By Measuring Deflection Or A Deflecting Force Patents (Class 73/862.451)
  • Patent number: 11780125
    Abstract: A composite automatic production equipment for in-mold placement process includes a upper stamping mold having a upper die plate and punches, a lower stamping mold having a lower die plate, a punching strip feeding device sending out a punching material strip to the lower stamping mold, an insulating-sheet feeding device feeding out an insulating-film material strip intersecting to the punching material strip. The insulating-film material strip includes a main material strip and insulating sheet sets that are adhesive and detachably arranged along the main material strip. When the upper and lower die plates are closed, the punches punch the punching material strip to form semi-finished products arranged in sequence, and one of the semi-finished products is pressed to adhere to one of the insulating sheet sets. When they are separated, the insulating sheet set on the semi-finished product is torn off from the insulating-film material strip.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 16, 2021
    Date of Patent: October 10, 2023
    Assignee: QUANTA COMPUTER INC.
    Inventor: Shu-Chen Lin
  • Patent number: 10782198
    Abstract: A system and method include a gauge device and one or more of a communication device or a pulling assembly. The gauge device may be configured to send a message to display on one or more of the communication device or pulling assembly. Additionally or alternatively, the gauge device may be configured to send the message to be processed by pulling assembly to determine and perform a pull action. Additionally or alternatively, the gauge device may be configured to send the message to be executed by the pulling assembly to perform a pull action.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 5, 2017
    Date of Patent: September 22, 2020
    Assignee: GREENLEE TEXRON INC.
    Inventors: John Michael Jubeck, Daniel John Marben
  • Patent number: 9845219
    Abstract: A compact device for controlling the supply of a textile or metal thread to a processing machine, such as a textile machine or a spooling or winding machine, includes a body, at least one rotary member with which the thread cooperates, the member associated with a rotation velocity detector for detecting the rotation velocity thereof, the detector connected to a control unit, a tension detector provided for detecting the thread tension connected to such control unit. The rotary member is idle and is placed in rotation by the thread which is moved thereon, in proximity to such member the tension detector being placed. Also disclosed is a method for controlling the supply of thread actuated by such device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 3, 2014
    Date of Patent: December 19, 2017
    Assignee: BTSR INTERNATIONAL S.P.A.
    Inventor: Tiziano Barea
  • Patent number: 9366589
    Abstract: The invention relates to a sensor for measuring mechanical stress which can be adapted to cables with different gauges, made up of a body with a machined area for a strain gauge and three pivots—an upper, a lower and a central pivot—which are distributed on the front surface, the upper pivot being stationary and the lower pivot being retractable, which has a central pivot attached to the body via a movable attachment which, in a mechanical manner, enables horizontal movement thereof towards either side of the body, adapting to the gauge of the cable. The movable attachment is an attachment plate to which the central pivot is connected by a thread inserted on a screw, provided at the center of the body, in a recess having front and rear openings. The screw passes through the body from side to side in the recess and is attached by a nut.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 1, 2012
    Date of Patent: June 14, 2016
    Assignee: Dinacell Electronica, SL
    Inventor: Rafael Gonzalez Gallegos
  • Patent number: 8978485
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for inspecting a rubbing-cloth is provided. The apparatus for inspecting a rubbing-cloth includes: a base-platform provided with a pressure-sensing device on a surface thereof; a supporting-frame; a rubbing-roller, rotatably supported above the surface of the base-platform by means of the supporting-frame, with a rubbing-cloth wrapped around an outer circumference of the rubbing-roller; when the rubbing-roller is rotated, the rubbing-cloth rubs the surface of the base-platform, and the pressure-sensing device can detect pressure-sensing signals of pressure applied by the rubbing-cloth at each of detection-points on the surface of the base-platform.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 19, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 17, 2015
    Assignees: Boe Technology Group Co., Ltd., Hefei Boe Optoelectronics Technology Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Yong Hu, Hongguang Guo, Jiancheng Wang, Duan Yang, Biao Wang, Long Zhang
  • Publication number: 20150059495
    Abstract: An apparatus is described for measuring the power expended in driving a chain. A light-weight, compact, flexible structure is attached to the chain. The tension within the chain bends the flexible structure; however, the bending of the structure itself limits the maximum amount of force applied to this flexible structure. Thus, the bending of the structure will be limited and nonlinearly dependent on the chain tension. The structure is affixed to the chain such that any up or down movement of the chain is also experienced by the structure. A sensor on this structure such as a strain gauge or an accelerometer (or both) can be used to determine the chain tension. The apparatus also has a sensor to determine the speed of the chain's movement. A microcontroller produces the resulting power data which can be stored or directly provided to the user as audio, visual, or tactile information.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 29, 2014
    Publication date: March 5, 2015
    Inventor: Randal Anthony Salvatore
  • 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
  • Publication number: 20140375769
    Abstract: Disclosed is a 3D scanner in the form of a wearable glove that can be worn by a user to swiftly scan the objects that the user touches. Touching the edges or corners of the object is enough for the present invention to automatically generate the necessary 3D model of the object. The user can scan an object with holes regardless of the object's size. The wearable glove is thin and light, and can be folded and carried in the user's pocket ready for use at any time or place.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 5, 2014
    Publication date: December 25, 2014
    Inventor: Cherif Atia Algreatly
  • Patent number: 8881597
    Abstract: A measuring device is described which has a metal body deformable in accordance with a value to be measured. A sensor element having a metal carrier and ohmic resistors formed thereon in metal thin-film technique is connected to the metal body by welding and generates a signal adapted to be electrically evaluated which corresponds to the deformation of the metal body. The weld for connecting the metal body and the sensor element completely encloses the metal carrier at its circumference. The metal body has, at the welded connection with the metal carrier, a material thickness t which is completely penetrated by the weld. The value to be measured by the measuring device comprises force, pressure, temperature, torque or combinations thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 11, 2014
    Assignee: Tecsis GmbH
    Inventors: Oliver Jost, Marko Appel, Joachim Hose Von Wolframsdorff
  • Publication number: 20140238150
    Abstract: There is provided a method for evaluating prestressing force of a bonded tendon. The method includes: striking a prestressing strand of a bonded tendon with an impact hammer; measuring an acceleration response signal from the prestressing strand using an accelerometer, and receiving the acceleration response signal with a data logger; and calculating stress wave velocity based on the acceleration response signal received by the data logger, and evaluating prestressing force of the bonded tendon, based on the calculated stress wave velocity, using a controller.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 8, 2012
    Publication date: August 28, 2014
    Applicant: KOREA ELECTRIC POWER CORPORATION
    Inventors: Jung-Bum Jang, Byeong-Hwa Kim, Hong Pyo Lee
  • Publication number: 20140202263
    Abstract: A real time deflector monitoring system related to a deflector used in a seismic survey system is provided. The system includes a bridle block configured to connect the deflector to a first rope. The system further includes sensors embedded in the bridle block and configured to measure strength and direction of a tension in at least one of (A) the first rope and/or (B) one of rig ropes connecting the deflector to the bridle block. The system also includes a motion detector configured to acquire information related to deflector's motion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 2, 2013
    Publication date: July 24, 2014
    Applicant: CGG SERVICES SA
    Inventors: Hervé RICHER DE FORGES, Frederic SIMONNOT
  • Patent number: 8720266
    Abstract: A measuring device for measuring the torque of a torsion spring, includes a base, an electronic scale secured to the base, a supporting plate fixed to the base, and a holding mechanism slidably secured to the supporting plate. The holding mechanism includes a screw slidably secured to the supporting plate, two nuts engaging with the screw and arranged at opposite sides of the screw, and a holding portion for holding the torsion spring. The nuts are operated to adjust the height of the screw relative to the supporting plate, to drive the torsion spring to depress the electronic scale. The electronic scale displays a weight value for calculating the torque of the torsion spring when depressed by the torsion spring.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 29, 2012
    Date of Patent: May 13, 2014
    Assignees: Hong Fu Jin Precision Industry (ShenZhen) Co., Ltd., Hon Hai Precision Industry Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Wei Liu, Xue-Dong Tang
  • Patent number: 8635918
    Abstract: A device for monitoring belt tension includes two supporting elements for supporting a belt, a deflecting element between the supporting elements, at least one elastic element and a switch. A sufficiently high tension for a belt that is supported on the supporting elements and guided past the deflecting element may be displayed if the deflecting element has been moved in a predefined way against a restoring force of the elastic element, thereby actuating the switch.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 17, 2011
    Date of Patent: January 28, 2014
    Assignee: PolyContact AG
    Inventor: Joshua Lanter
  • Patent number: 8573069
    Abstract: A stress sensing device senses a shear force and a pressing force. The stress sensing device includes a support body, a support film, first and second piezoelectric parts and an elastic layer. The support body has an opening defined by a pair of straight parts perpendicular to a sensing direction of the shear force and parallel to each other. The support film having flexibility closes off the opening. The first piezoelectric part is disposed over the support film and straddling an inside portion and an outside portion of the opening along at least one of the straight parts of the opening as seen in plan view. The second piezoelectric part is disposed to the inside portion of the opening and set apart from the first piezoelectric part as seen in the plan view. The elastic layer covers the first piezoelectric part, the second piezoelectric part, and the support film.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 8, 2011
    Date of Patent: November 5, 2013
    Assignee: Seiko Epson Corporation
    Inventor: Tsutomu Nishiwaki
  • Patent number: 8527214
    Abstract: A mechanical seal monitoring system and method that measure the wear of seal faces of a mechanical seal where the mechanical seal seals a rotating machine portion from another portion of the machine. The system preferably uses a wear probe movable relative to a rotating seal component so that the wear probe can contact the rotating component. The wear of the seal is preferably determined by the relative movement that is required for the wear probe to contact the rotating component. Preferably, stress waves induced by the rubbing between the probe and the rotating component are detected by a stress-wave sensor, processed by a signal processor, and either displayed to the user numerically or reported to a monitoring computer. A signal intensity comparison method is preferably used to make the detection process insensitive to background noise generated by sources other than the contact of the wear probe and the rotating component.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 22, 2009
    Date of Patent: September 3, 2013
    Inventor: Michael N. Horak
  • Publication number: 20120203499
    Abstract: A deflection measurement probe includes a body portion having a cavity defined by the body portion, a first positional measurement sensor disposed in the cavity of the body portion, the first positional measurement sensor including a sensor tip extending from the body portion operative to contact a measurement surface, and a second positional measurement sensor disposed in the cavity of the body portion, the first positional measurement sensor including a sensor tip extending from the body portion operative to contact a measurement surface.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 9, 2011
    Publication date: August 9, 2012
    Applicant: GENERAL ELECTRIC COMPANY
    Inventors: Brock Matthew Lape, William Gene Newman, Stuart Alan Oliver
  • Patent number: 8001852
    Abstract: The invention concerns a system for detecting a rupture inside a portion (6; 12; 13; 15) at least of one structure, delimited by a first (7; 16) and a second (7; 17) reference points of the structure, said portion having a predetermined stiffness in the absence of rupture and being subjected to a tensile or compressive stress (F). The method includes the following steps: detecting at least one length variation inside the portion of the structure, in response to a variation (?F) of the tensile or compressive stress applied to said portion; deducing from the detected variation length, the existence or not of a rupture inside said portion of the structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 2006
    Date of Patent: August 23, 2011
    Assignee: Freyssinet
    Inventors: Eric Laurent, Bernard Basile
  • Patent number: 7971495
    Abstract: An apparatus can measure a tensile force in a continuously running material, such as a material web or strand. The apparatus can facilitating an improved absorption of force and a more precise measurement while at the same time enabling simpler manufacture and easier installation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 20, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 5, 2011
    Assignee: Texmag GmbH Vertriebsgesellschaft
    Inventors: Wolfgang Loenner, Thomas Roessle, Roland Palatzky
  • Patent number: 7856894
    Abstract: The invention concerns a device (1) for measuring the strip tension in a metal strip, especially a steel strip, which device has a flat, level table (2), over which the metal strip can run and at one end (3) of which a plurality of measuring elements (4) is mounted, which are suitable for measuring the strip tension, where cooling elements (5) are provided, which are installed under the table (2) and with which cooling liquid, especially water, can be carried into the area of the measuring element (4). In order to secure the table against sagging in a simple way, the invention provides that the cooling elements (5) have a box-like cooling liquid tank (6), which is arranged on both sides of the metal strip on at least one support member, such that the underside of the table (2) rests directly or indirectly on the box-like cooling liquid tank (6).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 3, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 28, 2010
    Assignee: SMS Siemag Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventors: Matthias Kipping, Matthias Tuschhoff, Martina Ebenbeck, Heinz Niehues
  • Patent number: 7762150
    Abstract: A load detecting device for a vehicle seat includes a supporting base adapted to be mounted on a floor of the vehicle, a plurality of load sensors arranged along a forward and backward direction of a seat for the vehicle on the supporting base, the load sensors including a load input portion, a deflection portion deflecting by a load and a deflection gauge measuring an amount of deflection, the load sensors detecting the load based on the amount of deflection measured by the deflection gauge, a connecting member connecting the load input portions, a seat supporting member connected to the connecting member and adapted to support the seat for the vehicle, the seat supporting member transmitting load to the connecting member, and a stopper preventing deformation of the connecting member in a vertical direction of the seat when load which exceeding a predetermined value is applied to the connecting member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 20, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 27, 2010
    Assignees: Aisin Seiki Kabushiki Kaisha, Toyota Jidosha Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Hideki Kawabata, Muneto Inayoshi, Kan Ichihara, Hiroyuki Fujii, Kenichiro Akizuki, Minoru Izawa
  • Patent number: 7707901
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for measuring containment force on a load is provided. The apparatus may include a first longitudinally extending arm configured to engage a first side of packaging material wrapped around the load. The apparatus may also include a second longitudinally extending arm configured to engage a second side of the packaging material, the second side being opposite the first side. The apparatus may further include an indicator positioned substantially perpendicularly to the first and second arms, a third longitudinally extending arm, and a force gauge configured to measure a force exerted on the third longitudinally extending arm.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 21, 2008
    Date of Patent: May 4, 2010
    Assignee: Lantech.com LLC
    Inventors: Patrick R. Lancaster, III, David E. Eldridge, Curtis W. Martin
  • Publication number: 20090139350
    Abstract: The invention concerns a device (1) for measuring the strip tension in a metal strip, especially a steel strip, which device has a flat, level table (2), over which the metal strip can run and at one end (3) of which a plurality of measuring elements (4) is mounted, which are suitable for measuring the strip tension, where cooling elements (5) are provided, which are installed under the table (2) and with which cooling liquid, especially water, can be carried into the area of the measuring element (4). In order to secure the table against sagging in a simple way, the invention provides that the cooling elements (5) have a box-like cooling liquid tank (6), which is arranged on both sides of the metal strip on at least one support member, such that the underside of the table (2) rests directly or indirectly on the box-like cooling liquid tank (6).
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 3, 2007
    Publication date: June 4, 2009
    Inventors: Matthias Kipping, Matthias Tuschhoff, Martina Ebenbeck, Heinz Niehues
  • Patent number: 7493810
    Abstract: A mechanical load bearing indicator producing signals to a user when the user applies more than selected amounts of load between an extremity of the use and a surface. The indicator has a base plate adapted to establish a frame of reference with the surface, a load plate mounted for movement toward and away from the base plate and adapted to receive loads from the user's extremity, and at least two snap domes mechanically engaged between the base plate and the load plate for generating two signals when more than two different respective loads are applied to the load plate by the extremity. The domes are either in series between the plates or are together in a dual dome containing both, or are one or more stacks of domes which individually collapse under incremental loads which are added together to form the selected lower and higher loads.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 18, 2006
    Date of Patent: February 24, 2009
    Assignee: Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute
    Inventors: Daniel F. Walczyk, Stephen Bornhoft
  • Patent number: 7485100
    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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 7, 2004
    Date of Patent: February 3, 2009
    Assignee: Massachusetts Institute of Technology
    Inventors: Michael Garcia-Webb, Ian W. Hunter, Andrew J. Taberner
  • Patent number: 7454979
    Abstract: A load sensor includes a housing and a magnet carrier axially movable within the housing. A first and a second magnet are coupled to the magnet carrier in an axially spaced apart arrangement and oriented to provide repelling magnetic fields. The magnet carrier and the first and second magnets are axially movable relative to the magnetic field sensor, and the magnetic field sensor is configured to provide an output that is indicative of the position of the magnetic filed sensor relative to the first and second magnets.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 22, 2006
    Date of Patent: November 25, 2008
    Assignee: Stoneridge Control Devices, Inc.
    Inventors: Ronald I. Frank, Matthew Laplaca, Thomas Kemper, Tom Tran, Steve Strobel
  • Patent number: 7424996
    Abstract: A wire rope pre-failure indicating device that can be installed at any location along a length of conventional wire rope of the character used in many industrial applications. The indicating device reliably functions to provide a pre-failure warning that the wire rope has been loaded beyond a specified magnitude. The indicating device also provides a pre-failure warning that the swaged fittings, which interconnect the indicator to the wire rope, have undesirably slipped.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 29, 2006
    Date of Patent: September 16, 2008
    Inventors: Stuart Larsen, William Turnbull
  • Patent number: 7421910
    Abstract: The invention provides increased structural monitoring systems that have sensitive continuous coaxial cable sensors. A preferred embodiment sensor cable of the invention includes an inner conductor, a dielectric jacket, and an outer conductor that is configured to passively deform responsively to strain in an associated structure. The deformation can be aided by the physical structure of the dielectric jacket, the outer conductor, or a combination of both. The deformation translates strain into a measurable change in a reflection coefficient associated with the outer conductor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 6, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 9, 2008
    Assignee: The Curators of the university of Missouri
    Inventors: Genda Chen, James L. Drewniak, Huimin Mu, David Pommerenke
  • Publication number: 20080190217
    Abstract: The invention concerns a system for detecting a rupture inside a portion (6; 12; 13; 15) at least of one structure, delimited by a first (7; 16) and a second (7; 17) reference points of the structure, said portion having a predetermined stiffness in the absence of rupture and being subjected to a tensile or compressive stress (F). The method includes the following steps: detecting at least one length variation inside the portion of the structure, in response to a variation (?F) of the tensile or compressive stress applied to said portion; deducing from the detected variation length, the existence or not of a rupture inside said portion of the structure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 15, 2006
    Publication date: August 14, 2008
    Applicant: Freyssinet
    Inventors: Eric Laurent, Bernard Basile
  • Patent number: 7370538
    Abstract: A method for determining the thickness of a layer of insulation comprises the steps of: contacting a top surface of a portion of the layer of insulation, compressing the portion of the layer of insulation until a predetermined compressive load is achieved, measuring a distance through which the top surface is moved during the compressing step, and determining the thickness of the layer of insulation based on the measured distance. Apparatus is provided for performing the method.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 8, 2005
    Date of Patent: May 13, 2008
    Assignee: CertainTeed Corporation
    Inventors: Michael D. Suda, Jeffrey R. Sacks
  • Patent number: 7360438
    Abstract: A load cell apparatus and method for forming the same. A load cell apparatus is configured to include a load cell housing and a modular strain gage element that is modularly assembled into the load cell housing. The load cell housing and the modular strain gage element together form a load cell apparatus for use in electronic force sensor applications. The modular strain gage element can be configured from an Advanced Thick Film (ATF) compatible material and can be formed to include one or more contact ledges that allows for a low hysteresis and a proper boundary condition for loading either a tension state or a compression state.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 8, 2006
    Date of Patent: April 22, 2008
    Assignee: Honeywell International Inc.
    Inventor: Ronald J. Gaines
  • Patent number: 7322253
    Abstract: An attachment for a fishing rod to respond to tension on the fishing line. In one mode it responds to a lateral pull on the rod tip. In another mode it responds to an axial pull on the line. It enables accurate adjustment of the drag, and can indicate when the tension on the line is in a safe or risky range relative to the rated stress of the line.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 7, 2005
    Date of Patent: January 29, 2008
    Inventor: Henry Steven Owens
  • Patent number: 7313975
    Abstract: An apparatus for measuring tension in guy wire systems wherein the lower end of the guy wire has a thimble adjoined by a connection pin to a yoke or clevis of a turnbuckle shackle bolt connected to an earth anchor. A block assembly is removably received beneath the clevis and a thimble-engaging jaw assembly is removably received on the guy wire above the clevis. The block assembly and jaw assembly are connected at one end by a threaded rod assembly that includes a strain sensor connected with an indicator device, and by a threaded rod at their opposed end. The jaw assembly is drawn downward by adjusting nuts on the threaded rods beneath the block assembly to engage the thimble and move it downward transferring the tension to the threaded rod and threaded rod assembly which is sensed by the strain sensor and indicated by the indicator device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 13, 2006
    Date of Patent: January 1, 2008
    Inventor: Romel Scorteanu
  • Patent number: 7263906
    Abstract: A seat belt tension sensor for measuring the amount of tension in a vehicle seat belt. The seat belt tension sensor has a housing and an anchor plate. A lever is mounted in the housing. The lever holds a magnet. A sensor is mounted to the housing. The sensor generates an electrical signal in response to relative movement between the magnet and the sensor. The electrical signal changes in proportion to the amount of tension on the seat belt. A spring is mounted in association with the housing and the anchor plate. The spring biases the housing from the anchor plate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 2, 2006
    Date of Patent: September 4, 2007
    Assignee: CTS Corporation
    Inventors: Murray Kaijala, Joseph Kip Bahr, Michael Wills
  • Patent number: 7263895
    Abstract: A fluid pressure sensor (1) for measuring the pressure of a fluid comprises a diaphragm portion (12) which is a strain generating body, a silicon oxide film (21) as an insulating film, and a strain gauge (20) made of crystalline silicon, and austenitic precipitation hardening type Fe—Ni heat-resisting steel excellent in mechanical strength and corrosion resistance is used for the diaphragm portion (12). The silicon oxide film (21) is formed with the internal stress thereof adjusted to the range from ?150 to 130 MPa. With this feature, the fluid pressure sensor (1) ensures high precision and reliability, and may be used even for measurement of a highly corrosive fluid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 15, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 4, 2007
    Assignee: Nagano Keiki Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Hiroshi Nagasaka, Takeshi Abe, Yoshikazu Kaneko
  • Patent number: 7233239
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for detecting an improperly installed auxiliary child seat of the type that is secured in a motor vehicle by the seatbelt, and providing an alert to a vehicle operator in the case of improper installation. A seat occupancy sensor, a seatbelt buckle condition sensor, and a seatbelt tension sensor provides electrical signals to a child seat detection module, which determines that an improper installation condition exists if the auxiliary child seat is present and the seatbelt buckle is unfastened. The child seat detection module further determines an improper installation condition if the auxiliary child seat is present, the seatbelt buckle is fastened, and the seatbelt tautness is not within an acceptable range. If an improper installation condition is detected, the child seat detection module triggers an alerting device, such as a warning light on the instrument panel or audible chime.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 4, 2003
    Date of Patent: June 19, 2007
    Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: Janak Chitalia, Joseph Brown, Chris Bujak
  • Patent number: 7210358
    Abstract: A force sensor assembly includes a force sensor, a first support member, a threaded portion, an opening made in the first support member, a nut, a restricting member and a spacer. The nut is screwed onto the threaded portion which is inserted through the opening. The restricting member is provided between the force sensor and the nut. The spacer, which is provided between the force sensor and the nut, is deformable in a direction of its thickness. The shape of the spacer is adapted to avoid interference with the restricting member. Before the nut is tightened onto the threaded portion, a summation of thickness for the first support member and the spacer is adapted to be not less than a height of the restricting member. The nut is tightened up with a predetermined fastening torque until the spacer deforms so that the nut strikes the restricting member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 1, 2005
    Date of Patent: May 1, 2007
    Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Tatsuya Yamazaki
  • Patent number: 7210361
    Abstract: A device for measuring the tightness of a transmission belt comprises a hilt, an insertion tube, a frame, a retaining piece and an engaging piece. The hilt is provided with a transverse handle, a sleeve and a retractable axle having a section of a screw thread. The insertion tube, connected to the retractable axle by screwing has an inner passage with an upper screw-thread section and a lower screw-thread section. The insertion tube further includes surface graduations for inspection. The frame has a central through hole and two belt-passing slots respectively on two side arms thereof said frame. The retaining piece is connected to the bottom of the frame. The engaging piece is attached to the bottom terminal of the retractable axle. Thereby, a belt will be inserted through the belt-passing slots of the frame and brought into contact with the engaging piece.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 26, 2005
    Date of Patent: May 1, 2007
    Inventor: Hsin Fa Kang
  • Patent number: 7162932
    Abstract: In a method for determining the radial modulus of elasticity of paper or a corresponding web-like material that can be reeled or wound on a reel, the connection between the force and deflection of a material arranged in layers is measured. The measurements of force and deflection necessary for calculating the radial modulus of elasticity are performed on a reel of paper or corresponding material outside the reeling or winding position by loading the reel with a press member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 22, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 16, 2007
    Assignee: Metso Paper, Inc.
    Inventor: Marko Jorkama
  • Patent number: 7126462
    Abstract: A tool for measuring force associated with engaging an anchorage of a child restraint anchorage system of a motor vehicle. The tool includes a force measuring device, an engagement arm having a slot, and a guide mechanism. The engagement arm transmits force to the measuring device when the anchorage is seated within the slot.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 18, 2004
    Date of Patent: October 24, 2006
    Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: Kurt Schleif, Robert Michel
  • Patent number: 7089771
    Abstract: In a method and a strip treatment installation, in particular a strip rolling mill train or a strip rolling stand, to avoid strip stickers, as the material is being wound up the distribution of the radial pressure exerted by the strip on the coiler drum or a winding reel is measured over the strip width, then the measured values are used to produce a reproduction of the actual local stress distribution in the strip, and this reproduction is used as a template for a set curve for controlling the strip tensile stress distribution, on the basis of which actuators of the strip treatment installation are adjusted with a view to achieving a uniform compressive stress distribution.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 11, 2002
    Date of Patent: August 15, 2006
    Assignee: BFI VDeh—Institut fur angewandte Forschung GmbH
    Inventors: Gert Mucke, Paul-Dieter Putz, Eberhard Neuschutz
  • Patent number: 7073399
    Abstract: The invention relates to a yarn processing system, comprising a yarn feeder (F), a textile machine (M), at least one controlled yarn brake (B) and a tensiometer, which senses the yarn downstream of said yarn brake, for at least measuring the yarn tension (g). According to said invention, the tensiometer (T) is permanently arranged within the yarn path, can be adjusted between a passive position (I) and at least one deflection position (II, III) and can be readjusted from said detection position (II, III) to the passive position (I) after a number of weft cycles, which number suffices to represent at least the proper adjustment of a yarn tension target profile.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 25, 2002
    Date of Patent: July 11, 2006
    Assignee: Iropa AG
    Inventor: Paer Josefsson
  • Publication number: 20060086197
    Abstract: The invention provides increased structural monitoring systems that have sensitive continuous coaxial cable sensors. A preferred embodiment sensor cable of the invention includes an inner conductor, a dielectric jacket, and an outer conductor that is configured to passively deform responsively to strain in an associated structure. The deformation can be aided by the physical structure of the dielectric jacket, the outer conductor, or a combination of both. The deformation translates strain into a measurable change in a reflection coefficient associated with the outer conductor.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 6, 2005
    Publication date: April 27, 2006
    Inventors: Genda Chen, James Drewniak, Huimin Mu, David Pommerenke
  • Patent number: 7024947
    Abstract: A detection sensor includes a detector unit which is provided on an insulating board at a first side of the board, a circuit component which is provided on the board at a second side of the board and which processes a signal detected by the detector unit, and a wiring unit which penetrates through the board in the thickness direction of the board and connects the detector unit and the circuit component.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 28, 2003
    Date of Patent: April 11, 2006
    Assignee: Alps Electric Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Katsuyuki Ishiguro, Yasuichi Ono, Kazuo Hasegawa, Daiichi Hashimoto
  • Patent number: 7024295
    Abstract: A method and system for determining weight and/or position of a vehicle seat occupant to be used for controlling the reaction of a safety restraint system. A plurality of spaced weight sensors are disposed between a seating surface and seat mounting surface to provide output signals indicative of an applied weight on each sensor. The sensors are spaced such that the sensors measure the weight applied to a seat back and the seating surface. A controller calculates the weight and/or position of the seat occupant in response to the output signals of the sensors. The controller sends the weight and position of the seat occupant to the safety restraint system to be used to tailor or suppress the reaction of the safety restraint system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 29, 2005
    Date of Patent: April 4, 2006
    Assignee: Siemens VDO Automotive Corporation
    Inventors: Ralf Oestreicher, Michelle Homann, Harold Lichtinger, Scott Morell, Dan Reich
  • Publication number: 20060065062
    Abstract: A connecting structure for connecting a load measurement device and a load input portion includes an oscillating portion provided at the load measurement device and oscillated upon receipt of a load from an object to be measured, the oscillating portion being applied with the load from the load input portion, a hole portion provided at one of the oscillating portion and the load input portion, a shaft portion provided at the other of the oscillating portion and the load input portion to be rotatably inserted into the hole portion, and a convex surface formed on at least one of an outer surface of the shaft portion and an inner surface of the hole portion to form a universal joint structure between the oscillating portion and the load input portion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 23, 2005
    Publication date: March 30, 2006
    Inventors: Toshiro Maeda, Takashi Okada
  • Publication number: 20060037389
    Abstract: In a method for determining the radial modulus of elasticity of paper or a corresponding web-like material that can be reeled or wound on a reel, the connection between the force and deflection of a material arranged in layers is measured. The measurements of force and deflection necessary for calculating the radial modulus of elasticity are performed on a reel of paper or corresponding material outside the reeling or winding position by loading the reel with a press member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 22, 2003
    Publication date: February 23, 2006
    Inventor: Marko Jorkama
  • Patent number: 6952975
    Abstract: A seat occupant sensor for use in automotive occupant restraint systems. The sensor has a sensing plate cantilevered by a stationary part installed on a vehicle body to be bent upon application of a weight load of an occupant on a seat. The sensor is equipped with a stopper mechanism which works to stop the sensing plate from bending out of a predetermined range in which the sensing plate is allowed to undergo a maximum bending stress within a bending stress limit of the sensing plate, thereby avoiding undesirable deflection or fracture of the sensing plate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 30, 2004
    Date of Patent: October 11, 2005
    Assignee: Denso Corporation
    Inventors: Eiichi Nishio, Akinori Jitsui, Hajime Nakagawa
  • Patent number: 6903286
    Abstract: The present invention is a child seat detecting apparatus for detecting the presence of a child seat in a vehicle. The child seat detecting apparatus is a tension sensing device that is attached to a vehicle seat. The tension sensing device includes a bracket that is mounted to the vehicle seat. A moveable bar is retained by the bracket. The moveable bar is attached to the child seat. A sensor is mounted between the bracket and the moveable bar. The sensor is adapted to provide an electrical signal that is indicative of a magnitude of tension on the moveable bar. A spring is located between the bracket and the moveable bar. The spring biases the moveable bar away from the bracket.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 27, 2003
    Date of Patent: June 7, 2005
    Assignee: CTS Corporation
    Inventors: Murray Kaijala, Patrick B. Blakesley, Dale Teeters
  • Patent number: 6851167
    Abstract: A spin-pull blind insert tool utilizes a control system that generates a stop signal based on the relationship between the force values and the motion values derived from the action of the tool mandrel. The improved control system utilizes the shape of the force-deformation curve and not just a given pre-set force value or pull distance. Hence, the control system of the present invention does not require any set-up for changes in panel thickness unless the mandrel is also changed to install a different thread size. This control system develops a force-deformation curve as the fastener is being installed. The stop signal is generated when a pre-set deformation point has been exceeded and the shape of the force curve can be characterized by either of two types. For either type, an algorithm is followed which establishes an optimum stopping point for the installation tool regardless of the panel thickness into which the blind rivet is being installed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 9, 2004
    Date of Patent: February 8, 2005
    Assignee: PEM Management, Inc.
    Inventors: Gary Harlow, Ronald S. Dise
  • Patent number: 6848320
    Abstract: A mechanical deformation amount sensor includes a sensor structure which is formed by a semiconductor substrate or an insulating substrate and integrally includes a deformation portion deformable, when a physical quantity to be detected is applied to the sensor structure, due to the physical quantity and a support portion for supporting the deformation portion, a carbon nanotube resistance element which is provided on the deformation portion so as to be mechanically deformed in response to deformation of the deformation portion and a wiring pattern which is formed in a pattern on the sensor structure so as to be connected to the carbon nanotube resistance element. By applying a voltage to the carbon nanotube resistance element via the wiring pattern, a change of electrical conductivity of the carbon nanotube resistance element upon mechanical deformation of the carbon nanotube resistance element is fetched as an electrical signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 29, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 1, 2005
    Assignee: Matsushita Electric Works, Ltd.
    Inventors: Hisakazu Miyajima, Masao Arakawa, Akira Yabuta, Jun Sakai