Patents by Inventor Robert D. Powers

Robert D. Powers has filed for patents to protect the following inventions. This listing includes patent applications that are pending as well as patents that have already been granted by the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO).

  • Patent number: 5542287
    Abstract: A portable gas pressure monitor includes a pressure sensor which may be coupled to a pipeline tap downstream of a work area, and first and second comparator circuits receiving the signal from the pressure sensor and comparing the pressure signal with a low pressure set point and a high pressure set point. The two set points define a safe range for the pressure of the gas being monitored. If the sensed gas pressure falls below the low set point one audible signal is generated, and if the sensed pressure exceeds the high set point, a distinctly different audible signal is generated, thus immediately and unequivocally alerting operating personnel of the nature of any alarm. The pressure is also displayed for the operator.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 17, 1994
    Date of Patent: August 6, 1996
    Assignee: Northern Illinois Gas Company
    Inventor: Robert D. Powers
  • Patent number: 5381136
    Abstract: A remote logger unit monitors various operating parameters of a distribution line, or transmission system, such as pressure, temperature and flow such as for natural gas, water or oil, and alerts a central controller via an RF link when predetermined operating limits as determined by the logger unit are exceeded. A plurality of such remote logger units may be employed along the length of the distribution line for monitoring the complete system, with the reports of more distant logger units routed to the central controller via closer logger units. Each logger unit is passive in operation, autonomous and entirely independent of the central controller, and also provides routine operation data to the central controller when prompted, or at designated time intervals. The reported data includes the identity of the logger unit, the nature of the data or alert, and the time and date of the report.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 19, 1993
    Date of Patent: January 10, 1995
    Assignee: Northern Illinois Gas Company
    Inventors: Robert D. Powers, Harold L. Ryterski