Abstract:
A device for measuring externally applied loads on a structural member, such as a support leg of an off-shore installation, comprises one or more flexible fluid-filled cells constrained between the surface of the structural member and a casing capable of transmitting externally applied loads to the structural member through the fluid within the cell(s), the loads applied to the member being derived by monitoring the fluid pressure within the cell(s). Preferably the cell(s) and casing are comprised in a sleeve-like assembly removably mounted upon the structural member and retained in position by friction.
Abstract:
A hydrostatic stress gage including a sphere of incompressible fluid having positioned inside a drum like structure containing a pair of interconnected flat spiral coils forming a self-resonant tuned circuit, a change in pressure on the sphere will cause a variation in distance between the coils whereby changing the resonant frequency, when measured by an appropriate device stress may be measured.
Abstract:
A device for transducing a force into a pneumatic signal comprises an air obstructing body composed of a rigid ball and supporting disc against which a force to be transduced is applied, and an air nozzle including an opening facing the rigid ball, the air nozzle being connected to a compressed air supply unit. Compressed air from the opening of the air nozzle flows away along the surface of the rigid ball. As a result the above, the air obstructing body moves upward or downward by the difference between a compressed air force acting upon the rigid ball compressed and the applied force to be transduced. When both forces balance, the air obstructing body settles in an equilibrium position and at that time, back air pressure of the nozzle has a relationship which is proportional to the applied force to be transduced. Back air pressure is measured by an air pressure measuring instrument connected to the air nozzle as a pneumatic signal.
Abstract:
A weighing valve mounted on a vehicle to produce a fluid having a pressure proportional to the load of the vehicle is activated by a force translating device which produces a proportionate force to the valve to thereby generate fluid flow changes of pressure signalling the loading on the vehicle. The force translating device has a differential piston with a plunger of smaller diameter for actuating the valve communicating with a plunger of larger diameter responsive to the load. The plunger and piston are interconnected through a deformable, incompressible medium such as silicone rubber into which both the end and sides of the smaller diameter plunger are extended thereby dampening vibrations.
Abstract:
A visual force measuring device for use in conjunction with a swimming implement for holding a swimmer while exercising in the water. The device has a pre-tensioned bellows connected to a fluid conduit and to a rope train, or the like. When the rope train is moved by the swimmer, force registers in the bellows by displacing liquid therein which in turn changes the fluid level in the conduit. A marker set against a measuring rod floats on the fluid surface.
Abstract:
A hydraulic load cell of simplified construction has an upper lateral support structure for the piston which eliminates the need for clamping rings and bolts. The support structure comprises an upper bridge ring disposed between the cylinder and piston members and held by integral flanges on said members. The upper bridge ring, and the lower bridge ring where used, may each be provided with arcuate edges to improve cell accuracy. The cell may also be provided with a supplementary shield against contamination and a simplified loading head structure.