SPX Corporation Patent applications |
Patent application number | Title | Published |
20150068037 | Thermal System Including an Environmental Test Chamber - A system is provided where the system includes a chamber, a first cooling system including a first cooling load evaporator, wherein the first cooling system is placed within the chamber, a second cooling system including a fluid coil, wherein the fluid coil is placed within the chamber, and a thermal storage for a second cooling fluid in the second cooling system, wherein the thermal storage is placed outside the chamber. In the system, the first cooling system further includes a first compressor and a first condenser and the second cooling system further includes a thermal storage chiller, wherein the thermal storage chiller is placed outside the chamber. | 03-12-2015 |
20140308066 | SWIVEL CAP - An actuator is provided. The actuator includes a rod having a socket portion at one distal end of the rod and a swivel cap. The swivel cap includes a base portion having an inner surface and an outer surface and a raised domed portion disposed on the inner surface of the base portion. The outer surface has an origin of the radius at the center of the plane that defines the outer surface of the base portion. The raised domed portion is mounted on the socket portion of the rod and has an origin of the radius on the plane that defines the outer surface of the base portion. A raised region is located on at least one of the raised domed portion or the socket portion. The swivel cap tilts relative to the rod in response to angular misalignment with a load to a tilt angle. | 10-16-2014 |
20140247164 | Obstruction Light Having Wireless Status Transmission Capability - An obstruction light system includes a light and lens configured to output light. The system further includes a plurality of sensors associated with the light, a processor configured to receive outputs from the plurality of sensors and determine a status of the light based on the output from the plurality of sensors, and a wireless transmitter configured to transmit the status from the processor. | 09-04-2014 |
20140102293 | SELF ALIGNING CYLINDER PISTON AND ROD BEARING AND METHOD OF MANUFACTURE THEREOF - A piston assembly is provided. The piston assembly may include: a piston rod; a piston pivotally connected to the piston rod; and a rotatable rod bearing configured to allow the piston rod to pass therethough and rotate along with the piston rod as the piston rod pivots with respect to the piston. A method of making a piston assembly may be provided. The method may include: attaching a piston rod to a piston in a pivoting connection; providing a rotatable bearing for the piston rod; and supporting the piston rod with the rotatable bearing. | 04-17-2014 |
20140096838 | DOUBLE SEAT VALVE WITH ISOLATED VENT CHAMBERS - A valve comprising sealing members configured to allow the valve to achieve an open position, a closed position, lower seat clean position and an upper seat clean position is described. A method including opening a valve, closing a valve, moving the valve to a lower seat clean position, and moving the valve to an upper seat clean position is described. | 04-10-2014 |
20140060753 | TIRE BEAD WEDGE PLIERS - A tire mounting tool configured to maintain a tire with respect to a wheel during a tire mounting process includes a wheel holding portion configured to be affirmatively held with respect to a rim of a wheel. The tire mounting tool further includes a handle portion configured to connect to and hold, at least in part, the wheel holding portion, and a tire holding portion configured to limit movement of the tire with respect to the rim of the wheel. | 03-06-2014 |
20140048215 | HIGH VOLUME AIR VALVE FOR A TIRE BEAD TOOL - A valve assembly includes a body structure having a proximal inlet tube and a distal outlet tube separated by a valve cylinder portion, a flow control valve situated in the valve cylinder portion, the flow control valve including a valve plug and an actuator shaft, and an actuation control pivotally mounted to the body structure, wherein rotational movement of the actuation control exerts an axial force against the actuator shaft to move the valve plug through the valve cylinder portion and open fluid communication between the proximal inlet tube and the distal outlet tube. A bead seating system includes means for establishing fluid communication between a container of pressurized fluid and a valve assembly, means for transferring rotational movement of a actuation control pivotally mounted on the valve assembly into an axial force, means for establishing fluid communication between the container and a bead seating tool via the valve assembly. | 02-20-2014 |
20140041386 | COOLING TOWER APPARATUS AND METHOD WITH WASTE HEAT UTILIZATION - A cooling tower system is disclosed. The cooling tower system includes a first heat exchanger that receives a process fluid from a first fluid circuit, and receives a working fluid from a second fluid circuit, thereby effecting thermal communication between the first fluid circuit and the second fluid circuit. The first fluid circuit includes a heat source disposed upstream of the first heat exchanger, and a cooling tower unit configured to transfer heat from the process fluid to a flow of ambient air. The second fluid circuit includes a waste heat expansion engine disposed downstream of the first heat exchanger in a direction of working fluid flow. The waste heat expansion engine is configured to extract power from the working fluid and transfer at least a portion of the power extracted to a component of the cooling tower unit. | 02-13-2014 |
20140033876 | AUTO CYCLE PUMP AND METHOD OF OPERATION - A hydraulic flow sensing apparatus is provided. The apparatus includes: a manifold; a hole in the manifold in fluid communication with a fluid pathway; a poppet valve in the hole in the manifold configured to move when fluid in the pathway flows; and a proximity switch configured to detect movement of the poppet valve. A method of operating a hydraulic circuit may also be provided. | 02-06-2014 |
20140020848 | EXTENDABLE HANDLE FOR A TIRE SPOON AND METHOD OF OPERATION - An extendable handled tool may include: a shaft; a hollow shaft extension encompassing the shaft and configured to move axially on the shaft so that the shaft moves in and out of the hollow space in the shaft extension; a locking collar attached to the shaft extension, the locking collar configured to rotate on the shaft; a tooth connected to the locking collar such that the tooth rotates with the locking collar; and a locking ring mounted on the shaft, the locking ring configured to fit with the tooth to rotate between a locked position and an unlocked position, wherein the locked position prevents the shaft extension from moving axially with respect to the shaft and the unlocked position permits the shaft extension to move axially with respect to the shaft. A method of extending a handle on a tool may also be provided. | 01-23-2014 |
20130340948 | TIRE SPOON HOLDER AND METHOD OF OPERATION - A tire spoon holder is provided. The tire spoon holder may include: a first and second handle; a first and second jaw, each jaw connected to at least one of the handles wherein the jaws are configured to come together when the handles are moved toward each other; and a loop attached to at least one jaw or handle. A method of attaching a tire spoon to a wheel rim may be provided. The method may include: attaching a tire spoon holder to a wheel rim; slipping a tire spoon through a loop in the tire spoon holder; and inserting a flat portion of the tire spoon between a tire and the wheel rim. | 12-26-2013 |
20130284408 | Reservoir Cooling Apparaturs and Method - A cooling reservoir may be provided. The cooling reservoir may include: a generally polygon shaped container having sides that define at least two corners; a fan configured to blow air across two sides that define one of the corners; and cooling fins attached to the sides. A method for making a cooling reservoir may be provided. The method may include: providing generally polygon shaped container having sides that define at least two corners; mounting a fan to blow air across two sides that define one of the corners; and attaching cooling fins to the sides. | 10-31-2013 |
20130205806 | Method and Apparatus for Improving Accuracy of A/C Diagnostic Tests - An apparatus and method are developed to improve accuracy of diagnostic tests for A/C systems. In particular, a refrigerant recovery unit may have its hoses pre-charged with a refrigerant to a predetermined pressure or amount before performing the diagnostic tests on the A/C system of the vehicle. For example, a predetermine amount of refrigerant may be injected into the hoses of the refrigerant recovery unit to pre-charge them. The pre-charged hoses of the refrigerant recovery unit may prevent a refrigerant flow from the A/C system to the hoses connected thereto before the diagnostic tests are implemented and thus, improve the accuracy of the diagnostic tests. | 08-15-2013 |
20130199733 | TIRE SPOON SURFACE PROFILE AND METHOD OF MAKING - A tire spoon may be provided. The tire spoon may include: a bar; and a spoon portion at one end of the bar, the spoon portion having two outer side edges and a middle portion located between the two outer side edges, and at a given cross section of the spoon portion, the middle portion cross sectional thickness is greater than a cross sectional thickness of the two outer side edges. A method of forming a tire spoon is provided. The method may include: providing a spoon portion on an end of a bar; and forming the spoon portion to have middle section that has a thicker cross section than either side portion of the spoon portion. | 08-08-2013 |
20130188445 | IMPELLER ASSEMBLY APPARATUS AND METHOD - A mixing apparatus and system includes a hub, a plurality of blades, and a respective hinge for each blade to pivotally secure each blade to the hub. Each hinge including a lock having a tab and a detent to secure the respective blade in an operating conformation. | 07-25-2013 |
20130188441 | MIXER ASSEMBLY APPARATUS AND METHOD - A mixing apparatus and system includes a hub, a plurality of blades, and a respective hinge for each blade to pivotally secure each blade to the hub. Each hinge including a lock having a tab and a detent to secure the respective blade in an operating conformation. | 07-25-2013 |
20130185911 | MIXER ATTACHMENT ASSEMBLY APPARATUS AND METHOD - A mixing apparatus and system includes a hub, a plurality of blades, and a respective hinge for each blade to pivotally secure each blade to the hub. Each hinge including a lock having a tab and a detent to secure the respective blade in an operating conformation. | 07-25-2013 |
20130152851 | Bulk Growth Grain Controlled Directional Solidification Device and Method - A solidification system is provided and includes a crucible, heater, insulation, movable insulation, and radiation regulator. The crucible is configured to retain a volume of silicon. The heater is to heat the crucible. The heater being configured to provide sufficient heat to melt the volume of silicon. The insulation is to reduce heat loss from a first portion of the crucible. The movable insulation to regulate heat loss from a second portion of the crucible. The radiation regulator is to regulate radiant heat loss over the second portion of the crucible. The radiation regulator is configured to modulate a size of an opening in the radiation regular through which radiant heat dissipates from. | 06-20-2013 |
20130147682 | HIGH-POWER-CAPABLE CIRCULARLY POLARIZED PATCH ANTENNA APPARATUS AND METHOD - A circularly polarized patch antenna uses a square quarter-wavelength conductive plate, spaced away from a slightly larger backing conductor. Excitation uses a coaxial feed stem pair, whereof respective inner conductors join the patch at orthogonal locations on a reference circle, and outer conductors intrude past points of joining to the backing conductor to establish gaps that interact with patch and backing conductor size and spacing to jointly establish terminal impedance. A parasitic element in the propagation path broadens bandwidth, while a frame behind serves to define a cavity reflector. A power divider behind the frame converts a single applied broadcast signal into two equal signals with orthogonal phase, which signals are delivered to the feed stems with equal-length coaxial lines. | 06-13-2013 |
20130104799 | Shroud and Method for Adding Fluid to a Melt | 05-02-2013 |
20130104695 | Adjustable Foot Pedal, Linkage, and Method for Actuating a Hydraulic Cylinder | 05-02-2013 |
20130074788 | ATOMIZING DESUPERHEATER SHUTOFF APPARATUS AND METHOD - The present invention is directed to a desuperheater spraying valve assembly. More particularly, the invention provides a new and improved valve assembly, whereby cooling liquid may be controllably injected into a gas or a liquid stream, typically steam, to selectively maintain the gas or liquid at a predetermined temperature level. In a possible embodiment of the present invention, a class V valve assembly is disclosed. It comprises an actuator coupled to a plug with a valve seat in the proximity of said plug. The plug is affixed to an actuator rod which transverses the body of the valve assembly. A spray tube may be affixed to said valve seat and at least one spray nozzle is affixed to a to the spray tube. The plug and said valve seat are conical in shape as to when said plug is inserted into said valve, they form a seal. | 03-28-2013 |
20130042473 | INJECTOR NOZZLE SLEEVE REPLACER AND METHOD - An injection nozzle sleeve servicing system is provided. The system includes: a guide having two ends and an interior chamber, the guided having threads on one end; an installer screw dimensioned to fit inside the interior chamber, the installer screw having a threaded end and a pushing end; an external nut having two sets of threads wherein each of the two sets of threads on the external nut are threaded in different directions wherein one of the sets of threads on the external nut is configured to communicate with the threads on the guide and the other set of threads on the external nut is configured to communicate with the threads on the installer screw; and a rotational lock in the guide configured to prevent the installer screw from rotating with respect to the guide, wherein when one set of threads on the external nut is engaged with the threads on the guide and the other set of threads on the external nut is engaged with the threads on the installer screw, and the external nut is turned with respect to the guide and the installer screw to cause relative axial movement between the external nut and the guide, the installer screw moves axially with respect to the guide at a different rate than the axial movement of the external nut and the guide. A method for installing a fuel injector nozzle sleeve may also be provided. | 02-21-2013 |
20130037222 | TIRE BEADING LOCKING TOOL AND METHOD FOR MAKING SAME - A tire bead locking tool is provided. The tool may include a body; a first jaw connected to the body; a second jaw pivotally connected to the body and located to oppose the first jaw; a locking mechanism configured to selectively lock the first and second jaws in a relative position with respect to each other; and a resilient member attached to one of the first and second jaws and located between the first and second jaws. A method of manufacturing may also be provide. The method may include: forming a body; forming a pair of jaws on the body wherein at least one of the jaws pivots with respect to the body; attaching a resilient member to at least one of the jaws; and forming a locking mechanism that can selectively lock the jaws in a position; and extending a handle further from the jaws than the locking mechanism. | 02-14-2013 |
20130030640 | DYNAMIC DISCOVERY OF VEHICLE COMMUNICATIONS INTERFACE DEVICE AND METHOD - A communications system that includes a vehicular diagnostic tool and a vehicle communication interface (VCI) configured to be connected to a vehicular computing system. In operation, the vehicular diagnostic tool automatically detects the presence of the VCI when the VCI is proximate thereto. Thereafter, the VCI and vehicular diagnostic tool communicate through a wireless connection. Also, a method of communicating using the aforementioned vehicular diagnostic tool and VCI. | 01-31-2013 |
20130022482 | NON-CIRCULAR BEARING AND A METHOD FOR ROTATING A CAM - A bearing is provided. The bearing includes: an inner race; rolling elements located in an array around the inner race; and an outer race located around the inner race and the outer race is configured to retain the rolling elements between the inner and outer races, wherein at least one of the outer race and the rollers have an external profile that is a non-circular external profile and thereby configured to exert a linear motion in a radial direction to a work piece in contact with the external profile as the bearing rotates with respect to the work piece. A method of rotating a cam is provided. The method includes: rotating a bearing about a substantially constant center; and causing rolling elements in the bearing to rotate along a non-circular and circumference line and about the substantially constant center, wherein the circumference line has high portions and low portions wherein the high portions have a longer radial distance from the substantially constant center than the low portions. | 01-24-2013 |
20130021117 | LOCKING DEVICE FOR A RADIO FREQUENCY FILTER TUNING PROBE - A radio frequency (RF) filter includes an input port configured to receive a signal, an output port configured to output a signal, and a tuning probe configured to be movable within a tuning probe port to adjust filter characteristics. The tuning probe port is configured to receive the tuning probe therein, and a locking mechanism is configured to lock the tuning probe in the tuning probe port at a desired depth and further configured to prevent movement of the tuning probe in the tuning probe port when the locking mechanism is in a locked configuration. | 01-24-2013 |
20130018542 | POWER BALANCING FOR VEHICLE DIAGNOSTIC TOOLS - A power balancing system includes a vehicle communication device connected to a data link connector of a vehicle, and a scan tool connected to the vehicle communication device, the scan tool including a handset and a vehicle connector interface (VCI), wherein power can be received from one or more of an external power source being external from the VCI, the vehicle, and an internal power supply of the scan tool, and wherein the system balances the received power. | 01-17-2013 |
20130008192 | System and Method for Improving Charge Accuracy by Temperature Compensation - A method and charging apparatus for adding refrigerant to an air conditioning system are provided. The method includes calculating a temperature differential by measuring a first temperature of a refrigerant inside of a refrigerant container and measuring a second temperature either at the air conditioning system or the ambient temperature. The method further includes using the temperature differential to calculate a compensation amount of refrigerant to add to a previously determined recommended amount of refrigerant based on the type of air conditioning system being charged. | 01-10-2013 |
20130000397 | VALVE KEEPER VERIFICATION TOOL - A valve keeper verification tool is provided. The tool may include: an elongated body having two ends; an axial hole in one end of the body dimensioned to fit over a valve stem; and structure surrounding the hole dimensioned to contact at least one keeper of a retainer for an engine valve, wherein the tool is angled near the hole between about 10 and about 25 degrees. A method of checking to ensure a valve retaining keeper is in place may also be provided. The method may include: inserting a valve stem into a hole in a valve keeper verification tool; moving the valve keeper verification tool against a keeper; and applying a force against the keeper. | 01-03-2013 |
20120324075 | Method and Apparatus to Manage Information Between a Scan Tool and Networked Devices - A system and method for managing information between a diagnostic tool and a networked computing device are provided. The system made up of a diagnostic tool for retrieving information from a vehicle under test, a networked computing device for providing information concerning the vehicle under test, and an information management device for assisting communication between the diagnostic tool and the networked computing device. Information is gathered by the diagnostic tool and sent to the information management device which determines how to process the information, which may then be sent to the networked computing device for processing and returning relevant data to the information management device, and potentially to the diagnostic tool. | 12-20-2012 |
20120323435 | Method and Apparatus for Monitoring Battery Drain and Starter Current - A parasitic drain tester that measures a parasitic battery drain. A current measuring circuit includes a capacitor smoothing the current distribution within the circuit, a first interface connected to a vehicle power source and the capacitor, a second interface accommodating an outside connection for communication, a first processor connected to the second interface and the capacitor, the processor communicating with the second interface and performing analysis and calculation of the data received, and a converting unit connected to the processor, converting the signal received through the first interface from a first form to a second form. The first unit is connected to the current measuring circuit, and includes a memory storing information retrieved from the current measuring circuit through the second interface, and a second processor analyzing the information received from the current measuring circuit and providing instructions to the first processor through the second interface. | 12-20-2012 |
20120313771 | Diagnostic Tool with Global Positioning System and Alerts - A diagnostic tool and method are provided wherein the diagnostic tool includes a global positioning system that alerts a user when a condition is exceeded. Examples of conditions include that the user is speeding during the test drive or has driven passed a defined area. The user can be alerted to such conditions. The owner of the shop may also locate the diagnostic tool by using a location server. | 12-13-2012 |
20120304833 | OXYGEN SENSOR TOOL AND METHOD FOR INSTALLATION AND REMOVAL OF AN OXYGEN SENSOR - A work piece turning tool is provided. The tool includes: a body having two ends; a gripper located at one end configured to grip a work piece; a handle located at the end opposite of the gripper; and tool attachment located at a base of the handle at the end of the tool, wherein the tool attachment includes both an exterior drive and an interior drive. A method of turning a work piece is provided. The method includes: attaching a first tool having a movable gripper end to the work piece; attaching a second tool to a drive mounted to the handle of the first tool; moving the first tool to a desired orientation with respect to the gripper; and turning the work piece by moving the second tool. | 12-06-2012 |
20120285551 | NOSE SEAL FOR SURGE RELIEF VALVES - In accordance with one embodiment of the present invention, a seal for a surge relief valve includes a) a valve housing having a flow inlet and a flow outlet; b) an annular retainer for coupling a plug to an interior of the valve housing, the retainer having a first end oriented toward the flow inlet and a second end remote therefrom; c) the plug having a first end oriented toward the flow inlet and a second end remote therefrom, the plug having a mating junction for coupling with the second end of the retainer, the plug having a first countersink, a second countersink, a first lip defined between the first and second countersinks and a second lip adjacent the second countersink; and d) an annular plug seal having a first end oriented toward the flow inlet and a second end remote from the first end for mating with the second countersink and a lip that abuts the second end of the retainer. | 11-15-2012 |
20120279213 | COOLING TOWER APPARATUS AND METHOD WITH WASTE HEAT UTILIZATION - A cooling tower system is provided that can exhibit increased energy efficiency that cools a process fluid or the like. The cooling tower system includes a cooling tower unit and a thermoelectric device along with a working fluid loop. The process fluid may be used to heat a working fluid for the thermoelectric device before being sent to the cooling tower for cooling. Power generated by the thermoelectric device may be utilized to operate a component of the cooling tower such as a fan or a pump. The cooling tower is also utilized to provide cooling to condense the working fluid from a vapor to a liquid form wherein the cooling tower is used to remove waste heat from a process fluid. | 11-08-2012 |
20120273634 | Belt Holding Tool - A tool for holding a belt of an engine during belt replacement. The tool includes a base and a belt holding portion. A magnet can be included in a magnet receiving portion of the base so that the tool can be coupled to the pulley. The tool may also be clipped to the pulley so that the belt can be held in place during replacement. The belt holding portion may also be curved similar to the curvature of the pulley. | 11-01-2012 |
20120260727 | DIESEL PARTICULATE FILTER FLOW RATE MEASURING APPARATUS AND METHOD - A particulate filter is provided. The particulate filter includes: a plurality of sensors located in the filter; and a controller operatively connected to the sensors to determine a relative flow velocity over the sensors. A method for detecting obstructions in a filter may also be provided. The method may include: locating a sensor in a zone within a filter; connecting the sensor to a controller; monitoring the sensor with the controller; and determining whether the zone is obstructed based on data received from the sensor. | 10-18-2012 |
20120228787 | FAN COOLING TOWER DESIGN AND METHOD - A hybrid cooling tower apparatus that extends along a vertical axis is provided. The cooling tower includes a first housing structure having an inlet and a first outlet located a first position along the vertical axis, wherein the housing structure includes a base and opposing side walls that extend along the vertical axis away from the base. The tower also includes a heat exchanger disposed in the housing structure, wherein the heat exchanger is positioned adjacent the first outlet and extends at least partially all the way across the first outlet. Finally the hybrid tower employs an air current generator positioned in a plane normal to the vertical axis and oriented to direct an air stream toward the base and through the heat exchanger and the first outlet. | 09-13-2012 |
20120226408 | MULTIPLEXING DEVICE WITH PROVISION FOR EXPANSION - An apparatus and method are provided that allow a diagnostic tool to communicate with a data link connector in a vehicle and place the vehicle in a desired state for diagnostic testing. A cable that can automatically multiplex its connections in order to make the appropriate connections between the diagnostic tool and the data link connector based on a communication protocol of the vehicle under test. A connector allowing for selective switching of pins of the connector to jump connect the selected pins. This allows the vehicle to be placed in the proper state for diagnostic testing and the diagnostic tool to communicate with the data link connector regardless of the pins being used by the communication protocol of the vehicle. | 09-06-2012 |
20120220339 | Base Station for a Cellular Communication System - A base station for a cellular communication system is provided. The base station includes a transceiver and a phased-array antenna. The phased-array antenna includes a plurality of sectors, each of which includes a plurality of vertically-arranged antenna panels, each of which includes a plurality of radiators arranged in columns. The vertical spacing between the radiators in each column is a predetermined value, and the vertical spacing between the radiators in adjacent columns is one-half of the predetermined value. | 08-30-2012 |
20120216399 | ANGLED WIRE CRIMPING TOOL - A crimping tool having an angled crimping portion and a method to use the crimping tool are provided. The angled crimping portion can be angled relative to the crimping tool handle or pivoting portion. The angled crimping portion can also be replaceable with various angled crimping portion having various angles. The angled crimping portion is also adjustable at different angles as needed by the user. | 08-30-2012 |
20120215401 | OFF-BOARD DEVICE WITH READ/SCROLL ACTUATOR - A single input having multiple functions is provided. The single input having multiple functions may be used on off-board tools. In accordance with one embodiment, an off-board tool having a read/scroll actuator is provided. The read/scroll actuator, upon being actuated, performs either a read function or a scroll function. Another embodiment of an off-board tool having a display and capable of receiving information is provided. The off-board tool includes a contextual actuator having a first and a second mode. Actuation of the actuator in the first mode effectuates retrieval of information. Actuation of the actuator in the second mode effectuates display of at least a portion of the retrieved information. In accordance with another embodiment, an off-board device is provided. The off-board tool includes a display, read logic, scroll logic and a read/scroll actuator. | 08-23-2012 |
20120215400 | CELLULAR PHONE CONFIGURED WITH OFF-BOARD DEVICE CAPABILITIES AND STARTER/CHARGER AND BATTERY TESTING CAPABILITIES - The present invention is directed toward a cellular phone that connects to an existing vehicle data link to perform the functions of an off-board device, such as a scan tool, for displaying diagnostic information relating to vehicles. In addition, the cellular phone connects to a starter/charger system and/or a battery to perform the functions of a starter/charger/battery testing device. Such a device allows a user to connect the cellular phone to a data link connector located in a vehicle, download software to either an adaptor or the cellular phone, retrieve information relating to diagnostic tests on the vehicle and view the results on the cellular phone display, and/or communicate the results to another person or device. | 08-23-2012 |
20120209470 | Diagnostic Tool With Smart Camera - A diagnostic tool that includes a smart camera. The smart camera can be used to capture an image of the part that needs to be replaced. The image can also include the bar code that may be attached to the part. The image can be used to search a parts information database for additional parts information such as part number, manuals, pictures, etc. A further search of a parts supplier's database can be conducted using a location of the diagnostic tool to determine the nearest parts supplier that has the part available and the best price. | 08-16-2012 |
20120204393 | INTERCHANGING METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR A BRAKE PISTON COMPRESSOR - A brake piston compressor is provided. The brake piston compressor includes: two blocks; a forcing screw configured to engage the blocks to selectively bring the blocks closer together or farther apart from each other depending upon which way the forcing screw is turned; two pads each pad configured to be slidably engaged with at least one block; and a locking mechanism configured to engage and disengage to lock one of the pads to one of the blocks when the locking mechanism is engaged. A method of operating a brake piston compressor is provided. The method includes: sliding a pad into a channel in a block; locking the pad to the block; and turning a forcing screw to move the pad and block with respect to a second pad and block. | 08-16-2012 |
20120174599 | THERMOELECTRIC COMPRESSED AIR AND/OR INERT GAS DRYER - A gas dryer is provided. The gas dryer includes a first opening structure forming a cooling pathway fluidly connected to the first opening; a first thermoelectric device thermally connected to the structure forming the cooling pathway and a heat exchanger. A condensate drain is located near an end of the cooling pathway and configured to drain condensate formed when a fluid is cooled along the cooling pathway. A structure forming a warming pathway is located between the condensate drain and a second opening, and a second thermoelectric device thermally connected between the structure forming cooling pathway and the structure forming the warming pathway and connected to exchange heat between the cooling pathway and the warming pathway. A method of drying a gas is provided. The method includes directing the gas through a cooling pathway, removing heat from the gas in the cooling pathway with a first thermoelectric device to a heat exchanger, condensing a fluid out of the gas. The method further includes draining the condensed fluid from the gas, directing the gas though a warming pathway and removing heat from gas in the cooling pathway with a second thermoelectric device and inserting that heat into gas in the warming pathway. | 07-12-2012 |
20120153892 | BATTERY TESTING AND CHARGING SYSTEM AND METHOD OF OPERATION THEREOF - A battery testing and charging system that includes at least one battery testing device and at least one battery charging device, wherein the battery testing device is removable from the battery charging device and wherein the battery testing device may communicate with a plurality of battery charging devices. Also, a method of testing and charging a battery that may be implemented using, for example, the above-described battery testing and charging system. | 06-21-2012 |
20120143016 | REVERSE FAILURE ANALYSIS METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR DIAGNOSTIC TESTING - A reverse failure analyzer determines a group of diagnostic test procedures related to a particular vehicle/patient component from a pool of diagnostic procedures, and then identifies the specific failure modes of each of the diagnostic test procedures. The reverse failure analyzer further associates the specific failure modes with the respective vehicle/patient component with each of the diagnostic test procedures, and the symptoms associated with each of the diagnostic test procedures to the correlated vehicle's/patient's components and failure modes. In addition, the reverse failure analyzer can cross-reference various vehicle/patient components that can be the root cause of a particular symptom or a vehicle/patient operation problem. Furthermore, the reverse failure analyzer can receive observed symptoms regarding a particular test subject vehicle/patient and correlate the observed symptoms to the vehicle/patient components that can cause the symptoms based on the results of reverse failure analyses. | 06-07-2012 |
20120130583 | Automotive Scan Tool with Enhanced Audio, Video and Voice Recognition Functionality - A diagnostic tool for a vehicle, includes a signal translator communicating with the vehicle in at least one protocol, an input unit for inputting information, a processor controlling a software according to the input information from the input unit and communication with the vehicle from the signal translator, the processor controlling a reception of diagnostic data of the vehicle through the signal translator, an input and output unit receiving and transmitting audio and video signals controlled by the processor, a memory storing a software controlled by the processor, the memory storing audio and video information, and transferring the audio and video information through the input and output unit; and a display unit displaying information according to the received and processed audio and video signals stored in the memory. | 05-24-2012 |
20120112110 | BALL VALVE SEAT SEAL - In an embodiment of the present invention, a valve seal for a ball valve includes a ball configured to mate with a tail piece, an annular seat ring to facilitate the mating of the ball with the tail piece, the seat ring having an angled wall having a first groove for accommodating a first seal and a second groove for accommodating a second seal, the first seal having a different Young's modulus from the second seal. | 05-10-2012 |
20120109544 | DIGITAL COMPRESSION RECORDER WITH SPECIFICATION DATABASE SYSTEM AND METHOD - In accordance with one embodiment of the present invention, a system for measuring the cylinder compression of an engine is provided The system may include a microprocessor; a sensor operatively connected to the microprocessor, the sensor configured to measure a pressure; a memory operatively connected to the microprocessor, the memory configured to store a pressure detected by the sensor; and a database operatively connected to the microprocessor, the database configured to a store baseline pressure associated with an engine. | 05-03-2012 |
20120107142 | INTERNALLY SUPPLIED AIR JET COOLING FOR A HYDRAULIC PUMP - A compressed gas powered machine is provided. The machine includes: an outlet and a hollow member fluidly connected to the outlet and configured to receive gas expended from the machine through the outlet the hollow member defining holes oriented to allow the gas contained in the hollow member to blow on various parts of the machine. | 05-03-2012 |
20120105084 | HYDROCARBON VAPOR DETECTOR APPARATUS AND METHOD - A hydrocarbon vapor detection instrument includes a hydrocarbon vapor detector, with conductivity proportional to contiguous airborne concentration of hydrocarbon vapor. The instrument further includes electronic circuitry providing an electrical signal proportional to the vapor detector conductivity and to a switch-selected sensitivity setting. The instrument further includes indicators to signal recharging status while a power switch is off and an external power supply is recharging the battery, namely that the battery is partially or fully charged and if the battery temperature is excessive, to signal that operating power is on, to signal that a low battery condition exists, and to signal different concentrations of hydrocarbon vapor. For the last of these, indicator position on a housing corresponds to vapor concentration. The instrument further includes an audible indication of power-on status and vapor concentration, changing with vapor concentration. | 05-03-2012 |
20120103567 | INTERNALLY DIRECTED AIR JET COOLING FOR A HYDRAULIC PUMP - An adjustable cooling mechanism is provided. The cooling mechanism may include: a hollow member surrounding, at least in part, a machine to be cooled; the hollow member having holes oriented at the machine; an outlet configured to outlet a compressed fluid from the machine; a conduit connecting the outlet to an interior of the hollow member; and a throttling mechanism configured to throttle a fluid moving through the holes. | 05-03-2012 |
20120102704 | WHEEL HUB REMOVER AND METHOD - A hub remover is provided. The hub remover includes a cross bar; a set of jaws having a receiving hole dimensioned to allow the cross bar to fit through the receiving hole to connect the jaws together via the cross bar; a forcing screw configured to extend through the cross-bar and between the jaws; a forcing screw nut configured to threadably engage an end of the forcing screw; and a resilient friction device located in the hole and configured to generate friction between the cross bar and the jaw when the cross bar moves through the hole in the cross bar. A method of operating a hub remover is provided. The method includes extending the forcing screw through a hole in the hub; placing a forcing screw nut on an end of the forcing screw that has extended through the hub; placing a foot portion of a jaw behind a portion of the hub; and turning the forcing screw to urge the forcing screw nut against a rear portion of the hub and thereby push the hub off of a spindle assembly. | 05-03-2012 |
20120098725 | Broadband Clover Leaf Dipole Panel Antenna - An antenna radiator is provided. The radiator includes four elements, each including a node, a first ring connected to the node, and a second ring connected to the node and disposed inside of and coplanar with the first ring. The first ring includes a first plurality of segments, and the second ring includes a second plurality of segments. | 04-26-2012 |
20120092949 | SYNCHRONIZED MIXING DEVICE AND METHOD - A system for mixing a fluid in a tank includes a set of mixers and a controller. The set of mixers is disposed proximal to a perimeter of the tank. The set of mixers are operable to pivot. The controller is configured to control the set of mixers to pivot from a first orientation to a second orientation. The controller is configured to control each mixer of the set of mixers to stop pivoting in a first direction in response to each respective mixer achieving a predetermined intermediate orientation and the controller is configured to control the set of mixers to continue pivoting in the first direction in response to all mixers of the set of mixers achieving the predetermined intermediate orientation. | 04-19-2012 |
20120090336 | METHOD FOR ACCURATELY RECHARGING A/C SYSTEMS - A refrigerant recovery unit for accurately filling a refrigerant system with a refrigerant is provided which includes a storage vessel for holding refrigerant, sensors to assist in determining the pressure of the refrigerant in the storage vessel, a controller to control the flow of refrigerant from the storage vessel to the refrigerant system to be serviced, and a heating device to heat the refrigerant, which is activated only if heating is required, as determined by data received by the controller. | 04-19-2012 |
20120079877 | COMPRESSION TEST ADAPTER - A compression tester adapter is provided. The compression adaptor includes a generally cylindrical plug fitting, including a pilot segment, an external thread, a cylinder segment, a gasket located between the external thread and the cylinder segment and a plug end; and a connector fitting including an attachment interface; and a hose attached to the plug fitting. A method of adapting a compression tester spark plug hose for use with a spark plug socket is provided. The method includes; engaging a threaded spark plug socket in an internal combustion engine cylinder head; attaching a compression tester spark plug hose; and transmitting a compressed gas to the compression tester spark plug hose wherein the spark plug socket thread is configured with a nominal diameter of 12 millimeters; and creating a substantially airtight seal against a periphery of a tapered seat near a inner extreme of the spark plug socket. | 04-05-2012 |
20120079839 | VACUUM PUMP OIL CHANGING METHOD AND APPARATUS - Refrigerant processing equipment is provided. The refrigerant processing equipment may include: a vacuum pump; an outlet for draining vacuum pump lubricating oil from the vacuum pump; a fluid container; and a conduit configured to provide a fluid connection between the outlet and the container. A method for draining oil from a vacuum pump from refrigerant processing equipment is provided. The method may include connecting an outlet for oil on the vacuum pump with a container; and providing a valve between the outlet and the container to selectively provide fluid communication between the outlet and an the container. | 04-05-2012 |
20120078462 | OFF-BOARD TOOL WITH PROGRAMMABLE ACTUATOR - A programmable actuator having multiple programmable functions is provided. The programmable actuator may be used on an off-board tool. In accordance with an embodiment, an off-board tool, OBT, including a user-defined programmable actuator is provided. In accordance with another embodiment, an OBT includes a processor, an internal memory, a programmable actuator, program logic and perform function logic. In accordance with yet another embodiment, a method of actuating performance of a user-defined series of functions for a OBT is provided. The method includes the step of actuating a programmable actuator of the OBT with a single actuating action. | 03-29-2012 |
20120077504 | Super Economical Broadcast System - A super economical cellular communication system is provided. The system includes a plurality of base transceiver stations that define a plurality of respective cells. Each base transceiver station includes a phased-array antenna having six sectors arranged in a symmetric hexagonal configuration. Each sector has at least one group of vertically-arranged antenna panels, and each antenna panel has a plurality of vertically-arranged radiators disposed in at least two staggered columns. | 03-29-2012 |
20120072048 | JUMPER CONNECTOR - A method and apparatus for jumping a pin connections in an electrical device are provided. The electrical device can be a vehicle having a data link connector that once mated with the apparatus, such a jumping connector that will jump at least two pin connections in the data link connector. The jumping connector can also have dip switches that be in the active or inactive state. In the active state, the dip switch will cause a connection to one of the pin connectors on the electrical device while the inactive state, the dip switch will not cause a connection to one of the pin connectors on the electrical device. | 03-22-2012 |
20120062237 | Method and Apparatus for Charging a Battery - A method of testing a battery is provided the method may include: (a) applying a heavy load to the battery, (b) measuring the voltage V | 03-15-2012 |
20120060970 | HANDS FREE AIR CHUCK AND METHOD OF USE - A tool for filling a tire with a gas is provided. The tool includes: an air chuck; a shaft connected to the air chuck; a rim hook connected to the shaft; and a spring located between the shaft and the rim hook. A method of filling a tire is also provided. The method may include: connecting an air chuck to a valve stem; attaching a hook and spring assembly attached to the air chuck to a rim associated with the tire to be filled; and flowing a fluid through, the air chuck and into the valve stem. | 03-15-2012 |
20120035805 | Error Message Details for Debug Available to End User - A diagnostic tool for diagnosing a vehicle, includes a signal translator communicating with the vehicle in at least one protocol, an input device for inputting information, a processor controlling a software according to the input information from the input device and communication with the vehicle from the signal translator, the processor controlling a reception of diagnostic data of the vehicle through the signal translator, a memory storing a software controlled by the processor, the memory storing information relating to the diagnostic tool and information relating to the configuration of the diagnostic tool and the configuration of the communication with the unit being tested, and an output unit connected to the processor indicating information according to the received and processed information relating to the diagnostic tool and information relating to the diagnosing of the vehicle. | 02-09-2012 |
20120035804 | Diagnostic Tool with Recessed Connector - A diagnostic tool that includes components that allow the diagnostic tool to record data while the vehicle is driven in order to capture data for intermittent faults. The diagnostic tool can operate in harsh conditions such as high and low temperatures. The diagnostic tool includes a capacitor to power the diagnostic tool in order to prevent complete drainage of the vehicle battery. The diagnostic tool includes a support module that can couple with a socket and a plug in order to keep them mated together during use. | 02-09-2012 |
20120035800 | Vehicle Diagnostic, Communication and Signal Delivery System - A diagnostic tool that includes components that allow the diagnostic tool to record data while the vehicle is driven in order to capture data for intermittent faults. The diagnostic tool can operate in harsh conditions such as high and low temperatures. The diagnostic tool includes a capacitor to power the diagnostic tool in order to prevent complete drainage of the vehicle battery. The diagnostic tool includes a support module that can couple with a socket and a plug in order to keep them mated together during use. | 02-09-2012 |
20120024976 | LEAK DETECTOR USING ATOMIZED OIL PRODUCED BY A MECHANICAL GENERATING MEANS - A visible vapor generator is provided. The visible vapor generator may include: a pump having an inlet and an outlet; and a passage configured to provide a fluid to an impeller associated with the pump in addition to lubricating fluid and working fluid provided to the pump; wherein the action of the impeller atomizes both at least some of both the lubricating fluid and the fluid provided to the impeller and expels the atomized fluid through the outlet. A method of generating a vapor may also be provided. The method may include; modifying a pump to have a passage to conduct fluid to an impeller associated with the pump in addition to the lubricating fluid and working fluid. | 02-02-2012 |
20120013520 | Ultra-Wide Band Monopole Antenna - A broad-band monopole antenna for high voltage environments is provided. The monopole antenna includes a ground plane, a plurality of flat radiator elements and an electrical conductor. The ground plane has a flat upper surface, a lower surface, a smoothly-radiused outer edge and a hole centrally disposed through the upper and lower surfaces. Each flat radiator element has a thickness, a straight inner edge and a semicircular outer edge. The plurality of flat radiator elements are interconnected along each inner edge and symmetrically arranged about a vertical axis centered on the ground plane hole. The electrical connector extends through the ground plane hole and is coupled to the radiator elements. | 01-19-2012 |
20110298141 | DESUPERHEATER SEAT-RING APPARATUS - The present invention relates to an apparatus and method of deploying a desuperheater with a Seat-Ring designed to provide coolant injection at high temperature differential. The present invention's robust design provides for a high level of flexibility that allows operating at high temperature differentials between the coolant and the superheated fluid. The desuperheater Seat-Ring is made as a split hollow ring with a perpendicular slit traversing the ring's circumference. The opened slit design provides a high level of flexibility, which allows the seat ring to sustain severe temperature extremes by reducing thermal stress. The coolant is supplied to the seat ring through a specially designed coolant nipple liner connected to the seat-ring. | 12-08-2011 |
20110295461 | User Configurable Scan Tool - A diagnostic tool for a vehicle, includes a signal translator communicating with the vehicle in at least one protocol, an input device for inputting information, a processor controlling a software according to the input information from the input device and communication with the vehicle from the signal translator, the processor controlling a reception of diagnostic data of the vehicle through the signal translator, the processor receiving a selected information of a user and configuration of the diagnostic tool through the input device and correlating the configuration information with the user information, the processor processing the received diagnostic data according to the selected configuration information corresponding to the selected user by the input unit, a memory storing a software controlled by the processor, the memory storing the configuration information according to the corresponding user information, and a display unit receiving and displaying diagnostic information according to the selected stored configuration information according to the user. | 12-01-2011 |
20110288954 | Method and Apparatus for Identifying Related Fix Information and Parts Number - A diagnostic tool and method are provided wherein a faulty part and its part number is determined based on a retrieved DTC for a specific vehicle. The part number may include the original manufacturer's number and a generic equivalent manufacturer's number (if available). The diagnostic tool can search a parts database of various parts suppliers for their pricing and location. The diagnostic tool can also provide suggested fixes to the user based on the retrieved DTC. | 11-24-2011 |
20110261644 | MIXER FLOW DIRECTION APPARATUS AND METHOD - A mixing assembly for mixing settled solids in a liquid or the like, having a longitudinal axis, comprising: a mixing vessel having an apex. The assembly includes a directional tube having a first end and a second end wherein said second end, wherein the directional tube further comprises at least one slot located proximate to said second end wherein said at least one slot extends generally normal to the longitudinal axis. The assembly further includes an impeller disposed within the directional tube, connected to a rotatable shaft. | 10-27-2011 |
20110257837 | Method and Apparatus for Reading and Erasing Diagnostic Trouble Codes from a Vehicle - A method and apparatus is provided that allows a technician to retrieve diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) and remove any duplicates. The diagnostic tool can retrieve DTCs from the various diagnostic systems in the vehicle, remove any duplicates and display a unique list of DTCs. The diagnostic tool can also erase all DTCs including any duplicates from the vehicle after repairs have been completed. The tool can retrieve the DTCs without the user selecting the system to retrieve from. | 10-20-2011 |
20110247760 | APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR SEALING TUBELESS TIRES - An apparatus and method to seat a tire on a rim are described. Protrusions and a handle on the apparatus allow a user to brace the protrusions against the rim to prevent blow back when air is vented into the gap between the tire and the rim to seat the tire bead. The air is vented through a plurality of holes in the apparatus and the flow of the air into the apparatus is controlled by positioning a bridge handle of a flow control valve situated between the apparatus and a tank of air. | 10-13-2011 |
20110225962 | Variable Speed Hydraulic Pump Apparatus and Method - An embodiment in accordance with the present invention provides a hydraulic pump including a first motor running at a fixed speed, a reservoir for fluid and a first pump operatively coupled to the motor such that the pump runs at the same speed as the motor and generates a flow of fluid from the reservoir. The hydraulic pump further includes a second motor, a speed control valve operatively coupled to the to the first pump and operatively coupled to the second motor such that a portion of the flow is directed to the second motor and the remainder of the flow is diverted to the reservoir, and a second pump operatively coupled to the second motor such that the second pump is driven by the second motor. | 09-22-2011 |
20110219617 | APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR INSTALLING AND REMOVING WHEEL STUDS - A wheel stud installing and removing system includes a C-frame; a forcing screw configured to communicate with the C-frame to move laterally through the C-frame; a swivel mounted on an end on the forcing screw; an adapter receiver mounted on an opposite end of the C-frame from the forcing screw, and configured to receive at least one of either a stud installing adapter and a stud removing adapter. A method of moving a stud includes: inserting one of either an installing adapter or a removing adapter into an adapter receiver on a C-frame; aligning a longitudinal axis of the adapter with a longitudinal axis of the stud; aligning the longitudinal axis of the stud with a longitudinal axis of a forcing screw; and turning the forcing screw. | 09-15-2011 |
20110167301 | FORMULA SERVER FOR DIAGNOSTIC SYSTEMS - An apparatus and method are provided and include a formula server having formulas and conversion modules that are separate from a diagnostic application of a diagnostic tool. The diagnostic tool receives the diagnostic data and transmits it to a remote computer, where the data is converted using a formula. The resulting data is then transmitted back to the diagnostic tool for display. | 07-07-2011 |
20110163012 | Slurry Treatment Method and Apparatus - A method of extracting bitumen from tar sands includes providing an apparatus for mixing fluids, the apparatus including: a housing, a substantially cylindrical rotor rotatably mounted within the interior chamber, a first array of spaced bores formed in the peripheral surface of the rotor, a second array of spaced bores formed in the peripheral surface of the rotor, a first fluid inlet in the housing, a second fluid inlet in the housing, and a fluid outlet in the housing positioned for withdrawal of fluid from the chamber to minimize cavitation damage at the location of the fluid outlet, and providing a separation composition at the second predetermined location, the separation composition including: a wetting agent in the amount of from about 0.001% to about 2.5% by weight of the separating composition, a hydrotropic agent, and a dispersant having flocculating characteristics, wherein the separating composition has a pH greater than 7.5. | 07-07-2011 |
20110161049 | TIRE PRESSURE MONITOR SYSTEM TOOL WITH PARTS NUMBER DATABASE - A tool for use with a tire pressure monitor system includes a storing module configured to store a plurality of communication protocols used by the tire pressure monitor system to interface with a vehicle electronic control unit, the storing module further including a database having parts numbers of sensors utilized with the tire pressure monitor system, the database further includes a vehicle data associated with the tire pressure monitor system, a requesting module configured to request the vehicle data from the storing module, a receiving module configured to receive the vehicle data from the storing module, an accessing module configured to access the storing module to retrieve at least one communication protocol based on the vehicle data, a communications module to receive and transmit the at least one communication protocol to and from the electronic control unit and to and from a sensor, and a processor. | 06-30-2011 |
20110160953 | ERROR MESSAGE DETAILS FOR DEBUG AVAILABLE TO END USER - A diagnostic tool for diagnosing a vehicle, includes a signal translator communicating with the vehicle in at least one protocol, an input device for inputting information, a processor controlling a software according to the input information from the input device and communication with the vehicle from the signal translator, the processor controlling a reception of diagnostic data of the vehicle through the signal translator, a memory storing a software controlled by the processor, the memory storing information relating to the diagnostic tool and information relating to the configuration of the diagnostic tool and the configuration of the communication with the unit being tested, and an output unit connected to the processor indicating information according to the received and processed information relating to the diagnostic tool and information relating to the diagnosing of the vehicle. | 06-30-2011 |
20110146304 | INTERNAL CLEARING FUNCTION FOR A REFRIGERANT RECOVERY/RECHARGE MACHINE - An apparatus and method providing a refrigeration servicing system that comprises a clean refrigerant source, a recovery circuit and a flushing circuit. The recovery circuit can be configured to recover refrigerant from a cooling system. After recovery cycle is completed, the flushing circuit that is coupled to the recovery circuit can flush clean refrigerant through the recovery circuit. A housing can be provided and configured to house the refrigerant source, the recovery circuit and the flushing circuit. | 06-23-2011 |
20110134008 | Circularly-Polarized Antenna - A circularly-polarized antenna is provided, and includes a conductive backplane with a plurality of panels, a vertical array of patch radiators disposed on one of the backplane panels, and a feed stripline disposed on the backplane panel. The backplane panels are vertical, planar, rectangular and form a right prism. The vertical array has a radiator spacing of one wavelength, each radiator has a face and four edges, and each edge has a length of approximately one half wavelength. The feed stripline includes an input coupled to a coaxial feed cable, and a pair of outputs, orthogonal in position and phase, coupled to each of the radiators. | 06-09-2011 |
20110131783 | PULLER TOOL - A puller tool and method for pulling a component from another component are provided. The puller tool can include a cross bar, a pair of puller legs that are movable along the length of the cross bar and a forcing screw. The puller legs can be quickly positioned anywhere along the length of the cross bar through a quick release mechanism. The cross bar can include notches on its outer surface to ensure that the puller legs are equidistant from each other during use. | 06-09-2011 |
20110125366 | AUTOMOTIVE SCAN TOOL WITH ENHANCED AUDIO, VIDEO AND VOICE RECOGNITION FUNCTIONALITY - A diagnostic tool for a vehicle, includes a signal translator communicating with the vehicle in at least one protocol, an input unit for inputting information, a processor controlling a software according to the input information from the input unit and communication with the vehicle from the signal translator, the processor controlling a reception of diagnostic data of the vehicle through the signal translator, an input and output unit receiving and transmitting audio and video signals controlled by the processor, a memory storing a software controlled by the processor, the memory storing audio and video information, and transferring the audio and video information through the input and output unit; and a display unit displaying information according to the received and processed audio and video signals stored in the memory. | 05-26-2011 |
20110094247 | A/C Maintenance System Using Heat Transfer from the Condenser to the Oil Separator for Improved Efficiency - An apparatus and methodology are provided for advantageously increasing heat transfer between the evaporator/oil separator (“accumulator”) and condenser of a refrigerant recovery/recycling system, to increase the efficiency of the system and to simplify the system. Embodiments include a refrigerant recovery/recycling device comprising a compressor having a suction inlet and a discharge outlet; an accumulator fluidly connected to a refrigerant source and to the compressor suction inlet; a recovery tank fluidly connected to the compressor discharge outlet; and a heat exchanger for transferring heat from the recovery tank to the accumulator, for raising the temperature of the accumulator and lowering the temperature of the recovery tank. | 04-28-2011 |
20110073637 | Reflow Air Management System and Method - A reflow module of a reflow oven including a reflow fixture housed within a compartment of the reflow oven, removable side ports attached to the reflow fixture for controlling air flow through the reflow module and a chamber housing encasing the reflow fixture within the compartment of the reflow oven. A reflow oven incorporating the reflow module may include a reflow fixture having a plurality of air tubes and at least one orifice fixture plate removably attached to the reflow fixture, wherein the at least one orifice fixture plate includes a plurality of orifices for directing airflow into the plurality of air tubes. | 03-31-2011 |
20110061407 | BACKGROUND TANK FILL BASED ON REFRIGERANT COMPOSITION - A portable recovery unit for automatically filling a background tank of blended refrigerant includes a main tank for holding recovered refrigerant from a vehicle A/C system which has a first chemical composition, and an auxiliary tank for holding an auxiliary supply of fresh refrigerant which has a second refrigerant composition. The auxiliary tank is arranged in fluid communication with the main tank so that fluid can be transferred from the auxiliary tank to the main tank. An electronic controller controls the flow of fluid from the auxiliary tank to the main tank. A refrigerant identifier is coupled to the main tank to sample and analyze the refrigerant in the main tank in order to determine the chemical composition of the refrigerant in the main tank, so the refrigerant in the main tank can be purified to an acceptable level based on that analysis. | 03-17-2011 |
20110041540 | MODULAR UPGRADEABLE PNEUMATIC/HYDRAULIC MANIFOLD - An upgradeable A/C maintenance system and methodology is provided including one or more modular manifolds for mounting and fluidly connecting several components. Embodiments include first and second manifolds, each for removably mounting a plurality of components, and each comprising an internal passage for fluidly connecting at least two of the plurality of components to each other, and a port for fluidly connecting the internal passage to an external surface of the first manifold. The first and second manifolds are removably attachable to each other such that their respective ports fluidly communicate with each other. The first manifold provides a first functionality for the system when the second manifold is not attached to the first manifold, and the second manifold provides a second functionality different from the first functionality when the second manifold is attached to the first manifold. | 02-24-2011 |
20110015823 | DIAGNOSTIC TOOL WITH ADVANCED DIAGNOSTIC CAPABILITIES - A diagnostic tool for a vehicle, includes a signal translator communicating with the vehicle in at least one protocol, an input unit for inputting information, a processor controlling a software according to the input information and communication with the vehicle, the processor controlling a recording of diagnostic data of the vehicle through the signal translator, a memory storing a software including a database controlled by the processor, the memory storing baseline data of the vehicle and recorded diagnostic data in the database, the processor comparing the stored baseline data and recorded diagnostic data, and a display unit displaying information according to the comparison between the stored baseline data and recorded diagnostic data. The comparison can also be made on a separate computer storing the baseline data and receiving the recorded data from the diagnostic tool. | 01-20-2011 |
20110001583 | FILTER APPARATUS AND METHOD - A filter includes a cross-coupling link which includes a crossbar, a first vertical support attached to one end of the crossbar, a second vertical support attached to another end of the crossbar, a first coupling arm attached to the first vertical support, a second coupling arm attached to the second vertical support, a first adjustable support attached to the first coupling arm at one end and grounded at another end, and a second adjustable support attached to the second coupling arm at one end and grounded at another end. | 01-06-2011 |
20100324376 | Diagnostics Data Collection and Analysis Method and Apparatus - A medical diagnostic data collector/analyzer compiles historical vehicle diagnostic data, including measured vital signs from a number of different people from a variety of population types, and performs statistical analyses on various vital sign combinations to establish ranges corresponding to healthy individuals and various disease conditions. | 12-23-2010 |
20100293078 | Reverse Failure Analysis Method and Apparatus for Diagnostic Testing - A reverse failure analyzer determines a group of diagnostic test procedures related to a particular vehicle component from a pool of diagnostic procedures, and then identifies the specific failure modes of each of the diagnostic test procedures. The reverse failure analyzer further associates the specific failure modes with the respective vehicle component associated with each of the diagnostic test procedures, and the symptoms associated with each of the diagnostic test procedures to the correlated vehicle components and failure modes. In addition, the reverse failure analyzer can cross-reference various vehicle components that can be the root cause of a particular symptom or a vehicle operational problem. Furthermore, the reverse failure analyzer can receive observed symptoms regarding a particular test subject vehicle and correlate the observed symptoms to the vehicle components that can cause the symptoms based on the results of reverse failure analyses. | 11-18-2010 |
20100285888 | MIXING IMPELLER HUB APPARATUS AND METHOD - An impeller mounting apparatus and method have an elongated cylindrical shaft, a hub having a central aperture therethrough larger than the outer diameter of the shaft, with at least one first channel disposed on an inner circumference of the hub, having an end opening with a first diameter larger than the shaft, and at least one first elastomeric ring having a central circumference less than the outer circumference of the shaft, and adapted to fit over the shaft and inside the channel, thereby becoming outwardly expanded into the channel, the elastomeric ring further having a first ear that projects along the shaft adjacent the end opening, wherein the first ear is dimensioned so that upon expansion the ear does not completely fill the end opening. | 11-11-2010 |
20100263536 | Vacuum Filter Assembly - A filter assembly for mechanically removing silicon monoxide during a crystal growth run having a filter housing, a filter mounting plate attached to the filter housing, a sweep plate attached to the filter housing, a plurality of filter elements attached to the filter mounting plate, and a plurality of ring-shaped brushes mounted to the sweep plate, wherein at least one of the plurality of ring-shaped brushes surrounds each of the plurality of filter elements. Alternatively, a filter assembly for mechanically removing silicon monoxide during a crystal growth run having a filter housing having a upper portion, a lower portion and a central portion, a filter mounting plate attached to the filter housing proximate the upper portion, a plurality of filter elements attached to the filter mounting plate, and a cylindrical brush mounted in the center portion of the filter housing, wherein the cylindrical brush has a plurality of bristles pointing radially outward, said bristles contacting an outer portion of the plurality of filter elements. | 10-21-2010 |
20100229044 | Diagnostic Test Sequence Optimization Method and Apparatus - A method for optimizing a test sequence to diagnose a failure mode of a device, such as a vehicle, is provided. At least one symptom of a fault of the device is received, and a plurality of taxonomies is generated. The taxonomies include a device component taxonomy, a fault taxonomy, and a diagnostic taxonomy, and each taxonomy has a plurality of nodes. At least one diagnostic test sequence, based on the symptom and the taxonomies, is generated, costs associated with the diagnostic test sequence are determined, and a cost optimal test sequence, based on the costs and the diagnostic test sequence, is generated. | 09-09-2010 |
20100154406 | COOLING TOWER APPARATUS AND METHOD WITH WASTE HEAT UTILIZATION - A cooling tower system is provided that can exhibit increased energy efficiency. The cooling tower system includes a cooling tower unit, an expansion engine and a power operated component such as a fan or pump. The process fluid is first used to heat a working fluid for an expansion engine before being sent to the cooling tower for cooling. Power generated by the expansion engine is utilized to operate a component of the cooling tower such as a fan or a pump. The cooling tower is also utilized to provide cooling to condense the working fluid from a vapor to a liquid form cooling tower is used to remove waste heat from a process fluid. | 06-24-2010 |
20100134374 | Phased-Array Antenna Panel for a Super Economical Broadcast System - A phased-array antenna panel for a super economical broadcast system is provided. The phased-array antenna panel system includes an antenna panel support member, a first pair of striplines and a second pair of striplines. The antenna panel support member includes a front reflector surface to support first and second columns of constantly-spaced, crossed-dipole radiators, a first pair of signal ground cavities disposed beneath the first column of crossed-dipole radiators, a second pair of signal ground cavities disposed beneath the second column of crossed-dipole radiators, and a rear surface including first and second pairs of signal distribution cable connectors. The first pair of striplines are respectively disposed within the first pair of signal ground cavities and are coupled to the first pair of signal distribution connectors and the first column of crossed-dipole radiators. The second pair of striplines are respectively disposed within the second pair of signal ground cavities and are coupled to the second pair of signal distribution connectors and the second column of crossed-dipole radiators. | 06-03-2010 |
20100066637 | Broadcast Antenna Ellipticity Control Apparatus and Method - The present invention provides a phaser pack for an elliptically polarized antenna that includes a first structural component, a second structural component and a cylindrical inner conductor. The first structural component includes a recess, coupled to an input port, that forms a first portion of a cylindrical conductive path, while the second structural component includes a recess, coupled to a plurality of output ports, that forms a second portion of the cylindrical conductive path. The recesses of the first and second structural components form a continuous cylindrical conductive path when the first and second structural components are mated. The cylindrical inner conductor includes a plurality of tee junctions and a plurality of transition segments, coupled to the input port and the plurality of output ports, disposed within the continuous cylindrical conductive path to form a coaxial conductor that provides different phase delays to at least two of the plurality of output ports. | 03-18-2010 |
20100057388 | Digital Oscilloscope Module - The present invention provides a digital data acquisition module, such as a digital oscilloscope, that includes a synchronous random access memory (RAM), a digital signal processing unit, and a master control unit. The digital signal processing unit is coupled to the synchronous RAM and includes at least one analog-to-digital (A/D) converter that digitizes an analog signal, and a digital signal processor that includes a dual-port RAM, a plurality of processing blocks and a communications interface. The plurality of processing blocks process the digitized analog signal data, store the processed signal data in the synchronous RAM, create display data from the stored signal data, store the display data in the dual-port RAM. The master control unit is coupled to the digital signal processing unit and includes an internal communications interface coupled to the digital signal processor communications interface, an external communications interface and a central processing unit that receives the display data over the internal communications interface and transmits the display data over the external communications interface. | 03-04-2010 |
20100052653 | Digital Oscilloscope Module with Glitch Detection - The present invention provides a digital oscilloscope with glitch detection, including a synchronous random access memory (RAM), a digital signal processing unit, coupled to the synchronous RAM, and a master control unit coupled to the digital signal processing unit. The digital signal processing unit includes an analog-to-digital (A/D) converter to digitize an analog signal and a digital signal processor. The digital signal processor includes a dual-port RAM, a plurality of processing blocks to process the digitized analog signal data, detect glitches in the digitized analog signal data, store the processed signal data in the synchronous RAM, create display data from the stored signal data, and store the display data in the dual-port RAM, and a communications interface to transmit the stored display data. The master control unit includes an internal communications interface coupled to the digital signal processor communications interface, an external communications interface, and a central processing unit to receive the display data over the internal communications interface and transmit the display data over the external communications interface. | 03-04-2010 |
20100010702 | DYNAMIC DECISION SEQUENCING METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR OPTIMIING A DIAGNOSTIC TEST PLAN - A diagnostic tool and a computer-implemented method for generating testing and diagnosis procedures for vehicle diagnosis include determining if a first procedure remains to be performed, if a first procedure remains to be performed, then determining whether: there is a second procedure dependent on the first procedure, or the first procedure can run in parallel to the second procedure, if there is a second procedure dependent on the first procedure, then performing the first procedure, if the first procedure can run in parallel to the second procedure, then performing the first procedure, and determining if the second procedure remains to be performed. | 01-14-2010 |
20090305710 | Super Economical Broadcast System and Method - A super economical broadcast system and method are provided. The system includes a plurality of base transceiver stations that define a plurality of respective cells, each base transceiver station includes a phased-array antenna having a plurality of sectors, each sector has a plurality of vertically-arranged antenna panels, and each antenna panel has a plurality of vertically-arranged radiators disposed in at least two staggered columns. The method includes forming a horizontally and vertically shaped beam using a plurality of vertically-arranged antenna panels, in which each antenna panel has a plurality of vertically-arranged radiators disposed in at least two staggered columns, and transmitting a power distribution that has an essentially uniform field strength over a near zone, a middle zone and at least a portion of a far zone. | 12-10-2009 |
20090304488 | Engine Filter Lifting Device - A lifting device for raising and lowering a component of a vehicle for maintenance is provided. The lifting device includes a base with a plurality of legs, a fixed support arm attached to the base, a movable support arm rotatably attached to the fixed support arm, a device attached to the fixed and movable support arms, such as a long arm jack, to raise and lower the movable support arm, and an articulated gripper attached to an end of the movable support arm. | 12-10-2009 |
20090300548 | Multi-Display Window with Scroll Ring Input - A graphical user interface for a portable diagnostic device includes a first window area in which a navigation bar is displayed, a second window area in which data list items are displayed and a wheel menu, selectively overlaying at least a portion of the first and second window areas, in which menu items are displayed. The data list items are selected in response to commands received from a first scroll ring input device, while the menu items are selected in response to commands received from a second scroll ring input device. | 12-03-2009 |
20090299539 | Power Balancing for Vehicle Diagnostic Tools - A power balancing system includes a vehicle communication device connected to a data link connector of a vehicle, and a scan tool connected to the vehicle communication device, the scan tool including a handset and a vehicle connector interface (VCI), wherein power can be received from one or more of an external power source being external from the VCI, the vehicle, and an internal power supply of the scan tool, and wherein the system balances the received power. | 12-03-2009 |
20090289756 | Diagnostic Connector Power for Tablet/Laptop PCs - An adapter for coupling a vehicle communication interface device and a computer processing device to a signal source comprises a first port configured for communication with the communication interface device and a second port configured for communication with the computer processing device. The adapter can include a receptacle configured to receive signals having a data portion and a power portion. The adapter can further identify the received signals as being one of vehicle signals or computer signals. Moreover, the adapter can include a relay having a first state associated with the vehicle signals for relaying the vehicle signals between the first port and the signal source and a second state associated with the computer signals for relaying the computer signals between the second port and the signal source. The relay can be selectively placed in one of the first and the second states associated with the received signals as identified by the receptacle. | 11-26-2009 |
20090284325 | Phased-Array Antenna Filter and Diplexer for a Super Economical Broadcast System - A phased-array antenna filter and diplexer for a super economical broadcast system are provided. The filter and diplexer includes a signal divider tee diplexer, a receive filter and a transmit filter. The diplexer includes a tee branch point, an antenna port, a transmit port and a receive port. The receive filter includes a flat, multi-pole bandpass filter, an input port and an output port, where the input port is coupled to the diplexer receive port to define a receive signal path, from the tee branch point to the receive input port, that has a length of approximately one quarter receive wavelength. The transmit filter includes a folded, multi-pole bandpass filter, an input port and an output port, where the output port is coupled to the diplexer transmit port to define a transmit signal path, from the tee branch point to the transmit output port, that has a length of approximately one quarter transmit wavelength. | 11-19-2009 |
20090276117 | Simultaneous Vehicle Protocol Communication Apparatus and Method - A diagnostic tool for simultaneously communicating with a plurality of motor vehicle control units and implements at least two different communication protocols within a single motor vehicle. The diagnostic tool includes a processor and a field programmable gate array. The processor simultaneously executes a plurality of diagnostic routines and thereby provides messages to at least two of the plurality of motor vehicle control units. The field programmable gate array provides a selectable multiple protocol interface to simultaneously accommodating the at least two different communication protocols. The field programmable gate array is coupled between the plurality of motor vehicle control units and the processor. The selectable multiple protocol interface simultaneously converts the messages from the processor into a format readable by the selected motor vehicle control units and simultaneously converting received control unit information into a format readable by the processor. | 11-05-2009 |
20090267856 | Phased-Array Antenna Radiator Parasitic Element for a Super Economical Broadcast System - A parasitic element for a phased-array antenna radiator is provided. The radiator comprises a first dipole radiator including two coplanar monopole radiating elements disposed symmetrically about a radiation axis, a second dipole radiator, arranged orthogonally with respect to the first dipole radiator, including two coplanar radiating elements disposed symmetrically about the radiation axis, and a parasitic gain element, having a substantially elliptical shape, disposed above the first and second dipole radiators and centered on the radiation axis. | 10-29-2009 |
20090262039 | Phased-Array Antenna Radiator for a Super Economical Broadcast System - A phased-array antenna radiator for a super economical cellular communication system is provided. The phased-array antenna radiator comprises two dipole radiators. The first dipole radiator includes a first monopole radiating element supported by a first outer conductor, a second monopole radiating element supported by a second outer conductor, a first inner conductor, disposed within the first outer conductor and extending therethrough, having an upper termination, a first feed strap, attached to the upper termination of the first inner conductor, and a first stub, disposed within the second outer conductor and attached to the first feed strap. The second dipole radiator includes a third monopole radiating element supported by a third outer conductor, a fourth monopole radiating element supported by a fourth outer conductor, a second inner conductor, disposed within the third outer conductor and extending therethrough, having an upper termination, a second feed strap, attached to the upper termination of the second inner conductor, and a second stub, disposed within the fourth outer conductor and attached to the second feed strap. | 10-22-2009 |
20090250410 | DUAL MEDIA FLUID FILTER - A filter apparatus has a housing, an inlet port on one side of the housing and an outlet port on an opposed side of the housing. Sheet media is disposed in the housing having a first opening through the sheet media. Also dispersed in the housing is a bag media comprising an enclosed bag with a second opening into the bag. The first opening and the second opening are connected in fluid communication with each other and the sheet media is disposed before the bag media in the direction of flow through the housing so that both media are mounted inside the housing. Some fluid entering the inlet passes through both openings and through the bag media and into the outlet, and other fluid entering the inlet passes through the sheet media and then to the outlet. | 10-08-2009 |
20090249868 | Starter Zero Current Test Apparatus and Method - An alternator and starter tester system having a starter current zero test. The current is measured before and after a solenoid of a starter motor is energized and deenergized to determine if the starter motor should be failed. This allows the operator to quickly determine if the starter motor is stuck on during normal starter motor testing. | 10-08-2009 |
20090237086 | MODULAR HEAVY LOAD BATTERY TEST SYSTEM - A modular heavy load battery test system is provided. The system includes a heavy load module and a battery tester. The heavy load module includes a housing, first and second lengths of high-resistivity, large-gauge wire arranged on respective upper and lower surfaces of a heat-resistant support plate, a switch and at least one cooling fan. The battery tester includes a housing, a microcontroller and a set of battery charging wires. The microcontroller selects the configuration of the first and second wires and provides the control signal to the heavy load module, while the switch selectively connects the first and second wires to the battery tester based upon the control signal. | 09-24-2009 |
20090237029 | INDUCTIVE BATTERY CHARGER FOR SERVICE EQUIPMENT - An inductive battery charging system for a handheld service tool is provided. The system includes a battery charger and a handheld service tool. The battery charger has a primary coil enclosed within a housing, and which is coupled to a power source. The service tool includes a secondary coil, enclosed within a housing, that provides at least 100 mA of inductively-generated alternating current, a rectifier, a linear voltage regulator, a battery charge controller and a battery. | 09-24-2009 |