Patents Represented by Attorney, Agent or Law Firm Gary G. Borda
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Patent number: 6793903Abstract: Nitric oxide (NO) is oxidized into nitrogen dioxide (NO2) by the high temperature decomposition of a hydrogen peroxide solution to produce the oxidative free radicals, hydroxyl and hydroperoxyl. The hydrogen peroxide solution is impinged upon a heated surface in a stream of nitric oxide where it decomposes to produce the oxidative free radicals. Because the decomposition of the hydrogen peroxide solution occurs within the stream of the nitric oxide, rapid gas-phase oxidation of nitric oxide into nitrogen dioxide occurs.Type: GrantFiled: December 6, 2001Date of Patent: September 21, 2004Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Administrator of the National Aeronautics and Space AdministrationInventor: Clyde F. Parrish
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Patent number: 6782753Abstract: A device and procedure for checking the health of a pressure transducer in situ is provided. The procedure includes measuring a fixed change in pressure above ambient pressure and a fixed change in pressure below ambient pressure. This is done by first sealing an enclosed volume around the transducer with a valve. A piston inside the sealed volume is then driven forward, compressing the enclosed gas, thereby increasing the pressure. A fixed pressure below ambient pressure is obtained by opening the valve, driving the piston forward, sealing the valve, and then retracting the piston. The output of the pressure transducer is recorded for both the overpressuring and the underpressuring. By comparing this data with data taken during a preoperative calibration, the health of the transducer is determined from the linearity, the hysteresis, and the repeatability of its output. The further addition of a thermometer allows constant offset error in the transducer output to be determined.Type: GrantFiled: November 9, 2001Date of Patent: August 31, 2004Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Administrator of the National Aeronautics and Space AdministrationInventors: Christopher D. Immer, Anthony Eckhoff, Pedro J. Medelius, Richard T. Deyoe, Stanley O. Starr
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Patent number: 6764617Abstract: A conductive ferromagnetic composition of matter comprising sulfonated lignin or a sulfonated polyflavonoid, or derivatives thereof, and ferromagnetic iron oxide particles is disclosed. Among the uses of the composition is to shield electromagnetic radiation. The ferromagnetic iron oxide particles of the composition are surprisingly stable to acid, and are easily and inexpensively formed from iron cations in solution.Type: GrantFiled: November 16, 2001Date of Patent: July 20, 2004Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Administrator of the National Aeronautics & Space AdministrationInventors: Tito Viswanathan, Brian Berry
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Patent number: 6757641Abstract: A multi-sensor transducer and processing method allow insitu monitoring of the senor accuracy and transducer ‘health’. In one embodiment, the transducer has multiple sensors to provide corresponding output signals in response to a stimulus, such as pressure. A processor applies individual weight factors to reach of the output signals and provide a single transducer output that reduces the contribution from inaccurate sensors. The weight factors can be updated and stored. The processor can use the weight factors to provide a ‘health’ of the transducer based upon the number of accurate versus in-accurate sensors in the transducer.Type: GrantFiled: June 28, 2002Date of Patent: June 29, 2004Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Administrator of the National Aeronautics and Space AdministrationInventors: Christopher D. Immer, John Lane, Anthony J. Eckhoff, Jose M. Perotti
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Patent number: 6742926Abstract: The system and method for testing thermal insulation uses a cryostatic insulation tester having a vacuum chamber and a cold mass including a test chamber and upper and lower guard chambers adjacent thereto. The thermal insulation is positioned within the vacuum chamber and adjacent the cold mass. Cryogenic liquid is supplied to the test chamber, upper guard and lower guard to create a first gas layer in an upper portion of the lower guard chamber and a second gas layer in an upper portion of the test chamber. Temperatures are sensed within the vacuum chamber to test the thermal insulation.Type: GrantFiled: July 10, 2001Date of Patent: June 1, 2004Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Administrator of the National Aeronautics and Space AdministrationInventors: James E. Fesmire, Stanislaw D. Augustynowicz
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Patent number: 6745014Abstract: A universal interface adapter circuit interfaces, for example, a wireless communications headset with any type of communications system, including those that require push-to-talk (PTT) signaling. The interface adapter is comprised of several main components, including an RF signaling receiver, a microcontroller and associated circuitry for decoding and processing the received signals, and programmable impedance matching and line interfacing circuitry for interfacing a wireless communications headset system base to a communications system. A signaling transmitter, which is preferably portable (e.g., handheld), is employed by the wireless headset user to send signals to the signaling receiver. In an embodiment of the invention directed specifically to push-to-talk (PTT) signaling, the wireless headset user presses a button on the signaling transmitter when they wish to speak. This sends a signal to the microcontroller which decodes the signal and recognizes the signal as being a PTT request.Type: GrantFiled: July 31, 2000Date of Patent: June 1, 2004Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Administrator of the National Aeronautics and Space AdministrationInventors: Marc A. Seibert, Anthony Joseph Culotta, Jr.
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Patent number: 6722006Abstract: A seal ring tool that allows an installer to position a primary seal ring between hub ends of pipe flanges that are being assembled together. The tool includes a pivoting handle member and extension arms attached to the pivoting handle member. The ends of the arms have side indentation type longitudinal grooves angled toward one another for holding the primary seal ring in place between the hubs of respective pipes that are to be attached together. The arms of the tool can also have flat sides that can be used to abut against an optional second larger seal that is supported within a groove in one of the hub ends so that the second hub end can then be moved against the other side of the primary seal ring. Once the seal ring is positioned between the pipe hubs, the pipe hubs can be moved about the seal ring due to the flat sides of the arms of the tool. The tool eliminates the chances of damaging and contaminating seal rings being installed within pipe hubs that are being attached to one another.Type: GrantFiled: October 24, 2000Date of Patent: April 20, 2004Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Administrator of the National Aeronautics and Space AdministrationInventor: L. Haynes Haselmaier
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Patent number: 6715914Abstract: A test apparatus and method of its use for evaluating various performance aspects of a piping segment locates a piping segment between two cold boxes. A first cold box conditions test fluid before providing the fluid into the piping segment. The first and second cold boxes both significantly reduce, if not eliminate, any heat transfer from the ends of the piping so that accurate measurements of heat leak rates from the sides of the piping segment may be determined.Type: GrantFiled: June 26, 2002Date of Patent: April 6, 2004Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Administrator of the National Aeronautics and Space AdministrationInventors: James E. Fesmire, Zoltan F. Nagy, Stanislaw D. Augustynowicz
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Patent number: 6664298Abstract: A zero-valent metal emulsion is used to dehalogenate solvents, such as pooled dense non-aqueous phase liquids (DNAPLs), including trichloroethylene (TCE). The zero-valent metal emulsion contains zero-valent metal particles, a surfactant, oil and water.Type: GrantFiled: October 2, 2001Date of Patent: December 16, 2003Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Administrator of the National Aeronautics & Space AdministrationInventors: Debra R. Reinhart, Christian Clausen, Cherie L. Geiger, Jacqueline Quinn, Kathleen Brooks
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Patent number: 6651481Abstract: Embodiments of apparatuses and methods are provided that use light sources instead of sound sources for characterizing and calibrating sensors for measuring small pressures to mitigate many of the problems with using sound sources. In one embodiment an apparatus has a light source for directing a beam of light on a sensing surface of a pressure sensor for exerting a force on the sensing surface. The pressure sensor generates an electrical signal indicative of the force exerted on the sensing surface. A modulator modulates the beam of light. A signal processor is electrically coupled to the pressure sensor for receiving the electrical signal.Type: GrantFiled: October 12, 2001Date of Patent: November 25, 2003Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the United States National Aeronautics and Space AdministrationInventor: Robert C Youngquist
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Patent number: 6650125Abstract: A method and system for locating leaks of conductive fluids from non-conductive pipes and other structures or for locating non-conductive pipes or structures having conductive fluid contained therein, employ a charge generator to apply a time varying charge to the conductive fluid, and a capacitive type detector that can detect the variable charge that is induced in the fluid. The capacitive detector, which preferably includes a handheld housing, employs a large conductive pickup plate that is used to locate the pipe or leak by scanning the plate over the ground and detecting the induced charge that is generated when the plate comes in close proximity to the pipe or leak. If a leak is encountered, the resulting signal will appear over an area larger than expected for a buried pipe, assuming the leak provides an electrically conductive path between the flow and the wet surrounding ground.Type: GrantFiled: December 6, 2001Date of Patent: November 18, 2003Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Administrator of the National Aeronautics and Space AdministrationInventor: Robert C. Youngquist
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Patent number: 6641638Abstract: The present invention describes a process for converting vapor streams from sources containing at least one nitrogen-containing oxidizing agent therein to a liquid fertilizer composition comprising the steps of: a) directing a vapor stream containing at least one nitrogen-containing oxidizing agent to a first contact zone, b) contacting said vapor stream with water to form nitrogen oxide(s) from said at least one nitrogen-containing oxidizing agent, c) directing said acid(s) as a second stream to a second contact zone, d) exposing said second stream to hydrogen peroxide which is present within said second contact zone in a relative amount of at least 0.Type: GrantFiled: February 17, 2000Date of Patent: November 4, 2003Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Administrator of the National Aeronautics & Space AdministrationInventors: Dale E. Lueck, Clyde F. Parrish
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Patent number: 6627065Abstract: Coating compositions and methods of their use are described herein for the reduction of corrosion in imbedded metal structures. The coatings are applied as liquids to an external surface of a substrate in which the metal structures are imbedded. The coatings are subsequently allowed to dry. The liquid applied coatings provide galvanic protection to the imbedded metal structures. Continued protection can be maintained with periodic reapplication of the coating compositions, as necessary, to maintain electrical continuity. Because the coatings may be applied using methods similar to standard paints, and because the coatings are applied to external surfaces of the substrates in which the metal structures are imbedded, the corresponding corrosion protection may be easily maintained. The coating compositions are particularly useful in the protection of metal-reinforced concrete.Type: GrantFiled: October 15, 2001Date of Patent: September 30, 2003Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Administrator of the National Aeronautics & Space AdministrationInventors: Louis G. MacDowell, Joseph J. Curran
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Patent number: 6585410Abstract: A self-calibrating nulling radiometer for non-contact temperature measurement of an object, such as a body of water, employs a black body source as a temperature reference, an optomechanical mechanism, e.g., a chopper, to switch back and forth between measuring the temperature of the black body source and that of a test source, and an infrared detection technique. The radiometer functions by measuring radiance of both the test and the reference black body sources; adjusting the temperature of the reference black body so that its radiance is equivalent to the test source; and, measuring the temperature of the reference black body at this point using a precision contact-type temperature sensor, to determine the radiative temperature of the test source.Type: GrantFiled: May 3, 2001Date of Patent: July 1, 2003Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Administrator of the National Aeronautics and Space AdministrationInventor: Robert Ryan
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Patent number: 6552521Abstract: An embodiment of the present invention uses a single detection system to approximate a location of lightning strikes. This system is triggered by a broadband RF detector and measures a time until the arrival of a leading edge of the thunder acoustic pulse. This time difference is used to determine a slant range R from the detector to the closest approach of the lightning. The azimuth and elevation are determined by an array of acoustic sensors. The leading edge of the thunder waveform is cross-correlated between the various acoustic sensors in the array to determine the difference in time of arrival, &Dgr;T. A set of &Dgr;T's is used to determine the direction of arrival, AZ and EL. The three estimated variables (R, AZ, EL) are used to locate a probable point of the lightning strike.Type: GrantFiled: July 10, 2001Date of Patent: April 22, 2003Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the United States National Aeronautics and Space AdministrationInventors: Pedro J. Medelius, Stanley O. Starr
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Patent number: 6512536Abstract: An automated cable and line inspection mechanism visually scans the entire surface of a cable as the mechanism travels along the cable=s length. The mechanism includes a drive system, a video camera, a mirror assembly for providing the camera with a 360 degree view of the cable, and a laser micrometer for measuring the cable=s diameter. The drive system includes an electric motor and a plurality of drive wheels and tension wheels for engaging the cable or line to be inspected, and driving the mechanism along the cable. The mirror assembly includes mirrors that are positioned to project multiple images of the cable on the camera lens, each of which is of a different portion of the cable. A data transceiver and a video transmitter are preferably employed for transmission of video images, data and commands between the mechanism and a remote control station.Type: GrantFiled: February 9, 1999Date of Patent: January 28, 2003Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the United States National Aeronautics and Space AdministrationInventor: Terence J. Ross
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Patent number: 6487866Abstract: A multi-purpose thermal insulation test apparatus is used for testing insulation materials, or other components. The test apparatus is a fluid boil-off calorimeter system for calibrated measurement of the apparent thermal conductivity (k-value) of a specimen material at a fixed vacuum level. The apparatus includes an inner vessel for receiving a fluid with a normal boiling point below ambient temperature, such as liquid nitrogen, enclosed within a vacuum chamber. A cold mass assembly, including the inner vessel and thermal guards, is suspended from the top of the vacuum chamber. Handling tools attach to the cold mass assembly for convenient manipulation of the assembly and for the installation or wrapping of insulation test materials. Liquid nitrogen is typically supplied to the inner vessel using a fill tube with funnel. A single port through the top of the vacuum chamber facilitates both filling and venting.Type: GrantFiled: July 9, 2001Date of Patent: December 3, 2002Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the National Aeronautics & Space AdministrationInventors: James E. Fesmire, Stanislaw D. Augustynowicz
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Patent number: 6462684Abstract: An improved self-calibrating and self-repairing Data Acquisition System (DAS) for use in inaccessible areas, such as onboard spacecraft, and capable of autonomously performing required system health checks, failure detection. When required, self-repair is implemented utilizing a “spare parts/tool box” system. The available number of spare components primarily depends upon each component's predicted reliability which may be determined using Mean Time Between Failures (MTBF) analysis. Failing or degrading components are electronically removed and disabled to reduce power consumption, before being electronically replaced with spare components.Type: GrantFiled: March 5, 2002Date of Patent: October 8, 2002Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Administrator of the National Aeronautics and Space AdministrationInventors: Pedro J. Medelius, Anthony J. Eckhoff, Lucena R. Angel, Jose M. Perotti
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Patent number: 6452510Abstract: A cabin pressure altitude monitor and warning system provides a warning when a detected cabin pressure altitude has reached a predetermined level. The system is preferably embodied in a portable, pager-sized device that can be carried or worn by an individual. A microprocessor calculates the pressure altitude from signals generated by a calibrated pressure transducer and a temperature sensor that compensates for temperature variations in the signals generated by the pressure transducer. The microprocessor is programmed to generate a warning or alarm if a cabin pressure altitude exceeding a predetermined threshold is detected. Preferably, the microprocessor generates two different types of warning or alarm outputs, a first early warning or alert when a first pressure altitude is exceeded, and a second more serious alarm condition when either a second, higher pressure altitude is exceeded, or when the first pressure altitude has been exceeded for a predetermined period of time.Type: GrantFiled: March 8, 2001Date of Patent: September 17, 2002Assignee: National Aeronautics & Space AdministrationInventor: Jan A. Zysko
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Patent number: 6452373Abstract: A voltage transient recorder can detect lightning induced transient voltages. The recorder detects a lightning induced transient voltage and adjusts input amplifiers to accurately record transient voltage magnitudes. The recorder stores voltage data from numerous monitored channels, or devices. The data is time stamped and can be output in real time, or stored for later retrieval. The transient recorder, in one embodiment, includes an analog-to-digital converter and a voltage threshold detector. When an input voltage exceeds a pre-determined voltage threshold, the recorder stores the incoming voltage magnitude and time of arrival. The recorder also determines if its input amplifier circuits clip the incoming signal or if the incoming signal is too low. If the input data is clipped or too low, the recorder adjusts the gain of the amplifier circuits to accurately acquire subsequent components of the lightning induced transients.Type: GrantFiled: January 8, 2001Date of Patent: September 17, 2002Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the United States National Aeronautics and Space AdministrationInventors: Pedro J. Medelius, Howard J. Simpson