Inspecting Patents (Class 73/865.8)
-
Patent number: 8109160Abstract: An inspection apparatus may include an arm member, a vacuum pump, a contact member, and at least one probe. The contact member may be connected to the arm member and connected to the vacuum pump for contacting and applying vacuum pressure from the vacuum pump to a workpiece surface being inspected. The at least one probe may be connected to the arm member for emitting signals against the workpiece surface being inspected and for receiving signals from the workpiece surface being inspected.Type: GrantFiled: February 6, 2009Date of Patent: February 7, 2012Assignee: The Boeing CompanyInventors: Richard H. Bossi, Gary E. Georgeson
-
Patent number: 8109161Abstract: Solids deposition in a gas environment, such as a gas transmission line or pipeline are measured using metal-coated quartz crystal microbalance (QCM) in a QCM probe within a high pressure gas chamber in the gas environment. The metal coated on the QCM may be iron, iron alloys and/or iron oxide. The weight measurements are conducted at a constant (?T) or controlled (T=f(t)) temperature between the high pressure gas chamber and the QCM probe. The weight gain during a CE cycle is associated with the solids formation rate.Type: GrantFiled: February 26, 2009Date of Patent: February 7, 2012Assignee: Baker Hughes IncorporatedInventors: Vladimir Jovancicevic, Sunder Ramachandran, Paul Hammonds
-
Patent number: 8109162Abstract: A device for indicating the passage of a pig beyond a predetermined location in a pipeline comprising a pig detector connected to a pipeline and communicating with the interior of the pipeline through an opening at the location. A means for divorcing the pressure inside the pipeline from the pressure outside the pig. A trigger mounted in the pig detector and adapted to project into the interior of the pipeline through the opening, an indicator associated with the pig detector, a cylindrical indicator being slidably mounted within the indicator housing, catch fingers mounted in the housing for movement toward and away from the central axis of the housing, a catch spring for urging the fingers towards the central axis, an indicator spring mounted within the housing for urging the indicator beyond the indicator housing so as to be visible and to provide an indication that a pig has passed.Type: GrantFiled: April 20, 2009Date of Patent: February 7, 2012Assignee: Enduro Pipeline ServicesInventors: Matthew S. Laymon, Dwane O. Laymon
-
Publication number: 20120024089Abstract: A method of teaching bonding locations of a semiconductor device on a wire bonding machine is provided. The method includes (1) providing the wire bonding machine with position data for (a) bonding locations of a first component of the semiconductor device, and (b) bonding locations of a second component of the semiconductor device; and (2) teaching the bonding locations of the first component of the semiconductor device and the second component of the semiconductor device using a pattern recognition system of the wire bonding machine to obtain more accurate position data for at least a portion of the bonding locations of the first component and the second component. The teaching step is conducted by teaching the bonding locations in the order in which they are configured to be wire bonded on the wire bonding machine.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 29, 2008Publication date: February 2, 2012Applicant: KULICKE AND SOFFA INDUSTRIES, INC.Inventors: Jeremiah Couey, Michael T. Deley, Shawn Sarbacker, Matthew Odhner
-
Publication number: 20120029928Abstract: A fingerprint analysis device is presented including a sensing mechanism including an adhesive member configured to perform at least a chemical analysis of a fingerprint and a sound emitting mechanism for emitting one or more sounds based on the chemical analysis of the fingerprint. The chemical analysis device further performs on-the-spot, substantially instantaneous chemical analysis of received fingerprints and emits or conveys audible and/or non-audible information based on the fingerprints received.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 27, 2010Publication date: February 2, 2012Inventor: Theodosios Kountotsis
-
Patent number: 8104363Abstract: A laminated packaging material is composed of a thermoplastic material outermost layer, a paper base material layer, a conductive barrier layer and a heat sealing innermost layer. An apparatus inspects an opening section, which is formed by at least partly eliminating the thermoplastic material outermost layer and the paper base material layer and by being sealed to be easily opened. In the apparatus, a probe electrode and a grounding electrode are arranged on the outer side and the inner side of the opening section, a current flowing between the probe electrode and the grounding electrode is detected by using the conductive barrier layer, and the sealing status of the opening section is inspected by a judging mechanism.Type: GrantFiled: December 14, 2006Date of Patent: January 31, 2012Assignee: Tetra Laval Holdings & Finance S.A.Inventor: Shigehiro Kinoshita
-
Patent number: 8108169Abstract: In one embodiment, the present invention is a method and apparatus for matching translucent coatings of absorbent substrates. In one embodiment, a method for matching a color of a sample includes generating a plurality of recipes, each of the recipes representing a mixture of one colorant and a clear vehicle and defining a concentration of the one colorant and a concentration of the clear vehicle, applying each of the recipes to one or more absorbent substrates, determining an absorption value and a scattering value for each of the recipes as applied to the absorbent substrates, storing the recipes in a database, where each of the recipes is stored with an associated absorption value and an associated scattering value, selecting a first recipe from among the recipes stored in the database, and evaluating a quality of the first recipe as a match to the color of the sample.Type: GrantFiled: March 27, 2009Date of Patent: January 31, 2012Assignee: Datacolor Holding AGInventor: Denis Martin
-
Publication number: 20120017705Abstract: A sensing apparatus for ground sensing from the interior of a vehicle, comprising a sensing probe capable of being brought into contact with the ground, and a handle for moving the sensing probe from a rest position into a lower ground sensing position. The sensing probe can be coupled with the handle such that upon actuation of the handle, the sensing probe is lowered into the ground sensing position accompanied by lever action. A lowering locking mechanism can be provided for arresting a lowering movement of the sensing probe. For orientation purposes, the sensing probe can be pivotable via the handle about an essentially horizontal pivot plane, and an orientation arresting mechanism can be provided for arresting an orientation position of the sensing probe. In a vehicle having such a sensing apparatus, the sensing probe can be guided through the bottom of the interior of the vehicle.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 5, 2010Publication date: January 26, 2012Inventors: Lars Shneider, Hartnut Wagner
-
Patent number: 8100268Abstract: A chute for inspection and sorting apparatus is disclosed. It comprises two sections; a first, upper section (6) and a lower, grooved section (2). The first section has a smooth, normally polished surface which allows product pieces thereon to move laterally as well as downwards. In the lower section (2) product pieces are restricted in their lateral movement by the grooves (12) and move into alignment with the grooves before being discharged into the inspection zone (22) of the apparatus. If the apparatus is for inspection only, then the product pieces continue to a collection receptacle. If the apparatus is for sorting, then an ejector (26) is included which acts in response to signals from the inspection station to eject selected pieces from the product stream. Those are deflected into a reject receptacle (28) while the remainder proceed into the collection receptacle (24).Type: GrantFiled: February 8, 2005Date of Patent: January 24, 2012Assignee: Buhler Sortex LimitedInventor: Benedict Mark Murray Deefholts
-
Patent number: 8103478Abstract: By dividing a complex set of parameters of a production process in forming semiconductor devices into individual blocks, respective PCA models may be established for each block and may thereafter be combined by operating on summary statistics of each model block in order to evaluate the complete initial parameter set. Thus, compared to conventional strategies, a significant reduction of the size of the combined PCA model compared to a single PCA model may be obtained, while also achieving an enhanced degree of flexibility in evaluating various subsets of parameters.Type: GrantFiled: February 18, 2009Date of Patent: January 24, 2012Assignee: GLOBALFOUNDRIES Inc.Inventors: Richard Good, Daniel Kost
-
Publication number: 20120009101Abstract: A sensor device (45) for calibrating a staining device (20) has a coupling unit (46) which is configured to be attachable to a transport device (22) of the staining device (20). A sensor unit (48) of the sensor device (45) is adapted to detect the presence of components of the staining device (20).Type: ApplicationFiled: July 8, 2011Publication date: January 12, 2012Applicant: LEICA BIOSYSTEMS NUSSLOCH GMBHInventors: Markus Berberich, Christian Wilke
-
Publication number: 20120006131Abstract: A method and apparatus of inspecting a sample, in which the sample is inspected under a plurality of inspection conditions, and inspection data obtained by inspecting the sample under each of the plurality of inspection conditions and position information on the sample of the inspection date in correspondence with the respective inspection conditions, are stored. The inspection data for each of the plurality of inspection conditions is against each other by the use of the position information on the sample to determine a position to be inspected in detail, and an image of the sample at a position to be inspected in detail is obtained. The obtained image is classified, the inspection condition of the sample by the use of information of classification of the image is determined.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 16, 2011Publication date: January 12, 2012Inventors: Akira Hamamatsu, Minori Noguchi, Yoshimasa Ohshima, Hidetoshi Nishiyama, Kenji Oka, Takanori Ninomiya, Maki Tanaka, Kenji Watanabe, Tetsuya Watanabe, Yoshio Morishige
-
Publication number: 20120006887Abstract: The invention relates to a sealing liquid for sealing mailpieces containing water and a penetration agent, to the uses thereof and to letter-closing devices and franking machines containing such a sealing liquid.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 23, 2011Publication date: January 12, 2012Applicant: FRANCOTYP-POSTALIA GMBHInventors: Thomas GEBHARDT, Wolfgang MUHL
-
Publication number: 20120006130Abstract: A method for grading the quality of cullet. Some embodiments include methods for generating a statistically significant sample of material from a collection of cullet contaminated with waste. Other embodiments include methods for evaluating various qualities of the sample with relatively simple techniques. Yet other embodiments include a uniform and reasonably simple method for communicating the results of the evaluation among different parties.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 6, 2010Publication date: January 12, 2012Applicant: Saint-Gobain Containers, Inc.Inventor: SHAHRIAR SABET
-
Patent number: 8091440Abstract: The present invention provides a non-destructive test apparatus which can be applied not only to a structure in dry conditions but also to a structure constructed under water or in a location to which it is difficult for a worker to gain access. The non-destructive test apparatus includes a support frame which is disposed adjacent to the target structure and has a vertical guide rail, and a vacuum box which moves upwards or downwards along the guide rail of the support frame. The vacuum box is attached to the target structure and creates a vacuum therein. The non-destructive test apparatus further includes a hoist which is provided on the upper end of the support frame to move the vacuum box upwards or downwards, a fastening unit which fastens the support frame and the vacuum box to the target structure, and a vacuum pump which creates a vacuum in the vacuum box.Type: GrantFiled: May 8, 2009Date of Patent: January 10, 2012Assignee: Korea Plant Service & Engineering Co., Ltd.Inventor: Young-Kuk Kim
-
Publication number: 20120000301Abstract: An apparatus, a method of servicing, and a method of measuring a process parameter for a coating process having an isolatable viewport are disclosed. The apparatus includes a viewport, a device positioned for selectively isolating the viewport from a process chamber, and a second chamber positioned between the viewport and the device. The device includes a first position to selectively isolate the viewport from a process chamber and to selectively maintain a predetermined process pressure in the process chamber, the device includes a second position to selectively permit line of sight measurement of the process chamber from the viewport, and the second chamber maintains the predetermined process pressure in the process chamber when the device is in the second position.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 1, 2010Publication date: January 5, 2012Applicant: PRIMESTAR SOLARInventors: Edwin Jackson LITTLE, Mark J. PAVOL
-
Patent number: 8087311Abstract: Inspecting an interior portion of a pipe system. An imaging device includes a camera that is fixedly attached to an interior surface of a pipe. The camera captures a plurality of images of an interior portion of a pipe. The imaging device is connected to a data communication network and transmits data over the data communication network. The data includes image signals representative of the captured images. A computing device, also connected to the data communication network, receives the data transmitted over the data communication network by the imaging device. The computing device is remotely located with respect to the imaging device.Type: GrantFiled: February 28, 2008Date of Patent: January 3, 2012Inventor: Stephen A. Merlo
-
Publication number: 20110309937Abstract: Sensors and systems for detecting predetermined environmental conditions or changes may include a device capable of providing information. The device may include either a shield or reconfigurable antenna. For example, in a first condition, a shield is configured to prevent communications with the device and, in a second condition, the shield is configured to enable communications with the device. Alternately, in a first condition, a reconfigurable antenna is configured to enable communications with the device and in a second condition the reconfigurable antenna is configured to prevent communications with the device. The shield or reconfigurable antenna may be configured to transition from first conditions to second conditions upon exposure to a predetermined environmental condition or change.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 21, 2011Publication date: December 22, 2011Applicant: Vigilan, IncorporatedInventors: Geoffrey J. Bunza, Steven W. Hudnut
-
Publication number: 20110304563Abstract: A touch sensor structure includes a first substrate, a second substrate, a first stage, and a conductive spacer. The first substrate and the second substrate are disposed oppositely. The first stage is disposed on the first substrate, facing the second substrate. The first stage includes at least one supporting structure, a sensing structure, and a conductive sensing pad disposed on the sensing structure. The conductive spacer is disposed on the second substrate, facing the first substrate, where the conductive spacer is corresponding to the first stage.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 17, 2010Publication date: December 15, 2011Inventors: Tsung-Chin Cheng, Zeng-De Chen, Seok-Lyul Lee
-
Patent number: 8074520Abstract: A transmission probe and a reception probe for transmitting and receiving a wideband ultrasonic wave are provided. Each time when the locations of the probes and are moved, a received wave Gj(t) is obtained. Based on a spectrum Fj(f) corresponding to the received wave Gj(t), a narrowband spectrum FAj(f) is extracted. A component wave GAj(t) corresponding to the narrowband spectrum FAj(f) is found by inverse Fourier transformation. A longitudinal wave primary resonance frequency f1 having a relationship with a thickness W (mm) of an inspection target and a primary resonance frequency fS1 of a transverse wave generated by mode conversion are calculated. A comparative display of the component waves GAj(t) is presented using f1, fS1 and sizing coefficients ns1, ns2, ns3 and ns4 for high precision inspection.Type: GrantFiled: May 12, 2006Date of Patent: December 13, 2011Assignees: H & B System Co., Ltd., The Kansai Electric Power Co., Inc., Kozo Keikaku Engineering Inc.Inventors: Masayuki Hirose, Masashi Kameyama, Yukihisa Hasegawa, Nobuki Dohi, Hong Zhang, Mitsuo Okumura
-
Publication number: 20110297422Abstract: Provided are a circuit board and an apparatus for processing a defect in a circuit board. The circuit board includes at least one non-defective cell including a non-defective circuit pattern, at least one defective cell including a defective circuit pattern, and a short line printed on the circuit pattern of the at least one defective cell.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 1, 2010Publication date: December 8, 2011Applicant: SAMSUNG ELECTRO-MECHANICS CO., LTD.Inventors: Su Hwan Cho, Sung Eun Kim, Kyoung Jin Jeong
-
Patent number: 8071938Abstract: Systems, methods and computer program products for the multi-modal detection of particles are described herein. An embodiment of the present invention is a particle detector that includes a first chamber wherein analyte particles are subjected to a first particle detection mechanism, and a second chamber coupled to the first chamber, wherein the analyte particles are subjected to a second particle detection mechanism, and wherein the detection characteristics of second particle detection mechanism are orthogonal to detection characteristics of the first particle detection mechanism.Type: GrantFiled: March 20, 2008Date of Patent: December 6, 2011Assignee: The Mitre CorporationInventor: Samar K. Guharay
-
Publication number: 20110283820Abstract: A multi-sensor head for installation in an installation opening of a workpiece that can be exposed to a process includes a first sensor site for receiving a first sensor and at least one second sensor site for receiving a second sensor, so that the first measured data can be captured with the first sensor and second measured data with the second sensor. The second sensor site is designed and disposed in the multi-sensor head such that it can be equipped with sensors of different types for performing a measurement. The multi-sensor head can be part of a measurement system using two exchangeable sensors of different types in the multi-sensor head. The multi-sensor head can be part of a workpiece.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 4, 2010Publication date: November 24, 2011Applicant: KISTLER HOLDING AGInventor: Josef Glaser
-
Patent number: 8061224Abstract: Embodiments of the invention provide a method of determining a storage lifetime of a wafer in a storage environment, the storage environment corresponding to an environment having a first value of temperature and a first value of relative humidity, the wafer having a pre-test value of a first contamination parameter, including the steps of: subjecting the wafer to a test environment for a test period, the test environment includes an environment having a second value of temperature and a second value of relative humidity; subsequently, inspecting the wafer thereby to determine a post-test value of a second contamination parameter, wherein the second value of relative humidity is greater than 30% and the second value of wafer temperature is greater than 30° C.Type: GrantFiled: May 6, 2008Date of Patent: November 22, 2011Assignee: GLOBALFOUNDRIES Singapore Pte. Ltd.Inventors: Siping Zhao, Younan Hua, Ramesh Rao Nistala, Kun Li
-
Publication number: 20110277903Abstract: A system and method for combining specific fire barrier materials along with graphic materials and interior aircraft material/parts to lower the heat release and smoke density when tested using the FAA regulated OSU Heat Release and Smoke Density Tests and/or any other test as required by any countries government in order to install graphics onto an aircraft material/part.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 12, 2011Publication date: November 17, 2011Applicant: GLOBAL ONBOARD PARTNERS, LLCInventor: Kirk R. ADAMS
-
Publication number: 20110282591Abstract: A pipeline inspection device, for example a pipeline inspection gauge or pig, is configured for inspecting a pipeline. The pipeline includes a plurality of pipes of varying orientations and a radio frequency identification device (RFID) provided on each pipe. Each RFID contains information indicative of the identity of each respective pipe. The inspection device includes a RF transceiver configured to receive the identity information from each RFID; an inertial navigation unit configured to generate three-space position information indicative of the position of the inspection device in the pipeline; and a processor configured to synchronize the identity information of each RFID with the position information to determine a three-space location of each pipe in the pipeline.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 26, 2011Publication date: November 17, 2011Applicant: WTF INDUSTRIESInventors: William COGEN, Michael Burz
-
Patent number: 8060257Abstract: Systems, methods and devices for the remote control of a robot which incorporates interchangeable tool heads. Although applicable to many different industries, the core structure of the system includes a robot with a tool head interface for mechanically, electrically and operatively interconnecting a plurality of interchangeable tool heads to perform various work functions. The robot and tool head may include several levels of digital feedback (local, remote and wide area) depending on the application. The systems include a single umbilical cord to send power, air, and communications signals between the robot and a remote computer. Additionally, all communication (including video) is preferably sent in a digital format. Finally, a GUI running on the remote computer automatically queries and identifies all of the various devices on the network and automatically configures its user options to parallel the installed devices.Type: GrantFiled: April 7, 2010Date of Patent: November 15, 2011Assignee: RedZone Robotics, Inc.Inventors: Eric Close, Adam Slifko, Edison T. Hudson, Ronald G. Genise
-
Patent number: 8051564Abstract: A method for fabricating a nozzle segment for use within a turbine nozzle assembly. The method comprises providing a nozzle segment including an outer band, an inner band, and at least one vane extending there between, wherein at least one of the inner band and the outer band is formed with a transition piece groove defined therein, positioning an inspection tool in contact with the nozzle assembly such that the inspection tool is aligned relative to the nozzle segment using at least one datum, and verifying an alignment of each transition piece groove using the inspection tool.Type: GrantFiled: January 9, 2007Date of Patent: November 8, 2011Assignee: General Electric CompanyInventors: Graham David Sherlock, Christopher Edward Thompson
-
Publication number: 20110259076Abstract: Provided is an apparatus for assessing interface integrity between a medium and an implant. A first signal is translated from a motion of an impact body during impact with an abutment connected to the implant. In some embodiments, the first signal is filtered using a zero phase shift filter and then used for assessing the interface integrity. Since no phase shift is introduced, the interface integrity is accurately assessed. In another embodiment, the apparatus maintains a system model for impacting the impact body against the abutment. The apparatus analytically determines an interface property by applying a system property that has been determined to the system model. An accurate system model allows for an accurate assessment. According to another broad aspect, there is provided a method of conducting the impact test. According to the method, a person ensures that the impact body impacts against a consistent portion of the abutment.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 17, 2007Publication date: October 27, 2011Applicants: CARITAS HEALTH GROUP, THE GOVERNORS OF THE UNIVERSITY OF ALBERTAInventors: Gary Faulkner, Donald Wayne Raboud, Ryan Clair Swain, Johan Francis Wolfaardt
-
Publication number: 20110252899Abstract: Methods for processing a vessel, for example to provide a gas barrier or lubricity, are disclosed. First and second PECVD or other vessel processing stations or devices and a vessel holder comprising a vessel port are provided. An opening of the vessel can be seated on the vessel port. The interior surface of the seated vessel can be processed via the vessel port by the first and second processing stations or devices. Vessel barrier, lubricity and hydrophobic coatings and coated vessels, for example syringes and medical sample collection tubes are disclosed. A vessel processing system and vessel inspection apparatus and methods are also disclosed, for example using material outgassed from a surface to inspect the properties of a surface coating.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 27, 2011Publication date: October 20, 2011Inventors: John T. Felts, Thomas E. Fisk, Robert S. Abrams, John Ferguson, Jonathan R. Freedman, Robert J. Pangborn, Peter J. Sagona
-
Patent number: 8041540Abstract: A method for monitoring a wind turbine. A monitoring signal, including an audio signal and/or an image signal, is received from a monitoring device. Operating data are calculated based on the received monitoring signal. An operating condition and/or a deviation is determined by comparing the operating data to baseline data.Type: GrantFiled: December 9, 2009Date of Patent: October 18, 2011Assignee: General Electric CompanyInventors: Lutz Kerber, Florian Doorenspleet
-
Publication number: 20110250262Abstract: Disclosed is a method for producing a liposome, which comprises: a first mixing step wherein one or more lipids are mixed with an aqueous solution containing a water-miscible organic solvent; a heating step wherein the mixture obtained by mixing the lipids with the aqueous solution is heated to a temperature at which the lipids are dissolved in the aqueous solution; and a cooling step following the heating step, wherein the resulting mixture is cooled down to a temperature at which a liposome is produced. Uniform-sized liposomes having a high encapsulation rate can be easily obtained by the method.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 24, 2009Publication date: October 13, 2011Applicant: BIOMEDCORE, INC.Inventors: Yoshitaka Shimizu, Yasuhiko Mibe
-
Publication number: 20110239794Abstract: The invention relates to a locating device, particularly a handheld locating device, comprising a locating unit (12) that is provided to detect the presence of an item (16) arranged in an examination object (14) by means of an examination signal (18), and a motion sensor unit (20) that is provided to detect at least one motion parameter (BKi) along at least one direction of motion (22, 24, 26). It is proposed that the locating device comprise an evaluation unit (28), which is provided to evaluate the motion parameter (BKi) and at least one locating parameter (OKi) of the locating unit (12) together.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 23, 2009Publication date: October 6, 2011Applicant: Robert Bosch GmbHInventors: Reiner Krapf, Bjoern Haase, Kai Renz
-
Publication number: 20110240621Abstract: Various applications for structured CNT-engineered materials are disclosed herein. In one application, systems are disclosed, wherein a structured CNT-engineered material forms at least part of an object capable of providing its own structural feedback. In another application, systems are disclosed, wherein a structured CNT-engineered material forms at least part of an object capable of generating heat. In yet another application, systems are disclosed, wherein a structured CNT-engineered material forms at least part of an object capable of functioning as an antenna, for example, for receiving, transmitting, absorbing and/or dissipating a signal. In still another application, systems are disclosed, wherein a structured CNT-engineered material forms at least part of an object capable of serving as a conduit for thermal or electrical energy.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 26, 2011Publication date: October 6, 2011Applicants: METIS DESIGN CORPORATION, MASSACHUSETTS INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGYInventors: Seth S. KESSLER, Ajay Raghavan, Brian L. Wardle
-
Patent number: 8032315Abstract: A system and method for analyzing a device that includes a mass configured for motion. The system includes a tri-axial accelerometer disposed to detect acceleration vectors of the device and to output three channels of acceleration data, and a user interface receiving the three channels of acceleration data. The user interface is configured to correlate the three channels of acceleration data with a reference frame defined by three orthogonal axes intersecting at a vertex, and includes a display and a selector. The display shows sets of options that represent dispositions of the device with respect to gravity, placements of the tri-axial accelerometer with respect to the device, and orientations of the tri-axial accelerometer with respect to the device. The selector selects one device disposition option, one tri-axial accelerometer placement option, and one tri-axial accelerometer orientation option.Type: GrantFiled: November 26, 2008Date of Patent: October 4, 2011Assignee: Fluke Electronics CorporationInventors: Paul Richer, Terry G. Morey, Ferdinand Laurino, Sidney Lin, Paul Heydron, Cy Y. Kawasaki, Robert Maa{umlaut over (n)}nao
-
Publication number: 20110229925Abstract: A phenotron assay can be used for determining an adverse effect on health by: identifying an exposure condition to be studied for an adverse effect on the health of an organism; providing a phenotron having one or more sensors each configured to sense a signal; introducing one or more test founder organisms into the phenotron, said test founder organisms each having a signal emitting tag that is sensed by the one or more sensors and each being exposed to the exposure condition; introducing one or more control founder organisms into the phenotron, said control founder organisms each having a signal emitting tag that is sensed by the one or more sensors and none of said control founder organisms being exposed to the exposure condition; collecting, from the one or more sensors, signals from the tags to obtain data indicative of a parameter of the health of the one or more test founder organisms compared to the one or more control founder organisms; and determining from the data whether the exposure condition hasType: ApplicationFiled: May 28, 2009Publication date: September 22, 2011Inventor: Wayne K. Potts
-
Publication number: 20110226072Abstract: An electric generator (1) includes a casing (2) that envelops a stator (3) and a rotor (4). The casing (2) has an aperture (5) through which the generator casing inside (7) is inspectable during generator operation. A method includes inspecting during generator operation, through the aperture (5) of the casing (2), the casing inside (7).Type: ApplicationFiled: March 2, 2011Publication date: September 22, 2011Inventors: Hossein Safari Zadeh, Damir Novosel
-
Patent number: 8020460Abstract: An in-line inspection tool comprising sensors and sensor housings is disclosed. Each sensor housing may contain at least one sensor. The tool may further comprise a structure comprising a central axis and a plurality of sensor mounts distributed circumferentially about the central axis. Each sensor mount may support a different sensor housing. The plurality of sensor mounts may support the sensor housings such that the first end of each sensor housing circumferentially overlaps the second end of an adjacent sensor housing. By overlapping, sensor housings may support sensors with substantially uniform spacing around the circumference of the inspection tool in normal operation and still allow sensor housings to move relative to one another to accommodate changes in the dimension of the circumference.Type: GrantFiled: March 13, 2009Date of Patent: September 20, 2011Inventor: Philip M. Hoyt
-
Patent number: 8014968Abstract: A high-definition multimedia interface circuit uses a high-definition multimedia interface encoder to produce a plurality of channels of data. An output circuit, connected to the high-definition multimedia interface encoder, produces a plurality of channels of high frequency data from the data produced by the high-definition multimedia interface encoder. A multiplexer selects a channel for sampling, and a capacitive coupler capacitively couples the multiplexer to a sampling circuit. The sampling circuit produces sampled data corresponding to the high frequency data having a clock rate less than a clock rate of the high frequency data. A test circuit compares the sampled data with the data produced by the high-definition multimedia interface encoder.Type: GrantFiled: September 25, 2009Date of Patent: September 6, 2011Assignee: Analog Devices, Inc.Inventors: Barry L. Stakely, Rodney D. Miller, Jingang Yi
-
Publication number: 20110209549Abstract: An apparatus and method for inspecting a rail joint bar transported along a railway rail by an inspection vehicle is provided. The apparatus and method includes a pair of ultrasonic transducers housed in liquid-filled wheels. The wheels are positionable for a stored position to a measurement position in rolling contact with the vehicle surfaces of the rail joint bars on each side of the rail. The ultrasonic transducer transmits a signal into the rail joint bar and the reflected signal is detected by the transducer and analyzed to identify flaws in the rail joint bar.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 31, 2010Publication date: September 1, 2011Applicant: Herzog Services, Inc.Inventor: Jason M. Kahn
-
Publication number: 20110210856Abstract: A system for detecting and containing a breach in a container includes a first containment layer and a first sensor layer. The first sensor layer includes at least one signal path extending the first sensor layer. The first sensor layer may be provided by either a fiber optic or a wire. An inability of the at least one signal path to conduct a signal from a first end to a second end represents either a breach, or an attempted breach, from outside the container or a failure of the container. The containment layers may seal against any leakage of material in a container subsequent to a breach either from within or from without. An additional layer may be provided to protect against intrusion and may be made from material such as Kevlar. The detection and containment system may be implemented to protect tunnels, pipelines, hatches and manhole covers.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 7, 2011Publication date: September 1, 2011Inventor: Gilbert D. Beinhocker
-
Publication number: 20110209566Abstract: The liquid droplet discharging apparatus includes an image formation area and two inspection areas. The apparatus includes a pair of workpiece stages each configured to support a workpiece thereon, an inspection stage arranged between the two workpiece stages, a pair of image recognizing sections configured to execute image recognition with respect to an inspection discharge result discharged onto the inspection stage, and a stage moving mechanism configured to selectively move one of workpiece stages between the image formation area and one of the workpiece exchange areas, to selectively move the other of the workpiece stages between the image formation area and the other of the workpiece exchanges areas, and to move the inspection stage between the inspection areas.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 25, 2011Publication date: September 1, 2011Applicant: SEIKO EPSON CORPORATIONInventor: Kenji KOJIMA
-
Publication number: 20110205348Abstract: A system and method for performing an external inspection on a rotor blade of a wind turbine are disclosed. The system may generally include a frame configured to extend at least partially around an outer perimeter of the rotor blade and a sensing device coupled to the frame. Additionally, first and second spacer arms may extend from the frame. The first spacer arm may be configured to contact a pressure side surface of the rotor blade. The second spacer arm may be configured to contact a suction side surface of the rotor blade.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 16, 2010Publication date: August 25, 2011Applicant: GENERAL ELECTRIC COMPANYInventors: Peter James Fritz, Kevin George Harding, Bradley Graham Moore
-
Patent number: 8001858Abstract: A pipeline inspection device, for example a pipeline inspection gauge or pig, is configured for inspecting a pipeline. The pipeline includes a plurality of pipes of varying orientations and a radio frequency identification device (RFID) provided on each pipe. Each RFID contains information indicative of the identity of each respective pipe. The inspection device includes a RF transceiver configured to receive the identity information from each RFID; an inertial navigation unit configured to generate three-space position information indicative of the position of the inspection device in the pipeline; and a processor configured to synchronize the identity information of each RFID with the position information to determine a three-space location of each pipe in the pipeline.Type: GrantFiled: January 22, 2008Date of Patent: August 23, 2011Inventors: William Cogen, Michael Burz
-
Patent number: 8001853Abstract: The present invention provides a conditioning chamber device and a conditioning method for metallurgical samples which can be directly connected to an instrument having an examination chamber operable in an ultra high vacuum (UHV) condition at a selected pressure below 10?7 Torr. The conditioning chamber comprises at least one vacuum pump means to reduce the conditioning chamber to the selected UHV condition corresponding to the selected pressure of the examination chamber; sample retaining means; at least one fracturing means to prepare an analysis surface on the sample; sample drying means for slow drying the sample in the selected UHV condition; a sealable outlet constructed and arranged to be operatively connected to the inlet of the examination chamber; and transporting means to transport the sample after surface preparation through a connecting means into the examination chamber without leaving the selected ultra high vacuum condition.Type: GrantFiled: November 2, 2007Date of Patent: August 23, 2011Assignee: Her Majesty the Queen in right of Canada, as represented by the Minister of Natural ResourcesInventor: Allen Pratt
-
Publication number: 20110197981Abstract: The present invention relates to a system for processing plant holders with at least one plant therein, such as trays and/or pots, which can be arranged on a carrying surface associated with the system. The system comprises at least one processing station on or in the carrying surface and transport means for transporting at least one plant holder at a time from and to the processing station. The transport means comprise at least one guide arranged at a height above a ground surface, a carriage which is displaceable relative to the guide, and at least one gripper for raising and/or lowering on the carriage for selectively picking up from above or setting down the plant holder from or onto the carrying surface, or in or at a processing station. The present invention also relates to a method for processing plant holders with at least one plant therein, such as trays and/or pots.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 26, 2010Publication date: August 18, 2011Inventor: Cornelius Frans Taco Visser
-
Patent number: 8000936Abstract: A data analysis program operable for displaying at least one representation of a buried pipeline in a geographical area and associated on-pipe current values at various locations along the pipeline. The data analysis program is storable in a memory device and executable by a processor to generate a display on a display device. The data analysis program includes instructions for displaying a digital map representing at least a portion of the buried pipeline extending across the geographical area being surveyed. The program further includes instructions for displaying a current plot of current values associated with the various locations in the geographical area, and instructions for displaying a table having a plurality of fields including the leakage current values and associated geographical coordinates where the current values were measured in the geographical area being surveyed.Type: GrantFiled: November 10, 2008Date of Patent: August 16, 2011Assignee: Saudi Arabian Oil CompanyInventor: Thomas James Davis
-
Patent number: 7997847Abstract: Systems and methods that process a plurality of surgical instruments for cleaning and/or packaging. A device identifies a robot-ready insert having a predetermined configuration for accepting at least one type of surgical instrument. The surgical instruments are identified and oriented according to type using an automated apparatus. Specialized tools are also provided for automatically opening and closing surgical instruments, flipping instruments and assisting in the processing and maintenance of surgical instruments. The automated apparatus then places each of the surgical instrument types in one or more predetermined areas of the insert, configured to accept a predetermined set of surgical instrument types.Type: GrantFiled: December 10, 2008Date of Patent: August 16, 2011Assignee: Robotic Systems & Technologies, Inc.Inventors: Michael R. Treat, David Michael Brady, Russell Baker, Jack M. Kaplan, David Berk
-
Patent number: 8000934Abstract: A method and a device for diagnosing an ascertainment of a performance quantity of an internal combustion engine. Within the scope of a first diagnostic process a first value which is characteristic of a first performance quantity of the internal combustion engine ascertained at a first point in time after switching off the internal combustion engine is compared to a predefined value, and an error is identified when in the comparison it is detected that the absolute value of a first difference between the first value and the predefined value exceeds a predefined first threshold value for the first point in time. The predefined first threshold value is predefined to be smaller the longer the time since the internal combustion engine has been switched off.Type: GrantFiled: September 9, 2008Date of Patent: August 16, 2011Assignee: Robert Bosch GmbHInventors: Achim Oberascher, Damien Bouvier
-
Publication number: 20110185828Abstract: Apparatus/device for the contained inspection and possible transportation of a potentially dangerous object, the apparatus including: an inspection unit (10), the inspection unit (10) able to open to receive the object and then close to provide a sealed environment for manual inspection of the object, the inspection unit (10) also including at least one glove member allowing a user external to the sealed environment of the closed inspection unit (10) to manipulate the object within the closed inspection unit (10); and, a transportation unit (80) adapted to wholly receive the inspection unit (10) and provide a further sealed environment containing the inspection unit (10) containing the object; whereby, the combination of the inspection unit (10) and the transportation unit (80) safely contain the object for possible transportation.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 28, 2011Publication date: August 4, 2011Inventor: TIMOTHY ROBERTS