Testing Of Apparatus Patents (Class 73/865.9)
  • Patent number: 7587926
    Abstract: An apparatus (10) for testing detectors has a cup or chamber (30) supported within a mid-cap (40) by a support ring (50). An adjustable cap (70) attaches at one end to a mid-cap (40) and at the other end to a step-adjust cap (80) via bayonet mounting. A handle (60) is pivotally connected to pivot pins (46) located on the mid-cap (40). An external ring (200) attaches to the distal rim (34) of the chamber (30) and has legs (202) for covering notches (35) formed in the chamber (30). An identifier reader or receiver/PDAs (500,516) is used in the system to communicate with the detector to identify the detector and/or transmit the test results to a central location.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 12, 2007
    Date of Patent: September 15, 2009
    Assignee: HSI Fire & Safety Group, LLC
    Inventor: Jack Ackerman
  • Patent number: 7587835
    Abstract: A device for examination of the straightness of diagnostic and therapeutic needles (11), of the kind which are, with a high grade of accuracy, adapted for selection of samples from, injection of therapeutic preparations into or mounting at target areas positioned deep in tissue. The device has a support (1) in which a needle (11) to be examined is rotatably mountable by means of at least one holding fixture (6), such that the needle being rotatable in the support for allowing examination of the needle in all directions. Also, a method for performing such an examination.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 18, 2006
    Date of Patent: September 15, 2009
    Assignee: Elekta AB (Publ)
    Inventor: Marianne Plantz
  • Patent number: 7587929
    Abstract: A Joint Combined Aircrew Systems Tester (JCAST) that can be used to test aircrew integrated life support equipment currently authorized for use by aircrew members of the Air Force, Navy and Army. The JCAST will be capable of Chemical/Biological seal testing of all the Joint Service Aircrew Mask (JSAM) variants including the Type 2 JSAM for high performance aircraft. Like traditional Testers, the JCAST is capable of Performance and Fit Testing of masks at pressure levels, including COMBAT EDGE (Combined Advanced Technology Enhanced Design ā€œGā€ Ensemble), consistent with aircraft supply levels. The JCAST provides an apparatus and technique for accurately measuring a leak rate for an elastic body such as a chemical mask at 0.5 sccm at 6 IWG. The JCAST is portable and light weight while providing novel leak testing using pressure decay.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 11, 2006
    Date of Patent: September 15, 2009
    Assignee: Scot Incorporated
    Inventors: David Edward Zielinski, Timothy Robert Schmidt, Douglas Wayne Eaton
  • Publication number: 20090211381
    Abstract: A health and usage monitoring system for use in monitoring health and usage of one or more components of a vehicle. In various embodiments, the present invention uses at least one roving wireless sensor that can be temporarily placed in a first position to monitor one or more components of the vehicle and then moved to another position to monitor one or more other components of the vehicle, thus reducing the total number of sensors used to monitor the vehicle. In some embodiments, a system according to the present invention may comprise at least one or more roving wireless sensors. Other embodiments may comprise one or more roving wireless sensors used in conjunction with one or more wired sensors. The present invention also provides similar embodiments for a method of monitoring the health and usage of one or more components of a vehicle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 27, 2008
    Publication date: August 27, 2009
    Inventors: Radoslaw Romuald Zakrzewski, Michael Anthony Lynch, Robert Zeliff, Eric Robert Bechhoefer
  • Publication number: 20090211382
    Abstract: An open delivery alarm testing apparatus has a first shaft and a spring-loaded activator. The first shaft has a proximal end and a distal end. The spring-loaded activator extends outwardly from the proximal end of the shaft produced. The spring-loaded activator is produced from an insulating material.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 27, 2009
    Publication date: August 27, 2009
    Applicant: HSI FIRE & SAFETY GROUP, LLC
    Inventor: Margaret A. Feiter
  • Publication number: 20090206334
    Abstract: A display substrate includes a gate wire, a data wire which crosses the gate wire, a display part, a dummy pixel part and a test part. The display part includes a pixel element electrically connected to the gate wire and the data wire, and the pixel element includes a display element. The dummy pixel part surrounds the display part to protect the pixel element from static electricity. The test part is formed adjacent to the display part and includes a test element having a test display element formed in a substantially same manner as the display element.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 17, 2008
    Publication date: August 20, 2009
    Applicant: SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Young-Soo YOON, Joon-Chul GOH, Chong-Chul CHAI
  • Publication number: 20090205448
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for checking gripping elements for containers may include a plurality of gripping elements for gripping a plurality of containers. Occupancy states of these gripping elements with containers are regularly detected and statistics regarding these occupancy states are formed. Based on these statistics, in particular a failure of individual gripping elements can be ascertained and can be output to the user in a targeted manner.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 18, 2009
    Publication date: August 20, 2009
    Applicant: KRONES AG
    Inventor: Volker Grimm
  • Patent number: 7577534
    Abstract: A method for assessing metal vapor arcing risk for a component is provided. The method comprises acquiring a current variable value associated with an operation of the component; comparing the current variable value with a threshold value for the variable; evaluating compared variable data to determine the metal vapor arcing risk in the component; and generating a risk assessment status for the component.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 21, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 18, 2009
    Assignee: The Boeing Company
    Inventors: Monika C. Hill, Henning W. Leidecker
  • Patent number: 7568516
    Abstract: A method and device, for a heat exchanger which is provided with gaskets, for assessing and detecting the risk of fluid leakage in the heat exchanger due to worn-out gaskets. In the heat exchanger, a heat transfer plate (5) with gasket (6) is provided with a pressure sensor (15) which monitors the pressure between the plate (5) and the gasket (6). A further sensor is adapted to the heat exchanger for monitoring the pressure of the fluid entering the heat exchanger.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 17, 2005
    Date of Patent: August 4, 2009
    Assignee: Alfa Laval Corporate AB
    Inventors: Jan-Ove Bergqvist, Magnus Svensson
  • Publication number: 20090183558
    Abstract: A vehicle camshaft/crankshaft sensor has a plastic terminal assembly defining a connector and a plastic housing and bracket assembly engaged with the terminal assembly and defining a plastic bracket. Various structures are disclosed for establishing one of plural discrete orientations between the bracket and the connector.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 22, 2008
    Publication date: July 23, 2009
    Inventors: Xin Houjie, Samuel Roland Palfenier, Luis A. Flores-Mena
  • Patent number: 7555933
    Abstract: A method for determining ends of runs in a vacuum concentrator includes operating the vacuum concentrator at a pressure set point, periodically inducing a pressure increase in the vacuum concentrator, and determining an end-of-run state from a pressure vs. time relationship. In one embodiment of the present invention, the pressure increase is induced by opening the vacuum concentrator to atmosphere, and the end-of-run state is determined by measuring the time required for the vacuum concentrator to return to the pressure set-point. In another embodiment of the invention, the pressure increase is induced by isolating the vacuum concentrator for a defined period of time, and the end-of-run state is determined by measuring the pressure increase over that period of time. The end-of-run state may be determined by comparing the measured value to a threshold value or by comparing a measured rate of change to a threshold rate of change.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 1, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 7, 2009
    Assignee: Thermo Fisher Scientific Inc.
    Inventor: Etienne Dano
  • Patent number: 7547852
    Abstract: A hydraulic scale for planter calibration is disclosed. The hydraulic scale includes a tube having indicia disposed thereon. The tube has a substantially closed bottom and a substantially open top. The indicia disposed on the tube include at least one scale having a zero line. The tube is configured to float substantially upright when positioned in a liquid, such that the zero line is substantially aligned with the surface of the liquid. A non-zero line portion of the scale is configured to align with the surface of the liquid when at least one of seeds and feed are placed within the tube.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 31, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 16, 2009
    Inventor: Maximo Sallovitz
  • Patent number: 7543513
    Abstract: A honeycomb structure mounting base includes a mounting member having a structure mounting surface configured to contact an entire end face of a honeycomb structure including a periphery of the honeycomb structure; a preliminary mounting member having a preliminary mounting surface configured to have the honeycomb structure placed thereon before placement of the honeycomb structure on the mounting member; and an elevating mechanism configured to move the preliminary mounting member up and down in relation to the mounting member. The preliminary mounting surface is parallel to the structure mounting surface. The preliminary mounting surface has a shape allowing an entire periphery of the preliminary mounting surface to exist inside a periphery of the end face of the honeycomb structure in a case of superimposing the preliminary mounting surface onto an end face of the honeycomb structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 4, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 9, 2009
    Assignee: Ibiden Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Hiroyuki Kobayashi, Junji Furuya
  • Publication number: 20090126518
    Abstract: A method and an apparatus for monitoring an evaporator (2), whereby a liquid is applied onto a heating unit (3) and evaporated and the temperature drop caused by the evaporation heat in the heating unit (3) is detected. In the absence of a predetermined temperature drop, a signal is generated. In this way, the evaporation process can be controlled in a simple manner.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 28, 2006
    Publication date: May 21, 2009
    Applicant: KRONES AG
    Inventors: Rupert Meinzinger, Manfred Ziegler
  • Patent number: 7526944
    Abstract: A wireless sensor network is installed inside pipelines using sensors and wireless transceivers that are small, low-cost, and rugged. The objective is monitoring the pipeline and recommending maintenance and repair at specific locations in the pipeline. Maintenance includes detection of internal corrosion using sensors that can result in leaks. Furthermore detection of leaks for prevention of catastrophic failures as a result of damage, such as third party mechanical damage. After establishing the wireless sensor network, the network is activated so the sensors can make measurements periodically or continuously using instructions transmitted via a base station. The sensor data from the various sensors are transmitted inside the pipe and extracted to access points in the pipeline to a remote computer that stores the data within the computer. The sensed information can be used for monitoring as well as analysis using a recommendation engine to provide maintenance and repair alerts.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 6, 2005
    Date of Patent: May 5, 2009
    Inventors: Ashok Sabata, Sean Brossia
  • Publication number: 20090108129
    Abstract: In a vehicle, having a fixed supporting structure and a load movable relative thereto, a jam tolerant actuating system, a method for controlling this system including: Locating a physical coupling/decoupling mechanism between the load and an actuator assembly as close a practicable to the load; constructing the coupling/uncoupling mechanism to be reversible, and hence testable; and controlling the connection/disconnection via decision making electronics which will detect any system failure by monitoring, at a minimum: actuator main motor load and speed, and actuator output load. Also set forth are specific embodiments of pivotable rotary geared actuators as well as linear ball screw type actuators embodying the coupling/uncoupling mechanisms of this invention.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 30, 2007
    Publication date: April 30, 2009
    Inventor: James E. Flatt
  • Patent number: 7520047
    Abstract: Apparatus for loading a read/write head to a spinstand has a load area for receiving at least one head to be tested. The apparatus further has a first station having a coarse precisor arranged to provide a coarse positioning of the head. A first automation device is arranged to pick a head from the load area and to deliver it to the coarse precisor. The apparatus has a deck having a test station at which a head can be tested. The deck has a fine precisor arranged to provide a second, fine positioning of the head. A second automation device is arranged to pick a head from the first station and deliver it to the fine precisor where the head can be subjected to a second, fine precising and to pick a head from the fine precisor and to deliver it to the test station.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 8, 2006
    Date of Patent: April 21, 2009
    Assignees: Xyratex Technology Limited, Seagate Technology LLC
    Inventors: Graham Collins, Michael Alan Miles
  • Patent number: 7520189
    Abstract: An inspection system is provided for inspecting a generator including a rotor and a stator substantially surrounding the rotor. The rotor has a first end with a first circumference, and a second end with a second circumference. The inspection system includes first and second retaining rings disposed at or about the first and second ends of the rotor, and first and second motion control modules movably coupled to the first and second retaining rings. The first and second motion control modules are interconnected and guide a carriage assembly therebetween in order to perform an operation on the generator. At least one of the first and second motion control modules is structured to receive the carriage assembly and to move around the corresponding first or second circumference of the generator rotor, in order to align the carriage assembly with stator slots of the stator of the generator.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 27, 2006
    Date of Patent: April 21, 2009
    Assignee: Siemens Energy, Inc.
    Inventors: Waheed A. Abbasi, Mark W. Fischer, Mark D. Guthrie, Joshua R. Miller
  • Patent number: 7520168
    Abstract: An assembly for testing a head gimbal assembly (HGA) comprises a support platform configured to hold a base plate of the HGA. A base plate of the HGA is mounted on the support platform. The assembly further comprises a channel with an opening adjacent to a tail of the HGA and a vacuum source connected the channel. The vacuum source creates a negative pressure in the channel to secure the tail of the HGA to the opening of the channel. Embodiments of the invention may be useful to inhibit vibration in the tail of an HGA, which may also reduce vibration in the head of the HGA. Reducing vibration in the head of the HGA may increase the accuracy and precision of tests performed on the HGA using the assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 8, 2006
    Date of Patent: April 21, 2009
    Assignee: Seagate Technology LLC
    Inventors: Klaus Obergfell, Steven Ernest Wheeler, Charles Newell Miller, Brett Robert Herdendorf, Ronald Eldon Anderson, Shawn Eric Fosness
  • Patent number: 7507296
    Abstract: In a scrubber adapted to clean a semiconductor wafer, the torque of a brush rotation motor is monitored while a scrubber brush is in contact with the wafer and is being rotated by the motor. The position of the brush relative to the wafer may be adjusted based on the monitored torque to regulate the pressure applied to the wafer by the brush. Open loop positioning or closed loop control may be employed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 1, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 24, 2009
    Assignee: Applied Materials, Inc.
    Inventors: Michael N. Sugarman, Vladimir Galburt
  • Publication number: 20090056479
    Abstract: To provide a motor-operated valve diagnosing device capable of making a highly accurate diagnosis at a low cost. In a motor-operated valve diagnosing device for diagnosing a motor-operated valve having a motor-operated valve having a valve element driving part for opening and closing a valve element, and a spring cartridge which expands and contracts in proportion to a reaction force exerted thereon from the valve element driving part, a spring compression mechanism or a worm displacement measuring means is configured to be attached to the valve element driving part via an adapter. With this configuration, the spring compression mechanism and so on can be easily attached to and removed from the valve element driving part.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 3, 2006
    Publication date: March 5, 2009
    Inventors: Takeki Nogami, Shigeya Yamaguchi
  • Patent number: 7497137
    Abstract: In a method for monitoring and/or determining the condition of a force-measuring device with at least one housing that has an interior space and with at least one force-measuring cell installed in the interior space of the at least one housing, at least one parameter of the atmospheric climate of the interior space is measured with at least one sensor that is arranged in the interior space of the housing or with at least one sensor that is arranged at the housing, wherein said parameter is of a kind that has an influence on the operating lifetime of the force-measuring cell; and a sensor signal corresponding to the measured parameter of the atmospheric climate of the interior space is transmitted to a computing unit and/or to a data output device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 14, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 3, 2009
    Assignee: Mettler-Toledo AG
    Inventors: Jean-Maurice Tellenbach, Daniel Aepli, Helmut BƤumel
  • Patent number: 7499772
    Abstract: A system for the nondestructive evaluation of aircraft comprising a plurality of positional transmitters forming a perimeter around a test airplane and an inspection station within the perimeter. The inspection station includes a moveable cart, a nondestructive testing device coupled the cart, and a computer coupled to the cart and nondestructive testing device. The computer configured to receive aircraft positional data from positional receivers mounted on an aircraft and overlay a model of the aircraft on the received aircraft positional data to determine a coordinate system for the aircraft. The computer is further operable to determine the location of the cart from data received from onboard positional receivers, the location of the cart referenced to the coordinate system for the aircraft.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 31, 2005
    Date of Patent: March 3, 2009
    Assignee: Honeywell International Inc.
    Inventors: David E. Wilcox, Paul Michael Jones, Timothy R. Duffy
  • Publication number: 20090045254
    Abstract: There is described a device for the control and surveillance to check the regularity of the operation of automatic payment terminals, specifically automatic terminals employing payment card readers of the contact-type.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 22, 2007
    Publication date: February 19, 2009
    Inventor: Giovanni Carapelli
  • Patent number: 7490782
    Abstract: A system for actuating a spray pump assembly comprises a reference platform, a motor, a drive transmission, a spray pump holder, a force coupler, a force transducer, and a system controller. The motor receives a power and control input, and produces a rotary drive output. The drive transmission receives the rotary drive output and produces a linear drive output. The spray pump holder secures the spray pump assembly. The force coupler couples the linear drive output to the spray pump, and applies a force to the spray pump. The force transducer produces a force signal proportional to the force applied to the spray pump. The system controller receives a set of test inputs and provides the control input to the motor as a function of the set of test inputs. The system actuates the spray pump mechanism according to an actuation profile defined by the set of test inputs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 29, 2005
    Date of Patent: February 17, 2009
    Assignee: Proveris Scientific Corporation
    Inventors: Dino J. Farina, Timothy M. Fallon, Socratis Kalogrianitis, Peter Taylor
  • Publication number: 20090038420
    Abstract: A rack system and method are provided for processing manufactured products prior to shipment. To simulate reality, the design of such rack system and method contemplates replicating field conditions for use of the manufactured products. A rack system for processing units of manufactured products may comprise one or more plates coupled to a frame. A preferred approach includes designing the rack for use by an operator without specialized skills. This approach includes verifying that there is a match between the configuration of the unit mounted on the plate and the operating mode of the plate before processing can commence. The rack may include a detector for obtaining data from the plate and unit and a processor for comparing the obtained data to determine whether there is a match. A rack system designed using this approach can be useful in processing outdoor units of a split-mount system such as a microwave radio system.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 9, 2007
    Publication date: February 12, 2009
    Applicant: Harris Stratex Networks Operating Corporation
    Inventors: Kesavan Srikumar, John Chung
  • Publication number: 20090025490
    Abstract: Two transducers to be rotated around a circumferential location on a cylindrical body for structural testing of the body are carried on a mounting and drive apparatus including a magnetic attachment which can be manually brought up to a pipe from one side only for fixed connection to the pipe on that side at a position axially spaced from a weld. A collar shaped support for the pair of transducers is formed of a row of separate segments which wrap around the pipe from the one side and is rotated around the axis of the pipe to carry the transducer around the circumferential weld. The segments carry rollers to roll on the surface and are held against the pipe by magnets. The transducers are carried on the support in fixed angular position to track their position but in a manner which allows slight axial or radial movement relative to the pipe.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 25, 2007
    Publication date: January 29, 2009
    Inventor: Randel Brandstrom
  • Patent number: 7478570
    Abstract: An improved maintenance, inspection, and/or measurement solution is provided. An embodiment of the invention includes a handheld measurement device for measuring an object, such as a railway wheel on a train. The handheld measurement device can comprise a single unit to provide one handed operation and can include various features, such as onboard evaluation, a graphical user interface, and/or a self-health monitor. Additionally, aspects of the invention provide an inspection environment that incorporates preliminary measurement data, wireless communications, and/or historical data into the measurement and evaluation process.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 28, 2006
    Date of Patent: January 20, 2009
    Assignee: International Electronic Machines Corp.
    Inventors: Zahid F. Mian, Jeremy C. Mullaney, Robert MacAllister, William Peabody
  • Patent number: 7479391
    Abstract: A pipetting apparatus (1) comprises a fluidic space (7), to which a pressure transducer (11) with a pressure sensor (12) is attached with a gas filled space (15). The fluidic space (7) is defined by a pipette tip (2), a first tubing (5) that connects the pipette tip (2) to a pump (4), and an active part (6) of the pump (4). The pipetting apparatus (1) according to the present invention is characterized in that the pipetting apparatus (1) further comprises an impulse generating means (16, 18, 19) that is in operative contact with a column (10) of system liquid (8) inside the fluidic space (7). The impulse generating means (16, 18, 19) is designed to induce a vertical movement in this system liquid column (10), which results in a pressure variation in the gas filled space (15) that is pneumatically connected with the fluidic space (7).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 10, 2004
    Date of Patent: January 20, 2009
    Assignee: Tecan Trading AG
    Inventors: Torleif Ove Bjornson, Robert Liebhard, Adi Zuppiger, Dirk Heerklotz
  • Publication number: 20080314170
    Abstract: The disclosure relates to a method for testing the functionality of armatures, e.g., of safety armatures, in process control systems which are assigned a test device for implementing partial stroke testing and which are connected to a control device, which brings about actuation, in accordance with regulations, of the safety armature in an emergency. Prior to the start of the implementation of the partial stroke testing, a request signal is transmitted from the test device to the control device which is answered by the control device with an enable signal, the enable signal being issued as a function of the current process sequence at the armature.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 24, 2008
    Publication date: December 25, 2008
    Applicant: ABB AG
    Inventors: Thomas KLEEGREWE, Andreas Stelter, Martin Dahl, Andreas Wahlmann, Heiko Kresse
  • Publication number: 20080314169
    Abstract: A system for testing a mechanical input device of a wireless telecommunication device is provided, where the system comprises a pressure air regulator comprising: a receive unit comprising an inlet aperture and a first contact surface with at least one exit aperture connected to the inlet aperture; a distribution unit rotatably pivoted relative to the receive unit, the distribution unit comprising a second contact surface, which contacts the first contact surface and comprises at least two entrance apertures located at a rotational trajectory of the at least one exit aperture. The distribution unit further comprises at least two distribution apertures, each connected to an entrance aperture, thus providing pressure air when the entrance aperture overlaps with the exit aperture.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 28, 2005
    Publication date: December 25, 2008
    Applicant: JOT AUTOMATION OY
    Inventors: Tuomo Mammila, Mika Piirainen, Mika Kellokoski
  • Publication number: 20080295621
    Abstract: A system and method are disclosed for using a test slider to test the resonance performance of a head gimbal assembly. The test slider has a two-stripe air-bearing surface to allow the test slider to glide above a surface and a block with a mass equal to the combined mass of the electrical slider and the micro-actuator. The leading edge of the slider is tapered and has a main air groove to facilitate gliding. A back step on the side of the test slider opposite the air bearing surface maintains a parallel gap between the slider and the suspension tongue of the head gimbal assembly.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 27, 2008
    Publication date: December 4, 2008
    Applicant: SAE MAGNETICS (H.K.) LTD.
    Inventors: Ming Gao Yao, Masashi Shiraishi
  • Patent number: 7458253
    Abstract: In a method for evaluating a fixing member to fix a toner having a surface layer, a hardness test is carried out by applying a pressure deformation from the surface side of the fixing member, and when a deformation of the surface layer by the pressure deformation is within an elastic range, the fixing member is regarded as a standard product.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 1, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 2, 2008
    Assignee: Ricoh Company, Ltd.
    Inventors: Norihiko Aze, Kyoichi Ashikawa, Kohji Kamiya, Minoru Matsuo, Takayuki Yoshii, Nozomu Takahata
  • Patent number: 7458928
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for a centrifuge energy management system prevents the energy level of a rotor from exceeding a predetermined containment limit for the centrifuge by monitoring the energy level and either terminating a run operation of the centrifuge if it surpasses the containment limit or reducing the rotational speed of the rotor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 20, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 2, 2008
    Assignee: Kendro Laboratory Products, LP
    Inventors: David M. Carson, Vijay Mehta, Harvey Schneider
  • Publication number: 20080282817
    Abstract: Arrangement and method for monitoring a structure at a fixed location, e.g., a house, parked boat or parked airplane, includes a monitoring or sensor system arranged to obtain information about the structure, an exterior of the structure and/or an interior of the structure different than the location of the structure, and a communication system coupled to the sensor system and being provided with a location of the structure. The communication system transmits the information about the structure obtained by the sensor system and the location of the structure to a remote facility. The remote facility can therefore monitor the structure, and take steps to ensure the integrity of the reservoir and the fluid therein. To enable wireless and powerless monitoring, a power source independent of a power grid extending outside of the fixed structure may be provided to supply power to the sensor system and the communications unit.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 26, 2007
    Publication date: November 20, 2008
    Applicant: INTELLIGENT TECHNOLOGIES INTERNATIONAL, INC.
    Inventor: David S. Breed
  • Publication number: 20080271547
    Abstract: The invention relates to a test lever system (1) for monitoring the traction behavior of a transport system (2), particularly an elevator system, comprising a test lever (8) which consists of a load arm (14) and a force arm (13). A discharge in the form of a monitoring force is introduced by means of the test lever (8), via a carrier cable securing device, into a cable which is to be tested.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 14, 2005
    Publication date: November 6, 2008
    Inventors: Hans Ryser, Martin Fiedler
  • Patent number: 7444892
    Abstract: A Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) belt inspection device comprising a detection section for a running track and a determination section for distinguishing at least whether the cause of that running track is a substance attributable to an impurity, such as metal powder, etc. or an object attributable to an irregular-shaped area based on the periodicity of that running track. Particularly, when the cause of a running track is determined to be a substance attributable to an innocuous impurity, such as metal powder, etc., unnecessary part replacements can be avoided and a significant cost reduction achieved.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 1, 2005
    Date of Patent: November 4, 2008
    Assignee: Jatco Ltd.
    Inventors: Hiroaki Kuroda, Eiichiro Muramatsu, Kazuhiro Mizumiya, Makoto Momoi, Tomoo Kawagoshi, Masanori Taguchi
  • Patent number: 7441457
    Abstract: A fixing element, is designed on a fixing ring (2) for a sensor head (1) measuring speed of rotation or angle of rotation of a wheel in a motor vehicle. The sensor head (1) has a housing (11) made of plastic, and at least one housing foot (5) fixed to the fixing ring (2) by the fixing element. The fixing ring (2) serves for fixing the sensor head (1) to a further component, such as a wheel bearing. The fixing element is configured as a T-shaped, twistable lug (7) with a retaining piece (10). The lug extends through a continuous, mainly slot-shaped or long-hole-shaped cutout (6) of the housing foot (5).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 30, 2004
    Date of Patent: October 28, 2008
    Assignee: Siemens Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventor: Ralf Jaklin
  • Publication number: 20080257075
    Abstract: Disclosed are methods of determining how effective a product that dispenses an insect repellent or insecticide is in controlling flying insects such as mosquitoes, with no or reduced need for human test subjects. An insect trap or other automated monitoring device is positioned in a test environment and operated in a manner so as to mimic some human attribute (e.g. by dispensing carbon dioxide). Trap/monitoring results in the presence and absence of the operating product are obtained in order to judge relative effectiveness of the active. Further, the real time evaluation of insect populations permits evaluation of time needed to achieve base effectiveness and length of time that effectiveness can be sustained.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 18, 2008
    Publication date: October 23, 2008
    Inventors: Daniel T. Ropiak, Gopal P. Ananth, Joel E. Adair, Dirk K. Nickel, Sebastian D. Hasik
  • Publication number: 20080257076
    Abstract: A method for adapting a monitoring device of a control unit for a restraint system of a motor vehicle, having a redundant detection device and a triggering unit, having the method steps of: providing a first definable threshold value as a timing pattern for the monitoring device in a first operating range of the motor vehicle; detecting at least a second operating range of the motor vehicle by way of the redundant detection device at a first point in time; and transferring data from the redundant detection device to the monitoring device in order to adapt the monitoring device by utilizing at least one second definable threshold value in the second operating range of the motor vehicle, and an apparatus therefor.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 15, 2005
    Publication date: October 23, 2008
    Inventors: Markus Fislage, Ruediger Karner, Alexander Jansen, Christophe Kolb
  • Publication number: 20080251981
    Abstract: The invention relates to a torsional vibration damper with a flexible coupling (2), comprising at least one first coupling element (3) which can be connected to a driving element, at least one second coupling element (4) which can be connected to a power take-off in a rotationally fixed manner, said elements being at least indirectly coupled to each other via spring and/or damping coupling means (5). The damper also comprises a device (6) for detecting at least one variable that is at least indirectly characteristic of the mode of functioning and/or operation of the flexible coupling.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 5, 2006
    Publication date: October 16, 2008
    Applicant: VOITH TURBO GMBH & CO. KG
    Inventors: Olaf Greshake, Markus Becker
  • Publication number: 20080251137
    Abstract: The present invention generally provides methods and apparatus for monitoring performance of an injection valve. In one embodiment, a control signal relates to an actuator movement is monitored and correlated to performance of the injection valve.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 16, 2007
    Publication date: October 16, 2008
    Inventors: Khai Ngo, Son Nguyen, Ernesto Ulloa
  • Patent number: 7434670
    Abstract: A shroud support method and apparatus for a ceramic component of a gas turbine having: an outer shroud block having a coupling to a casing of the gas turbine; a spring mass damper attached to the outer shroud block and including a spring biased piston extending through said outer shroud block, wherein the spring mass damper applies a load to the ceramic component; and the ceramic component has a forward flange and an aft flange each attachable to the outer shroud block.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 16, 2006
    Date of Patent: October 14, 2008
    Assignee: General Electric Company
    Inventors: Randall Richard Good, Kevin Leon Bruce, Gregory Scot Corman, David Joseph Mitchell, Mark Stewart Schroder, Christopher Grace
  • Patent number: 7434485
    Abstract: A battery powered sensing device for diagnosing a processing system and method for using the same are provided. The support platform generally has physical characteristics, such as size, profile height, mass, flexibility and/or strength, substantially similar to those of the substrates that are to be processed in the processing system, so the sensor device can be transferred through the processing system in a manner similar to the manner in which production substrates are transferred through the processing system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 29, 2006
    Date of Patent: October 14, 2008
    Assignee: Applied Materials, Inc.
    Inventor: Reginald Hunter
  • Patent number: 7430932
    Abstract: The invention refers to remote monitoring of power objects and is designed for collecting data on OHTL conductor status and passing such to data collection point (dispatch point for example). The invention's objective is to exclude necessity to produce and maintain specialized technological applications for measuring conductor's attitude parameters and/or communication with measurements collection point, and thus improve reliability of the device operation as an autonomous element of system of monitoring of OHTL conductor status. The device contains a housing, equipped with a mean for attachment to OHTL conductor, and located therein power supply and measuring-transmitting module. Invention options provide for introduction into the measuring-transmitting module of interface with utility cellular telephony channel and/or Global Positioning System signals receiver identifying its three-dimensional coordinates.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 30, 2003
    Date of Patent: October 7, 2008
    Inventors: Boris Iosifovitch Mekhanoshin, Vladimir Aleksandrovitch Shkaptsov
  • Patent number: 7426855
    Abstract: A method and an apparatus for testing the adhesive strength of overlays attached to the inside of plain bearing bushings. The method is characterized in specifying clearance between the plain bearing bushing tested and a rotating or oscillating pin extending through the bushing. Next, feeding a liquid medium into the gap between the bushing and the pin and oscillating the plain bearing bushing and pin relative to one another perpendicularly to the bushing axis for a given period and examining the bushing after the load test. The corresponding apparatus comprises a pin mounted rotatably in a pin receptacle and on which there is arranged a first drive mechanism. In addition, a bushing receptacle is provided, in which the plain bearing bushing is fitted, wherein the pin is mounted with predetermined clearance in the bushing. The apparatus additionally comprises a mechanism for bringing about oscillating relative movement of bushing receptacle and pin receptacle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 16, 2006
    Date of Patent: September 23, 2008
    Assignee: Federal Megal Wiesbaden GmbH + Co. KG
    Inventors: Thomas Aubele, Gerhard Weil, Maik Wilhelm
  • Publication number: 20080219792
    Abstract: The present invention is disclosed for stabilizing a connection between the tool gripper and a driving shaft on a processing machine to prevent the vibration produced during the tool gripper being turning in a high speed from influencing the precision of the processing. In the method, firstly, an origin is positioned, and a distance between the bottom of the tool gripper and the bottom of the driving shaft is measured. Then, a standard length from the bottom of the tool gripper to the top of the rejecting portion is subtracted from the obtained distance for acquiring the distance of an interval between the bottom of the driving shaft and the top of the rejecting portion. Finally, for filling, a sleeve ring conforming to the interval between the driving shaft and the rejecting portion is mounted between the driving shaft and the rejecting portion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 7, 2007
    Publication date: September 11, 2008
    Inventor: Peter Chen
  • Publication number: 20080196519
    Abstract: An apparatus and method are provided for a plug connector sensing apparatus for determining whether a transmission line is present within a receptacle. A reprographic printing system including this apparatus is disclosed. The method of using this plug sensing apparatus comprises determining, with the plug connector sensor, whether the plug connector is present within the receptacle and determining, with a separate signal detector, whether a signal is being communicated through the transmission line.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 30, 2008
    Publication date: August 21, 2008
    Applicant: XEROX CORPORATION
    Inventors: David L. Salgado, Kimberly S. Stankey
  • Patent number: 7412760
    Abstract: A punch is provided with a detection system for evaluating crack defects in waste material removed during a clipping operation. The punch includes a clip ring and a clip insert for shearing excess material from a part processed therein. The excess material is engaged around the clip ring when sheared from the part. Frictional resistance between the waste material and the clip ring is evaluated in determining potential crack defects in the waste material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 16, 2005
    Date of Patent: August 19, 2008
    Assignee: Illinois Tool Works Inc.
    Inventors: Glenn G. Heavens, Brian Putetti
  • Patent number: 7412344
    Abstract: The present invention discloses a system for synchronously controlling the testing of pluralities of devices, comprising a server, a switch coupled to the server, and a testing instrument coupled to the server. Pluralities of computers are coupled to the server respectively, wherein the pluralities of devices are respectively connected to the pluralities of computers and the switch under testing. The parameters of the pluralities of devices include a first type test item that is testable by the pluralities of computers, and a second type test item that is testable by the testing instrument. The switch includes a RF switch. The server is connected to the testing instrument by a GPIB cable (or other instrument control interface and the server is connected to the pluralities of computers via local area network (LAN) such as Ethernet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 29, 2004
    Date of Patent: August 12, 2008
    Assignee: Arcadyan Technology Corporation
    Inventors: Chao-Tang Chang, Chi-Chang Wang