Specimen Model Or Analog Patents (Class 73/866.4)
  • Publication number: 20120013350
    Abstract: The invention relates to devices which exhibit some physical properties, namely thermal conductivity and electrical resistance of diamonds and their popular imitations, and method for manufacturing and usage of such device. These physical properties of gems are usually used by commercial gem testers for the purpose of distinguishing true diamonds from the fakes. The imitations are made of inexpensive metals, like brass and stainless steel, and conductive plastics, and can replace more costly diamonds and other gems, like moissanite, white sapphire, and others for the purpose of verification of correct operation of gem testing devices.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 16, 2010
    Publication date: January 19, 2012
    Inventors: Boris Z. Loginov, Leonid Radomyshelsky
  • Publication number: 20110303026
    Abstract: A testing system for testing a prosthetic valve. The system includes a housing having a main channel defines a circuitous flow path for a fluid. The solid housing also includes a chamber which in turn includes a piston having an opening at the bottom end. The piston moves in a reciprocating motion within the chamber. Further, a holding mechanism, for holding a prosthetic valve, is positioned within the main channel at either or both sides of the chamber, or within the opening in the piston. A user of the device may selectively control a flow path of the fluid between 1). having the fluid flow through the prosthetic valve installed in the piston, and 2). having no fluid passing though the piston.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 14, 2011
    Publication date: December 15, 2011
    Inventor: Shouyan Lee
  • Patent number: 8056427
    Abstract: An adjustable head tool (AHT) is configured for positioning a free motion headform (FMH) having a regulated FMH backoff requirement prior to an impact between the FMH and a target surface having a target point. The AHT has a built-in or a variable backoff angle relative to the position of the target point, and includes a cranial portion and an adjustable facial template. The cranial portion encloses a linkage assembly, and the facial template has one or more facial features. A rotary dial translates the facial template with respect to the cranial portion to maintain the regulated FMH backoff requirement. The cranial portion includes a forehead impact zone having a first set of demarcations, and the rotary dial has a second set of demarcations corresponding to the first set of demarcations. The dial is set so the second set of demarcations matches the first set during positioning of the AHT.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 12, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 15, 2011
    Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations LLC
    Inventors: Jenne-Tai Wang, Mark O. Neal, Peter J. Gareau, James E. Williamson, Alexander Millerman
  • Publication number: 20110252901
    Abstract: A method of simulating loading of an area on a workpiece in a production line type process. Also, a simulation press having a main body and an actuator attached thereto. The actuator is substantially aligned with the main body. A first plate is coupled to the main body and a second plate is coupled to the actuator. Both plates are adapted to engage a workpiece so as to simulate various modes of deformation of an area or areas on the workpiece when the second plate is moved relative to the first plate. The simulation press further includes a drive controller for controlling operation of the actuator. The drive controller additionally responds to feedback from at least one feedback sensor included with the simulation press.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 30, 2011
    Publication date: October 20, 2011
    Inventors: Stuart James Shelley, Richard Allan Roth, II, Allan Michael Burwinkel, Richard William Hamm, Larry Ray Gilliam, JR.
  • Publication number: 20110252900
    Abstract: The invention relates to a measurement apparatus for vacuum therapy system (60) for wound treatment, comprising an artificial wound unit (44) with a wall (43) that encloses an artificial wound cavity (45) open at least on one side, wherein passages for fluid are provided in the wall and can be supplied with a fluid via fluid delivery lines (46,80), and wherein the open side of the wound cavity (45) can be covered by a vacuum therapy system (60), wherein the vacuum therapy system (60) can apply a vacuum to the wound cavity (45) via a vacuum-generating device (90,92,100) of the measurement apparatus, and wherein a controllable heating device (39,40) is provided for regulating the temperature of the wound unit (44) and/or of the fluid.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 15, 2009
    Publication date: October 20, 2011
    Inventors: Axel Eckstein, Martin Junginger
  • Publication number: 20110218458
    Abstract: A system for tracking a femoral frame of reference in computer-assisted surgery comprises a sensor unit. The sensor unit is adapted to be secured to the femur. The sensor unit comprises accelerometer and gyroscope sensors that produce orientation data. A processing unit receives gyroscope and accelerometer data. The processing unit comprises a gyroscope-data calculator to provide calculated acceleration data resulting from movements of the femur, an accelerometer-data calculator to calculate measured acceleration data resulting from movements of the femur, and an acceleration comparator to relate an orientation of the sensor unit to the femur to define a femoral frame of reference. The femoral frame of reference is defined from the comparison between the calculated and the measured acceleration data. A sensor orientation interface provides orientation data for the femur from a tracking of the femoral frame of reference. A method for tracking a femoral frame of reference is also provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 26, 2010
    Publication date: September 8, 2011
    Inventors: Myriam Valin, Catherine Proulx, Louis-Philippe Amiot, Bruno Falardeau, Julie Deslongchamps
  • Patent number: 7988452
    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: Grant
    Filed: May 23, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 2, 2011
    Assignee: Dräger Safety AG & Co. KGaA
    Inventors: Roland Eiwen, Björn Ehler
  • Publication number: 20110167937
    Abstract: Apparatus for processes of checking anesthesia and ventilation devices, in the form of a test lung, comprising a lung sac (5), elastically deformable lobes (6, 7), an inlet nozzle (1) and adjustment means (8, 9, 10) for adjusting the simulation parameters. The test lung is in the form of a compact unit and permits the simulation of different lung types by adjustment of the lung parameters.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 22, 2011
    Publication date: July 14, 2011
    Applicant: IMTMEDICAL AG
    Inventor: Harri Friberg
  • Patent number: 7921741
    Abstract: Model human hands (902) for use in electromagnetic (e.g., microwave and RF) testing comprise a skeleton (1200, 104) of dielectric tubes (142, 148, 166, 170, 174, 178, 206, 208, 210, 1202, 1212, 1214, 1216, 1228, 1230, 1236, 1240, 1242, 194, 195, 196) inside a glove (908) that is filled with a fluid that has electrical properties that match that of a typical human hand at a particular frequency. According to certain embodiments the model hands comprise thumbs (193, 1236) that are located out of a plane of palms of the model hands. According to one embodiment the dielectric tubes are pivotally coupled to each other and biasing means (181,702) are provided to bias the hand into a gripping position so that the model human hand is able to grip different types of wireless communication devices (802) in different ways.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 15, 2004
    Date of Patent: April 12, 2011
    Assignee: Motorola Mobility, Inc.
    Inventors: Paul J. Moller, Boris M. Rubinstein
  • Publication number: 20110067508
    Abstract: Devices and methods are disclosed which relate to the calibration and quality assurance of motion tracking enabled radiation therapy machines. A phantom, capable of mimicking human breathing through inflation and deflation of the lungs, houses an independently moving target (tumor) that detects the amount of radiation received from the radiation therapy machine. This amount can be compared with a desired amount to determine if adjustment or repositioning is necessary. The servo-mechanism(s) of the motion tracking enabled radiation therapy machine(s) are adjusted in comparison of detected versus programmed motion of the respiring phantom having incorporated independently moving target that incorporated radiation dose detector(s). In the invention, motion tracking and irradiation mechanisms of the radiation therapy machine are adjusted to calibrate with reference to performance specifications of the radiation therapy machine.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 30, 2010
    Publication date: March 24, 2011
    Inventors: Chawalit Dan Krautim, Robert E. Wallace, Matthew Alderson
  • Patent number: 7891259
    Abstract: A human dummy system for evaluating the comfort of a seat comfort includes sensor units and a data processing unit. The sensor units are attached to the relevant joints of a human dummy, and detect the angles of the relevant joints. The data processing unit calculates information about relative locations of adjacent joints on the basis of the information about the angles of the relevant joints, and calculates the absolute location of a specific joint through coordinate system transformation between the information about relative locations and the joints of the human dummy.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 10, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 22, 2011
    Assignees: Hyundai Motor Company, Kia Motors Corp.
    Inventors: Seok Hwan Kim, Su Hwan Hwang, Kwang Noh Lee
  • Patent number: 7878080
    Abstract: An apparatus for adjusting a position of the vertebral column of a dummy model for estimating the feeling of sitting in a seat almost exactly mimics the characteristics of the vertebral joints of a human being. The apparatus comprises a pelvic plate; a plurality of lumbar joints, stacked on the pelvic plate so as to be spaced apart from each other, and having joint springs installed in front and rear portions thereof centered around a rotation center interconnecting two adjacent ones thereof; femur joints rotatably installed below the pelvic plate, and connected with one end of each femur bar; and pelvic pivoting members transmitting rotating force of the femur joints, which is caused by vertical pivoting of the femur bars, to the pelvic plate, and changing a vertical angle of the pelvic plate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 31, 2007
    Date of Patent: February 1, 2011
    Assignees: Hyundai Motor Company, Kia Motors Corporation
    Inventors: Su Hwan Hwang, Seok Hwan Kim, Hyung Yun Choi, In Bae Chang, Kyung Min Kim
  • Publication number: 20100294052
    Abstract: A hand phantom for evaluating a mobile apparatus disclosed wherein the hand phantom includes a thumb part, an index finger part, a middle finger part, a ring finger part and a pinky finger part, and in an XY coordinate system where for the mobile apparatus being held, an orientation of a thumb along a width direction of the mobile apparatus is defined as a +X direction, an orientation of a bottom edge of the mobile apparatus along a longitudinal axis of a body of the mobile apparatus is defined as a +Y direction, and a center of a pointing device array of the mobile apparatus is defined as a coordinate origin, the thumb part is arranged within a range of ±6.2 mm in the X direction and ±12.1 mm in the Y direction around a coordinate (X, Y)=(?1 mm, 7 mm) in the XY coordinate system.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 5, 2008
    Publication date: November 25, 2010
    Applicant: NTT DOCOMO, INC.
    Inventors: Daisuke Kurita, Yukihiko Okumura, Fumio Kira, Shin Nakamatsu
  • Patent number: 7802472
    Abstract: A probe assembly for an instrument of the type having a housing is disclosed. The probe assembly includes a body having an anchor end for attaching to the housing and a sensor end, wherein at least a portion of the body is formed of an elastically deformable material. The probe assembly also includes a sensor assembly at the sensor end with a protective cap that protects the sensor assembly from impact and permits the sensor assembly to be in direct contact with the environment surrounding the probe assembly. The probe assembly further includes a signal cable assembly having a connector for coupling the sensor assembly to the instrument. The probe assembly also includes a pliant plug for facilitating the coupling of the connector with the sensor assembly, wherein the flexible plug thermally insulates the sensor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 21, 2007
    Date of Patent: September 28, 2010
    Assignee: Fluke Corporation
    Inventors: Paul A. Richer, Brian Aikins
  • Publication number: 20100229663
    Abstract: An adjustable head tool (AHT) is configured for positioning a free motion headform (FMH) having a regulated FMH backoff requirement prior to an impact between the FMH and a target surface having a target point. The AHT has a built-in or a variable backoff angle relative to the position of the target point, and includes a cranial portion and an adjustable facial template. The cranial portion encloses a linkage assembly, and the facial template has one or more facial features. A rotary dial translates the facial template with respect to the cranial portion to maintain the regulated FMH backoff requirement. The cranial portion includes a forehead impact zone having a first set of demarcations, and the rotary dial has a second set of demarcations corresponding to the first set of demarcations. The dial is set so the second set of demarcations matches the first set during positioning of the AHT.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 12, 2009
    Publication date: September 16, 2010
    Applicant: GM GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS, INC.
    Inventors: Jenne-Tai Wang, Mark O. Neal, Peter J. Gareau, James E. Williamson, Alexander Millerman
  • Publication number: 20100210972
    Abstract: A method for measuring cartilage defects within a subject includes surgically exposing a joint or cartilage surface. The exposed joint or cartilage surface having at least one defect, and the method may generating a cast of the at least one defect. The method may also include measuring a parameter of the cast, thereby estimating a characteristic of the defect.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 16, 2010
    Publication date: August 19, 2010
    Applicant: Imaging Therapeutics, Inc.
    Inventor: Rene Vargas-Voracek
  • Publication number: 20100180702
    Abstract: Solving Means A whole-body phantom A characterized by being obtained from a conductive rubber material comprising a rubber base and a conductive filler incorporated therein by molding the rubber material so as to copy the whole shape of a human body; and a process for producing a whole-body phantom, characterized by using a mold which conforms to the shape of a human body and is made of a fiber-reinforced plastic. Effect The whole-body phantom enables, with satisfactory handling, an examination of, e.g., influences of electromagnetic waves on the human body in various poses. The process for whole-body phantom production is suitable for use in producing such whole-body phantom.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 23, 2007
    Publication date: July 22, 2010
    Inventors: Yuji Koyamashita, Yoshikatsu Arai
  • Patent number: 7712387
    Abstract: A pelvis assembly for a dummy includes a pelvic plate attached to a lumbar region of the dummy, and one of more pelvic units, attached to the pelvic plate to transmit motion from a femur bar of the dummy to the plate. Each pelvic unit includes a hip joint, attached to the femur bar; a rotary axle, a first end of which is attached to the hip joint, and which is disposed laterally, to rotate together with the hip joint when the femur bar pivots vertically; and one or more pelvic angle adjusters, installed near a second end of the rotary axle, to transmit rotation of the rotary axle to the pelvic plate, thereby changing a vertical angle of the pelvic plate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 28, 2007
    Date of Patent: May 11, 2010
    Assignee: Hyundai Motor Company
    Inventors: Su Hwan Hwang, Seok Hwan Kim, Hyung Yun Choi, In Bae Chang, Kyung Min Kim
  • Patent number: 7669491
    Abstract: There is disclosed a current tank system comprising a first current tank adapted to produce a first current in a first direction; a second current tank adapted to rotate to produce a second current in a second direction; a sample adapted to be exposed to the first current and the second current.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 14, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 2, 2010
    Assignee: Shell Oil Company
    Inventors: Donald Wayne Allen, Dean Leroy Henning, Li Lee, David Wayne McMillan, Raghunath Gopal Menon, Christopher Steven West
  • Publication number: 20100049447
    Abstract: A method for simulating the behavior of an eye comprising the steps of (i) generating a FEM model of the eye representing the physical structure of the eye, the FEM model including an elastic walled corneo-scleral shell, (ii) modeling deformations of the eye with the FEM model, the deformation modeling including the simulated application of at least one external force to the FEM model, and (iv) obtaining FEM model solutions iteratively in an incremental fashion, whereby adjustable nodal pressure is introduced inside the corneo-scleral shell.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 21, 2009
    Publication date: February 25, 2010
    Inventors: Gholam Peyman, Eniko Todorov Enikov
  • Publication number: 20100004891
    Abstract: Embodiments provide systems and methods for analyzing effects of cargo fire on primary aircraft structure. A thermal profile of a suppressed fire in a cargo compartment of an aircraft is developed. The thermal profile is applied to a heat transfer model of structure of an aircraft, and structural integrity of the modeled structure is analyzed. The thermal profile may be developed by introducing a fire in a physical model of a cargo compartment instrumented with temperature sensors and determining profiles of temperature versus time. A heat transfer model of aircraft structure is built, boundary conditions are input into the heat transfer model, and the model is run. When analysis of the modeled structure determined structural integrity to be insufficient to satisfy flight certification requirements, structural parameters are modified, the thermal profile is applied to a heat transfer model of the modified structure, and the analysis is repeated.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 7, 2006
    Publication date: January 7, 2010
    Inventors: Mark F. Ahlers, Mel Eshghi, Daniel F. Lewinski, Richard J. Mazzone
  • Publication number: 20090259426
    Abstract: In an arrangement comprising a supporting structure and a reproduction, arranged inside the supporting structure, of an aircraft passenger cabin on a 1:1 scale for receiving components of cabin systems, the invention consists in that the supporting structure is formed by a structure reproduction, composed of standardised elements, for receiving components of the cabin system and the cabin fittings and comprises standardised supports and connections in such a way that these components can be tested under operating conditions and at least one movable test module is provided which comprises multifunctional test rigs for operating and testing the cabin systems.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 12, 2008
    Publication date: October 15, 2009
    Inventor: Wolfgang Gleine
  • Patent number: 7597017
    Abstract: The present invention discloses locomotion simulator comprising a base having a surface movable along a base axis, a post mounted to the base a pelvic structure and a hip-thigh mechanism wherein coordinated displacement of the pelvic structure and pivoting of the thigh segment assembly simulates patterns of locomotion. The pelvic structure includes a first support movably mounted to the post, the first support allowing a displacement of the pelvic structure along a first pelvic axis generally perpendicular to the base axis and a second support movably mounted to the first support, the second support allowing a displacement of the pelvic structure along a second pelvic axis generally parallel to the base axis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 20, 2007
    Date of Patent: October 6, 2009
    Assignee: Victhom Human Bionics, Inc.
    Inventors: Stephane Bedard, Pierre Fecteau, Pierre-Olivier Roy
  • Patent number: 7597016
    Abstract: A method of using an exhaust flow simulation system to test the effects of exhaust system conditions on various materials. A typical exhaust flow simulator is a burner-based system, in which exhaust from burner combustion is exhausted through an exhaust line. A “test coupon” of the material may be placed at an appropriate location in the flow line, and tested to determine how it is affected by the exhaust resulting from various fuels and additives.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 3, 2006
    Date of Patent: October 6, 2009
    Assignee: Southwest Research Institute
    Inventors: Suzanne A. Timmons, Scott F. Timmons
  • Publication number: 20090173173
    Abstract: Systems and methods for evaluating medication delivery from valved holding chambers (VHCs) with a facemask using a model face of a child or a model face of an infant are disclosed. Generally, the model face includes a base, an elastomer cast, an air pocket, and a mouth opening. The elastomer cast is positioned on at least a portion of a top of the base. The elastomer simulates soft tissues in a face and defiens at least a nose, a chin, and a mouth sized to simulate a nose, a chin, and a mouth of a child. The air pocket is positioned between the base and the elastomer case below at least the nose, the chin, and the mouth of the elastomer cast. The mouth opening defines a passageway through the base, the air pocket, and the mouth of the elastomer cast.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 2, 2008
    Publication date: July 9, 2009
    Inventors: Myles Limbrick, Robert Morton, Mark Nagel, Jolyon Mitchell, Peter Gubbels, Kimberly Wiersema, Cathy Doyle, Valentina Avvakoumova
  • Publication number: 20090120308
    Abstract: A simulation press having a main body and an actuator attached thereto. The actuator is substantially aligned with the main body. A first plate is coupled to the main body and a second plate is coupled to the actuator. Both plates are adapted to engage a workpiece so as to simulate various modes of deformation of an area or areas on the workpiece when the second plate is moved relative to the first plate. The simulation press further includes a drive controller for controlling operation of the actuator. The drive controller additionally responds to feedback from at least one feedback sensor included with the simulation press.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 8, 2007
    Publication date: May 14, 2009
    Inventors: Stuart James Shelley, Richard Allan Roth, II, Allan Michael Burwinkel, Richad William Hamm, Larry Ray Gilliam, JR.
  • Patent number: 7516678
    Abstract: A model hand (120, 700) for use in electromagnetic testing comprising a body (210, 710) and at least one digit (220, 780) extending from a side of the body. For one embodiment, the body (210) has an outer semi-cylinder surface (230) with an arcuate shape and an inner semi-cylinder surface (240) following the arcuate shape of the outer semi-cylinder surface. A digit (220) is coupled at a base end (260) coupled to the side (250) of the cylindrical body (210) to permit pivotal motion of the digit relative to the cylindrical body. For another embodiment, the body (710) has a palm-like shape with four static digits (740-770) affixed at one end to the palm-shaped body. In addition to the four static digits (740-770), a dynamic digit (780) extends from the body (710) and couples to the body to permit pivotal motion of the digit relative to the body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 10, 2005
    Date of Patent: April 14, 2009
    Assignee: Motorola, Inc.
    Inventors: Paul J. Moller, Eric L. Krenz, Roger L. Scheer, Matthew Richard Brown, Michael S. Kramer
  • Publication number: 20090056481
    Abstract: A pelvis assembly for a dummy includes a pelvic plate attached to a lumbar region of the dummy, and one of more pelvic units, attached to the pelvic plate to transmit motion from a femur bar of the dummy to the plate. Each pelvic unit includes a hip joint, attached to the femur bar; a rotary axle, a first end of which is attached to the hip joint, and which is disposed laterally, to rotate together with the hip joint when the femur bar pivots vertically; and one or more pelvic angle adjusters, installed near a second end of the rotary axle, to transmit rotation of the rotary axle to the pelvic plate, thereby changing a vertical angle of the pelvic plate.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 28, 2007
    Publication date: March 5, 2009
    Inventors: Su Hwan Hwang, Seok Hwan Kim, Hyung Yun Choi, In Bae Chang, Kyung Min Kim
  • Patent number: 7493835
    Abstract: A newborn dummy used in a dynamic test comprises a head, a spine member including a neck member connected to the head, a trunk mounted on said spine member at a lower part of the neck member and provided so as to cover the spine member and spaced apart from the spine member. An abdomen pressure sensor is provided close to the spine member at a part corresponding to an abdomen in the trunk so as to be spaced apart from the trunk.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 20, 2006
    Date of Patent: February 24, 2009
    Assignee: Graco Children's Products Inc.
    Inventors: Kenzou Kassai, Sachiyo Suzuki
  • Publication number: 20090025492
    Abstract: An apparatus for adjusting a position of the vertebral column of a dummy model for estimating the feeling of sitting in a seat almost exactly mimics the characteristics of the vertebral joints of a human being. The apparatus comprises a pelvic plate; a plurality of lumbar joints, stacked on the pelvic plate so as to be spaced apart from each other, and having joint springs installed in front and rear portions thereof centered around a rotation center interconnecting two adjacent ones thereof; femur joints rotatably installed below the pelvic plate, and connected with one end of each femur bar; and pelvic pivoting members transmitting rotating force of the femur joints, which is caused by vertical pivoting of the femur bars, to the pelvic plate, and changing a vertical angle of the pelvic plate.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 31, 2007
    Publication date: January 29, 2009
    Inventors: Su Hwan Hwang, Seok Hwan Kim, Hyung Yun Choi, In Bae Chang, Kyung Min Kim
  • Publication number: 20090000392
    Abstract: A simulating circuit (2), for testing a transit-time flowmeter (1) according to an embodiment of the invention, comprises an interface circuit (20) connecting with the transit-time flowmeter. The interface circuit receives driving signals from the transit-time flowmeter and generates a trigger signal on a rising or falling edge of the driving signals. An oscillator (21) outputs a clock signal. A delay generator (221) generates a preset time delay. A Digital to Analog Converter (DAC, 25) retrieves preset digitalized waveform. The DAC is enabled by the oscillator on ending of the preset time delay and converts the preset digitalized waveform into analog waveform output. The analog waveform output is sent back to the transit-time flowmeter, and thus a transit time or and a waveform through flowing fluids is simulated.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 1, 2007
    Publication date: January 1, 2009
    Applicant: GENERAL ELECTRIC COMPANY
    Inventors: Hua Zhou, Yikang Gu, Thomas James Batzinger, Baoming Huang, Xiaolei Shirley Ao, Jeffrey Tilden
  • Patent number: 7462488
    Abstract: Tissue mimicking materials for elastography phantoms have elastic, ultrasound, and magnetic resonance characteristics that are characteristic of human soft tissues and well suited for the calibration and performance assessment of elastography imaging systems. In one embodiment, the material is formed from a base material containing an oil dispersed within a gel matrix and at least one inclusion formed from a gel. In another embodiment, the material is formed from a gel-forming material suffused throughout an open-cell reticulated mesh matrix.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 27, 2005
    Date of Patent: December 9, 2008
    Assignee: Wisconsin Alumni Research Foundation
    Inventors: Ernest L. Madsen, Gary R. Frank
  • Publication number: 20080289438
    Abstract: An embodiment of the invention is a soft tissue impact assessment device. The device includes a skin that is shaped or moldable to a human-like form. A positional force or pressure sensor within the skin measures force or pressure and location of impact or contact with the skin and provides data regarding the force or pressure and location of impact or contact with the skin. In preferred embodiments, the skin includes a top layer made of a material and thickness that simulates the protection provided by particular human skin to underlying tissue. A pressure or force sensor sheet closely contacts the top layer in a manner that avoids any substantial movement between the top layer and the pressure or force sensor sheet during a range of anticipated force or pressure conditions to be experienced by the human surrogate during testing. A lining layer is suitable to be in close contact with a surface of a human like form.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 21, 2008
    Publication date: November 27, 2008
    Inventor: Gina Bertocci
  • Publication number: 20080236308
    Abstract: A dummy body for testing of sitting, reclining and supporting cushions of upholstered sitting and reclining furniture, by means of which a complex interaction of various muscles can be simulated, true to reality, in a variable way, and which is distinguished by a cost-effective and simple construction. The worn parts can be replaced quickly and cost-effectively. The dummy body has a plurality of discs arranged adjustably next to one another and having different material properties in terms of the degree of hardness. Therefore, the muscle hardness of a dummy body to be simulated can be set variably according to a predetermined test program.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 28, 2007
    Publication date: October 2, 2008
    Inventors: Ingo Liebelt, Michael Schultz, Detlef Zottmann
  • Patent number: 7415903
    Abstract: The present invention provides a system and a method to enhance HYGE impact simulator sled testing, enabling more accurate measurements of lower leg injury criteria and providing a more accurate restraint system evaluation during a HYGE impact simulator test. The system provides the generation of both rotational and translational footwell intrusion, replicating an actual barrier crash impact test. The rotational and translational footwell intrusion includes foot motion; lower leg motion, including various forces and moments; and knee motion, including interaction with the instrument panel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 22, 2006
    Date of Patent: August 26, 2008
    Assignee: Chrysler LLC
    Inventors: Mark W. Crossman, Wahaj Ahmed, Roger A. DeWulf, Meraj Ahmed
  • Publication number: 20080148878
    Abstract: The present invention provides a system and a method to enhance HYGE impact simulator sled testing, enabling more accurate measurements of lower leg injury criteria and providing a more accurate restraint system evaluation during a HYGE impact simulator test. The system provides the generation of both rotational and translational footwell intrusion, replicating an actual barrier crash impact test. The rotational and translational footwell intrusion includes foot motion; lower leg motion, including various forces and moments; and knee motion, including interaction with the instrument panel.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 22, 2006
    Publication date: June 26, 2008
    Inventors: Mark W. Crossman, Wahaj Ahmed, Roger A. DeWulf, Meraj Ahmed
  • Publication number: 20080141796
    Abstract: Disclosed is an apparatus and method for generating a reproducible and quantitative evaluation of the sprayability characteristics of a liquid composition. The apparatus enables continuous controlled circulation of a liquid composition through one or more filter screens with measurement of the pressure drop profile across each filter screen resulting in performance patterns characteristic of sprayability parameters, which can include speed, completeness of dispersion, and stability of dispersion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 2, 2007
    Publication date: June 19, 2008
    Inventor: Lawrence Doka Gaultney
  • Publication number: 20080121052
    Abstract: The present invention takes place of solid oxide fuel cell (SOFC) in tests. Some tests among them are done to find ways to recycle exhausts of the SOFC. And, some other tests among them are done to evaluate benefits of re-burning the exhausts. All tests save cost and time.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 21, 2006
    Publication date: May 29, 2008
    Applicant: ATOMIC ENERGY COUNCIL-INSTITUTE OF NUCLEAR ENERGY RESEARCH
    Inventors: Dung-Di Yu, Yau-Pin Chyou, Hung-Yu Wang, Ruey-Yi Lee
  • Publication number: 20080121014
    Abstract: A sled carriage is configured to move in a direction of an axis and a track is attached with the sled carriage. A platform is attached with the track and a sled buck is attached with the platform. Upon acceleration of the sled carriage, the sled buck and platform move relative to the sled carriage.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 1, 2006
    Publication date: May 29, 2008
    Applicant: FORD MOTOR COMPANY
    Inventors: Weigang Chen, Michael Stiyer, Baohua Xiao, Robert MacFarland, Matthew Maltarich
  • Patent number: 7373851
    Abstract: A test simulator for image evaluation of x-ray systems has a flexible test phantom connected by a single connection tube with a single pump that fills and empties the test phantom with a medium. The test phantom thus contracts (as in a real heartbeat) for simulation of systole and subsequently expands for simulation of diastole. Due to the use of only one connection tube and only one pump for control, a simply designed test simulator is obtained since the pump both fills and empties the test phantom.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 29, 2005
    Date of Patent: May 20, 2008
    Assignee: Siemens Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventors: Alfred Faber, Robert Jorg, Andreas Melber, Thorsten Rombach
  • Publication number: 20080078235
    Abstract: Apparatus and method for simulating tracer interaction with living tissue. A chamber receives a fluid therein, and includes an inlet conduit for conducting the fluid into the chamber, an outlet conduit for conducting the fluid out of the chamber, a medium disposed within the chamber for modulating fluid flow, and a valve assembly for conducting the fluid into the inlet conduit. In some aspects, the fluid is a radiative tracer or a radiative washout fluid and the medium is configured to mimic a tissue, e.g., the heart, and portions thereof are capable of mimicking both normal and diseased tissues.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 21, 2006
    Publication date: April 3, 2008
    Inventors: A. Hans Vija, Johannes Zeintl
  • Patent number: 7347114
    Abstract: A design template includes a torso section being one of a group of a 95th percentile male, 50th percentile male and 5th female having each being one of a group of an ERECT posture, a NEUTRAL posture and a SLUMPED posture.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 21, 2005
    Date of Patent: March 25, 2008
    Assignee: The Board of Trustees Operating Michigan State University
    Inventors: Herbert M Reynolds, Robert Kerr, Raymond Brodeur, Khaldoun Rayes, Douglas Neal, Yuntao Cui
  • Publication number: 20080034902
    Abstract: A sled carriage is configured to move in a direction of an axis. A platform is attached with the sled carriage and a sled buck is attached with the platform. Upon acceleration of the sled carriage, the sled buck and platform move relative to the sled carriage.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 1, 2006
    Publication date: February 14, 2008
    Applicant: FORD MOTOR COMPANY
    Inventors: Weigang Chen, Baohua Xiao, James Cheng, Krishnakanth Aekbote, Michael Stiyer
  • Patent number: 7216557
    Abstract: A method and apparatus (40) for testing an occupant position sensing system (12) of a vehicle (10) includes a motor (42) having a stationary portion (44) and a movable portion (46). A test object (90) is fixed relative to the movable portion (46) of the motor (42). A motor position sensor (64) senses a position of the movable portion (46) of the motor (42) relative to the stationary portion (44) and for providing a motor position signal indicative thereof. Motor drive electronics (58) are responsive to the motor position signal for controlling the motor (42) for moving the test object (90). A data recorder (80) is adapted to receive and record data from the occupant position sensing system (12) and is adapted to receive and record the motor position signal provided by the motor position sensor (64).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 1, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 15, 2007
    Assignees: TRW Vehicle Safety Systems Inc., TRW Automotive U.S. LLC
    Inventors: Raymond J. David, Jon K. Wallace, Charles E. Steffens, Jr.
  • Patent number: 7204165
    Abstract: An anthropomorphic dummy head system is provided for measuring forces and moments applied to the back of the head and neck. The system includes a dummy head representing at least a portion of a human head and a force measuring device connected with the dummy head. The system also includes a skull cap attached to the force measuring device. The skull cap, representing a rear portion of a human head, may be free from direct attachment to the dummy head. The skull cap may further include a lower extension or nape extension configured to represent the back of a human neck.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 21, 2005
    Date of Patent: April 17, 2007
    Assignee: United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the Air Force
    Inventors: John A. Plaga, Gregory A. Thompson, Glenn Leroy Thomas
  • Patent number: 7159478
    Abstract: A test system is provided for simulating pre-tensioner systems that use pyrotechnic gas generators. In a preferred form, the test system includes a pneumatic cylinder energized by pressurized air from an accumulator and passing through a fast acting ball valve. A substantially linear relationship is established between accumulator pressure and the time rate of change of acceleration of a piston in the pneumatic cylinder. Use of the test system allows improved evaluation of seat belt systems employing pre-tensioners with pyrotechnic gas generators.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 14, 2004
    Date of Patent: January 9, 2007
    Assignee: Takata Seat Belts Inc.
    Inventors: Robert J. Schubert, Timothy A. Gandee, David G. Ransom
  • Patent number: 7107842
    Abstract: An angular rate sensing system suitable for a micromechanical flying insect (MFI) device. The system includes a rod, or haltere, that is moved in a plane by a piezoelectric actuator. Bending of the haltere due to angular movement of a body onto which the haltere is coupled is sensed with a resistive strain gage. In a first embodiment the haltere is actuated (i.e., made to beat or sweep) by simple coupling to an actuator. In a second embodiment, a four-bar structure is used to amplify the motion of a piezoelectric bender to cause haltere beating. Another embodiment achieves haltere beating by parasitic transmission of vibrations of the MFI body to the base of the haltere.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 3, 2004
    Date of Patent: September 19, 2006
    Assignee: The Regents of the University of California
    Inventors: Wei-Chung Wu, Robert Wood
  • Patent number: 7089817
    Abstract: A model (1) is obtained by dividing a golf ball into meshes. The model (1) comprises a large number of elements (3). An outermost layer of the model is wholly formed by fine elements (3a). The outermost layer is wholly formed by a fine element region. A number (Na) of divisions in the fine element region is larger than a number (Nb) of divisions on an inner layer in the fine element region. A ratio (Na/Nb) is 1.1 to 15.0. The fine element (3a) and an element (3b) on the inside of the fine element (3a) are tied to each other. A physical property value of the golf ball is analyzed by a finite element method using the model (1).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 22, 2003
    Date of Patent: August 15, 2006
    Assignee: SRI Sports Limited
    Inventors: Masaya Tsunoda, Masaki Shiraishi
  • Patent number: 7069797
    Abstract: A biofidelic lower leg surrogate includes a latex skin containing tissue simulating gelatin and a simulative bone assembly. The bone assembly is defined by a hollow, cylindrical, polymeric tibia body connected to an ankle piece in the shape of a section of a solid cylinder; a pair of heel blocks bonded to each other and to the ankle piece with a triangular bottom opening therebetween defining an arch; a nylon tendon strip mounted in grooves in the bottom of the heel blocks; and a heel pad extending across the bottom of the blocks.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 27, 2003
    Date of Patent: July 4, 2006
    Assignee: Her Majesty the Queen as represented by the Minister of National Defence of Her Majesty's Canadian Government
    Inventors: Kevin Williams, Daniel Bourget, Duane Cronin, Denis Bergeron, Christopher Salisbury
  • Patent number: 7063942
    Abstract: A system for hemodynamic simulation comprises a vessel having properties of a blood vessel, a reservoir containing a quantity of fluid, tubing connecting the vessel and reservoir, and at least one pump for circulating the fluid within the system. Fluid can be tissue culture medium or blood analog fluid, and the vessel may include mammalian cells attached to its inside. A drive system, comprising two reciprocating drive shafts that are coupled by a cam, enables the uncoupling of pulsatile flow and pulsatile pressure to provide independent control over wall shear stress and circumferential strain. The shaft drives two pumps that are 180 degrees out-of-phase and are connected upstream and downstream of the vessel, and effect this uncoupling.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 9, 2001
    Date of Patent: June 20, 2006
    Inventors: Michael B. Dancu, John M. Tarbell