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Небесная энциклопедия

Космические корабли и станции, автоматические КА и методы их проектирования, бортовые комплексы управления, системы и средства жизнеобеспечения, особенности технологии производства ракетно-космических систем

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Мониторинг СМИ

Мониторинг СМИ и социальных сетей. Сканирование интернета, новостных сайтов, специализированных контентных площадок на базе мессенджеров. Гибкие настройки фильтров и первоначальных источников.

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Применить Всего найдено 2983. Отображено 101.

11-04-2019 дата публикации

DRIVE SYSTEM COMPRISING AT LEAST ONE METAL ELEMENT EXHIBITING SHAPE MEMORY PROPERTIES

Номер: WO2019068648A1

Автор: PATTEN, Werner

Принадлежит:

The invention relates to a drive system (100; 200; 300) based on the cyclical conversion of thermal energy into mechanical or electrical energy using a temperature difference between at least two media (M1, M2) and the contraction of a metal element exhibiting shape memory properties. According to the invention, the drive system (100; 200; 300) comprises a first and a second store (11; 12) containing media (M1, M2) at different temperatures (T1, T2), the second store (12) having a passage (36) for direct connection through the bottom (18) of the housing (34). The housing (34) is a cylinder (10) containing a cylinder piston (15) arranged in a liquid-tight and gas-tight manner and dividing the cylinder (10) into two cylinder spaces (14; 16) of variable volumes, one cylinder space (14) containing the metal element (20) and the other cylinder space (16) containing the restoring element (37). The metal element (20) is secured to a fixing point (A) on the cylinder piston (15) and to a fixing ...

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Номер записи: 1

05-09-2018 дата публикации

Сферический генератор

Номер: RU0000182859U1

Автор: Алексей Михайлович Веселов, Вячеслав Евгеньевич Вавилов, Руслан Рустемович Уразбахтин, Флюр Рашитович Исмагилов

Принадлежит: федеральное государственное бюджетное образовательное учреждение высшего образования "Уфимский государственный авиационный технический университет"

Использование: полезная модель относится к областям электротехники и электроэнергетики. Технический результат: повышение эффективности установок, которые используются для преобразования энергии потока газа в электроэнергию, в связи с применением ротора сферической формы. Сущность полезной модели: сферический генератор, содержащий постоянные магниты и аэродинамические ребра, содержит аэродинамическую турбину, выполненную в виде ротора сферической формы, на полюсах которого размещены постоянные магниты, и на котором выполнены аэродинамические ребра для обеспечения вращения ротора, крепления для постоянного кольцевого магнита, трубу с потоком газа и крепления для установки сферического генератора в трубу с потоком газа. РОССИЙСКАЯ ФЕДЕРАЦИЯ (19) RU (11) (13) 182 859 U1 (51) МПК H02N 99/00 (2006.01) ФЕДЕРАЛЬНАЯ СЛУЖБА ПО ИНТЕЛЛЕКТУАЛЬНОЙ СОБСТВЕННОСТИ (12) ОПИСАНИЕ ПОЛЕЗНОЙ МОДЕЛИ К ПАТЕНТУ (52) СПК H02N 99/00 (2006.01) (21)(22) Заявка: 2018119571, 28.05.2018 (24) Дата начала отсчета срока действия патента: Дата регистрации: 05.09.2018 (45) Опубликовано: 05.09.2018 Бюл. № 25 1 8 2 8 5 9 R U (54) СФЕРИЧЕСКИЙ ГЕНЕРАТОР (57) Реферат: Использование: полезная модель относится к областям электротехники и электроэнергетики. Технический результат: повышение эффективности установок, которые используются для преобразования энергии потока газа в электроэнергию, в связи с применением ротора сферической формы. Сущность полезной модели: сферический генератор, содержащий постоянные магниты и Стр.: 1 (56) Список документов, цитированных в отчете о поиске: RU 2560238 C1, 20.08.2015. RU 2180431 C2, 10.03.2002. WO 1998025082 A1, 11.06.1998. US 5542762 A1, 06.08.1996. аэродинамические ребра, содержит аэродинамическую турбину, выполненную в виде ротора сферической формы, на полюсах которого размещены постоянные магниты, и на котором выполнены аэродинамические ребра для обеспечения вращения ротора, крепления для постоянного кольцевого магнита, трубу с потоком газа и крепления для установки ...

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Номер записи: 2

28-06-2012 дата публикации

Endoscope system and method for controlling endoscope actuator

Номер: US20120162402A1

Автор: Shoichi Amano, Takayuki YABUKI, Yutaka Fujisawa

Принадлежит: OLYMPUS MEDICAL SYSTEMS CORP

An endoscope system includes: an actuator having an SMA wire and driving a moving member for moving a lens; an output control circuit; a detection circuit; and a CPU. The CPU outputs a driving signal to the output control circuit, on a basis of an instruction to move the lens, and on the basis of a position of the moving member corresponding to a resistance value detected by the detection circuit. In response to a moving instruction to move the lens from a far-point position to a near-point position, the CPU outputs the driving signal so that a current for moving the moving member from the far-point position to a position beyond the near-point position is passed through the SMA wire to heat the SMA wire. The CPU then performs preheating control, holding constant current transition control, and reheating control.

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Номер записи: 3

26-07-2012 дата публикации

Self-aligning termination for memory alloy wire

Номер: US20120187144A1

Автор: Frank Dean Weber, Henricus Mari RUYTEN, Thomas Kmetiko

Принадлежит: CareFusion 303 Inc

A self-aligning memory alloy wire actuator has a memory alloy wire having first and second ends with at least one terminal coupled to one end of the memory alloy wire. The terminal includes two wings and an extended piece connected in the shape of a T. The two wings are disposed on opposite sides of the extended piece and perpendicular to the extended piece. Each wing comprises top and bottom surfaces, a front surface, and an outside end. The top surfaces of the two wings lie on a common top plane and the front surfaces of the two wings lie on a common front plane. The memory alloy wire is coupled to the extended piece of the terminal.

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Номер записи: 4

16-08-2012 дата публикации

Drive Unit and Drive Module

Номер: US20120206615A1

Автор: Natsuko Shiota, Takeshi Aoi, Yasutaka Tanimura, Yoshihiro Hara

Принадлежит: Konica Minolta Opto Inc

To provide a drive unit and a drive module which include a shape memory alloy as a drive source to move a driven member and are capable of the high-precision movement of the driven member to a reference position. A drive unit and a drive module can be provided by controlling, in the drive unit and the drive module which include the shape memory alloy as the drive source to move the driven member, the shape memory alloy so that the resistance of the shape memory alloy is equal to the resistance when the driven member is located at the reference position.

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Номер записи: 5

30-08-2012 дата публикации

Method of starting and operating a shape memory alloy heat engine

Номер: US20120216525A1

Автор: Alan L. Browne, Andrew C. Keefe, Christopher Burton Churchill, Guillermo A. Herrera, Jeffrey W. Brown, John Andrew Shaw, Nancy L. Johnson, Nilesh D. Mankame, Paul W. Alexander, Richard J. Skurkis

Принадлежит: Dynalloy Inc, GM GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS LLC, University of Michigan

A shape memory alloy (SMA) heat engine includes a first rotatable pulley, a second rotatable pulley, and an SMA material disposed about the first and second rotatable pulleys and between a hot region and a cold region. A method of starting and operating the SMA heat engine includes detecting a thermal energy gradient between the hot region and the cold region using a controller, decoupling an electrical generator from one of the first and second rotatable pulleys, monitoring a speed of the SMA material about the first and second rotatable pulleys, and re-engaging the driven component if the monitored speed of the SMA material exceeds a threshold. The SMA material may selectively change crystallographic phase between martensite and austenite and between the hot region and the cold region to convert the thermal gradient into mechanical energy.

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Номер записи: 6

30-08-2012 дата публикации

Shape memory alloy heat engines and energy harvesting systems

Номер: US20120216526A1

Автор: Alan L. Browne, Andrew C. Keefe, Christopher Burton Churchill, Geoffrey P. Mc Knight, Guillermo A. Herrera, John Andrew Shaw, Nancy L. Johnson, Nilesh D. Mankame, Paul W. Alexander, Peter Maxwell Sarosi, Richard J. Skurkis, Wayne Brown

Принадлежит: Dynalloy Inc, GM GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS LLC, University of Michigan

An energy harvesting system in thermal communication with a hot region and a cold region includes a hot end heat engine in thermal communication with the hot region, a cold end heat engine in thermal communication with the cold region, and an intermediate heat engine disposed between the hot end heat engine and the cold end heat engine. The hot end heat engine includes a hot end shape memory alloy (SMA) element, the cold end heat engine includes a cold end SMA element disposed, and the intermediate heat engine includes an intermediate SMA element. A hot side of the intermediate SMA element is in thermal communication with a cold side of the hot end SMA element. A cold side of the intermediate SMA element is in thermal communication with a hot side of the cold end SMA element.

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Номер записи: 7

30-08-2012 дата публикации

Shape memory alloy heat engines and energy harvesting systems

Номер: US20120216527A1

Автор: Alan L. Browne, Andrew C. Keffe, Chirstopher Burton Churchill, Geoffrey P. Mc Knight, Guillermo A. Herrera, James Ryan Yates, Jeffrey W. Brown, John Andrew Shaw, Nancy L. Johnson, Paul W. Alexander

Принадлежит: Dynalloy Inc, GM GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS LLC, University of Michigan

A heat engine includes a first rotatable pulley and a second rotatable pulley spaced from the first rotatable pulley. A shape memory alloy (SMA) element is disposed about respective portions of the pulleys at an SMA pulley ratio. The SMA element includes a first wire, a second wire, and a matrix joining the first wire and the second wire. The first wire and the second wire are in contact with the pulleys, but the matrix is not in contact with the pulleys. A timing cable is disposed about respective portions of the pulleys at a timing pulley ratio, which is different than the SMA pulley ratio. The SMA element converts a thermal energy gradient between the hot region and the cold region into mechanical energy.

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Номер записи: 8

14-02-2013 дата публикации

Intraocular pressure monitoring device

Номер: US20130041245A1

Автор: Sacha Cerboni

Принадлежит: SENSIMED SA

An intraocular pressure monitoring device has a soft contact lens and a pressure sensor united with the contact lens, the pressure sensor comprising an active strain gage, a passive gage, a rigid element and a microprocessor. The active strain gage, passive gage and rigid element are placed at a distance from the center of the contact lens, the active strain gage comprising a portion encircling the center of the contact lens on at least 180°, wherein the passive gage and the rigid element each comprise a portion encircling the center of the contact lens on at least 180°, and wherein the portion of the passive gage situated around the center of the contact lens is placed in immediate vicinity of the portion of the rigid element situated around the center of the contact lens. A kit has such a pressure monitoring device and a portable recording device configured for communicating with the pressure monitoring device and for storing data received from it. An intraocular pressure monitoring system has such a kit and a computing device configured for communicating with the portable recording device for receiving and/or processing and/or storing data received from the portable recording device.

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Номер записи: 9

14-03-2013 дата публикации

Active twist hollow beam system

Номер: US20130064666A1

Автор: James P. Thomas, Michael J. O'Brien, William R. Pogue, III

Принадлежит: US Department of Navy

A system for actively controlling the span-wise rotational twist of a hollow beam along its longitudinal axis, including a hollow beam structure having a leading edge and a trailing edge region, the beam being split along its length, an actuator arranged between split surfaces of the beam, the actuator adapted to move the split surfaces in a longitudinal direction relative to each other, inducing a twist in the beam. The hollow beam is affixed to an external structure at one or both ends, with only the zero warping displacement points of the beam being attached to the external structure, material or device. In one embodiment, the actuator is a plurality of solid blocks with high thermal expansion coefficients arranged between frames of the split surfaces of the beam, with alternating blocks being heated by resistance heaters to cause expansion in the spanwise longitudinal direction.

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Номер записи: 10

04-04-2013 дата публикации

DEVICE FOR GENERATING CURRENT AND/OR VOLTAGE BASED ON A THERMOELECTRIC MODULE PLACED IN A FLOWING FLUID

Номер: US20130082466A1

Автор: Caroff Tristan, Simon Julia

Принадлежит: Commissariat A L'Energie Atomique Et Aux Energies Alternatives

The device for generating current and/or voltage includes means for making a fluid flow between an inlet and an outlet of the device, and a thermoelectric module having a first active surface exposed to the fluid. The thermoelectric module includes apertures, and is placed in the path of the fluid between the inlet and the outlet of the device, the first active surface being substantially perpendicular to the direction of flow of the fluid. 17-. (canceled)8. A device for generating current and/or voltage comprising:a device configured for making a fluid flow between an inlet and an outlet of the device, a thermally insulating substrate provided with a first active surface exposed to the fluid and a second active surface opposite to the first active surface, the first active surface being substantially perpendicular to a direction of flow of the fluid,', 'pass-through apertures made in the substrate,', 'a plurality of thermocouples, each thermocouple comprising two electrically conducting bumps electrically connected to one another on the first active surface of the thermoelectric module to form a hot junction or a cold junction, the thermocouples being electrically connected in series on the second active surface of the module to form a cold junction or a hot junctions., 'a thermoelectric module placed in a path of the fluid between the inlet and the outlet, the thermoelectric module comprising9. The device according to claim 8 , comprising a heat exchanger in thermal contact with the second active surface of the thermoelectric module.10. The device according to claim 9 , wherein the heat exchanger comprises a water circulation heat sink.11. The device according to claim 8 , comprising a heat exchange device arranged on the first active surface.12. The device according to claim 8 , wherein the thermoelectric module comprises a matrix of pass-through apertures connecting the first active surface to the second active surface claim 8 , a thermocouple bump being ...

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Номер записи: 11

02-05-2013 дата публикации

Linear actuator device

Номер: US20130104680A1

Автор: Marcelo COLLADO, Néstor NAVA, Ramiro Cabas, Ramiro MENA

Принадлежит: ARQUIMEA INGENIERIA SL

The invention relates to a linear actuator device comprising a shaft ( 1 ) which can be displaced with respect to a casing ( 3 ), where said shaft ( 1 ) can be located in a first position in which it is actuated by elastic means ( 4 ), being maintained immobile by contact with a support element ( 5 ) which conveys its load to an intermediate element ( 6 ) which in turn conveys its load to an activating element ( 7 ); the shaft ( 1 ) being able to be located in a second position, in which the activating element ( 7 ) is rotated with respect to its position in the first position, such that said intermediate element ( 6 ) is housed in a housing ( 8 ) which the activating element ( 7 ) has, which allows displacing the support element ( 5 ) such that the shaft ( 1 ) is not in contact with said support element ( 5 ).

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Номер записи: 12

16-05-2013 дата публикации

Thermal Engine Capable of Utilizing Low Temperature Sources of Heat

Номер: US20130118172A1

Автор: Tice Neil

Принадлежит:

A heat-driven engine includes a thermally conductive path into the engine, from a heat source and a working medium of a thermostrictive material, having a first temperature of transformation, positioned adjacent to the thermally conductive path. Also, a heat pump of phase change material is positioned adjacent to the working medium and an actuator is controlled to apply stimulus to the heat pump, causing a phase change and an associated release of thermal energy, to drive the working medium above its low-to-high temperature of transformation and controlled to alternatingly remove the stimulus from the heat pump, causing the phase change to reverse, and an associated intake of thermal energy, to drive the working medium below its high-to-low temperature of transformation. Also, heat flow through the thermally conductive path maintains the working medium at a temperature range permitting the heat pump to drive the working medium temperature, in the manner noted. 1. A heat-driven engine comprising(a) a thermally conductive path into said engine, from a heat source;(b) a working medium that includes a working medium phase-change material with phase-dependent volume, having a low-to-high temperature of transformation and a high-to-low temperature of transformation, positioned adjacent to said thermally conductive path;(c) a heat pump that includes a heat pump phase change material positioned adjacent to said working medium;(d) an actuator controlled to apply stimulus to said heat pump, causing a phase change and an associated release of thermal energy, to drive said working medium above said low-to-high temperature of transformation and controlled to alternatingly remove said stimulus from said heat pump, causing said phase change to reverse, and an associated intake of thermal energy, to drive said working medium below said high-to-low temperature of transformation; and(e) wherein, heat flow through said thermally conductive path maintains said working medium at a ...

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Номер записи: 13

13-06-2013 дата публикации

DEHUMIDIFIER SYSTEM AND METHOD

Номер: US20130146437A1

Автор: ELLER Michael R., MAURER Scott M., NAGURNY Nicholas J.

Принадлежит: LOCKHEED MARTIN CORPORATION

A condenser or heat exchanger includes a circulation system for moving a cooling fluid, and a graphite foam in thermal communication with the circulation system. The condenser or heat exchanger can be used to remove water, or more particularly freshwater from humid air in tropical, subtropical, and arid climates. 1. A condenser comprising:a circulation system for moving a cooling fluid; anda graphite foam in thermal communication with the circulation system.2. A heat exchanger comprising:a circulation system for moving a cooling fluid through the heat exchanger; anda graphite foam in thermal communication with the circulation system.3. The heat exchanger of wherein the circulation system further comprises multi-hollow extruded (MHE) tubes claim 2 , the graphite foam substantially bonded to an exterior surface of the MHE.4. The heat exchanger of further comprising a fluid handling device for moving a cooling fluid through the MHE claim 3 , wherein humid air condenses on the exterior surface or the graphite foam to produce substantially desalinated water.5. The heat exchanger of further comprising at least one air handling device for moving air from an ambient environment into contact with graphite foam claim 2 , the graphite foam maintained at a temperature below the dewpoint of the air by thermal communication with the cooling fluid.6. The heat exchanger of wherein the heat exchanger is positioned to capture a prevailing wind claim 2 , the wind moving ambient air over the heat exchanger.7. The heat exchanger of further comprising a shell enclosure claim 2 , the heat exchanger operating at a low pressure so that the shell is made of a fiberglass material.8. The heat exchanger of further comprising a shell enclosure made of a metal to meet ASME code.9. The heat exchanger of wherein the graphite foam has channels therein for increasing surface area.10. The heat exchanger of wherein the graphite foam is bonded to condenser tubes with thermally conductive adhesive.11. ...

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Номер записи: 14

13-06-2013 дата публикации

Sclera sensor

Номер: US20130150699A1

Автор: Max Ostermeier, Stefan Meyer

Принадлежит: IMPLANDATA OPHTHALMIC PRODUCTS GMBH

The invention relates to an implantable measuring device ( 1 ) for measuring the intraocular pressure at an ocular sclera ( 2 ), having pressure sensor means ( 5, 7 ) embedded in a pressure-transmitting housing ( 6 ) for biocompatible contacting of the ocular sclera ( 2 ), having at least one, preferably substantially flat, pressure sensor area ( 7 ) that allows for a reliable measurement of the intraocular pressure and is operatively easy to insert, in as much as possible, while avoiding the disadvantages of the prior art, wherein it is proposed that the housing ( 6 ) is configured with dimensionally stable elasticity.

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Номер записи: 15

20-06-2013 дата публикации

POWER GENERATION SYSTEM

Номер: US20130152578A1

Автор: Solem Sigurd

Принадлежит: YELLOW SHARK HOLDING APS

A power generation system in which a thermally expandable fluid, e.g., R134a, CO, is circulated in a loop between a first location and a second location, the second location being at a higher elevation than the first location. The fluid is heated at the first location to expand it, so that it rises to the second location where it is cooled and contracted. The cooled fluid, being denser, then falls back to the first location under hydrostatic pressure, causing a circular fluid flow. This flow is used to generate power in a power transfer system. The system is regulated so that the fluid does not flash to a vapor, i.e., the fluid does not change state, which improves the efficiency of the system. The system is suitable for use in any situation where a height difference exists, and is particularly suited for geothermal heating sources. 1. A power generation system comprising:a heat source provided at a first location;a heat sink provided at a second location, wherein said second location is elevated relative to said first location;first fluid communication means extending from said heat sink to said heat source;a power transfer system in fluid communication with said heat sink; andsecond fluid communication means extending from said heat source to said power transfer system, wherein said fluid communication means are operable to circulate a thermally expandable fluid in a loop between said first and second locations, said fluid circulated from said first location, where it is heated and expanded by said heat source, in an upwards direction through said second fluid communication means to said second location, where it passes through said power transfer system and is cooled and contracted by said heat sink, and in a downwards direction through said first fluid communication means back to said first location, the circulation of said fluid operable to drive said power transfer system to generate power,characterised in that said power generation system further comprises a ...

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Номер записи: 16

27-06-2013 дата публикации

STIRLING ENGINE FOR AN EMISSION-FREE AIRCRAFT

Номер: US20130160451A1

Автор: SEIFERT Jost

Принадлежит: EADS DEUTSCHLAND GmbH

Aircraft with an emission-free drive and method for emission-free driving of an aircraft. The aircraft includes a drive device structured and arranged to generate thrust, a lift device structured and arranged to generate lift, and a heat engine structured and arranged to convert thermal energy into kinetic energy to drive the drive device. The heat engine includes at least one flat-plate Stirling engine drivable by solar thermal radiation. 1. An aircraft with an emission-free drive , comprising:a drive device structured and arranged to generate thrust;a lift device structured and arranged to generate lift; anda heat engine structured and arranged to convert thermal energy into kinetic energy to drive the drive device,wherein the heat engine comprises at least one flat-plate Stirling engine drivable by solar thermal radiation.2. The aircraft according to claim 1 , wherein the lift device comprises a wing device with an airfoil section structured and arranged to generate lift claim 1 , and the flat-plate Stirling engine is arranged in the wing device.3. The aircraft according to claim 1 , wherein the flat-plate Stirling engine comprises:a working chamber filled with a working gas and having a top and an underside and a changeable working volume;a displacer structured and arranged to be moveable in the working chamber between the top and the underside;a regenerator structured and arranged in the working chamber to collect and deliver thermal energy contained in the working gas;a working piston connected to change a working volume of the working chamber;an inertia element structured and arranged in a rotatable manner;a drive structured and arranged to be connectable to the inertia element to drive the drive device; anda transmission device structured and arranged to mechanically couple the displacer and the working piston with the inertia element,wherein the working chamber is located in the lift device and the working gas is heatable from a top of the lift device by ...

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Номер записи: 17

11-07-2013 дата публикации

DISK RESONATOR AND ELECTRONIC COMPONENT

Номер: US20130175897A1

Автор: Kimura Noritoshi, OHTSUKA Takahiro

Принадлежит: NIHON DEMPA KOGYO CO., LTD.

A contour mode disk resonator includes a substrate, a disk-shaped vibration plate, a pair of input electrodes, a pair of output electrodes, a supporting joist with one end, and an absorbing portion. The pair of input electrodes is disposed to face one another via the vibration plate in a planar view. The pair of output electrodes is disposed to face one another via the vibration plate in a direction intersecting with a direction where the pair of input electrodes faces one another in the planar view. The one end is integrally secured to a portion corresponding to a vibration node that occurs by a contour vibration in an outer periphery of the vibration plate. The supporting joist includes an absorbing portion configured to absorb strain energy generated by the contour vibration in the supporting joist. 1. A contour mode disk resonator , comprising:a substrate;a disk-shaped vibration plate, being supported above the substrate so as to face the substrate via a clearance, a bias voltage being to be applied to the vibration plate;a pair of input electrodes, disposed to face one another via the vibration plate in a planar view, so as to vibrate the vibration plate in a wine glass mode;a pair of output electrodes, disposed to face one another via the vibration plate in a direction intersecting with a direction where the pair of input electrodes face one another in the planar view, so as to obtain an output signal based on a vibration of the vibration plate; anda supporting joist with one end, the one end being integrally secured to a portion corresponding to a vibration node, the vibration node occurring by a contour vibration in an outer periphery of the vibration plate, wherein,the supporting joist includes an absorbing portion configured to absorb strain energy generated by the contour vibration in the supporting joist.2. The disk resonator according to claim 1 , whereinthe supporting joist extends outward in a radial direction of the vibration plate,the supporting ...

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Номер записи: 18

11-07-2013 дата публикации

Mems actuator device with integrated temperature sensors

Номер: US20130175952A1

Автор: Niladri Sarkar

Принадлежит: ICSPI Corp

An electro-thermal actuator which includes a unit cell comprising at least one thermal bimorph, the thermal bimorph comprising at least two materials of different thermal expansion coefficient bonded together, the unit cell having a first end and a second end; and at least one temperature sensor located on the at least one thermal bimorph for measuring a temperature of the at least one thermal bimorph and determining a position of the unit cell. The basic structure can be expanded to 1-D, 2-D and 3-D positioners. The bimorphs can also be coupled to an active yoke which is in turn anchored to a plate, in order to reduce the parasitic heat effects on displacement of the tip of the bimorph.

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Номер записи: 19

15-08-2013 дата публикации

Devices and Methods for Noninvasive Measurement of Intracranial Pressure

Номер: US20130211285A1

Автор: Fuller Terry A., Lai William

Принадлежит:

Provided are systems and methods for noninvasively assessing intracranial pressure by controllably osculating at least a portion of a subject's ocular globe while applying a force sufficient to collapse an intraocular blood vessel and correlating the collapse pressure to intracranial pressure. Also provided are ophthalmic components useful in ophthalmic imaging applications, such as retinal, corneal, and pupil imaging. The components may include an optical contact surface that has a radius of curvature that is greater than the radius of curvature of a subject's cornea. 1. An ophthalmic component , comprising:a body having an osculating surface adapted to osculate a subject's ocular globe, andthe body being adapted to engage with an instrument.2. The ophthalmic component of claim 1 , wherein the osculating surface is characterized as being a concave optical surface having a radius of curvature.3. The ophthalmic component of claim 2 , wherein the radius of curvature of the concave optical surface is greater than the radius of curvature of a subject's cornea.4. The ophthalmic component of claim 2 , wherein the radius of curvature of the concave optical surface is greater than about 7 mm.5. The ophthalmic component of claim 1 , wherein the osculating surface comprises a deformable material.6. The ophthalmic component of claim 1 , wherein the component defines an enclosed control volume in mechanical communication with the osculating surface.7. The ophthalmic component of claim 6 , wherein the control volume is configured to be pressurized while in contact with a subject's ocular globe.8. The ophthalmic component of claim 6 , further comprising a passage placing the control volume into fluid communication with the environment exterior to the control volume.9. The ophthalmic component of claim 1 , wherein the osculating surface comprises a material having a thickness in the range of from about 0.005 inches to about 0.060 inches.10. The ophthalmic component of claim 1 , ...

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Номер записи: 20

05-09-2013 дата публикации

Shape memory alloy actuators with sensible coatings

Номер: US20130227943A1

Автор: Andrew M. Mance, Martin P. Sulic

Принадлежит: GM GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS LLC

Methods of applying sensible coatings with at least one spatially-varying characteristic to shape memory alloy actuators, particularly actuators comprising linear elements such as wires strips or cables, are disclosed. Such coatings enable the positions of the linear shape memory alloy elements to be sensed using magnetic, capacitive and optical sensors and so, in conjunction with a controller, enable operation of such actuators under proportional control.

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Номер записи: 21

19-09-2013 дата публикации

Active material actuator having a magnetorheological overload protector

Номер: US20130240320A1

Автор: Alan L. Browne

Принадлежит: GM GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS LLC

A system for and method of providing overload protection for actuators, such as shape memory alloy wires, including and utilizing a magnetorheological fluid mechanism connected in series with or parallel to the load driven by the actuator, and operable to effect tunable protection.

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Номер записи: 22

03-10-2013 дата публикации

THERMALLY-CONTROLLED COMPONENT AND THERMAL CONTROL PROCESS

Номер: US20130255248A1

Автор: ARNETT Michael Douglas, Dimascio Paul Stephen, Hefner Rebecca Evelyn

Принадлежит: GENERAL ELECTRIC COMPANY

A thermally-controlled component and thermal control process are disclosed. The thermally-controlled component includes thermally-responsive features. The thermally-responsive features are configured to modify a flow path to control temperature variation of the thermally-controlled component. The thermally-responsive features deploy from or retract toward a surface of the thermally-controlled component in response to a predetermined temperature change. The thermal control process includes modifying the flow path in the thermally-controlled component to control temperature variation of the thermally-controlled component and/or cooling a region of the thermally-controlled component through the thermally-responsive features deploying from or retracting toward a surface of the thermally-controlled component. 1. A thermally-controlled component , comprising:thermally-responsive features;wherein the thermally-responsive features are configured to modify a flow path to control temperature variation of the thermally-controlled component;wherein the thermally-responsive features deploy from or retract toward a surface of the thermally-controlled component in response to a predetermined temperature change.2. The thermally-controlled component of claim 1 , wherein the thermally-responsive features deploying from or retracting toward the surface of the thermally-controlled component result in increased cooling of a region of the thermally-controlled component.3. The thermally-controlled component of claim 1 , wherein the thermally-responsive features include a first metallic layer and a second metallic layer.4. The thermally-controlled component of claim 3 , wherein the first metallic layer and the second metallic layer have a misfit strain of between about 5% and about 40%.5. The thermally-controlled component of claim 1 , wherein one or both of the first metallic layer and the second metallic layer include material selected from the group consisting of nickel claim 1 , iron ...

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Номер записи: 23

03-10-2013 дата публикации

Plate, Transducer and Methods for Making and Operating a Transducer

Номер: US20130257218A1

Автор: Dehe Alfons

Принадлежит: INFINEON TECHNOLOGIES AG

A plate, a transducer, a method for making a transducer, and a method for operating a transducer are disclosed. An embodiment comprises a plate comprising a first material layer comprising a first stress, a second material layer arranged beneath the first material layer, the second material layer comprising a second stress, an opening arranged in the first material layer and the second material layer, and an extension extending into opening, wherein the extension comprises a portion of the first material layer and a portion of the second material layer, and wherein the extension is curved away from a top surface of the plate based on a difference in the first stress and the second stress. 1. A transducer device comprising:a membrane; and a first material layer comprising a first stress;', 'a second material layer arranged adjacent the first material layer, the second material layer comprising a second stress;', 'an opening extending through the first material layer and the second material layer; and', 'an extension shaping the opening, wherein the extension comprises a portion of the first material layer and a portion of the second material layer, and wherein the extension is curved towards the membrane., 'a backplate spaced apart from the membrane, the backplate comprising2. The transducer according to claim 1 , wherein the first material layer comprises a higher compressive stress than the second material layer.3. The transducer according to claim 1 , wherein the first material layer comprises a lower tensile stress than the second material layer.4. The transducer according to claim 1 , wherein the first material layer comprises a conductive material layer claim 1 , and wherein the second material layer comprises an insulating material layer.5. The transducer according to claim 1 , wherein the first material layer comprises an insulating material layer and wherein the second material layer comprises a conductive material layer.6. The transducer according to claim ...

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Номер записи: 24

17-10-2013 дата публикации

Apparatus For Closed-Loop Mechanical Energy Harvesting

Номер: US20130270839A1

Автор: Krupenkin Thomas Nikita, Taylor Joseph Ashley

Принадлежит:

A closed-loop apparatus for converting mechanical energy into electrical energy utilizes a closed-loop channel including sections of different cross-section (including a first group of sections having a constrained cross-section and a second group sections having an enlarged cross-section). An energy-producing configuration (such as coils and/or electrodes) is formed to surround at least a portion of the channel. A closed-loop chain of energy-producing elements is positioned in channel such that when the chain moves along the channel, the mechanical motion generates electrical energy. The chain is formed to include a set of expandable assemblies that change in dimension as they pass through the different cross-section areas of the channel. An inert fluid is injected into the channel at one or more locations by a mechanical force, resulting in the creation of a pressure-induced force differential that initiates and maintains the movement of the chain with respect to the channel. 1. A closed-loop apparatus for converting mechanical energy into electrical energy comprisinga closed-loop channel formed as a tube have a plurality of sections of different cross-section, including first sections having a constrained cross-section, second sections having an enlarged cross-section and transition sections disposed between adjacent first and second sections to provide for tapering between the constrained cross-section and the enlarged cross-section;a plurality of coils and a plurality of dielectric-coated electrodes surrounding at least a portion of the closed-loop channel in an interleaved configuration such that a single dielectric-coated electrode is disposed between a pair of adjacent coils of the plurality of coils;a closed-loop chain formed of alternating regions of non-expanding magnetic material and microfluidic conductive droplets, the chain disposed within the closed-loop channel, the chain further comprising several expandable elements disposed at various locations ...

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Номер записи: 25

07-11-2013 дата публикации

DEVICE FOR CONVERTING THERMAL ENERGY INTO ELECTRIC ENERGY IN THE PRESENCE OF A HOT SOURCE

Номер: US20130292952A1

Автор: Monfray Stéphan, Puscasu Onoriu, Skotnicki Thomas

Принадлежит: STMICROELECTRONICS (CROLLES 2) SAS

A device for converting thermal energy into electric energy intended to be used in combination with a hot source including: a capacitor of variable capacitance, including two electrodes separated by an electrically-insulating material, one of these electrodes being deformable and being associated with an element forming a bimetallic strip, said bimetallic strip including at least two layers of materials having different thermal expansion coefficients, said bimetallic strip being free to deform when it is submitted to the heat of said hot source; a second capacitor having a first electrode connected to a first electrode of said capacitor of variable capacitance; a harvesting circuit electrically connected between the second electrode of the capacitor of variable capacitance and the second electrode of the second capacitor, said harvesting circuit being capable of conducting the current flowing between said second electrodes. 1. A device for converting thermal energy into electric energy intended to be used in combination with a hot source comprising:a capacitor of variable capacitance, comprising two electrodes separated by an electrically-insulating material, one of these electrodes being deformable and being associated with an element forming a bimetallic strip, said bimetallic strip comprising at least two layers of materials having different thermal expansion coefficients, said bimetallic strip being free to deform when it is submitted to the heat of said hot source;a second capacitor having a first electrode connected to a first electrode of said capacitor of variable capacitance,{'b': '8', 'a harvesting circuit electrically connected between the second electrode of the capacitor of variable capacitance and the second electrode of the second capacitor (), said harvesting circuit being capable of conducting the current flowing between said second electrodes.'}2. A device for converting thermal energy into electric energy intended to be used in combination with a ...

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Номер записи: 26

14-11-2013 дата публикации

Actuator and Method

Номер: US20130298549A1

Автор: JR. Samuel Michael, Manriquez

Принадлежит:

An actuator providing linear displacement, includes a plurality of planar-beam support structures disposed along a longitudinal axis; wherein each said plurality of planar-beam support structures are configured with more than one multidirectional, conductive, coplanar-beams disposed therein; such that said plurality of planar-beam support structures are configured to provide a coupling means to adjacent said plurality of planar-beam support structures having said more than one multidirectional, conductive, coplanar-beams in registry therewith; wherein said coupling means is characterized by that: said more than one multidirectional, conductive, coplanar-beams in registry therewith, are configured to provide for the conjoint parabolic disposition of a plurality of non-rigid, shape-memory material elements. 1. An actuator providing linear displacement , comprising: a plurality of planar-beam support structures disposed along a longitudinal axis; wherein each said plurality of planar-beam support structures are configured with more than one multidirectional , conductive , coplanar-beams disposed therein; such that said plurality of planar-beam support structures are configured to provide a coupling means to adjacent said plurality of planar-beam support structures having said more than one multidirectional , conductive , coplanar-beams in registry therewith; wherein said coupling means is characterized by that: said more than one multidirectional , conductive , coplanar-beams in registry therewith , are configured to provide for the conjoint parabolic disposition of a plurality of non-rigid , shape-memory material elements.2. The actuator as claimed in claim 1 , wherein said plurality of planar-beam support structures are configured for convergent-divergent displacement claim 1 , relative to adjacent said plurality of planar-beam support structures.3. The actuator as claimed in claim 1 , wherein said plurality of non-rigid claim 1 , shape-memory material elements ...

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Номер записи: 27

02-01-2014 дата публикации

CONTROL SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR POWER PLANT

Номер: US20140001757A1

Автор: Adams David James, Kuczynski Konrad Jerzy

Принадлежит: DOOSAN POWER SYSTEMS UK LIMITED

A method of operation of a thermal power plant having an air separation system with a plurality of air storage unit (ASU) compressors and a liquid oxygen/liquid air (LOX/LA) storage facility for oxyfuel firing of fossil fuel and a power plant having a control system to perform the same are described. The method is characterized by the step of controlling the net power output of the plant in response to short term variations in grid demanded net plant output by dynamically adjusting the works power of the ASU compressors preferably in conjunction with co-ordinated changes in firing demand. The method is in particular a method to produce an improved primary and secondary response to transient changes in grid demand and to provide accurate response to load dispatch ramps. 1. A method of operation of a thermal power plant having an air separation system with a plurality of air storage unit (ASU) compressors and a liquid oxygen/liquid air (LOX/LA) storage facility for oxyfuel firing of fuel , the method characterized by the step of controlling the net power output of the plant in response to a varying grid demanded net plant output by dynamically adjusting the works power of the ASU compressors.2. A method in accordance with wherein the step of controlling the net power output of the plant by dynamically adjusting the works power of the ASU compressors is performed dynamically in response to short term variations in grid demanded net plant output occurring over timescales of less than 30 minutes.3. A method in accordance with wherein the step of controlling the net power output of the plant in response to a varying grid demanded net plant output by dynamically adjusting the works power of the ASU compressors is performed at least to provide a primary response to primary changes in the net power output demand.4. A method in accordance with wherein the step of dynamically adjusting the works power of the ASU compressors is the step which provides the predominant source of ...

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Номер записи: 28

02-01-2014 дата публикации

SANNER CYCLE ENERGY SYSTEM

Номер: US20140001767A1

Автор: SANNER Gunnar

Принадлежит:

The invention concerns an energy system (Sanner cycle), comprising a first energy converting plant located at a first geographical position and a second energy converting plant located at a second geographical position, wherein the first energy converting plant is configured to produce at least one energy carrying compound from at least one energy depleted compound using energy obtained from a non-fossil energy source, wherein the second energy converting plant is configured to produce power, electricity and/or heat by reacting the at least one energy carrying compound such as to form the at least one energy depleted compound, and wherein said energy system further comprises a transporting system configured to transport the at least one energy carrying compound produced in the first energy converting plant to the second energy converting plant and to transport the at least one energy depleted compound produced in the second energy converting plant to the first energy converting plant. The invention is characterized in that the that the energy system forms a closed loop with regard to the energy carrying and energy depleted compounds produced at the first and second energy converting plants, wherein the at least one energy carrying compound produced in the first plant is transported in the closed loop to the second plant as to form a reactant at that plant, and wherein the at least one energy depleted compound produced in the second plant is transported in the closed loop to the first plant as to form a reactant at that plant. Energy conversion plants can also be set up in a network with transportation of energy carrying and energy depleted compounds in-between forming a Sanner cycle network. 17-. (canceled)8. Energy system , comprisinga first energy converting plant located at a first geographical position and a second energy converting plant located at a second geographical position,wherein the first energy converting plant is configured to produce at least one ...

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Номер записи: 29

30-01-2014 дата публикации

Energy harvesting system for a vehicle

Номер: US20140026555A1

Автор: Alan L. Browne, Andrew C. Keefe, Christopher P. Henry, Geoffrey P. Mcknight, Nancy L. Johnson, Nilesh D. Mankame, Patrick B. Usoro, Paul W. Alexander, Peter Maxwell Sarosi, Xiujie Gao

Принадлежит: GM GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS LLC

An energy harvesting system includes a heat engine and a component. The heat engine includes a belt, a first member, and a second member. The belt includes a strip of material and at least one wire at least partially embedded longitudinally in the strip of material. The wire includes a shape memory alloy material. A localized region of the at least one wire is configured to change crystallographic phase between martensite and austenite and either contract or expand longitudinally in response to exposure to a first temperature or a second temperature such that the strip of material corresponding to the localized region also contracts or expands. The first member is operatively connected to the belt and moves with the belt in response to the expansion or contraction of the belt. The component is operatively connected to the first member such that movement of the first member drives the component.

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Номер записи: 30

30-01-2014 дата публикации

Shape memory alloy driving system and drivng device

Номер: US20140028222A1

Автор: Ho-Kai Liang, Yu-Han Chen

Принадлежит: Hon Hai Precision Industry Co Ltd

A shape memory alloy (SMA) driving system includes an SMA wire, a power source, a switch element, a temperature sensor, a pulse generator, and a control unit. The power source is electrically connected to one end of the SMA. The switch element includes an input terminal electrically connected to the other end of the SMA, a grounded output terminal, and a control terminal configured for controlling connection and disconnection between the input terminal and the output terminal. The control unit stores a martensite convert temperature and an austenite convert temperature. The control unit compares a temperature detected by the temperature sensor with the martensite convert temperature and the austenite convert temperature. when the detected temperature is lower than the martensite convert temperature and is higher than the austenite convert temperature, the control unit controls the pulse generator to output a higher duty-cycle signal.

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Номер записи: 31

13-02-2014 дата публикации

TUBULAR DEVICE AND ACTUATOR

Номер: US20140041377A1

Автор: Williams Jeffrey Charles

Принадлежит: BAKER HUGHES INCORPORATED

A tubular device including a tubular having a continuous wall and a substantially constant inner radial dimension and an outer surface that varies in radial dimensions configured to lessen a reduction in a longitudinal dimension of the tubular in response to radial expansion of the tubular in comparison to a reduction in the longitudinal dimension of a constantly-dimensioned-inner-and-outer-radially-surfaced-tubular made of a same material as the tubular. 1. A tubular device comprising a tubular having a continuous wall and a substantially constant inner radial dimension and an outer surface that varies in radial dimensions configured to lessen a reduction in a longitudinal dimension of the tubular in response to radial expansion of the tubular in comparison to a reduction in the longitudinal dimension of a constantly-dimensioned-inner-and-outer-radially-surfaced-tubular made of a same material as the tubular.2. The tubular device of claim 1 , wherein the lessening in reduction in the longitudinal dimension of the tubular results in a growth in the longitudinal dimension of the tubular.3. The tubular device of claim 1 , wherein the tubular has a negative Poisson's ratio.4. The tubular device of claim 1 , wherein the continuous wall of the tubular defines a fluid tight barrier.5. The tubular device of claim 1 , wherein the outer surface includes pyramidal-shaped-protrusions.6. The tubular device of claim 5 , wherein the pyramidal-shaped-protrusions are oriented in at least one of rows and columns on the outer surface.7. The tubular device of claim 1 , wherein the continuous wall varies in thickness due to the outer surface varying in radial dimensions.8. The tubular device of claim 1 , wherein the constant inner radial dimension defines an inner surface that is smooth.9. An actuator claim 1 , comprising:{'claim-ref': {'@idref': 'CLM-00001', 'claim 1'}, 'the tubular device of ; and'}a hollow cylindrical member positioned radially of the tubular device being attached ...

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Номер записи: 32

20-03-2014 дата публикации

Overload protection lacking automatic reset for use with active material actuation

Номер: US20140077921A1

Автор: Alan L. Browne, Nancy L. Johnson

Принадлежит: GM GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS LLC

An actuation assembly adapted to protect against overload conditions, includes an active material actuator and an active material overload protection device either with or without a manual reset.

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Номер записи: 33

01-01-2015 дата публикации

ENERGIZATION OF AN ELEMENT WITH A THERMALLY EXPANDABLE MATERIAL

Номер: US20150000936A1

Автор: Kathol Nathan, Nguy Vi, Skeates Craig

Принадлежит:

A system and method facilitates actuation of an energized device, such as a packer. The technique provides an actuating force with a thermally expandable material located in a container. The thermally expandable material is operatively coupled with an element, such as a packer sealing element, via an actuator member. When the container and the thermally expandable material are positioned in a high heat environment, the thermally expandable material expands and actuates the element via the actuator member. In packer applications, the thermally expandable material may be used to continuously energize the packer sealing element and/or other components while the thermally expandable material is positioned in the high heat environment. 1. A system for use in a well , comprising:a packer having a packer sealing element; and a piston exposed to a confined volume; and', 'a thermally expandable material disposed in the confined volume such that increased temperature causes the thermally expandable material to increase pressure during expansion within the confined volume, thus moving the piston; transitioning the packer sealing element into sealing engagement with the surrounding wall; and continuously energizing the packer sealing element while the thermally expandable material is exposed to the increased temperature., 'an actuator to transition the packer sealing element into sealing engagement with a surrounding wall, the actuator comprising2. The system of claim 1 , wherein the packer further comprises a plurality of slips operated by the actuator upon expansion of the thermally expandable material.3. The system of claim 1 , wherein the actuator further comprises a pressure piston moved by a pressurized fluid supplied to the actuator via tubing claim 1 , the pressure piston working in cooperation with the piston to transition the packer sealing element into sealing engagement with the surrounding wall.4. The system of claim 1 , wherein the thermally expandable material is ...

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Номер записи: 34

01-01-2015 дата публикации

RECONFIGURABLE BI-STABLE DEVICE

Номер: US20150001996A1

Автор: Browne Alan L., Carter William B., Herrera Guillermo A., Johnson Nancy L., Keefe Andrew C., Mcknight Geoffrey P.

Принадлежит:

A reconfigurable bi-stable device includes an elastically deformable panel laterally disposed between and connected to one or more mounting members directly or indirectly connected to opposing ends of the panel, with the panel maintained under compressive force along at least one vector extending between the opposing ends. The compressive force deforms the panel into a one of two stable deformed positions, with the device disposed such that the panel may be moved between each of the two stable deformed positions by application of manual force to one of two opposing faces of the panel. A first shape memory alloy (SMA) or piezo actuator member is connected to the panel, the actuator member being capable of moving the panel from a first one of the two stable deformed positions to a second one of the two stable deformed positions. 1. A method of operating a bi-stable device that comprises an elastically deformable panel laterally disposed between and connected to one or more mounting members directly or indirectly connected to opposing ends of the panel , said panel maintained under compressive force along at least one vector extending between said opposing ends , said compressive force deforming the panel into a one of two stable deformed positions , and a first shape memory alloy or piezo actuator member connected to the panel , the method comprising:applying heat or electric current to the first shape memory alloy or an electric field to the piezo actuator member to move the panel from a second one of the two stable deformed positions to a first one of the two stable deformed positions.2. The method of claim 1 , further comprising applying manual force to the panel to move the panel from the first of the two stable deformed positions to the second of the two stable deformed positions.3. The method of claim 1 , wherein current is applied to the shape memory alloy or piezo actuator upon the occurrence of a predetermined condition or set of conditions.4. The method of ...

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Номер записи: 35

01-01-2015 дата публикации

Recovery system and methods for MEMS devices

Номер: US20150002982A1

Автор: Cazzaniga Gabriele, Coronato Luca, Prandi Luciano, Simoni Barbara

Принадлежит:

Various embodiments of the invention reduce stiction in a wide range of MEMS devices and increase device reliability without negatively impacting performance. In certain embodiments, stiction recover is accomplished by applying electrostatic forces to electrodes via optimized voltage signals that generate a restoring force that aids in overcoming stiction forces between electrodes. The voltage signals used within a stiction recovery procedure may be static or a dynamic, and may be applied directly to existing electrodes within a MEMS device, thereby, eliminating the need for additional components. In some embodiments, the voltage is estimated or calibrated and swept through a range of frequencies that contains one or more resonant frequencies of the mechanical structure that comprises the parts to be detached. 1. A circuit to recover from stiction , the circuit comprising:a stiction detection circuit coupled to receive a first signal from a MEMS device, the stiction detection circuit detects, based on the first signal, a stiction event between two components of the MEMS device; anda stiction recovery circuit coupled to the stiction detection circuit, the stiction recovery circuit generates a second signal in response to detecting the stiction event and applies the second signal to at least a mechanical structure of the MEMS device to cause an electrostatic force.2. The circuit according to claim 1 , wherein the second signal is one of a non-periodic waveform signal having a continuously increasing frequency claim 1 , a non-periodic waveform signal having a continuously decreasing frequency claim 1 , and static signal.3. The circuit according to claim 1 , wherein the stiction recovery circuit comprises a waveform generator capable of sweeping the second signal through a predetermined range of frequencies.4. The circuit according to claim 1 , wherein the mechanical structure of the MEMS device comprises a mass.5. The circuit according to claim 4 , wherein the second ...

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Номер записи: 36

02-01-2020 дата публикации

CONTINUOUS PRODUCTION OF MUSCLE FIBERS

Номер: US20200003189A1

Автор: Allen Randy, Li Sergey, LIMA Marcio Dias

Принадлежит: Lintec Of America, Inc.

Methods, system, and apparatus for producing an actuator device are disclosed. The method may include twisting a muscle fiber; coiling the twisted muscle fiber about a mandrel; securing the muscle fiber onto the mandrel using a securing means; heating the muscle fiber to a predetermined temperature using a heating means; and removing the coiled muscle fiber from the mandrel. The twisting, coiling, securing, heating, and removing is a process that is continued until the muscle fiber is a desired length. 1. A method of producing an actuator device , the method comprising:twisting a muscle fiber;coiling the twisted muscle fiber about a mandrel;securing the muscle fiber onto the mandrel using a securing means;heating the muscle fiber to a predetermined temperature using a heating means; andremoving the coiled muscle fiber from the mandrel,wherein the twisting, coiling, securing, heating, and removing is a process that is continued until the muscle fiber is a desired length.2. The method of claim 1 , wherein the securing means is a rotating belt around the mandrel.3. The method of claim 1 , wherein the muscle fiber comprises a polymer fiber selected from the group consisting of nylon 6 claim 1 , nylon 66 claim 1 , polyethylene claim 1 , polyvinylidene fluoride claim 1 , and combinations thereof.4. The method of claim 1 , wherein the muscle fiber comprises carbon nanotubes (CNT).5. The method of claim 1 , wherein the heating means is operably connected to the mandrel such that the temperature of the mandrel is raised to the predetermined temperature.6. A system for continuous manufacturing of an actuator device claim 1 , the system comprising:a mandrel operably connected to a motor;a securing means; anda heating means,wherein a twisted muscle fiber is coiled around the mandrel using the motor and secured by the securing means, andwherein the heating means heats the muscle fiber to a predetermined temperature.7. The system of claim 6 , wherein the securing means is a ...

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Номер записи: 37

10-01-2019 дата публикации

System for modulating turbine blade tip clearance

Номер: US20190010823A1

Автор: Fanping Sun, Hailing Wu, Joel H. Wagner, Lee A. Hoffman, Michael G. Mccaffrey, Seung Bum Kim, Zaffir A. Chaudhry

Принадлежит: United Technologies Corp

A system for modulating turbine blade tip clearance is provided. The system may comprise an actuation control system having at least one actuator configured to modulate turbine blade tip clearance between a turbine blade tip and a blade outer air seal (BOAS). Each actuator may be coupled to the BOAS. Each actuator may comprise a solid-state motion amplification device such as a flextensional actuator. The actuators may be configured to move the BOAS in a radial direction from a first position to a second position to control tip clearance.

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Номер записи: 38

09-01-2020 дата публикации

Movable device

Номер: US20200011305A1

Автор: Eitaro Tanaka, Seiichiro Washino, Takuma Yamauchi

Принадлежит: Denso Corp

A movable device includes an actuator element that deforms about an actuator axis in response to increase or decrease in energy of the actuator element. A driven body is coupled to the actuator element on the actuator axis and turned by deformation of the actuator element. A guide mechanism guides turning of the driven body about a turning axis coaxial with the actuator axis such that torsional deformation of the actuator element is directly transferred to the turning of the driven body.

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Номер записи: 39

21-01-2016 дата публикации

Implantable Micro-Fluidic Device for Monitoring of Intra-Ocular Pressure

Номер: US20160015265A1

Автор: Araci Ismail E, Mandel Yosef, Quake Stephen R.

Принадлежит: THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES OF THE LELAND STANFORD JUNIOR UNIVERSITY

Glaucoma is the second most common cause of blindness in the global world. It is a multifactorial disease with several risk factors, of which intraocular pressure (IOP) is the most important. IOP measurements are used for glaucoma diagnosis and patient monitoring. IOP has wide diurnal fluctuation, and is dependent on body posture, so the occasional measurements done by the eye care expert in clinic can be misleading. We provide an implantable sensor, based on microfluidic principles, which in one example has 1 mmHg limit of detection, high sensitivity and excellent reproducibility. This sensor has an optical interface, which enables IOP to be read with, for example, a cell phone camera. The design, fabrication, along with the option of self-monitoring are promising steps toward better patient care and treatment for this devastating disease.

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Номер записи: 40

17-04-2014 дата публикации

HIGH-TEMPERATURE THERMAL ACTUATOR UTILIZING PHASE CHANGE MATERIAL

Номер: US20140102544A1

Автор: Ambrosek James, Gettamaneni Kumaresh, Polley Nolan, Riley Michael B., Way R.J.

Принадлежит:

Disclosed is a high-temperature thermal actuator that utilizes the dimensional change of a phase change media hermetically sealed within a shell. This actuator regulates and controls flow of a fluid between an intake and an exhaust utilizing a valve. In one example, the disclosed embodiments operate in temperature range between 350° C. and 400° C. This actuation range is tailored for specific applications utilizing an exemplary combination of RbNOand CsNOin precise proportion that provides operation within this range. 1. A high-temperature thermal actuator comprising: a flexible metal wall with surfaces orthogonal to an axial orientation that allows flexural displacement towards the outside of said confine;', 'an opposing wall with surfaces orthogonal to an axial orientation, approximately parallel to, and offset by, a distance from said flexible wall;', 'at least one non-flexible wall that is disposed in a circumferential orientation to engage said flexible metal wall and said opposing wall thereby forming said sealed confine;, 'a sealed volumetric confine comprisinga phase change media located within said volume of said confine, said phase change media that expands upon a change of state from solid to liquid as the temperature of said phase change media increases beyond 200° C.; and,an actuator rod in contact with an outside surface of said flexible metal wall that changes distance from said opposing wall in response to said change of state of said phase change media.2. The high-temperature thermal actuator of wherein said phase change media comprises one or more inorganic salts.3. The high-temperature thermal actuator of wherein said phase change media comprises one or more metals.4. The high-temperature thermal actuator of wherein said phase change media comprises one or more non-metals.5. The high-temperature thermal actuator of wherein said phase change media comprises any combination of one or more inorganic salts claim 1 , one or more metals claim 1 , and ...

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Номер записи: 41

28-01-2016 дата публикации

STIRLING ENGINE FOR AN EMISSION-FREE AIRCRAFT

Номер: US20160025075A1

Автор: SEIFERT Jost

Принадлежит: EADS DEUTSCHLAND GmbH

Aircraft with an emission-free drive and method for emission-free driving of an aircraft. The aircraft includes a drive device structured and arranged to generate thrust, a lift device structured and arranged to generate lift, and a heat engine structured and arranged to convert thermal energy into kinetic energy to drive the drive device. The heat engine includes at least one flat-plate Stirling engine drivable by solar thermal radiation. 1. An aircraft with an emission-free drive , comprising:an aircraft thruster structured and arranged to generate thrust;an aircraft lift device structured and arranged to generate lift; anda heat engine, which is structured and arranged to convert thermal energy into kinetic energy to drive the aircraft thruster, comprising at least one flat-plate Stirling engine drivable by solar thermal radiation.2. The aircraft according to claim 1 , wherein the aircraft lift device comprises a wing with an airfoil section structured and arranged to generate lift claim 1 , and the flat-plate Stirling engine is arranged in the wing.3. The aircraft according to claim 1 , the flat-plate Stirling engine comprising:a working chamber filled with a working gas and having a top and an underside and a changeable working volume;a displacer structured and arranged to be moveable in the working chamber between the top and the underside;a regenerator structured and arranged in the working chamber to collect and deliver thermal energy contained in the working gas;a working piston connected to change a working volume of the working chamber;an inertia element structured and arranged in a rotatable manner;a drive structured and arranged to be connectable to the inertia element to drive the aircraft thruster; anda transmission structured and arranged to mechanically couple the displacer and the working piston with the inertia element,wherein the working chamber is located in the aircraft lift device and the working gas is heatable from a top of the aircraft lift ...

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Номер записи: 42

28-01-2016 дата публикации

ELECTROTHERMAL COMPOSITE MATERIAL AND ELECTROTHERMAL ACTUATOR USING THE SAME

Номер: US20160025077A1

Автор: FAN SHOU-SHAN, LI QING-WEI, LIU CHANG-HONG

Принадлежит:

An electrothermal composite material includes a flexible polymer layer and a carbon nanotube paper stacked on the flexible polymer layer. The carbon nanotube paper is at least partly embedded into the flexible polymer layer. A thickness ratio of the carbon nanotube paper and the flexible polymer layer is in a range from about 1:7 to about 1:10. A density of the carbon nanotube paper is greater than or equal to 0.5 g/cm. A thermal expansion coefficient of the carbon nanotube paper is greater than or equal to ten times that of the flexible polymer layer. A conductivity of the carbon nanotube paper along a first direction is in a range from about 1000 S/m to about 6000 S/m. An electrothermal actuator is also provided. 1. An electrothermal composite material comprising:a flexible polymer layer; anda carbon nanotube paper stacked with the flexible polymer layer and at least partly embedded into the flexible polymer layer,{'sup': '3', 'wherein a thickness ratio of the carbon nanotube paper and the flexible polymer layer is in a range from about 1:7 to about 1:10, a density of the carbon nanotube paper is greater than or equal to 0.5 g/cm, a thermal expansion coefficient of the carbon nanotube paper is greater than or equal to ten times that of the flexible polymer layer, and a conductivity of the carbon nanotube paper along a first direction parallel to a surface of the carbon nanotube paper is in a range from about 1000 S/m to about 6000 S/m.'}2. The electrothermal composite material of claim 1 , wherein the conductivity of the carbon nanotube paper along the first direction is in a range from about 2000 S/m to about 3500 S/m.3. The electrothermal composite material of claim 1 , wherein a thickness of the carbon nanotube paper is in a range from about 30 micrometers to about 50 micrometers.4. The electrothermal composite material of claim 1 , wherein the density of the carbon nanotube paper is in a range from about 0.5 g/cmto about 1.2 g/cm.5. The electrothermal ...

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Номер записи: 43

28-01-2016 дата публикации

ELECTROTHERMAL ACTUATORS

Номер: US20160025078A1

Автор: FAN SHOU-SHAN, LI QING-WEI, LIU CHANG-HONG

Принадлежит:

An electrothermal actuator includes at least one connecting portion; at least two operating portions; and at least two electrodes. Each of the at least one connecting portion and the at least two operating portions includes a flexible polymer layer and a carbon nanotube paper. A thickness ratio of the carbon nanotube paper and the flexible polymer layer ranges from 1:7 to 1:10. A density of the carbon nanotube paper is greater than 0.5 g/cm. A thermal expansion coefficient of the carbon nanotube paper is greater than ten times that of the flexible polymer layer. A conductivity of the at least two operating portions along the current direction ranges from 1000 S/m to 6000 S/m. A conductivity of the at least one connecting portion along the current direction is greater than 6000 S/m. 1. An electrothermal actuator comprising:at least one connecting portion;at least two operating portions connected with each other by the at least one connecting portion, to define at least one conductive path; andat least two electrodes spaced from each other and configured to introduce a current to the at least one conductive path;{'sup': '3', 'wherein each of the at least one connecting portion and the at least two operating portions comprises a flexible polymer layer and a carbon nanotube paper stacked with each other, the carbon nanotube paper is at least partly embedded into the flexible polymer layer; a thickness ratio of the carbon nanotube paper and the flexible polymer layer is in a range from about 1:7 to about 1:10, a density of the carbon nanotube paper is greater than or equal to 0.5 g/cm, a thermal expansion coefficient of the carbon nanotube paper is greater than or equal to ten times that of the flexible polymer layer; a first conductivity of each of the at least two operating portions along a first current direction of the at least two operating portions is in a range from about 1000 S/m to about 6000 S/m, and a second conductivity of the at least one connecting portion ...

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Номер записи: 44

28-01-2016 дата публикации

ELECTROTHERMAL ACTUATORS

Номер: US20160025079A1

Автор: FAN SHOU-SHAN, LI QING-WEI, LIU CHANG-HONG

Принадлежит:

An electrothermal actuator includes at least two operating portions and at least two electrodes. The at least two operating portions are electrically connected with each other to define at least one conductive path. Each of the at least two operating portions comprises a flexible polymer layer and a carbon nanotube paper. A thickness ratio of the carbon nanotube paper and the flexible polymer layer ranges from 1:7 to 1:10. A density of the carbon nanotube paper is greater than or equal to 0.5 g/cm. A thermal expansion coefficient of the carbon nanotube paper is greater than or equal to ten times that of the flexible polymer layer. A conductivity of the carbon nanotube paper along a current direction of the at least two operating portions is in a range from about 1000 S/m to about 6000 S/m. 1. An electrothermal actuator comprising:at least two operating portions electrically connected with each other to define at least one conductive path; andat least two electrodes spaced from each other and configured to introduce a current to the at least one conductive path;{'sup': '3', 'wherein each of the at least two operating portions comprises a flexible polymer layer and a carbon nanotube paper stacked with each other, the carbon nanotube paper is at least partly embedded into the flexible polymer layer; a thickness ratio of the carbon nanotube paper and the flexible polymer layer is in a range from about 1:7 to about 1:10, a density of the carbon nanotube paper is greater than or equal to 0.5 g/cm, a thermal expansion coefficient of the carbon nanotube paper is greater than or equal to ten times that of the flexible polymer layer; a conductivity of the carbon nanotube paper of each of the at least two operating portions along a current direction of the at least two operating portions is in a range from about 1000 S/m to about 6000 S/m.'}2. The electrothermal actuator of claim 1 , wherein the flexible polymer layer is an integrated structure.3. The electrothermal actuator ...

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Номер записи: 45

10-02-2022 дата публикации

Enhanced low temperature difference-powered devices, systems, and methods

Номер: US20220042497A1

Автор: John Warren

Принадлежит: Navita Energy Inc

The invention described herein provides new devices suitable for effectively converting temperature differences, including relatively low temperature differences, into useful work (e.g., for generating electrical power), related systems, and methods of using and developing such devices/systems. The devices are characterized in, inter alia, comprising an at least partially enclosed moveable component (e.g., a piston), an enclosed/isolated pressurized gas, and an enclosed temperature modifying liquid or energy transfer fluid system having portions which obtain temperature characteristics from two sources, which portions are alternatingly dispensed (e.g., as droplets by improved dispensation components) into the pressurized gas, or which operate as a liquid displacer of pressurized gas, in either case creating a pressure on the movable component, causing the moveable component to move back and forth along a stroke distance, and which, in aspects, is opposed by a counter pressure system, such as a vacuum counter pressure system. Other and related devices, systems, and methods also are provided.

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Номер записи: 46

24-01-2019 дата публикации

Calibration of an actuator

Номер: US20190024921A1

Автор: Emile Simon, Kushal Mukherjee

Принадлежит: Carrier Corp

A method for controlling an actuator of a terminal unit in a climate control system includes, in a calibration mode: applying a range of drive signals to the actuator; determining a range of terminal unit capacities over the range of drive signals; and generating a model relating the range of terminal unit capacities to the range of drive signals.

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Номер записи: 47

28-01-2016 дата публикации

Impact producing actuator and touch panel

Номер: US20160028326A1

Автор: Katsuhito FUJII, Takeshi Matsuda, Yoshinori Watanabe, Yuki AKITA

Принадлежит: SMK Corp

An impact producing actuator can vary energy to be applied to a shape memory alloy, depending on, for example, an ambient temperature. The impact producing actuator has a drive signal generation unit that generates a drive signal based on a single pulse signal generated in response to an input operation and outputs the drive signal, a switching element whose switching operation is controlled by the drive signal, and a shape memory alloy through which electric current passes for a period of time during which the switching element is turned on or off. The impact producing actuator is configured such that the period of time during which the switching element is turned on or off varies depending on the ambient temperature.

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Номер записи: 48

28-01-2016 дата публикации

CHARGED PARTICLE INDUCTION FROM IONOSPHERE TO GROUND

Номер: US20160029467A1

Автор: Lane Glenn E.

Принадлежит:

A charged particle induction apparatus and method comprising a high power light emitting means, such as a laser array, in operable communication with a high energy output means to accomplish initiation of at least two concentric plasma channels in atmosphere extending from the Earth's surface to the charge-rich upper atmosphere, including the ionosphere, for the transmission of charged particles therethrough to ground using the surrounding atmosphere as an insulator. The transmitted energy is drawn down (due to an artificially created potential) through the conductive plasma channels to collection means. 1. An apparatus for inducing the flow of charged particles from the charge-rich outer atmosphere to ground , comprising:a. means for generating a first conductive channel through the atmosphere and in communication with the charge-rich outer atmosphere, said first conductive channel being substantially ring-shaped in cross-section and comprised of a wall of partially ionized atmosphere; said first conductive channel having a diameter;b. means for generating a second conductive channel through the atmosphere and in communication with the charge-rich outer atmosphere, said second conductive channel being substantially ring-shaped in cross-section and comprised of a wall of partially ionized atmosphere; said second conductive channel having a diameter greater than said diameter of said first conductive channel; said first conductive channel and said second conductive channel being concentric; andc. charged particle collection means associated with said means for generating said first and said second conductive channels.2. The apparatus for inducing the flow of charged particles from the charge-rich outer atmosphere to ground of claim 1 , wherein said charged particle collection means is comprised of a at least one electrode attached to a support structure.3. The apparatus for inducing the flow of charged particles from the charge-rich outer atmosphere to ground of ...

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Номер записи: 49

23-01-2020 дата публикации

A CONTROL SYSTEM FOR A SWITCHABLE LENS

Номер: US20200026099A1

Автор: Gleeson Helen Frances, Jones John Clifford, Morgan Philip Bruce

Принадлежит:

Disclosed is a dynamically switchable contact lens, operable to switch between first and second focal states, each focal state having a different optical property, the lens comprising: a power source; a controller, operable to control the operation of the lens; a transceiver operable to communicate with a second lens and/or an external controller; wherein the controller is operable to pair the lens with the second lens by means of the external controller. 1. A dynamically switchable contact lens , operable to switch between first and second focal states , each focal state having a different optical property , the lens comprising:a power source;a controller, operable to control the operation of the lens;a transceiver operable to communicate with a second lens and/or an external controller;wherein the controller is operable to pair the lens with the second lens by means of the external controller.2. The lens of comprising a liquid crystal material claim 1 , disposed in a cavity and wherein the optical property of the lens is altered according an electrical field applied to the liquid crystal material.3. A dynamically switchable contact lens as claimed in wherein the controller is operable to perform the steps of:(a) scanning, using the external controller, an identifier associated with the first lens;(b) transmitting to the first lens an association message to associate the external controller with the first lens;(c) scanning, using the external controller, an identifier associated with the second lens; and(d) transmitting to the second lens an association message to associate the external controller with the second lens.4. A method of associating first and second dynamically switchable contact lenses with an external controller claim 1 , comprising the steps of:(a) scanning, using the external controller, an identifier associated with the first lens;(b) transmitting to the first lens an association message to associate the external controller with the first lens;(c) ...

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Номер записи: 50

31-01-2019 дата публикации

DEVICE FOR ELECTROPHYSIOLOGICAL RECORDING FROM THE EYE

Номер: US20190029554A1

Автор: Ban Tamas, Hetling John R., Rahmani Safa

Принадлежит:

The present disclosure provides electroretinography devices configured to detect biopotential signals from an eye of a subject. In some embodiments, the device is configured to prevent the subject's eyelids from closing over the device when placed in contact with the anterior surface of the subject's eye. In some embodiments, the device has a Young's modulus of no more than about 50 MPa. In some embodiments, the device includes a diffusing or refracting element configured to scatter, focus or diverge incident light. In other embodiments, the device includes a void through which incident light can enter the subject's eye without passing through any portion of the device. 1. An electroretinography device comprising: a proximal portion configured to be placed in contact with an anterior surface of the eye,', 'a distal portion including at least one side wall, and', 'a single conductive element housed in the ocular portion; and, "an ocular portion configured to detect a single biopotential signal from an eye of a subject, the ocular portion consisting essentially of a biocompatible material having a Young's modulus of no more than about 50 MPa and including:"}a signal relay operatively connected to the conductive element and configured to transmit the biopotential signal from the conductive element to a signal processor.2. The device of claim 1 , wherein the ocular portion is configured to prevent eyelids of the subject from closing when the proximal portion is placed in contact with the anterior surface of the eye.3. The device of claim 1 , wherein the proximal portion includes a flange configured to enable the eyelids to slide over the flange.4. The device of claim 1 , wherein the distal portion includes at least one side wall configured to prevent the eyelids from closing.5. The device of claim 4 , wherein the at least one side wall has a concave shape.6. An electroretinography device comprising: a proximal portion configured to be placed in contact with an anterior ...

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Номер записи: 51

04-02-2021 дата публикации

INTRAOCULAR LENSES INCLUDING AN INTRAOCULAR PRESSURE SENSOR

Номер: US20210030529A1

Автор: ADAMS Douglas P., Fehr Jean-Noel, Gupta Amitava

Принадлежит:

Intraocular lenses that include a central portion and one or more peripheral portions. The IOLs includes a sensor housing and a communication member, both of which are secured to the central portion. 1. An intraocular lens (“IOL”) , comprising:a central portion that includes an optic;a housing that includes an intraocular pressure (“IOP”) sensor;an annular antenna in communication with the housing,wherein the housing and antenna are secured to the central portion, and wherein the annular antenna is disposed around a periphery of the central portion; anda peripheral haptic portion disposed radially outside of the central portion.2. The IOL of claim 1 , wherein the housing is mounted to an anterior surface of the central portion.3. The IOL of claim 2 , wherein the annular antenna is mounted to the anterior surface of the central portion.4. The IOL of claim 1 , wherein the annular antenna forms a complete loop.5. The IOL of claim 1 , wherein the central portion has a circular configuration.6. The IOL of claim 1 , wherein the housing is a hermetically sealed package.7. The IOL of claim 1 , wherein the housing further comprises an electronic module.8. The IOL of claim 1 , wherein the IOP sensor comprises a capacitative sensor.9. The IOL of claim 1 , wherein IOP sensor comprises a piezoresistive sensor.10. The IOL of claim 1 , wherein the IOP sensor has dimensions of about 0.5 mm×0.7 mm×1.0 mm.11. The IOL of claim 1 , wherein the annular antenna comprises at least one of titanium and nitinol coated with Gold.12. The IOL of claim 1 , wherein the annular antenna has a diameter from 7.0 mm to 5.0 mm.13. The IOL of claim 1 , wherein the annular antenna has a thickness of 25 microns to 100 microns.14. The IOL of claim 1 , wherein the annular antenna has a partial loop configuration.15. The IOL of claim 1 , wherein a portion of the sensor housing is secured to the peripheral portion.16. The IOL of claim 1 , wherein the sensor housing does not extend beyond an anterior surface ...

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Номер записи: 52

30-01-2020 дата публикации

Shape memory alloy variable stiffness airfoil

Номер: US20200032655A1

Автор: Charles P. Gendrich, Matthew E. Bintz, Troy Shannon Prince

Принадлежит: United Technologies Corp

An aerostructure is provided. The aerostructure may comprise an airfoil extending from a leading edge to a trailing edge, the airfoil comprising a stiffness and a camber, and a shape memory alloy (SMA) mechanically coupled to the airfoil via a resin, the SMA configured to be coupled to a current source, wherein at least one of the stiffness or the camber changes in response to a phase change of the SMA.

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Номер записи: 53

05-02-2015 дата публикации

SENSORS FOR PHOTOPLETHYSMOGRAPHY AT THE OPHTHALMIC ARTERY REGION

Номер: US20150038810A1

Автор: Melker Richard J.

Принадлежит:

Provided according to embodiments of the invention are methods for monitoring an individual including securing a photoplethysmography (PPG) sensor comprising at least one emitter and at least one detector onto skin overlying an ophthalmic artery region of the individual; and obtaining PPG signals generated by the PPG sensor. Sensors for photoplethysmographic monitoring at the ophthalmic artery region are also provided. 1. A method for monitoring an individual , the method comprising:securing a photoplethysmography (PPG) sensor comprising at least one emitter and at least one detector onto skin overlying an ophthalmic artery region of the individual; andobtaining PPG signals generated by the PPG sensor.2. The method of claim 1 , further comprising analyzing the PPG signals to obtain at least one blood oxygen saturation measurement.3. The method of claim 1 , further comprising analyzing the PPG signals to monitor blood flow to the brain of the individual.4. The method of claim 1 , further comprising analyzing the PPG signals to monitor respiration in the individual.5. The method of claim 4 , wherein the PPG signals are used to monitor a respiration rate and/or a respiratory effort of the individual.6. The method of claim 1 , further comprising securing a PPG sensor comprising at least one emitter and at least one detector onto a secondary site on the individual and obtaining PPG signals generated by the PPG sensor at the secondary site on said individual.7. The method of claim 6 , wherein the secondary site is a peripheral body site.8. The method of claim 1 , wherein the PPG sensor is secured medial to the palpebral fissure of an eye of the individual.9. The method of claim 1 , wherein the PPG sensor monitors the blood at the ophthalmic artery region.10. The method of claim 9 , wherein the PPG sensor monitors the blood at the dorsal nasal artery.11. A PPG sensor configured to secure to skin overlying the ophthalmic artery region.12. The PPG sensor of claim 11 , ...

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Номер записи: 54

09-02-2017 дата публикации

THERMOSTATS

Номер: US20170037835A1

Автор: Mead Richard, Sansum Nigel

Принадлежит:

A thermostat comprises a hollow body containing a thermally responsive material, and a force transmitting member affixed to the body by an over-moulded portion. 1. A thermostat comprising a hollow body containing a thermally responsive material , and a force transmitting member affixed to the body by an over-moulded portion.2. The thermostat according to wherein the force transmitting member is configured to control a force applied to the force transmitting member by the thermally responsive material.3. The thermostat according to wherein the force transmitting member has one or more recessed areas at an interface between the force transmitting material and the thermally responsive material in which the thermally responsive material is received.4. The thermostat according to wherein the over-moulded portion is affixed to the body by a bonding agent claim 1 , and wherein the bonding agent comprises at least one of an adhesive or a chemical bonding agent.5. (canceled)6. The thermostat according to wherein the hollow body has a sidewall extending from a first end to a second end and the over-moulded portion is affixed to the sidewall between the first and second ends.7. The thermostat according to wherein the force transmitting member is configured to reduce friction with contact surfaces.8. The thermostat according to wherein the force transmitting member is affixed to an actuator member by the over-moulded portion.9. The thermostat according to including an overload device.10. The thermostat according to wherein the overload device is configured to provide an increase in volume of a chamber containing the thermally responsive material under overload conditions or wherein the overload device is configured to provide a recessed area for reception of the force transmitting member under overload conditions.11. (canceled)12. The thermostat according to including a return device that is integrated into the thermostat claim 1 , wherein the return device comprises a bellows ...

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Номер записи: 55

24-02-2022 дата публикации

NANOPHOTONIC SENSOR IMPLANTS WITH 3D HYBRID PERIODIC-AMORPHOUS PHOTONIC CRYSTALS FOR WIDE-ANGLE MONITORING OF LONG-TERM IN-VIVO INTRAOCULAR PRESSURE FIELD

Номер: US20220054085A1

Автор: Choo Hyuck, LIEDTKE Lukas H., SIDDIQUE Radwanul Hasan

Принадлежит:

A biosensor includes a periodic crystalline structure first layer, and an amorphous crystalline structure second layer. The first and second layers are formed from a biocompatible silicone having a Young's Modulus E between 0.4 and 2.0 MPa. The biosensor has a pressure dependent NIR resonance peak shift of less than 15 nm over a field of view of 40°, and has an optical pressure sensitivity of between 0.38 and 2.6 nm/mm Hg. The biosensor may be formed by forming a 3D crystalline structure having a periodic amorphous crystalline first layer and an amorphous crystalline second layer. Voids of the 3D crystalline structure are filled with the biocompatible silicone/polydimethylsiloxane a material. The 3D crystalline structure is removed to form an inverse structure having a first volume of an amorphous arrangement of voids and a second volume of a periodic arrangement of voids. 1. A pressure sensor , comprising:a first layer of a periodic crystalline structure; anda second layer of an amorphous crystalline structure formed on the first layer.2. The pressure sensor of claim 1 , wherein the first layer and the second layer comprise biocompatible silicone and/or polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS).3. The pressure sensor of claim 1 , wherein the first layer and the second layer form a three-dimensional hybrid photonic crystal.4. The pressure sensor of claim 1 , wherein the pressure sensor comprises a pressure dependent near infrared (NIR) resonance peak shift of less than 15 nm over a field of view of 40°.5. The pressure sensor of claim 1 , wherein the pressure sensor comprises an optical pressure sensitivity of between 0.38 nm/mm Hg and 2.6 nm/mm Hg inclusive.6. The pressure sensor of claim 1 , wherein the first layer and the second layer are formed from a material comprising a Young's Modulus of between 0.1 MPa and 2.0 MPa inclusive.7. The pressure sensor of claim 1 , wherein an optical peak reflectance of the pressure sensor changes as a function of change of pressure sensed by ...

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Номер записи: 56

04-02-2021 дата публикации

Shape memory alloy actuated switch

Номер: US20210035748A1

Автор: Ibrahim KARAMAN, Moustafa Tawfik Omar Raslan, Robert S. Balog

Принадлежит: Qatar Foundation for Education Science and Community Development

A shape-memory alloy actuated switch (SMAAS) is provided that enables the stable switching of two separate circuits. The presently disclosed SMAAS includes a substrate, one or more electrical contacts attached to the substrate for connecting to load circuits, and one or more electrically conductive elements for selectively connecting the one or more electrical contacts. The disclosed SMAAS also includes one or more shape-memory alloy actuators attached to the substrate. The one or more shape-memory alloy actuators are configured to move the one or more electrically conductive elements. The shape-memory alloy actuators are self-heated by passing current through the shape-memory alloy material. The disclosed SMAAS may also include electrical contacts to connect an external control current to the shape-memory alloy material. In some examples, the provided SMAAS includes one or more retention mechanisms to prevent movement of the electrically conductive elements after actuation.

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Номер записи: 57

18-02-2021 дата публикации

Ocular Prosthesis with Display Device

Номер: US20210045865A1

Автор: ABRAMSON David, BLACK Philip C., Bohle, Booth Paul, FRISCH Paul, III George C., Katze Alan B., MARR Brian P., Moore James G.

Принадлежит:

An ocular prosthesis includes a display device visible at an anterior portion of the ocular prosthesis. The display device is configured to present a changeable image that represents a natural appearance and movement for a visible portion of an eyeball of a subject. A system includes, besides the ocular prosthesis, an implant marker configured to move with an orbital implant disposed in an eye socket of a subject. A method includes determining a change in orientation of an orbital implant in a subject and determining an update to a natural appearance for a visible portion of an eyeball for the subject based on the change in orientation of the orbital implant. The method also includes rendering an update to an image of the natural appearance for a display device disposed in an ocular prosthesis configured to be inserted in the subject anterior to the orbital implant. 1. An ocular prosthetic system comprising:a implant marker configured to move with an orbital implant disposed in an eye socket of a subject; and a housing having a form factor shaped to fit under an eyelid of the subject and in front of the orbital implant, wherein an anterior portion of the form factor is curved similar to an anterior portion of a normal eyeball for the subject;', 'a display device disposed within the housing and visible at an anterior portion of the housing;', 'an implant detector disposed within the housing and configured to detect a position of the implant marker when the housing is inserted under the eyelid of the subject and anterior to the orbital implant; and, 'an ocular prosthesis comprising'} determine, at least in part, a human appearance for a visible portion of the eyeball of the subject based, at least in part, on the position of the implant marker, and', 'render, at least in part, an image for presentation on the display device based on the normal appearance for the visible portion of the eyeball of the subject including position and translation of an image of an iris in ...

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Номер записи: 58

15-02-2018 дата публикации

Split-ring resonator-based strain sensor on flexible substrates for glaucoma detection

Номер: US20180042479A1

Автор: Arda D. Yalçinkaya, Günhan Dündar, Hamdi Torun

Принадлежит: BOGAZICI UNIVERSITESI

The invention relates a split-ring resonator-based strain sensor on flexible substrates for glaucoma detection. The purpose of this invention is to provide a sensor which is electrically passive, wireless and low cost to measure intraocular pressure. It measures intraocular pressure by placing a microwave resonator on top of contact lenses. The sensor that is a metallic ring can be placed on a contact lens using standard methods of metal deposition (sputtering, evaporation, etc.) using a shadow mask. The sensor on the lens does not require any electrical signal to operate and are interrogated by external antennas that can be located away from the contact lens. This is very advantageous to define flexible strain sensors that are required for applications as glaucoma detection.

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Номер записи: 59

16-02-2017 дата публикации

Combined stimulator and bipolar electrode assembly for mouse electroretinography (erg)

Номер: US20170042441A1

Автор: Bruce Doran, Marc Chabot

Принадлежит: Diagnosys LLC

Apparatus for evoking and sensing ophthalmic physiological signals in an eye, the apparatus comprising: an elongated tubular light pipe having a longitudinal axis, a distal end and a proximal end, the distal end terminating in a spheroid recess; an active electrode having a distal end and a proximal end, the active electrode being mounted to the elongated tubular light pipe and extending proximally along the elongated tubular light pipe so that the distal end of the active electrode terminates at the spheroid recess at the distal end of the elongated tubular light pipe; and a reference electrode having a distal end and a proximal end, the reference electrode being mounted to the elongated tubular light pipe and extending proximally along the elongated tubular light pipe so that the distal end of the reference electrode terminates at the spheroid recess at the distal end of the elongated tubular light pipe; wherein the distal end of the active electrode is located closer to the longitudinal axis of the elongated tubular light pipe than the distal end of the reference electrode.

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Номер записи: 60

06-02-2020 дата публикации

SOFT ACTUATOR USING THERMOELECTRIC EFFECT

Номер: US20200040876A1

Автор: CHOI Youn Ho, HA Sung Mok, Kwon Oh-Seok, Lee Dong Ha

Принадлежит:

The present invention relates to a soft actuator moving linearly against external stimuli whose expansion and contraction can be actively controlled, suggesting that the actuator of the invention overcomes the problems of the conventional soft actuators, The soft actuator of the present invention can be repetitively driven quickly and accurately by controlling heating and cooling by using thermoelectric effect and, the soft actuator of the present invention can realize bending, tensioning, compression, and rotational driving of a tubular device containing a driver. 1. A soft actuator comprising a driving part which is the unit body composed of the first string that is contracted or expanded by heating or cooling and the second string that shows the opposite movement against the first string and is arranged with maintaining some distance from the first string; and a thermoelectric element part to heat or cool the driving part; wherein the thermoelectric element part has a conductor region to heat or cool the first string and the second string.2. The soft actuator according to claim 1 , wherein the soft actuator additionally includes a string part composed of flexible fibers connected to the side of the unit body in parallel.3. The soft actuator according to claim 1 , wherein the thermoelectric element part is crossed over the top side or the bottom side of the first string and the second string claim 1 , and the first string and the second string are arranged facing opposite each other from the thermoelectric element part as a center.4. The soft actuator according to claim 1 , wherein the driving part cools any one of the first string and the second string with the heat energy transferred from the thermoelectric element part and heats the other string so that the unit body realizes a single drive.5. The soft actuator according to claim 1 , wherein the thermoelectric element part includes the first conductive body; the second conductive body to change the direction of ...

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Номер записи: 61

06-02-2020 дата публикации

Camera module autofocus actuator

Номер: US20200041872A1

Автор: Markus Köpfer

Принадлежит: ACTUATOR SOLUTIONS GMBH

Camera module autofocus actuator comprising a movable lens carrier, one or more shape memory alloy wires, a first return elastic element, a second return elastic element substantially identical to the and symmetric to the first return elastic element, wherein one end of the one or more shape memory alloy is mounted to the first return elastic element and the other end to another return elastic element.

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Номер записи: 62

18-02-2016 дата публикации

Phase Change Device for Use within a Volume of Fluid

Номер: US20160047362A1

Автор: Ambs Loran, Dunham Glen

Принадлежит:

A phase-change device for use in a volume of fluid, comprising a pressure vessel; a displacement cylinder; a displacement piston; a drive cylinder containing a phase-change material; a drive piston; and a gas spring. As the device sinks and experiences cooler fluid temperatures, the phase change material reduces in volume, causing the drive cylinder to move relative to the drive piston and thereby exert an outward force on the displacement piston. The displacement piston is pulled away from the displacement cylinder, increasing the overall displacement of the device. The increase in displacement increases the buoyancy of the device, thereby causing the device to rise in the fluid. 1. A phase-change device , comprising:a pressure vessel;a displacement cylinder rigidly affixed to the pressure vessel;a displacement piston movably situated within the displacement cylinder;a drive cylinder rigidly affixed to the displacement piston, the drive cylinder containing a phase-change material, the drive cylinder having an inner surface and an outer surface, the drive cylinder having portions of the outer surface accessible to the fluid;a drive piston movably situated within the drive cylinder and rigidly affixed to the pressure vessel; anda gas spring operatively connected to the displacement cylinder.2. The device of claim 1 , further comprising a flow controller claim 1 , comprising:a drive piston frame having one or more flow ports; anda gate assembly rigidly affixed to the displacement piston and having one or more flow gates.3. The device of claim 1 , further comprising arrested buoyancy components claim 1 , comprising:an expandable bladder located at least partially outside of the pressure vessel;a first connector, operatively connected between the displacement cylinder and the gas spring;a second connector, operatively connected between the first connector and the expandable bladder; anda valve operatively connected to the second hydraulic connector.4. The device of ...

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Номер записи: 63

14-02-2019 дата публикации

ACTUATOR FOR CONTROLLING THE FLUID PATHS OF A FILLING UNIT FOR A BEVERAGE FILLING SYSTEM, FILLING UNIT, AND BEVERAGE FILLING SYSTEM

Номер: US20190049034A1

Автор: Bruch Bernd, Clusserath Ludwig, Lorenz Jonathan, Ohrem Jochen

Принадлежит:

An actuator that controls flow through a fluid path during filling of beverages includes an actuator element that exerts an actuating force. In response to control signals, the actuator element transitions between an elongated state and a resting state. 115-. (canceled)16. An apparatus comprising an actuator that controls flow through a fluid path during filling of beverages , said actuator comprising a control unit and an actuator element that exerts an actuating force , wherein the control unit causes first and second control signals , wherein said actuator element transitions between an elongated state and a resting state in response to said control signals.17. The apparatus of claim 16 , wherein the actuator element exerts an actuation force that is between two-hundred and four-hundred newtons.18. The apparatus of claim 16 , wherein said actuator element comprises a magnetorheological elastomer.19. The apparatus of claim 16 , wherein said actuator element comprises a magnetorheological substance selected from the group consisting of fluid.20. The apparatus of claim 16 , wherein said actuator element comprises an electrorheological fluid.21. The apparatus of claim 16 , wherein said actuator element comprises a dielectric elastomer.22. The apparatus of claim 16 , wherein said actuator element a shape-memory alloy.23. The apparatus of claim 16 , wherein said actuator element comprises a magnetic shape-memory alloy.24. The apparatus of claim 16 , wherein said actuator element is one of a plurality of actuator elements that are connected in series.25. The apparatus of claim 16 , further comprising a folding bellows claim 16 , wherein said actuator element is one of a plurality of actuator elements that are connected in series to form claim 16 , at least in part claim 16 , said folding bellows.26. The apparatus of claim 16 , wherein said actuator element comprises a piezoelectric ceramic.27. The apparatus of claim 16 , wherein said actuator element comprises at least ...

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Номер записи: 64

23-02-2017 дата публикации

EVAPORATION-DRIVEN ENGINES

Номер: US20170051728A1

Автор: Chen Xi, Goodnight Davis W., SAHIN Ozgur

Принадлежит: THE TRUSTEES OF COLUMBIA UNIVERISTY IN THE CITY OF NEW YORK

Evaporation-driven engines are disclosed herein. An example engine can include a water source having a high humidity zone proximate the surface of the water source, a supporting structure, and a hygroscopic material disposed on the supporting structure and configured to generate mechanical force in response to a changing relative humidity. The hygroscopic material can be repeatedly exposed to the high humidity zone and removed from the high humidity zone thereby causing the hygroscopic material to generate mechanical force. 1. An evaporation-driven engine comprising:a water source having a high humidity zone proximate a surface of the water source;a supporting structure; anda hygroscopic material disposed on the supporting structure and configured to generate mechanical force in response to a changing relative humidity;wherein the hygroscopic material is repeatedly exposed to the high humidity zone and removed from high humidity zone thereby causing the hygroscopic material to generate mechanical force.2. The evaporation-driven engine of claim 1 , wherein the hygroscopic material comprises bacterial spores.3Bacillus subtilis. The evaporation-driven engine of claim 2 , wherein the bacterial spores are spores.4. The evaporation-driven engine of claim 1 , wherein the supporting structure is a sheet.5. The evaporation-driven engine of claim 4 , wherein the sheet is a polyimide sheet.6. The evaporation-driven engine of claim 4 , wherein the hygroscopic material is disposed on a first side of the sheet.7. The evaporation-driven engine of claim 4 , wherein the hygroscopic material is disposed alternately on a first side of the sheet and on a second side of the sheet.8. The evaporation-driven engine of claim 1 , further comprising a plurality of supporting structures claim 1 , each supporting structure having a hygroscopic material disposed thereon.9. The evaporation-driven engine of claim 1 , wherein the hygroscopic material is repeatedly exposed to the high humidity zone ...

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Номер записи: 65

15-05-2014 дата публикации

Shape memory alloy based linear actuator assembly

Номер: US20140130492A1

Автор: Avshalom Suissa, Guy Raz

Принадлежит: GM GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS LLC

A linear motion device includes a rod extending along a longitudinal axis, and a plurality of actuator units. Each of the plurality of actuator units includes at least one Shape Memory Alloy (SMA) element that is attached to a coupling mechanism. The at least one SMA element of each if the plurality of actuator units moves the coupling mechanism along the longitudinal axis, and into grasping engagement with the rod. Each actuator unit moves the rod a unit movement distance along the longitudinal axis in response to a control signal. The plurality of actuator units are actuated repeatedly in a cyclic order to move the rod in a continuous linear motion a distance greater than the unit movement distance of each of the plurality of actuator units.

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Номер записи: 66

21-02-2019 дата публикации

COMBINED STIMULATOR AND ELECTRODE ASSEMBLY FOR MOUSE ELECTRORETINOGRAPHY (ERG)

Номер: US20190053733A1

Автор: Chabot Marc, Doran Bruce

Принадлежит:

Apparatus for evoking and sensing ophthalmic physiological signals in an eye, the apparatus comprising: an elongated light pipe having a longitudinal axis, a distal end and a proximal end, the distal end terminating in a spheroidal recess; and an electrode having a distal end and a proximal end, the electrode being mounted to the elongated light pipe and extending proximally along the elongated light pipe so that the distal end of the electrode terminates at the spheroidal recess at the distal end of the elongated light pipe. 1. Apparatus for evoking and sensing ophthalmic physiological signals in an eye , the apparatus comprising:an elongated light pipe having a longitudinal axis, a distal end and a proximal end, the distal end terminating in a spheroidal recess; andan electrode having a distal end and a proximal end, the electrode being mounted to the elongated light pipe and extending proximally along the elongated light pipe so that the distal end of the electrode terminates adjacent to the spheroidal recess at the distal end of the elongated light pipe.2. Apparatus according to wherein the elongated light pipe comprises a configuration selected from the group consisting of cylindrical claim 1 , non-linear pseudo-cylindrical claim 1 , and tapered.3. Apparatus according to wherein the tapered configuration of the elongated light pipe comprises one from the group consisting of conical and frustoconical.4. Apparatus according to wherein the spheroidal recess is sized to match the curvature of the eye of a mouse.5. Apparatus according to wherein a pinhole aperture is formed on the surface of the spheroidal recess.6. Apparatus according to wherein the elongated light pipe comprises a light-transmissive material having a small acceptance angle.7. Apparatus according to wherein the elongated light pipe comprises Plexiglas or other acrylic claim 6 , Lexan or other polycarbonate claim 6 , or glass.8. Apparatus according to wherein the elongated light pipe comprises an ...

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Номер записи: 67

10-03-2022 дата публикации

Composite axial energy consumption device based on piezoelectricity and shape memory alloy

Номер: US20220074393A1

Автор: Gang Li, Hongnan Li, Xing FU, Xingheng ZHANG, Zhikai Xu, Zhiqian DONG

Принадлежит: Dalian University of Technology

The present invention belongs to the technical field of structural vibration control, and provides a composite axial energy consumption device based on piezoelectricity and shape memory alloy, comprising a screw, steel pipes, stiffening ribs, steel sheets, bolt-nuts, piezoceramics, screw caps and SMA wire bundles. The mechanical energy of the structure under pressure is converted into the electric energy of the piezoceramics and then the electric energy is converted into heat energy, so that energy consumption efficiency is high and mechanical performance is good. The SMA wire bundles have large tensile bearing capacity, shape memory effect and good corrosion resistance and fatigue resistance. The number of the segments and the specifications of the piezoceramics and the SMA wire bundles can be adjusted according to the actual needs, so that the structure can be adjusted according to the size of an axial force and specific stress conditions.

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Номер записи: 68

01-03-2018 дата публикации

SOFT ACTUATOR USING THERMOELECTRIC EFFECT

Номер: US20180058429A1

Автор: CHOI Youn Ho, HA Sung Mok, Kwon Oh-Seok, Lee Dong Ha

Принадлежит: DAEGU GYEONGBUK INSTITUTE OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

The present invention relates to a soft actuator moving linearly against external stimuli whose expansion and contraction can be actively controlled, suggesting that the actuator of the invention overcomes the problems of the conventional soft actuators, The soft actuator of the present invention can be repetitively driven quickly and accurately by controlling heating and cooling by using thermoelectric effect and, the soft actuator of the present invention can realize bending, tensioning, compression, and rotational driving of a tubular device containing a driver. 1. A soft actuator comprising a string that is contracted or expanded by heating or cooling; and a thermoelectric element to heat or cool the string above which is arranged at least on one side of the string.2. The soft actuator according to claim 1 , wherein the string is twisted or coiled.3. The soft actuator according to claim 1 , wherein the thermoelectric element is arranged at least on a part of the surface of the string.4. The soft actuator according to claim 3 , wherein the soft actuator additionally includes a control part to control the direction of current flowing in the thermoelectric element.5. The soft actuator according to claim 3 , wherein the soft actuator additionally includes an adhesive layer to connect the thermoelectric element to the surface of the string.6. The soft actuator according to claim 1 , wherein the string includes the first string and the second string and the thermoelectric element is arranged between the first string and the second string.7. The soft actuator according to claim 6 , wherein the first string displays forward reaction by the thermoelectric element and the second string displays reverse reaction by the thermoelectric element.8. The soft actuator according to claim 6 , wherein the thermoelectric element has flexibility.9. The soft actuator according to claim 1 , wherein the thermoelectric element is arranged on one end of the string.10. The soft actuator ...

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Номер записи: 69

20-02-2020 дата публикации

FLUID DRIVEN MOTOR DEVICE

Номер: US20200056597A1

Автор: SAFAR SAMIR HANNA

Принадлежит:

A fluid driven motor device is provided, which does not use a magnet or an armature coil, includes a motor casing chamber containing a fluid mixture, a shaft disposed within the chamber, and a plurality of ray guns arranged on the periphery of the chamber, and a unidirectional gear assembly. The shaft has a plurality of cell holders, onto which a corresponding plurality of membrane cells is attached. Each membrane cell holds a predetermined quantity of a liquid. The membrane cells expand continuously based on the firing of the subatomic rays by the plurality of ray guns causing the shaft to rotate. The device has several advantages such as being very energy and heat efficient, having lesser weight as compared to conventional electromagnetic coil based motors. 2. The fluid driven motor as claimed in claim 1 , wherein the plurality of ray guns fire synchronously with respect to each other and consecutively with respect to a single membrane cell.3. The fluid driven motor device as claimed in any of the or claim 1 , wherein the each single ray gun is directed at a specific position that is occupied by a single membrane cell cyclically.4. The fluid driven motor device as claimed in claim 3 , wherein the ratio of the volumes of the inert gas to the coolant liquid contained in the motor casing chamber is 1:100.5. The fluid driven motor device as claimed in claim 4 , wherein the plurality of ray guns emit sub atomic rays such as laser beams of predetermined characteristics.6. The fluid driven motor device as claimed in claim 5 , wherein the pointed sharp solid member of the membrane cell has a polished surface and is provided with a sharp edge so as to minimize frictional resistance. The present application is a continuation-in-part of currently pending U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/844,620, filed on Dec. 18, 2017, which is hereby incorporated by reference herein.Not ApplicableNot ApplicableNot ApplicableThe present invention belongs to the field of fluid driven ...

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Номер записи: 70

17-03-2022 дата публикации

Method for Operating a Liquid Air Energy Storage

Номер: US20220082092A1

Автор: SINATOV STANISLAV

Принадлежит: Newpolygen Technologies Ltd.

A method for operating the liquid air energy storage (LAES) includes production of the storable liquid air through consumption of a low-demand power and recovery the liquid air for co-production of an on-demand power and a high-grade saleable cold thermal energy which may be used, say, for liquefaction of the delivered natural gas; in so doing zero carbon footprint is provided both for fueled augmentation of the LAES power output and for LNG co-production at the LAES facility. 1. A method for operating a liquid air energy storage (LAES) , comprising in combination:charging the LAES through consuming a low-demand power from a co-located renewable energy source or a grid for after-cooled compressing a process air, as a mixture of a pressurized pre-treated feed air and a recirculating air, further boost after-cooled compressing said process air, work expanding and accompanied refrigerating a recirculating part of the process air, recovering said work of expanding for powering the boost compressing and using a refrigerated recirculating air for in-direct cryogenic cooling a rest of the process air, and further depressurizing, partial liquefying and separating said cryogenically cooled rest of the process air into a liquid air and a cold vapor with combining the refrigerated recirculating air and said cold vapor;storing a liquid air in a storage tank;delivering a natural gas (NG) into the LAES;discharging the LAES through producing and delivering an on-demand power into the grid by means of pumping the liquid air from the storage tank, sequential re-gasifying said liquid air and heating a re-gasified air by a LAES exhaust with further work partial expanding the re-gasified air in a power block and recovering the expanded air as an oxidant for a burning of a minor part of said delivered NG in a fueled prime mover being used in said power block for augmentation of the LAES on-demand power and selected from a group consisting of, but not limited to an industrial rotating ...

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Номер записи: 71

28-02-2019 дата публикации

MATERIALS, DEVICES, AND METHODS FOR RESONANT AMBIENT THERMAL ENERGY HARVESTING

Номер: US20190063412A1

Автор: Cottrill Anton Lee, Koman Volodymyr B., Liu Tianxiang, Mahajan Sayalee Girish, Strano Michael S.

Принадлежит:

The present disclosure is directed to materials, devices, and methods for resonant ambient thermal energy harvesting. Thermal energy can be harvested using thermoelectric resonators that capture and store ambient thermal fluctuations and convert the fluctuations to energy. The thermal resonators can include heat engines disposed between masses of varying sizes or diodes. The masses or diodes can be made of high and ultra-high effusivity materials to transfer thermal energy through the resonator and optimize power output. The masses or diodes of the resonator can be tuned to the dominant frequency of the temperature waveform to maximize the amount of energy being converted. The resonators can be added to existing structures to supply or generate power, and, in some embodiments, the structures themselves can be a mass of the thermal resonator. Methods for constructing and/or using such devices are also provided, as are methods for formulating ultra-high effusivity materials. 1. An energy harvesting device , comprising:a first thermal mass having a first thermal diffusion time scale;a second thermal mass having a second thermal diffusion time scale; anda heat engine disposed between the first thermal mass and the second thermal mass and configured to translate a spatial temperature difference between the first thermal mass and the second thermal mass into power,wherein at least one of the first thermal mass or the second thermal mass is tuned based on the respective first thermal diffusion time scale or the second thermal diffusion time scale such that the spatial temperature difference exists across the heat engine for power extraction.2. The energy harvesting device of claim 1 , wherein at least one of the first thermal mass or the second thermal mass comprises one or more ultra-high thermal effusivity materials.3. The energy harvesting device of claim 2 , wherein the one or more ultra-high thermal effusivity materials are disposed within a housing of the at least ...

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Номер записи: 72

10-03-2016 дата публикации

WAX-MOTOR WITH HIGH CYCLE LIFE

Номер: US20160069330A1

Автор: MCDONALD Randy S., STELLOH Brian A.

Принадлежит:

A seal assembly for a wax motor or the like provides an elastomeric seal, fitting against an actuator shaft that may slide through the elastomeric seal, where the elastomeric seal has mold flash regions that are displaced from the contact area between the shaft and the elastomeric seal significantly increasing elastomeric seal life. 1. A thermally responsive actuator comprising:a housing having a bore extending along an axis and opening at a first end of the housing;a piston slidable along the axis and having a shaft extendable through the opening of the housing with movement of the piston;a thermal expansion material positioned within the bore in contact with the piston; anda seal assembly attached to the first end of the housing to cover the opening and surround a portion of the shaft to allow the shaft to slide through the seal assembly while preventing escape of the thermal expansion material;wherein the seal assembly includes an elastomeric seal surrounding a portion of the shaft and contacting the portion of the shaft over a contact region, the elastomeric seal having mold flash regions displaced from a center of the contact region.2. The thermally responsive actuator of wherein the contact region of the elastomeric seal in a relaxed state has a substantially constant cross-section.3. The thermally responsive actuator of wherein the elastomeric seal fits within a counter bore in the housing having a diameter larger than a relaxed diameter of the elastomeric seal.4. The thermally responsive actuator of wherein the counter bore is coaxially about a bore having a diameter extending substantially midway between a diameter of an outer periphery of the elastomeric seal and an inner periphery of the elastomeric seal as installed in the counter bore.5. The thermally responsive actuator of wherein the elastomeric seal further includes a gate mark removed from the contact region.6. The thermally responsive actuator of wherein the elastomeric seal includes witness marks ...

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Номер записи: 73

10-03-2016 дата публикации

Nitinol Heat Engine with Mechanical Storage Mechanism

Номер: US20160069331A1

Автор: Joseph Lawrence KELLOGG, Mingming Guo Kellogg

Принадлежит: Individual

A generator which uses one or more harvesting modules, each consisting of one or more nitinol elements, to harvest low grade thermal energy, converting it into high grade mechanical energy. The mechanical energy decoupled from the power generator by means of a mechanical energy storage mechanism, a mechanism capable of summing successive cycles, and a control mechanism. Stored mechanical energy is then utilized when needed.

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Номер записи: 74

27-02-2020 дата публикации

IMPROVEMENTS IN ARTIFICIAL MUSCLE ACTUATORS

Номер: US20200063720A1

Автор: Allen Randy, Guerrero Marilu, Le Franklin, LIMA Marcio Dias, Plata Luis, Yang Yang

Принадлежит: Lintec Of America, Inc.

An actuator includes a plurality of artificial muscle fibers and at least one conducting material. The at least one conducting material electrically stimulates the plurality of artificial muscle fibers during activation of the actuator. An actuator device includes at least one artificial muscle fiber and at least one high-strength creep-resistant fiber. 1. An actuator device comprising:a plurality of artificial muscle fibers; andat least one conducting material that electrically stimulates the plurality of artificial muscle fibers during actuation.2. The actuator device according to claim 1 , wherein the at least one conducting material is a metal wire.3. The actuator device according to claim 2 , wherein the at least one metal wire is wrapped around at least one of the plurality of artificial muscle fibers.4. The actuator device according to claim 1 , wherein the at least one conducting material is a carbon nanotube yarn.5. The actuator device according to claim 1 , wherein the plurality of artificial muscle fibers are arranged in a rectangular array and the at least one conducting material occupies gaps between the artificial muscle fibers.6. The actuator device according to claim 1 , wherein the plurality of artificial muscle fibers are arranged in a hexagonal array and the at least one conducting material occupies the center of the array.7. The actuator device according to claim 1 , wherein the at least one conducting material is a conductive coating.8. The actuator device according to claim 7 , wherein the conductive coating is around at least one of the plurality of artificial muscle fibers.9. The actuator device according to claim 8 , wherein the conductive coating is around the entire plurality of artificial muscle fibers.10. The actuator device according to claim 1 , further comprising electrical insulation that insulates a first conducting material from a second conducting material.11. The actuator device according to claim 1 , wherein the at least one ...

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Номер записи: 75

09-03-2017 дата публикации

METHOD AND DEVICE FOR MODIFYING A CHARACTERISTIC OF A WIRE ELEMENT, PARTICULARLY THE DISTANCE SEAPARTING ITS TWO ENDS

Номер: US20170067453A1

Автор: ANTKOWIAK ARNAUD, ELETTRO HERVÉ, NEUKIRCH SÉBASTIEN, VOLLRATH FRITZ

Принадлежит:

A device including a wire element and a winding element to wind the wire element. The winding element is configured to change from a first stable state to a second stable state. A change in the state occurs either naturally or by changing an environment parameter so as to result in the wire element being wound on the winding element. In the naturally occurring state change, the energy of interaction between the wire element and the environment is higher than the energy of interaction between the wire element and the winding element. The environment parameter change results in the wire element being wound on the winding element during the change from the first state to the second state. 110-. (canceled)11. A device comprising a wire element and a winding element to wind the wire element , the winding element is configured to change from a first stable state to a second stable state to result in the wire element being wound in the winding element , wherein a change in the state occurs either naturally when an energy of interaction between the wire element and an environment is higher than the energy of interaction between the wire element and the winding element , or by changing an environment parameter to result in the wire element being wound in the winding element during the change from the first stable state to the second stable state.12. The device according to claim 11 , wherein the wire element has a diameter ranging between 0.1 micron and 1 cm.13. The device according to claim 12 , wherein the diameter of the wire element is below 10 microns.14. The device according to claim 11 , wherein the winding element is made of one of the following material: tin claim 11 , wax claim 11 , silicone claim 11 , water or a liquid that wets the wire element.15. The device according to claim 11 , wherein the wire element is characterized in that the wire element is made of one of the following material: metals claim 11 , elastomers claim 11 , polymers claim 11 , or a material ...

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Номер записи: 76

11-03-2021 дата публикации

UNTWISTED ARTIFICIAL MUSCLE

Номер: US20210071649A1

Автор: LIMA Marcio Dias

Принадлежит: Lintec Of America, Inc.

An actuator and method of manufacturing an actuator that includes a core fiber with polymers aligned along the length of the core fiber, and a wire that is wound around and fixed to the core fiber. The winding of the wire is engineered based on the torsional actuation. Upon heating the core fiber, the wire impedes radial expansion of the core fiber and converts the radial expansion into a torsional actuation. 1. An actuator comprising:a core fiber comprising polymers aligned along a length of the core fiber, the core fiber being disposed between two components that prevent linear and torsional movement at opposing ends of the core fiber; anda wire wound around the core fiber that impedes a radial expansion of the core fiber and converts the radial expansion to a torsional actuation.2. The actuator according to claim 1 , wherein the core fiber has a negative linear thermal expansion coefficient.3. The actuator according to claim 1 , wherein the core fiber has a higher radial thermal expansion coefficient than a bulk thermal expansion coefficient of the polymers.4. The actuator according to claim 1 , wherein a Young's modulus and a bending modulus of the wire are selected based on the torsional actuation.5. The actuator according claim 1 , wherein the wire is secured to the core fiber with an adhesive.6. The actuator according claim 1 , wherein the wire is helically wound around the core fiber.7. The actuator according to claim 1 , wherein the wire is wound at a specific pitch claim 1 , such that edges of the wire do not touch upon the torsional actuation.8. The actuator according to claim 1 , wherein the wire is non-uniformly wound based on the torsional actuation.9. The actuator according to claim 1 , wherein the core fiber is any of nylon claim 1 , Polyethylene claim 1 , Polyester claim 1 , Polyethylene terephthalate (PET) claim 1 , Polyethylene naphthalate (PEN) claim 1 , Polypropylene claim 1 , polyvinylidene difluoride (PVDF) claim 1 , Polyether ether ketone ( ...

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Номер записи: 77

15-03-2018 дата публикации

COILED, TWISTED NANOFIBER YARN AND POLYMER FIBER TORSIONAL ACTUATORS

Номер: US20180073490A1

Автор: Baughman Ray H., DeAndrade Monica Jung, Fang Shaoli, Haines Carter S., Kozlov Mikhail E., Li Na, LIMA Márcio D., Oh Jiyoung, Suh Dongseok

Принадлежит: BOARD OF REGENTS, THE UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS SYSTEM

Actuators (artificial muscles) comprising twist-spun nanofiber yarn or twist-inserted polymer fibers generate torsional actuation when powered electrically, photonically, chemically, thermally, by absorption, or by other means. These artificial muscles utilize coiled yarns/polymer fibers and can be either neat or comprising a guest. In some embodiments, the torsional fiber actuator includes a first polymer fiber (exhibiting a first polymer fiber diameter) and a torsional return spring in communication with the first polymer fiber. The first polymer fiber is configured to include a first plurality of twists in a first direction to produce a twisted polymer fiber. The first polymer fiber is further configured to include a plurality of coils in the twisted polymer fiber in a second direction each coil having a mean coil diameter. In some embodiments, the torsional nanofiber actuator includes a first carbon nanofiber yarn (having a yarn diameter) and a torsional return spring in communication with the first carbon nanofiber yarn. The first carbon nanofiber yarn includes a plurality of twists in a first direction to produce a twisted carbon nanofiber yarn. The first carbon nanofiber yarn further includes a plurality of coils in the twisted carbon nanofiber yarn, with each coil having a mean coil diameter greater than the yarn diameter. 1103-. (canceled)104. A torsional fiber actuator comprising: (i) a first plurality of twists in a first direction to produce a twisted polymer fiber, and', '(ii) a plurality of coils in the twisted polymer fiber in a second direction each coil having a mean coil diameter; and, '(a) a first polymer fiber exhibiting a first polymer fiber diameter, the first polymer fiber configured to include'}(b) a torsional return spring in communication with the first polymer fiber.105. The torsional fiber actuator of claim 104 , wherein the first direction and the second direction are the same.106. The torsional fiber actuator of claim 104 , wherein the ...

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Номер записи: 78

24-03-2022 дата публикации

COMPRESSED GAS ENERGY STORAGE SYSTEM

Номер: US20220090585A1

Автор: Lewis Cameron, McGillis Andrew

Принадлежит:

A compressed air energy storage system may have an accumulator and a thermal storage subsystem having a cold storage chamber for containing a supply of granular heat transfer, a hot storage chamber and at least a first mixing chamber in the gas flow path and having an interior in which the compressed gas contacts the granular heat transfer particles at a mixing pressure that is greater than the cold storage pressure and the hot storage pressure and a conveying system operable to selectably move the granular heat transfer particles from the cold storage chamber, through the first mixing chamber and into the hot storage chamber, and vice versa. 1. A compressed air energy storage system comprising:a) an accumulator disposed underground and having an interior configured to contain compressed gas at a storage pressure that is at least 10 bar when in use;b) a gas compressor/expander subsystem comprising at least a first compression stage having a first gas inlet and a gas outlet in fluid communication with the accumulator interior via a gas flow path for conveying compressed gas at the storage pressure to the accumulator when in a charging mode and from the accumulator when in a discharging mode;{'claim-text': ['i) a cold storage chamber for containing a supply of granular heat transfer particles at a cold temperature and cold storage pressure;', 'ii) a hot storage chamber for containing the supply of granular heat transfer particles at a hot temperature and hot storage pressure;', 'iii) at least a first mixing chamber in the gas flow path and having an interior in which the compressed gas contacts the granular heat transfer particles at a mixing pressure that is greater than the cold storage pressure and the hot storage pressure;', 'iv) a conveying system operable to selectably move the granular heat transfer particles from the cold storage chamber, through the first mixing chamber and into the hot storage chamber, and vice versa;'], '#text': 'c) a thermal storage ...

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Номер записи: 79

05-03-2020 дата публикации

Drive component of a micro-needle system and method for driving the same, micro-needle system and method for fabricating the same

Номер: US20200071156A1

Автор: Lijia ZHOU, Quanguo Zhou, Ronghua LAN, Rongjian YAN, Zhidong WANG

Принадлежит: BOE Technology Group Co Ltd

The disclosure discloses a drive component of a micro-needle system, a method for driving the same, a micro-needle system and a method for fabricating the same; wherein the drive component includes a substrate with a groove; a bottom electrode in the groove; an electro-active polymer layer, covering the bottom electrode, in the groove; and an upper flexible electrode covering the electro-active polymer layer; wherein the upper flexible electrode and the bottom electrode are configured to generate a voltage, and the electro-active polymer layer is configured to generate a strain under the voltage.

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Номер записи: 80

16-03-2017 дата публикации

Display device for a motor vehicle

Номер: US20170075118A1

Автор: Christian Wall

Принадлежит: Audi AG

In a motor vehicle, a display device has a display area displaying an image projected by an optical device by way of a reflection area as a virtual image. The optical device has at least one reflector and an actuator which moves the reflector. The actuator includes a shape memory material, which is designed to be deformed by a temperature-dependent phase transition and thereby move the reflector. By the provision of a thermal shape memory actuator that functions without an electric current, the optical path can be changed, so that overheating of internal temperature-sensitive components of the display device can be prevented in a way that is particularly inexpensive and efficient in terms of installation space and it is also possible to dispense with electronic sensing, evaluation and activation entirely.

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Номер записи: 81

12-06-2014 дата публикации

Temperature control device with a passive thermal feedback control valve

Номер: US20140157769A1

Автор: John Daly, Nick Jeffers

Принадлежит: Alcatel Lucent Ireland Ltd

A device, comprising a flow controller. The flow controller includes a body having walls that define a channel within the body, and a passive flow control valve. The passive control valve has a moveable member that includes a thermal shape memory material, the moveable member configured to change an aperture size in the channel in response to a reversible temperature-induced shape transformation of the thermal shape memory material.

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Номер записи: 82

26-03-2015 дата публикации

DEVICE FOR CONVERTING HEAT ENERGY INTO MECHANICAL ENERGY WITH IMPROVED EFFICIENCY

Номер: US20150084480A1

Автор: Coronel Philippe, Savelli Guillaume

Принадлежит: COMMISSARIAT A L'ENERGIE ATOMIQUE ET AUX ENE ALT

The invention relates to a device for converting heat energy into mechanical energy comprising a first () and a second () bistable area passing from a first stable state to a second stable state by means of a thermal effect or mechanical action, said areas () being mechanically coupled such that the passage from one state to the other of one area () by means of a thermal effect causes the other area () to pass from one state to the other, each area () having a blistering temperature and an unblistering temperature, the blistering temperature being higher than the unblistering temperature. Said device is intended to be placed in contact with an environment (SC) having at least one given temperature, such that the temperature of the environment (SC) is lower than the blistering temperature of the first area () and is higher than the blistering temperature (Tc6) of the second area (). 1: Device for converting heat energy into mechanical energy comprising at least one first and one second bistable area , able to pass from a first stable state to a second stable state by means of a thermal effect or mechanical action , said bistable areas being mechanically coupled such that the passage from one stable state to the other of one of the bistable areas by means of a thermal effect causes the passage from one stable state to the other of the other bistable area , each of said bistable areas having a first temperature at which it passes from the first stable state to the second stable state and a second temperature at which it passes from the second stable state to the first stable state , the first temperature being higher than the second temperature , and in which the first temperature of the first bistable area is higher than the first temperature of the second bistable area.2: Conversion device according to claim 1 , in which the bistable areas are made in one piece of a bimetallic strip element.3: Conversion device according to claim 1 , in which the bistable areas are ...

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Номер записи: 83

30-03-2017 дата публикации

APPARATUS FOR MONITORING AN EYE AND/OR ORBITAL REGION DURING SURGERY, AND ASSOCIATED METHOD

Номер: US20170086670A1

Автор: LOWRANCE MATTHEW DAVID

Принадлежит:

An apparatus is provided for monitoring an orbital area, including an eye, of a patient during surgery. A flexible pressure-sensitive element is configured to be responsive to a change in pressure applied thereto. The pressure-sensitive element is adapted to be applied over and adhered to the orbital area so as to be disposed over and conformed to a closed eyelid and the eye associated therewith, to sense pressure affecting the eye of the patient. A measuring arrangement is in communication with the pressure-sensing element, wherein the measuring arrangement is configured to determine a change in a property of the pressure-sensitive element in response to the pressure-sensitive element experiencing a change in pressure applied thereto. Associated methods are also provided. 1. An apparatus for monitoring an orbital area , including an eye , of a patient during surgery , the apparatus comprising:a flexible pressure-sensitive element configured to be responsive to a change in pressure applied thereto, the pressure-sensitive element being adapted to be applied over and adhered to the orbital area so as to be disposed over and conformed to a closed eyelid and the eye associated therewith, to sense pressure affecting the eye of the patient; anda measuring arrangement in communication with the pressure-sensing element, the measuring arrangement being configured to determine a change in a property of the pressure-sensitive element in response to the pressure-sensitive element experiencing a change in pressure applied thereto.2. The apparatus of claim 1 , comprising a temporary adhesive material engaged with the pressure-sensitive element and cooperating therewith to adhere the pressure-sensitive element to the orbital area to hold the eyelid closed.3. The apparatus of claim 1 , comprising a substrate having a temporary adhesive material applied thereto claim 1 , and having the pressure-sensitive element engaged therewith claim 1 , the substrate cooperating with the ...

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Номер записи: 84

21-03-2019 дата публикации

THERMOACOUSTIC ENGINE, AND DESIGNING METHOD FOR THERMOACOUSTIC ENGINE

Номер: US20190085833A1

Автор: FUKAYA Noriyuki, Ito Takeshi

Принадлежит: Central Motor Wheel Co., Ltd.

Disclosed are a thermoacoustic engine with high conversion efficiency from heat energy to acoustic energy and a designing method for the thermoacoustic engine. A stack of the thermoacoustic engine has a plurality of flow passages extending through a thermoacoustic piping section. A hot heat exchanger is coupled to one end in a longitudinal direction of the stack. A cold heat exchanger is coupled to the other end in the longitudinal direction of the stack. And a length in the longitudinal direction of the hot heat exchanger is greater than a length in the longitudinal direction of the stack, and is greater than a length in the longitudinal direction of the cold heat exchanger. 1. A thermoacoustic engine incorporated in a thermoacoustic piping section in which a working gas is enclosed and sealed , the thermoacoustic engine comprising:a stack having a plurality of flow passages extending through the thermoacoustic piping section in a longitudinal direction of the thermoacoustic piping section;a hot heat exchanger coupled to one end in a longitudinal direction of the stack, the hot heat exchanger having an internal space for hot heat exchanging communicating with the plurality of flow passages and extending through the hot heat exchanger in the longitudinal direction, and adapted to heat the working gas in the internal space for hot heat exchanging; anda cold heat exchanger coupled to the other end in the longitudinal direction of the stack, the cold heat exchanger having an internal space for cold heat exchanging communicating with the plurality of flow passages and extending through the cold heat exchanger in the longitudinal direction, and adapted to cool the working gas in the internal space for cold heat exchanging, whereina length in the longitudinal direction of the hot heat exchanger is greater than a length in the longitudinal direction of the stack, and is greater than a length in the longitudinal direction of the cold heat exchanger.2. The thermoacoustic ...

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Номер записи: 85

19-03-2020 дата публикации

ELONGATE FIBER ARTIFICIAL MUSCLES AND METHOD OF FABRICATION

Номер: US20200088174A1

Автор: Lamuta Caterina, Tawfick Sameh H.

Принадлежит:

An elongate fiber artificial muscle includes or consists of an elongate carbon or glass fiber and at least a partial coating of a polymer, and preferably a full shell coating to form a core-shell arrangement, that is volumetrically responsive to thermal changes or to moisture changes. Additional elongate fiber artificial muscles of the invention include a plurality of elongate carbon or glass fibers that are infiltrated between the fibers with a polymer that is volumetrically responsive to thermal changes or to moisture changes. In a fabrication method, the rheology (flow characteristic) of a polymer precursor is adjusted with solvent so it is less viscous. A fiber or plurality of fibers (pre-twisted or untwisted), such as a tow is dipped in the polymer precursor. The fiber or fibers is then pulled out of the polymer precursor and hung to allow polymer to distribute and then cured and can be twisted to coil prior to curing. A model is provided to fabricate elongate fiber artificial muscle with specific characteristics based upon a thermal or moisture expansion coefficient of the polymer, its elongation capability percentage before flaking or breaking, and its elastic modulus. 1. A elongate fiber artificial muscle comprising an elongate carbon or glass fiber and at least a partial coating of a polymer , wherein the polymer is volumetrically responsive to thermal changes or to moisture changes.2. The elongate fiber artificial muscle of claim 1 , wherein the elongate fiber artificial muscle comprises a core of the carbon or glass fiber and a shell of the polymer.3. The elongate fiber artificial muscle of claim 2 , wherein the elongate fiber artificial muscle consists of the core of the carbon or glass fiber and a shell of the polymer.4. The elongate fiber artificial muscle of claim 1 , comprising a plurality of elongate carbon or glass fibers arranged together with the polymer infiltrated between the plurality of elongate carbon or glass fibers.5. The elongate fiber ...

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Номер записи: 86

19-03-2020 дата публикации

Thermally-powered coiled polymer fiber tensile actuator system and method

Номер: US20200088175A1

Автор: Carter S. Haines, Dongseok SUH, Jiyoung Oh, Marcio D. Lima, Mikhail E. KOZLOV, Monica Jung DeAndrade, NA Li, Ray H. Baughman, Shaoli Fang

Принадлежит: University of Texas System

Actuators (artificial muscles) comprising twist-spun nanofiber twist-inserted polymer fibers generate tensile actuation when powered electrically, photonically, chemically, thermally, by absorption, or by other means. These artificial muscles utilize coiled polymer fibers and can be either neat or comprising a guest. In some embodiments, the coiled polymer fibers actuator can be incorporated into an article, such as a textile, braid, clothing, smart packaging, or a mechanical system, and the coiled polymer fiber in the coiled polymer fiber actuator can have a stroke amplification factor of 5 or greater.

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Номер записи: 87

16-04-2015 дата публикации

Ratcheting shape memory alloy actuators and systems and methods including the same

Номер: US20150101452A1

Автор: Frederick T. Calkins, Thomas MARTIG, Tony Koung

Принадлежит: Boeing Co

Ratcheting shape memory alloy actuators and systems and methods including the same are disclosed herein. The ratcheting shape memory alloy actuators include a ratcheting assembly that is operatively coupled to a first bracket and a shape memory alloy element that is operatively coupled to the ratcheting assembly and to a second bracket. The first bracket is configured to be operatively coupled to a first structure, while the second bracket is configured to be operatively coupled to a second structure. The shape memory alloy element is configured to apply a motive force to the ratcheting assembly upon deformation between a first conformation and a second conformation. The ratcheting assembly is configured to utilize the motive force to selectively adjust an orientation of the first structure relative to the second structure.

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Номер записи: 88

01-04-2021 дата публикации

POWER WIRING NETWORK APPARATUS

Номер: US20210099107A1

Автор: SHIGA Naomi, Yoshida Masayoshi

Принадлежит: ZEON CORPORATION

The present disclosure aims to provide a power wiring network apparatus capable of constructing a highly portable power wiring network, without the need to maintain infrastructure. A power wiring network apparatus includes a wiring member, including first connectors and a conductive portion electrically connecting the first connectors to enable power supply, and circuit elements each including a second connector mechanically and electrically attachable to any first connector. The circuit elements include energy harvesting elements capable of outputting, from the second connector, power generated by energy harvesting and load elements capable of consuming power inputted from the second connector. At least some energy harvesting elements and load elements are capable of power line data communication via a power line including the first connectors and conductive portion. 1. A power wiring network apparatus comprising:a wiring member comprising a plurality of first connectors and a conductive portion electrically connecting the plurality of first connectors in a manner capable of supplying power; anda plurality of circuit elements each comprising a second connector mechanically and electrically attachable to and detachable from any first connector among the plurality of first connectors; an energy harvesting element as a circuit element capable of outputting, from the second connector, power generated by energy harvesting; and', 'a load element as a circuit element capable of consuming power inputted from the second connector; and, 'wherein the plurality of circuit elements comprises'}wherein at least some of the energy harvesting element and the load element are capable of power line data communication via a power line including the first connectors and the conductive portion.2. The power wiring network apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the energy harvesting element comprises a first transmitter configured to transmit data via the second connector.3. The power wiring ...

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Номер записи: 89

12-04-2018 дата публикации

TEMPERATURE SENSITIVE SYSTEM

Номер: US20180102232A1

Автор: FAN SHOU-SHAN, JIANG KAI-LI, Liu Kai, MA HE, WEI YANG

Принадлежит:

The disclosure relates to a temperature sensitive system. The system includes a powder, a detector, a first electrode, a second electrode and an actuator. The powder, the detector, the first electrode, the second electrode and the actuator are connected to form a loop circuit. The actuator can deform in response to temperature change so that the circuit to be on or off. The detector is connected to the actuator in parallel or in series and configured to show the current change of the loop circuit to the user. The actuator includes a carbon nanotube layer and a vanadium dioxide layer (VO) layer stacked with each other. Because the drastic, reversible phase transition of VO, the actuator has giant deformation amplitude and fast response and the temperature sensitive system has high sensitivity. 1. A temperature sensitive system comprising: a powder , a detector , a first electrode , a second electrode and an actuator; the powder , the detector , the first electrode , the second electrode and the actuator are connected to form a loop circuit; wherein the loop circuit is in an on state or an off state , the state of the loop circuit is switched by a deformation of the actuator in response to a temperature change of the actuator; the detector is connected to the actuator in parallel or in series and shows a current change of the loop circuit; wherein the actuator comprises a carbon nanotube layer and a vanadium dioxide layer on the carbon nanotube layer.2. The temperature sensitive system of claim 1 , wherein the actuator further comprises a carbon nanotube film located in the vanadium dioxide layer and spaced apart from the carbon nanotube layer claim 1 , wherein a thickness of the carbon nanotube film is less than 30 nanometers.3. The temperature sensitive system of claim 2 , wherein the actuator further comprises a plurality of carbon nanotube film located in the vanadium dioxide layer and spaced apart from each other claim 2 , wherein a distance between every two ...

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Номер записи: 90

03-07-2014 дата публикации

CHARGED PARTICLE INDUCTION FROM IONOSPHERE TO GROUND

Номер: US20140185180A1

Автор: Lane Glenn E.

Принадлежит:

A charged particle induction apparatus and method comprising a high power light emitting means, such as a laser array, in operable communication with a high energy output means to accomplish initiation of at least two concentric plasma channels in atmosphere extending from the Earth's surface to the charge-rich upper atmosphere, including the ionosphere, for the transmission of charged particles therethrough to ground using the surrounding atmosphere as an insulator. The transmitted energy is drawn down (due to an artificially created potential) through the conductive plasma channels to collection means. 1. An apparatus for inducing the flow of charged particles from the charge-rich outer atmosphere to ground , comprising:a. means for generating a first conductive channel through the atmosphere and in communication with the charge-rich outer atmosphere, said first conductive channel being substantially ring-shaped in cross-section and comprised of a wall of partially ionized atmosphere; said first conductive channel having a diameter;b. means for generating a second conductive channel through the atmosphere and in communication with the charge-rich outer atmosphere, said second conductive channel being substantially ring-shaped in cross-section and comprised of a wall of partially ionized atmosphere; said second conductive channel having a diameter greater than said diameter of said first conductive channel; said first conductive channel and said second conductive channel being concentric; andc. charged particle collection means associated with said means for generating said first and said second conductive channels.2. The apparatus for inducing the flow of charged particles from the charge-rich outer atmosphere to ground of claim 1 , wherein said charged particle collection means is comprised of a at least one electrode attached to a support structure.3. The apparatus for inducing the flow of charged particles from the charge-rich outer atmosphere to ground of ...

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Номер записи: 91

04-04-2019 дата публикации

DRIVE COMPONENT FOR A MOTOR VEHICLE, AND MOTOR VEHICLE

Номер: US20190101032A1

Автор: GRAF Philip, Köpp Andreas

Принадлежит: Audi AG

A component for a motor vehicle, with at least one receiving space for structural elements of the drive component, with at least one first wall that delimits the receiving space at least partially, by way of which at least one collecting region for collecting a lubricant for lubricating the structural elements is delimited at least partially, and with at least one second wall, which is arranged on a side of the first wall that faces away from the collecting region, and which is spaced apart from the first wall at least in a partial region, so that, between the walls, an intermediate space that is delimited at least partially by the walls is formed. For setting a heat transfer coefficient between the walls, a liquid can be introduced into the intermediate space and discharged out of the intermediate space. 110-. (canceled)11. A drive component for a motor vehicle , comprising:at least one receiving space for structural elements of the drive component, with at least one first wall that delimits the receiving space at least partially, by way of which at least one collecting region for collecting a lubricant for lubricating the structural elements is delimited at least partially, and with at least one second wall, which is arranged on a side of the first wall that faces away from the collecting region and which is spaced apart from the first wall at least in a partial region, so that, between the walls, an intermediate space that is delimited at least partially by the walls is formed, wherein, for setting a heat transfer coefficient between the walls, a liquid can be introduced into the intermediate space and can be discharged out of the intermediate space, whereinat least one reservoir, which is in fluidic connection with the intermediate space, for taking up the liquid; andat least one displacement element, which can be moved at least partially into the reservoir in order to thereby bring about a displacement of at least a part of the liquid out of the reservoir into ...

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Номер записи: 92

23-04-2015 дата публикации

Method And System For Measuring Pyruvate

Номер: US20150112173A1

Автор: Liu Zenghe, Yao Huanfen

Принадлежит: GOOGLE INC.

A body-mountable pyruvate sensing device includes an electrochemical sensor embedded in a polymeric material configured for mounting to a surface of an eye. The electrochemical sensor includes a working electrode, a reference electrode, and a reagent localized near the working electrode that selectively reacts with pyruvate. Application of a voltage between the working electrode and the reference electrode causes a current related to a concentration of pyruvate in a fluid to which the electrochemical sensor is exposed; the current is measured by the body-mountable device and wirelessly communicated. 1. A body-mountable device comprising:a shaped polymeric material;a substrate at least partially embedded within the shaped polymeric material;an antenna disposed on the substrate; a working electrode;', 'a reagent that selectively reacts with pyruvate, wherein the reagent is localized proximate to the working electrode; and', 'a reference electrode; and, 'an electrochemical sensor disposed on the substrate and comprisinga controller electrically connected to the electrochemical sensor and the antenna, wherein the controller is configured to: (i) apply a voltage between the working electrode and the reference electrode sufficient to generate an amperometric current through the working electrode related to the concentration of pyruvate in a fluid to which the body-mountable device is exposed; (ii) measure the amperometric current; and (iii) use the antenna to indicate the measured amperometric current.2. The body-mountable device according to claim 1 , wherein the fluid is a tear fluid of an eye claim 1 , and wherein the shaped polymeric material has a concave surface and a convex surface claim 1 , wherein the concave surface is configured to be removably mounted over a corneal surface and the convex surface is configured to be compatible with eyelid motion when the concave surface is so mounted.3. The body-mountable device according to claim 1 , wherein the reagent is ...

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Номер записи: 93

19-04-2018 дата публикации

SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR CONVERTING HEAT TO KINETIC ENERGY

Номер: US20180106242A1

Автор: ROBINSON Shawn

Принадлежит:

A system for converting heat to kinetic energy is disclosed. The system may include a heat source, bimetallic bands and wheels that may support the bimetallic bands. The bimetallic bands may be heated by the heat source and may rotate the wheels. The rotation of the wheels may then be used to convert the kinetic energy to power. 1. A system for converting heat to kinetic energy , the system comprising:a heat source;at least one bimetallic band; andat least one wheel configured with the at least one bimetallic band;wherein the heat source heats the at least one bimetallic band, and the at least one bimetallic band rotates the at least one wheel.2. The system of wherein the at least one bimetallic band is a continuous loop.3. The system of further comprising at least one gear shaft configured with the at least one wheel.4. The system of wherein the at least one wheel rotates the at least one gear shaft claim 3 , and the at least one gear shaft rotates at least one power generating device that converts the rotations to power.5. The system of wherein the heat source is a container of radioactive waste material.6. The system of wherein the at least one bimetallic band comes into physical contact with the container of radioactive waste material and is heated by conduction and convection.7. The system of wherein the at least one bimetallic band comes into close proximity to the container of radioactive waste material and is heated by convection.8. The system of further comprising a buffer plate configured with the container of radioactive waste material at the point of contact between the at least one bimetallic band and the container of radioactive waste material.9. A system for converting heat to kinetic energy claim 6 , the system comprising:a heat source;at least one bimetallic continuous loop;at least one wheel configured with the at least one bimetallic continuous loop; andat least one gear shaft configured with the at least one wheel;wherein the heat source heats ...

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Номер записи: 94

30-04-2015 дата публикации

THERMAL ACTUATOR

Номер: US20150113975A1

Автор: Ambrosek James, Gettamaneni Kumaresh, Polley Nolan, Riley Michael B., Way R.J.

Принадлежит:

Disclosed is a thermal actuator that utilizes the dimensional change of a phase change media hermetically sealed within a shell. This thermal actuator may be utilized in a variety of environments where electric thermostatic actuators are impossible or impractical. 1. A thermal actuator comprising: an upper endplate orthogonal to an axial orientation;', 'a lower endplate orthogonal to an axial orientation, approximately parallel to, and offset by, a distance from said upper endplate;', 'at least one flexible support wall that is disposed in a circumferential orientation to engage said upper endplate and said lower endplate, thereby forming said sealed confine; and,, 'a sealed volumetric confine comprisinga phase change media disposed within said confine, said phase change media that responds to a temperature change to exert dimensional force in said axial orientation upon a change of state, thereby changing the distance between said upper endplate and said lower endplate.2. The thermal actuator of further comprising:a second support wall that is disposed in a circumferential orientation to engage said upper endplate and said lower endplate, thereby forming said sealed confine in the shape of a hollow cylinder.3. The thermal actuator of further comprising:a second support wall that is disposed in a circumferential orientation to engage said upper endplate and said lower endplate, thereby forming said sealed confine in the shape of a capped hollow cylinder.4. The thermal actuator of wherein said sealed volumetric confine is a hollow cylinder.5. The thermal actuator of wherein said sealed volumetric confine is a capped hollow cylinder.6. The thermal actuator of wherein said flexible support wall is located outside of said second support wall.7. The thermal actuator of wherein said flexible support wall is located inside of said second support wall.8. The thermal actuator of wherein said second support wall is flexible.9. The thermal actuator of wherein said phase change ...

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Номер записи: 95

30-04-2015 дата публикации

SYSTEM FOR CONVERSING THERMAL ENERGY INTO ELECTRICAL ENERGY

Номер: US20150115769A1

Автор: Coronel Philippe, MONFRAY Stéphane, Savelli Guillaume, Skotnicki Thomas

Принадлежит:

An assembly converting thermal energy into electrical energy including: at least one temperature sensitive bimetallic strip arranged in a space delimited by a hot source and a cold source facing each other, the bimetallic strip extending along a longitudinal axis; at least one suspended element fixed in movement to the sensitive element and extending laterally from the sensitive element and including a free end; and at least one piezoelectric element suspended from a part fixed relative to the sensitive element and vibrated by the suspended element such that it is vibrated when the bimetallic strip changes configuration and the suspended element comes into contact with the piezoelectric element, the piezoelectric element being located outside the space defined between the bimetallic strip and the hot source and outside the space between the bimetallic strip and the cold source. 112-. (canceled)13. A system for converting thermal energy into electrical energy , comprising:at least one temperature sensitive element configured to be placed in a space delimited by a hot source and a cold source facing each other, the sensitive element extending along a longitudinal axis;at least one suspended element integral in motion with the sensitive element and extending laterally from the sensitive element and including a free end; andat least one suspended piezoelectric element, the piezoelectric element being arranged relative to the suspended element such that it is vibrated when the sensitive element changes configuration, the piezoelectric element configured to be located outside a space defined between the sensitive element and the hot source and outside a space between the sensitive element and the cold source, when the piezoelectric element is suspended from a part fixed relative to the sensitive element and is vibrated by the suspended element.14. A conversion system according to claim 13 , wherein the sensitive element is in contact with either the hot source or the cold ...

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Номер записи: 96

27-04-2017 дата публикации

ACCOMMODATION STIMULATION AND RECORDING DEVICE

Номер: US20170113043A1

Автор: GLASSER Adrian

Принадлежит:

Embodiments described herein generally relate to devices and methods for stimulation or recording of accommodation of an eye. Accommodation of an eye naturally occurs through contraction of the ciliary muscle. Embodiments described herein can deliver electrostimulation to the ciliary muscle through a pair of electrodes which deliver power over an area of the sclera which is both positioned above and over an area which is substantially equivalent to the surface area of the ciliary muscle. In further embodiments, electrical impulses produced by the ciliary muscle can be received by one or more electrodes positioned proximate the ciliary muscle. Thus, by embodiments described herein, accommodation of the eye can be reproducibly achieved by external stimulation of the ciliary muscle or measured based on electrical impulses generated by or in conjunction with the ciliary muscle. 1. An electrostimulation device , comprising:a device body with a circular shape and an outer circumference, the device body comprising a posterior surface and an anterior surface surrounding an aperture formed in the device body between the anterior surface and the posterior surface, the posterior surface being shaped to fit an eye;an inner ring electrode comprising an electrically-conductive material and formed on the posterior surface;an outer ring electrode comprising an electrically-conductive material and formed on the posterior surface; andan electrical stimulation source in electrical connection with the inner ring electrode and the outer ring electrode.2. The electrostimulation device of claim 1 , wherein the electrically conductive material comprises a biocompatible conductive material.3. The electrostimulation device of claim 1 , wherein the device body is composed of a non-conductive material.4. The electrostimulation device of claim 1 , wherein the electrical stimulation source comprises a battery formed on or in the device body.5. The electrostimulation device of claim 1 , further ...

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Номер записи: 97

13-05-2021 дата публикации

Combined stimulator and bipolar electrode assembly for mouse electroretinography (erg)

Номер: US20210137442A1

Автор: Bruce Doran, Marc Chabot

Принадлежит: Diagnosys LLC

Apparatus for evoking and sensing ophthalmic physiological signals in an eye, the apparatus comprising: an elongated tubular light pipe having a longitudinal axis, a distal end and a proximal end, the distal end terminating in a spheroid recess; an active electrode having a distal end and a proximal end, the active electrode being mounted to the elongated tubular light pipe and extending proximally along the elongated tubular light pipe so that the distal end of the active electrode terminates at the spheroid recess at the distal end of the elongated tubular light pipe; and a reference electrode having a distal end and a proximal end, the reference electrode being mounted to the elongated tubular light pipe and extending proximally along the elongated tubular light pipe so that the distal end of the reference electrode terminates at the spheroid recess at the distal end of the elongated tubular light pipe; wherein the distal end of the active electrode is located closer to the longitudinal axis of the elongated tubular light pipe than the distal end of the reference electrode.

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Номер записи: 98

18-04-2019 дата публикации

SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR MEASURING CILIARY MUSCLE ACTIVITY

Номер: US20190110888A1

Автор: CAMPIN JOHN, LIEDEL KEVIN, Pettit George Hunter

Принадлежит:

Systems and methods for non-invasively assessing ciliary muscle accommodative potential in phakic eyes may include receiving a plurality of signals generated by a plurality of bipolar electrodes during a ciliary muscle assessment procedure, each of the plurality of signals indicating an electrical field associated with a patient's ciliary muscle, and analyzing the signals to evaluate the patient's ciliary muscle accommodative potential. 1. A method , comprising:receiving a plurality of signals generated by a plurality of bipolar electrodes during a ciliary muscle assessment procedure, each of the plurality of signals indicating an electrical field associated with a patient's ciliary muscle; andanalyzing the signals to evaluate the patient's ciliary muscle accommodative potential.2. The method of claim 1 , further comprising:providing a contact lens to be applied to a patient's eye, the contact lens comprising the plurality of bipolar electrodes; andwherein at least one of the bipolar electrodes is aligned with a perimeter of the patient's ciliary muscle when applied to the patient's eye.3. The method of claim 2 , wherein analyzing the signals to evaluate the patient's ciliary muscle accommodative potential comprises:identifying a subset of the signals corresponding to the at least one of the bipolar electrodes aligned with the perimeter of the patient's ciliary muscle;calculating a value based on the identified subset of signals; andevaluating the patient's ciliary muscle accommodative potential based on the calculated value.4. The method of claim 3 , wherein calculating a value based on the identified subset of signals comprises calculating a sum of the identified subset of signals.5. The method of claim 4 , wherein evaluating the patient's ciliary muscle accommodative potential based on the calculated value comprises comparing the calculated sum of the identified subset of signals to a predetermined value.6. The method of claim 1 , wherein the ciliary muscle ...

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Номер записи: 99

18-04-2019 дата публикации

SOFT MATERIAL, METHOD FOR ELECTROSTATICALLY INDUCING DEFORMATION THEREIN, AND SOFT ROBOT

Номер: US20190112433A1

Автор: CHIEN HSIU-WEN

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A soft material comprises a film and a gel system covered by the film. The film is made of polydimethylsiloxane, polytetrafluoroethylene, polymethyl methacrylate, polyxylene, polystyrene, rubber or nylon. The gel system comprises a gel and saline solution. The gel is a polymer network structure, and the saline solution is infilled in interspaces of the polymer network structure. The film is electrostatically neutral, and the soft material has an original electrostatic equilibrium state. When the original electrostatic equilibrium state is broken by electrostatic induction (such as being rubbed by a human hand), the gel expands or shrinks. The disclosure also provides a method for auto-deforming the soft material and a soft robot using the soft material. 1. A soft material comprising:a film made of polydimethylsiloxane, polytetrafluoroethylene, polymethyl methacrylate, polyxylene, polystyrene, rubber or nylon; anda gel system covered by the film;wherein the gel system comprises a gel and saline solution, the gel is a polymer network structure, the saline solution is infilled in interspaces of the polymer network structure, the film is neutrally charged and the soft material has an original electrostatic equilibrium state, when the original electrostatic equilibrium state is broken, the gel expands or shrinks.2. The soft material of claim 1 , wherein the film has a thickness of about 100 nm to about 0.2 mm.3. The soft material of claim 1 , wherein the polyanionic gel is a polymer network structure comprising carboxylic groups claim 1 , and the gel has an acidity coefficient PKa of about 3 to about 4.4. The soft material of claim 1 , wherein the polycationic gel is a polymer network structure comprising amino groups claim 1 , and the gel has an acidity coefficient PKa of about 3 to about 4.5. A method for auto-deforming the soft material comprising: a film made of polydimethylsiloxane, polytetrafluoroethylene, polymethyl methacrylate, polyxylene, polystyrene, rubber or ...

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Номер записи: 100

13-05-2021 дата публикации

GEOTHERMAL ENERGY SYSTEM AND METHOD OF PRODUCING POWER USING SAME

Номер: US20210140413A1

Автор: Jafari Hassan, ZHOU Kang

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A geothermal energy system utilizes supercritical CO2 turbine and a radial outflow reaction turbine, a Catherine Wheel having wheel arms, that spins around an axle to produce power. A fin portion extends from the radial portion at an offset angle, to an exhaust end. A first working fluid, such as supercritical carbon dioxide flows through an arm conduit within the wheel arm and a second working fluid, such as a hydrocarbon mixes with the first working fluid and both flow through a turbine. The turbine may be configured within the wheel arm conduit or mounted prior to the Catherine Wheel or any other radial outflow reaction turbine, or variable phase turbines available, and it turns as the combined working fluids expand and vaporize. The second working fluid may be condensed and recirculated while the first working fluid is expelled back into a geothermal reservoir. 1. A geothermal energy system comprising: [ a radial portion', 'a fin portion,, 'i) a plurality of wheel arms configured around an axle, wherein each of the plurality of wheel arms comprises, an arm conduit extending within the wheel arm to said exhaust end;', 'a turbine configured within the arm conduit;, 'wherein the radial portion extends radially out from an axle end and wherein the fin portion extends from the radial portion at an offset angle to an exhaust end'}, 'wherein a first working fluid flows through the arm conduit and into said turbine;', 'wherein a second working fluid is introduced into said turbine, and wherein the first working fluid and second working fluid are mixed and are vaporized within the turbine to form a vaporized working fluid that is expelled from the exhaust end of the wheel arm to propel the wheel arm and the Catherine wheel about the axle;', 'ii) wherein the first working fluid heats the second working fluid;, 'a) a Catherine Wheel that spins around an axle and comprisingb) an electrical power generator coupled with the Catherine Wheel that produces electrical power when ...

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Номер записи: 101