Abstract: This invention comprises a device for measuring root pulling force (RPF) in a plant. The RPF device comprises a plant grasping mechanism, as well as a force measurement sensor. In certain embodiments, the device is automatic, so that the “hand of man” is not required to exert force on the plant while the root pulling force of the plant is being measured. Also disclosed is a root pulling force motion mechanism, which brings the RPF device into proximity of a plant to be measured. Further disclosed is a method for measuring root pulling force of a plant.

Abstract: A method of determining bearing preload by vibration measurement including mounting the bearing on a vibration tester, the outer ring clamped preventing rotation, mounting a sensor proximate the outer ring to measure vibration, the bearing inner ring rotated to excavate eigen-frequencies, the measured vibration data transmitted from the sensor to a computer workstation, the computer workstation performs a numerical FFT transforming data to Frequency Domain, spectral data from the FFT analyzed with the computer workstation, a peak detection algorithm determines the peaks that are the various modes of the outer ring, the modes are sorted and main modes identified, numerical relationship is obtained for each mode between the resonance and preload, the mode relationships are compared to one or more references, a match between the numerical relationships for each mode and the ideally referenced graph modes indicates a correct preload is determined. Also, a system for carrying out the method.

Abstract: A microelectromechanical transducer includes a semiconductor body having first and second surfaces opposite to one another. A plurality of trenches extend in the semiconductor body from the first surface towards the second surface, including a first pair of trenches having a respective main direction of extension along a first axis, and a second pair of trenches having a respective main direction of extension along a second axis orthogonal to the first axis. A first piezoresistive sensor and a second piezoresistive sensor extend at the first surface of the semiconductor body respectively arranged between the first and second pair of trenches. The first piezoresistive sensor, the second piezoresistive sensor and the plurality of trenches form an active region. A first structural body is mechanically coupled to the first surface of the semiconductor body to form a first sealed cavity which encloses the active region.

Abstract: A microelectromechanical system (MEMS) sensor device comprising at least one microelectromechanical system sensor to characterize intracellular dynamics and behavior of a living biological cell so as to quantitatively measure the mechanical strength thereof. The microelectromechanical system sensor being responsive to mechanical force changes during said cell's contraction, migration, proliferation and differentiation.

Abstract: A terminal testing device provides an adapter customized to a port of a connector being tested so that force applied to the adapter identifies loose and fixed terminals in the connector. The adapter includes springs and push pins that correspond in number to the number of terminals being tested and has a face plate that corresponds to the type of connector being tested. The push pins provide force against the terminal end. Specifically, the device seats the adapter and connector to align both and permit force to be in line with terminal ends. The force applied to the terminal ends is uniform and controlled by means of the adapter and is obtained by a single driving means.

Abstract: Described are techniques for force sensing. A computing device is configured to have a desired force setting. A first vertical position of a needle is determined using the computer device. A control signal is sent from the computing device to a positioning device. In response to the control signal, the needle is positioned at the first vertical position. When in the first vertical position, surfaces of a tip of the needle are in contact with surfaces of an opening of a sealing member and positioning the needle causes application of a force at surfaces of the opening in contact with surfaces of the tip of the needle. In response to application of the force, a spring is compressed a distance that is proportional to the force. The force is measured using a force sensor.

Abstract: Systems and devices are described for measuring tension in a guide wire in a tower service lift for ascending and descending wind turbine generator towers. The present disclosure also describes methods for measuring the tension in the guide wire as well as installing a device for measuring the tension in the guide wire.

Abstract: Apparatus and method for controlling an electric motor providing assistance to a bicycle rider based on measuring the mechanical power generated by the rider. The power generated by the rider is measured by measuring tension in a bicycle chain (or belt) and RPM. A chain (or belt) roller is carried at the free end of a cantilevered beam and the chain (or belt) rides over the roller. The resulting deflection of the cantilevered beam provides a measurement of chain tension. A control signal for the electric motor is generated based on a smoother version of the power generated by the rider.

Abstract: A system and method for tracked vehicle dynamometer testing. The dynamometer system may be configured as a treadmill electric chassis dynamometer having dual, parallel endless belts positioned as substantially flat surfaces with cleats, i.e., the tracks of a test vehicle and a dynamometer vehicle. The track assemblies of the test vehicle and the dynamometer vehicle are generally vertically, mechanically coupled in close contact with each other via a retention fixture. The testing may be conducted in a climatic chamber to simulate various environmental conditions.

Abstract: Sensing devices including flexible and stretchable fabric-based pressure sensors, may be associated with or incorporated in garments intended to be worn against a body surface (directly or indirectly), or may be associated with other types of flexible substrates, such as sheet-like materials, bandages and other materials that contact the body (directly or indirectly), and may be provided as independently positionable sensor components. Systems and methods for storing, communicating, processing, analyzing and displaying data collected by sensor components for remote monitoring of conditions at body surfaces, or within the body, are also disclosed. Sensors and sensor systems provide substantially real-time feedback relating to current body conditions and may provide notifications or alerts to users, caretakers and/or clinicians, enabling early intervention when conditions indicate intervention is appropriate.

Abstract: To measure contact pressure of each of a plurality of small protrusions arranged at a narrow pitch and contacting a flat surface, provided is a contact pressure detection apparatus comprising a sensor section that is contacted by a target and has pressure applied thereto by the target; a light source section that radiates light with a wavelength causing Raman scattering in the sensor section to which the pressure is applied; and a detecting section that receives light from the sensor section and detects the pressure between the sensor section and the target. Also provided is a contact point pressure measurement apparatus that measures contact pressure of an electrode of a device under test, comprising: a fixing section that has the device under test mounted thereon and fixes the electrode of the device under test in a manner to press against the sensor section; and the contact pressure detection apparatus.

Abstract: Systems and devices are described for measuring tension in a guide wire in a tower service lift for ascending and descending wind turbine generator towers. The present disclosure also describes methods for measuring the tension in the guide wire as well as installing a device for measuring the tension in the guide wire.

Abstract: A method and a device for simulating a body that is moved in a translational or rotational manner. The method includes detecting a force that acts on the body or a torque (MW), and assigning a reference mass or a reference moment of inertia (Jsoll) to the body. The force or the torque (Mw) and the reference mass or the reference moment of inertia (Jsoll) are used to determine a reference speed (?soll) for a speed control which controls an actual speed (?ist) using a control transmission function (G(s)), and the reference speed (?soll) is determined by means of a transmission element using a transmission function (P(s)) that is reciprocally proportional to the control transmission function (G(s)).

Abstract: A binding force testing device for testing the binding force of a hinge, includes a control chassis for controlling the binding force testing device; a platform mounted on the control chassis; a support mounted on the control chassis above the platform; a first driving device mounted on the support; a main holder mounted on the first driving device facing the platform; and a second driving device mounted on the support and connected to the first driving device. The first driving device drives the main holder to move relative to the platform in a first direction; the second driving device drives the first driving device to move relative to the platform in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction.

Abstract: A binding force testing device for testing the binding force of a hinge, includes a control chassis for controlling the binding force testing device; a platform mounted on the control chassis; a support mounted on the control chassis above the platform; a first driving device mounted on the support; a main holder mounted on the first driving device facing the platform; and a second driving device mounted on the support and connected to the first driving device. The first driving device drives the main holder to move relative to the platform in a first direction; the second driving device drives the first driving device to move relative to the platform in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction.

Abstract: The invention relates to a connecting clement (5) between two orthopedic components, in particular prosthesis or orthosis components, which are rigidly coupled to one another and comprise a top part (2) and a bottom part (8). The connecting element (5) has a laminar structure, and at least one sensor (20) is arranged in the connecting element (5) in order to determine an effective moment or an effective force.

Abstract: Cloth in which fibers include conductive polymer fibers in order to provide a sensor and an actuator, which use cloth including excellent sensing function and actuation function.

Abstract: A test apparatus for testing a separation force between a housing (92) and a subsidiary element (94) of a portable electronic device (100). The housing defines a plurality of through holes. The subsidiary element is attached to the housing, and covers the through holes. The test apparatus includes: a positioning apparatus (50), a push mechanism (60) and a test machine (70). The positioning apparatus positions the housing with the subsidiary element therein. The push mechanism includes a support board (62) and a plurality of rods (64). The rods are mounted in the support board. The rods pass through the through holes and resisting the subsidiary element. The test machine provides a driven force to press the support board to separate the subsidiary element from the housing.

Abstract: To provide a oblique contact double ball bearing and a pre-load adding method for the ball bearing capable of easily adding the pre-load by performing adjustment for adding the pre-load in a wide adjustment range. In this oblique contact double ball bearing, clearances between balls and raceways and on one row are made different from clearances between balls and raceways on the other row so as to apply a thrust load to inner and outer rings, and add the pre-load to the inner and outer rings.

Abstract: A test apparatus for testing a separation force between a housing (92) and a subsidiary element (94) of a portable electronic device (100). The housing defines a plurality of through holes. The subsidiary element is attached to the housing, and covers the through holes. The test apparatus includes: a positioning apparatus (50), a push mechanism (60) and a test machine (70). The positioning apparatus positions the housing with the subsidiary element therein. The push mechanism includes a support board (62) and a plurality of rods (64). The rods are mounted in the support board. The rods pass through the through holes and resisting the subsidiary element. The test machine provides a driven force to press the support board to separate the subsidiary element from the housing.

Abstract: An electromagnetic apparatus, comprises a conductive loop comprising two parallel conductive legs joined at a free end by a sample contacting member and a magnetic circuit that imposes a magnetic field in opposite directions across the respective legs. A method of mechanically characterizing a sample, comprises imposing a magnetic field in opposite directions in each of two parallel conductive legs of a conductive loop, the legs joined at a free end by a sample contacting member.

Abstract: A force compliant mechanism (750) for a force control system (600) includes a housing (752). A force compliant volute spring member (754) that has an input end (790) and an output end (792) is disposed within the housing (752). A force actuator input shaft (798) operates in response to a force induced thereon. An output shaft (800) is coupled to the output end (792) and to a test object (802). A force transducer (780) is in operative coupling with the force actuator input shaft (798) and generates a force signal in response to the induced force. A method of reducing force transients and increasing stability within a force control system (660) includes applying a force on a test object (666). A force actuator (669) is decoupled from the test object (666). The overall stiffness of the force control system is reduced and dynamic energy is absorbed via a force compliant member (662) coupled to the test object (666) and the force actuator (669).

Abstract: The steering wheel adapter for a motor vehicle has, for connection to a steering wheel, a rotatable retaining plate (10) with at least three retaining elements (11, 12, 13) that are displaceable within a circular segment formed by the upper region of the steering wheel (50) and whereby the steering wheel (50) is frictionally connectable to said retaining plate (10). This upper circular segment is used as a free space for coupling the steering adapter to the steering wheel, with all retaining elements that serve to clamp the steering wheel to said retaining plate being disposed within this free space so that their retaining force is generated against the steering wheel from the inside. In the steering wheel plane outside the steering wheel rim, no components are therefore required that could come into conflict with other components of the motor vehicle in the vicinity of the steering wheel.

Abstract: A method of measuring the retention force of a biomedical specimen coupled to a carrier includes the measurement of the force required for magnetically decoupling the specimen from the carrier. In one embodiment, the method includes the steps of providing the specimen with an electrically conductive structure; creating an external alternating magnetic field near the specimen; increasing the amplitude and/or frequency of the magnetic field; detecting the start of the movement of the specimen on the carrier; and calculating the retention force of the specimen by determining the applied magnetic force on the basis of the parameters of the magnetic field. In other embodiments, the magnetic field may remain constant and the biomedical specimen may be moved through the field at varying speeds.

Abstract: A measuring system that relate to the measurement of relatively small one degree of freedom mechanisms, such as pivoting and rotary switches, is disclosed. In particular end effectors and a kit for assembling various end effector assemblies is disclosed, that allow for accurate measurement of torque versus angular displacement curves for various types of pivoting and rotary switches.

Abstract: The fastening member removing force measuring device according to the present invention includes a holding unit (300) for holding and pressing a fabric (953) around a snap member (921), a restricting unit for restricting the snap member (921), and a tensile force measuring unit for pulling the restricting unit away from the fabric (953) and measuring a tensile force. The holding unit (300) includes a die (420) for mounting thereon the fabric 953, and a fabric presser unit (500) for holding the fabric (953) placed on the die (420) together with the die (420).

Abstract: A constraining device comprises a plurality of jaws 34 adapted to constrain the sides of an object of constraint, support shafts 35 rotatably supporting the respective jaws so as to allow the jaws to spread and become closed, first biasing means 36 adapted to bias the respective jaws to become closed, a jaw opening/closing drive member 62 arranged at the center of the jaws so as to move close to and away from the object of constraint and press the base end portions of the jaws to drive the jaws when moved in a first direction, a second biasing means 63 adapted to bias the jaw opening/closing drive member in the first direction in order to close the jaws and a temporary holding section 66 arranged at the jaw opening/closing drive member and adapted to be engaged with the base end portions of the jaws to block the jaw opening/closing drive member against moving in the first direction but allow the jaw opening/closing drive member to move in the first direction when force exceeding a predetermined level is appli

Abstract: The present invention is to provide a test mechanism for testing a connection port of an electronic apparatus comprising a support platform on which at least one slideway is disposed, two mobile grasping components mounted respectively on these slideways such that these grasping components are able to push against both sides and one corresponding surface of the electronic apparatus and fix the electronic apparatus onto the support platform, for testing and estimating whether the connection port with a load object connected thereto in various angles meets with anticipated quality requirement.

Abstract: A control surface controller force measurement system for an aircraft is provided and includes a control surface interface for positioning the aerodynamic control surfaces on an aircraft. The control surface interface transfers mechanical force to an articulated crank, which supplies the flight control system with the desired position of the control surface. The articulated crank has a first mechanical link that is pivotable about a first pivot and a second mechanical link interconnecting the control surface interface to the first mechanical link. The second mechanical link is pivotable with respect to the control surface interface at a second pivot. A force transducer interconnects the first and second mechanical links independent of the second pivot such that the mechanical force applied to the control surface interface is represented by an electrical signal output of the force transducer.

Abstract: An apparatus for determining the unbalance of a rotational body includes a central mounting plate with a mounting fixture on which the rotational body is received, an outer frame, and a plurality of supporting webs that connect the mounting plate to the frame. The webs are configured and arranged so that the mounting plate can pivotally vibrate about a pivot axis, and translationally vibrate in the plane of the mounting plate. A first vibration transducer measures the pivoting vibration and a second vibration transducer measures the translational vibration. The pivot axis remains in the central plane of the mounting plate which coincides with the effective plane of the translational vibration measuring transducer.

Abstract: An engine testing system has a torque control system which controls at least one of an axial torque and an engine load torque. The torque control system comprises a mechanical transfer function which receives an engine torque and a current and outputs an engine speed, the axial torque and a dynamo speed, an electric transfer function which receives a command current and outputs the current, and a torque controller which receives one of a command axial torque and a command engine load torque, and at least one of the engine speed, the dynamo speed, and the axial torque and outputs the command current. A transfer function representative of the torque controller is designed using the structured singular value synthesis method so as to be adapted to the mechanical transfer function and the electric transfer function.

Abstract: An apparatus to ensure use of seat belts in motor vehicles comprises a first transmitter transmits a signal when a seat is occupied. A second transmitter transmits a signal that such seat belt is unlatched or latched. A third transmitter receives such signal and transmits a signal when such seat belt is latched but does not encircle such occupant. A fourth transmitter receives the signal indicating a seat is occupied enabling it to transmit a signal when it is activated by also receiving the signal indicating that such seat belt corresponding to an occupied seat is unlatched and the signal that such seat belt is latched but does not encircle such occupant. A disabling unit is connected to receive the signal, for preventing gear engagement when it receives the signal indicating a seat belt corresponding to an occupied seat is unlatched and latched but does not encircle such passenger.

Abstract: A method of testing a switch looks at the second derivative of the resistance force to movement. The second derivative is most indicative of the feel the operator will experience when utilizing the switch. It is desirable to keep the second derivative to a minimum for the switch at locations other than end of travel or detent positions. By investigating the second derivative, one is provided with feedback of areas on the switch that might require further investigation or re-evaluation.

Abstract: An engine testing system has a torque control system which controls at least one of an axial torque and an engine load torque. The torque control system comprises a mechanical transfer function which receives an engine torque and a current and outputs an engine speed, the axial torque and a dynamo speed, an electric transfer function which receives a command current and outputs the current, and a torque controller which receives one of a command axial torque and a command engine load torque, and at least one of the engine speed, the dynamo speed, and the axial torque and outputs the command current. A transfer function representative of the torque controller is designed using the structured singular value synthesis method so as to be adapted to the mechanical transfer function and the electric transfer function.

Abstract: In a manufacturing apparatus of a wire harness in which pallet P, on which a plurality of connectors C are juxtaposed, is moved by a pallet feeding section 1 and a pressure-contact terminal of connector C is automatically positioned at a pressure-contact position under a pressure-contact head section 4, an electric wire “a” is automatically set at a pressure-contact terminal of connector C by an electric wire supply section 2 and an electric wire setting section 3, and cover L is automatically set on connector C by a cover mounting section 5. A type and position of the electric wire “a” to be arranged and the height of press-fitting of the electric wire into the pressure-contact terminal are controlled by a program, and the operation and state are checked by a sensor.

Abstract: The sensor of the invention comprises a flexible beam of a rectangular cross section with rigid solid end blocks at both ends for securing the sensor in a tester. The beam has two symmetrically-shaped through slots cut in mutually perpendicular directiors so that they are partially intersect within a body of the beam. Each slot has at its opposite ends notches which are wider than the slots so that the distance from the inner wall of the notch to the outer side surface of the beam is shorter than the distance to this surface from the inner wall of the slot. Strain gauges are attached to mutually perpendicular surfaces at the ends of the beam which are flexible in the direction of the force being measured and are rigid in the perpendicular direction. Under effect of the loading force and of the friction force, the flexible beam acts as a pair of overlapped and mutually perpendicular parallelograms.

Abstract: Method and apparatus for measuring the breakaway and running forces required to move the plunger from its initial position toward the distal end of the syringe or cartridge barrel.