Abstract:
The difference in elevation between two closely spaced points on a surface is sensed by an instrument that is sequentially positioned at equally spaced locations along a measurement line to provide data from which a surface profile may be plotted. The instrument frame mounts a sensor having a sensitivity axis parallel to a contact line connecting pivot contact points at which the instrument engages the surface to provide a readout adjusted and calibrated to be in terms of vertical distance between the two contact points.
Abstract:
A pair of elongated, rigid electrical rods held by a frame in fixed parallel spaced relation to each other are connected to an ohmmeter circuit to measure linear resistance along one of the rods from a taut datum wire in contact with the rods. The other of the rods has a non-conductive pivot element at one end positioned in contact with a test surface at a point intersected by an axis parallel to said rods about which the frame is angularly displaced to bring the rods into gripping contact with the datum wire.
Abstract:
A sensor mounted on a frame measures inclination of a sensitivity axis above two contact points on a surface on which the frame is positioned. The signal output of the sensor is converted to digital elevation readings of opposite polarity displayed through windows on opposite sides of a handle through which the frame is rotated about alternate contact points into measurement positions along a measurement line marked on the surface.
Abstract:
A self-powered switching device using a prestressed flextensional electroactive member generates a signal for activation of a latching relay. The electroactive member has a piezoelectric element with a convex and a concave face that may be compressed to generate an electrical pulse. The flextensional electroactive member and associated signal generation circuitry can be hardwired directly to the latching relay or may be coupled to a transmitter for sending an RF signal to a receiver which actuates the latching relay.
Abstract:
A method for manufacturing high deformation piezoelectric actuators and sensors using a continuous tape manufacturing process is provided. The ceramic layer is dispensed between two metal/adhesive layers to form a composite tape and is tack welded together. Lengths of composite tape are heated and then cut into individual actuators. A special pattern punched in the tapes allows for ease of alignment of the layers of the actuators.
Abstract:
Vibrational energy is introduced into a portion of a liquid-solid work mixture at a natural resonant frequency of that portion of the mixture while that portion of the mixture is in a fluid or semi-fluid state. A vibrating apparatus imparts controlled vibrations either onto the surface or beneath the surface of the liquid-solid work mixture in sequential stages, the frequency of vibrations generally increasing with each subsequent stage, corresponding to an increase in the natural resonant frequency of the progressively-narrowing liquid portion at the top of the liquid-solid work mixture. A resonant frequency-indicative condition of the liquid portion of the work mixture adjacent the vibrator apparatus is sensed as the vibrator apparatus moves across the top surface of the liquid-solid mixture, and the output frequency of the vibrating apparatus is correspondingly adjusted in accordance with the sensed condition as the vibrator apparatus travels. The controlled vibrations drive the liquid component of the liquid-solid mixture upwardly out of the mixture, thereby advantageously expediting the rate of consolidation, stiffening, and/or drying of the lower (solid) portion of the mixture, and advantageously filtering, decanting, and/or otherwise isolating the constituent ingredients of the mixture.
Abstract:
A concrete joint in concrete slab structures in which the joint includes an insert that is retained in centered position in a slot or recess formed in the upper surface of a concrete slab generally in alignment with a crack or fracture line extending downwardly from the slot or recess formed in the concrete slab. The bottom of the slot or recess is provided with a seal of cementitious material which extends completely across the bottom of the slot or recess and fills the crack or fracture line with the lower edge of the insert being inserted partially into the cementitious seal which is in the form of a quick setting sand and cement mixture which has high compression strength and low tensile strength and which will adhere to concrete surfaces but will not adhere to the insert. The space above the bottom seal on each side of the insert is then filled with a filler of an epoxy or similar material which encapsulates the spring clips and fills the slot or recess on both sides of the insert.
Abstract:
A data processing system associated with a surface flatness measuring device, distinguishes between differential elevation signals respectively generated by an accelerometer type sensor while at rest and in motion. The readout of time-spaced data is thereby limited to those generated while the device is in steady state condition at rest in measuring positions, for collection of accurate data.
Abstract:
The invention provides a paddle shaft assembly for a mixing apparatus of the horizontal drum type wherein rotating mixing paddles contained within the horizontal drum can be removed for cleaning or replacement without disassembly of bearings, drive components or drum supporting structure. In particular, the drum is fully supported by mounting structure located externally of the drum, a quill shaft being disengageable from a drive shaft at one external end of the drum and removable from the drum through an opening at the other end of the drum to enable removal of the paddle shaft assembly without altering the drum structure in any way whatsoever.
Abstract:
A method of finishing concrete using a vibrating tool to consolidate a “dry shake” aggregate into the upper layer of the concrete. The use of the vibrating tool causes moisture within the concrete mass to migrate into the surface layer where the moisture may hydrate the aggregates in the dry shake mixture. The ability to cause upward migration of water in the concrete mass provides a larger window of finishability for the concrete. The vibrations also provide thorough consolidation of aggregates in the upper layer of the concrete mass helping to prevent delamination.