text:
Hypercholesterolemic patients demonstrate a submaximal oxygen transport rate, University of Minnesota researchers report in a study published in the
Henry Buchwald and his team analyzed blood samples from 100 patients and uncovered an inverse correlation between plasma cholesterol levels and oxygen transport rate — a measure of how efficiently oxygen can be moved out of red blood cells and into the tissues. "Doctors have noted that chest pain associated with coronary heart disease diminishes after cholesterol is lowered," said Buchwald. The team conclude that plasma cholesterol level is a controlling factor in erythrocyte membrane cholesterol content, which in turn regulates oxygen transport in and out of red blood cells, and thereby, tissue oxygen availability. Therefore, high plasma cholesterol levels lead to overly high amounts of cholesterol in the membranes of red cells, which hinders the movement of oxygen out of those cells and into tissues.
"The findings suggest it would be simpler, safer and far less expensive to test the oxygen transport rate in a small sample of the patient's blood instead of a cardiac stress test, which is sometimes invasive," said Buchwald. In addition to establishing the presence or absence of heart disease, measurement of the oxygen transport rate can also be important in evaluating other diseases, such as diabetes. The team also highlighted other potential applications of the measurement, such as in assessing nonpathologic conditions such as athletic potential or overall health.


text: I have the 1.4tfs 122ps S line Sportback: Pros: 1. Build Quality - Cabin is superb and everything is of top quality. Lovely weighted feel to everything in the car. 2 S Line Sports Suspension - Yes i have it! It's very low but the ride quality is still pretty damn good unless you're going over a particularly bumpy road. The best part is virtually no body roll in corners and you feel like your on rails. Very sure footed even in the uber heavy rain today! The steering is very weighted and responsive (I'll post pics when flickr app decides to work on my phone or i can be bothered to connect it my pc ) 3. SD Sat Nav - Performs admirably and has found a lot of newer roads in my area. The extra display on the DIS is outstanding and really keeps you on track. 4. MMI and Audi Sound System - I've had £2k Focal Utopia systems with JL Audio w7 subs in the past the Audi S S is in my opinion better. True audiophile quality for £250! I'm thinking as it's tailored to the vehicle. Well done Audi! 5. Overall look of the car - A real head turner and everything about it reeks good design and quality. 6. Power of the new 1.4tfsi 122ps engine - My Partner has a 1.4tfsi 122ps a1 yet this thumps it in straight line. Seems overly powerful and you have to be careful with your speed. On a dual carriageway you regularly get near the 100mph mark without even realising it. In 30 zones your suddenly at 50mph, causing me to slow right back down. Very smooth power delivery even in efficiency. Rapid in dynamic. 7. Space - Had four adults in the car and everyone had plenty of space. I'm 6ft 4in and makes a change from people being cramped behind me. Lots of leg room and it's a very wide cabin. 8. Xenons and drls - Look cool as **** and turns many heads. Combined with the comfort pack it give very clear lighting in all conditions. Love the Led bulbs on the number plate, in the boot and the led rear lights and brake lights. Everything is very bright. Cons: 1. No Reading lights in the front Cabin, non led centre lights, non led glove box, non led vanity mirrors, non led rear cabin lights - Ok so the leds maybe asking for bit much as i didn't get the interior lights pack but then why Led Boot lights? Also no reading lights in a car the quality of an A3 S Line (the top trim level i may add!)!!! What's going on Audi? I don't think I've owed a car without individual reading lights before and I've had cars since 1999. A minor bugbear but surely as everything else is led then the interior lights should be?! The interior lights pack should just be cup light rings, led footwell lights etc etc. Things i can live without but disappointed the rest of the lights aren't led. To be honest though this is the only con i can think of. I've done 220 miles and my mpg is 36 - Not great but I've been in a lot of traffic and a lot of short journeys so i hope for better soon. Overall it's everything i thought it would be and more. I love it already and just can't wait to get back in each and everytime.

subset: commoncrawl


text:
Artist description:
Trying out a more simple anime style PLEASE COMMENT =3
Java Draw Created Dec 21, 2012 640 x 460px Unless noted Copyright 2012 nishea.
We encourage you to submit a comment and let the artist know what you think of this drawing. Please log in or join to post a comment.
Post a comment
nice drawing!
interesting profile, i like her green eye n short brown hair :) simple is nice sometimes, n looks good here :3


text:
(IBList user synopsis):
Lancelot Stebbins, a scientist who is frustrated by lack of recognition and by his wifes incompetence, dreams of being able to read his own obituary. When he discovers a form of time travel, it promises him both fulfillment of his dream and lasting fame if his wife doesnt bungle it.
Collected in:
Original title: Obituary
Original languages:
Genre: Fiction→ Science Fiction→ World Versions→ Time Travel
This work is a subwork of the following works : Asimov's Mysteries (1968) [Collection] Author: Isaac Asimov


text:
German supermodel Heidi Klum and singer Seal are engaged to be married. "We affianced on a glacier in Whistler, a ski resort town in British Columbia. We reached this beautiful place by helicopter one day before Christmas Eve. It was a unique experience," said a posting on Klum's Web site.
Print-ready version
Send to a friend
Subscribe to the Banner-Herald
E-mail the Editor
Discuss in Forums
Klum, 31, and Seal, 41, started dating last year, after her breakup with Flavio Briatore, who is the father of her daughter, Leni.
Klum is a Victoria's Secret model and has appeared in Sports Illustrated magazine's swimsuit issue. Seal's "Love's Divine" is nominated for a Grammy Award in the male pop vocal competition.
© 2017. All Rights Reserved. | Contact Us


text:
Here at Review Centre we work hard to make sure we are the best place on the internet for honest, unbiased consumer reviews - we are grateful for your help in keeping us that way!
Written on: 17/07/2012
(2 reviews written)
excellent tuneage from my youth. Some real classics on here and takes you back to the school days. Recommend for all retro lovers


text:
The new Yamaha YFZ450R is big news for the sport ATV market. Designed for motocross dominance, the new Yammie brings competition to the stock MX quads.
Yamaha claims the new YFZ450R is a multi-use quad, but this all-new ATV is aimed at gunning down the Suzuki LT-R450 and taking over the motocross track. The 450cc Sport ATV market is relatively new, and many of these high-performance 4-wheelers make sacrifices on both ends of the spectrum in order to provide service on the track and trails. Suzuki has long ruled the MX roost with its fuel-injected QuadRacer, but Yamaha has had enough and used its existing YFZ450 as a base model for this exciting new R model.
We completed the 2009 YFZ450R First Ride test at the Hungry Valley SVRA and LA County Raceway with Allen Knowles from CT Racing handling the rider impressions. During that time, it was apparent that the new Mikuni fuel-injection system, new crankshaft, engine cases, cylinder, head and cam profile do much for altering the motor characteristics. The YFZ450R has a healthy punch down low and thus a wider delivery than the standard Yammie 450. Power application from the 449cc motor is suitable for multi-use, but the handling and ergonomics really point to this bike's specialty.
The front end has been widened almost three inches over the YFZ and by doing so reaches close to the 50-inch mark, the magical MX number. Oversized Kayaba front shocks (44mm) have greater oil capacity for increased damping and greater resistance to fade during long, hard rides. Things are different out back as well with the 46mm KYB shock and new linkage system attaching the 15mm-longer aluminum swingarm. A cast aluminum chassis is assembled with bolts rather than welds, but uses a steel lower rail to cradle the engine.
Knowles found that the 450R is capable of trail use, but, as you would expect, is generally a little wide and stiff. Ample adjustability helps improve the ride, but the CT Racing owner sees the best non-MX future for this machine on the sand dunes. Sand riders will appreciate the bike's willingness to slide the rear end and additional stability during high speeds and jumping.
New bodywork allows for extra movement and encourages aggressive riding. The ProTaper handlebars offer four different settings and the thumb throttle has been revised to give riders a more natural interface with the machine. The seat is slim toward the front and widens into a semi "T" shape at the rear. Riders can easily hang off over the redone, quick-release bodywork. The rear plastic can be removed with only four bolts, and heavy wear areas have been reinforced to last longer.
Our tester was impressed with Yamaha's new YFZ450R. Check out the two-part video review on the right from our counterparts at ATV On Demand, where another test rider claims it could be "the best ATV ever made." Make sure to watch both videos and judge for yourself.


text:
Honda Civic EX-L
You're going to love the 2010 Honda Civic. This 2 door, 5 passenger coupe just recently passed the 10,000 mile mark! Honda made sure to keep road-handling and sportiness at the top of it's priority list. It features an automatic transmission, front-wheel drive, and a 1.8 liter 4 cylinder engine. Honda prioritized fit and finish as evidenced by: leather upholstery, a tachometer, air conditioning, telescoping steering wheel, remote keyless entry, cruise control, and power windows. For drivers who enjoy the natural environment, a power moon roof allows an infusion of fresh air. Honda also prioritized safety and security with features such as: dual front impact airbags with occupant sensing airbag, head curtain airbags, brake assist, anti-whiplash front head restraints, a security system, and 4 wheel disc brakes with ABS. Various mechanical systems are monitored by electronic stability control, keeping you on your intended path. A Carfax history report provides you peace of mind by detailing information related to past owners and service records. We pride ourselves in consistently exceeding our customer's expectations. Please don't hesitate to give us a call.


text:
Nathan Balli has been chosen as the first winner of Mountain Dew's Green Label Studios: Open Call contest.
Mountain Dew, a beverage from PepsiCo, announced the launch of "Green Label Studios: Open Call," a nationwide content project calling on creators to submit their best work for the chance to win a $250,000 production grant to create content for Green-Label.com — a hub created by Mountain Dew and Complex Media that covers the voices and stories of youth culture.
Fans of Mountain Dew Kickstart will now have two new ways to invigorate their nights thanks to Mountain Dew Kickstart Black Cherry and Mountain Dew Kickstart Limeade, which debut in retail stores nationwide today.


text:
What Our Property Report Checks For
- Legal Ownership
- Pre-foreclosure
- Foreclosure
- City/County Taxes
- State/Federal Taxes
- HOA Liens (if applicable)
- Mechanics Liens
- City/County Liens
Don't wake up to a surprise knock on your front door in the middle of the night by the Sheriff or Bank Trustee.Read More
A form of rental fraud is growing at an alarming rate. Foreclosed homes are being rented out to multiple tenants and the phony landlord or management company is keeping their deposits.Read More
DepositShield's Property Background check will give you piece of mind when sending your child off to college. The focus has always been put on student and parents for background checks. Don't let an unscrupulous landlord take advantage of your college student's inexperience. Know what kind of property they are getting into before they move in.Learn How It Works
However, frequently there is no form of due diligence performed in a rental transaction. Traditionally, the Escrow process has taken on the mantle of protecting all parties involved in a mortgage transaction. What can an agent do in a rental transaction to help protect the buyer from fraud and/or bad debt that has been attached to their property?Learn How It Works


text:
Totally Kids meal program menus for week of Aug. 5
August 2, 2013
■ Monday
Breakfast: oatmeal, peaches, milk
Lunch: cheeseburger, Tater Tots, peaches, milk
■ Tuesday
Breakfast: pancakes, strawberries, milk
Lunch: turkey sandwich, carrots with ranch, grapes, milk
Recommended Stories For You
■ Wednesday
Breakfast: waffles, cantaloupe, milk
Lunch: chicken nuggets, Tater Tots, mixed fruit, bread sticks, milk
■ Thursday
Breakfast: muffins, plums, milk
Lunch: cheese or pepperoni pizza, cantaloupe, green beans, milk
■ Friday
Breakfast: bagels with cream cheese, strawberries, milk
Lunch: baked beans and hot dogs, cornbread, broccoli, peaches, milk
Totally Kids sponsors a free summer food program for children ages 1 to 18 through the summer at Hayden Valley Elementary School. Breakfast is served from 8:30 to 9 a.m., and lunch is served from 11:45 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. Adults can eat breakfast for $2 and lunch for $3.50.
The program is funded through Hunger Free Colorado. For more information, call Carolyn at 970-846-9083.


text:
All public logs
Combined display of all available logs of FirebugWiki. You can narrow down the view by selecting a log type, the username (case-sensitive), or the affected page (also case-sensitive).
- 04:54, 17 January 2013 Sebastianz (Talk | contribs) moved page Firebug Roadmap 1.10 to Firebug 1.10 Roadmap (It's not the version of the roadmap but of Firebug. :-))
- 22:36, 20 August 2012 Honza (Talk | contribs) automatically marked revision 7360 of page Firebug Roadmap 1.10 patrolled


text:
ANC leadership under scrutiny at M&G debate
"Funny how the ANC would snub this debate because of my presence. They could not ascend to power in 1994 without the UDM (United Democratic Movement). Small minds – you don't have to deal with them," said UDM president Bantu Holomisa.
This was Holomisa's response to the ANC declining to attend a Critical Thinking Forum debate titled "What kind of leadership should come out of Mangaung", hosted by the Mail & Guardian and Konrad Adenauer Stiftung on Tuesday.
Holomisa was expelled from the ANC for ill-discipline and for bringing the party into disrepute, by a unanimous decision of the national executive committee (NEC) in September 1996. Holomisa testified at the Truth and Reconciliation Commission without consulting the ANC body that Stella Sigcau received a bribe of R50 000 from hotel magnate Sol Kerzner during her time as cabinet minister in the former Transkei prime minister George Mantanzima's Cabinet. The Alexander Commission was set up to investigate the matter but accepted Sigcau's explanation and felt that no steps should be taken against her.
The panel, moderated by SAfm presenter Xoliswa Gwala, included political analyst Eusebius McKaiser, SACP's second deputy secretary general Solly Mapaila and Holomisa.
McKaiser opened the discussion saying the country should be looking at what it wants, instead of what it thinks will happen. He pointed out that the "massive systematic organisational challenges" within the ANC will not disappear by assuming that someone who leads the country next will get rid of those challenges. He offered four qualities necessary in a leadership.
"Firstly we need a responsive leadership, secondly a leader who understands the difference between ethical capacity and legal standards, thirdly someone who has technocratic ability and someone who is an inspirational visionary".
McKaiser said the country needs a leadership who is ethically responsible, and "not a leadership who is just trying to stay out of prison".
Can the ANC provide an ethical leader?
Holomisa said none of the other people who are assumed to take the seat as the next leader have spoken out about what they would do differently to President Jacob Zuma and how they would fix the problems that South Africa is facing.
"Don't expect any change to come out of a quagmire. No one in the ANC, not Tokyo, not Kgalema [Motlanthe] has come out to the public to say what they want to do so why do we even debate this issue of leadership. No one can turn this situation around. There is too much corruption and a lack of discipline and accountability. What we need to do is look at reviewing our electoral system where the public can elect its own Parliament".
Holomisa pointed out that the ANC suffers from arrogance, believing that they were the only ones in this country who "brought apartheid to its knees. Other played a role in that too".
McKaiser agreed with a different approach to how leaders are selected saying, "Two of the possible leaders should go to the podium and tell us why we should elect them. I don't think that South Africa is this perpetual teenager incapable of doing that".
End of the road for the ANC?
Mapaila objected to the notion that the ANC is a "quagmire", saying that the ANC has provided a successful leadership and government despite some on-going challenges.
"There is no doubt that the ANC has crafted the best vision for this country, anchoring our society on a collective mindset. Discipline is not an issue that has just sprung out now. The ANC thought that the actions of Bantu were ill-disciplined but that does not mean that that strips him of his credentials he has with the contribution he made to the movement. This country has experienced the success of our liberation. There isn't a single community in this country that has not experienced delivery under the ANC," he said.
An audience member, who did not reveal his name, suggested that opposition parties unite as one political party to challenge the ANC, saying it is not possible for the ANC to fix society's issues.
In response Holomisa said: "Opposition parties have been working together for the past two years on a number of issues. If we do form one party, we must open that option to the public and to the ANC".
McKaiser said that the first thing that must be done when referring to the ANC is to stop calling them a "movement". "The problem with the ANC is that it still exists in the mould of a liberation movement, it needs to rethink the reason why it exists. Apartheid was a monster from which people needed to be liberated, but that monster is long gone. What is the ANC still liberating us from?"
A vote of no confidence for the ANC came across strongly at the forum, with changes within the party as the main reason why selecting a new leader has become such a complex issue.
Concluding the debate, Mapaila said he believed that Zuma and Motlanthe will retain their current positions. Holomisa wished the alliance well with its elective conference in Mangaung in December, advising them on the following: "When you select the leader, keep in mind that he must firstly respect the decisions of the courts, be committed to review the electoral system and please avoid corruption".


text:
Use the tools below to refine your search by only displaying reviews with a certain number of star ratings or to only show reviews from a certain time period. Eg click on '1 star' to just display the reviews we have which received a 1 star rating click or 'Within the last month' to display just reviews posted over the last month.
Written on: 06/11/2014 by gix374 (7 reviews written)
probably the worst chinese "restaurant" i've ever been to. horrible undercooked greasy food. the staff weren't rude, they just weren't to be seen anywhere. i know its a buffet but you expect a bit of interaction and help from staff. wont be going back… Read Full Review
Written on: 06/11/2014 by gix374 (7 reviews written)
probably the worst chinese "restaurant" i've ever been to. horrible undercooked greasy food. the staff weren't rude, they just weren't to be seen anywhere. i know its a buffet but you expect a bit of interaction and help from staff. wont be going back… Read Full Review
Written on: 14/07/2013 by Truly23 (1 review written)
Seriously dirty'srestaurant with bad service and will never return for it!… Read Full Review
Written on: 28/03/2013 by Rocco46 (2 reviews written)
Having seen this place go from a really great restaurant in the eighties to the sorry state it's in now makes me feel I must review. We had the bad luck to end up here only under protest as we knew its recent track record but our family weren't listening to our reports of bad food and snotty management etc. safe to say after ten mins of entering the place the penny dropped and they could see why the place is now known as the WORST Chinese in the south east . Dreadfull cold buffet with cold… Read Full Review
Written on: 19/03/2013 by Lewis1993 (1 review written)
We have ordered from here for ten months and must have spent well over £1,500 in that time. We never had any problems with the delivery driver or the lady that takes our order. The other night we made our usual delivery and the lady on the telephone double checked our order. The usual delivery guy turned up and we paid him and went to eat our meal. As we opened the bag we had 1 rice missing, 1 curry missing and a portion of 4 (Not 8) chicken balls. Thinking it was no big deal we rang them and… Read Full Review
Written on: 11/09/2012 by rhe61389ne (4 reviews written)
The place is ok, the food is nice.It is not like it is really grat, but it is fine… Read Full Review
Written on: 10/07/2012
I recently ordered from here, the food was brilliant as well as the service. Could not have asked for better, would surely recommend to anyone within the Maidstone area… Read Full Review
Written on: 29/06/2012 by timc7a4fei (3 reviews written)
REally had the same experince as described as in the review before mine. Oh, God, it hurt!… Read Full Review
Written on: 03/04/2012 by smith01 (1 review written)
This is the 2nd time I have eaten an manderine chef, both times food was cold and awful.. I also suffered the next day from very bad stomach.. Never would I go there again!… Read Full Review
Written on: 18/07/2011 by LPSMITH (1 review written)
attended this place for lunch and they insisted on payment upfront,we paid, reluctently,then the buffet was hardly enough to feed a child,after asking where the food was the staff said it will be out soon,two trays appeared 5 minutes later with a handful of inedible,low quality,tasteless rubbish.They couldn't of cared less.Disgrace!!… Read Full Review
Written on: 15/04/2011 by orangehulk (1 review written)
Didnt eat in the resturant i ordered Take Away,but wont ever do it again due to the service,i ordered my food for 6 people and was happy with price.But it took for ages over an hour and half and still no food.I rang to find out what was going on for to have a member of staff be very abrupt and no hint of an aplology.She was was quite happy to hear me cancel my order like it was nothing to her.I wont ever try to use this takeaway if it was the last chinese avaiable in town.Shocking service no… Read Full Review
Written on: 31/10/2010
I tried to order delivery, but a very bad mannered woman picked up and gave me attitudes that made me hang up. Is this how people do business?
Seriously wouldnt recommend anyone to order takeaway there… Read Full Review
Written on: 26/12/2007
The Mandarin Chef in Maidstone offers fantastic food! I love it!!… Read Full Review
As rated by our community of reviewers
" Gluten free " Read More
Written by MrPdoff
" Spur of the moment night away " Read More
" Always a great place to come eat out when you are with a group of f... " Read More
Written by cindycrawford12
" I had a very nice experience at this restaurant " Read More
Written by bettyhobbs
" Awful place, cheap and disgusting " Read More
Written by gix374


text:
Nov. 26 (UPI) -- An Italian prosecutor called for Amanda Knox to receive a 30-year sentence for the 2007 murder of British exchange student Meredith Kercher during Knox's retrial Tuesday.
Alessandro Crini also called for a 26-year sentence for Knox's former boyfriend, Raffaele Sollecito, while speaking at an appeals court in Florence where the retrial has been taking place since September 30.
Both Knox and Sollecito were convicted for Kercher's murder in 2009, but their convictions were overturned in 2011 over a "lack of evidence." Last year, the Italian Supreme Court decided to retry the case claiming the jury that acquitted them did not consider all the evidence.
The court said it still needed answers from several discrepancies in the testimony from the trial that acquitted the suspects.
In his second day of closing arguments, Crini recapped the evidence against both Knox and Sollecito highlighting Knox's strange behavior -- kissing Sollecito outside of the crime scene, doing cart wheels and yoga poses while waiting to be interrogated at the police station -- and asked for 26-year jail sentences for both. He also asked for an additional four years to be added to Knox's sentence for slander.
That charge is related to Patrick Lumumba, a former employer of Knox's who spent several weeks in jail after she falsely accused him of Kercher's murder. While she later claimed that she only named him after being interrogated for hours without water or sleep, Lumumba won a defamation suit against the Seattle native.
Both suspects have maintained their innocence throughout the retrial.
Knox, who returned home to Seattle after her acquittal, has not been in court for the retrial. If found guilty, is it unlikely that the U.S. would extradite Knox given the country's double jeopardy laws, which prevent suspects from being tried twice for the same crime.
A third man, Rudy Guede, was also convicted for the slaying of Kercher in a separate proceeding and was sentenced to 16 years in prison.


text:
Independent report
The Portas review: the future of our high streets
- From:
- Department for Business, Innovation & Skills and Department for Communities and Local Government
- Part of:
- High streets and town centres and Business enterprise
- Published:
- 13 December 2011
Report from the independent review of high streets and town centres by Mary Portas.
The Portas Review: an independent review into the future of our high streets
Ref: 11/1434 PDF, 1.97MB, 55 pages
This file may not be suitable for users of assistive technology. Request an accessible format.
If you use assistive technology (such as a screen reader) and need a version of this document in a more accessible format, please email email@example.com. Please tell us what format you need. It will help us if you say what assistive technology you use.
This report sets out Mary Portas' view on what has led to the decline of our high streets. It:
- describes her vision for the future to breathe economic and community life back into our high streets and town centres
- makes recommendations on how to deliver that vision by getting town centres to run like businesses and getting the basics right to allow businesses to flourish
Document information
Published: 13 December 2011


text:
|Numéro de publication
|Type de publication
|Numéro de demande
|Date de publication
|17 juin 2003
|Date de dépôt
|9 sept. 1999
|Date de priorité
|9 sept. 1999
|État de paiement des frais
|Numéro de publication
|Edwin Gerard Haas, Robert Charles Schwarz, John M. Papazian
|Cessionnaire d'origine
|Northrop Grumman Corporation
|Exporter la citation
|BiBTeX, EndNote, RefMan
|Citations de brevets (22), Référencé par (41), Classifications (13), Événements juridiques (5)
|Liens externes: USPTO, Cession USPTO, Espacenet
1. Field of the Invention
The present invention relates generally to forming of honeycomb core and, more specifically, to computer-controlled tooling capable of providing an adjustable three dimensional surface for forming honeycomb core articles with the capability of applying or directing heated air or gas through the honeycomb core cells as well as providing rapid contour changes. The mechanism of the invention is comprised of a plurality of assembled modules which act in concert with one another to effect the work operation.
2. Description of the Prior Art
Forming of honeycomb core is generally limited to the aerospace industry where a large number of honeycomb core details are used to build contoured, strong, highly weight-efficient structures. In the aerospace industry, each aircraft, or spacecraft, requires many pieces of formed honeycomb core, and the number of formed details is large relative to the amount of planes produced for a given year. A process that can quickly and easily adapt to produce small quantities each of many different details therefore is well-suited to the aerospace industry. Similarly, other aerospace-related components which utilize hot-forming techniques or presses are candidates for the apparatus and method described herein. Within the aerospace industry, matched-die forming tools may be used to fabricate sheet metal and thermoplastic parts. Of the two, thermoplastic sheets can be contour-formed using the described invention if the forming temperatures are within the thermal limit of the tools' design. Thin gage aluminum sheet metal details could also be formed using this process, although the quality of the resulting parts may not be as high as with present processes.
Other industries in addition to the aerospace industry that need to hold, form, or inspect contoured components can benefit from the described discrete modular approach as well. The modular approach can also be used to translate a series of sensors for rapidly digitizing the surface(s) of a contoured part or component by replacing the pin tips with tips specially-configured to hold sensors or other devices. The digitized data can be directly stored in computer memory for a three-dimensional surface description which can be used by a computer-graphic or numerical control software application. Modular construction adds the ability to isolate and rapidly replace malfunctioning elements by replacing entire modules with spare, off-the-shelf modules. Further repairs can then be implemented off-line. This minimizes down time, and replacement cost. The ability to reconfigure an entire assembly of modules by adding or subtracting modules gives a high degree of versatility from which other forming processes might also benefit.
A pair of patents can be said to be generally representative of the present state of the art of forming complex metal shapes. A first instance is U.S. Pat. No. 4,212,188 to Pinson which discloses a plurality of longitudinally and laterally spaced and opposed die members in a matrix array for engaging and forming a sheet metal article interposed between them. Another instance is U.S. Pat. No. 5,546,784 to Haas et al. which discloses a computer controlled self adjusting sheet metal forming die which can provide rapid contour changes and comprises a computer control device which sends appropriately timed signals to translate each contour element so that a three dimension surface is formed by a discrete matrix of individual pins which press the sheet metal against a forming surface. These inventions, however, are directed to the forming of sheet metal, and do not provide for self-heating. In order to form honeycomb core, new and non-obvious methods and hardware are required.
It was with knowledge of the foregoing state of the technology that the present invention has been conceived and is now reduced to practice.
According to the invention, a die and a stationary member of resilient gas permeable composition are adapted to receive between them a three-dimensional honeycomb core article. The die includes an array of elongated mutually parallel translating pins, each terminating at a tip end and arranged in a matrix for longitudinal movement between retracted and extended positions. The stationary member includes a receiving surface facing and laterally coextensive with the tip ends of the translating pins. The tip ends are engageable with a first end surface of the article, the receiving surface of the stationary member being engageable with a second end surface of the article. The die includes a housing movably mounting the translating pins, drive output shafts drivingly connected with each associated translating pin, a transmission for independent driving controllable interconnection of each translating pin, and a selectively energizable controller interconnecting each transmission to thereby achieve selective rotation of at least one translating pin. Each translating pin may be hollow and have planar sides which prevents its rotation by the restraining action of adjacent translating pins. A controller individually moves the translating pins in a coordinated manner into engagement with the first end surface to thereby impart a desired contour while simultaneously urging the second end surface of the honeycomb core article into engagement with the receiving surface of the stationary member producing a contour substantially similar to the first end surface. Temperature controlled circuitous gas flow may be provided through the translating pins, article, and stationary member.
The present invention details a single-die reconfigirable approach to forming honeycomb core using a modularized, computer-controlled forming die. The forming die utilizes an array of pins or members which translate to form a three-dimensional male or female external surface. The adjustable form die is configured so that hot air is blown through (or between) the discrete pins and through (or into) the cells of the honeycomb core to be formed. The opposite face of the honeycomb core is contacted by porous material to facilitate the flow of hot air or gas through the cells of the honeycomb core. Conformable material, material which the core cells can penetrate without cell-wall damage, or a fluid-filled bladder react the forming forces received by the honeycomb core. The described invention allows the forming sequence and core deformation to be controlled using press forming techniques in combination with partial and/or complete translation of the translating pills.
The present invention provides numerous advantages over the prior art including:
greater versatility: contour changes are made by recalling files from computer memory;
adaptability to changes: stored data can be "tweaked" as needed by changing pin translational data;
lower space requirements: no extra dies need to be stored;
greater production output;
less down time for contour changes; and
lower overall tooling cost which results from using the described adjustable, discrete heated forming process compared to presently-used fixed-die forming systems when a variety of core shapes must be formed by the same forming machine or system.
The process described herein is also inherently safer to the honeycomb core and to personnel since groups of pins can be used for intermediate core clamping to control local strains, and heavy fixed contour dies do not have to be changed with each different core shape needed.
When forming a wide-enough variety of honeycomb core shapes that it is advantageous to use a discrete, adjustable form die method over the typical heated core-and-fixed-die method, a modular approach to building larger form dies can offer a lower overall system cost than a non-modular approach. When many modules are assembled in a "building block" approach, lower overall cost is achieved by simplifying wiring, assembly, and machining operations. Inherently lower overall risk is also associated with modulalization because this approach reduces the magnitude of errors which cause scrap when creating larger-scale tools. Lower risk in this case translates to lower overall cost. A more consistent and accurately formed core contour can also result from the better temperature control and method of applying and removing heat as needed, and not before.
Easier servicing, component replacement, and less down time result when using the modular "building block" approach described herein. Individual modules utilize quick-disconnect electrical plugs, and rapid cross shaft gearing connections so that module replacement can be accomplished with minimum down time. Individual module repair and/or service can then take place off-line.
Still greater versatility can be achieved by inexpensively allowing overall tool plan form size changes. The overall plan form (length and width) dimensions of the active forminig area can be changed when using the modular "building block" units to create adjustable form tools. Modules can easily be added or subtracted within the limitations allowed by the overall form tool base plates. The base plates can have printed circuitry, electrical connectors, pre-installed wiring, and/or bus bars for motor power, logic, and communication between modules and between modules and computer(s), all using common parts to lower assembly time and cost.
Framing members, if used, around the die assembly may have to be changed, but their cost would be low compared to replacement of an entire form tool of larger plan form, that is, overall length and width.
This invention can also claim all of the advantages of adjustable tooling. Many fixed-contour dies can be replaced by the adjustable dies described herein. This represents a significant tooling savings as well as savings in storage space, handling, repair, maintenance and rework of fixed dies.
Further, the invention described herein can be used for room temperature honeycomb core forming of aluminum honeycomb core, for example, as well as hot forming of Nomex™, graphite, fiberglass, and other nonmetallic honeycomb. The described hardware can also be used to retrofit old fixed-die presses.
Other and further features, advantages, and benefits of the invention will become apparent in the following description taken in conjunction with the following drawings. It is to be understood that the foregoing general description and the following detailed description are exemplary and explanatory but are not to be restrictive of the invention. The accompanying drawings which are incorporated in and constitute a part of this invention, illustrate one of the embodiments of the invention, and together with the description, serve to explain the principles of the invention in general terms. Like numerals refer to like parts throughout the disclosure.
FIG. 1 is an elevation view of apparatus embodying the invention with certain parts broken away and shown in section for clarity;
FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view of the apparatus illustrated in FIG. 1;
FIG. 3 is a detail elevation view of a translating pin for use with the apparatus of FIGS. 1 and 2 of the type that allows hot air (or gas) to flow through the pin and be diffused into the cells of honeycomb core;
FIG. 3A is a cross section view taken generally along line 3A—3A in FIG. 3;
FIG. 3B is a top plan view of the translating pin illustrated in FIG. 3;
FIG. 3C is a cross section view taken generally along line 3C—3C in FIG. 3;
FIG. 4 is a detail elevation view of a modified translating pin, also for use with the apparatus of FIGS. 1 and 2, of the type that allows hot air (or gas) to flow outside of the pins through the cells of the honeycomb core via channels created by the external geometry of the pins when grouped together.
FIG. 4A is a cross section view taken generally along line 4A—4A in FIG. 4;
FIG. 4B is a top plan view illustrating a plurality of the translating pins illustrated in FIG. 4 as an array in side-by-side relationship to depict the channels which are formed by grouping the pins together;
FIG. 5 is an exploded perspective view illustrating a single individual-clutch module using two columns by six rows of translating pins; and
FIG. 6 is an exploded perspective view illustrating a single individual motor module using two columns by two rows of translating pins.
Numerous embodiments may result from the invention, some of which will be described explicitly, each depending upon the type of pin drive system used (clutch or individual motor) and the type of heat delivery system used (heated air or gas which is directed to flow either through-the pins or between-the-pins). Designations A1, A2, B1 and B2 are herein used to identify the different embodiments. The "A" and "B" designations refer to the type of drive system used. The "A" embodiments use a large motor to drive two columns of pins at a time whereby the lead screw of each pin is connected to the rotating input shafts with a timed electric signal to each clutch. The "B" embodiments use individual motors, each with an in-line gear reducer to directly drive the lead screw of each pin or translating member. The four basic embodiments use modular construction with modules having less than or equal to the number of pins in the upper or lower die. Suffix 1 and 2 refer to the type of hot air or other gas delivery method used. Suffix 1-type pins have holes in the tips and bases so that heated air (or gas) can pass through the hollow pins, and suffix 2-type pins use external channels created by the pins' outer geometry to allow heated air (or gas) to pass between the pins. Still another two embodiments are possible (but not described further herein) by combining suffix 1 and 2 methods for each "A" and "B" drive system. Note that the number of possible embodiments may be doubled by considering that each of the previous six embodiments may be configured with only one module each (preferably for the special case of small dies), effectively eliminating the modular design feature. Details of both drive systems, and each heat delivery type are described and shown within. These basic two drive and two heat delivery methods are combined as indicated by the designations to form the four described embodiments.
Modules for large form dies can easily be added or subtracted within the limitations allowed by the overall form tool base plate. The base plate can have printed circuitry, electrical connectors, pre-installed wiring, and bus bars for motor power, logic, and communication between modules and between modules and computer(s).
It should be noted that the form die may be attached to the movable ram of a forming press whereby one or more external hydraulic cylinders, or screw jack type devices (not shown), or other translational means may be used to move the discrete-pin, adjustable form die. Or the die could be attached to a fixed platen, with the opposing platen movable. The adjustable form die could also be used, but less desirably, without a forming press, using the translating pins to provide all of the movement. Press-type forming methods are well known in the art. The adaptation of the invention embodiments described herein is dependent upon the particular press, and the adaptation techniques are well known to those of ordinary skill in the art. They are therefore not shown specifically. Hydraulic, pneumatic, screw-type drive presses, or even a fixed rigid structure may therefore be used without changing the spirit of the invention.
Two drive system approaches may be used to translate the pins. The first has been described in pending U.S. application Ser. No. 08/921,823 filed Sep. 2, 1997 entitled "Modularized Parallel Drivetrain", now U.S. Pat. No. 5,954,175 the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein in its entirety. It uses modules, each comprised of of an input shaft which is geared to two columns of parallel driven shafts. The rotary motion of the parallel driven shafts is converted into translational motion by lead screw and drive nuts which are connected to the pins. A drive gear at the bottom of each parallel driven shaft use right-hand threads or gearing on one column of driven shafts, and left hand threads or gearing on the other column. The Modularized Parallel Drivetrain approach is used to impart translational movement to a large matrix of pins or members in the same direction along many parallel axes simultaneously. The driven shafts are each engaged by individual electromagnetic clutches, and the translational distance required is determined by the duration of a electric signal. Rotary encoders can be connected to the driven shafts to provide feedback if necessary.
A second modular drive system approach utilizes individual motors to translate each pin. Each module uses an evenly-spaced array of miniature electric motors with in-line gear reducers and in-line rotary encoders. The individual motors are installed into a housing which also contains circuitry for providing local motor-control logic and inter-module communication. The relatively high output speed and low torque of the small motors is converted via the aforementioned gear reducers to lower rotational speed and higher torque. The output shaft of each individual gear reducer turns a lead screw. The lead screws impart translational movement to pins or members which are grouped together in an array, along many evenly-spaced parallel axes simultaneously. Each pin or translational member can therefore be activated to translate a unique distance individually, in any combination, or all the pins can be translated simultaneously.
Computer control of the die assures better results by tailoring the forming process to the individual job's needs. Algorithms which minimize local core deformations and provide an allowance for "spring back" may be included. This assures that the honeycomb core is formed precisely. Cool air can be introduced at the proper time in the forming cycle to cool the core and/or forming tool as desired. The entire forming sequence and the individual pin movements can be controlled by a Personal Computer (PC), computer work station, or other computer terminal which can preferably support a Graphical User Interface (GUI). The modular design or "building block" approach to discrete tooling not only reduces cost, but facilitates the manufacturing of discrete, reconfigurable tools with respect to repair, maintenance, tolerance build-up, wiring, assembly, and machining processes.
Many types of honeycomb core are traditionally hot-formed on a press. Core can be formed on a heated press or oven-heated and formed on a non-heated press, both traditionally using fixed-contour machined or cast dies to impart the needed 3-D contours to the exterior surfaces. Honeycomb core is also roll-formed and contour machined to achieve the desired external contours. Roll forming is generally limited to honeycomb core which has ruled surfaces, and cannot be used effectively to produce formed honeycomb core with contours that change in two orthogonal directions, both normal to the direction of the cells.
Since the cost for an adjustable forming die is high relative to the cost for a fixed-contour die, the use of discrete tooling should be considered when very few pieces each of a large variety of core details are needed. The converse is generally also true. Formed honeycomb core is generally used in aerospace application is where each aircraft requires a large variety of honeycomb core shapes. Since the economic viability of replacing a honeycomb core forming system using many fixed-contour dies with an adjustable-die system using a single discrete adjustable-contour die depends upon the number of fixed tools that an adjustable die can replace, aircraft manufacturing is well-suited to the discrete, adjustable-tooling approach. Additionally, the modular design approach allows the plan form of the discrete, adjustable die to be changed inexpensively, if needed. An adjustable form die can be changed rapidly to different length/width combinations by adding or subtracting modules mounted to oversize base plates.
Discrete, self-adjusting form tools which blow heated air through or into the cells of the core can form the core very rapidly. Additionally, these tools can adapt to many shapes through the use of data files stored within computer memory. When the desired size of the form die permits (i.e. only small plan form pieces of honeycomb core will be formed), only one module may be necessary to accommodate the needed plan form, thus utilizing a non-modular design. Large discrete dies composed of large numbers of translating pins or members encounter problems in assembly, wiling, tolerance build-up, and servicing. Additionally, the risk involved with machining tool bases and housings from solid material increases with the number of translating pins or members required for forming. The amount of machining necessary for a large discrete die could therefore be substantial. This causes high tool costs due to the large expenditures required to buy metal stock, then subsequently remove large volumes of metal during machining operations. The concept of "modularity" is additionally needed for discrete tools to allow taking a "building block" approach. The building block approach allows the tool designer to make use of low-cost, high quality castings for geartrain or drive motor housings and bases. Control systems for positioning of individual translating pins or members require substantial amounts of wiring which can become a problem when many wires are grouped together in very limited space. The use of modularity is described in prior-mentioned pending U.S. application Ser. No. 08/921,823 filed Sep. 2, 1997 entitled "Modularized Parallel Drivetrain", now U.S. Pat. No. 5,954,175 and pending U.S. application Ser. No. 08/903,476 filed Jul. 30, 1997 entitled "Individual Motor Pin Module", now U.S. Pat. No. 6,012,314, the entire disclosure of which is also incorporated herein in its entirety, for large die assemblies offers many advantages over non-modular discrete tool designs. "Modularity", as described, permits the use of distributed control system logic which helps alleviate the problem of handling large quantities of wires in limited space. When using distributed logic, control system circuitry is placed inside each module housing minimizing external wiring connections.
Since heated honeycomb core is generally press-formed using fixed, three-dimensionally contoured dies, the springback in the honeycomb core cells is partly dependent upon the changing forming temperature of the core, die, and opposing surface material. Fixed dies do not have the ability to apply and remove heat directly to and from the honeycomb core cells. Springback and final shape consistency are therefore difficult to control precisely.
Troubleshooting, servicing, maintenance, repair and replacement tasks are also difficult to accomplish with discrete, self-adjusting tools without using the modular approach. Repairs, servicing, and maintenance of large discrete tools could otherwise require taking the equipment off-line for a long period of time. Down-time is therefore minimized by having the capability to rapidly replace complete modular assemblies quickly from acceptable spares stock.
Turn now to the drawings. Although the present invention will be described with reference to the embodiments shown in the drawings, it should be understood that the present invention can be embodied in many alternate forms of embodiments. In addition, any suitable size, shape or type of elements or materials could be used.
Embodiment A uses individual clutch drive modules 100 as shown in FIG. 5 and either suffix 1 or 2 type discrete translating pins or members 5 or 505 as shown in FIGS. 3 and 4 respectively. The adjustable form die 230 (FIG. 1) may employ the modularized "building-block" approach of adding (or subtracting) common modules 560 (FIG. 2) containing a smaller quantity of clutch-driven lead screw assemblies. Alternatively, if the size of the adjustable form die 230 permits, one module only may be used having the same number of pins 5 or 505 as the entire adjustable form die 230. Modules 100 containing two columns of eight rows each are shown for convenience, but any number of rows and columns could be used as long as each module 100 is identical. The suffix 1 or 2 heated air (or gas) delivery methods determine how the heated air (or gas) is channeled into or through the cells of the honeycomb core 200. Alternatively, these two heated air or gas delivery methods could be potentially combined if desired. Both hot air (or gas) delivery methods employ a heater or heat exchanger 260 which can supply hot or cool air (or gas) via vents and/or other controls (not shown) as necessitated during the particular stage of the forming cycle. The air or gas may be channeled through a suitable filter 290 and a recycling duct 320 which connects to a manifold which is coextensive with a stationary member 310 of resilient composition and may be porous to the flow of the air or gas. Methods of supplying cool air are well known in the art and are not specifically shown but are optionally a part of this invention. Note that if the stationary member 310 is of a material that doesn't permit the flow of air or gas, the interpolating pad 210 must have sufficient thickness and porosity for substantially even flow of air or gas to the cells of the honeycomb core article 200.
The stationary member 310 of resilient composition includes a receiving surface 330 facing and laterally coextensive with the tip ends 6, 506 of the translating pins 5, 505. The die 230 and the stationary member 310 are adapted to receive the honeycomb core article 200 between them such that interpolating, pads 210 are located at either end of the honeycomb core 200 and the tip ends of the array of translating pins are engageable with one surface of the interpolating pad 210 and the opposite surface of the interpolating pad 210 engages with the surface of the honeycomb core article. The receiving surface 330 of the stationary member is engageable with one end of the other interpolating pad 210 and the opposite surface of the interpolating pad 210 engages with the surface of the honeycomb article 200.
The generic heated adjustable honeycomb core forming tool 1 shown in FIG. 1 may use an adjustable form die 230 as shown in FIG. 2 (without framing) whereby the translating pins or members 5 or 505 move under computer control such that the outer surfaces of the pin tips 6 or 506 form a three-dimensional (generally concave or convex) surface. The honeycomb core 200 is forced to assume the con tour of the surface created by the outer pin tips 6 or 506 by the movement of the press and/or pins 5 or 505. At least one mesh or interpolating pad 210 may be placed between the pins and the honeycomb core 200 and optionally on the opposite side of the core 200. High-temperature, open-weave fiber or mesh pads 210 may be used to prevent local crippling or damage to the honeycomb core 200 cell walls and to evenly diffuse heated air or gas through the cells so that fast, even heat-up and cool-down is assured. A heater or heat exchanger 260 is shown diagrammatically in FIG. 1 which is used with a blower or pump 250 for air (or gas) circulation. Ducting or hose 270 is used to interconnect the components approximately as shown. The heater or heat exchanger 260 may be a gas, oil, electric, or other type of heater, or a conductive, convective, or radiative-type heat exchanger. A computer control module 300 is shown in FIG. 1 which interfaces with a PC, work station, or other computer terminal 301 containing a user interface. Although one computer control module is shown, any number may be used according to the circuit layout for the particular tool. Thermal insulation may be used to prevent motor or clutch overheating, but is not specifically shown. Note that additional ducting (not shown) may be supplied to bypass the heater or heat exchanger 260 and/or other elements without changing the spirit of the invention.
Referring to FIGS. 3, 4, and 5, each pin 5 or 505 has a tip 6 or 506 and a base or drive nut 15 or 515. The base or drive nut 15 or 515 has internal threads which mate to its respective lead screw 10 or 510. Alternatively, the pins 5 or 505 may be bored from solid metal stock and internally threaded a short distance from the base, but it is preferable to make the pins from hollow or semi-hollow tubes. If the pins 5 or 505 are made from hollow tubes, a lead screw base or drive nut (or coupling) 15 or 515 needs to be attached to the end of the pin shank 9 or 509. In suffix 1 (shown in FIG. 3), the lead screw base or drive nut has holes 516 drilled or formed to allow the passage of heated air (or gas) into the hollow pin and through additional holes 507 or passages in the pin tip 506.
The pins 5 or 505 of Embodiment A are translated by the lead screws 10 or 510 which are rotated directly by specific timed electric signal from the control system to apply each individual clutch 55 to connect the flow of rotary power from the input shaft 65 to the lead screw 10 or 510. After the pin module assembly 100 is inserted into the frame of the forming die apparatus 1, the pins 5 or 505 are prevented from rotating by the restraining action of the pins' planar sides against the sides of the tooling frame. Note that the pins 5 or 505 are preferably square (nominally), but can be rectangular or hexagonal in cross section, and may or may not have external chamfers or radii. The applied clutch 55 therefore rotates the lead screw 10 or 510 and translates each pin 5 or 505 a distance proportional to the length of time of the clutch "apply" signal given a steady gear train output shaft 25 rotational speed (e.g. from a synchronous motor whose output shaft speed remains fairly constant as loads change within its operating range). Also, as seen in FIG. 3A, insulating material 565 may optionally be provided on each of the translating pins for minimizing heat transfer to the pins from the air flowing to the cells of the honeycomb core article 200.
Referring to FIG. 5, the input shaft 65 is driven by an external motor(s) (not shown). Either one single motor per module can be used to drive the module input shaft(s), or a cross shaft can be used to drive columns of parallel modules via one or more external motors. The motor(s) may or may not have its or their own gear reduction gearbox(es), depending upon the required lead screw 10 or 510 speed and input shaft drive gear-to-clutch drive gear ratios 90 & 85. Power is transmitted from the input shaft 65 to the clutch assembly 55 via the 90° meshing of the input shaft drive gear 90 and clutch drive gear 85 which can be either worm gear, helical or other gear combinations as long as a 90° change in power flow is permitted to drive the input side of the clutch assembly 55. The input shaft 65 is supported by bearings 60 (or optionally bushings) which can withstand both radial and axial thrust forces.
The bearings 60 are retained by bearing retainers 110 which can withstand both axial and radial forces. The clutch assembly 55, when deactivated, will not transmit rotary motion to the clutch output shaft 105. Each clutch assembly 55 must be activated by a timed electric signal which connects the flow of power from the clutch drive gear 85, through the clutch assembly 55, to the clutch output shaft 105 and lead screw 10 or 510. The control system 301, capable of applying these timed signals, can be used with either centralized or distributed logic. The control system (not shown) may operate using either an open-loop or no feedback mode or a closed loop mode in the event rotary encoders (not shown) are connected to the clutch output shafts 105.
The lead screws 10 or 510 are all threaded to allow the translating component or pin 5 or 505 to translate to the bottom of its' travel such that the flow or heated air or gas is blocked from passing through to the internal or external flow passages. This assures that the flow of heated air or gas is directed to the honeycomb core only. Blocks may be added as needed (not shown) to prevent heated air or gas from being directed other than as desired. Temperature or thermal measurement sensors or devices (not shown) may be included to detect the temperature of the honeycomb core or forming cavity. Spacers (not shown) may also be used as needed to help locate small core details and allow the tool to adapt to different sizes of honeycomb core. Since linear, motion in the same direction from all shafts simultaneously, is desired, alternate columns of translating components or pins 5 or 505 may have opposite hand threads or teeth so that all of the parallel lead screws 10 or 510 can translate simultaneously in the same direction if desired.
Modularized Parallel Drive Trains 100 used in this invention (as described in U.S. application Ser. No. 08/921,823 can be connected to one another in series by using male and/or female links or slip couplings between two connected collinear input shafts 65. The modules 100 therefore can he placed side by side, front-to-back, or both.
FIGS. 2 and 6 show the Embodiment B Modular Individual-Motor drive approach (reference U.S. application Ser. No. 08/903,476). As with the Modularized Individual Clutch Drive method, either suffix 1 or 2 translating pins 5 or 505, lead screws 10 or 510, and the like may be used (individually or in combination). The prior discussion of the pins applies as does the discussion of the overall tool design and operation except as noted herein.
Referring to FIG. 6, the lead screws 10 or 510 are connected directly to the gear train output shafts 525 which in turn receives its' rotary motion from the motor 540 via the in-line gear train 535 unit. The motor 540 torque therefore translates each pin a distance proportional to the amount of gear train output shaft 525 rotation. The gear train 535 can use either planetary or non-planetary gears. These units are readily available commercially and can be connected directly to the motor 540 housing and motor output shaft. Each motor 540 is activated by D.C. power. The control system 310 which is capable of controlling pin motion can be built with either centralized or distributed logic. The distributed logic approach is preferred when building large scale contour tools because the amount of external wiring is greatly reduced. The control system determines how many revolutions (and portions of revolutions) that the motor 540 must revolve and stores the correct number of pulses in local memory. As the motor 540 rotates, the local circuitry counts the number of pulses from the rotary encoder assembly 545. The number of pulsed-feedback signals is compared to the target number of pulses stored in local memory for each motor 540, and the motor is stopped when the pulses counted are greater than or equal to the stored target number of pulses. Wiring is therefore needed from the motor 540 encoder assembly 545 to the local circuit board 550, and from the local circuit board 550 to the neighboring circuit modules. Wiring is also needed to the control computer 301 and to electrical power (not shown).
In practice, all modules are identical and interchangeable, yet each module can be individually addressed by the system controller. To accomplish this, the modules communicate using a novel bi-directional ring architecture and communication scheme. In this architecture, a module receives commands and data from the preceding module, that is, closer to the system controller, and acts on and/or transmits to the succeeding module, that is, the module which is farther from the system controller. This provides an extensible mechanism by which any number of controllers can receive a command. For a controller to recognize and act upon a command, it must have been initialized to a valid, unique address. Since all modules are initially configured to have an invalid address stored in EEPROM (Electrically Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory), the system controller first transmits an initialize command with the desired starting address, and the first module accepts this as its address and stores it. This module then increments the address and transmits it to the next module in the ring, which repeats the process. The last module in the ring transmits to the system controller, which receives the initialize command containing an address that is one larger than the total number of modules in the system. By this method, all modules are initialized with unique addresses, and the system controller is made aware of the exact number of modules and their addresses.
In actual use, the pitch of the lead screw 10 or 510 is chosen so that the pins 5 or 505 are self-locking under compressive load. Forming loads are transferred from the pill 5 or 505 to the lead screw 10 or 510 and then from the lead screw base 15 or 515 to the module base 520. As with the Individual Clutch method of Embodiment A, the pins 5 or 505 are prevented from rotating by the restraining action of their planar sides against framing members or sidewalls 240 of the form die. Each pin module assembly 560 is located via locating pins 555, or the like, onto a base plate or frame member 220 which connects to the frame 280 of the form die for enclosing an upper and lower array of pin module assemblies 560.
While preferred embodiments of the invention have been disclosed in detail, it should be understood by those skilled in the art that various other modifications may be made to the illustrated embodiments without departing from the scope of the invention as described in the specification and defined in the appended claims.
|Brevet cité
|Date de dépôt
|Date de publication
|15 févr. 1929
|13 oct. 1931
|Fritz Hess
|Process and apparatus for manufacturing anatomically accurate individual foot supports for shoes
|10 juin 1939
|21 avr. 1942
|Curtiss Wright Corp
|Sheet metal forming apparatus
|13 mai 1942
|16 nov. 1943
|Tom Walters
|16 mars 1945
|3 aoűt 1948
|Franklin O'kelley John
|Hood and fender jig
|11 déc. 1952
|5 mars 1957
|Virginia P Tegarden
|Forming machine
|17 aoűt 1953
|11 nov. 1958
|Northrop Aircraft Inc
|Combined resilient press pad and expandable bladder
|16 déc. 1960
|12 mars 1963
|Ann Ridder Clara
|Chairs and seats
|18 janv. 1979
|15 juil. 1980
|The Boeing Company
|Apparatus for forming sheet metal
|14 juil. 1988
|26 déc. 1989
|The Cleveland Clinic Foundation
|Computer aided prescription of specialized seats for wheelchairs or other body supports
|17 avr. 1989
|24 juil. 1990
|Shell Oil Company
|Apparatus for forming preformed material
|17 janv. 1989
|20 nov. 1990
|The Cleveland Clinic Foundation
|Computer aided fabrication of wheelchair seats or other body supports
|27 mars 1991
|29 sept. 1992
|The Charles Stark Draper Lab., Inc.
|Reconfigurable fiber-forming resin transfer system
|12 juin 1990
|23 févr. 1993
|Morita And Company Co. Ltd.
|Leaf spring cambering method and apparatus
|28 janv. 1994
|5 déc. 1995
|Kinugawa Rubber Ind. Co., Ltd.
|Bending processing method and apparatus therefor
|22 mars 1994
|13 févr. 1996
|Umformtechnik Stade Gmbh
|Method of and apparatus for the shaping of stainless steel membranes for vacuum-heat-insulation elements
|5 déc. 1994
|20 aoűt 1996
|Grumman Aerospace Corporation
|Adjustable form die
|4 déc. 1995
|14 avr. 1998
|General Motors Corporation
|Device for generating a fixture
|3 févr. 1995
|18 aoűt 1998
|Cleveland Advanced Manufacturing Program
|Computerized system for lost foam casting process using rapid tooling set-up
|21 mai 1996
|20 oct. 1998
|The Boeing Company
|Honeycomb core forming process
|12 mai 1999
|18 juil. 2000
|Northrop Grumman Corporation
|Modularized reconfigurable heated forming tool
|28 févr. 2000
|3 avr. 2001
|Northrop Grumman Corporation
|Pin tip assembly in tooling apparatus for forming honeycomb cores
|Titre non disponible
|Brevet citant
|Date de dépôt
|Date de publication
|30 juin 2003
|9 janv. 2007
|Owens Corning Fiberglas Technology, Inc.
|Flow through molding apparatus and method
|17 juin 2004
|4 nov. 2008
|Par Systems, Inc.
|Flexible fixture
|23 déc. 2004
|3 nov. 2009
|Surface Generation Ltd.
|Tooling system
|13 févr. 2002
|27 avr. 2010
|Surface Generation Limited
|Tooling system and method
|23 déc. 2004
|1 juin 2010
|Surface Generation, Ltd
|Tooling System
|14 sept. 2006
|6 mars 2012
|Surface Generation, Ltd.
|Reconfigurable tooling system for supporting a workpiece
|11 févr. 2009
|4 déc. 2012
|Ford Global Technologies, Llc
|System and method for incrementally forming a workpiece
|22 oct. 2008
|4 juin 2013
|Asian Takaoka Co., Ltd.
|Heating equipment for a plate to be heated and heating method
|6 aoűt 2010
|15 avr. 2014
|Par Systems, Inc.
|Flexible fixture
|6 aoűt 2010
|3 févr. 2015
|Par Systems, Inc.
|Support assemblies for a flexible fixture
|26 juil. 2010
|3 mars 2015
|The Boeing Company
|Tooling system for processing workpieces
|22 mai 2014
|23 mai 2017
|Toyota Boshoku Kabushiki Kaisha
|Press die
|12 sept. 2014
|30 mai 2017
|Massachusetts Institute Of Technology
|Methods and apparatus for selective rod actuation
|13 févr. 2002
|29 juil. 2004
|Halford Ben John
|Workpiece support
|30 juin 2003
|30 déc. 2004
|Parks Jerry M.
|Flow through molding apparatus and method
|17 juin 2004
|27 janv. 2005
|Par Systems, Inc.
|Flexible fixture
|23 déc. 2004
|24 janv. 2008
|Halford Ben J
|Tooling System
|23 déc. 2004
|29 mai 2008
|Surface Generation Ltd.
|Tooling System
|14 sept. 2006
|5 mars 2009
|Surface Generation Limited
|Reconfigurable tooling system for supporting a workpiece
|23 janv. 2007
|25 févr. 2010
|Anthony Ross Forsyth
|Active reconfigurable stretch forming
|11 févr. 2009
|12 aoűt 2010
|Ford Global Technologies, Llc
|System and method for incrementally forming a workpiece
|6 aoűt 2010
|17 févr. 2011
|Par Systems, Inc.
|Support assemblies for a flexible fixture
|22 oct. 2008
|24 févr. 2011
|Aisin Takaoka Co., Ltd.
|Heating equipment for a plate to be heated and heating method
|16 déc. 2011
|26 juin 2014
|Daimler Ag
|Draping and Compression Molding Tool and Method for Producing a Preform and a Fiber-Plastic Composite Component
|22 mai 2014
|4 déc. 2014
|Toyota Boshoku Kabushiki Kaisha
|Press die
|23 janv. 2015
|31 mars 2016
|Apple Inc.
|Versatile dynamic stamping/restriking tool
|25 févr. 2016
|1 sept. 2016
|Aida Engineering, Ltd.
|Bending apparatus and bending method for a plate-shaped metal workpiece
|11 juil. 2006
|1 sept. 2010
|A device and a method for holding workpieces in machining operations
|18 aoűt 2006
|18 mai 2011
|Improved method for debindering ceramic honeycombs
|23 janv. 2007
|25 févr. 2015
|Active reconfigurable stretch forming tool and method
|29 janv. 2016
|11 mai 2016
|Three-dimensional mold manufacturing system and method
|23 janv. 2007
|5 févr. 2009
|Commonwealth Scientific And Industrial Research Organisation
|Aktives rekonfigurierbares Streckformen
|23 janv. 2007
|4 juin 2009
|Commonwealth Scientific And Industrial Research Organisation
|Aktives rekonfigurierbares Streckformen
|17 juin 2004
|29 mars 2006
|Par Systems, Inc.
|Flexible fixture
|17 juin 2004
|11 avr. 2007
|Par Systems Inc
|Flexible fixture
|22 oct. 2008
|6 oct. 2010
|Aisin Takaoka Co., Ltd.
|Device and method for heating material
|22 oct. 2008
|9 janv. 2013
|Aisin Takaoka Ltd
|Device and method for heating material
|11 juil. 2006
|25 janv. 2007
|Jobs S.P.A.
|Device and method for supporting workpieces in machining operations, by means of an array of actuators
|11 juil. 2006
|18 mai 2007
|Maurizio Ferrari
|Device and method for supporting workpieces in machining operations, by means of an array of actuators
|18 aoűt 2006
|4 oct. 2007
|Dow Global Technologies Inc.
|Improved method for debindering ceramic honeycombs
|18 aoűt 2006
|28 févr. 2008
|Dow Global Technologies Inc
|Improved method for debindering ceramic honeycombs
|Classification aux États-Unis
|72/57, 72/413, 72/342.1, 72/38
|Classification internationale
|Classification coopérative
|Classification européenne
|9 sept. 1999
Owner name: NORTHROP GRUMMAN CORPORATION, CALIFORNIA
Free format text: ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST;ASSIGNORS:HAAS, EDWIN GERARD;SCHWARZ, ROBERT CHARLES;PAPAZIAN, JOHN M.;REEL/FRAME:010236/0438
Effective date: 19990902
|18 déc. 2006
|Fee payment
Year of fee payment: 4
|8 déc. 2010
|Fee payment
Year of fee payment: 8
|7 janv. 2011
Owner name: NORTHROP GRUMMAN SYSTEMS CORPORATION, CALIFORNIA
Free format text: ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST;ASSIGNOR:NORTHROP GRUMMAN CORPORATION;REEL/FRAME:025597/0505
Effective date: 20110104
|11 déc. 2014
|Fee payment
Year of fee payment: 12


text:
Mets-Athletics Preview
After the Oakland Athletics bolstered their rotation with two high-profile trades prior to the non-waiver deadline, many figured they would cruise to the AL West crown.
Despite a season-worst losing streak that caused them to fall out of first place for the first time since April, the A's are confident they can regroup.
Oakland looks to avoid a sixth straight defeat as Scott Kazmir seeks a career-best 14th victory in Tuesday night's series opener with the visiting New York Mets.
The A's (73-51) acquired starters Jeff Samardzija and Jason Hammel from the Chicago Cubs on July 4 and made another big splash July 31 when they dealt slugger Yoenis Cespedes to Boston for Jon Lester.
They were alone in first place from April 28 through Saturday, when the Los Angeles Angels slipped ahead of them. Lester then suffered his first defeat since the trade, giving up four runs in six innings of a 4-3 loss to Atlanta on Sunday.
Oakland has dropped seven of eight, but the attitude has remained positive.
"Guys are competing, we just aren't getting results right now," Lester said. "This team's too good to stay in this funk."
After a 1-6 road trip, the A's head home for two against the Mets and a crucial three-game set with the Angels beginning Friday. Oakland is a major league-best 21-7 at home since June 17.
"This was not a good trip, so we've got to get home and we've got to regroup," manager Bob Melvin said. "It will be good to get home in front of our crowd. They're usually good for us."
Kazmir (13-5, 2.78 ERA) has gone 7-2 with a 2.34 ERA at O.co Coliseum but hasn't been very effective in two starts there this month, yielding nine runs and 15 hits in 12 2-3 innings. He was better on the road Wednesday, allowing three runs in seven innings of a 3-0 loss to Kansas City.
"I felt good. I was able to add and subtract from my fastball, but the important thing was I was getting my changeup back," Kazmir said. "That's positive going forward, definitely."
He'll try again to surpass his career high for victories, first set in 2007 with Tampa Bay, against the club which made the left-hander a first-round pick in 2002 and handed him his worst start this year. Kazmir gave up seven runs and eight hits – including three homers – in three innings of a 10-1 loss to New York on June 24.
The Mets (59-67) didn't have that type of offense during a four-game split with the Cubs, being held to four hits in each contest. They fell 4-1 on Monday as they matched a franchise record with fewer than five hits for the fifth straight game.
"Maybe they're swinging too much," manager Terry Collins said. "It's trying not to do too much, just try to put the barrel on the baseball."
New York has provided Dillon Gee only five runs of support over his last six starts.
Gee (4-5, 3.69) is 0-4 with a 5.60 ERA during that span. He gave up four runs and walked a season worst-tying four in six innings of Thursday's 4-1 loss to Washington.
"The command's been on and off and I just keep working on it," said Gee, who has issued 13 walks in his last 22 1-3 innings. "There's nothing really I can pinpoint that's making that a problem."
The right-hander had a career-high six walks in his only start against the A's, giving up four runs in four innings of a 7-3 loss in 2011.
FOX Sports Go