Miscellaneous Patents (Class 73/432.1)
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Patent number: 7554881Abstract: A technique includes obtaining seismic data, which was acquired during a seismic survey in seawater. The technique includes based on the seismic data, determining a conductivity of the seawater and processing data obtained from an electromagnetics-based survey based on the determined conductivity.Type: GrantFiled: July 31, 2007Date of Patent: June 30, 2009Assignee: WesternGeco L.L.C.Inventors: Richard T. Coates, Steve A. Horne
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Patent number: 7549985Abstract: A method and system to create and acoustically manipulate without destroying a microbubble which, in biological applications, can manipulate structures such as cells and subcellular structures at a nanoscopic scale.Type: GrantFiled: June 25, 2003Date of Patent: June 23, 2009Assignee: The Regents of the University of MichiganInventor: Matthew O'Donnell
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Patent number: 7540189Abstract: A method for detection of a variable parameter of a vehicle with the aid of a measurement device, by which measured values are evaluated as sensor signals of at least one sensor element which is arranged in the immediate vicinity of an actuating element with an electrical drive, in which no evaluation of the measured values is carried out or performed during an influencing time period between a time of a change in the electrical drive for the actuating element and a time in which this change is essentially still just exerting an influence on the measured values.Type: GrantFiled: May 9, 2005Date of Patent: June 2, 2009Assignee: KNORR-BREMSE Systeme für Nutzfahrzeuge GmbHInventor: Dieter Woerner
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Patent number: 7487678Abstract: A microelectromechanical system (MEMS) device with a mechanism layer and a base. The top surface of the base is bonded to the mechanism layer and defines a gap in the top surface of the base. A portion of the mechanism layer is deflected into the gap until it contacts the base, and is bonded to the base.Type: GrantFiled: December 13, 2006Date of Patent: February 10, 2009Assignee: Honeywell International Inc.Inventors: Michael J. Foster, Shifang Zhou
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Patent number: 7474225Abstract: A system and method for continuously monitoring the intake of a fresh water system to detect pathogens, chemicals, and other biological contaminants. The apparatus consists of a number of monitoring and containment facilities which are inserted into a fresh water intake pipe at various locations. The monitoring and containment facilities detect a hazard in the incoming water, send a signal to shut down the main intake pump, and collect samples of water immediately adjacent the monitoring and containment facility that detected the hazard. A signal may also be sent to a regulatory agency and to the Department of Homeland Security. The method consists of conducting a qualitative and quantitative analysis of water in a fresh water intake pipe; testing for hazards, and shutting down the main intake pump if a sufficient level of hazard is detected. The method also consists of collecting water samples for later analysis and of notifying the appropriate agencies.Type: GrantFiled: September 15, 2005Date of Patent: January 6, 2009Assignee: J.F. AquaticsInventor: Frank J. Frosolone
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Patent number: 7421894Abstract: An embodiment of the present invention provides a surface sensor system comprising a wet/dry sensor assembly, an electrically isolated passive sensor assembly, a thermally adjustable active sensor assembly, at least one temperature sensor, and a data processing device coupled together as a unit positionable adjacent to a surface, such as an outdoor surface. The unit is configured to determine the presence a surface material containing water or a water-based mixture on the surface and the solid or liquid phase of the surface material.Type: GrantFiled: August 18, 2006Date of Patent: September 9, 2008Inventors: Dale Keep, Lance Doyle
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Patent number: 7398693Abstract: The present invention generally relates to methods for the rapid thermal processing (RTP) of a substrate. Embodiments of the invention include controlling a thermal process using either a real-time adaptive control algorithm or by using a control algorithm that is selected from a suite of fixed control algorithms designed for a variety of substrate types. Selection of the control algorithm is based on optical properties of the substrate measured during the thermal process. In one embodiment, a combination of control algorithms are used, wherein the majority of lamp groupings are controlled with a fixed control algorithm and a substantially smaller number of lamp zones are controlled by an adaptive control algorithm.Type: GrantFiled: March 30, 2006Date of Patent: July 15, 2008Assignee: Applied Materials, Inc.Inventors: Joseph Michael Ranish, Tarpan Dixit, Dean Jennings, Balasubramanian Ramachandran, Aaron Hunter, Wolfgang Aderhold, Bruce Adams, Wen Teh Chang
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Patent number: 7389689Abstract: The present invention include non-porous adherent coatings of chemically inert high purity poly-oligomers deposited on substrates. The coatings are applied and cured on the substrates at relatively low temperatures which permits the coating process to be performed with temperature sensitive structures such as magnets, electronic circuits, electrodes, and bonding pads in place on the substrate. Coated substrates, such as sensors and fluid conduits, have an effective thickness of the protective non-porous coating that is chemically bonded to a surface of the substrate that will be contacted with a fluid. The adherent non-porous coating on the substrate protect it from corrosion, particle generation, swelling, or delamination caused by contact with the fluid.Type: GrantFiled: February 22, 2005Date of Patent: June 24, 2008Assignee: Entegris, Inc.Inventors: Christopher J. Wargo, Karl Niermeyer
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Publication number: 20080141772Abstract: Systems and methods applicable, for example, in distance functionality. Distances might, for instance, be ascertained. One or more heights, one or more optical values, information corresponding to orientation, and/or one or more values corresponding to captured images might, for example, be employed. Ascertained distances might, for example, be updated. An area captured by a device of a first user might, for instance, be recognized as captured by a device of a second user. Such recognition might, for example involve the use of one or more distances between the two users.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 13, 2006Publication date: June 19, 2008Applicant: Nokia CorporationInventors: Markus Kahari, David J. Murphy, Yka Huhtala
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Patent number: 7369947Abstract: A test method for measuring adsorbed molecular contamination uses a test structure that includes a substrate comprising a plurality of separated test sites having a plurality separate thicknesses having a base design thickness and a designed thickness interrelationship. The test structure is exposed to a molecular contaminant environment to provide an adsorbed molecular contaminant layer upon each of the plurality of separated test sites. The plurality of separated test sites with the adsorbed molecular contaminant layer thereon is measured. An appropriate algorithm that considers the designed thickness interrelationship is used to determine at least one of: (1) the base design thickness; and (2) a thickness of the adsorbed molecular contaminant layer.Type: GrantFiled: June 13, 2006Date of Patent: May 6, 2008Assignee: International Business Machines, CorporationInventors: Lin Zhou, Eric P. Solecky
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Publication number: 20080072963Abstract: The invention relates to a method for introducing a pig-like tool into an operating pipeline, such as a fluid pipe. According to the invention the pipeline is drilled during operation and the tool is injected into the pipeline through the drilled hole. During a corresponding tool removal from the pipeline a method is provided for prereconnaissance for the determination of a degree of contamination, cleaning, surveying, inspecting, repairing, etc. of pipelines by means of a corresponding, pig-like tool. The invention also relates to a device and a tool permitting the performance of the inventive method. Thus, otherwise unpiggable pipelines can be worked in a cost-efficient manner.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 28, 2004Publication date: March 27, 2008Applicant: PII PIPETRONIX GMBHInventors: Uwe Strohmeier, Gunnar Kopp
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Publication number: 20080062411Abstract: An apparatus and associated method for measuring spatial characteristics of a test object with stacked features. First and second measurement assemblies for measuring opposing first and second planar features, respectively, of a test object, by directing light beams into a gap between the features to measure a position and a static attitude of each feature.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 29, 2007Publication date: March 13, 2008Applicant: Seagate Technology LLCInventors: Ronald Jacob Smith, John George Gerogeorge, Sham Sunder Nayar, Mark Curtis Fahrendorff, Shawn Stephen Silewski
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Patent number: 7337663Abstract: A system for processing a workpiece includes a base having a bowl or recess for holding a processing fluid. A sonic energy source, such as a megasonic transducer, provides sonic energy into a processing fluid in the bowl. A process head holds a workpiece. A process head lifter lowers the head holding the workpiece into the processing fluid in the bowl. Sonic energy is provided to the workpiece through the processing fluid, optionally while the processing head spins the workpiece. The processing fluid may include de-ionized water and an etchant.Type: GrantFiled: March 11, 2005Date of Patent: March 4, 2008Assignee: Semitool, Inc.Inventors: Paul Z. Wirth, Dana R. Scranton, Brian Aegerter
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Patent number: 7328613Abstract: The invention relates to a profile element which can be flexibly connected to other adjacent profile elements in order to form a roller blind. The profile element includes a front side and a rear side which are arranged at a distance from each other and at least one cavity is arranged therebetween, wherein an opening made therein leads into the front wall thereof and a sound-absorbing material is arranged therein. The aim of the invention is to improve the profile element in the above-mentioned manner, especially with respect to the sound-insulating properties thereof. The inventive profile element can be produced by virtue of the fact that the sound-absorbing material part includes at least one sound reduction element which can be displaced at least in the region of the opening in order to open towards and away from the path thereof.Type: GrantFiled: May 19, 2004Date of Patent: February 12, 2008Assignee: Rehau AG & Co.Inventors: Christian Völkel, Stefan Bräuer, Klaus Griesshammer
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Publication number: 20070283757Abstract: A test method for measuring adsorbed molecular contamination uses a test structure that includes a substrate comprising a plurality of separated test sites having a plurality separate thicknesses having a base design thickness and a designed thickness interrelationship. The test structure is exposed to a molecular contaminant environment to provide an adsorbed molecular contaminant layer upon each of the plurality of separated test sites. The plurality of separated test sites with the adsorbed molecular contaminant layer thereon is measured. An appropriate algorithm that considers the designed thickness interrelationship is used to determine at least one of: (1) the base design thickness; and (2) a thickness of the adsorbed molecular contaminant layer.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 13, 2006Publication date: December 13, 2007Applicant: INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS MACHINES CORPORATIONInventors: Lin Zhou, Eric P. Solecky
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Patent number: 7272528Abstract: A test and measurement instrument such as a Logic Analyzer, or the like, has at least one Reloadable Word Recognizer whose reference value can be loaded by a trigger machine with a current acquired data sample while data is being acquired. In a second embodiment useful for performing memory testing, the reloadable word recognizer is used in cooperation with two conventional word recognizers. In a third embodiment, a delay unit is employed to provide delayed input data words as reference words. In a fourth embodiment, an offset register and adder are used to modify the input data words before storing them. A fifth embodiment provides for substantially immediate use of base addresses of relocatable subroutines and stack-based variables recovered from a data stream acquired from a system under test.Type: GrantFiled: September 23, 2002Date of Patent: September 18, 2007Assignee: Tektronix, Inc.Inventors: David A. Holaday, Gary K. Richmond, Donald C. Kirkpatrick
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Patent number: 7251592Abstract: A method for analyzing performance of an airfoil includes determining: an estimated laminar separation location; a freestream turbulence intensity; a momentum thickness; and a turbulence length scale. Based upon the freestream turbulence intensity, momentum thickness, and turbulence length scale, a first momentum thickness Reynolds number associated with a first estimated laminar/turbulent boundary transition location along the airfoil is determined. If the estimated laminar separation location is downstream of the first estimated transition, the first estimated transition is used to determine a spatial domain for running a turbulent flow model. If the estimated laminar separation location is upstream of the first estimated transition, a second estimated transition location is used to determine a spatial domain for running the turbulent flow model.Type: GrantFiled: August 18, 2004Date of Patent: July 31, 2007Assignee: United Technologies CorporationInventors: Thomas J. Praisner, Eric A. Grover
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Patent number: 7243051Abstract: The present invention is to provide a system for measuring the similarity between protein profile matrices which is suitably used for predicting a protein three-dimensional structure.Type: GrantFiled: December 26, 2003Date of Patent: July 10, 2007Assignee: National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science and TechnologyInventor: Kentaro Tomii
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Patent number: 7237436Abstract: The present invention comprises a device and methods for dissolution or immersion testing and, in particular, a device and methods that improve the consistency of test results by limiting the ability of pharmaceutical or other dosage forms to move or reorient during testing.Type: GrantFiled: March 20, 2006Date of Patent: July 3, 2007Inventors: Dacheng Tian, Xiu Xiu Cheng, Jack Cardinal, Boyong Li, Avinash Nangia
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Patent number: 7207220Abstract: A fluid coupling comprises a compliant material, a seal gland having at least one projection configured to contact the compliant material, and a cover plate configured to compress the compliant material into the gland, thus forcing the compliant material against the projection.Type: GrantFiled: February 15, 2005Date of Patent: April 24, 2007Assignee: Agilent Technologies, Inc.Inventors: Clayton E. Law, Richard P. White, Sammye E. Miller
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Patent number: 7152472Abstract: A press-in portion (11) of a press-fit terminal (10) is held by jigs (21) from opposite sides along a direction substantially normal to the longitudinal direction of the press-in portion (11), and a load (F) acting on the movable jig (21b) and a displacement amount of the movable jig (21b) are measured at this time and the measurement data are written in a data table for terminal. Then, a load (Fp) at a point of coincidence of the data table for circuit board written with the load (F) necessary to widen a hole (H) of a circuit board (K) and a hole diameter of the widened hole (H) and a data table for terminal obtained by the measurement is obtained. Whether the load (Fp) at the point of coincidence lies within a judgment reference range is judged and this judgment result is displayed on a display (44).Type: GrantFiled: October 26, 2004Date of Patent: December 26, 2006Assignee: Sumitomo Wiring Systems, Ltd.Inventor: Masahiro Yokono
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Patent number: 7150427Abstract: In the computational fluid dynamics analysis of airfoils, a laminar/turbulent transition location is determined by consideration of a turbulence length scale in addition to a turbulence intensity. In an exemplary implementation, the transition is predicted as occurring when a momentum thickness-based Reynolds number reaches a given exponent of the factor multiplied by a constant. The factor may consist of the turbulence intensity multiplied by a momentum thickness and divided by the turbulence length scale.Type: GrantFiled: August 18, 2004Date of Patent: December 19, 2006Assignee: United Technologies CorporationInventors: Thomas J. Praisner, John P. Clark
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Patent number: 7100707Abstract: An intact core sample from a soil area, such as a golf green or a ball field, is embedded in molded plastic. The core sample first is obtained, and then adhesively bonded together prior to molding it in clear plastic to preserve the soil core sample in an intact and durable fashion for subsequent visual examination of the composition of the soil core sample.Type: GrantFiled: January 16, 2004Date of Patent: September 5, 2006Inventor: Harold Howard
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Patent number: 7000476Abstract: An inclination angle measurement apparatus includes a first ultrasonic sensor (3) for sending an ultrasonic wave toward a reflective object (2), second and third ultrasonic sensors (4 and 5) each for receiving an ultrasonic wave reflected from the reflective object (2), and a calculation control circuit (14) for calculating an angle of inclination of a moving object with respect to the reflective object (2) based on a phase difference between ultrasonic waves received by the second and third ultrasonic sensors (4 and 5). Thus the inclination angle measurement apparatus can accurately measure the angle of inclination of the moving object with respect to the reflective object (2).Type: GrantFiled: February 6, 2003Date of Patent: February 21, 2006Assignee: Mitsubishi Denki Kabushiki KaishaInventor: Yoshio Katayama
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Patent number: 6974524Abstract: Apparatus and methods for measuring characteristics of a metallic target as well as other interior surfaces of a sputtering chamber. The apparatus includes a sensor configured to emit an energy beam toward a surface of interest and to detect an energy beam therefrom, the detected energy beam being indicative of parameters of a characteristic of interest of the surface of interest. Quantitative and qualitative characteristics of interest may be determined. A sputtering system including the apparatus and operable according to the methods of the invention is also disclosed.Type: GrantFiled: June 27, 2003Date of Patent: December 13, 2005Assignee: Micron Technology, Inc.Inventors: Mark A. Jaso, Terry L. Gilton
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Patent number: 6948388Abstract: A sensing system includes a ring oscillator that emits electromagnetic radiation at a characteristic frequency. The ring oscillator comprises an odd number plurality of inverters that are electrically connected in series. The sensing system also comprises a temperature stabilized voltage source that is used to supply voltage to the inverters of the ring oscillator. A sensing load for sensing a change in a preselected environmental condition is operably connected to the ring oscillator. When the load senses the preselected environmental condition, the sensing load alters the characteristic frequency of the ring oscillator and hence the electromagnetic radiation as emitted by the ring oscillator. A pick-up antenna receives the electromagnetic radiation as emitted by the ring oscillator and detection electronics, operably coupled to the pick-up antenna, measure the frequency of the electromagnetic radiation as received by the pick-up antenna.Type: GrantFiled: December 18, 2003Date of Patent: September 27, 2005Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the NavyInventors: Stanley R. Clayton, Stephen D. Russell, Mark R. Roser, Richard L. Waters
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Patent number: 6865802Abstract: A dynamic test fixture has a support frame (3) whose dimensions (31) in the direction of a transverse axis (y) are smaller than a distance between the wheels of a vehicle (8). Via a first unit (71a, 71b, 71c) of a controllable adjusting device (7), the support frame (3) is displaced approximately vertically underneath the vehicle (8) so that the vehicle (8) is moved into a raised testing position. A second unit of the controllable adjusting device (7) acts on the support frame (3) in such a way that the vehicle (8) is moved into at least one position (Nx, Ny) that deviates from the horizontal position. A third unit (73) influences the support frame (3) in such a way that the vehicle (8), which it is situated in the raised testing position, is briefly rotated about a vertical axis (z). The test fixture is advantageously used to test a stabilizing system (ESP device) of the vehicle (8).Type: GrantFiled: October 1, 2001Date of Patent: March 15, 2005Assignee: Siemens AktiengesellschaftInventors: Sascha Lenzen, Klaus Wolfrum, Goetz Knupfer, Bernhard Flaig, Karl Seyberth, Gero Wittig
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Patent number: 6862935Abstract: A case of tilt angle measuring apparatus is composed of a case body for housing ultrasonic sensors and a cover for covering a top of the case body, and the case body includes a bottom plate having windows for exposing the ultrasonic wave transmitting/receiving faces of the ultrasonic sensors, a side plate extending upward from the peripheral edge of the bottom plate and abutting against the bottom surface of the cover, and horn parts extending downward from the bottom plate so as to surrounding the windows.Type: GrantFiled: September 26, 2003Date of Patent: March 8, 2005Assignee: Mitsubishi Denki Kabushiki KaishaInventors: Akiharu Fukuda, Takashi Ohsawa
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Patent number: 6848314Abstract: A device (10) for receiving date transmitted as impulses through an input transmission body (16) is provided. The device (10) has a vibration sensitive transducer (50) which constitutes part of a floating mass assembly (40) with a pick-up portion (42). The pick-up portion (42) is biased towards a surface of a rigid body that is either the input transmission body (16) or a vibrations transmissive member (151). The assembly (40) has a freedom of movement permitting it to vibrate independently from the rigid body.Type: GrantFiled: February 9, 2001Date of Patent: February 1, 2005Inventor: Ilan Goldman
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Patent number: 6820468Abstract: A fixture for holding a gas turbine engine blade having an airfoil extending outward from a shank and a dovetail extending inward from the shank for attaching the blade to a disk of the engine. The dovetail includes at least one pair of protrusions extending fore and aft along opposite sides of the blade. Each of the protrusions including a pressure face generally facing the airfoil of the blade for engaging the disk to retain the blade in the disk during operation of the engine. The fixture includes a support for receiving the dovetail and a clamp mounted adjacent the support for movement between a clamped position in which the clamp engages the dovetail to hold the dovetail against the support and a released position in which the clamp disengages the dovetail to permit removal of the blade from the fixture.Type: GrantFiled: March 26, 2001Date of Patent: November 23, 2004Assignee: General Electric CompanyInventors: John Matthew Powers, Brian Dudley Dorrel
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Patent number: 6813947Abstract: The product comprises a sensor (1) via which a measured quantity that corresponds to reactive resistance can be furnished within a measuring range. The product also comprises a matching network (2) and a surface wave element (3). The sensor (1) is connected to a first reflector (4) of the surface wave element (3) via the matching network (2). The first reflector (4) forms, together with the matching network (2) and the sensor (1), a resonator which, for a value of the measured quantity within the measuring range, has a resonance with regard to a reflection of an acoustic surface wave on the first reflector (4). The invention also relates to a method for determining the measured quantity and to a corresponding system.Type: GrantFiled: February 17, 2004Date of Patent: November 9, 2004Assignee: Siemens AktiengesellschaftInventors: Franz Dollinger, Gernot Schimetta
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Publication number: 20040134275Abstract: A method for measuring and/or machining a workpiece (1, 2), especially modules in building construction by means of a measuring and/or machining device (30) is presented, in which the workpiece (1, 2) is determined in a first coordinate system (21) with the aid of at least one determining [detection] device (10) and that the measuring and/or machining device (30), that can move relative to the workpiece (1, 2), is determined in a second coordinate system (22) independently of the position and the shape of the workpiece (1, 2). The coordinates of the workpiece (1, 2) on the one hand, and the coordinates of the measuring and/or machining device (30) on the other hand, are brought into a relationship with each other by a computer (40) in order to control the measuring and/or machining device (30) for measuring and machining the workpiece (1, 2).Type: ApplicationFiled: January 30, 2004Publication date: July 15, 2004Inventors: Dieter Reichel, Jurgen Feix, Erich Lindner, Ralf Waidhauser
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Patent number: 6698285Abstract: The present invention relates to a device for measuring the amount of liquid that a packaging unit, or cleaning pad, designed to absorb and/or adsorb liquid that is being transported or was spilled or was released. The packaging unit or pad has at least one sealing multi-layer comprising a first water soluble film and an absorbent/adsorbent material. When the liquid contacts the water soluble film, the liquid passes through the water-soluble film. When the liquid contacts the absorbent/adsorbent material, the absorbent/adsorbent material immobilizes the liquid material. This immobilization prevents the liquid from escaping from the absorbent/adsorbent material. The pad/packaging unit is then measured by the instant device to determine the amount of liquid obtained.Type: GrantFiled: April 27, 2000Date of Patent: March 2, 2004Assignee: Technicor, Inc.Inventor: Michael Hacikyan
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Patent number: 6684681Abstract: A mechanical ultrasonic device that includes a housing assembly, a mechanical vibration assembly disposed within the housing assembly, and having an impact member. The mechanical vibration assembly is structured to vibrate the impact member at a frequency between about 5 kHz to 40 kHz. The impact member may be brought into contact with a test object thereby causing the ultrasonic vibration, or high frequency sonic vibration, to be transmitted through the test object.Type: GrantFiled: September 6, 2002Date of Patent: February 3, 2004Assignee: Siemens Westinghouse Power CorporationInventor: Paul Zombo
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Publication number: 20030221486Abstract: A testing apparatus is disclosed that includes an expandable mechanical structure, and logging devices that are coupled to the mechanical structure and serially networked together. The testing apparatus of the present invention is utilized to accommodate storage units, such as refrigerators, freezers and incubators, of various sizes.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 30, 2002Publication date: December 4, 2003Inventors: Bryan M. Elwood, Charles G. Butts, Walter Jeff Tipton
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Publication number: 20030213300Abstract: A sensor tube for determining a concentration profile of a substance along a certain distance. The invention provides that an outer, hard, pressure-resistant tube is lined on the inside by a diffusion layer which is permeable to the substance. Holes extending from outside to the diffusion layer are arranged in the outer tube.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 6, 2003Publication date: November 20, 2003Inventor: Peter Jax
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Patent number: 6644118Abstract: A low-power, inexpensive acoustic apparatus for levitation and/or concentration of aerosols and small liquid/solid samples having particulates up to several millimeters in diameter in air or other fluids is described. It is constructed from a commercially available, hollow piezoelectric crystal which has been formed with a cylindrical cross-section to tune the resonance frequency of the breathing mode resonance of the crystal to that of the interior cavity of the cylinder. When the resonance frequency of the interior cylindrical cavity is matched to the breathing mode resonance of the cylindrical piezoelectric transducer, the acoustic efficiency for establishing a standing wave pattern in the cavity is high. By deforming the circular cross-section of the transducer, the acoustic force is concentrated along axial regions parallel to the axis of the transducer. The cylinder does not require accurate alignment of a resonant cavity.Type: GrantFiled: September 13, 2002Date of Patent: November 11, 2003Assignee: The Regents of the University of CaliforniaInventors: Gregory Kaduchak, Dipen N. Sinha
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Patent number: 6622558Abstract: A method and sensor for detecting strain using shape memory alloys is disclosed. The sensor comprises a substrate material, a flexible diaphragm provided on the substrate material and a thin film SMA material deposited on the flexible diaphragm. The thin film SMA material is capable of undergoing a phase transformation in response to a physical stimulus being applied thereto. During such a phase transformation, a change occurs in the electrical resistance of the thin film SMA material. By measuring the value of the electrical resistance of the thin film SMA material immediately before and after the thin film SMA material undergoes a phase transformation, the difference in the value of the electrical resistance can be determined and utilized to determine the magnitude of the physical stimulus that was applied to the thin film SMA material causing it to undergo a phase transformation.Type: GrantFiled: November 30, 2000Date of Patent: September 23, 2003Assignee: Orbital Research Inc.Inventors: Michael A. Huff, William L. Benard, Frederick J. Lisy, Troy S. Prince
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Publication number: 20030154766Abstract: The present invention relates to detection and alarm systems for predicting and detecting the location of spills, leaks, emissions, and/or pollution sources, i.e., unwanted fluid (liquid/gas) flow/escape, at refineries, e.g., oiland gas refineries, and plants, e.g., petrochemical, chemical, pharmaceutical, and food processing plants, and avoiding said unwanted flow/escape. According to one embodiment, said system comprises at least one detector, at least one battery powered radio frequency transmitter, preferably, according to one embodiment, a 900 megahertz spread spectrum transmitter, and a central processing location which, according to one embodiment, is preferably capable of handling up to 3000 points in a single cell site.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 18, 2003Publication date: August 21, 2003Inventors: Rick A. Lawson, Michael S. Kelly
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Patent number: 6598477Abstract: A method of predicting warp of lumber that might be sawn from any given log is disclosed. The method involves measurement of stress wave velocity in the tree stem. A scan is then made to define the exterior geometric configuration of the log. In particular, measurements relating to lack of longitudinal axis linearity (sweep) or irregularity of cross sections of the log are important. Stress wave values and selected geometric parameters are entered into a multivariate regression equation to predict warp propensity of lumber that might be sawn from the log. The equations are originally derived by examination of a representative population of logs of the particular species and locale and measurement of warp in lumber sawn from the logs. Logs determined to produce warp prone lumber can be isolated and used to produce other products such as timbers or plywood where warp is not as critical.Type: GrantFiled: October 31, 2001Date of Patent: July 29, 2003Assignee: Weyerhaeuser CompanyInventor: Stanley L. Floyd
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Patent number: 6591497Abstract: A catalytic converter is constructed by measuring a substrate to be placed within the outer shell or can, wrapping the substrate in a selected mat and loading the package (mat and substrate) into the can. The can is larger than it will be at completion of manufacture to render such loading easier. Subsequent to loading, the measurement of the substrate is used to direct the degree to which the can is reduced in outside dimension such that a selected annulus is created between the substrate and can, said annulus being occupied by said mat.Type: GrantFiled: August 27, 1998Date of Patent: July 15, 2003Assignee: Delphi Technologies, Inc.Inventors: Michael Ralph Foster, Stephen Joe Myers, Robert Anthony Lawrence
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Publication number: 20030121327Abstract: An apparatus for heat stress testing canisters having bodies and valve assemblies, including a heating zone, such as an induction coil system for heating the canisters, and a conveying assembly for conveying the longitudinal axis of each canister in a generally vertical orientation relative to the longitudinal axis of the heating zone, the canisters being positioned partially within the heating zone during the heat testing, such that, each canister's body is positioned substantially inside of the heating zone and each canister's valve assembly is positioned substantially or completely outside of the heating zone.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 7, 2002Publication date: July 3, 2003Applicant: Schering CorporationInventors: Pius H. Tse, Mahesh G. Kulkarni, John M. Jew
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Publication number: 20030115956Abstract: An apparatus and method for recording the environmental conditions within a container during transportation or periods of extended storage, the container for receiving semiconductor wafers or other sensitive components.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 1, 2002Publication date: June 26, 2003Inventors: Stephanie J. Moehnke, James N.L. Pedersen, Wayne C. Olson, William J. Shaner, Connie E. Barela, Philip S. Glynn
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Patent number: 6581462Abstract: The invention relates to a method of detecting an internal arc in a metal-clad electrical link, wherein the rising edge of the internal pressure surge generated by the arc and propagating inside the cladding is detected at a fixed location along the cladding. The invention also relates to a device comprising at least one one-way detection unit constituted by a pressure sensor disposed outside the cladding and connected to the inside the cladding via a horn-shaped duct which slopes relative to the axis of the cladding, which has its mouth opening out in the cladding, and which has its tip connected to the pressure sensor.Type: GrantFiled: July 1, 2002Date of Patent: June 24, 2003Assignee: Alstom HoldingsInventor: Jean Marmonier
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Publication number: 20030101796Abstract: The pumping current source (P) required for operating the linear lambda probe is wired in such a manner that its inverting input is connected to the third probe terminal (Vp+), its non-inverting input is connected to the potential of the mean voltage (VM), and that its output is connected to the second probe terminal (Vp−/Vs−).Type: ApplicationFiled: December 16, 2002Publication date: June 5, 2003Inventor: Stephan Bolz
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Patent number: 6561005Abstract: A procedure for detecting microparticles released by at least one dispenser, encompassing the following steps: (a) triggering the dispenser over an oscillation target (20) with a sensor material (21), so that at least one microparticle hits the sensor material (21) and excites an acoustic wave, (b) detecting the acoustic wave with at least one oscillation sensor (31) connected with the sensor material (21), which emits an electrical sensor signal when the acoustic wave arrives, and (c) evaluating the sensor signal to determine the impact of the microparticle. The procedure is aimed at detecting the impact and/or impact positions of microparticles on a target. A detector for executing the procedure is also described.Type: GrantFiled: January 5, 2001Date of Patent: May 13, 2003Assignee: Max-Planck-Gesellschaft zur ForderungInventors: Martin Müller, Rudolf Germer, Markus Kalkum, Holger Eickhoff
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Publication number: 20030079542Abstract: Methods and systems for preventing degradation of a sensor exposed to a harsh fluid, such as one that might corrode or be exposed to radioactive contaminants, live pathogens, freezing temperatures, overheating, particle deposition or condensable vapors is disclosed. An auxiliary purge stream of comparatively clean fluid or purge fluid is utilized, which flows past the sensor in opposition to the harsh fluid, thereby preventing the harsh fluid from contacting and degrading the sensor. The clean fluid itself may comprise a purge gas, such as clean, dry air, or a liquid that is compatible with the composition of the harsh fluid. The flow and pressure of the clean fluid can be adjusted utilizing one or more supply regulator valves.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 30, 2001Publication date: May 1, 2003Inventors: Ulrich Bonne, Jamie Speldrich
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Patent number: 6526830Abstract: A method and a device for monitoring a bearing arrangement, having at least one bearing, in a mounting element of a roller journal bearing of a roller in a stand of a rolling mill train are designed to initiate upkeep or repair work on the bearing arrangement at the correct time. The method involves measuring a process quantity at the bearing or in an area adjoining the bearing, providing an evaluation device with the measured value of the process quantity, comparing the measured value with a stored preset value, and triggering a signal as soon as the measured value exceeds or falls below the stored preset value.Type: GrantFiled: April 17, 2001Date of Patent: March 4, 2003Assignee: SKF GmbHInventors: Jürgen Scholl, Rüdiger Sontheimer
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Patent number: 6506124Abstract: A method for a predicting golfer's performance is disclosed herein The method inputs the pre-impact swing properties of a golfer, a plurality of mass properties of a first golf club, and a plurality of mass properties of a first golf ball into a rigid body code. Ball launch parameters are generated from the rigid body. The ball launch parameters, a plurality of atmospheric conditions and lift and drag properties of the golf ball are inputted into a trajectory code. This trajectory code is used to predict the performance of a golf ball if struck by the golfer with the golf club under the atmospheric conditions. The method can then predict the performance of the golf ball if struck by the golfer with a different golf club. The method and system of the present invention predict the performance of the golf ball without the golfer actually striking the golf ball.Type: GrantFiled: December 21, 2001Date of Patent: January 14, 2003Assignee: Callaway Golf CompanyInventors: Scott R. Manwaring, Frank H. Fan, Peter Ligotti, III
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Patent number: 6497798Abstract: The instant invention provides a vibration insensitive method of precisely polishing an object. The method includes the steps of providing an object to be polished, applying a conductive material to a non-electrical current conductive surface of the object, removing a portion of the object and the conductive material through polishing, and measuring an electric current flowing through the conductive material to monitor a progress of the polishing. Advantageously, the method does not require the polishing process to be interrupted to monitor the progress of the polishing. In fact, since the progress is measured as a function of resistance/electrical current, the progress is measured with an accuracy and precision related to each individual turn of a polishing pad. Advantageously, the instant method is remarkably vibration insensitive and is practical for the simultaneous, automatic, and precise, polishing of monolithic objects.Type: GrantFiled: December 4, 2000Date of Patent: December 24, 2002Assignee: JDS Uniphase Inc.Inventors: Guenadi Rabinski, Eric Saulnier