articles during manufacturing processes.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 6, 2011
    Publication date: May 5, 2011
    Inventor: Jean Vittorio Seguro
  • Publication number: 20110106680
    Abstract: A system for creating a financial risk model for at least one turbine includes a database storing operational characteristics of one or more turbines and a processing module coupled to the database that receives information from the database and creates the financial risk determination. The processing module includes a performance degradation modeler that receives performance data and creates a model there from and a financial risk calculator coupled to the performance modeler that determines financial exposure to a contract based on the model received from the performance modeler.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 5, 2010
    Publication date: May 5, 2011
    Applicant: GENERAL ELECTRIC COMPANY
    Inventors: Sameer Vittal, Scott Mordin Hoyte, Achalesh Kumar Pandey, Subramaniam Krishnakumar Sastry, Subrat Nanda
  • Publication number: 20110098989
    Abstract: A method to predict heat transfer coefficients for metal castings during quenching and/or cooling is provided. First, an initial set of HTC data are obtained from the computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulation based on the metal casting geometry, initial metal casting temperature (distribution), quench bed/tunnel dimensions and set-up, and a given or baseline (standard) quenching condition including, but not limited to, air and/or gas flow velocity, air and/or gas flow direction relative to the work piece, air and/or gas temperature, air and/or gas humidity, etc. The initial HTC values for the entire surface of the work piece calculated from CFD can then be optimized by multiplying scale factors to minimize the error between the predicted temperature-time profiles and the experimental measurements for the given or standard/baseline quench condition.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 22, 2009
    Publication date: April 28, 2011
    Applicant: GM GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS, INC.
    Inventors: Qigui Wang, Bowang Xiao, Gang Wang, Yiming Rong, Richard D. Sisson
  • Patent number: 7933858
    Abstract: A system is described that treats a solver as an ordered sequence of steps involving the different objects that have to be simulated and relationships between them. Tasks and the order of the tasks are obtained from each object and relationship. The tasks are merged into a sorted list. The solver traverses the list and passing each task to a corresponding object and relationship where the objects are interleaved during processing. The object or relationship then executes the task.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 23, 2007
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2011
    Assignee: Autodesk, Inc.
    Inventor: Jos Stam
  • Patent number: 7933751
    Abstract: This invention relates to computing numerical solutions of linear systems of equations, specifically to implementing preconditioning of the coefficient matrix of such a system. The preconditioning applies to any coefficient matrix, dense or sparse, based on the solutions of a physical problem of unknown functions, commonly referred to as basis or interpolation functions, where the basis function spans more then one mesh element. Examples of such linear systems can result from, as examples, an electromagnetic analysis of printed circuit boards or field scattering in radar applications, fluid mechanics and acoustics. A method and system to compute a preconditioner for a coefficient matrix A that is compatible with the linear system of equations that provides basis function support over at least two mesh elements. Coupling of the preconditioner between partitions of a portioned mesh representation is only through basis functions at the partition boundaries.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 15, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2011
    Assignee: International Business Machines Corporation
    Inventors: Peter Feldmann, Jason D. Morsey, Barry J. Rubin
  • Patent number: 7933756
    Abstract: Apparatuses and methods for automating the generation of additional different models of a mechanical object from a first model by logically partitioning the different models based on parameters that are specific to the particular model being generated. All of the models are independent representations of the same mechanical object, and may represent the design of the mechanical object in different phases of the manufacturing process, for example, the conceptual design, the as-cast design, and the as-machined design. In one embodiment, upon receiving a selection of a feature for the first conceptual model from a user, the apparatus and method can automatically calculate the corresponding contributions for each of the different models. The corresponding contributions can be automatically calculated based on modeling parameters that are specific to the type of model that is to be automatically generated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 21, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2011
    Assignee: Riwebb Incorporated
    Inventors: Gian Paolo Bassi, Attilio Rimoldi
  • Patent number: 7933755
    Abstract: An automated model componentization feature systematically converts duplicate or otherwise amenable patterns in a model into references. Multiple references are simplified to one unit that contains the otherwise duplicated functionality. Duplicated or selected functionality is identified based on a number of arguments that may be user supplied. These arguments include the level of polymorphism (i.e., which of the sample times, dimensions, and data types can be propagated in) but also the maximum size of the patterns to look for to address the general trade-off of generating few partitions with many blocks or many partitions with few blocks and which modeling constructs are used (e.g., whether Go To/From connections such as in Simulink® are present). Model conversions can result in potentially disjoint partitions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 2, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2011
    Assignee: The MathWorks, Inc.
    Inventor: Arwen Warlock
  • Patent number: 7933752
    Abstract: This invention relates to computing numerical solutions of linear systems of equations, specifically to implementing preconditioning of the coefficient matrix of such a system. The preconditioning applies to any coefficient matrix, dense or sparse, based on the solutions of a physical problem of unknown functions, commonly referred to as basis or interpolation functions, where the basis function spans more then one mesh element. Examples of such linear systems can result from, as examples, an electromagnetic analysis of printed circuit boards or field scattering in radar applications, fluid mechanics and acoustics. A method and system to compute a preconditioner for a coefficient matrix A that is compatible with the linear system of equations that provides basis function support over at least two mesh elements. Coupling of the preconditioner between partitions of a portioned mesh representation is only through basis functions at the partition boundaries.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 15, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2011
    Assignee: International Business Machines Corporation
    Inventors: Peter Feldmann, Jason D. Morsey, Barry J. Rubin
  • Publication number: 20110093250
    Abstract: A Modeling, Design, Analysis, Simulation, and Evaluation (MDASE) aspects of gyrocompassing in relation to Far-Target Location (FTL) systems include a Gyrocompass Modeling and Simulation System (GMSS). The GMSS is a modularized software system which has four major components: the 6DOF Motion Simulator, the IMU Sensor Simulator, the Gyrocompass System and Calibration Process Simulator, the Gyrocompass System Evaluation and Analysis Module. Each module has one or two graphic user interfaces (GUIs) as user interfaces for simulation components selection and parameter setting. The modular architecture of GMSS makes it very flexible for programming and testing. And, the component-based software development technology greatly eases system extension and maintenance. The simulators can be used as either an off-line tool or as a real-time simulation tool. The realization of the GMSS can be based on any computer platforms, for it is written in high level language and tools and is portable.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 24, 2010
    Publication date: April 21, 2011
    Inventor: Ching-Fang Lin
  • Patent number: 7930154
    Abstract: A method is provided for simulating a vehicle crash on a fuel delivery module of a vehicle. The fuel delivery module (11) has a flange (10) constructed and arranged to be coupled to a fuel tank, a fuel pump (12) for delivering fuel from the tank and through the flange, a reservoir (18) housing the fuel pump, and strut rods (14). Each strut rod has an end coupled to the reservoir or fuel pump and another end coupled to the flange at an interface. The method models a fuel tank associated with the fuel delivery module as a rigid or elastic shell. A solid model of the fuel delivery module is created. The solid model is meshed to create a finite element model. Fluid in the fuel tank is modeled with Lagrangian or arbitrary Lagrangian Eulerian finite elements, or smoothed particle hydrodynamics particles. Solid fluid interactions are added to the meshed solid model.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 29, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 19, 2011
    Assignee: Continental Automotive Systems US, Inc.
    Inventor: Michael Brusoe
  • Publication number: 20110087464
    Abstract: In one aspect of the present invention a force balanced drill bit may comprise a bit body comprising a plurality of fixed blades, each blade comprising cutters defining a cutter profile. Junk slots may be disposed between the blades and define the blade boundaries. The blade boundaries may be spaced apart sufficiently to achieve force balance. In another aspect of the present invention a method of designing a downhole fixed bladed bit comprises the steps of modeling a fixed bladed bit by inputting blade and cutter parameters into a computer program, performing a force balance on the modeled fixed bladed bit, and modifying at least one blade parameter to adjust the force balance. The parameters for modeling a fixed bladed bit include cutter placement on a plurality of blades integrally formed in a bit body and a position for each blade.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 14, 2009
    Publication date: April 14, 2011
    Inventors: David R. Hall, Casey Webb, Davido L. Hyer
  • Publication number: 20110087474
    Abstract: A simulating system comprises an input device, intended to be operated by an operator, a simulator arrangement, and a display. The simulator arrangement is configured to read a signal representing an operation of the input device, and to simulate equipment using said input signal and pre-stored equipment characteristics. The equipment may be drilling equipment for use in offshore oil/gas exploration. The system results in a visual representation of the equipment, manipulated by the input device. The simulator arrangement comprises an equipment controller, connected to an environment simulator that provides the visual representation of the equipment. The environment simulator is connected to an object database comprising equipment objects.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 10, 2009
    Publication date: April 14, 2011
    Applicant: Aker MH AS
    Inventors: Ole Paulsen, Bjarne Larsen, Ove Sandve, Jens Hodne
  • Publication number: 20110087517
    Abstract: An operating strategy for effectively operating a system, such as a boiler system, is provided by quantifying operation of the system based on failure characteristics modeled in a computer processor performing failure mode and effects analysis (FMEA) to forecast damage mechanisms from operational parameters. One method includes determining operational consequences from inherent damage impact of fixed operational parameters, enabling instruments for operation with the processor for monitoring and diagnosing potential damage mechanisms, forming a graphic component map sufficient for user review of preselected system locations, and developing macroscopic in-service and out-of-service condition monitoring plans for the system.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 11, 2010
    Publication date: April 14, 2011
    Inventor: Patrick D. Abbott
  • Publication number: 20110087419
    Abstract: An engine control system includes a piston movement modeling module, a cylinder volume determination module, and a cylinder pressure estimation module. The piston movement modeling module models movement of a piston within a corresponding cylinder based on angular change of an engine crankshaft. The cylinder volume determination module determines a volume of the cylinder based on an angular position of the engine crankshaft and the modeled movement of the piston. The cylinder pressure estimation module estimates pressure in the cylinder based on the determined volume, an intake manifold absolute pressure (MAP), an intake valve timing, an exhaust valve timing, and an exhaust back pressure (EBP).
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 9, 2009
    Publication date: April 14, 2011
    Applicant: GM GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS, INC.
    Inventors: Kenneth J. Buslepp, Daniel G. Brennan
  • Patent number: 7925389
    Abstract: A system and method of detecting recirculation within a rack server system. A heat transfer model is constructed for a rack server system. A recirculation zone is specified, and hypothetical recirculation temperatures are input at the recirculation zone. The heat transfer model predicts temperatures elsewhere in the rack severe system, and a predicted temperature profile is computed. Actual temperatures in the rack server system are sensed, and an actual temperature profile is also generated. The actual temperature profile is compared with the predicted temperature profile to detect potential recirculation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 15, 2006
    Date of Patent: April 12, 2011
    Assignee: International Business Machines Corporation
    Inventors: Thomas Michael Bradicich, Angela Beth Dalton, Richard Edwin Harper, William Joseph Piazza
  • Patent number: 7925478
    Abstract: A method for automatically designing a buffer packing size and a computer accessible storage media to store program thereof are provided. First, a buffer thickness of a buffer material is calculated, and a buffer area for a surface of the object receiving an impact is calculated according to a weight of an object and a static stress of the buffer material. Next, a suitable buffer packing size is automatically calculated according to the buffer thickness and the buffer area.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 16, 2007
    Date of Patent: April 12, 2011
    Assignee: Inventec Corporation
    Inventors: Cheng-Yu Wu, Ting-Chuan Chang, Chih-Chen Lo, Jia-Li Wang
  • Patent number: 7921000
    Abstract: A maintenance support system for a construction machine calculates the cumulative load of every component corresponding with the driving and working conditions of the construction machine by a load calculation means after simulating the driving and working conditions on the basis of production operating conditions by an operation simulation means, and forecasts the lifespan of the respective components by a lifespan calculation means on the basis of the cumulative load. Hence, a more accurate maintenance schedule can be established in comparison with a case where which component is to be maintained is determined on the basis of only the operating time.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 27, 2005
    Date of Patent: April 5, 2011
    Assignee: Komatsu Ltd.
    Inventors: Yasunori Ohkura, Hirobumi Miwa, Masakazu Kawakita, Takahiro Yoshimura
  • Publication number: 20110077875
    Abstract: A method of monitoring one or more sumps in order to predict an overflow condition comprising: pumping, using at least one pump (14), liquid from the or each sump (16); monitoring the liquid level in the or each sump (16) using a level monitoring means (24) and outputting liquid level data; monitoring at least one operating condition of the or each pump (16) and outputting pump condition data; and processing the liquid level and pump condition data, using processing means, to predict whether the sump will overflow within a predetermined future period.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 29, 2009
    Publication date: March 31, 2011
    Applicant: Pulsar Process Measurement Limited
    Inventors: Sang Tran, Adrian Dalby
  • Patent number: 7912685
    Abstract: A system that mitigates quantization effects in quantized telemetry signals. During operation, the system monitors a set of quantized telemetry signals. For a given quantized telemetry signal in the set of quantized telemetry signals, the system uses a set of models to generate a set of estimates for the given quantized telemetry signal from the other monitored quantized telemetry signals, wherein each model in the set of models was initialized using a different randomly selected subset of a training dataset. The system then averages the set of estimates to produce an estimated signal for the given quantized telemetry signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 22, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 22, 2011
    Assignee: Oracle America, Inc.
    Inventors: Ramakrishna C. Dhanekula, Kenny C. Gross, Keith A. Whisnant
  • Patent number: 7906927
    Abstract: It is intended to realize a signal input method which makes it possible to add another method to an existing method later in a simple manner as well as an opening/closing controller which employs two methods and can be constructed by adding another method to an existing method in a simple manner. A signal processing circuit (5) is inserted in an auto signal path of a control circuit (1) which performs opening/closing control with a pinch preventing function on the basis of an auto signal (AUTO), a close signal (UP), and an open signal (DOWN) which are input via respective signal paths. The auto signal and a detection signal of an additional pinch sensor are input to the control circuit via the signal processing circuit in the form of serial signals.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 26, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 15, 2011
    Assignees: Shiroki Kogyo Co., Ltd., Tachibana Eletech Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Masayuki Kato, Kazushi Hirose, Yoshihiro Fujimura, Minoru Tanaka, Takao Koba, Hiroki Nishida
  • Patent number: 7908128
    Abstract: Modeling a tire model used for a computer simulation of a pneumatic tire with a toroidal main body and a tread pattern by setting a three-dimensional main body model by dividing the main body by an integer M not less than 2 equally in a circumferential direction of the tire using a finite number of elements, setting a three-dimensional pattern model by dividing the tread pattern by an integer M greater than N equally in the circumferential direction of the tire using a finite number of elements, coupling the pattern model with the main body model while aligning each tire rotation axis to make a three-dimensional tire model, and correcting by moving nodal points existing on a radially outer surface of the pattern model such that a thickness of the pattern model measured from a radially outer surface of the main body model in a normal direction becomes constant.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 6, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 15, 2011
    Assignee: Sumitomo Rubber Industries, Ltd.
    Inventor: Masaki Shiraishi
  • Patent number: 7908126
    Abstract: A method of computer-based simulation of a cooling system includes receiving configuration data for a heat exchanger of the cooling system, customizing the configuration data for the heat exchanger; simulating cooling system performance by processing the customized configuration data through a model of the cooling system, and generating simulated cooling system performance data, based on the simulating, for evaluating operation of the cooling system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 28, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 15, 2011
    Assignee: Emerson Climate Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Vijay Bahel, Peter F. Dexter, Altaf Hossain, Thomas E. Crone
  • Patent number: 7904318
    Abstract: Methods and systems are provided for estimating liability and right of way in an accident. In one embodiment, liability estimation in a vehicle accident may be based on a plurality of characteristics that describe the accident. In addition, right of way estimation in a vehicle accident may be based on the plurality of characteristics that describe the accident. These characteristics may include: the configuration of the roadway, the type of accident, the traffic controls at the vehicle accident scene, and impact points of each vehicle. The characteristics from an actual accident may be compared to those in a past or theoretical accident. Liability may be estimated from a preassigned liability associated with a nearest matching past or theoretical accident. Right of way may be estimated from a predetermined right of way associated with the nearest matching past or theoretical accident. The liability estimate may include a base liability and one or more adjustments due to various factors.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 2, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 8, 2011
    Assignee: Computer Sciences Corporation
    Inventors: Stephan Wahlbin, Tim Johnston
  • Patent number: 7904282
    Abstract: A method for multi-objective fault accommodation using predictive modeling is disclosed. The method includes using a simulated machine that simulates a faulted actual machine, and using a simulated controller that simulates an actual controller. A multi-objective optimization process is performed, based on specified control settings for the simulated controller and specified operational scenarios for the simulated machine controlled by the simulated controller, to generate a Pareto frontier-based solution space relating performance of the simulated machine to settings of the simulated controller, including adjustment to the operational scenarios to represent a fault condition of the simulated machine.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 22, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 8, 2011
    Assignee: General Electric Company
    Inventors: Kai Frank Goebel, Rajesh Venkat Subbu, Randal Thomas Rausch, Dean Kimball Frederick
  • Patent number: 7899651
    Abstract: In a method for estimating an entrance angle of a V-ribbed belt from a flat pulley to a V-ribbed pulley, the entrance angle is estimated easily at a stage of pulley layout design. The V-ribbed belt 10 forms a track which enters at an entrance angle of approximately zero degree (substantially perpendicular to a plane that includes an axis 3a of rotation) into the flat pulley 3, is wound along the outer peripheral face of the flat pulley 3 without deviating in the axial direction thereof, and extends substantially linearly from a winding end point c at the flat pulley 3 to a winding start point d at a drive pulley 1. The entrance angle ? of the V-ribbed belt 10 from the flat pulley 3 to the drive pulley 1 is obtained on the basis of the track of the V-ribbed belt by, for example, a three-dimensional CAD or the like.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 7, 2005
    Date of Patent: March 1, 2011
    Assignee: Bando Chemical Industries, Ltd.
    Inventors: Hiroyoshi Takahashi, Eijiro Nakashima, Hideaki Kawahara
  • Patent number: 7899656
    Abstract: A virtual speaker demonstration system is disclosed that permits a retail outlet to use a reference speaker to demonstrate the performance of multiple different demonstration speakers. A user interface permits a user to select a demonstration speaker and signal processing is performed so that the output from the reference speaker simulates the output of the selected demonstration speaker. The invention provides benefits to all three of the consumer, the retailer, and the manufacturer. The consumer can listen to and compare multiple demonstration speakers easily and conveniently from the same reference speaker. The retailer to use a single (or few) reference speaker to demonstrate the performance of multiple demonstration speakers, saving costs and space. The manufacturer to be able to display and demonstrate to consumers a broader range of the manufacturer's product line.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 4, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 1, 2011
    Assignee: Crutchfield Corporation
    Inventor: William G. Crutchfield, Jr.
  • Publication number: 20110037339
    Abstract: Systems and methods are provided for a motor having a concentrated winding construction with reduced torque ripple. A motor comprises a stator including a plurality of tooth segments disposed circumferentially to establish a hollow core and a rotor rotatably disposed inside the hollow core. The plurality of tooth segments define a plurality of slot openings associated with a plurality of slots. Each slot of the plurality of slots has a slot opening and at least one slot opening of the plurality of slot openings is asymmetric with respect to the plurality of slot openings.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 12, 2009
    Publication date: February 17, 2011
    Applicant: GM GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS, INC.
    Inventors: KHWAJA M. RAHMAN, MATTHEW D. LABA, EDWARD L. KAISER, PETER J. SAVAGIAN
  • Patent number: 7890303
    Abstract: A system for managing design parameters in a plurality of different CAD systems flexible for the plurality of different CAD systems having essentially different design purposes. In a method for managing design parameters being used in a plurality of different CAD systems, respectively, in order to prevent prolongation of the completion time of the entire design of a product, arbitrary design parameters in the design parameters being used in the plurality of different CAD systems, respectively, are brought into a virtually shared state among the plurality of different CAD systems. Design parameters in the virtually shared state and design parameters not in the virtually shared state are managed independently.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 14, 2004
    Date of Patent: February 15, 2011
    Assignee: Zuken Inc.
    Inventor: Tatsuhiro Matsuda
  • Patent number: 7890197
    Abstract: A method of controlling soot blowers near a heat exchange section includes generating models of both the ideal clean operating condition of the section and the dirty operating condition. The current operating condition of the section is used to calculate a reliability parameter that provides an indication of the reliability of the ideal and dirty models. If the reliability parameter indicates that the models are reliable, the models are used to help evaluate the cleanliness status of a particular heat exchange section and assist in making decisions on whether to blow the section or not, and whether to make any necessary adjustments to the operating sequence of the soot blowers. If the reliability parameter indicates that the models are unreliable, the models are regenerated using additional process data.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 31, 2007
    Date of Patent: February 15, 2011
    Assignee: Emerson Process Management Power & Water Solutions, Inc.
    Inventors: Peter N. Francino, Xu Cheng