Testing Of Apparatus Patents (Class 73/865.9)
  • Patent number: 7778799
    Abstract: Described are computer-based methods and apparatuses for automated self test for a thermal processing system. A signal to execute the automated self test is received. The automated self test is executed. The execution includes executing one or more self test instructions for the one or more subsystems of the system. Data can be received from sensors associated with the subsystems. The data can be analyzed to determine the results of the automated self test for the thermal processing system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 2, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 17, 2010
    Assignee: Hypertherm, Inc.
    Inventors: Aaron Donald Brandt, Richard Ray Anderson, Christopher Scott Passage, Wayne Chin
  • Patent number: 7770478
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for measuring a chuck attachment force are provided. The apparatus is capable of measuring loads applied to a measurement substrate, while the measurement substrate is detached from a chuck, and precisely calculating necessary force through a process of comparing and analyzing values of the measured loads. This may prevent errors in the application of attachment force during a semiconductor manufacturing process. In the semiconductor manufacturing process, when the substrate is detached from a chuck, the substrate may be prevented from being deformed or cracked.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 23, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 10, 2010
    Assignee: ADP Engineering Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Hyoung Kyu Son
  • Publication number: 20100186663
    Abstract: Methods and apparatus for protecting a substrate support in a semiconductor process chamber are provided herein. In some embodiments, an apparatus for protecting a substrate support in a semiconductor process chamber includes a semiconductor substrate and a coating comprising yttrium disposed on an upper surface of the semiconductor substrate. The semiconductor substrate is configured to be removably placed on the substrate support. In some embodiments, the semiconductor substrate comprises silicon. In some embodiments, the coating comprises yttrium and oxygen. In some embodiments, the protective apparatus may be disposed atop a substrate support within a semiconductor process chamber. In some embodiments, the protective apparatus may protect the surface of the substrate support from damage during one or more chamber processes, such as marathon testing or chamber cleaning.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 23, 2009
    Publication date: July 29, 2010
    Applicant: APPLIED MATERIALS, INC.
    Inventor: Jon Christian FARR
  • Patent number: 7762153
    Abstract: A method for determining the radial deformation of a blade in a turbine that includes: 1) taking an initial measurement of the blade with one or more proximity sensors disposed around the circumference of a stage of blades; 2) after the initial measurement, taking a second measurement of the blade with the one or more proximity sensors; 3) making a determination of the radial deformation of the blade by comparing the initial measurement to the second measurement. The initial measurement and the second measurement may be taken while the turbine is operating.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 31, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 27, 2010
    Assignee: General Electric Company
    Inventors: Scott Hoyte, Eric Gebhardt, Erin Bauknight, Samuel Draper, John Grant
  • Publication number: 20100185175
    Abstract: A system for at least partial closed-loop control of a medical condition is disclosed. The system includes at least one medical fluid pump. The medical fluid pump including a sensor for determining the volume of fluid pumped by the pump. Also, at least one continuous analyte monitor, and a controller. The controller is in communication with the medical fluid pump and the at least one continuous analyte monitor. The controller includes a processor. The processor includes instructions for delivery of medical fluid based at least on data received from the at least one continuous analyte monitor.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 15, 2009
    Publication date: July 22, 2010
    Applicant: DEKA Products Limited Partnership
    Inventors: Dean Kamen, John M. Kerwin, Larry B. Gray, Marc A. Mandro, David Blumberg, JR.
  • Patent number: 7757574
    Abstract: A measuring device incorporating a substrate with sensors that measure the processing conditions that a wafer may undergo during manufacturing. The substrate can be inserted into a processing chamber by a robot head and the measuring device can transmit the conditions in real time or store the conditions for subsequent analysis. Sensitive electronic components of the device can be distanced or isolated from the most deleterious processing conditions in order increase the accuracy, operating range, and reliability of the device. Isolation may be provided by vacuum or suitable material and phase change material may be located adjacent to electronics to maintain a low temperature.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 13, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 20, 2010
    Assignee: KLA-Tencor Corporation
    Inventors: Wayne G. Renken, Mei H. Sun
  • Patent number: 7759947
    Abstract: In a method for determining the moisture of a running material web, in particular a paper web or paperboard web, the material web is scanned by way of a sensor including a microwave resonator, the resonance response of the microwave resonator is investigated, and the moisture in the material web is established in the light of this resonance response while taking account of the distance between the microwave resonator and the material web. Also disclosed is a corresponding apparatus for determining the moisture.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 14, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 20, 2010
    Assignee: VOITH Patent GmbH
    Inventors: Oliver Kaufmann, Peter Biener, Rainer Wenzl
  • Patent number: 7743676
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: November 27, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 29, 2010
    Assignees: Shenzhen Futaihong Precision Industry Co., Ltd., FIH (Hong Kong) Limited
    Inventors: Lei Li, Ping Chen, Zhi Cheng, Jian-Gui Wu, Hong-Yan Li, Xue-Liang Zhai, Chang-Fa Sun, Yong-Zhi Tao
  • Patent number: 7739926
    Abstract: Embodiments of the invention generally related to a method and apparatus for scanning a v-bank filter. In one embodiment, a method for testing a v-bank filter includes providing an aerosol challenge to an upstream side of a v-bank filter, scanning a downstream side of the v-bank filter with a probe having one or more rectangular sample ports, and providing samples taken through the probe during scanning to a test instrument. In yet another embodiment, a probe for scanning a v-bank filter is provided that includes a body having a plurality of rectangular sample ports. Each sample port is tapered to a port configured to connect to a sample tube. The long sides of the rectangular sample ports are arranged in a stacked parallel orientation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 1, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 22, 2010
    Assignee: Camfil Farr, Inc.
    Inventors: Thomas C. Morse, Mark Huza, Steven T. Devine
  • Patent number: 7734388
    Abstract: A wheel-speed-sensor-anomaly detection apparatus detects anomaly of wheel speed sensors of a vehicle. When a difference between the minimum wheel speed among detected wheel speeds and the smallest value among the remaining wheel speeds is greater than a predetermined threshold value, in principle, a wheel speed sensor of the wheel corresponding to the minimum wheel speed is determined to be anomalous. Meanwhile, when a wheel having a lowered tire air pressure (air-pressure-lowered wheel) is present and a road surface on which the vehicle is currently traveling is a low-? road surface, the operation of detecting anomaly of the wheel speed sensors is prohibited. This operation reliably prevents erroneous detection of anomaly of the wheel speed sensor of the air-pressure-lowered wheel, which erroneous detection would otherwise occur due to the locking tendency of the air-pressure-lowered wheel occurring because of decreased tire air pressure, in particular, on a low-? road surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 28, 2006
    Date of Patent: June 8, 2010
    Assignee: Advics Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Hirohisa Tanaka, Yoshimasa Yamamoto, Kazuhiro Kato
  • Patent number: 7729878
    Abstract: A probe card assembly, according to some embodiments of the invention, can comprise a tester interface configured to make electrical connections with a test controller, a plurality of electrically conductive probes disposed to contact terminals of an electronic device to be tested, and a plurality of electrically conductive data paths connecting the tester interface and the probes. At least one of the data paths can comprise an air bridge structure trace comprising an electrically conductive trace spaced away from an electrically conductive plate by a plurality of pylons.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 28, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 1, 2010
    Assignee: FormFactor, Inc.
    Inventor: Gaetan L. Mathieu
  • Patent number: 7726409
    Abstract: Non-reactive test agents may be used to test fire suppression systems in which reactive fire suppression agents may be used to release catalytic fire suppression agents for transport by naturally occurring flows paths downstream to the vicinity of flame holding regions for fire suppression for example, in aircraft.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 29, 2006
    Date of Patent: June 1, 2010
    Assignee: Eclipse Aerospace, Inc.
    Inventors: Peter D. Haaland, Ken Harness
  • Patent number: 7720635
    Abstract: A method and device, wherein the following steps are carried out: measurement or determination of waste gas concentration parameters, waste gas temperature, outside temperature, fuel power during a limited observation period; determination of the efficiency of the heating system in the area of observation over a period of time; determination of the average outside temperature in the area of observation; determination of heating performance produced in accordance with an average outside temperature on the basis of fuel power over a period of time and the efficiency of the heating system over a period of time in the area of observation; determination of maximum heating performance which is to be obtained in accordance with a minimum outside temperature from the average heating performance, minimum outside temperature, average inside temperature and average outside temperature in the area of observation; determination of the heat contact value of the heating system from the maximum heating performance and durati
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 11, 2005
    Date of Patent: May 18, 2010
    Assignees: Testo AG
    Inventors: Martin Donath, Knut Hoyer
  • Publication number: 20100116070
    Abstract: An assembly that provides operational information about operation of a device, such as a nasal spray pump or metered dose inhaler. A linkage adapted to extend between a mounting assembly, connected to a stationary part of the device, and an adapter assembly, connected to a movable part of the device, is in operational relationship with a transducer to enable the transducer to indicate a mechanical relationship between the movable and stationary parts of the device corresponding to the operation of the device. A data collection and processing system may be connected to the transducer for determining information that may be used to program an automated actuation system.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 13, 2010
    Publication date: May 13, 2010
    Applicant: Proveris Scientific Corporation
    Inventors: Dino J. Farina, Donald C. Swavely
  • Patent number: 7703345
    Abstract: A system for monitoring a dismantling process of scrapped vehicle includes an input means for inputting vehicle information, a weighing means for measuring a weight of dismantled parts collected in each process and a weight of collected liquid materials, and a detecting means for detecting a work start point and end point. The information measured by the means are input to a central computer so that the central computer collects vehicle information, time information for each process, weight information of collected parts and liquid materials, and thereby monitors the entire dismantling processes in real-time and the information, such as, a kind of vehicle, a working time for each process, a weight of collected part and liquid material, a reusing rate and so on, can be stored in a database.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 29, 2006
    Date of Patent: April 27, 2010
    Assignee: Hyundai Motor Company
    Inventor: Won Bae Lee
  • Publication number: 20100089119
    Abstract: A forming speed determination method for determining a forming speed of a press-processing device with a plurality of measurement points on a sheet material to conduct press-forming of the sheet material with a press-processing device at a predetermined forming speed. Strain states at respective points on the press-formed sheet material are plotted on a forming limit diagram including the forming limit curve of a sheet material to produce a strain distribution chart. Subsequently, the closest point to the forming limit curve among the points is defined as a specific measurement point. When this specific measurement point is located in the bulge region, the forming speed of a press-processing device is decreased to be slower than the above-mentioned predetermined forming speed. Meanwhile, when this specific measurement point is located in the draw region, the forming speed of a press-processing device is increased to be faster than the above-mentioned predetermined forming speed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 4, 2007
    Publication date: April 15, 2010
    Applicant: HONDA MOTOR CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Yuichi Nagai, Hideo Meguri
  • Patent number: 7698087
    Abstract: A program circuit activates a pass signal when a first program unit is programmed. The first program unit is programmed when a test of an internal circuit is passed. A mode setting circuit switches an operation mode to a normal operation mode or a test mode by external control. A state machine allows a partial circuit of the internal circuit to perform an unusual operation different from a normal operation when the pass signal is inactivated during the normal operation mode. By recognizing the unusual operation during the normal operation mode, it can be easily recognized that a semiconductor integrated circuit is bad. Since a failure can be recognized without shifting to the test mode, for example, a user who purchases the semiconductor integrated circuit can also easily recognize the failure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 22, 2007
    Date of Patent: April 13, 2010
    Assignee: Fujitsu Microelectronics Limited
    Inventor: Kota Yamaguchi
  • Publication number: 20100077876
    Abstract: A device for testing decoking tools comprises means 30 for receiving the decoking tool 31 which can be connected to a high-pressure water conduit, as well as means for testing the water jet which exits from a nozzle of the decoking tool 31 following the opening of the high-pressure water conduit. It is possible to test, measure and analyse the high-pressure water jet exiting from the nozzle by means of this testing device in order to optimize the performance of the decoking tool on the basis of the results of this examination. According to the method of the invention the high-pressure water jet generated by means of the nozzles of the decoking tool is exposed to means for testing the high-pressure water jet.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 30, 2008
    Publication date: April 1, 2010
    Inventors: Wolfgang Paul, Kay Simon, Andreas Wupper
  • Patent number: 7689515
    Abstract: A method of evaluating a power plant having a design life based on operating the plant within an allowable chemical exposure range includes accumulating a history of a chemical exposure of a steam generating portion of the power plant. The method also includes determining a remaining life of the plant based on the history of the chemical exposure and assuming continued operation of the plant within the allowable chemical exposure range. The method may also include evaluating an economic value of operating the plant based on the remaining life of the plant.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 10, 2004
    Date of Patent: March 30, 2010
    Assignee: Siemens Energy, Inc.
    Inventors: James C. Bellows, Fred W. Shoemaker
  • Patent number: 7689385
    Abstract: A method of analyzing structural vibration according to one aspect of the present invention includes reception of data from a plurality of sensors on a structure, filtration of the data to exclude data outside of a selected frequency band, association of sensor locations with locations on computer model, and generation of an animation which displays the structural vibration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 29, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 30, 2010
    Assignee: Pratt & Whitney Rocketdyne, Inc.
    Inventor: Lawrence Shen
  • Patent number: 7677122
    Abstract: In a steering angle sensor assembly for a vehicle, dependent gears are provided to mesh with an inner periphery of a rotary member rotated together with a steering wheel and to be rotated, and a circuit board that detects the rotation of the dependent gears and generates electric signals is also provided on the side of the dependent gears provided on the inner periphery of the rotary member. Accordingly, the entire size of the steering angle sensor assembly can be reduced to be substantially the same as the size of the rotary member rotated together with the steering wheel. As a result, it is possible to further reduce the entire size of the steering angle sensor assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 31, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 16, 2010
    Assignee: Hyundai Mobis Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Ji Woong Kim
  • Publication number: 20100058880
    Abstract: The biasing spring of a valve is excited and the response detected to determine valve characteristics. Excitation is typically longitudinal oscillation applied by a vibrator connected in series with the spring. By performing a frequency sweep, resonance can be detected, and excitation can usefully be applied at the resonant frequency to produce valve lift. Testing can be performed in-situ, and maintenance of a plurality of valves is possible by collecting characteristic data for each valve and comparing against stored values.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 26, 2007
    Publication date: March 11, 2010
    Applicant: QINETIQ LIMITED
    Inventor: Martin John MOODY
  • Publication number: 20100043576
    Abstract: An apparatus for measuring a blade tip clearance for a gas turbine engine may include a frame having an attachment system, an arm associated with the frame, and a measurement sensor associated with the arm.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 29, 2007
    Publication date: February 25, 2010
    Inventor: Terry A. Craig
  • Publication number: 20100037714
    Abstract: A method for controlling a biaxial wheel test machine used for simulating loads experienced by a test wheel under actual driving conditions and for obtaining an accurate determination of wheel camber angle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 15, 2008
    Publication date: February 18, 2010
    Applicant: FORD GLOBAL TECHNOLOGIES, LLC
    Inventor: David Douglas Friske
  • Patent number: 7661327
    Abstract: A method for recording changing boiler conditions over time in three spatial dimensions including: sensing the boiler conditions in real time using sensors which traverse the combustion chamber and gas path generating data from a plurality of positions in one or more supervisory spaces of interest within the boiler system; transmitting the generated data to a computer system; presenting data containing sensor position information and which optionally contains temperature, chemical species information, and other combustor condition information for delivery to a boiler management system to enable said boiler management system to make real time operational adjustments.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 11, 2006
    Date of Patent: February 16, 2010
    Inventors: John Frank Bourgein, Eric Fischer
  • Patent number: 7664618
    Abstract: The present invention such as active diagnostic algorithms is developed not only to realize the early detection of degraded vacuum pumps for the protection of pump failure but also to provide their predictive maintenance. According to the present invention, it is possible to find simple and effective ways to deal with technical problems arising from the large variability of the pump-by-pump operation characteristics and the multiple process conditions where pumps run under the idle operation and gas-loaded operation conditions alternately, especially in semiconductor manufacturing process.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 17, 2004
    Date of Patent: February 16, 2010
    Assignee: Korea Research Institute of Standards and Science
    Inventors: Wan Sup Cheung, Jong Yeon Lim, Kwang Hwa Chung, Soo Gab Lee
  • Patent number: 7658122
    Abstract: An assembly that provides operational information about operation of a spray device, such as a nasal spray pump or metered dose inhaler. A linkage adapted to extend between a mounting assembly, connected to a stationary part of the spray device, and an adapter assembly, connected to a movable part of the spray device, is in operational relationship with a transducer to enable the transducer to indicate a mechanical relationship between the movable and stationary parts of the spray device corresponding to the operation of the spray device. A data collection and processing system may be connected to the transducer for determining information that may be used to program an automated actuation system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 14, 2004
    Date of Patent: February 9, 2010
    Assignee: Proveris Scientific Corporation
    Inventors: Dino J. Farina, Donald C. Swavely
  • Patent number: 7654127
    Abstract: The present application is directed to systems and methods associated with infusion pumps, which can optionally utilize an electrokinetic driving mechanism. Infusion pumps, including electrokinetically-driven pumps, are discussed, along with schemes for controlling their operation. As well, systems and methods of detecting malfunctions in infusion pumps are discussed. Any number of malfunctions can be detected including the presence of occlusions and/or leaks. In some instances, a measurement associated with some aspect of electrokinetic phenomena (e.g., an electrode measurement such as voltage or current) is compared with one or more sample values, the comparison allowing an indication of pump malfunction to be determined. A variety of such measurements and comparison techniques are discussed in the present disclosure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 21, 2006
    Date of Patent: February 2, 2010
    Assignee: Lifescan, Inc.
    Inventors: Peter Krulevitch, Mingqi Zhao, Sebastian Bohm, Deon Anex, Michael Gearhart
  • Patent number: 7650805
    Abstract: The present invention comprises a filter housing having two or more layers of filters. Each layer is preferably spaced apart from each other so as to provide a chamber or gap between them. A port or vent is located within the chamber or gap between the two layers to provide an intermediate path for gas or liquid to flow through one layer of filter or membrane and out the vent or port for integrity testing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 29, 2006
    Date of Patent: January 26, 2010
    Assignee: Millipore Corporation
    Inventors: Curtis Nauseda, Kari Backes, Kevin Rautio
  • Patent number: 7653512
    Abstract: According to the present invention, the most challenging issues in this work have been to find systematic ways of enabling maintenance engineers to decide an adequate time for the replacement of vacuum pumps on the basis of their current performance assessment result. Further, the comparison of the currently evaluated diagnostics analysis results and the initial (or reference) data set is shown to enable maintenance engineers to decide the replacement of the considered vacuum pump according to the evaluated pump performance indicators. This quantitative diagnostic analysis result is expected not only to enable maintenance engineers to decide an adequate time for the replacement of vacuum pumps on the basis of their current performance assessment results but also to improve the reliability and confidence of the predictive maintenance of low vacuum pumps.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 17, 2004
    Date of Patent: January 26, 2010
    Assignee: Korea Reserch Institute of Standards and Science
    Inventors: Wan Sup Cheung, Jong Yeon Lim, Kwang Hwa Chung, Soo Gab Lee
  • Publication number: 20100005912
    Abstract: A method for evaluating a lubrication containment system is disclosed herein. In one lubrication containment system applicable to the inventive method, a seal runner can be fixed to the rotatable structure and seal against a static radial seal supported by the sump housing. The method of the invention includes the step of rotating the structure relative to the sump housing. The inventive method also includes the step of directing test fluid to the structure inside the sump housing. The inventive method also includes the step of quantifying an accumulation of test lubricant at the seal runner during rotation by omitting the radial seal from the lubrication containment system. As a result, test lubricant can pass out of the sump housing. The amount of test lubricant that passes out of the sump housing, past the location where the seal runner would be or would have been, corresponds to the amount of lubricant that accumulates at the seal runner during operation in the field.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 11, 2008
    Publication date: January 14, 2010
    Inventors: DOUG COOK, Brad Chaplin, Al Cookerly
  • Patent number: 7644603
    Abstract: A method of testing a surgical system that takes advantage of the fact that in a balanced irrigation/aspiration system (inflow?outflow) the duration of the aspiration pressure recovery to the irrigation fluid source pressure immediately following pump stop is independent of pump run time. This method provides a more reliable way of detecting restricted irrigation flow configurations not detectable by the current methods, such as marginal irrigation flow cases that could potentially lead to surgical complications (e.g. chamber collapse during post-occlusion break surge).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 27, 2005
    Date of Patent: January 12, 2010
    Assignee: Alcon, Inc.
    Inventors: Raphael Gordon, Michael D. Morgan
  • Publication number: 20100000345
    Abstract: Provided is a testing apparatus capable of testing locomotive performance of a robot while harmonizing motions of the apparatus with that of the robot. According to the locomotive performance testing apparatus (1), a motor working plan is made on the basis of a robot motion plan, and a motor (12) is driven according to the motor working plan. As a result, an alteration pattern of a driving velocity of an endless belt (11) can be controlled according to an alteration pattern of a moving velocity of a robot (2) whose locomotive performance is being tested on the endless belt (11). Moreover, a motion tempo of the endless belt (11) and a motion tempo of the robot (2) are so harmonized that the former tempo may approach the latter tempo, and the locomotive performance of the robot (2) can be stably tested in that state.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 2, 2007
    Publication date: January 7, 2010
    Applicant: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Kenro Udono
  • Publication number: 20100004635
    Abstract: An implantable glaucoma drainage device (GDD) system is disclosed. The GDD system comprises a microflow control system for controlling intraocular pressure, a protective capillary carrier tube housing the microflow control system, and anchoring arms holding the implanted device in place. The overall GDD size can be in a needle-implantable form factor for minimally invasive implantation. The GDD may be implanted via subconjunctival needle implantation to mimic the normal aqueous humor drainage pathway.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 1, 2009
    Publication date: January 7, 2010
    Inventors: Jeffrey Chun-Hui Lin, Po-Jui Chen, Yu-Chong Tai
  • Patent number: 7643957
    Abstract: Techniques for bisecting a symmetric, substantially transmissive two-port network (a THRU structure) through an optimization solution of the relevant equations defined by transmission matrix mathematics are described. Bisect de-embedding may be performed using a single substantially symmetric THRU structure, a first half of a first substantially symmetric THRU structure and a second half of a second substantially symmetric THRU structure, and by combining bisect de-embedding with conventionally known de-embedding techniques.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 9, 2005
    Date of Patent: January 5, 2010
    Assignee: Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research
    Inventor: Erik S. Daniel
  • Patent number: 7640802
    Abstract: A method of analysing tachometer and vibration response data from an apparatus having one or more rotary components is provided. The method comprises the steps of: providing vibration response data and corresponding tachometer data from the apparatus for a period over which a rotary component of the apparatus varies in rotational speed, the tachometer data being for that component; repeatedly performing at intervals throughout the period the sub-steps of: determining a forcing frequency of the component from the tachometer data and a corresponding vibration response frequency of the apparatus from the vibration response data, comparing the forcing and vibration response frequencies to determine the relative phase difference between the frequencies, and determining the corresponding amplitude of the vibration response from the vibration response data; and plotting the relative phase differences and vibration amplitudes on a polar diagram.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 8, 2004
    Date of Patent: January 5, 2010
    Assignee: Oxford Biosignals Limited
    Inventors: Dennis King, Ken Astley, Lionel Tarassenko, Paul Anuzis, Paul Hayton, Stephen King
  • Patent number: 7641864
    Abstract: A connector for a pressure vessel includes a connector assembly having a first plurality of contacts, and a receiver assembly configured to be positioned within a receiver aperture formed in a closure of the pressure vessel and having a second plurality of contacts. The receiver assembly is configured to receive the connector assembly and place each of the first plurality of contacts in electrical contact with a corresponding one of the second plurality of contacts. A seal is provided between the connector assembly and the wall of the pressure vessel, for substantially sealing the receiver aperture from pressure within the vessel. The connector assembly is configured to be coupled to a product carrier, and sensors positioned in the vessel are coupled via the connector assembly to a data acquisition unit. When the closure is lowered onto the vessel, the receiver assembly contacts the connector assembly coupled to the carrier, closing the electrical contacts connecting the sensors to the acquisition unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 22, 2005
    Date of Patent: January 5, 2010
    Assignee: Avure Technologies Incorporated
    Inventors: Olivier L. Tremoulet, Jr., David O. Monserud, Edmund Y. Ting
  • Publication number: 20090308153
    Abstract: The present invention discloses a method and system for testing a dryer, which applies to test a dryer outputting hot air from an outlet to fill a drying space and evaluate the drying efficiency of the dryer. In the method of the present invention, a test pattern is arranged inside the drying space of the dryer, and an initial water content is added to the surface of the test pattern; next, the dryer is turned on to output hot air to the drying space to begin the test; during the test, the test pattern is moved inside the drying space to have a displacement travel; then, a drying loss and a drying test time is obtained and used to calculate the drying efficiency of the dryer. Therefore, the present invention simulates the behavior of a subject in using a dryer to attain an accurate drying efficiency of the dryer.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 16, 2008
    Publication date: December 17, 2009
    Inventor: Che-Hua YANG
  • Publication number: 20090288504
    Abstract: A test head (10) for breathing mask testing includes a hard head part (12) formed of a hard material and includes a face side (18) and a soft face front (14) of a defined thickness applied to the face side (18) of the hard head part (12). The soft face front (14) has a simulated human face surface defining a mask seal contact surface (22). A breathing mask testing system is also provided including the testing head (10) including a human face surface defining a mask seal contact surface (18) and a mouth opening connected to a respiration tube (50). A testing device (32) is provided with a test head adapter (30) protruding from the testing device (32). The hard head part (12) has a support portion (29) with an adapter interface for the adapter (30). The adapter interface includes a rotational position fixing mechanism for fixing the hard head part (10) to the adapter (30) in one of a plurality of rotational positions.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 23, 2008
    Publication date: November 26, 2009
    Applicant: DRAGER SAFETY AG & CO. KGAA
    Inventors: Roland EIWEN, Bjorn EHLER
  • Patent number: 7621193
    Abstract: A sensor device for monitoring and testing the integrity of structural elements is disclosed. A frangible membrane including a thin breakable conductor sense loop is bonded to a structural element to be tested. A fracture in the bonded structural element induces a disruption in the both the frangible membrane and the thin breakable conductor sense loop. Measured electrical property change of the disrupted conductor sense loop reveals the fracture in the structural element. Connection to the sensor device may be through a connector or using a wireless reader which remotely energizes the sensor device. The sensor may also be implemented as a gasket and/or employ weep holes to the breakable conductor to reveal possible corrosion as well.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 16, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 24, 2009
    Assignee: The Boeing Company
    Inventors: Matthew K. Fay, Gregory L. Sheffield
  • Patent number: 7617744
    Abstract: A transmission for torque transfer with axial compliance and a test machine employing the transmission has a flexible connector that provides high torsional stiffness and high axial compliance while inducing no frictional forces. The transmission includes an axial portion allowed to translate freely along its axis due to a high axial compliance of the transmission while the transmission simultaneously facilitates rigid torque transfer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 13, 2006
    Date of Patent: November 17, 2009
    Assignee: MTS Systems Corporation
    Inventors: Bradley D. Schulz, Paul J. Leska, Sr., Dennis J. Willis, Harold F. Fahrendorff
  • Publication number: 20090277289
    Abstract: There is described a method for monitoring a drive device for a defective sensor signal from a first sensor of the drive device and to a monitoring device which is suitable for this purpose. Although sensors operate reliably, sensor errors which may give rise to significant damage if they are not detected may arise. Monitoring the sensor makes it possible to increase the reliability of the drive device. The sensor signal from the first sensor is compared with a sensor signal from a second sensor in such a manner that the first sensor is monitored. In this case, the monitoring device is intended, in particular, for a sensor having a sensor disc.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 16, 2006
    Publication date: November 12, 2009
    Applicant: SIEMENS AKTIENGESELLSCHAFT
    Inventor: Günter Schwesig
  • Publication number: 20090266183
    Abstract: A duct detector housing includes a housing cover and a housing body defining a midline between the center of a detector and a printed circuit board within said body. Gas inlet and outlets are off axis of the midline to allow water that collects in conventional housing to drain from the housing. A maintenance mode button associated with a duct detector housing cover that is secured to a housing body of the housing provides a preselected time period during which removal of the cover is independent of a cover removal alarm. A printed circuit board within the housing has dedicated terminal blocks providing grouped connections with each of the groups segregated from another. An improved duct detector terminal has a hole in the terminal adapted to receive a test meter probe therethrough to provide an electrical contact between the wire.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 25, 2008
    Publication date: October 29, 2009
    Inventors: David L. Hall, Peter Stouffer, James E. Ludwig
  • Patent number: 7605718
    Abstract: A device that fits inside a transport pod communicating with the slots of the transport pod so that the device can be inserted and removed from the transport pod. The transport pods are for silicon wafers. The device has sensors that monitor the environment within the transport pod. Depending on the device's size, silicon wafers may be able to accompany the device so that the device can monitor the precise environment the silicon wafers are exposed to while inside the transport pod. The device may also be placed in a transport pod and run through the manufacturing process as one transport pod in a series. The results on the environmental monitoring can be used for alarms and monitoring or data logging to improve the yield of the silicon wafers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 11, 2005
    Date of Patent: October 20, 2009
    Assignee: Lighthouse Worldwide Solutions, Inc.
    Inventors: Paul Newman, Rocco D. Pochy, Morgan Polen, Scott H. Salton, Thomas C. Saunders
  • Patent number: 7603921
    Abstract: Device for fastening a sensor on containers with a flexible container wall, in particular mixing bags, comprising a sensor support which is fitted with a sensor, bears against an inner wall of the container wall at least with a rear subsurface averted from the sensor, and is guided with a central piece through an opening in the container wall in which the sensor support is fixed on the container wall by a clamping part which can be connected to the central piece, in which the container wall is clamped between the rear subsurface of the sensor support and on a bearing surface, facing an outer wall of the container, of the clamping part, and in which the rear subsurface bears sealingly against the inner wall of the container wall. The sensor support can also have an electronic or optical transmit unit which is connected to the sensor, in which case the transmit unit communicates in a wireless fashion with a receive unit arranged outside the container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 20, 2006
    Date of Patent: October 20, 2009
    Assignee: Sartorius Stedim Biotech GmbH
    Inventors: Reinhard Baumfalk, Oscar-Werner Reif
  • Publication number: 20090241701
    Abstract: A testing apparatus (100) for testing a touch screen used in an electronic device is described. The testing apparatus includes a base (20), a testing device (13), a holding mechanism (10), and a control module (12). The testing device includes a testing platform (131) carrying the touch screen, a positioning board (133) and testing members (135) positioned on the positioning board. The holding mechanism is operatable to hold the touch screen on the testing platform during the testing members testing the touch screen. The control module can control the testing members to test the touch screen.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 23, 2008
    Publication date: October 1, 2009
    Applicant: CHI MEI COMMUNICATION SYSTEMS, INC.
    Inventor: CHIANG-FU PAN
  • Patent number: 7596425
    Abstract: A substrate is supported by planes of four substrate supporters arranged on the top surface of a transport arm. Three ultrasonic distance measuring sensors are fixed on a fixing base arranged above the substrate. The three ultrasonic distance measuring sensors are arranged to measure the distances to the top surface of the substrate in the vicinity of its periphery. In this case, the ultrasonic distance measuring sensors are positioned so that measurement values of the ultrasonic distance measuring sensors may become equal to each other with the substrate being normally supported. The ultrasonic distance measuring sensors each measure the distances to the top surface of the substrate to supply the measurement values to a controller.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 2, 2004
    Date of Patent: September 29, 2009
    Assignee: Dainippon Screen Mfg. Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Fuminori Asa
  • Publication number: 20090235734
    Abstract: There is provided a fibrous particle generating apparatus and a test system. The fibrous particle generating apparatus includes a base material containing a fibrous material; a holding unit holding the base material; a fibrous particle generator generating fibrous particles by chafing the base material; and a movement unit moving the holding unit such that the base material held by holding unit is chafed against the fibrous particle generator. With this configuration, fibrous particles can be stably generated, and an evaluation of the object apparatus can be carried out on the basis of the generated fibrous particles.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 21, 2008
    Publication date: September 24, 2009
    Applicant: Fujitsu Limited
    Inventors: Hiroshi MUTO, Shouji Hattori, Shinichirou Kouno
  • Patent number: 7591199
    Abstract: An apparatus for measuring particles generated from a medical device includes a platform configured for retaining at least one medical device and at least one simulated body lumen tubing. The platform includes: a medical device receptacle dimensioned to retain a medical device; a pretest receptacle dimensioned to retain pretest tubing; and a test receptacle dimensioned to retain test tubing. The apparatus can be used for measuring particles generated from a medical device during a simulated clinical application by the following: introducing the medical device into the test tubing; causing fluid to flow through the pretest tubing, past the medical device, and through the test tubing; and counting the particles in the fluid downstream from the medical device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 5, 2007
    Date of Patent: September 22, 2009
    Assignee: Abbott Laboratories
    Inventors: Lisa Weldon, Greg Hyde, Ellen Roche, Maithili Shrivastava
  • Patent number: 7591198
    Abstract: An apparatus for measuring particles generated from a medical device during a simulated clinical application includes a platform configured for retaining at least one medical device and at least one simulated body lumen tubing. The platform includes the following: a medical device receptacle dimensioned to retain the at least one medical device; a pretest receptacle dimensioned to retain pretest tubing; and a test receptacle dimensioned to retain test tubing, said test receptacle having at least one substantially straight portion configured for straightening said test tubing when disposed therein and at least one tortuous portion configured for bending said test tubing into a tortuous pathway when disposed therein. Additionally, the platform includes a junction that interconnects the medical device receptacle, pretest receptacle, and test receptacle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 5, 2007
    Date of Patent: September 22, 2009
    Assignee: Abbott Laboratories
    Inventors: Lisa Weldon, Greg Hyde, Ellen Roche, Maithili Shrivastava