Abstract:
A device and method for the detection of the interaction between two or more objects is disclosed. The device utilizes electrical impedance spectra measured from a piezoelectric element attached to one such object. Comparison of such spectra along a range of traverse allows precise estimates of distance to be made. One useful application is the topographical mapping of a surface.
Abstract:
A drive system includes a planetary gear system includes a sun gear secured to an input shaft. One or more planetary gears rotatably mounted to a cage engage the sun gear. The planetary gears likewise engage a ring gear encircling the planetary and sun gears. A coupler is selectively engageable between an output shaft of the planetary gear system and either the cage or the ring gear. A brake is movable between engagement with whichever of the cage and ring gear to which the coupler is not engaged. In some embodiments the coupler rotatably mounts to a brake embodied as a cylindrical slider such that the coupler is restrained from moving along an axis of rotation of the coupler. A detent mechanism engages the coupler and brake to retain them in positions corresponding to forward and reverse.
Abstract:
A power distribution module for a personal recreational vehicle includes a housing and a cover. The housing defines an interior and includes a wall having an array of receptacle openings. The receptacle openings are adapted to receive and secure electrical components inside the housing. A distribution harness includes a plurality of electrical conductors and is coupled to the housing wherein the electrical conductors are in electrical communication with the electrical components inside the housing. The power distribution module can optionally include a decal to assist quick and accurate placement of the electrical components during the manufacturing process. A method for producing a personal recreational vehicle having a standardized housing over a range of models. The housing includes a component arrangement guide for locating and installing electrical components.
Abstract:
A linking element for use in conjunction with silk screening. The linking element, which includes apparatus enabling securement to the screening fabric, is attached to a strip of fabric to be secured to the stretching frame, enabling the use of a smaller screening fabric and more control over the tension. The element may be used in tandem.
Abstract:
A semiconductor package comprising a semiconductor wafer having an active surface comprising at least one integrated circuit, wherein each integrated circuit has a plurality of bond pads; and at least one cured silicone member covering at least a portion of the active surface, wherein at least a portion of each bond pad is not covered by the silicone member, the silicone member has a coefficient of linear thermal expansion of from 60 to 280 μm/m° C. between −40 and 150° C. and a modulus of from 1 to 300 MPa at 25° C., and the silicone member is prepared by the method of the invention.
Abstract:
A transducing head has a magnetoresistive sensor, a first bias element, and a second bias element. The magnetoresistive sensor is positioned between the first and second bias elements, and has a sensor width. The first bias element has a first length and the second bias element has a second length. The direction of the first and second lengths are substantially similar to the direction of the sensor width. The first and second lengths in the range of about one-tenth to about twenty times the sensor width.
Abstract:
An array of non-contact proximity sensors are mounted on the front bumper of the loading bridge to be in opposition to the airplane. The proximity sensors are interconnected to circuitry, and the approach speed of the gangway to the airplane is reduced automatically as it nears the airplane. The sensors and circuitry sense angular misalignment of the gangway with the airplane and selectively and automatically control its position relative to the airplane.
Abstract:
A weatherproof and fireproof loading bridge canopy is provided having an exterior cover disposes over an expandable frame and a wall structure having at least one layer of an aluminum coated fiberglass fabric disposed on the ceiling and sides of the interior of the frame. The loading bridge has good longevity and the interiorly disposed fiberglass layer which is fireproof is easily removed for replacement as needed.