Responsive To Force Patents (Class 73/862.381)
  • Patent number: 12117373
    Abstract: A utility pole testing apparatus includes three or more utility poles including a first utility pole, a second utility pole, and a third utility pole, a support line that is stretched between the first utility pole and the second utility pole, and is also stretched between the second utility pole and the third utility pole, a rail extended in a direction that intersects both a direction in which the three or more utility poles extend and a direction in which the support line is stretched between the first utility pole and the second utility pole, and a carriage configured to support the third utility pole, the carriage being movably provided along the rail together with the third utility pole.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 20, 2019
    Date of Patent: October 15, 2024
    Assignee: NIPPON TELEGRAPH AND TELEPHONE CORPORATION
    Inventors: Masaki Waki, Ryoichi Kaneko, Hiroaki Tanioka
  • Patent number: 12104979
    Abstract: A whole vehicle in-loop test system of an intelligent automobile, including: a rotary drum platform, used for simulating a longitudinal movement of a test vehicle; an environment perception platform, disposed at a front end of the rotary drum platform, used for simulating a transverse movement of a test vehicle, and including a support base at a lower portion and a vehicle placing platform at an upper portion, where a transverse drive wheel is mounted at the lower portion of the support base, and the transverse drive wheel moves along a transverse track disposed on the ground; and a target vehicle simulation unit, disposed at a periphery of the environment perception platform, and configured to simulate a target vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 28, 2020
    Date of Patent: October 1, 2024
    Assignee: TONGJI UNIVERSITY
    Inventors: Zhuoping Yu, Xichan Zhu, Lu Xiong, Gang Xu, Yi Zhou, Biao Wu, Rui Liu
  • Patent number: 11754437
    Abstract: Disclosed are methods that, by not physically touching the material being measured, can measure the material's differential, response quite accurately. A collimated light shines on the material under test, is reflected off it, and is then captured by a recording device. The position where the reflected light is captured is used to calculate the deflection of the material. Dynamic characteristics of the material under test may be determined from the deflection measurement. The vibration frequency or vibration amplitude of a cantilever can be determined by repeated deflection measurements, all without physically touching the cantilever during the measurement process.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 2019
    Date of Patent: September 12, 2023
    Assignee: UNITED STATES OF AMERICA AS REPRESENTED BY THE SECRETARY OF THE ARMY
    Inventors: Benjamin C Masters, Rebekah C Wilson
  • Patent number: 11754433
    Abstract: A load sensing system having at least one load sensing assembly for use with a weigh frame, each assembly including at least a first lever and a second lever. Each lever has a lever longitudinal axis, a lever fulcrum section, a lever load section, and a lever connector section spaced from the lever fulcrum section and the lever load section along the lever longitudinal axis. For each lever, a flexure plate is aligned in parallel with the lever longitudinal axis and has a middle bearing portion and opposing end portions with one of the end portions fixedly attached to its respective lever. Each lever fulcrum section has a lever bearing surface including one of (i) a line-of-contact rounded bearing edge oriented perpendicular to the lever longitudinal axis or (ii) a flat bearing face. The lever bearing surface of each lever touches the middle bearing portion of the flexure plate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 1, 2020
    Date of Patent: September 12, 2023
    Assignee: Hyer Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: Frank S. Hyer
  • Patent number: 11662271
    Abstract: The road simulation device includes a frame structure and a transmission structure. The transmission structure includes a first test bench, a second test bench, a third test bench and a fourth test bench. A first sliding plate structure of the first test bench slides in a first direction and a second direction, a second sliding plate structure of the second test bench slides in the first direction, and a third sliding plate structure of the third test bench slides in the second direction. The first sliding plate structure and the first base structure, the second sliding plate structure and the second base structure, the third sliding plate structure and the third base structure, as well as the fourth baffle plate structure and the fourth base structure are connected by spherical hinges. Damages to the frame structure caused by huge acting force generated by rigid connection during testing can be avoided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 21, 2022
    Date of Patent: May 30, 2023
    Assignee: Beijing Institute of Technology
    Inventors: Mingming Dong, Yitong Wang, Yue Bian, Shen Lu, Xiang Ji
  • Patent number: 11599226
    Abstract: Systems and methods of printing sensor loops on a sensor mat for use in a steering wheel are disclosed herein. For example, the sensor mat may include a base substrate, one or more printed sensing loops, and an insulating material. The printed sensing loops are made with conductive ink that is disposed upon the base substrate or the insulating layer from a print head and adheres thereto. These sensor mats are versatile with respect to the type of base substrate and insulating materials that may be used, the shape of the sensing loops, and the area each loop may occupy. Shielding loop(s) may also be printed adjacent the sensing loop(s). This configuration allows shielding for the sensing loops as part of the sensing mat, which may reduce the thickness of the steering wheel rim and manufacturing and installation times.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 29, 2020
    Date of Patent: March 7, 2023
    Assignee: Joyson Safety Systems Acquisition LLC
    Inventors: Erick Staszak, Dwayne Van'tZelfde, Jason Lisseman
  • Patent number: 11467046
    Abstract: In a stress measurement method, an object to be measured is vibrated at a plurality of oscillation frequencies, and a temperature amplitude of the object to be measured is measured by using a temperature sensor. Parameters of a one-dimensional heat conduction equation described below are identified by performing curve-fitting, on the basis of the one-dimensional heat conduction equation, on a measurement value of the temperature amplitude with respect to frequency characteristics of a temperature change component and a phase component based on a thermoelastic effect. The frequency characteristics are obtained at the plurality of oscillation frequencies. The one-dimensional heat conduction equation indicates a theoretical solution of a temperature amplitude on a surface of a coating film based on heat conduction and the thermoelastic effect of each of a substrate and the coating film. Then, a stress of the object to be measured is obtained based on the identified parameters.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 31, 2019
    Date of Patent: October 11, 2022
    Assignee: Panasonic Intellectual Property Management Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Yousuke Irie, Hirotsugu Inoue, Takuya Niioka
  • Patent number: 11421736
    Abstract: A rolling bearing unit includes: an inner ring member having a recess on a first side in an axial direction, the recess being recessed toward a second side in the axial direction; an outer ring member disposed on the outer periphery side of the inner ring member; a rolling body disposed between the inner ring member and the outer ring member and rotatably supporting the inner ring member with respect to the outer ring member; a transmitter capable of transmitting at least one of electric power or a signal, at least a part of the transmitter being accommodated inside the recess of the inner ring member; and a covering member that is supported by the first side of the outer ring member in the axial direction, covers the first side of the inner ring member in the axial direction, and fixes the transmitter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 3, 2019
    Date of Patent: August 23, 2022
    Assignee: NSK LTD.
    Inventors: Naohiro Hitomi, Daisuke Gunji, Hiroyasu Kumagai, Ricardo Rodriguez Lopez
  • Patent number: 11359942
    Abstract: According to one embodiment, a holding apparatus includes a holding mechanism, a movement mechanism, a measuring instrument, a detector, and a controller. The holding mechanism holds a mobile body. The mobile body is movable through a gap between first and second structure bodies. The first structure body is columnar and extends in a first direction. The second structure body is tubular and is located around the first structure body along a first plane perpendicular to the first direction. The movement mechanism moves the holding mechanism along a circumferential direction around the first direction. The measuring instrument measures a movement amount in the circumferential direction of the holding mechanism. The detector detects a tilt of the holding mechanism in the first plane. The controller operates the movement mechanism and moves the holding mechanism based on a measurement result of the measuring instrument and a detection result of the first detector.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 9, 2021
    Date of Patent: June 14, 2022
    Assignees: KABUSHIKI KAISHA TOSHIBA, TOSHIBA ENERGY SYSTEMS & SOLUTIONS CORPORATION
    Inventor: Hiroaki Kuwahara
  • Patent number: 11287595
    Abstract: A clamp assembly includes a body having a jaw receiving cavity. A jaw actuator assembly is positioned within the jaw receiving cavity. A first jaw member is positioned within a first jaw guide associated with the body and the jaw receiving cavity and is operatively coupled to the jaw actuator assembly. A second jaw member is positioned within a second jaw guide associated with the body and the jaw receiving cavity and is operatively coupled to the jaw actuator assembly. The first and second jaw members are movable within the jaw receiving cavity between a loading position and a clamping position. The jaw actuator assembly moves the jaw members from the loading position and the clamping position. The clamp assembly applies sufficient clamping or gripping force on the fiber optic cable to hold the fiber optic cable without degrading or damaging the fiber optic cable resulting in signal loss.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 2, 2019
    Date of Patent: March 29, 2022
    Assignee: HUBBELL INCORPORATED
    Inventors: Nicole Leigh Alves, Rabih M. Al Ghossein
  • Patent number: 11262251
    Abstract: The invention relates to a load detection unit having a spring-elastic load carrier assembly for receiving the load (10) and a sensor (3) for the deformation of the load carrier assembly, which occurs under the load (10) that is to be detected, wherein a deformation transmission unit (6) is operatively arranged between the load carrier assembly and the sensor (3). A method, in which additionally a deformation transmission unit is used, is thus provided, which during operation picks up the deformation of the load carrier assembly and transmits it to the sensor as a changed force/path load.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 9, 2018
    Date of Patent: March 1, 2022
    Assignee: Digi Sens AG
    Inventor: Olivier Stuker
  • Patent number: 11136057
    Abstract: A vehicle steering wheel includes a hoop, a plurality of presence sensors and an outer sheath. Each of the presence sensors is arranged so as to detect a proximity and/or contact between a user's limb and the hoop. The outer sheath covers the plurality of presence sensors and is stitched with at least one seam that extends around at least part of the hoop. The plurality of presence sensors is mounted on the same support, and at least one of the presence sensors is arranged facing at least part of the seam of the outer sheath.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 11, 2016
    Date of Patent: October 5, 2021
    Assignee: Autoliv Development AB
    Inventors: Jonathan Boittiaux, Fabrice Moinard
  • Patent number: 11022509
    Abstract: A measurement transducer for measuring a force includes a resonator element, which can be excited to at least one resonance frequency, and at least one force application element on which the force is applied and which transmits the force to the resonator element. The force application element is a hollow body defining a top surface, a lateral surface and a cavity. The top and lateral surfaces are mechanically connected and enclose the cavity, which contains the resonator element that is mechanically connected to the lateral surface. The lateral surface defines at least one recessed area that extends into the cavity and prevents transmission of the force from the top surface. The lateral surface defines at least one non-recessed area that transmits the force from the top surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 5, 2017
    Date of Patent: June 1, 2021
    Assignee: Kistler Holding AG
    Inventors: Claudio Cavalloni, Kim Pfluger
  • Patent number: 10843909
    Abstract: The stabilizing system for a self-propelled working machine (1) such as a telescopic handler or the like, comprising a plurality of stabilizer arms (2) able to be placed on the ground so as to enable stabilization of the machine (1). The system (1) further comprises: one or more measuring devices (6) able to detect a pressure to which the arms (2) are subjected and to produce pressure signals according to the detected pressure; and at least one processing unit connected to the measuring devices (6) and comprising a position module configured to determine, based on the pressure signals, whether the arms (2) are placed on the ground.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 14, 2018
    Date of Patent: November 24, 2020
    Assignee: MANITOU ITALIA S.R.L.
    Inventor: Marco Iotti
  • Patent number: 10753811
    Abstract: A force sensitive resistor is provided comprising: a flexible bottom layer of a first material, comprising a first conductive element attached to the bottom layer; a spacer ring attached to the bottom layer, the spacer ring surrounding the first conductive element and extending away from the bottom layer; and a flexible top sensor layer of a second material attached across the spacer ring comprising a second conductive element facing the first conductive element. The flexible top sensor layer is moveable relative to the flexible bottom layer to vary the resistance of the force sensitive resistor. The Young's Modulus of the first material is less than the Young's Modulus of the second material. The flexible bottom layer extends past the spacer ring. The foregoing arrangement locally limits the amount of flexion of the lower layer in the region surrounding the first conductive element, thereby ensuring accurate data can be obtained.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 28, 2018
    Date of Patent: August 25, 2020
    Assignee: NURVV LIMITED
    Inventors: Kemal Dervish, Haim Geva, Jason Lloyd Roberts, Giles Tongue, Grant Trewartha
  • Patent number: 10690559
    Abstract: An electronic pressure sensor array has a plurality of conductive electrodes and interconnects selectively formed on a pressure sensor substrate to form a plurality of individual pressure sensor assemblies. The individual pressure sensor assemblies can be aligned in various configurations to form the electronic pressure sensor array. Each pressure sensor assembly is made of a plurality of layers including a pressure sensor substrate, insulating layers on either side of the pressure sensor substrate, and conductive ink layers on an outer surface of each insulating layer. A cavity is formed in each insulating layer, the cavity in one insulating layer being vertically aligned with the cavity in the other insulating layer, and conductive ink fills each cavity to form electrodes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 28, 2018
    Date of Patent: June 23, 2020
    Assignee: Flex Ltd.
    Inventors: Weifeng Liu, Jie Lian, Zhen Feng, Anwar Mohammed, Murad Kurwa
  • Patent number: 10684192
    Abstract: A test rig to test a radial bearing including a first raceway, a second raceway and a plurality of rolling elements which are arranged between the first raceway and the second raceway. The test rig includes a section of the first raceway, a section of the second raceway and one or several of the plurality of rolling elements, wherein the section of the first raceway is arranged opposite to the section of the second raceway, the rolling elements are arranged between the section of the first raceway and the section of the second raceway, and the rolling elements are in contact with the sections of the first raceway and second raceway, and a means for applying load on the section of the first raceway and means for moving the section of the first raceway and the section of the second raceway relative to the one or several rolling elements.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 2, 2017
    Date of Patent: June 16, 2020
    Assignee: SIEMENS GAMESA RENEWABLE ENERGY A/S
    Inventors: Soeren Forbech Elmose, Shravan Subramanyam Janakiraman
  • Patent number: 10677671
    Abstract: A power meter for a bicycle includes a body having a torque input section and a torque output section, the body configured to transmit power between the torque input section and the torque output section. The power meter also includes an electronic device having one or more antennae configured to communicate a signal wirelessly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 19, 2018
    Date of Patent: June 9, 2020
    Assignee: SRAM, LLC
    Inventors: Ryan Jennings, John Eppen, Owen Anders Britton, Jesse Parker
  • Patent number: 10670860
    Abstract: A system for photonic computing, preferably including: an input module, computation module, and/or control module, wherein the computation module preferably includes one or more filter banks and/or detectors. A photonic filter bank system, preferably including two waveguides and a plurality of optical filters arranged between the waveguides. A method for photonic computing, preferably including: controlling a computation module; controlling an input module; and/or receiving outputs from the computation module.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 4, 2019
    Date of Patent: June 2, 2020
    Assignee: The Trustees of Princeton University
    Inventors: Alexander N. Tait, Allie X. Wu, Thomas Ferreira de Lima, Mitchell A. Nahmias, Bhavin J. Shastri, Paul R. Prucnal
  • Patent number: 10629044
    Abstract: Methods, devices, and systems for detecting incapacitation and location using nodes are described herein. One system for detecting incapacitation and location using nodes can include an impact sensor, and a node including a memory and a processor to execute executable instructions stored in the memory to determine an incapacitating event has occurred via the impact sensor, determine a location of the node using a plurality of nodes, where the plurality of nodes include the node, and transmit the incapacitating event and the location of the node to an external server.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 11, 2018
    Date of Patent: April 21, 2020
    Assignee: Honeywell International Inc.
    Inventors: Hai D. Pham, Robert C. Becker, Adam P. Boutz, Christian Larson, Conrad Ihla
  • Patent number: 10197458
    Abstract: The invention is an improved header and corresponding port associated with a transducer assembly. The header and port define mating threaded portions, thread stop portions, and a weld gap region. The thread stop portions are configured to mate and maintain a pre-loading tension between the threaded portions during and after applying a weld in the weld gap region. The weld gap region is configured to have a predetermined gap distance such that the weld seals the transducer without stress in the weld. The mating of the first and second thread stops are configured to maintain at least a portion of the pre-loading tension.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 30, 2017
    Date of Patent: February 5, 2019
    Assignee: Kulite Semiconductor Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Dominic Catalano, Sergio Radossi, Robert Gardner
  • Patent number: 10144636
    Abstract: A sensor for measuring, for example, the pressure of a gas or other fluid comprising a glass substrate having an aperture defined therethrough. A semiconductor die defining a diaphragm is anodically bonded to the glass substrate such that the diaphragm is exposed via the aperture. At least one electrically conductive element in electrical communication with the semiconductor die is arranged on a surface of the glass substrate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 26, 2016
    Date of Patent: December 4, 2018
    Assignee: MEAS Switzerland S.a.r.l.
    Inventors: Jean-Francois le Neal, Predrag Drljaca
  • Patent number: 10137855
    Abstract: A multi-point safety belt system is provided with a tension sensor that opens and closes a switch to send a signal indicating the force securing a seat occupant secured by the safety belt system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 16, 2016
    Date of Patent: November 27, 2018
    Assignee: Key Safety Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Brian Schmidt, John Joseph Pollard
  • Patent number: 9677958
    Abstract: A preload device has a receiving pocket for receiving a force sensor. A tool engagement section is spaced apart from the receiving pocket in the direction of the longitudinal axis. At least one elastically flexible section is non-detachably arranged between the receiving pocket and at least one of at least two force introduction plates. Elastic bending of the at least one elastically flexible section through the application of forces to at least one of the force introduction plates and to the tool engagement section effects a reduction in the height of a relaxed state of the preload device to facilitate insertion of the preload device in a recess in a machine part or between multiple machine parts or in a drum.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 1, 2015
    Date of Patent: June 13, 2017
    Assignee: KISTLER HOLDING AG
    Inventor: Thiel Rolf
  • Publication number: 20150143924
    Abstract: Disclosed herein are a test apparatus of a fluidic sample, which tests the fluidic sample, and a control method thereof. The test apparatus of the fluidic sample includes a housing, an installing member in which a cartridge receiving a fluid is inserted, a pressing member which is disposed in the housing to press the cartridge and perform an inspection of the fluid, a driving unit of which at least a part is coupled to the pressing member so as to movably drive the pressing member, and a sensing unit of which at least a part is opposite to the driving unit so as to sense a position of the driving unit. According to the present invention, since the sensing unit can recognize the position of the driving unit, the pressing member can apply uniform pressure to the cartridge.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 2, 2013
    Publication date: May 28, 2015
    Applicant: SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Hyun Suk KANG
  • Publication number: 20150128726
    Abstract: The invention relates to a test bench (1) for testing a drive train of a wind turbine, comprising a drive device (40) for introducing test power into the drive train, which can be detachably connected to a drive train to be tested. The invention further relates to a method for testing a drive train of a wind turbine by way of a test bench (1), and to a drive train of a wind turbine. The test bench (1) according to the invention is characterized in that the drive device (40) for testing a drive train is or will be fitted and mounted on or to the drive train so as to be removable, wherein most of the weight of the drive device (40) is borne by the drive train when the drive device (40) is fitted or mounted.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 22, 2015
    Publication date: May 14, 2015
    Inventor: Carsten Eusterbarkey
  • Patent number: 9021898
    Abstract: A microelectromechanical sensor is configured to measure a force, a pressure, or the like. The sensor includes a substrate and a measuring element. The measuring element includes at least two electrically conductive regions, and at least one of the electrically conductive regions is at least partly connected to the substrate. The sensor also includes at least one changing region, and the changing region lies at least partly between the electrically conductive regions. The changing region is configured in a substantially electrically insulating manner in an unloaded state and in a substantially electrically conductive manner in a loaded state.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 21, 2011
    Date of Patent: May 5, 2015
    Assignee: Robert Bosch GmbH
    Inventor: Tino Fuchs
  • Publication number: 20150077343
    Abstract: An input device is provided in the present application. The input device includes a first panel and a second panel, the first panel is provided with multiple grooves; the second panel is located under the first panel or fused to a bottom of the first panel, and includes a sensing unit configured to sense a key. In the input device, each of the grooves is arranged to correspond to one key area, and a key command may be input by performing a touch key operation on a corresponding sensing unit under the groove. Compared with the conventional input device, in the input device of the present application, the input of the key command may be realized without key caps and scissor-shaped structures for supporting the key caps, thereby shortening the key travel and reducing the thickness of the input device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 31, 2014
    Publication date: March 19, 2015
    Applicants: Lenovo (Beijing) Co., Ltd., Beijing Lenovo Software Ltd.
    Inventors: Xiang Shao, Qing Liu, Jinping Yang, Qi Li
  • Publication number: 20150059494
    Abstract: A system for monitoring and measuring impact forces imparted to an individual using force sensors, electronics for real-time transmission of sensed data to a remote server, software algorithms to calculate effects of the sensed forces and to determine whether to send an alert notification to at least one remote recipient. Embodiments further include individual body protection devices using multi-layer composite materials that are sized and shaped to an individual, and incorporating at least one force sensor, and electronics for real-time transmission of sensed data to a remote server having software algorithms to calculate effects of sensed forces and to determine whether to send an alert notification to at least one remote recipient, as disclosed in the specification of this application.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 3, 2014
    Publication date: March 5, 2015
    Inventor: Kaydon A. Stanzione
  • Patent number: 8966999
    Abstract: One or more techniques and/or systems are disclosed for generating a linearized pressure sensor pattern for a pressure sensor. Force may be applied to a pressure sensor sample, comprising the pressure sensor without conductors. A patch, comprising an area of contact between a top and bottom surface of the sensor sample, can be measured, which corresponds to the applied force. Patch measurements can be made for respective applied force intervals, resulting in one or more indications of applied force, respectively corresponding to an indication of a patch measurement. The linearized pressure sensor pattern can be generated using the one or more force indications and corresponding patch measurement indications.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 17, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 3, 2015
    Assignee: Microsoft Corporation
    Inventor: Duane Martin Evans
  • Patent number: 8960022
    Abstract: A device for detecting the likelihood of the presence of at least one human finger on a surface, and a method of using the device in the user interface of a machine, device or system. The device comprises at least one element having piezoelectric characteristics, located under a surface, the element arranged in the device in such a manner that a force when exerted on the surface, such as when the surface is pressed by finger, is transferred to mechanical stress of the element, the element then producing a voltage output in response to the mechanical stress. Also included are means for measuring the voltage output in a predefined time period and means for determining the degree of stability of the measured voltage output, and configured to indicate whether or not the degree of stability shows that the measured voltage output is likely to be a human finger or not.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 8, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 24, 2015
    Assignee: Aito B.V.
    Inventors: Sakari Tanhua, Kasper Rönning, Pauli Laitinen
  • Patent number: 8955397
    Abstract: A test system configured to impart a body disturbance to a test specimen and measure motion or displacement of the test specimen in response to the input body disturbance. The system includes one or more actuator devices configured to replicate motion or displacement of the body imparted through the original input body disturbance utilizing the measured motion or displacement. As disclosed, the system includes algorithms or instructions to generate control parameters utilizing the measured motion or displacement to control operation of the one or more actuator devices. The force applied through the one or more actuator devices to replicate the measured motion or displacement is used to determine the force or load applied to the body via the input disturbance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 19, 2012
    Date of Patent: February 17, 2015
    Assignee: MTS Systems Corporation
    Inventors: Byron J. Saari, David M. Fricke
  • Publication number: 20150040687
    Abstract: Provided is a sensor device capable of removing the influence of each offset voltage of a sensor element, a differential amplifier, and an amplifier of the sensor device, to thereby detect a physical quantity with high precision and respond to high-speed operation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 22, 2014
    Publication date: February 12, 2015
    Inventors: Minoru ARIYAMA, Daisuke MURAOKA, Tomoki HIKICHI, Kentaro FUKAI
  • Patent number: 8950277
    Abstract: A return container for a sensor device and methods of forming a sensor device return container are disclosed. Generally, the apparatus may include a deflecting blade, a handle, and an indicator. The deflecting blade has a shaft and planar portion extending from respective ends. The planar portion can be placed proximate a working surface associated with a conveyor bearing and movable to provide the tension force on the belt. The handle is connected to the shaft and provides a torque when the handle is moved about an axis of the shaft. As an initial torque is applied to the shaft, the planar portion applies a first force against the working surface. The indicator is on the handle and measures the tension force on the belt when the handle provides a sufficiently increased torque such that the planar portion minimally deflects the working surface to a predetermined position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 21, 2013
    Date of Patent: February 10, 2015
    Assignee: FedEx Ground, Inc.
    Inventors: Daniel Bodeker, James A. Grund
  • Patent number: 8943906
    Abstract: A solenoid force measurement system includes: a first plate having an opening for receiving a solenoid; a second plate separated from the first plate by an air-gap; a force detection unit located within the second plate for measuring a force exerted by the solenoid; a height control device coupled to the second plate the height control device configured to adjust the size of the air-gap.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 29, 2012
    Date of Patent: February 3, 2015
    Assignee: Caterpillar Inc.
    Inventors: Sudhindra K. Ayanji, Greg Weyeneth, Jay Venkataraghavan
  • Publication number: 20150020612
    Abstract: A method of monitoring forces in a planter includes measuring compressive force between contacting surfaces of the depth regulation member. The measuring may be performed with a sensor such as a piezoresistive sensor. An apparatus for monitoring force on a planter includes a sensor for measuring compressive force between contacting surfaces of a depth regulation member of the planter.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 15, 2014
    Publication date: January 22, 2015
    Inventors: Ryan Witt, Scott Eichorn
  • Publication number: 20150010678
    Abstract: The present application relates to a pouch location device (18) for a machine (10) for dispensing beverages or foods, and in particular to a device for enabling a soft pouch (31) containing beverage or food ingredients to be accurately located in a bar code reader (37). The pouch location device comprises a slot (17) for receiving at least an end of a flexible pouch. The slot (17) has an entry aperture (32) at one end, an end wall (34) at the opposing end, a substantially transparent window (30) defining the top of the slot, a spring biased platen (33) defining the base of the slot. The platen (33) defines the lower lip of the entry aperture (32) and is angled to taper the slot (17) towards the end wall (34).
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 12, 2012
    Publication date: January 8, 2015
    Applicant: KRAFT FOODS R & D, INC.
    Inventor: Andrew Bentley
  • Patent number: 8915151
    Abstract: Disclosed is an active skin including: a tactile sensor substrate which includes a first film including a dielectric elastic material and formed with a plurality of sensing points, and a pair of first electrodes respectively formed on upper and lower sides of the sensing point; a tactile actuator substrate which includes a second film including a dielectric elastic material and formed with a plurality of actuating points, and a pair of second electrodes respectively formed on upper and lower sides of the actuating point; and an insulating layer which is interposed between the tactile sensor substrate and the tactile actuator substrate and couples the tactile sensor substrate and the tactile actuator substrate. With this, a tactile sensor and a tactile actuator are integrated, so that there is provided an interactive tactile interface to not only feel like a human's skin but also actively move like a muscle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 1, 2010
    Date of Patent: December 23, 2014
    Assignee: Sungkyunkwan University Foundation for Corporate Collaboration
    Inventors: Hyouk-Ryeol Choi, Hyung-Pil Moon, Ja-Choon Koo, Se-Gon Roh
  • Publication number: 20140366647
    Abstract: Waveguides and electromagnetic cavities fabricated in hyperuniform disordered materials with complete photonic bandgaps are provided. Devices comprising electromagnetic cavities fabricated in hyperuniform disordered materials with complete photonic bandgaps are provided. Devices comprising waveguides fabricated in hyperuniform disordered materials with complete photonic bandgaps are provided. The devices include electromagnetic splitters, filters, and sensors.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 17, 2012
    Publication date: December 18, 2014
    Applicant: THE TRUSTEES OF PRINCETON UNIVERSITY
    Inventors: Paul J. Steinhardt, Marian Florescu, Salvatore Torquato
  • Patent number: 8880358
    Abstract: A sensing device including a sensor, a triggering mechanism and a covering is provided. The covering is positioned in contact with a body such that the triggering mechanism extends from a moving segment to a reference segment and across a joint center located therebetween. Movement of the moving segment activates the triggering mechanism to provide a force input to the sensor, actuating the sensor to generate an output defining at least one measurement of the movement. The measurement may be one or more of rotation, translation, velocity, acceleration, and joint angle. An intermediate mechanism may be interposed between the triggering mechanism and the sensor. The sensing device may include a means to process or record measurements corresponding to movement of the moving segment and joint center. A system and method of measuring the movement of a moving segment is also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 15, 2011
    Date of Patent: November 4, 2014
    Inventor: Thomas J. Cunningham
  • Patent number: 8857273
    Abstract: An actuation assembly adapted for driving a load, and protecting against overload conditions, includes an actuator defining a stroke, and a resistive member, such as a superelastic shape memory alloy spring, drivenly coupled to the actuator, so as to be displaced over the stroke when an overload condition exists, and defining a non-linear force versus displacement profile.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 27, 2012
    Date of Patent: October 14, 2014
    Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations LLC
    Inventors: Nilesh D. Mankame, Richard J. Skurkis
  • Patent number: 8850901
    Abstract: An actuation assembly adapted for driving a load, and protecting against overload conditions, includes an actuator defining a stroke, and an overload protection device including at least one elastic member having a nonlinear force-deflection characteristic defining a limit point and negative stiffness region, drivenly coupled to the actuator opposite the load, and operable to provide a secondary work output path when an overload condition exists.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 19, 2013
    Date of Patent: October 7, 2014
    Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations LLC
    Inventors: Nilesh D. Mankame, Richard J. Skurkis
  • Patent number: 8844383
    Abstract: A pressure detection device includes a connection seat, a pressure transducer connected to the connection seat, and an overload protection member connected to the connection seat. The pressure transducer includes a housing and a detection sleeve received in the housing. The housing is mounted on the connection seat. The overload protection member is positioned above the detection sleeve. A buffering space is formed between the overload protection member and the detection sleeve, so that the overload protection member can bear an amount of exerted pressure when being overloaded.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 25, 2012
    Date of Patent: September 30, 2014
    Assignees: Hong Fu Jin Precision Industry (ShenZhen) Co., Ltd., Hon Hai Precision Industry Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Wei-Hua Liu, Yan-Cheng Bao, Ai-Jun Tang
  • Publication number: 20140283624
    Abstract: The present invention provides a load-indicating device for use with structural assemblies that have fastening components such as nuts and bolts. The load-indicating device comprising a washer having a tubular body defining a bore extending therethrough, the body comprising at least one hole extending at least partially through the body; and a probe configured to be disposed within the at least one hole and operable to provide an indication of the compression on the washer, such that, in use, the washer deflects to compress the hole against the probe when the load on the washer reaches a predetermined tension.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 29, 2012
    Publication date: September 25, 2014
    Applicant: FASTENERS SOLUTIONS LIMITED
    Inventors: Maria Jane Phipps, Stan Jane Ceney
  • Patent number: 8840548
    Abstract: The information relating to physical and/or biomedical parameters of a person carrying out, in real conditions, an activity distinguished by high mechanical stresses is detected by sensors (10, 12, 16, 18, 20, 22, 30) which are mounted on, or form part of, a garment worn while carrying out said activity. During all the stages of said activity this information is converted into data in digital format which are stored in an electronic recording device (100) or “data logger”. Advantages: the stored data may be used by other persons also far from the location where the activity is being performed and/or at a later time.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 23, 2006
    Date of Patent: September 23, 2014
    Assignee: Alpinestars Research SRL
    Inventor: Giovanni Mazzarolo
  • Publication number: 20140260687
    Abstract: Methods, systems, and apparatus, including computer programs encoded on a computer storage medium, for monitoring a load condition over a specified area In one aspect, a load sensor comprises: a protective top cover having a load transfer assembly; a bottom plate attachable to the top cover; the bottom plate including a circuit board comprising; a load sensor, a power source; and a wireless processor; wherein the circuit board is configured on the bottom plate such that the load transfer assembly of the top plate is in contact with the load sensor.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 13, 2014
    Publication date: September 18, 2014
    Applicant: Beldon Technologies, Inc.
    Inventor: Bradford Beldon
  • Patent number: 8833180
    Abstract: An improved header assembly and corresponding port assembly comprising a tensioning member, wherein the tensioning member is isolated and separate from the weld portion and is adapted to place a threaded portion between the header assembly and port assembly in tension and maintain such tension, and thus relieve tension from the weld, before and after welding, thereby increasing the lifespan of the header and port assemblies.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 7, 2013
    Date of Patent: September 16, 2014
    Assignee: Kulite Semiconductor Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Sergio Radossi, Adam Kane
  • Publication number: 20140230571
    Abstract: An apparatus is disclosed comprising a suite of sensors for measuring instant static and dynamic pressure, speed of the water flowing past the vessel in the direction of travel of the vessel, acceleration of the vessel in the direction of motion, and position of a vessel, such as a row boat. A microprocessor receives data from the sensors and calculates power expended by the rower, paddler, or other human or non-human power source by finding the total of all forces impinging upon the vessel and passengers, thereafter multiplying by the speed of the water flowing past the vessel in the direction of travel of the vessel. In one embodiment data is stored for later analysis or for downloading to a computer or other data storage device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 26, 2014
    Publication date: August 21, 2014
    Applicant: VELOCOMP, LLC.
    Inventors: TRAVIS PAPE, JOHN HAMANN
  • Publication number: 20140224040
    Abstract: Steering wheel hand detection systems are disclosed herein. The systems can optionally be used with a system for identifying the presence and/or location of a driver's hands on the steering wheel. The systems include a sensor mat including a plurality of sensor loops arranged in the steering wheel to achieve multiple sensing zones. Because the systems include a sensor mat including a plurality of sensor loops, the systems can be implemented in steering wheels having different designs. The systems can also be implemented to achieve different numbers and/or types (e.g., tap detection, swipe detection, grip detection, etc.) of sensing zones. Additionally, the systems can be implemented in a way that reduces the likelihood of crosstalk due to wire routing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 12, 2014
    Publication date: August 14, 2014
    Applicant: TK Holdings, Inc.
    Inventors: Dwayne Van'tZelfde, Valerie Dawn Gardner, Jason Carl Lisseman
  • Publication number: 20140224041
    Abstract: A support structure stabilizes a position of a load measurement sensor by ensuring the rigidity of a support bracket supporting the sensor. The support structure supports the sensor, including an extension shaft portion extending from a sensor body, by each of attachment bracket and while the extension shaft portion is located at the lateral side of the sensor body, wherein each of the attachment brackets and includes an upright wall that is provided with an insertion hole into which the extension shaft portion is inserted when the sensor is supported, a bottom wall that intersects the upright wall and contacts the upright wall at one end in the seat width direction, and an upward protruding wall provided at a position contacting the bottom wall at the other end opposite the upright wall in the seat width direction of the bottom wall, intersecting the bottom wall, and facing the upright wall.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 27, 2012
    Publication date: August 14, 2014
    Applicant: TS TECH CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Hidetoshi Ozawa, Wataru Honda