Structural Installation Or Mounting Means Patents (Class 73/493)
  • Patent number: 5128106
    Abstract: An oxygen detector for use in a double envelope lamp is described. The detector may be formed by nitriding a metal surface to produce a metal piece with a first visual color or state. The surface thickness is sufficient to exclude oxygen during normal assemble, but thin enough to change colors during lamp operation if oxygen is present.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 12, 1990
    Date of Patent: July 7, 1992
    Assignee: GTE Products Corporation
    Inventors: Jeffrey P. Buschmann, Arnold E. Westlund, Jr.
  • Patent number: 5123278
    Abstract: A pressure tester (50) is provided for safely and efficiently buckle testing a container (120). A housing (52) encloses a test chamber (54) and the related operating equipment. The chamber (54) includes a neck block (80) and a cradling assembly (82) for holding the container (120) therein. Upon activation of a test cycle, the container (120) is punctured on a domed end (124) by a hollow needle (100) which fits within a domed pedestal (94). The container (120) is pushed into the neck block (80) where an outwardly sloping surface (130) generally matches a neck (126) of the container (120). A flexible seal (134) is fitted within a groove (132) in the surface (130) which provides flex without support if the container (120) expands during the test.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 19, 1991
    Date of Patent: June 23, 1992
    Assignee: Ball Corporation
    Inventor: Merle McKittrick
  • Patent number: 5117695
    Abstract: The present invention features a vibration attenuation assembly designed for the protection of single axis instruments such as accelerometers. The assembly includes an inner cylinder housing one or more single axis accelerometers co-aligned with a principle axis of the cylinder. The inner cylinder is suspended by three or more equally spaced springs at each end. In one embodiment, damping fluid is maintained between the inner cylindrical surface of the housing and the suspended cylinder to provide damping and a thermal path. The springs also function as electrical conductors for transmitting power and signals to the accelerometer. Damping fluid retention between the inner and outer cylinder can be accomplished by use of a diaphragm or bellows as a physical barrier. Alternatively, retention of the damping fluid can be accomplished without a physical barrier by use of fluid adhesion which has particular applicability in low gravity environments such as space.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 12, 1990
    Date of Patent: June 2, 1992
    Assignee: Teledyne Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: Frederick H. Henderson, Roy D. Whitehead
  • Patent number: 5111684
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for leak testing a sealed package having at least one flexible wall portion and a sealed flange wherein at least one flexible wall portion of the package spaced from at least a seal-exposing edge of the sealed flange is gripped and pulled outwardly from the package to stress the package in tension while at least the seal-exposing edge of the sealed flange is exposed to a gas pressure equal to or greater than atmospheric pressure. The reaction of the sealed package to the stressing is then detected. The method and apparatus are useful for testing retort or aseptic pouches, cups and multi-layered trays with heat sealed lids, etc., with or without head space. Leaks in the seal and also in areas adjacent the seal can advantageously be detected quickly and with a high degree of reliability.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 21, 1990
    Date of Patent: May 12, 1992
    Assignee: Pack Systems
    Inventors: Anton Stauffer, Heinz Wolf
  • Patent number: 5105654
    Abstract: There is disclosed a method for inspecting leakage of a sealed container which is effectively used for detecting a leaking place such as a pin hole, crack, etc. of a sealed container which contains foods, pharmaceuticals, chemical industrial products, etc. A method for inspecting leakage of a sealed container according to the present invention comprises changing an internal pressure of a vacuum chamber provided with an eddy-current displacement sensor to a predetermined degree of vacuum from a normal pressure after putting a sealed container to be inspected having a conductive material on at least at a portion of the container in the chamber; detecting an amount of expansion of the sealed container at the degree of vacuum in time sequence by the eddy-current displacement sensor; and determining any change in the amount of expansion after a time when the detected amount of expansion shows the maximum value, thereby to determine any pin hole formed in the sealed container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 15, 1991
    Date of Patent: April 21, 1992
    Assignee: Taiyo Fishery Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Minoru Maruyama, Takahiko Kagawa, Tahiko Inukai, Michio Nonaka, Kiyoshi Kajiwara
  • Patent number: 5097706
    Abstract: A device for taking measurements of the various component elements of the movement of a moving body includes a support having an arch with two branches so as to straddle, for example, the withers of a horse. The support has a high point and two low points, symmetrical relative to the longitudinal median plane of the support. The support carries six accelerometers of which, in use, three are disposed so that their axes are parallel to a longitudinal axis X, two are disposed so that their axes are parallel to a vertical axis Z, and one accelerometer is disposed so that its axis is parallel to the transverse axis Y.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 6, 1990
    Date of Patent: March 24, 1992
    Assignee: Association Persival
    Inventors: Alain Le Nouvel, Thierry Dronka, Andre Maginot, Michel Daveine, Jean-Louis Jouffroy
  • Patent number: 5095736
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a portable gas cylinder safety containment system removably and operably incorporated with a portable, self powered, toxic gas monitoring system, and both removably attached to a delivery cart system, to provide real time monitoring of the delivery cart contents while in transit. This system is designed particularly for the safe transport between storage and work areas of toxic and hazardous gases used in various research, laboratory and production process, such as those in the semiconductor and microcircuit industries.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 10, 1990
    Date of Patent: March 17, 1992
    Assignee: Micron Techology, Inc.
    Inventors: Richard Fesler, Jim Nielsen
  • Patent number: 5052522
    Abstract: A rotary encoder engages the circumferential periphery of an elevator sheave to monitor the rotational speed of the sheave. The encoder is mounted on an adjustable mounting assembly which biases the rotor against the sheave circumference along a line passing through the axis of rotation of the sheave.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 29, 1989
    Date of Patent: October 1, 1991
    Assignee: Otis Elevator Company
    Inventors: Keiichiro Nakai, Manabu Suganuma
  • Patent number: 5042291
    Abstract: A method and test chamber for leak testing a container with a substantially flexible wall portion wherein the container is introduced into a test cavity so that the wall portion of the container is spaced from an inner adjacent wall portion of the test cavity with a gap being defined between the wall portion of the cavity and the flexible wall portion of the container. A pressure difference is installed as an initial value between the interior of the container and at least the gap by applying a pressure at least to the gap which is smaller than a pressure inside the container. The flexible wall portion is supported from its exterior side within the test cavity so as to prevent the flexible wall portion from bending outwardly into contact with the wall portion of the test cavity as a result of the pressure difference. The time course of a pressure prevailing within the gap is measured as a leak indicative signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 24, 1990
    Date of Patent: August 27, 1991
    Inventor: Martin Lehmann
  • Patent number: 5040579
    Abstract: In a liquid filling machine having a metering cylinder, a piston accommodated in the cylinder with a clearance formed therebetween, and a membrane closing each open end of the clearance to form a closed space, a device for detecting a leak in the metering cylinder comprising a vacuum pipe connected to the metering cylinder in communication with the closed space, an orifice plate inserted in the vacuum pipe for maintaining the interior portion of the pipe upstream from the orifice plate at a pressure lower than a predetermined value when the membrane has no leak with a standard quantity of leakage fluid flowing through the pipe and maintaining the interior portion at a pressure not lower than the predetermined value when the membrane has a leak, and a pressure sensor for detecting the pressure of the upstream interior portion of the pipe and producing a leak detection signal when the detected pressure is not lower than the predetermined pressure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 31, 1990
    Date of Patent: August 20, 1991
    Assignee: Shikoku Kakoki Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Seizo Kawamura, Yoshihiro Saijo
  • Patent number: 5038613
    Abstract: An angular rate sensor detects an angular rate which is produced when a mobile body such as a motor vehicle moves. The angular rate detecting device comprises at least two angular rate sensors housed in a case perpendicularly to each other. Each angular rate sensor comprises a pair of vibratory units which are interconnected by a connector in a tuning-fork configuration. The vibratory units of different angular rate sensors are vibrated at different frequencies. The angular rate sensors may be accommodated in a damper block, which may be housed in the case. Since the angular rate sensors are housed in the single case, the angular rate detecting device is compact in structure and small in size. With the angular rate sensors accommodated in the damper block, they are protected from resonance, crosstalk interferences, and noise, and hence can produce reliable detected output signals.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 21, 1990
    Date of Patent: August 13, 1991
    Assignee: Matsushita Electric Industrial Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Hiroshi Takenaka, Mikio Nozu, Hiroshi Senda, Toshihiko Ichinose, Jiro Terada, Kazumitsu Ueda, Yasuhito Osada, Takahiro Manabe
  • Patent number: 5038612
    Abstract: An ultrasonic measuring device for determining motion parameters of moved bodies, in particular path, speed, acceleration, slip and the like, comprising first and second ultrasonic transducers supported in a housing. Each of the ultrasonic transducers (transmitter and receiver) having either a sound generator or a sound receiver positioned between two vibrating elements. A connecting element clamps a sound generator with a sound receiver between the vibrating elements. Each of the ultrasonic transducers being supported by support elements featuring bent-off portions arranged in a meander-type manner in turn (bent back upon itself) in the housing. One of the support elements, for each transducer, is arranged at the sound opening of the housing and is slidably mounted on a vibrating element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 14, 1989
    Date of Patent: August 13, 1991
    Assignee: Krone AG
    Inventors: Wolfgang Thelen, Wolfgang Lorenz, Klaus Templin, Joachim Lohr
  • Patent number: 5033287
    Abstract: A method for inspecting a sealing property of a plastic container having contents. The container has a lid which is deflectable under a negative pressure developed in the container. The contents are charged in to the container so that a negative pressure is developed under a normal temperature or room temperature. The deflection of the lid is measured so as to detect the sealing property of the container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 25, 1990
    Date of Patent: July 23, 1991
    Assignee: Ajinomoto Co., Inc.
    Inventors: Toshiaki Watanabe, Mitsuru Ohba
  • Patent number: 5029464
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for leak testing a hollow body wherein the hollow body is placed in a test chamber. A prechamber is brought to a desired pressure, then connected with the test chamber. The pressure in the test chamber is stored at a certain point in time on an input side of a differential pressure sensor and then the course of the test chamber pressure is compared with reference pressure thus formed. Any pressure compensation which occurs if leaks are present in the hollow body is recorded as an indication of such leakage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 18, 1990
    Date of Patent: July 9, 1991
    Inventor: Martin Lehmann
  • Patent number: 5007290
    Abstract: What is disclosed is an improved quartz flexure accelerometer including the well-known elements of a quartz reed positioned between a return path and an end cap, the return path and end cap impelling a compressive load on the reed frame as a result of an adhesive and a preload band. The improvement disclosed includes a recess at the outer periphery of the end cap, the recess defining a compliant member at the bottom of the end cap. The compliant member providing greater strain movement, enabling accurate preload setting between the compliant member of the end cap, the adhesive, the preload band, and the return path. The compliant member also providing spring action to maintain a prolonged constant compressive load on the quartz reed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 1989
    Date of Patent: April 16, 1991
    Assignee: New SD, Inc
    Inventors: Bert Egley, Richard A. Hanson
  • Patent number: 5003820
    Abstract: The electronic speedometer of this invention accurately calculates and digitally displays a skier's instantaneous speed. The device accomplishes this task by employing the "hot wire" principle using a thermistor and a thermocouple which are exposed to air stream through which the skis move. The device does not contain any moving parts and does not contact the snow or rely on snow contact for its operation. Since the construction of the device minimizes drag, its effect on a skier's performance is negligible. The device can easily be mounted and removed from a ski without the use of tools and without damaging the ski, thereby making it easily transferable to other surfaces, such as snowboards and hangliders.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 24, 1990
    Date of Patent: April 2, 1991
    Inventor: Eric Dittbrenner
  • Patent number: 5001930
    Abstract: An improved speedometer assembly of the electronic type which utilizes an electric motor mounted to a frame whereby the motor has an end flange portion supported against the frame by means of at least one swingable gate-like latches which are attached to a stationary support by an integral living hinge portion which provides a force against the edge of the flange.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 6, 1989
    Date of Patent: March 26, 1991
    Assignee: Acustar, Inc.
    Inventors: Alfred H. Glover, Joseph T. Betterton
  • Patent number: 4983352
    Abstract: A closure system of a spent fuel storage cask includes a lid assembly having a shield lid which is installed under water and which cooperates in the drainage of water from the cask. A primary cover having a spring energized metalic C-ring captured therein to provide a primary gas seal is then installed over the shield lid. Closable gas passages extending through the primary cover permit the primary gas seal to be tested by injecting pressurized gas on one side of the primary gas seal and testing for leakage on the other. A seal cover is installed over the primary cover and welded at its periphery to provide the secondary gas seal. The seal cover has a closable gas passage which allows pressurized gas to be injected between the primary cover and the sealed cover so that leaks at the secondary gas seal can be detected. The closure system may also include a gas pressure monitoring system which communicates with the interior of the cask and which can be recalibrated during long-term storage of spent fuel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 24, 1989
    Date of Patent: January 8, 1991
    Assignee: Westinghouse Electric Corp.
    Inventor: Larry E. Efferding
  • Patent number: 4959807
    Abstract: A device for measuring the speed of a moving object has first and second impact detectors separated by a preselected known distance and disposed in the path of movement of the object. As the object strikes the first and second detectors, the detectors each produce a signal. The signals are separated by a time interval indicative of the distance between the detectors. The elapsed time between the signals is measured by a counter device, and the speed of the object is calculated by a programmable device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 11, 1988
    Date of Patent: September 25, 1990
    Assignee: Atochem North America, Inc.
    Inventors: Mitchell L. Thomspon, Kyung T. Park, Kumar Ogale, William B. Powers
  • Patent number: 4955226
    Abstract: A method and apparatus can automatically detect the presence of leaks in sealed plastic bags filled with product and gas by detecting the amount of displacement and the variation in displacement over time of a displacement transducer movable into contact with a fluffed bag, and utilizing the variation of displacement over time to detect such leaks. The variation of displacement over time is compared to the variation (or lack thereof) observed in a control bag without appreciable leaks, and a sufficient difference therebetween indicates a bag with a leak, which is thereafter rejected.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 26, 1984
    Date of Patent: September 11, 1990
    Assignee: Frito-Lay, Inc.
    Inventors: Dennis W. Beaty, C. Brooks Shafer
  • Patent number: 4953396
    Abstract: A leak detection apparatus and method provides uniform pressure application for leak testing of irregular containers. The leak detector utilizes compressed air at a regulated low pressure and includes timing and pneumatic valve components for providing a timed pressure application and release cycle and an inflatable shroud which envelopes the container and applies substantially uniform pressure thereto. Leak detection is accomplished by visual inspection of the container during and immediately after the pressure application cycle. An alternate embodiment detector provides semi-automated testing. Fill and vent valves are controlled by a microprocessor which receives data from a pressure transducer. A read only memory stores one or more selectable decay functions and the microprocessor compares the pressure decay rate of the shroud and the container under test with an appropriate stored function to determine whether the container is leaking and provides a two-state (Accept-Reject) output.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 18, 1989
    Date of Patent: September 4, 1990
    Assignee: General Mills, Inc.
    Inventors: John W. Langsdorf, Tina O. Outlaw
  • Patent number: 4951496
    Abstract: A method of, and apparatus for, leak testing a package, in which the package is placed in a sheet-like, gas-tight envelope. A pressure differential is generated between the outside and the inside of the envelope, as a result of which the package is closely enveloped by the envelope. This pressure differential is so large that it decreases the volume of the package and increases the internal pressure in a non-filled portion thereof. In a sealed measuring space defined between the package and the envelope pressed against it, a pressure is used which is lower than the increased pressure in the package. In the sealed measuring space, the pressure is measured for a pre-determined measuring period. An increase in pressure in the measuring space indicates leakage from the package.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 9, 1989
    Date of Patent: August 28, 1990
    Assignee: Product Suppliers AG
    Inventor: Mathias L. C. Aarts
  • Patent number: 4949076
    Abstract: A system for leak detection in underwater structures wherein each critical leakage test point is maintained dry by an enclosure and a test cable is led down through the series of enclosures in fluid-tight manner to support a test probe within the dry test point volume. The test cable is a coaxial cable of selected characteristic impedance and each probe consists of a spirally wound, open-end dual pair supported on a plastic stub so as to constitute a parallel resonant circuit at a selected frequency. Thereafter, a test pulse is conducted down the coaxial cable and the impedance of any probe will be altered by the presence of water to produce a reflected pulse back up the coaxial cable to be detected and input to gating and counting circuitry to determine signal travel duration and, therefore, distance along the cable, as processing, printing and readout components provide output indications.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 13, 1988
    Date of Patent: August 14, 1990
    Assignee: Conoco Inc.
    Inventor: Laymond D. Wann
  • Patent number: 4947690
    Abstract: The invention provides an accelerometer (10) which can be connected to or disconnected from a support structure (12) by means of a single fastening component (18) while holding remaining structural components (14, 16, 20) at a fixed azimuthal position relative to the top surface (38) of the support structure (12).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 29, 1989
    Date of Patent: August 14, 1990
    Assignee: Allied-Signal Inc.
    Inventor: Lester G. Cleveland
  • Patent number: 4942765
    Abstract: An ultrasonic ground speed sensor has a single transducer which both transmits and receives ultrasonic signals. The sensor is mounted on a vehicle in alignment with the direction of the vehicle, the transducer having a built-in angle with the body of the sensor unit. The transmitted signal is clocked by a 16 MHz clock, with the signal received by the transducer selectively filtered and amplified. A temperature sensor is also used to determine the speed of the transmitted and received signal. A 64-cycle sample period is used, as well as multiple counters and a signal processor to increase accuracy and minimize erroneous readings. A drop-out detector and monitoring system sensor is also described. The vehicle speed is calculated from a Doppler-based formula as a function of both the sum and difference of the transmitted and received signal frequencies. Also disclosed is a gasket seal having leak holes for drainage from the interior of the sensor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 28, 1988
    Date of Patent: July 24, 1990
    Assignee: Micro-Trak Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Thomas K. Hiniker, Semor D. Tofte
  • Patent number: 4939926
    Abstract: An apparatus for measuring leaks associated with a sealed lamp assembly, ludes an RF source for establishing an ionizing discharge in association with the lamp assembly, a source of continuous-wave probe radiation for irradiating the established ionizing discharge, and a pickup coil and associated circuitry for monitoring current flow through the ionizing discharge in response to the probe irradiation of the ionizing discharge. A signal is provided representing changes in the ionizing discharge resulting from the probe irradiation. A partially reflecting mirror partially deflects a portion of the probe radiation before it reaches the ionizing discharge. A signal is provided representing the deflected probe radiation. A computer receives the signals representing the changes in the ionizing discharge and the signals representing the deflected probe radiation, whereby the computer provides data representing pressure changes in the sealed lamp assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 5, 1989
    Date of Patent: July 10, 1990
    Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the Navy
    Inventor: Jeanne A. Welch
  • Patent number: 4934180
    Abstract: Leak detector for use in detecting defective flange-shaped seals between lid and body portions of a package. A pressure chamber is provided for isolating the external edge of the seal and applying test pressure thereto. Containment of the pressure chamber includes sealing pressure applied mechanically to the flange-shaped package seal during testing, but this sealing pressure does not affect seal testing because it is appropriately limited by a self-compensating biasing of the mechanical seal. Also disclosed is a leak testing method that involves directing gas over a flexible lid at sufficiently high velocity to lift the lid at gross defects in a seal and inject gas through the gross defects. Also disclosed is a package design that employs channels to direct gas into a seal region.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 3, 1988
    Date of Patent: June 19, 1990
    Assignee: Benthos, Inc.
    Inventor: William H. Hulsman
  • Patent number: 4930342
    Abstract: Disclosed are container testing apparatuses and methods for detecting leaks in containers. Such employ first and second annular seals for defining a testing chamber therebetween. An actuating seal is shown which is controllably retracted from engagement with sidewalls of the container. Another embodiment uses two passive seals. A further embodiment uses a pressurized expandable seal. In a preferred apparatus and method, at least one of the first and second seals functions by inwardly pressing against the container surfaces to enhance sealing upon application of differentially pressurized fluid within the testing fluid chamber. A detector can be employed to sense changes in the container associated with the existence of a leak through which the differential pressure of the testing fluid is communicated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 6, 1987
    Date of Patent: June 5, 1990
    Assignee: Seal Integrity Systems, Inc.
    Inventor: P. K. McDaniel
  • Patent number: 4930345
    Abstract: The seal of a package comprising a cup containing a liquid or semiliquid substance and having a rim to which a flexible cover is sealed is checked by simultaneously monitoring the position of the cover, inwardly elastically deflecting at least one of the walls of the cup so that the disk is bulged outward only when the cup is sealed, and generating an output based on the monitored position of the disk when the disk is bulged outward. The cup is held substantially stationary while monitoring the cover-disk position and inwardly deflecting the one wall, although normally diametrically opposite side walls are simultaneously and oppositely inwardly deflected. The position of the cover disk is monitored by pressing a bumper against it resiliently and detecting movement of the bumper.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 6, 1988
    Date of Patent: June 5, 1990
    Assignee: Hamba Maschinenfabrik Hans A. Muller GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventor: Franz-Hubert Bausch
  • Patent number: 4930344
    Abstract: An apparatus for testing the quality of a seal on a package overwrap having a cutting or burning element to create a hole in the package overwrap without breaching the integrity of the package; a measuring head for introducing super-atmospheric air pressure through the hole between the overwrap and the package; and a pressure transducer for determining whether the rate of air leakage from the overwrap is within acceptable limits.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 30, 1989
    Date of Patent: June 5, 1990
    Assignee: Philip Morris Incorporated
    Inventors: J. Jerome Fleenor, Christopher N. Chance, Robert T. Mitten
  • Patent number: 4922746
    Abstract: The leaky or non-leaky condition of a membrane-sealed container is determined by causing motion in one direction of one portion of the membrane; sensing motion in a direction opposite the first direction of another portion of the membrane; and delivering a corresponding signal indicative of the leaky or non-leaky condition.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 25, 1988
    Date of Patent: May 8, 1990
    Assignee: Benthos, Inc.
    Inventors: William Hulsman, Ben G. Allen
  • Patent number: 4920785
    Abstract: A method for testing the hermeticity of a sealed cavity within a microelectronic, semiconductor, or other electronic component package includes pressure bombing the package within a detector-fluid bath, attempting thereby to introduce liquid detector fluid into the cavity through any leaks. A detector fluid is used whose vapor state possesses a distinctive physical characteristic that is detectable with known instrumentation. The package is then removed from the bath to permit a quantity of any detector fluid introduced into the cavity to vaporize and evolve for detection. Heating and vibrating the package may be employed to accelerate detector fluid outgassing, together with vacuum withdrawal of the vapor, and detection may employ measurement of infrared absorption. A system for detecting evolving detector fluid vapor includes both a test cell with which to confine the vapor and the instrumentation for measuring infrared absorption of test cell contents.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 21, 1984
    Date of Patent: May 1, 1990
    Assignee: Web Technology, Inc.
    Inventor: Edward Etess
  • Patent number: 4922444
    Abstract: The apparatus for determining coordinates is used as a pointing device or a mouse device in a personal computer system. The present apparatus comprises plural speed sensors and an operating means such as a CPU. When the speed sensors are moved by an operator, each of the speed sensors detects each of accelerations thereof in predetermined axis directions. The detected accelerations of the speed sensors are converted into moving distances representative of the coordinates through a calculation of the operating means. By only holding and moving the present apparatus by an operator, it is possible to input the coordinates with ease and with accuracy because there is no need to provide a heavy metal ball of the conventional mechanical mouse device and a transparent board of the conventional optical mouse device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 14, 1987
    Date of Patent: May 1, 1990
    Assignee: Yamaha Corporation
    Inventor: Mitsuru Baba
  • Patent number: 4920799
    Abstract: The invention presented in a universal casing for an instrument having a read-out, suitable for flush, surface or bracket mounting. The casing comprises a watertight instrument module which comprises (i) a facepiece having at least one aperture through which the read-out of the instrument can be observed, and (ii) an instrument housing extending rearwardly from the facepiece and mounted to the facepiece in a watertight fashion, the housing comprising a hollow body having an open front end mounted to the facepiece and a closed rear end; and a splash-resistant surface mount having removably mounted to the facepiece, the surface mount housing having the hollow body of the instrument housing disposed therein.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 22, 1988
    Date of Patent: May 1, 1990
    Assignee: International Marine Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: Douglas W. Low
  • Patent number: 4905518
    Abstract: An accelerometer, consisting of a body having a threaded coaxial nipple for screwably securing the body to a mounting base having a connection for a signal transmission cable. The mounting base can be glued firmly or screwed to a measuring surface, and configured so that accelerometers may be mounted thereto and oriented in several axial directions. It is therefore possible to investigate several axis directions successively using one accelerometer. The object to be measured out can be provided with a large number of single- or multi-axis mounting bases, enabling the entire surface of an object to be measured stepwise in one or more axes, using one or only a few accelerometers. Furthermore the detachable connection between mounting base and accelerometer body facilitates occasional calibration of the accelerometer away from the particular measuring object.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 22, 1988
    Date of Patent: March 6, 1990
    Assignee: Kistler Instrumente AG
    Inventor: John Kubler
  • Patent number: 4901558
    Abstract: The present invention is a method and apparatus for testing filled containers. The apparatus includes both a vacuum sensor and displacement sensors in combination. A computer is utilized to analyze the data from both the vacuum sensor and the displacement sensors, and based on preselected criteria, determines the seal integrity for the container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 22, 1988
    Date of Patent: February 20, 1990
    Assignee: Geo A. Hormel & Co.
    Inventors: Lyndon R. Leining, Eric S. Vandenberg, Ralph O. Erlandson
  • Patent number: 4899574
    Abstract: A method is disclosed for testing the integrity of a container of the type which includes a thin walled cup and a flexible lid sealed to the rim of the cup. In accordance with the method a force is applied to an elongated portion of the lid which circumscribes an area which is coaxial with the center of the cup. Since the cup is sealed this application of force causes the circumscribed area to bow outwardly from the cup. The displacement of the bowed portion is then compared to the previously measured displacement for containers known to be of acceptable quality. An apparatus for performing the test has an upper test assembly with a rim which is adapted to be urged against the elongated portion of the lid. A displacement sensor is mounted within the upper test assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 1, 1989
    Date of Patent: February 13, 1990
    Assignee: The Mead Corporation
    Inventor: Thomas M. Potteiger
  • Patent number: 4893499
    Abstract: A leak in an enclosure of an integrated circuit package is detected by the steps of: filling the enclosure with a first gas at the time the enclosure is sealed; subsequently enveloping the integrated circuit package with a second gas that is different than the first gas; holding the second gas at a constant pressure over a certain time period; and sensing a surface of the enclosure, during the above steps, for the presence of microscopic deflections. If the enclosure has a gross leak, no deflection will occur when the package is initially enveloped with the second gas. If the package has a minor leak, a deflection will occur when the package is initially enveloped with the second gas, and the amount of the deflection will decrease during the holding time period.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 5, 1988
    Date of Patent: January 16, 1990
    Assignee: Unisys Corporation
    Inventors: Wilbur T. Layton, Dale L. Robinson, Jerry I. Tustaniwskyj
  • Patent number: 4887457
    Abstract: A soft package fabricated of a material with a memory is tested by placing the package in a vacuum. If there are no leaks in the package, the package undergoes a dimensional change as the vacuum is created. This dimensional change can be measured. If no dimensional changes occurs, the package has a gross leak. If the package increases in dimension and then gradually returns to its original shape, a slow leak exists. If the package grows in dimension upon creation of vacuum and retains that dimensional growth, there is no leak in the package. A test fixture for measuring the dimensional changes includes a base plate on which a package may be positioned. A support member is mounted on the base plate to support a plunger rod for reciprocal movement relative to the base plate. The plunger includes a first end that engages the package to be tested and a second end on which a platform is mounted. A counterweight is positioned onthe platform.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 28, 1988
    Date of Patent: December 19, 1989
    Assignee: Miles Inc.
    Inventor: Grant V. Humbarger
  • Patent number: 4873867
    Abstract: An apparatus for measuring the acceleration of the head or thoracic regions of an anthropomorphic dummy used in auto crash testing which is characterized by a mounting arrangement which provides redundant data capability meeting the required government regulations. Three pairs of acceleometers are mounted within test site cavities provided in the crash dummy within the strict government standards to provide two sets of three accelerometers instead of one. Each accelerometer of each pair is accomodated within a mounting structure relative to required standard reference planes and within a supecified location relative to their sensitive axes such that the data obtained therefrom may be used to obtain acceptable redundant force signals for purposes of the crash test.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 12, 1988
    Date of Patent: October 17, 1989
    Assignee: TRC, Inc.
    Inventors: Walter K. McPherson, James L. Blaker
  • Patent number: 4864860
    Abstract: A generator assembly is swingably mounted on the tail of a ski with a generator wheel for snow surface contact. A carrier component of the generator assembly is vertically positionable to permit retraction of the generator wheel from snow surface engagement. A tubular control member permits remote positioning of the carrier as by a ski pole tip. Pivot means permits horizontal swinging motion of the generator assembly. Speed indicator means are actuated by changes in current flow from the generator. Contacts on a ski binding component permit transfer of electrical current to a ski boot for various purposes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 15, 1988
    Date of Patent: September 12, 1989
    Inventor: Karl J. Manseth
  • Patent number: 4864848
    Abstract: The invention provides a leak detection system for filled and sealed pliable containers. The system comprises a continuous squeezing conveyor, a line conveyor and high and low fill level container content detectors located at predetermined positions. The squeezing conveyor moves a stream of containers while placing a predetermined pressure on the containers through a predetermined distance. The line conveyor is disposed adjacent the outlet end of the squeezing conveyor. The line conveyor is synchronized for receiving and transporting the container stream. The high fill level detector is disposed adjacent the squeezing conveyor outlet end. The low fill level detector is disposed adjacent the line conveyor at a predetermined distance downstream the squeezing conveyor outlet end.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 29, 1988
    Date of Patent: September 12, 1989
    Assignee: Minnesota Automation, Inc.
    Inventor: Gerald O. Irvine
  • Patent number: 4860585
    Abstract: A measuring and indicating device for a snow skier including a rotatable roller attachable to the rear of a ski and adapted to rotate in rolling contact with the underlying snow utilizes an indicator unit positionable remote of the roller such as upon the wrist of the skier. The device further includes elements supported adjacent the roller for sensing the rotation thereof and generating signals corresponding to the sensed rotation. The indicator unit includes a calculator for receiving the signals generated by the sensing elements and calculating a predetermined characteristic, such as speed or distance, of travel by the snow skier corresponding to the received signals. The indicator unit further includes a display for displaying the calculated characteristic in the form of a numerical value.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 4, 1988
    Date of Patent: August 29, 1989
    Inventors: William W. Tuyn, Richard R. Tuyn
  • Patent number: 4858463
    Abstract: The tightness of sealed packages is monitored by means of a process and an apparatus system which utilize and incorporate a first system section, which includes at least one reservoir and a pressure measuring cell, a second system section, which includes a rigid measuring chamber, and means for adjusting pressure of the system sections via the first system section. The first system section is first pressurized to a predetermined pressure, which may be either above or below atmospheric pressure, and then the first and second system sections are brought into communication for establishing a second pressure for the first and second system sections combined. Major leaks in the sealed packages, absence of a sample in the measuring chamber and leaks in the measuring chamber then may be detected with the aid of the pressure measuring cell.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 26, 1988
    Date of Patent: August 22, 1989
    Assignee: Nestec S. A.
    Inventors: Meinrad Rosse, Marc-Henri Rossier
  • Patent number: 4858470
    Abstract: A mounting arrangement for vibration transducers such as accelerometer sensors particularly suited for adverse environments as may be encountered with machine tool components and the like. A mounting base is permanently fixed to a vibratory surface to be monitored. This cylindrical base incorporates an annular retaining groove formed in its side surface which cooperates with an annular resilient band which is discontinuous to provide ends which, in turn, may be drawn together when the band is constricted by an external clamp. The band includes a stud ring which engages the groove of the mounting base and then permits facile engagement of a transducer base having a V-shaped groove configured at the lowermost portion thereof. The retainer ring or band also incorporates a detent ring which engages the groove of the transducer base. A hose clamp or the like then is used to constrict the resilient annular band to drive the transducer into a compressive relationship with the top surface of the mounting base.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 23, 1988
    Date of Patent: August 22, 1989
    Assignee: IRD Mechanalysis, Inc.
    Inventors: Harry R. Kincaid, Walter S. Riggs
  • Patent number: 4848154
    Abstract: A motorcycle speedometer assembly includes a casing, and a display face on the casing; a first rotary indicator at the display face and rotatable about a first axis, there being first speed indicating indicia on the display first face with which the indicator registers as it rotates about the axis; a first drive responsive to motorcycle forward speed and connected with the first indicator for rotating the indicator in proportion to motorcycle speed to register with corresponding first indicia; and a second indicator at the display face and rotatable about a second axis to indicate motorcycle engine RPM, the second axis offset from the first axis, there being second indicia on the display face with which the second indicator registers as it rotates about the second axis, the second indicia indicating tachometer increasing values of RPM; and a second drive responsive to motorcycle engine RPM and connected with the second indicator for rotating the second indicator in proportion to engine speed to register with
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 5, 1988
    Date of Patent: July 18, 1989
    Assignee: Custom Chrome, Inc.
    Inventor: Ignatius J. Panzica
  • Patent number: 4845977
    Abstract: A method of detecting a possible leak in a vacuum package, including placing the package in a gauging space, shutting off the gauging space, applying a pressure in the closed gauging space higher than that in the vacuum package, and gauging the pressure in the gauging space as function of the time for a predetermined gauging period. At least two identical vacuum packages are each placed in a separate gauging space of identical size. A mutually identical initial pressure is applied in the closed gauging spaces and the pressure variation is simultaneously gauged in the closed gauging spaces, while the difference in pressure variation between the two gauging spaces is determined. An apparatus is used which includes at least two gauging spaces of identical size, each for receiving an identical vacuum package. These gauging spaces are connectable to a common space. The gauging space can be shut off from the common space. The pressure can be simultaneously gauged as a function of the time in each gauging space.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 15, 1988
    Date of Patent: July 11, 1989
    Assignee: Product Suppliers AG
    Inventor: Mathias L. C. Aarts
  • Patent number: 4841763
    Abstract: A package seal inspection system for detecting leaks in a sealed package which includes a box having a plurality of louvers mounted in a front wall, a plurality of strips mounted behind the louvers in the box, means mounted in the box behind the strips for detecting movement of the strips, means for supporting the package in front of the louvers and means for applying pressure to the top of the package whereby when a leak is present, air in the package is forced out and through the louvers to cause one or more of the strips to move and be detected by the detecting means.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 17, 1988
    Date of Patent: June 27, 1989
    Assignee: Westinghouse Electric Corp.
    Inventors: Samsuk Kang, Frank M. Bordelon
  • Patent number: 4841187
    Abstract: An electric motor with attached tachogenerator wherein the tachogenerator may be attached to electric motors of varying types without significantly changing the housing or motor shaft bearing plate configuration and while maintaining the required environmental protection. The rpm signal generator of the tachogenerator is placed onto a motor shaft end portion which extends out of the motor housing through the shaft bearing plate and is enclosed by a closable housing accommodating a detector, e.g. a coil. The housing is latchable, for example by means of detent hooks, to the bearing plate or motor housing. The arrangement is particularly useful for electric motors where dust free and liquid tight protection is required.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 23, 1988
    Date of Patent: June 20, 1989
    Assignee: Licentia Patent-Verwaltungs-GmbH
    Inventors: Dieter Hauke, Edgar Zelle
  • Patent number: H1045
    Abstract: Improved measurement of leakage in fuze seals is obtained by employing an r bubble leak indicator. The fuze to be tested is connected to an air supply line coming from an air bubble leak indicator. The air bubble leak indicator has a narrow orifice submerged in a liquid, which in turn is connected to an air supply. When the system has stabilized, any leakage from the fuze seals will result in air bubbles passing through the liquid. A light source and light detector placed at the outlet of the orifice will electronically detect bubbles and provide an electronic indication of leakage. The system also offers a visual indication of leakage. All parts of the unit being tested remain in a dry condition.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 19, 1990
    Date of Patent: May 5, 1992
    Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the Army
    Inventor: Arthur D. Wilson