Testing By Imparting Motion Patents (Class 73/865.3)
-
Patent number: 7775082Abstract: A test fixture for rollover crash testing of a test vehicle onto a moving surface employs a cradle to support and rotate the test vehicle. A vertical support structure to position and releasably holds the cradle. A moving sled having a contact surface and is carried by a guide extending beneath the structure and the cradle fixture. The cradle is rotated and released from the structure responsive to a sensor for contact within a drop impact zone on the contact surface of the moving sled. Vertical motion of the cradle is then arrested to prevent further damage to the test vehicle or the test structure.Type: GrantFiled: June 10, 2008Date of Patent: August 17, 2010Assignee: Safety Testing International, Inc.Inventors: Donald Friedman, Acen Jordan
-
Patent number: 7768381Abstract: A collision detection apparatus for a vehicle having a vehicle bumper, which includes a bumper reinforcement includes a chamber member, a pressure sensor, and a collision detecting device. The chamber member is provided inside the vehicle bumper at a front surface of the bumper reinforcement. The pressure sensor is configured to sense change of pressure in the chamber space. The chamber member includes a deformable part and a non-deformable part, each of which extends in a vehicle width direction. The deformable part is compressed to be deformed between the collision object and the bumper reinforcement in a case, where the collision object collides with the vehicle bumper. The non-deformable part is limited from being compressed to be deformed.Type: GrantFiled: June 17, 2008Date of Patent: August 3, 2010Assignee: Denso CorporationInventors: Tetsuya Takafuji, Shuji Nakamura
-
Patent number: 7748250Abstract: A three-axial acceleration sensor inspection device is provided for inspecting a three-axial acceleration sensor that detects acceleration components in three axes crossing perpendicularly with each other and outputs acceleration component signals. The three-axial acceleration sensor inspection device includes a test plate for mounting the three-axial acceleration sensor thereon; a supporting plate for supporting and rotating the test plate; a main rotational shaft for rotating the supporting plate. The supporting plate is arranged radially around the main rotational shaft along a radius direction of the main rotational shaft, and is disposed at each of at least four locations with an equal angular interval along a circumferential direction of the main rotational shaft.Type: GrantFiled: May 31, 2007Date of Patent: July 6, 2010Assignee: Oki Semiconductor Co., Ltd.Inventor: Isao Kamiya
-
Patent number: 7743676Abstract: A key testing apparatus (100) is provided. The key testing apparatus includes a base (11) and an actuator (12). The actuator includes a testing member (17) and a mounting member (18). The mounting member includes at least one base board (181) fixed to the base, a lower board (182), a mounting board (183), and a mounting sheet (185). The lower board is adjustably attached to the base board. The mounting board is adjustably attached to the lower board. The mounting sheet is adjustably attached to the mounting board. The clamping device includes a base desk (131), a clamping platform (132), at least one first clamping board (133) and second clamping board (134). The base desk is adjustably attached to the base. The clamping platform, at least one first clamping board, and at least one second clamping board are adjustably attached to the base desk.Type: GrantFiled: November 27, 2007Date of Patent: June 29, 2010Assignees: Shenzhen Futaihong Precision Industry Co., Ltd., FIH (Hong Kong) LimitedInventors: Lei Li, Ping Chen, Zhi Cheng, Jian-Gui Wu, Hong-Yan Li, Xue-Liang Zhai, Chang-Fa Sun, Yong-Zhi Tao
-
Patent number: 7661296Abstract: A method and apparatus for measuring isotherms and determining solid state phase changes comprising a humidity generator having a temperature controlled internal chamber, a microbalance mounted externally to the internal chamber and a near infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) probe or Raman spectrometer probe mounted internally in the internal chamber, such that the mass of a sample suspended within the chamber and its solid state phase can be determined without disturbing the controlled environment surrounding the sample. The humidity generator includes means for controlling humidity and temperature within the internal chamber, an access port that extends into the internal chamber. The balance is situated near the port such that the balance mechanism extends within the internal chamber. The balance mechanism utilizes a means for holding a sample within the chamber such that the mass of the sample can be determined as it equilibrates to the temperature and relative humidity maintained within the internal cavity.Type: GrantFiled: October 31, 2007Date of Patent: February 16, 2010Assignee: Abbott LaboratoriesInventor: Walter Dziki
-
Patent number: 7644504Abstract: A fixture for positioning an ATD relative to a vehicle includes a housing attached to the vehicle having a first end and a second end. A locator is mounted on the housing and is movable along the housing between the first end and the second end to identify a position of the ATD relative to the housing. A target is disposed on the ATD and is spaced apart from the housing for alignment with the locator. A first measurement device outputs an angle of the housing that identifies an angular position of the target relative to a plane extending through the first end of the housing.Type: GrantFiled: May 29, 2008Date of Patent: January 12, 2010Assignee: Chrysler Group LLCInventors: Artur Verdiyan, Richard M. Hackman, Craig G. Hysong, Kristy Svatek-Whitson, Theresa L. Reilly
-
Patent number: 7610821Abstract: A side impact simulator includes a primary sled connected to an actuator. A platform for supporting a vehicle seat and crash test dummy is slidably supported on the primary sled. A support is mounted to the platform, with a plurality of thrust rods slidably mounted therein. The primary sled includes a strike plate for striking an end of the thrust rods.Type: GrantFiled: July 19, 2007Date of Patent: November 3, 2009Assignee: Toyoda Gosei Co., Ltd.Inventor: Reinhold S. Klein
-
Patent number: 7597017Abstract: The present invention discloses locomotion simulator comprising a base having a surface movable along a base axis, a post mounted to the base a pelvic structure and a hip-thigh mechanism wherein coordinated displacement of the pelvic structure and pivoting of the thigh segment assembly simulates patterns of locomotion. The pelvic structure includes a first support movably mounted to the post, the first support allowing a displacement of the pelvic structure along a first pelvic axis generally perpendicular to the base axis and a second support movably mounted to the first support, the second support allowing a displacement of the pelvic structure along a second pelvic axis generally parallel to the base axis.Type: GrantFiled: July 20, 2007Date of Patent: October 6, 2009Assignee: Victhom Human Bionics, Inc.Inventors: Stephane Bedard, Pierre Fecteau, Pierre-Olivier Roy
-
Patent number: 7543475Abstract: A device for simulating a collision of a motor vehicle by a laterally hitting impactor. The device comprises a seat carriage (3) which can be displaced in the transversal direction of the vehicle and on which a seat (5) is mounted, a lateral part carriage (10) on which a lateral part (13) of a motor vehicle body is mounted, and the impactor (20) that acts upon the lateral part (13) and is provided with an acceleration mechanism (21). The seat carriage (3) and the lateral part carriage (10) can be displaced independently of each other. In order to create a testing device which dispenses with the need for expensive and time-consuming preliminary tests to determine the settings for the tests, the impactor (20) is equipped with an acceleration mechanism (21) which can perform both positively and negatively accelerated movements in a controlled manner while an additional impactor (30) is provided that acts upon the seat carriage (3).Type: GrantFiled: June 9, 2005Date of Patent: June 9, 2009Assignee: Magna Steyr Fahrzeugtechnik AG & Co. KGInventors: Andreas Rieser, Arno Eichberger, Steffan Hermann
-
Publication number: 20090107263Abstract: A pendulum-type measuring device is disclosed that includes a steel ball-type universal joining mechanism for joining a pendulum with a base, and a laser measuring assembly mounted on the pendulum wherein a swing of the pendulum can be expressed as a first component on a first plane and a second component on a second plane perpendicular to the first plane.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 26, 2007Publication date: April 30, 2009Inventor: NEN-TSUA LI
-
Patent number: 7516047Abstract: A method for use in a system for diagnosing the causes of manufacturing defects involves process characterization. A set of forms is identified for a workpiece and for a piece of manufacturing equipment that acts upon the workpiece. The forms for the workpiece are preferably a hierarchic set of geometric forms. Each such geometric form corresponds to an aspect of the action of the manufacturing equipment upon the workpiece. A plurality of measurements is made on a defective workpiece following the hierarchical order of forms. The measurements are compared to a reference datum, and a deviation from the datum is computed. If the deviation exceeds a preselected threshold, an alert condition results, attributable to the action of the manufacturing equipment. Targeted adjustment corresponding to the action that caused the defect can then be made to the equipment.Type: GrantFiled: October 23, 2006Date of Patent: April 7, 2009Assignee: Red X Holdings, LLCInventor: John R. Allen
-
Publication number: 20090084203Abstract: A rotating machine includes a receiving member having a base wall. A first cylinder module disposed above the receiving member includes a first cylinder body. Grappling hooks fixedly connecting with the first cylinder module are disposed below the first cylinder body. A second cylinder module mounted on a top surface of the base wall includes a second cylinder body. A rotating module includes a rotatable shaft rotationally settled in the base wall. A top end of the rotatable shaft engages with a salver below the grappling hooks. A gear wheel is located around the rotatable shaft and below the salver. A rack meshing with the gear wheel connects with the second cylinder body, and controlling switches are used for starting the first cylinder module and the second cylinder module.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 27, 2007Publication date: April 2, 2009Inventors: Xue-jin Li, Wei Wang, Ai-jun Yan
-
Publication number: 20090063083Abstract: In a method of estimating one of mechanical supporting states of a housing for an electronic apparatus, a drive signal is supplied to an oscillation device from which first oscillation is applied to the housing. A sensor detects a second oscillation transferred through the housing in response to the first oscillation to generate an oscillation signal, and a measurement response characteristic is obtained based on the drive signal and the oscillation signal, and is compared with reference response characteristics which are correlated with the mechanical supporting states, respectively, to estimate one of the mechanical supporting states of the housing.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 25, 2008Publication date: March 5, 2009Inventors: Minoru Mukai, Takahiro Omori, Daisuke Yamamoto
-
Publication number: 20090049935Abstract: It is intended to provide a milnacipran formulation which is more stable than a conventionally known milnacipran formulation, and a method of stabilizing a milnacipran formulation. The object could be achieved by using a milnacipran-containing composition in which milnacipran or a salt thereof is allowed to exist in a porous carrier, packing a powder containing milnacipran or a salt thereof in an HPMC capsule, or combining an additive which does not cause an interaction with milnacipran with time.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 8, 2006Publication date: February 26, 2009Applicant: Pierre Fabre MedicamentInventors: Kazumi Suzuki, Hitoshi Yamada
-
Patent number: 7490525Abstract: A testing device for evaluating performance of closure of a vehicle door has a speed calculating part for calculating a speed of the door during the motion of the door relative to the main body of a vehicle, an analyzing part for analyzing behavior of the door by processing the speed changing in consequence of the closing motion of the door, and a judging part for judging the state of closure of the door based on the result of analysis obtained by the analyzing part.Type: GrantFiled: November 30, 2005Date of Patent: February 17, 2009Assignee: Nissan Motor Co., Ltd.Inventors: Tsutomu Tanaka, Masahiro Yamada
-
Patent number: 7487051Abstract: The present invention relates to a method of evaluating the fracture toughness of a material using the continuous indentation technique. In the method of this invention, the stress coefficient, strain hardening modulus and yield stress of the material are determined using the continuous indentation technique and, thereafter, the reduced elastic modulus (Er) of the material is calculated. The effective elastic modulus and the initial elastic modulus are calculated and, thereafter, the damage parameter is calculated using the void volume fraction. The critical elastic modulus and the characteristic fracture initiation point of the indentation depth are determined using the damage parameter and, thereafter, the fracture toughness of the material is evaluated. The present invention is advantageous in that the fracture toughness of a brittle material can be evaluated precisely using a nondestructive evaluation technique.Type: GrantFiled: September 14, 2005Date of Patent: February 3, 2009Assignee: Frontics, Inc.Inventors: Kwang-Ho Kim, Jung-Suk Lee, Yang-Won Seo, Yeol Choi
-
Patent number: 7448251Abstract: A method for preparing a motor vehicle for a crash test is disclosed. The method subjects the motor vehicle to a sequence of different tests and provides a system of staged modifications that can be made to help the motor vehicle pass the current test without invalidating test results obtained earlier in the sequence. In some cases, this method can be used to confirm that a particular motor vehicle qualifies for a certain crash test routine.Type: GrantFiled: January 5, 2006Date of Patent: November 11, 2008Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.Inventor: Ryan Miller
-
Publication number: 20080173107Abstract: A sensor assembly for impact detection for use in a motor vehicle including a housing, a pressure transducer sensitive to pressure, and an accelerometer sensitive to acceleration. The pressure transducer and the accelerometer are each attached to the housing and the housing is attached to a location in the vehicle conducive to measuring pressure and acceleration signals corresponding to an impact event. The sensor assembly is configured to provide two independent signals (one for pressure and one for acceleration) to a control unit. The control unit compares both signals to confirm occurrence of the impact event in order to deploy automatic safety devices to protect vehicle occupants while avoiding inadvertent deployment of the safety devices.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 19, 2007Publication date: July 24, 2008Inventors: Marc Leach, Jeremy Tavares, Colm Boran
-
Patent number: 7401528Abstract: An apparatus for measuring stalk strength and/or root strength of a plant is provided. In accordance with various embodiments, the apparatus includes a conveyer operably connected to a motor for circulatorily driving the conveyer around at least one guide device. At least one pulling finger is coupled to the conveyer. Each pulling finger is structured such that, when the apparatus is positioned adjacent the plant stalk and the conveyor is driven around the guide device, each pulling finger will contact and pull a plant stalk as each pulling finger travels around the guide device. The apparatus additionally includes a force sensor for measuring resistive force encountered by the motor as each pulling finger pulls the plant stalk.Type: GrantFiled: June 21, 2007Date of Patent: July 22, 2008Assignee: Monsanto Technology LLCInventors: Kevin L. Deppermann, Mike Bohnert, Jason Bull, Jeremy Conry, Kevin Cook, Sam Eathington, Travis Frey, Jeff Hartsook, Bruce Schnicker, Jeremy Nefzger
-
Publication number: 20080121014Abstract: A sled carriage is configured to move in a direction of an axis and a track is attached with the sled carriage. A platform is attached with the track and a sled buck is attached with the platform. Upon acceleration of the sled carriage, the sled buck and platform move relative to the sled carriage.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 1, 2006Publication date: May 29, 2008Applicant: FORD MOTOR COMPANYInventors: Weigang Chen, Michael Stiyer, Baohua Xiao, Robert MacFarland, Matthew Maltarich
-
Patent number: 7373801Abstract: A test fixture for rollover crash testing of a test vehicle onto a moving surface employs a cradle to support and rotate the test vehicle. A vertical support structure to positions and releasably holds the cradle. A moving sled having a contact surface is carried by a guide extending beneath the structure and the cradle fixture. The cradle is rotated and released from the structure responsive to a sensor for contact within a drop impact zone on the contact surface of the moving sled. Vertical motion of the cradle is then arrested to prevent further damage to the test vehicle or the test structure.Type: GrantFiled: April 28, 2006Date of Patent: May 20, 2008Assignee: Safety Testing Institute, Inc.Inventors: Donald Friedman, Acen Jordan
-
Publication number: 20080098831Abstract: A seating surrogate suitable for use in seat testing operations, such as but not limited to those associated with vehicle seat testing and non-vehicle seat testing. The surrogate may include a back form and a buttock form to mimic a human back and buttock. The forms may be operable connected to be simulate actual human interaction with a tested seat.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 31, 2006Publication date: May 1, 2008Applicant: LEAR CORPORATIONInventors: Peter Didyk, Bill A. Hammond
-
Publication number: 20080034902Abstract: A sled carriage is configured to move in a direction of an axis. A platform is attached with the sled carriage and a sled buck is attached with the platform. Upon acceleration of the sled carriage, the sled buck and platform move relative to the sled carriage.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 1, 2006Publication date: February 14, 2008Applicant: FORD MOTOR COMPANYInventors: Weigang Chen, Baohua Xiao, James Cheng, Krishnakanth Aekbote, Michael Stiyer
-
Patent number: 7325453Abstract: An activity monitor is provided that can be cheaper and require lower power than existing activity monitors. A single output channel from a plurality of motion sensors is provided and monitored intermittently.Type: GrantFiled: November 21, 2003Date of Patent: February 5, 2008Assignee: Koninklijke Philips Electronics, N.V.Inventors: Joannes Gregorius Bremer, Paraskevas Dunias, Gillian Antoinette Mimnagh-Kelleher, Adrianus Petrus Johanna Maria Rommers, Wilhelmus Lambertus Marinus Cornelius Verhoeven
-
Publication number: 20080016970Abstract: A side impact simulator includes a primary sled connected to an actuator. A platform for supporting a vehicle seat and crash test dummy is slidably supported on the primary sled. A support is mounted to the platform, with a plurality of thrust rods slidably mounted therein. The primary sled includes a strike plate for striking an end of the thrust rods.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 19, 2007Publication date: January 24, 2008Inventor: Reinhold S. Klein
-
Publication number: 20080000284Abstract: The systems and methods of the invention provide for sample holders for centrifuges that include a channel structure having a sample channel and an overflow channel. The sample channel and the overflow channel are configured such that any excess sample flows into the overflow channel thereby maintaining a constant sample level in the sample channel. In other aspects, the invention provides for centrifuges comprising sample holders having a plurality of channel structures. In still other aspects, the invention provides for methods of using the sample holder and methods for detecting species in a sample using luminescence based measurement techniques.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 30, 2006Publication date: January 3, 2008Inventors: Thomas M. Laue, J. Brett Austin
-
Publication number: 20070234828Abstract: A roller and a four way roller assembly is disclosed. The roller includes an axle, a wheel, and at least a flexible connecting portion. The flexible portion connects to the axle and the wheel, thereby the axle moves in the wheel. The four way roller assembly includes a base, a roller container and a roller. The roller container is movably installed on the base. The roller rotates in the roller container via the axle. The axle presses a first sensor on the base.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 20, 2007Publication date: October 11, 2007Applicant: DARFON ELECTRONICS CORP.Inventors: Chun-Chung Huang, Zhan-Ling Liu
-
Patent number: 7267018Abstract: A steering lock system includes at least an ignition switch and a locking mechanism capable of inhibiting the turning of a steering shaft. In a state in which the steering lock system is retained by a retaining means on a support table, a movable table is moved toward the support table, a turnable shaft which includes a key chuck means retaining a key at its tip end is rotatably driven by a driving means, thereby rotatably driving a rotor of the steering lock system. By examining the change in the switching mode of the ignition switch in accordance with the turning of the rotor by a switch signal checking means and examining the operational state of the locking mechanism by a locking operation examining means, the inspection can be conducted continuously and automatically on the operation of at least the ignition switch and the locking mechanism of the steering lock system.Type: GrantFiled: July 6, 2005Date of Patent: September 11, 2007Assignee: Kabushiki Kaisha Honda LockInventor: Mitsuhiro Kai
-
Publication number: 20070169572Abstract: An orthopedic simulator is provided with a slide table assembly that is configurable to be selectively operable in a plurality of operational modes. The modes may include a free-floating mode, a positive axis lock mode, and a shear plane loading mode.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 5, 2007Publication date: July 26, 2007Inventors: Bradley D. Schulz, Paul J. Leska, Dennis J. Willis, Harold F. Fahrendorff
-
Patent number: 7237445Abstract: A test fixture facilitates the laboratory testing of windshield wiper blades for vehicles. The test fixture includes a base frame on which are mounted a number of windshield wiper arms oriented generally parallel for engagement with a stainless steel test surface. Positionally adjustable supports are mounted on the base frame to configure the test surface by varying the curvature of the test surface, as well as the overall length thereof, to permit simulation of a large variety of automotive windshields for test purposes. The test fixture also includes a wiper arm mounting device that can be manipulated to vary the wiper arm load to the wiper blade on the test surface. Adjustments in the spring force exerted on the wiper blade allow variances in the application of a biasing force on the wiper blade in conjunction with changes in the attack angle.Type: GrantFiled: September 27, 2005Date of Patent: July 3, 2007Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLCInventor: Giovanni Perin
-
Patent number: 7219555Abstract: An apparatus and method for testing components of a joint replacement device in desired articulation relative to one another under a load, include: a first unit or step operable to impart undulating orientations of a first member of the joint replacement device; and a second unit or step operable to locate a second member of the joint replacement device proximate to the first member of the joint replacement device such that an articulation surface of the second member engages an articulation surface of the first member for movement in response to the undulating orientations of the first member, wherein at least one of: (i) the second unit is operable to automatically adjust the location of the second member of the joint replacement device in response to lateral forces exerted by the first member on the second member, and (ii) the apparatus and method include a third unit or step operable to impart rotational displacement to the first member of the joint replacement device such that the articulation surface ofType: GrantFiled: April 28, 2005Date of Patent: May 22, 2007Inventor: William R. Salvesen
-
Patent number: 7216557Abstract: A method and apparatus (40) for testing an occupant position sensing system (12) of a vehicle (10) includes a motor (42) having a stationary portion (44) and a movable portion (46). A test object (90) is fixed relative to the movable portion (46) of the motor (42). A motor position sensor (64) senses a position of the movable portion (46) of the motor (42) relative to the stationary portion (44) and for providing a motor position signal indicative thereof. Motor drive electronics (58) are responsive to the motor position signal for controlling the motor (42) for moving the test object (90). A data recorder (80) is adapted to receive and record data from the occupant position sensing system (12) and is adapted to receive and record the motor position signal provided by the motor position sensor (64).Type: GrantFiled: September 1, 2004Date of Patent: May 15, 2007Assignees: TRW Vehicle Safety Systems Inc., TRW Automotive U.S. LLCInventors: Raymond J. David, Jon K. Wallace, Charles E. Steffens, Jr.
-
Patent number: 7204145Abstract: An activity monitor is provided that corrects for the effects of motion external to the entity being monitored. For example, the activity monitor can overcome the effects of vehicular travel.Type: GrantFiled: November 21, 2003Date of Patent: April 17, 2007Assignee: Koninklijke Philips Electronics, N.V.Inventors: Carsten Heinks, Peter Tjin Sjoe Kong Tsang
-
Patent number: 7171864Abstract: The present invention concerns a method for controlling writing instruments, in particular ball-point pens, on paper, which consists in guiding the writing instrument relative to the paper plane in a repeated movement and displacing the paper in forward direction. The movement are thus coordinated so that the line obtained forms a meandering pattern which consists in rectilinear trajectories. The invention also concerns the device for implementing said method.Type: GrantFiled: June 21, 2004Date of Patent: February 6, 2007Assignee: Societe BICInventors: David Schmitz, legal representative, Anne Schmitz, legal representative, Friedrich Schachter, deceased
-
Patent number: 7146863Abstract: In a torsion angle measuring method and device for a magnetic-disk suspension, a datum surface of the suspension is fixed to a fixture under pressure, the fixture being provided with a smooth criterion surface having known torsion angles set for the suspension datum surface. A roll angle and a pitch angle of a slider loading surface of the suspension to the datum surface when the suspension is fixed to the fixture are measured.Type: GrantFiled: January 24, 2005Date of Patent: December 12, 2006Assignee: Fujitsu LimitedInventor: Toshikazu Furui
-
Patent number: 7017428Abstract: A test kit for a semiconductor package and a method for testing the semiconductor package using the same are provided. The test kit for a semiconductor package includes a pick-and-place tool for picking up and loading/unloading the semiconductor package, a head assembly having a package guider and a socket guider, and a socket which is positioned under the head assembly. The socket guider performs a pre-alignment function for a correct operation of the package guider, before the package guider starts operating. The package guider aligns the semiconductor package.Type: GrantFiled: December 4, 2003Date of Patent: March 28, 2006Assignee: Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.Inventors: Byoung-jun Min, Jeong-ho Bang, Hyun-seop Shim, Hyo-geun Chae
-
Patent number: 6983638Abstract: A test assembly for evaluating vehicle head restraints comprises a carriage adapted to be coupled to a drive member capable of moving the test assembly, a head restraint coupled to the carriage and a manikin assembly having a head portion and a neck portion with an upper and lower end. The head portion couples to the upper end of the neck portion and the manikin assembly couples to the carriage at the lower end of the neck assembly. The head restraint is positioned adjacent the manikin assembly so that movement of the drive member causes the head portion of the manikin assembly to contact the head restraint. The manikin assembly may further include a load cell and accelerometer for evaluating the effectiveness and performance of a particular head restraint design.Type: GrantFiled: March 18, 2004Date of Patent: January 10, 2006Assignee: Lear CorporationInventors: Nagarjun Yetukuri, Mladen Humer, Gerald S. Locke, Eric Veine
-
Patent number: 6888073Abstract: A substance mass measuring system is applied to a microgravitational rotating apparatus vibration control system to easily measure the mass of an object placed in an experimental box. Recess portions (10a, 10b) are provided in a casing (10). Both ends of a rotary shaft (30) are supported by bearings (11, 12) in the recess portions (10a, 10b). A lower end of the rotary shaft (30) is connected to a motor (13). Four arms (24 to 27) arranged horizontally in the direction of X and Y axes, are at their one ends fixed to the rotary shaft (30) and at the other ends fitted with experimental boxes (20 to 23). Experimental objects are placed in the boxes (20 to 23) and rotated for experiments in space. Vibration of the rotary shaft (30) and the boxes (20 to 23) is absorbed by the bearings (11, 12). Side plates (1a to 1d), acceleration sensors (2a to 2d) and distance sensors (3a to 3d) are arranged in the boxes (20 to 23).Type: GrantFiled: November 13, 2001Date of Patent: May 3, 2005Assignee: Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Ltd.Inventor: Shuichi Kawasaki
-
Publication number: 20040182182Abstract: The drop impact measuring system has i) a plurality of bimorph-type acceleration sensor containing a plurality of free vibrating sections each of which has individual draw-out electrodes; ii) a switch section for selecting output from the bimorph-type acceleration sensors; iii) an amplifying circuit for amplifying a signal applied via the switch section from the acceleration sensors; and iv) a logic circuit for logically evaluating the output from the amplifying circuit and controlling the switch section according to the result acquired from the logical evaluation.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 30, 2004Publication date: September 23, 2004Inventors: Kazunari Nishihara, Hirofumi Tajika, Koji Nomura, Motoyuki Toji
-
Patent number: 6792819Abstract: A method and system for analyzing the transfer of motion to a subject on a sleeping surface. A mattress is positioned on a frame, and a subject is positioned on the mattress. A sensor is placed in communication with the subject. The surface adjacent the subject is moved by means of a moving mass, and the sensor detects the motion of the subject. Motion transferred to the subject as a result of the mattress moving is measured and recorded.Type: GrantFiled: May 12, 2003Date of Patent: September 21, 2004Assignee: Dreamwell, Ltd.Inventors: Rick F. Gladney, James Martin Arrowood
-
Publication number: 20040099069Abstract: A vehicle is provided, including a vehicle body; at least one vehicle element pivotally mounted to the vehicle, the vehicle element configured to pivot through an angle not more than 360 degrees; and a measuring arrangement configured to measure an angular velocity of the at least one vehicle element.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 26, 2002Publication date: May 27, 2004Inventor: Larry Osentoski
-
Publication number: 20040003669Abstract: A method and system for analyzing the transfer of motion to a subject on a sleeping surface. A mattress is positioned on a frame, and a subject is positioned on the mattress. A sensor is placed in communication with the subject. The surface adjacent the subject is moved by means of a moving mass, and the sensor detects the motion of the subject. Motion transferred to the subject as a result of the mattress moving is measured and recorded.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 12, 2003Publication date: January 8, 2004Applicant: Dreamwell, Ltd.Inventors: Rick F. Gladney, James Martin Arrowood
-
Patent number: 6672177Abstract: A system and method for testing an airbag proximity suppression system that includes a positioning system that controls movement of an occupant model and toward a suppression zone. A proximity sensor provides a first output signal indicative of when the occupant model actually enters the suppression zone by monitoring movement of a position marker. The airbag suppression system, the device under test, provides a second output signal indicative of when the airbag suppression system detects that the occupant model has entered the suppression zone. The timing difference between the first and second output signals is indicative of a performance factor of the airing suppression system.Type: GrantFiled: April 27, 2001Date of Patent: January 6, 2004Assignee: Eaton CorporationInventors: Alan J. Hutchenreuther, Philip A. Derosier, Kathleen M. Krause
-
Patent number: 6648531Abstract: An apparatus and method of simultaneously pressing different keyboard keys mechanically. The apparatus includes a displacement mechanism that is held by a main carrier that may slide back and forth along an elevated track. The displacement mechanism holds a further track. Further carriers may slide back and forth to desired positions along the further track. Each further carrier holds a rod, whose position relative to the respective further carrier is adjustable. Each rod has an end that constitutes a pressing surface. The displacement mechanism includes a plunger that may be manually pressed against spring bias to lower the further track and thereby the further carriers and the further rods. By doing so, the pressing surfaces of the rods may press against keys of different keyboards that are in alignment beneath the pressing surfaces.Type: GrantFiled: June 11, 2002Date of Patent: November 18, 2003Assignee: Systemax, Inc.Inventor: Mark Goldberg
-
Publication number: 20030209095Abstract: A method of testing a run-flat tire component is provided. In one exemplary embodiment, the method includes positioning a run-flat component upon a wheel, accelerating the wheel to a predetermined speed, decelerating the wheel to a stop, and determining any rotation of the run-flat component relative to the wheel.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 7, 2002Publication date: November 13, 2003Inventors: Sebastien Drap, Francois Hottebart
-
Publication number: 20030183021Abstract: The invention relates to a method for the measurement of the fracture toughness of a coating or surface, in which method a hard stylus is drawn with an increasing normal force along the surface of an object so that the surface undergoes damage by fracture. Using an optical, acoustical or other technical method, the location of the first cracks on or near the scratch groove is measured, the frictional forces at the crack positions are measured, and, using these data, the fracture toughness of the coating or surface is calculated via a fracture mechanical analysis. The scratching of the surface using a hard stylus with a force increasing in a controlled manner can be implemented via a so-called scratch test known in prior art, by providing it with acoustic emission or equivalent detector measuring the location of appearance of the first crack, provided that it includes a force detector for continuous measurement of frictional force.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 26, 2003Publication date: October 2, 2003Inventor: Kenneth Holmberg
-
Patent number: 6622541Abstract: The invention presents a sled device for testing the rollover threshold of a vehicle. The sled has a carriage that is mounted on a track. The carriage can slide upon the track from a first track location. The carriage is configured so that an actual vehicle may be placed on the carriage. When a vehicle is on the carriage, the vehicle is positioned with one side of the vehicle positioned toward the first tract location and the second side of the vehicle positioned toward the second track location. The carriage is propelled from the first tract location to the second track location by an accelerator. As the carriage nears the second track location, a decelerator slows and arrests the movement of the carriage, thereby simulating an impulse potentially sufficient to cause the vehicle to roll.Type: GrantFiled: March 1, 2001Date of Patent: September 23, 2003Assignee: Autoliv ASP, Inc.Inventors: Douglas J. Stein, Michel P. Rossey, Analia U. Jarvis, Michael G. Davis, Jonas Bärgman
-
Patent number: 6609420Abstract: The invention features a modified catch tube component capable of performing the function of the conventional catch tube and the conventional MEM simultaneously. The catch tube will also feature a capability to accept modular units of mass for adjusting the available angular momentum (of the spinning catch tube) as well as to incrementally adjust inertial resistance for controlling post-impact translational motion. The safety and performance enhancements of the modified spinner are achieved by the above mentioned integration of the MEM with the catch tube. This invention will eliminate MEM free flight and prevent excessively soft, or excessively hard projectile impacts. Equipment such as rails and wheel sets are used to assure that the motion of the catch tube is constrained to translation and to rotation. The invention contrasts conventional spinners in that the motion of a conventional catch tube is limited to rotation only and the MEM to translation and rotation.Type: GrantFiled: April 23, 2001Date of Patent: August 26, 2003Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the ArmyInventor: Robert B. Dooley
-
Patent number: 6598828Abstract: Provided is a modified configuration that permits operation of instrumentation onboard platforms that may experience severe environmental conditions. The instrumentation permits autonomous acquisition of performance data. Acquired data may be recorded for later playback as well as provided to the platform's operator in real time in multiple formats, such as warning lights, digital displays, video, or audio. An application would be for sensor systems used on an automobile to record performance data, providing a warning when routine maintenance is due or a catastrophic failure is imminent. A specific application uses a flight-certified missile launcher pod on an F/A-18 aircraft, as incorporated in the aircraft's wingtip and modified to hold instrumentation conforming, at least in part, to the launcher pod's internal dimensions.Type: GrantFiled: March 5, 2001Date of Patent: July 29, 2003Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the NavyInventors: Wayne A. Fiebick, Keith E. Clark, Patrick Donohue, Sue Oah
-
Patent number: 6598456Abstract: An acceleration pulse modulation method for HYGE (Hydraulically Controlled, Gas Energized) crash simulation sleds uses servo-controlled accelerators on moveable parts of the crash simulator components and acceleration measurement instrumentation for comparison of measure acceleration of the sled with a desired acceleration to enable dynamic adjustment of the total accelerating force applied to the sled via servo-controlled accelerators, based upon measured acceleration error in order to eliminate acceleration error.Type: GrantFiled: August 31, 2001Date of Patent: July 29, 2003Inventor: Gerald R. Potts