Howard Kiel Plummer

US Patent:

61893862, Feb 20, 2001

Filed:

Dec 5, 1997

Appl. No.:

8/985676

Inventors:

Fang Chen - Rochester Hills MI
Anthony M. Waas - Saline MI
Everett You-Ming Kuo - Troy MI
Howard Kiel Plummer - Dearborn MI
Thomas Eugene Allen - Royal Oak MI

Assignee:

Ford Global Technologies, Inc. - Dearborn MI

International Classification:

G01B 1114
G01N 308

US Classification:

73800

Abstract:

A method of using a microscopic digital imaging strain gauge includes the steps of creating a mark pattern on an object surface, positioning an image sensing device over the mark pattern, magnifying the mark pattern with a magnification lens, taking a first magnified image of the mark pattern with the image sensing device, applying a load to the object surface, taking a second magnified image of the mark pattern, and utilizing a processor to calculate the strain as derived from the first and second magnified images.

US Patent:

61299480, Oct 10, 2000

Filed:

Dec 22, 1997

Appl. No.:

8/995599

Inventors:

Howard K. Plummer - Dearborn MI
Robert C. McCune - Southfield MI
Jeffrey H. Helms - Plymouth MI

Assignee:

National Center for Manufacturing Sciences - Ann Arbor MI

International Classification:

B05D 112

US Classification:

427202

Abstract:

A high-velocity spray nozzle is used to physically embed conductive particles into the surface of a non-conductive substrate, thereby rendering it electrically conductive. In contrast to existing, chemically based alternatives, the method offers the use of a dry process with no chemical baths and associated environmental concerns; the ability to produce localized modifications, only in areas where actually required; the use of simple materials, such as air and powdered graphite; and a potential cost savings. Methods of modifying localized areas of the underlying substrate are also disclosed.

US Patent:

59203838, Jul 6, 1999

Filed:

Dec 5, 1997

Appl. No.:

8/985801

Inventors:

Fang Chen - Rochester Hills MI
Anthony M. Waas - Saline MI
Everett You-Ming Kuo - Troy MI
Howard Kiel Plummer - Dearborn MI
Thomas Eugene Allen - Royal Oak MI

Assignee:

Ford Global Technologies, Inc. - Dearborn MI

International Classification:

G01L 124

US Classification:

356 32

Abstract:

A strain gauge includes an image sensing device having a lens, a magnification lens optically coupled to the lens, a positioning mechanism connected to the image sensing device, an image capture device for receiving an image from the image sensing device, and a processor for mathematically analyzing the image received from the image capture device and to calculate strain.