With Means For Retaining Reading Patents (Class 73/491)
  • Patent number: 11561235
    Abstract: A system for monitoring the axial position of a rotating shaft includes a phonic wheel mounted coaxially to the shaft for rotation with a circumferential row of teeth. The system includes a sensor configured to detect the passage of the teeth by generating an alternating measurement signal. First and second portions of the teeth alternate around the row and contribute respective first and second components to the alternating measurement signal. The first portion of teeth vary in height in an axial direction of the wheel such that the relative height of the first and second portions varies with axial distance across the phonic wheel, and the sensor is positioned relative to the phonic wheel such that axial displacement of the shaft causes the signal to vary the first component's amplitude relative to the second component's amplitude due to the height variation, to monitor the axial position of the shaft.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 21, 2019
    Date of Patent: January 24, 2023
    Assignee: ROLLS-ROYCE plc
    Inventors: Robert N Shepherd, Kevin E Gapper
  • Patent number: 10272304
    Abstract: A golf club includes a golf club head, a shaft adapter secured within a hosel of the golf club head, and a shaft secured within the shaft adapter. The golf club shaft is formed from a fiber reinforced polymer and extends along a longitudinal axis between a tip end and a grip end. The golf club shaft includes a tip end section, a grip end section, and a tapered section between the tip end section and the grip end section. The tapered section of the shaft includes a reference portion within the upper half that has a frustoconical shape with a near-constant taper rate, and a narrowed portion within the lower half. The narrowed portion is recessed relative to a reference surface extrapolated from the frustoconical shape.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 30, 2017
    Date of Patent: April 30, 2019
    Assignee: Karsten Manufacturing Corporation
    Inventors: David S. Kultala, Martin R. Jertson, Ryan M. Stokke
  • Patent number: 8949070
    Abstract: A method or apparatus for monitoring human activity using an inertial sensor is described. The method includes monitoring accelerations, and identifying a current user activity from a plurality of user activities based on the accelerations. In one embodiment, each of the plurality of user activities is associated with one of a plurality of types of periodic human motions that are detectable by the portable electronic device, and wherein the identification of the current user activity is made based on detecting two or more instances of the periodic human motion associated with the user activity. The method further includes counting periodic human motions appropriate to the current user activity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 8, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 3, 2015
    Assignee: DP Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Philippe Richard Kahn, Arthur Kinsolving, Mark Andrew Christensen, Brian Y. Lee, David Vogel
  • Patent number: 8881591
    Abstract: A sensed element is disclosed for incorporation into an apparatus that includes a rotatable shaft. The sensed element includes a base portion mounted directly on the shaft so as to rotate with the shaft, at least one sensor-detectible feature coupled to the base portion, for use in measuring a rotational speed of the shaft, and a projection extending from the base portion and engageable with a portion of the apparatus other than the shaft to limit movement of the element along the shaft.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 31, 2012
    Date of Patent: November 11, 2014
    Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: John Edward LeMerise, Chad Michael Korte, Patrick Meloche, John Patrick Joyce
  • Patent number: 8797165
    Abstract: The present invention provides a system for monitoring a physiological parameter of players engaged in a sporting activity. The system includes a plurality of reporting units, a controller, and a signaling device. The reporting unit has an arrangement of sensing devices that measure the physiological parameter of an individual player and generate parameter data. The controller receives the parameter data transmitted from each reporting unit and then processes the parameter data to calculate a parameter result. When the parameter result exceeds a predetermined value, the controller communicates with a signaling device that provides an alert to sideline personnel to monitor the player(s) in question. The system also includes a remote storage device for holding historical data collected by the system which permits subsequent analysis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 13, 2005
    Date of Patent: August 5, 2014
    Assignee: Riddell, Inc.
    Inventors: Richard M. Greenwald, Jeffrey J. Chu, Joseph J. Crisco, III, Thad M. Ide
  • Publication number: 20130118255
    Abstract: Sensing a force and/or a change in motion proximate to an arbitrarily-shaped surface via a conformal sensing element (e.g., a pressure sensor, an accelerometer) disposed on a flexible substrate and having a sufficient mechanical coupling to the surface. The conformality of the sensing element facilitates intimate proximity to the surface to ensure accurate sensing. Examples of arbitrarily-shaped surfaces include body parts of a person (e.g., a head). A processor receiving one or more signals from the sensing element may provide information relating to possible injury to a body part (e.g., head trauma) resulting from sensed forces and/or changes in motion. Such information may be conveyed by one or more output devices that provide indications of possible degrees of injury/trauma. A conformal sensing apparatus may be integrated with a protective garment or accessory, such as a helmet, wherein the conformality of the sensing apparatus also ensures sufficient comfort for the wearer.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 17, 2010
    Publication date: May 16, 2013
    Inventors: Gilman Callsen, Roozbeh Ghaffari, William J. Arora, Bassel de Graff, Benjamin Schlatka, Jeffrey D. Carbeck
  • Patent number: 8406698
    Abstract: A method for determining a velocity of an object (O), such as a ball, over a span length (SL) extending from a span start (SS) to a span end (SE). An audio signal (AS) is received by a mobile terminal's (MT) microphone (MP). An approximate travel time (TT) for a traversal of the span length (SL) by the object (O) is determined, which act time comprises processing the audio signal (AS) and detecting a first shape (210) and a second shape (212) which respectively correspond to an approximate start time (T1) and approximate end time (T2) of the traversal, and determining the approximate travel time (TT) based on the detected first shape (210) and second shape (212). The object's velocity is determined based on the span length (SL) and approximate travel time (TT). The velocity may be determined by the mobile terminal or by an external server.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 16, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 26, 2013
    Assignee: Entetrainer Oy
    Inventors: Lauri Ilvas, Anssi Luomaranta, Timo Salmi, Tomi Salmi, Miikka Tikander
  • Patent number: 8397551
    Abstract: A passive blast pressure sensor for detecting blast overpressures of at least a predetermined minimum threshold pressure. The blast pressure sensor includes a piston-cylinder arrangement with one end of the piston having a detection surface exposed to a blast event monitored medium through one end of the cylinder and the other end of the piston having a striker surface positioned to impact a contact stress sensitive film that is positioned against a strike surface of a rigid body, such as a backing plate. The contact stress sensitive film is of a type which changes color in response to at least a predetermined minimum contact stress which is defined as a product of the predetermined minimum threshold pressure and an amplification factor of the piston. In this manner, a color change in the film arising from impact of the piston accelerated by a blast event provides visual indication that a blast overpressure encountered from the blast event was not less than the predetermined minimum threshold pressure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 30, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 19, 2013
    Assignee: Lawrence Livermore National Security, LLC
    Inventors: Michael J. King, Roberto J. Sanchez, William C. Moss
  • Publication number: 20120297871
    Abstract: In various embodiments, a dosimeter is employed to passively record a peak pressure (e.g., a peak blast pressure) and/or a maximum acceleration experienced by the dosimeter.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 31, 2012
    Publication date: November 29, 2012
    Inventor: Jonathan J. Bernstein
  • Patent number: 8235815
    Abstract: A portable sensor unit for capturing motion and/or other data may be securely mounted on objects such as a user's limb, a vehicle, or other items. The sensor unit may then collect motion and/or other data from the object to which it is affixed, and may provide this data to a data logger which stores the data. The data logger may subsequently communicate the data to a gaming system which may tailor the motion characteristics of a virtual object to resemble those of the real-world object from which the motion data was captured. Thus, a user can (for example) capture motion data from a vehicle, with this data being supplied to a video gaming unit which provides a virtual vehicle having the same acceleration/deceleration, handling, and other characteristics.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 23, 2011
    Date of Patent: August 7, 2012
    Assignee: Reference LLC
    Inventors: Christopher Lee Kavars, Leslie Davis
  • Patent number: 8230739
    Abstract: A sensed element is disclosed for incorporation into an apparatus that includes a rotatable shaft. The sensed element includes at least one sensor-detectible feature detectible by a sensing device for use in measuring a rotational speed of the shaft, a base portion coupled to the shaft so as to rotate with the shaft, and a projection extending from the base portion. The projection is engageable with a portion of the apparatus to limit movement of the sensed element along the shaft. The projection may also aid in positioning the sensed element within the apparatus during installation and removal of the sensed element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 7, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 31, 2012
    Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: John Edward LeMerise, Chad Michael Korte, Patrick Meloche, John Patrick Joyce
  • Patent number: 8230738
    Abstract: An instrumented ball for collecting data in an industrial mill comprising a durable sphere defining an enclosed cavity and having a substantial thickness, the sphere manufactured from a resilient material able to withstand pressures exerted by a working industrial mill, electronics disposed in the cavity comprising: a plurality of devices for sensing physical conditions inside the mill, wherein each of the sensing devices outputs a series of sensed values, the devices comprising at least an accelerometer, a gyroscope, a thermocouple, a microphone and a wear sensor, a memory for storing the sensed values, and a communication port for transmitting the sensed values to an external device located outside of the mill, and a power source disposed in the cavity for powering the electronics.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 20, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 31, 2012
    Assignee: McGill University
    Inventors: Peter Radziszewski, Wei Li, Coleman Benson, Sudarshan Martins, Tapiwanashe Chenje
  • Patent number: 8220329
    Abstract: A MEMS system includes an inertial sensor having sensor circuitry and management circuitry implemented with the sensor circuitry. The management circuitry includes a detection module that detects a condition of the system and a management module that coordinates the functionality of the inertial sensor and the detection module based on the detected condition.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 20, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 17, 2012
    Assignee: Analog Devices, Inc.
    Inventor: James M. Lee
  • Patent number: 8170277
    Abstract: An automatic tracking apparatus is provided, which is capable of solving a failure occurred in an automatic tracking operation in connection with a zooming operation, and capable of tracking an object in a stable manner, while a zooming-up operation, or a zooming-down operation is carried out in a high speed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 30, 2007
    Date of Patent: May 1, 2012
    Assignee: Panasonic Corporation
    Inventors: Yasuyuki Michimoto, Satoru Ooyabu
  • Patent number: 8155486
    Abstract: A fiber optic sensor employs at least two flexural discs that are spaced apart from one another along a central axis. A fiber optic coil is affixed to at least one of the flexural discs. A proof mass is disposed between the flexural discs. A first stop member is disposed between the proof mass and one flexural disc. A second stop member is disposed between the proof mass and the other flexural disc. The first and second stop members are sized to provide space between the proof mass and the corresponding flexural disc to allow for normal motion of the flexural discs, while interfering with movement of the flexural discs to prohibit unwanted extreme motion. The fiber optic sensor can be used for OTDR measurements of acceleration for real-time oilfield monitoring applications as well as other fiber-based interferometric measurement applications. A coupling structure preferably couples the outer edges of the flexible disks, the mass being attached to the coupling structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 12, 2007
    Date of Patent: April 10, 2012
    Assignee: Schlumberger Technology Corporation
    Inventor: Dominic Brady
  • Patent number: 8139822
    Abstract: Motion Analysis is used to classify or rate human capability in a physical domain via a minimized movement and data collection protocol producing a discreet, overall figure of merit of the selected physical capability. The minimal protocol is determined by data mining of a more extensive movement and data collection. Protocols are relevant in medical, sports and occupational applications. Kinematic, kinetic, body type, Electromyography (EMG), Ground Reactive Force (GRF), demographic, and psychological data are encompassed. Resulting protocols are capable of transforming raw data representing specific human motions into an objective rating of a skill or capability related to those motions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 2, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 20, 2012
    Inventor: Allen Joseph Selner
  • Patent number: 8083589
    Abstract: A portable sensor unit for capturing motion and/or other data may be securely mounted on objects such as a user's limb, a vehicle, or other items. The sensor unit may then collect motion and/or other data from the object to which it is affixed, and may provide this data to a data logger which stores the data. The data logger may subsequently communicate the data to a gaming system which may tailor the motion characteristics of a virtual object to resemble those of the real-world object from which the motion data was captured. Thus, a user can (for example) capture motion data from a vehicle, with this data being supplied to a video gaming unit which provides a virtual vehicle having the same acceleration/deceleration, handling, and other characteristics.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 15, 2005
    Date of Patent: December 27, 2011
    Assignee: Reference, LLC
    Inventors: Christopher Lee Kavars, Leslie Davis
  • Patent number: 7877226
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for counting exercise repetitions are provided for counting exercise repetition even when an exerciser attaches the apparatus in different places and along different orientations of his or her body. The apparatus and method utilizes acceleration data along at least three axes and determines that a valid step is taken by the exerciser if at least one of acceleration profiles falls within at least one of pre-defined thresholds. Moreover, a method of identifying an optimal axis for exercise repetition measurement is disclosed by comparing the acceleration profiles of previous steps with amplitude, cycle and rhythm thresholds.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 3, 2008
    Date of Patent: January 25, 2011
    Assignee: IDT Technology Limited
    Inventors: Raymond Chan, Mun Hoong Leong, Li Li
  • Patent number: 7866239
    Abstract: Elevation mechanisms for table saws are disclosed. Embodiments include mechanisms with an elevation carriage, a trunnion structure, and a shaft with a cantilevered portion. The shaft can be fixed to one of the elevation carriage and trunnion structure, and the other of the elevation carriage and trunnion structure slides on the cantilevered portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 14, 2007
    Date of Patent: January 11, 2011
    Assignee: SD3, LLC
    Inventors: Stephen F. Gass, J. David Fulmer, David A. Fanning
  • Patent number: 7827377
    Abstract: A method is described for reading out sensor data from an intermediate memory written by at least one sensor to the intermediate memory at a data-transfer rate (Tpas). A sampling rate (Tsg) is selected in such a way as to avoid an overflow of the intermediate memory and all buffered sensor data is read into a control unit memory at the predetermined sampling rate (Tsg), the intermediate memory generating a message (RBE) if no new sensor data is present in the intermediate memory at the time of sampling.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 3, 2005
    Date of Patent: November 2, 2010
    Assignee: Robert Bosch GmbH
    Inventors: Christian Ohl, Andreas Fink, Maike Moldenhauer
  • Publication number: 20100064803
    Abstract: A method for determining a velocity of an object (O), such as a ball, over a span length (SL) extending from a span start (SS) to a span end (SE). An audio signal (AS) is received by a mobile telephone's (MT) microphone (MP). An approximate travel time (TT) for a traversal of the span length (SL) by the object (O) is determined, which act time comprises processing the audio signal (AS) and detecting a first shape (210) and a second shape (212) which respectively correspond to an approximate start time (T1) and approximate end time (T2) of the traversal, and determining the approximate travel time (TT) based on the detected first shape (210) and second shape (212). The object's velocity is determined based on the span length (SL) and approximate travel time (TT).
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 9, 2009
    Publication date: March 18, 2010
    Applicant: Shoot the Balls Oy
    Inventors: Tomi Salmi, Timo Salmi, Lauri Ilvas, Anssi Luomaranta, Miikka Tikander
  • Patent number: 7640134
    Abstract: A step detecting apparatus and method in a personal navigator where acceleration signals in at least two directions are acquired from an accelerometer sensor, as a pedestrian moves. Variances of the acceleration signals are calculated and summed. The variance sum is compared with a threshold. If the variance sum is greater than the threshold, it is determined that a detected step is a walking step. If the variance sum is less than the threshold, it is determined that the detected step is a mark-time step.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 18, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 29, 2009
    Assignees: Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd, Seoul National University Industry Foundation
    Inventors: Kyong-Ha Park, Hyun-Su Hong, Jae-Myeon Lee, Chan-Gook Park, Jin-Won Kim
  • Publication number: 20090100928
    Abstract: Method and apparatus for measuring the coefficient of rolling friction or speed of a horizontal surface over which a round object is rolled such as a putting green encountered in the game of golf. The method includes a device for launching a ball across the surface at a constant and consistent velocity. An included timing device is triggered to start counting the elapsed time when the ball exits the launching device and continues counting until the ball has decelerated to a stop. At the instant the ball ceases moving the timer is triggered to terminate the count. The time required for a body with a specific velocity to come to rest after experiencing constant deceleration is determined by the laws of motion. The coefficient of friction or “speed” of the green which is proportional to the amount of deceleration may then be calculated. This time measurement is therefore sufficient to determine the speed of the green surface which may be reported as an equivalent “stimp” value.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 17, 2008
    Publication date: April 23, 2009
    Inventors: Steven Fry, Eric Fry
  • Patent number: 7515045
    Abstract: A sensor package comprising a micro-electromechanical (MEMS) motion sensor, an analog-to-digital converter coupled to the MEMS motion sensor, and a wireless transceiver coupled to the analog-to-digital converter, wherein the sensor package can wirelessly communicate with one or more wireless receivers and, if present, with one or more other sensor packages. A process comprising attaching one or more sensor packages to one or more vehicles or devices (mobile or stationary), each sensor package comprising a micro-electromechanical (MEMS) motion sensor, an analog-to-digital converter coupled to the MEMS motion sensor, and a wireless transceiver coupled to the MEMS motion sensor; sensing the motion of the one or more vehicles or devices to which each sensor package is attached; and transmitting motion data from the sensor package to a wireless receiver or to another sensor package.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 29, 2005
    Date of Patent: April 7, 2009
    Assignee: Intel Corporation
    Inventors: Goutam Paul, Madhav Rangaswami, Devadas D. Pillai, Bimal Dey, Ralph M. Kling
  • Patent number: 7360421
    Abstract: A system for sensing velocity of a wheeled vehicle has a flexible arm connected to a speed sensor and wireless transmitter at one end and to an adjustable strap or clamp at the other end. The strap is attached near the wheel to be measured. The sensor can then be positioned via the flexible arm to a location immediately adjacent the wheel. There is also a display unit connected to another strap or clamp. The display unit contains a wireless receiver that receives the data transmitted by the transmitter on the sensor, and a microprocessor that calculates the data and displays it for the user to view. A magnetic strip is attached directly to one of the wheels of the device. As the wheel rotates, the magnetic strip passes by the sensor positioned adjacent the wheel, and this passage is recorded by the sensor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 13, 2006
    Date of Patent: April 22, 2008
    Inventors: Adi Weber, Daniel Weber
  • Patent number: 7297070
    Abstract: A golf club shaft selecting system includes a head speed detecting unit detecting a head speed at impact in a swing of a golfer, a swing tempo detecting unit detecting a swing tempo of the golfer, a chart indicative of a shaft mass and a shaft flex point corresponding to the swing characteristics of each golfer, a selecting unit selecting a golf club shaft suitable for the golfer referring to the chart and based on the head speed and the swing tempo detected by the head speed detecting unit and the swing tempo detecting unit, and a displaying apparatus displaying the golf club shaft selected by the selecting unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 28, 2005
    Date of Patent: November 20, 2007
    Assignee: Mizuno Corporation
    Inventors: Hiroki Ashida, Takeshi Saito, Toshimitu Shimizu
  • Patent number: 7293459
    Abstract: A system includes a support, a pendular element, an elastic restraint, an image sensor, and a processing system. The elastic restraint couples the pendular element to the support and applies to the pendular element a restraining force that opposes movement of the pendular element in at least a first direction. The image sensor captures images of the pendular element. The processing system determines one or more movement measures describing movement of the support from comparisons of ones of the images captured by the image sensor. In another aspect, a pendular element is elastically coupled to a support. A restraining force that opposes movement of the pendular element in at least a first direction is applied to the pendular element. Images of the pendular element are captured. One or more movement measures describing movement of the support are determined from comparisons of ones of the captured images.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 22, 2005
    Date of Patent: November 13, 2007
    Assignee: Avago Technologies General IP (Singapore) Pte. Ltd.
    Inventor: Akihiro Machida
  • Patent number: 6805006
    Abstract: A method and apparatus is provided which comprises a console including on/off push buttons and a liquid crystal display for providing messages to the user, a receiver unit, a transmitter unit and a circuit capable of calculating the speeds of the user during use as well as operate LEDs which display the status of the apparatus and flash in response to movement of the user wearing the device while he or she is running or walking.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 3, 2002
    Date of Patent: October 19, 2004
    Assignee: BBC International, Ltd.
    Inventor: Rudy Guzman
  • Publication number: 20040154394
    Abstract: A tachometer with a projection light source generating light of a color corresponding to an instant rotational speed of the car engine to indicate to a racer the best time for gear shift switching by changing the color of the generated light. The device includes a micro-processor, a memory device where a color corresponding to a respective speed segment, as well as speed value critical for shift switch are recorded, and a light source device including a switch device, an electric-control loop and a RGB illumination device set. The light source device is controlled by the microprocessor to change the color of the generated light when the speed reaches the critical value pre-set by a user.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 5, 2004
    Publication date: August 12, 2004
    Inventor: Jui-Yang Lo
  • Patent number: 6675650
    Abstract: A tachyometric display for automotive engines comprising a display head defining a circular display field. The field comprises a plurality of concentric circular bands having a quiescent state in which all of the bands are of the same illumination level and/or color. An engine speed signal is connected through a logic circuit to change the illumination level and/or color of the bands to show speed increases. A conventional needle type speedometer indicator is combined with the display head and suitable indicia are superimposed on the display field.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 12, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 13, 2004
    Assignee: Yazaki North America
    Inventor: Sergio Alexandre Paulo
  • Patent number: 6655209
    Abstract: A pointer of a meter such as a speedometer for use in an automobile is so structured that it is observed as if its illuminated length extends upon turning on a key switch and as if its illuminated length is shortened upon turning off the key switch, thereby giving an ornamental effect to the meter. A pointer cover gradually covering or exposing the illuminated pointer may be provided at a vicinity of a zero-scale position. The pointer may be progressively illuminated by plural light sources disposed behind a scale plate by tuning on the light sources one by one. The light sources such as light-emitting diodes may be embedded in the transparent pointer needle. Plural light sources covered by a bimetal cover may be disposed at a foot portion of the pointer needle, and the bimetal cover may be heated to gradually uncover the light sources thereby to progressively illuminate the pointer needle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 11, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 2, 2003
    Assignee: Denso Corporation
    Inventors: Toshiki Wada, Masami Kataoka, Katsuhiro Kumazawa
  • Publication number: 20030164039
    Abstract: A tachometer with the variation of the projection light source which could set-up the critical standard speed value to provide optimum shift-shifting time, and record the fastest speed condition happened on racing at least comprising: the meter body, the micro-processor, the functional selection operation device, the memory device as well as the cylinder changeover switch; the character of this invention is to add one light source device on the circuit device inside the meter body, said light source device is comprised of a switch device, an electric-control loop and a RGB illumination device set; it utilizes the way of synchronize-light-mixing with the electric-control-loop to drive the RGB illumination device set, and by means of the program control of the microprocessor, when the rotating speed reaches the setting value, the projection light source with various color could be changed according to the setting.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 4, 2002
    Publication date: September 4, 2003
    Inventor: Jui-Yang Lo
  • Patent number: 6604419
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for calculating, presenting, recalling and recording the maximum running speed of a user over a prescribed distance in miles per hour or meters per second. The result is shown in digital and iconic form on a liquid crystal display (LCD). The apparatus incorporates a micro-controller, a LCD, a motion sensor, a sound generator, press switches, and light emitting diodes. The motion sensor is used to generate a signal, in response to external motion, which is input to the micro-controller for use in calculating the speed in accordance with a prescribed formula. Upon completion of running over a fixed time period or distance, a message is displayed on the LCD to indicated the maximum speed achieved by the user during an interval of the fixed time and over the prescribed distance. The apparatus may be adapted for use on shoes, a user's wrists, or the like, for the purpose of encouraging the user to run as fast as possible, and to ensure safety of the user at night.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 17, 2001
    Date of Patent: August 12, 2003
    Assignee: BBC International, Ltd.
    Inventor: Rudy Guzman
  • Patent number: 6564125
    Abstract: A method for updating a sensor offset and a medium encoded with a machine-readable computer program code for updating a sensor using a robust sensor learning algorithm wherein the method includes obtaining vehicle data signals, obtaining a position sensor data signal, the position sensor data signal being responsive to a stored positional offset data signal, determining whether algorithm initial conditions are satisfied, formulating a new positional offset data signal conditioned on satisfaction of the initial conditions, and storing said new positional offset data signal so as to combine said new positional offset data signal with said stored positional offset data signal and replace said stored positional offset data signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 27, 2001
    Date of Patent: May 13, 2003
    Assignee: Delphi Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Kathryn Lynn Pattok, Ashok Chandy, Mark Philip Colosky
  • Publication number: 20030066349
    Abstract: A pointer of a meter such as a speedometer for use in an automobile is so structured that it is observed as if its illuminated length extends upon turning on a key switch and as if its illuminated length is shortened upon turning off the key switch, thereby giving an ornamental effect to the meter. A pointer cover gradually covering or exposing the illuminated pointer may be provided at a vicinity of a zero-scale position. The pointer may be progressively illuminated by plural light sources disposed behind a scale plate by tuning on the light sources one by one. The light sources such as light-emitting diodes may be embedded in the transparent pointer needle. Plural light sources covered by a bimetal cover may be disposed at a foot portion of the pointer needle, and the bimetal cover may be heated to gradually uncover the light sources thereby to progressively illuminate the pointer needle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 11, 2002
    Publication date: April 10, 2003
    Inventors: Toshiki Wada, Masami Kataoka, Katsuhiro Kumazawa
  • Publication number: 20030005766
    Abstract: A method and apparatus is provided which comprises a console including on/off push buttons and a liquid crystal display for providing messages to the user, a receiver unit, a transmitter unit and a circuit capable of calculating the speeds of the user during use as well as operate LEDs which display the status of the apparatus and flash in response to movement of the user wearing the device while he or she is running or walking.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 3, 2002
    Publication date: January 9, 2003
    Applicant: BBC International, Ltd.
    Inventor: Rudy Guzman
  • Publication number: 20020095988
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for calculating, presenting, recalling and recording the maximum running speed of a user over a prescribed distance in miles per hour or meters per second. The result is shown in digital and iconic form on a liquid crystal display (LCD). The apparatus incorporates a micro-controller, a LCD, a motion sensor, a sound generator, press switches, and light emitting diodes. The motion sensor is used to generate a signal, in response to external motion, which is input to the micro-controller for use in calculating the speed in accordance with a prescribed formula. Upon completion of running over a fixed time period or distance, a message is displayed on the LCD to indicated the maximum speed achieved by the user during an interval of the fixed time and over the prescribed distance. The apparatus may be adapted for use on shoes, a user's wrists, or the like, for the purpose of encouraging the user to run as fast as possible, and to ensure safety of the user at night.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 17, 2001
    Publication date: July 25, 2002
    Applicant: BBC International, Ltd.
    Inventor: Rudy Guzman
  • Patent number: 6138512
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for determining source location for acoustic or other waveform energy in a conducting medium. The method includes simultaneously detecting and transducing the source energy at a plurality of points in the medium into a composite signal representative of the source energy, as sensed at each point. Dispersional modes of propagation of the energy, if more than one, are isolated from each other, preferably by Fourier transform spatially and temporally. Generalized cross correlation is performed on selected isolated modes, resulting in identification of a value from which source location can be located. The apparatus can include an array of spaced apart transducers which are configured to be minimally interfering with source energy propagation through the medium. An multi-channel data acquisition device, including A/D converters for each transducer, captures and digitizes the output of each transducer simultaneously.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 29, 1998
    Date of Patent: October 31, 2000
    Assignee: Iowa State University Research Foundation, Inc.
    Inventors: Ronald A. Roberts, Lance E. Rewerts, Mary Amanda Clark
  • Patent number: 6130464
    Abstract: A surface micromachined microaccelerometer includes a substrate which has a surface plane, and a cantilever formed on the substrate with a fixed end and a free end, the fixed end being anchored to the substrate. The cantilever includes a mass fixed along the length of the cantilever. A cooperating device reads out the occurrence of an acceleration event when the free end of the cantilever has moved to a predetermined position. The cooperating device may be fixed or an opposing co-aligned cantilever structure. In a first embodiment, the cooperating device takes the form of a fixed structure having slots in which the tip of the cantilever is selectively retained. A further embodiment configures the cooperating device as an overlapping opposed cantilever. A further feature of the invention enables a reset function of a latched cantilever and comprises a pair of layers which when energized cause a cantilever to be suitably deflected so as to return from the latched state back to the unlatched state.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 8, 1997
    Date of Patent: October 10, 2000
    Assignee: Roxburgh Ltd.
    Inventor: William N. Carr
  • Patent number: 6129107
    Abstract: A fluid-containment hose assembly for connecting a fluid supply to a device using the fluid (such as a washing machine), the hose assembly having a first connector with a nipple; a second connector with a nipple; an inner hose sealingly attached to the nipple of the first connector at one end of the inner hose and to the nipple of the second connector at another end of the inner hose; an outer hose covering the inner hose defining a space therebetween as a relief passageway, the outer hose sealingly attached at the nipple of the first connector and at the nipple of the second connector; a relief hose attached to the outer hose, the relief hose having a relief port in communication with the relief passageway and further having an exit port through which fluid may be discharged; and a signal device on the relief hose which, when fluid enters the relief hose due to a rupture of the inner hose, generates an audible signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 16, 1999
    Date of Patent: October 10, 2000
    Inventor: Robert W. Jackson
  • Patent number: 6125693
    Abstract: A test fixture for the simultaneous evaluation of a plurality of seals inding an outer tubular shell having a first terminal end and a second terminal end. A first bulkhead has interior and exterior sides to cover the first terminal end of the tubular shell and a second bulkhead has interior and exterior sides to cover the second terminal end of the tubular shell. A sleeve has a first terminal end and a second terminal end and is positioned inside the exterior tube. The sleeve may be segmented into two sections connected end to end. One end of the sleeve is fixed to a simulated pipe flange and sealed by a coaxial overlapping seal. The other end of the flange is connected to an adapted ring by a similar seal. Another such seal is used to connect the two segments of the sleeve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 8, 1998
    Date of Patent: October 3, 2000
    Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the Navy
    Inventor: Neil J. Dubois
  • Patent number: 6112579
    Abstract: A conductive fluid leakage sensor capable of detecting a leak from a first electrically conductive or non-conductive container with a conductive liquid disposed therein, has a second or outer electrically conductive coating surrounding a first conducting or non-conducting inner container. An electrical connection is made between the outer member and to the conductive fluid disposed within the container, so that conductive fluid leaking from the container that comes into contact with the outer electrically conductive coating creates a pulse, which may be sensed by a sensing apparatus providing an indication thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 26, 1998
    Date of Patent: September 5, 2000
    Inventor: Stephen A. Tryba
  • Patent number: 6112580
    Abstract: Apparatus for status detection, in particular leak detection, in pipelines for the transportation of media, in particular, steam or hot water. The pipeline respectively comprises an inner medium-carrying pipe (1), an adjoining heat-insulating layer (2), and a outer protective pipe (3). Disposed in the region of the heat-insulating layer (2) is at least one sensor unit (4) with an induction coil (5) and a moisture and/or temperature dependent sensor (7). An interrogation device (20), which includes an exciter coil (25) with a transmitting device (22), a receiving device (23), and an evaluation device (24), permits interrogation of the condition of the sensor unit (4). The interrogation device can be portable, coupled to a lap-to, or can be in the form of a stationary fitment above the sensor unit (4).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 10, 1998
    Date of Patent: September 5, 2000
    Assignee: Michael Hesky GmbH
    Inventor: Michael Hesky
  • Patent number: 6094969
    Abstract: The invention relates to a device for checking for tightness a closure or a connecting weld provided in a flexible fluid-filled hose, which device comprises two clamping members slidable relative to each other, forming in an inserted position a profile with at least one clamping space and an expansion space, as well as folding means, the arrangement being such that at least one hose portion can be folded and clamped in the at least one clamping space, so that the fluid present in the at least one hose portion is pressed to another hose portion including the closure or connecting weld to be checked, which other hose portion can expand in the expansion space.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 1, 1998
    Date of Patent: August 1, 2000
    Assignee: NPBI International B.V.
    Inventors: Johannes Antonius Loos, Alex Schippers, Jan Bons
  • Patent number: 6082183
    Abstract: An improved system for the non-destructive testing of the fluid tight integrity of an installed fluid transfer line such as a drain pipe or vent and wastewater system of a building. A removable test baffle is held in place between ends of adjacent sections of an installed fluid transfer line to isolate a portion of the line for testing. The test system comprises a baffle carriage, a removable test baffle, and a sleeve adapted to engage the outer surfaces of the adjacent sections to seal the junction and the test installation from leaking and optionally to provide one or more gaskets between the section ends and the baffle carriage. In optional preferred embodiments of the test system the baffle carriage is an integral part of the sleeve. Preferred baffles for use with the invention are flexible, of larger diameter than the fluid line, and comprise dual-gasket sealing means and means for removal of the baffles from either side of the test seal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 20, 1999
    Date of Patent: July 4, 2000
    Inventor: Donald G. Huber
  • Patent number: 6082392
    Abstract: A hose assembly is provided for transmitting liquid fuel between the fuel tank of a highway truck and the fuel tank of an airport refueler. The assembly comprises inner and outer hoses. The inner hose transmits liquid fuel. A sealed passage is formed between the inner and outer hoses. Each end of the hose assembly is connected to a respective port for transferring the fuel between the highway truck fuel tank and airport refueler tank. The assembly includes at least one sensor port for connecting the passage to sensing means to detect leakage from the inner hose to the passage. A leakage sensing system is coupled to the sensor port for detecting leakage of fuel from the inner hose to the passage and for generating sensor signals. The leakage sensing system includes: (1) a pressure sensor for detecting a change in pressure within the passage, and (2) a liquid sensor for detecting the presence of liquid within the passage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 1997
    Date of Patent: July 4, 2000
    Assignee: General Transervice, Inc.
    Inventor: Robert Watkins, Jr.
  • Patent number: 6070452
    Abstract: A pipe leak locating system is provided including a pipe with an inlet. A plug is situated within the pipe and an air generator is mounted on the inlet of the pipe with a pressure gauge coupled therebetween for detecting the release of pressure within the pipe between the inlet and the plug.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 16, 1998
    Date of Patent: June 6, 2000
    Inventor: Gene T. Brannan
  • Patent number: 6070617
    Abstract: A liquid-transferring hose of single-carcass configuration, with a rubber tube layer, main pressure-resistant cord layer and cover rubber layer, in this order from the inside, wherein a transponder installed between the rubber tube layer and cover rubber layer transmits and receives waves of specific frequency, which are attenuated by at least -60 dB when passing through liquid to be transferred, and transmits a response signal on receiving the above waves. This design prevents the response signal transmitted by the transponder, when it is covered with leaked liquid, from being detected, to tell occurrence of liquid leakage, allowing liquid leakage to be easily detected during the initial stage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 21, 1999
    Date of Patent: June 6, 2000
    Assignee: The Yokohama Rubber Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Yukinori Honda, Fumihiko Yazaki, Masashi Wakabayashi, Riki Takeda, Koji Nakatani
  • Patent number: 6044690
    Abstract: A shearable multi-gage blowout preventer test tool for testing different size ram and annular BOP's in one trip has an inner tube and an outer test tube assembly connected in telescoping relation. The inner tube is connected to a bottom sub and a release sub connected to the bottom end of the outer test tube assembly is slidably mounted on the inner tube. The outer tube assembly has a plurality of pipe gage diameters corresponding to different drill pipe sizes. A top sub at the top end of the outer tube assembly connects to the drill string. The release sub and outer tube assembly is connected to the bottom sub in the collapsed position. The bottom sub is connected to a test plug and tail pipe assembly and the tool is lowered through the riser pipe and BOP stack to set the test plug in the well.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 5, 1998
    Date of Patent: April 4, 2000
    Inventor: J. Terrell Williams
  • Patent number: 6041651
    Abstract: A high speed camera takes an image in the vicinity of a ball 3 and a club head 12, while a high speed camera 5 takes an image in the vicinity of the top of the swing of a golfer 1, and the images are recorded in a high speed video tape recorder 6. The recorded images are reproduced, swing time, a swing speed and a head speed are detected using a personal computer 15, and a shaft with an optimum flex for the golfer is selected based on the swing time, the swing speed, the swing time and the head speed, or the swing speed and the head speed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 26, 1997
    Date of Patent: March 28, 2000
    Assignee: Mizuno Corporation
    Inventors: Takeshi Naruo, Takeshi Saito, Shuichi Noguchi