Mechanical Patents (Class 703/7)
  • Patent number: 7433810
    Abstract: A computer-implemented method for generating a computer model of one or more teeth by receiving a digital data set of meshes representing the teeth; creating a parametric representation of the digital data set; and displaying the computer model of the teeth using the parametric representation. The model can be modified or transmitted for viewing or for fabricating dental appliances.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 23, 2003
    Date of Patent: October 7, 2008
    Assignee: Align Technology, Inc.
    Inventors: Elena Pavloskaia, Huafeng Wen
  • Publication number: 20080243457
    Abstract: A process for determining a remaining life of a part, such as an airfoil in a gas turbine engine, comprising the steps of establishing the boundary conditions that act on the part, determining the material properties of the part, creating a 3D finite element model of the part and determining the residual stresses on the part, observing the actual part for at least one crack, and comparing the location of the crack to the residual stresses determined on the model at the crack location. If the residual stress at the crack location passes into the wall of the part beyond a predetermined length, then the part is rejected for further use.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 9, 2008
    Publication date: October 2, 2008
    Applicant: FLORIDA TURBINE TECHNOLOGIES, INC.
    Inventor: Robert E. deLaneuville
  • Publication number: 20080243455
    Abstract: A method for fabricating a structure to include at least a portion of a conduit retention system is described. The method includes receiving parameters for the structure and the portion of the conduit retention system associated with the structure via a user interface, providing the parameters to a machine configured to fabricate the structure and incorporate the portion of the conduit retention system, the machine using a direct manufacturing process, and operating the machine to integrally fabricate the structure and the portion of the conduit retention system.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 27, 2007
    Publication date: October 2, 2008
    Inventor: Jeffrey H. Wood
  • Publication number: 20080243063
    Abstract: Robotic instrument systems and control implementations are disclosed. In one such system, an elongate guide instrument such as a guide catheter includes tension or deflection element such as a stainless steel wire or pull wire. An actuator, such as a servo motor, is operably coupled to the controller. The controller is configured to control actuation of the servo motor based on execution of a control model including a mechanics model that accounts for a force on the guide instrument. The control model may also utilize both kinematics and mechanics models. The controller is configured to control actuation of the actuator based the control model that includes the mechanics model such that the elongate guide instrument bends when the actuator moves the deflection member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 30, 2008
    Publication date: October 2, 2008
    Inventor: David B. Camarillo
  • Publication number: 20080243456
    Abstract: Methods, program products and systems for preparing a mechanical model for a dynamic simulation. A first plurality of bodies in a mechanical model are identified including at least one grounded body and at least one free body, each of the bodies in the first plurality of bodies being related to at least one other body in the plurality of bodies by at least one constraint that removes or limits at least one degree of freedom for that body in relation to another body. The bodies in the first plurality of bodies are merged into a minimum number of rigid groups needed for a dynamic simulation where the minimum number of rigid groups includes at least one grounded group and at least one mobile group. Constraints that relate bodies within a group are removed from each of the rigid groups.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 12, 2007
    Publication date: October 2, 2008
    Applicant: AUTODESK, INC.
    Inventors: George Hudetz, John Schlansker, Frederic Tachet, Estelle Pardon, Peter Legate Maxfield
  • Publication number: 20080234994
    Abstract: A method for multi-objective deterioration accommodation using predictive modeling is disclosed. The method uses a simulated machine that simulates a deteriorated actual machine, and a simulated controller that simulates an actual controller. A multi-objective 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 deteriorated condition of the simulated machine.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 22, 2007
    Publication date: September 25, 2008
    Applicant: GENERAL ELECTRIC COMPANY
    Inventors: Kai Frank Goebel, Rajesh Venkat Subbu, Dean Kimball Frederick
  • Patent number: 7428478
    Abstract: System, method and computer-readable medium for baseline modeling a product or process. A service database contains process data. A preprocessor processes the data into a predetermined format. A baseline modeling component builds a baseline model from the preprocessed data, wherein the baseline model relates process performance variables as a function of process operating conditions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 30, 2003
    Date of Patent: September 23, 2008
    Assignee: General Electric Company
    Inventor: James Kenneth Aragones
  • Patent number: 7428481
    Abstract: A computer-implemented method generates a computer model of one or more teeth by receiving as input a digital data set of meshes representing the teeth; selecting a curved coordinate system with mappings to and from a 3D space; and generating a function in the curved coordinate system to represent each tooth.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 7, 2003
    Date of Patent: September 23, 2008
    Assignee: Align Technology, Inc.
    Inventors: Sergey Nikolskiy, Elena Pavloskaia, Huafeng Wen
  • Publication number: 20080228454
    Abstract: The method for simulating bending of a tube by means of at least one bending machine comprises a step of calculating at least one cycle of bending commands (30, 35) related to at least one tube-manufacturing parameter as a function of a set of tube data (10) and of a set of technological data (20). There is obtained at least one three-dimensional geometric model (40) of at least one bending machine and associated mechanical tools as a function of at least one parameter (50) derived from the cycle of bending commands calculated in this way (30, 35). In accordance with the cycle of bending commands calculated in this way (35), obtaining a three-dimensional and kinematic simulation of the process in which the tube represented in this way by the set of tube data (10) is bent by means of at least one bending machine and associated mechanical tools represented in this way by the corresponding three-dimensional geometric model (40).
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 18, 2006
    Publication date: September 18, 2008
    Applicant: Airbus France
    Inventors: Yann-Henri Laudrain, Jean-Louis Lamotte
  • Patent number: 7426459
    Abstract: Methods of designing a single cone roller cone bit, and bits made using those methods are disclosed. In particular, methods of graphically displaying a single cone roller cone bit interacting with a formation is shown. In one method, a value of at least one design parameter for the single cone roller cone drill bit according to the graphical display is adjusted. The simulating, displaying and adjusting to change a simulated performance of the single cone roller cone drill bit may be repeated as necessary.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 10, 2004
    Date of Patent: September 16, 2008
    Assignee: Smith International, Inc.
    Inventor: Sujian J. Huang
  • Patent number: 7425172
    Abstract: A polishing pad for chemical mechanical planarization of a film on a substrate is customized by obtaining one or more characteristics of a structure on a substrate. For example, when the structure is a chip formed on a semiconductor wafer, the one or more characteristics of the structure can include chip size, pattern density, chip architecture, film material, film topography, and the like. Based on the one or more characteristics of the structure, a value for the one or more chemical or physical properties of the pad is selected. For example, the one or more chemical or physical properties of the pad can include pad material hardness, thickness, surface grooving, pore size, porosity, Youngs modulus, compressibility, asperity, and the like.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 25, 2004
    Date of Patent: September 16, 2008
    Assignee: NexPlanar Corporation
    Inventors: Sudhanshu Misra, Pradip K. Roy
  • Publication number: 20080221841
    Abstract: According to an aspect of an embodiment, a method comprises an extracting an interference existing between parts of a three-dimension CAD model from data of the three-dimension CAD model, modifying a shape of an interfering part based on the extracted interference, and creating a modified model having no interference based on the modified shape of the interfering part.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 4, 2008
    Publication date: September 11, 2008
    Applicant: FUJITSU LIMITED
    Inventor: Youji Uchikura
  • Publication number: 20080221840
    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: Application
    Filed: February 21, 2008
    Publication date: September 11, 2008
    Inventors: Gian Paolo Bassi, Attilio Rimoldi
  • Patent number: 7424413
    Abstract: A method for optimizing the efficiency of an exhaust system of a turbomachine, such as the nacelle of a gas jet turbine engine. The method includes the steps of selecting a plurality of turbomachine exhaust system parameters for comparative analysis, varying at least some of the parameters to define a plurality of discrete exhaust system configurations, and converting the plurality of exhaust system configurations to corresponding solid model forms. Corresponding geometric meshes are generated from the solid models, and CFD is carried out on each of the meshes to generate exhaust system performance data for each of the plurality of exhaust system configurations. The performance data is processed to provide comparisons of the exhaust system efficiency of each of the plurality of exhaust system configurations.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 21, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 9, 2008
    Assignee: General Electric Company
    Inventors: Darrell Brooke, Keith E. J. Blodgett
  • Patent number: 7424409
    Abstract: Apparatus for building a stochastic model of a time sequential data sequence, the data sequence comprising symbols selected from a finite symbol set, the apparatus comprising: an input for receiving said data sequence, a tree builder for expressing said symbols as a series of counters within nodes, each node having a counter for each symbol, each node having a position within said tree, said position expressing a symbol sequence and each counter indicating a number of its corresponding symbol which follows a symbol sequence of its respective node, and a tree reducer for reducing said tree to an irreducible set of conditional probabilities of relationships between symbols in said input data sequence. The tree may then be used to carry out a comparison with a new data sequence to determine a statistical distance between the old and the new data sequence.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 19, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 9, 2008
    Assignee: Context-Based 4 Casting (C-B4) Ltd.
    Inventors: Irad Ben-Gal, Armin Shmilovici, Gail Morag, Gonen Zinger
  • Publication number: 20080215164
    Abstract: The movement of a machine element associated with a machine axis of a machine is simulated with a model by inputting in the model a movement to be performed by the machine element, and determining with the model at least one of a position profile, a velocity profile and a torque profile suitable for optimized movement of the movable machine element, as well as a predetermined quality function and a limitation for the movement of the machine axis. The position profile, velocity profile or torque profile is then used as a reference or pilot control variable in a control loop to control the moving machine element. The predetermined quality function is an integral of the square of a torque or of a variable which is directly related to the torque. The method can be used to optimize the guided movement of the machine element.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 13, 2006
    Publication date: September 4, 2008
    Applicant: SIEMENS AKTIENGESELLSCHAFT
    Inventors: Joachim Denk, Elmar Schafers, Bernd Wedel
  • Patent number: 7421381
    Abstract: The present invention provides a design support method adapted to support a design of a conveying path by performing simulation of a behavior of a sheet-shaped flexible medium being conveyed in the conveying path and comprising a conveying condition setting step for setting a conveying condition of a conveying roller for conveying the flexible medium, a roller nip calculation step for preparing a finite element model of a conveying roller pair including the conveying roller and for calculating of deformation of the conveying roller in a nip portion of the conveying roller pair, and a motion calculating step for calculating the behavior of the flexible medium in a time-series manner on the basis of the deformation of the conveying roller calculated in the roller nip calculating step regarding a portion of the flexible medium conveyed by the conveying roller pair having the finite element model prepared in the roller nip calculating step and calculating the behavior of the flexible medium in a time-series manne
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 4, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 2, 2008
    Assignee: Canon Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventor: Kiyoshi Oyama
  • Patent number: 7418373
    Abstract: Methods for evaluating drill pattern parameters such as burden, spacing, borehole diameter, etc., at a blast site are disclosed. One method involves accumulating the burden contributed by successive layers of rock and matching the accumulated rock burden to a target value for a borehole having a length related to the average height of the layers. Another method relates to varying drill pattern parameters and characteristics to match blast design constraints, including the substitution of one explosive material for another by the proper balance of materials and/or output energies to the associated rock burden. Analysis of deviations from target rock burdens and corrective measures are disclosed, as well as cost optimization methods. The various methods can be practiced using an appropriately programmed general purpose computer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 3, 2004
    Date of Patent: August 26, 2008
    Assignee: Live Oak Ministries
    Inventor: Jay Howard Heck, Sr.
  • Patent number: 7415400
    Abstract: A system and method for designing stamping tools that produce parts of desired dimensions. The system and method compensate for post stamping deviations from the desired dimensions in the shape of the tools used to produce the parts. The compensated tools result in nearly ideal parts.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 15, 2002
    Date of Patent: August 19, 2008
    Assignee: Livermore Software Technology Corporation
    Inventors: Xin Hai Zhu, Bradley N Maker
  • Publication number: 20080195364
    Abstract: A method for predicting a tool point response of a spindle-holder-tool assembly to be used for high-speed machining applications is provided. The method includes determining direct and cross displacement-to-force receptances of a standard holder clamped in the spindle. The method also includes determining direct receptances at a free end of the standard holder based upon the determined direct and cross displacement-to-force receptances of the standard holder. Additionally, the method includes performing an inverse receptance coupling to simulate a decomposition of the standard holder into multiple subassemblies, the subassemblies including a spindle-holder base subassembly and an extended holder subassembly. The method further includes determining spindle-holder base subassembly receptances based upon the simulated decomposition of the standard holder.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 7, 2006
    Publication date: August 14, 2008
    Applicant: University of Florida Research Foundation, Inc.
    Inventors: Tony L. Schmitz, Gregory S. Duncan
  • Patent number: 7412357
    Abstract: A process for designing dump bodies which more accurately takes into account field loading/haulage conditions is provided. The process includes gathering data from actual field environments including material density, front, rear and side angles of material repose and corner void information. From this data, a three dimensional model of the load is generated. This three dimensional load model is then used to design the truck body in an iterative process until the volume of the truck body and the distribution of weight of the three dimensional load model on the truck chassis is substantially the same as the desired volume and the distribution of weight on the truck chassis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 15, 1999
    Date of Patent: August 12, 2008
    Assignee: Philippi-Hagenbuch, Inc.
    Inventors: LeRoy G. Hagenbuch, Philip T. Brinkman
  • Patent number: 7412365
    Abstract: An environmental impact estimation method comprising storing information related to reuse and recycle objects in a memory unit, performing life cycle modeling to make a life cycle model, the life cycle modeling including reading information related to the reuse and recycle objects, selecting some of the reuse and recycle objects which can be diverted to a new product, and combining the reuse and recycle objects selected together to assemble new product, predicting, as a superposition of two or more arbitrary shapes, recovery distribution of products by the life cycle modeling to predict a recovery quantity of the reuse and recycle objected, using the life cycle model, determining the arbitrary shapes as a peak of the product worth life or product useful life, and evaluating an environmental impact and a cost to bear in reuse or recycle based on prediction result.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 20, 2002
    Date of Patent: August 12, 2008
    Assignee: Kabushiki Kaisha Toshiba
    Inventors: Hideki Kobayashi, Akinori Hongu
  • Publication number: 20080189091
    Abstract: According to an aspect of an embodiment, a method comprises a screw fastening unit extracting step of extracting a screw fastening unit, in which at least two or more members are fastened by a screw, from a three-dimensional model, a shape changing step of changing each of circular arc surfaces of the screw, a screw through hole, and a screw hole disposed in the screw fastening unit to a polygonal polyhedron approximating the circular arc surface, a mesh creation step of creating an analysis model which is divided into a meshed analysis unit by allocation of polyhedral meshes along each of the edge surfaces of the screw, screw through hole, and screw hole which is changed to polyhedrons, and a contact definition step of setting the friction of a contact unit of the mesh-divided screw and screw hole to be infinite so as to achieve a fixed state.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 9, 2008
    Publication date: August 7, 2008
    Applicant: Fujitsu Limited
    Inventors: Misao INOKE, Rikako Shinomiya
  • Patent number: 7409269
    Abstract: A method of analyzing the vibro-acoustic optimization potential of a structure of vibro-acoustically coupled subsystems having internal and coupling loss factors by means of statistical energy analysis (SEA). The method optimizes the vibro-acoustic behavior of the structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 15, 2006
    Date of Patent: August 5, 2008
    Assignee: Magna Steyr Fahzeugtechnik AG & Co KG
    Inventor: Thorsten Bartosch
  • Publication number: 20080183438
    Abstract: A method for analyzing a mechanical system is disclosed. The method includes, using a computer program product, importing from an engineering design software program data related to a mechanical assembly. The method further includes, using the computer program product, selecting two or more points and one or more connections associated with the mechanical assembly. The method additionally includes based on the selected two or more points, the selected one or more connections, and the imported data, determining one or more three-dimensional model solutions. The method also includes presenting the one or more three-dimensional model solutions to a user, and selecting one of the presented three-dimensional model solutions.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 17, 2008
    Publication date: July 31, 2008
    Inventors: David Foster, Rammagy Yoeu
  • Publication number: 20080178600
    Abstract: Embodiments of the invention can provide systems and methods for initializing dynamic model states using a Kalman or similar type filter. In one embodiment, an adaptable model-based control system for controlling a gas turbine engine is provided. The system can include at least one sensor adapted to obtain dynamic-type information about a current state of the engine. Furthermore, the system can include an engine model adapted to receive information from the sensor, and further adapted to reflect the current state of the engine. In addition, the system can include a model filter adapted to initialize the model with at least a portion of the dynamic-type information, wherein at least one value based at least in part on the dynamic-type information is input to the engine model. Moreover, the model can be further adapted to determine an output from the engine model based at least in part on the at least one value.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 26, 2007
    Publication date: July 31, 2008
    Applicant: General Electric Company
    Inventors: Timothy Andrew Healy, Randy S. Rosson, Kevin Wood Wilkes
  • Publication number: 20080181769
    Abstract: A blade for a turbomachine extends in use, in a radial direction relative to the axis of the turbomachine. The turbomachine has at least one operating condition which generates supersonic fluid flow at the blade. The blade is adapted to provide, at the supersonic operating condition, a leading edge sweep angle which varies such that successive radial positions (i) to (iii) along the leading edge are at respective sweep angle turning points. Position (i) is the radially inner and position (iii) the radially outer of the positions. Position (i) is at or radially outward of the 30% span position, where 0% span is the radially innermost point of the leading edge and 100% span is the radially outermost point of the leading edge.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 16, 2008
    Publication date: July 31, 2008
    Applicant: ROLLS-ROYCE PLC
    Inventors: Alexander George Wilson, Rory Douglas Stieger, Nigel Smith, John Coupland
  • Publication number: 20080183448
    Abstract: The disclosed apparatus includes a storage unit storing differential information between a simulated value of attributive data of a product and an actually measured value of the attributive data of the product, a prediction unit predicting attributive data of a new product by simulation using design information of the new product, and a correction unit correcting the simulated attributive data of the new product based on stored differential information.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 23, 2008
    Publication date: July 31, 2008
    Applicant: FUJITSU LIMITED
    Inventor: Nobutaka Itoh
  • Publication number: 20080172213
    Abstract: A simple analysis model for an elastomeric material member with a strong nonlinearity is created, that is, for a rubber member gripped between a first member and a second member, first shell elements are created for the contact surface of the rubber member contacting the first member, second shell elements are created for the contact surface of the rubber member contacting the second member, and spring elements are created between specific nodes of the first and second shell elements. The spring constant of the created spring elements is identified by data of material tests.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 20, 2007
    Publication date: July 17, 2008
    Applicant: FUJITSU LIMITED
    Inventor: Kanako Imai
  • Patent number: 7401013
    Abstract: A method for optimizing data gathering, is provided wherein the method comprising the steps of designing a first system test comprising two or more maneuvers, compiling a one or more data variable for each of the two or more maneuvers from the first system test, pooling each data variable from each maneuvers into a first set of data, removing a first maneuver's data variables from the pooled first set of data, comparing the first maneuver's data variables against the first set of data with the first maneuver's data variables removed, and determining whether to perform the first maneuver based on whether the maneuver provided new data.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 15, 2001
    Date of Patent: July 15, 2008
    Assignee: Lockheed Martin Corporation
    Inventor: Robert W. Vanderwiel
  • Patent number: 7400994
    Abstract: Rotatable discs combined with turbine blades in engines must be tested for critical life analysis. Thus, consideration must be made as to life expectancy for such components as a result of tensile circumferential hoops as generated by the weight of blades under rotation as well as compressive axial stress as a result of thermal gradients during initial warm up. Previous testing arrangements have considered tensile circumferential hoop stress but not compressive axial stress combinations such as “Von Mises” stress. By provision of bend structures 13, 223 a bending moment is created about a base 2, 22 formed in a test component 1, 21 such that a bending moment force 4, 24 creates a bending moment in the test component 1, 21. This bending moment results in a compressive axial stress reminiscent of that in a practical turbine engine disc as a result of initial thermal gradients. In such circumstances a more realistic testing of the component 1, 21 representative of a practical disc/blade combination is achieved.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 8, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 15, 2008
    Assignee: Rolls-Royce plc
    Inventors: Anthony B Phipps, Nicholas S A Cristinacce
  • Publication number: 20080166579
    Abstract: A method for producing an at least partially surface-densified metallic toothed element comprising a densified sintering material, in order to improve a strength profile, a preform of the toothed element being produced with a locally selective oversize profile relative to a final size of the toothed element and being rolled to the final size by means of at least one rolling die, the toothed element being densified in locally varied manner at least in the region of at least one flank and/or one root of a tooth of the toothed element to produce a densified outer layer.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 10, 2007
    Publication date: July 10, 2008
    Inventor: Gerhard Kotthoff
  • Patent number: 7398190
    Abstract: A mechanism simulation method of using both a dynamics simulation and a kinematic simulation is described. In the dynamics simulation, a behavior of a mechanism is simulated using a dynamics model including a continuous system equation having a plurality of variables. In the kinematic simulation, a geometrical operation of the mechanism is simulated using a three-dimensional mechanism model including a plurality of mechanism elements. A value of one of the variables of the continuous system equation is calculated by a first simulator that executes the dynamics simulation. Referring to a table that represents a correspondence between the variables and the mechanism elements, a mechanism element corresponding to a variable having the calculated value is identified. Information specifying the identified mechanism element and the calculated value of the variable is transmit to a second simulator, which executes the kinematic simulation based on the information.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 23, 2003
    Date of Patent: July 8, 2008
    Assignee: Kabushiki Kaisha Toshiba
    Inventors: Koichi Kondo, Mitsunobo Yoshida
  • Patent number: 7395128
    Abstract: A system and method for designing stamping tools that produce parts of desired dimensions. The system and method compensate for post stamping deviations from the desired dimensions in the shape of the tools used to produce the parts. The compensated tools result in nearly ideal parts.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 25, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 1, 2008
    Assignee: Livermore Software Technology Corporation
    Inventors: Xin Hai Zhu, Bradley N Maker
  • Patent number: 7395190
    Abstract: The present invention provides an analytical model preparing apparatus which reduces the user's labor of template selecting operation by selecting and presenting an appropriate template from among a plurality of already prepared templates.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 12, 2002
    Date of Patent: July 1, 2008
    Assignee: Hitachi, Ltd.
    Inventors: Masayuki Hariya, Yoshimitsu Hiro, Yoshiyuki Yamamoto, Hiromitsu Tokisue
  • Patent number: 7392164
    Abstract: Computer program product for supporting a user in designing a sealing system of a hydraulic cylinder by indicating at least one sealing system component related to one of: seals, guide rings and rod end bearings for application in the hydraulic cylinder based on the working conditions of the hydraulic cylinder. The computer program product is arranged to obtain sealing system component information items from a database, including: a sealing system component text information item; a duty level information item; a sealing system component graphic information item; and a rod end information item. The rod end information item includes sealing intensity as a function of environment temperature.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 12, 2002
    Date of Patent: June 24, 2008
    Assignee: Aktiebolaget SKF
    Inventors: Roland Spanner, Jürgen Scholer, Tage Staflund, Niclas Hansson
  • Patent number: 7392165
    Abstract: A simulation system attaches to a configuration database for one or more fully configured nodes of a process control system and copies the modules within those nodes into one or more simulation computers as simulation modules. The simulation system includes an algorithm that automatically creates a reference parameter module for each of the copied nodes that stores a reference parameter for each of the inputs, outputs or other references to signals external to the nodes. In the case of the Fieldbus function blocks, the simulation system automatically creates a function block within the simulation workstation in the protocol of the controller node which mimics the operation of the Fieldbus function block, and then creates the simulation system having those mimicked Fieldbus function blocks operating as if they had originally been configured to be in the controller being simulated, instead of within a field device external to the controller.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 21, 2002
    Date of Patent: June 24, 2008
    Assignee: Fisher-Rosemount Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Mark Nixon, Terrence Blevins, Dennis Stevenson, Michael Lucas
  • Publication number: 20080147365
    Abstract: A methodology and system is disclosed which addresses outstanding needs of refiners to process cheaper crudes or blends of crudes. This method and system comprises a number of steps, including characterizing the impact of various constituents in the crude which result in fouling of heat exchangers; estimating model parameters; monitoring and predicting qualitative and quantitative performance; and determining optimal dosage of chemical treatments.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 14, 2006
    Publication date: June 19, 2008
    Inventors: Vijaysai Prasad, Yatin Tayalia, Sunil Shirish Shah, Collin W. Cross
  • Patent number: 7389212
    Abstract: A system and method for interactive design of a product includes the steps of identifying an ideal design solution by identifying an unnecessary design parameter having a predetermined significant influence on a variable design response and fixing a predetermined nominal value of the identified unnecessary design parameter at which the variable design response is a minimum and the product design is an uncoupled design or a decoupled design. The method also includes the steps of selecting a most robust ideal design solution from the identified ideal design solution that is the most uncoupled design or the most decoupled design. The method further includes the steps of optimizing the most robust ideal design solution to obtain a pareto-optimal design solution for use in the design of the product that includes a design parameter having an independent design response.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 22, 2004
    Date of Patent: June 17, 2008
    Assignee: Ford Motor Company
    Inventors: Liem Ferryanto, Mahesh Vora, Agus Sudjianto
  • Publication number: 20080133189
    Abstract: Representing a connection between objects in a simulation includes identifying, on a source object to be used in a simulation process, a source point that is available for creating a connection to another object. On a target object, a target point is identified for use in creating the connection. At least one of the source object and the target object is a rigid object. A spring element having respective ends at the source point and the target point is created, and at least one property thereof is set. A system includes an animation module, and a simulation module that performs a simulation process involving creating, and setting a property of, a spring element having respective ends at a source point on the source object and a target point on the target object.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 1, 2006
    Publication date: June 5, 2008
    Applicant: Lucasfilm Entertainment Company Ltd.
    Inventors: Brice Criswell, Karin Cooper, Don Hatch, James Robert Tooley
  • Patent number: 7383164
    Abstract: A system improves the design of artificial implant components for use in joint replacement surgeries. The system includes an anthropometric static image data analyzer, an implant model data generator, a kinematic model simulator, and a dynamic response data analyzer. The implant model data generator may also use image data of a joint in motion for modification of the implant model data used in the kinematic simulation. Dynamic response data generated by the kinematic model simulation is analyzed by the dynamic response data analyzer to generate differential data that may be used to further refine the implant model data.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 23, 2004
    Date of Patent: June 3, 2008
    Assignee: DePuy Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Luke Aram, Daniel Auger, Jordan Lee, Adam Hayden
  • Publication number: 20080126041
    Abstract: Systems and methods for medical tool auto-capture are described. One described system for simulation of a medical procedure comprises a first grasper comprising a first grasper proximal end and a first grasper distal end. The system further comprises a first sensor coupled to the first grasper distal end and configured to identify a first medical tool approaching the first sensor, wherein the first grasper is configured to automatically grasp the first medical tool upon the first sensor identifying the first medical tool. The system also comprises an actuator to provide a haptic effect to a user.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 16, 2007
    Publication date: May 29, 2008
    Inventors: Peter Maspoli, John Michael Brown, Robert F. Cohen
  • Publication number: 20080124681
    Abstract: The present invention relates to an automatic tooth movement measuring method employing a three dimensional reverse engineering technique; and, more particularly, to an automatic tooth movement measuring method employing three dimensional reverse engineering technique, wherein a tooth movement measuring device capable of measuring a movement status of teeth before and after orthodontic treatment by spatially coordinating a three dimensional digital model of the tooth. According to the present invention, the tooth movement measuring device forms two three dimensional models which change corresponding to the point of time and applies a space coordinate to each model. And, by applying a technique superimposing each model, the tooth movement can be measured quantitatively and qualitatively.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 6, 2007
    Publication date: May 29, 2008
    Applicant: Kangnung National University Industry Academy Corporation Group
    Inventor: Bong-Kuen Cha
  • Publication number: 20080126040
    Abstract: A method is described for determining the effectiveness of maintenance or other improvements to a system having multiple sections and multiple modes of failure. The method uses simulation model that is dynamic in that it can change during a simulation run to show how a system event such as a failure of one system section can effect a different system section. By running the simulation model multiple times, it may become apparent which system section will benefit most from maintenance or other improvements.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 23, 2006
    Publication date: May 29, 2008
    Inventors: Kent A. Franklin, William J. Raynor
  • Publication number: 20080120074
    Abstract: The invention increases the fidelity of gas turbine engine module performance estimates that in turn enhance performance tracking and visibility. The methodology obviates input signal filtering since filtering may mask the onset and detection of a rapid measurement shift indicative of serious engine performance issues. The invention supports trend detection processes for timely detection, isolation and alerting of performance and engine system related faults.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 17, 2006
    Publication date: May 22, 2008
    Inventor: Allan J. Volponi
  • Patent number: 7376540
    Abstract: An analytical shell-model producing apparatus for converting a three-dimensional model into internal surfaces, wherein an internal surface is used to represent each three-dimensional element of the three-dimensional model. Each internal surface comprises a bounded plane and an associated width attribute, wherein the bounded plane is located internal to the three-dimensional element which it represents, and wherein the associated width attribute represents the width of the three-dimensional element in a direction normal to the bounded plane.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 28, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 20, 2008
    Assignee: Hitachi, Ltd.
    Inventors: Makoto Onodera, Yoshimitsu Hiro
  • Patent number: 7373286
    Abstract: A computer-implemented method generates a computer model of one or more teeth by receiving as input a digital data set of meshes representing the teeth; selecting a curved coordinate system with mappings to and from a 3D space; and generating a function in the curved coordinate system to represent each tooth.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 21, 2001
    Date of Patent: May 13, 2008
    Assignee: Align Technology, Inc.
    Inventors: Sergey Nikolskiy, Elena Pavloskaia, Huafeng Wen
  • Publication number: 20080109745
    Abstract: The present system includes a standard circuit selection processing means for selecting a cylinder operating system based on input data, and independent characteristic calculation processing means for calculating characteristics of the cylinder operating system based on entered usage conditions, a branching and joining circuit processing means for selecting a branching and joining circuit based on input data and calculating characteristics of the selected branching and joining circuit, a manifold circuit processing means for selecting a manifold circuit based on input data and calculating characteristics of the selected manifold circuit, and a shock absorber selection processing means for selecting a shock absorber based on input data and/or a selection result from the standard circuit selection processing means.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 11, 2005
    Publication date: May 8, 2008
    Applicant: SMC KABUSHIKI KAISHA
    Inventors: Huping Zhang, Mitsuru Senoo, Naotake Oneyama
  • Publication number: 20080109195
    Abstract: A system and method for readily generating radial clearance data for a radial clearance between locations on at least two parts in a rotating machine includes rendering an image of a cross section view of at least a portion of the machine on a display. The locations on the two parts are identified on the rendered cross section, and a radial stack path between the identified locations is automatically determined. The radial clearance between the identified locations when the machine is not operating is determined, based at least in part on the determined radial stack path. Data generated by a deflection analysis model of the machine are used to determine radial deflections of the identified locations during machine operation at one or more machine operating conditions. Data representative of the radial clearance between the identified locations during the machine operation at the one or more machine operating conditions are generated.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 2, 2006
    Publication date: May 8, 2008
    Inventors: Dave G. Dischinger, Charles P. Silcox, Amitabh Tandon, Muralidharan Kendai, Karthikeswaran K. Kalusivalingam
  • Patent number: 7369976
    Abstract: A design of a tire can be facilitated. An optimization apparatus 30 inputs known design parameters of the shape, structure, and pattern of a tire, and performances thereof by an experimental data input unit 40 and learns, as a conversion system of a neural network, a correlation between design parameters of the shape, structure, and pattern of the tire, and performances thereof. Ranges which constrain performances of the tire and design parameters of the shape, structure, and pattern of the tire, which are to be optimized, are inputted in an optimization item input unit 42, and the performances of the tire are predicted in an optimization calculation unit 34 from the design parameters of the shape, structure, and pattern of the tire by using the optimization item and models of the calculation unit 32, and an objective function is optimized until the objective function which is the performances of the tire is converged.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 8, 1997
    Date of Patent: May 6, 2008
    Assignee: Bridgestone Corporation
    Inventor: Yukio Nakajima