With Indicator, Register, Recorder, Alarm Or Inspection Means Patents (Class 137/551)
  • Patent number: 8474474
    Abstract: A method of diagnosing pressure boundary integrity of a control includes choosing a control valve having a valve body, determining a velocity profile within the control valve, choosing an area of the velocity profile, choosing a surface on an exterior of the valve body at or adjacent to the area, forming a pad on the exterior surface overlying the point, applying a testing device to the pad, and measuring a reference thickness of a wall of the valve body through the pad using the testing device. The method further includes applying the testing device to the pad at a time subsequent to measurement of the reference thickness, measuring a first thickness, and comparing the first thickness to the reference thickness. The comparison of the first thickness to the reference thickness can be used to calculate the amount of valve body wall lost during using and the remaining life of the control valve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 10, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 2, 2013
    Assignee: Fisher Controls International LLC
    Inventor: Galen Dale Wilke
  • Patent number: 8475550
    Abstract: A method for injecting a chemical, such as an odorant, from a chemical supply into a fluid-containing system such as a natural gas or an LPG pipeline. A tank of odorant is maintained at a pressure above ambient, but below pipeline pressure. An injection conduit communicates the odorant tank with the pipeline. A hydraulic pressure booster is located in the injection conduit for pressurizing the chemical to a pressure above that of the pipeline. Flow-control apparatus located within the injection conduit for metering chemical to be injected into the pipeline is either (a) drip-style metering valve adjustable between a drop-wise setting and a steady-flow setting or (b) a pair of valves one of which is a flow valve allowing larger volumes to be injected and the other which is a drop-wise flow valve for metering smaller volumes of the chemical.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 13, 2012
    Date of Patent: July 2, 2013
    Assignee: Sentry Equipment Corp.
    Inventor: Mark Zeck
  • Publication number: 20130153061
    Abstract: An apparatus includes means for providing one-way degassing valves to be installed on corresponding containers; means for placing a viscous liquid in each of the plurality of one-way degassing valves to provide a corresponding plurality of installable one-way degassing valves; means for capturing an image of at least a portion of at least some of the plurality of installable one-way degassing valves; and control means for automatically and non-destructively determining for the at least some of the plurality of installable one-way degassing valves, prior to installation on the corresponding containers, by using the image, whether the viscous liquid has been properly placed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 7, 2013
    Publication date: June 20, 2013
    Inventors: Arthur A. Sagy, Julio A. Gonzalez
  • Publication number: 20130153060
    Abstract: A gas monitoring and oxygen supply control system, including a flame-proof and explosion proof housing; a gas monitoring sensor system enclosed in said housing, said sensor system including a sensor controller, a plurality of gas sensors, and a CPU; air sampling pipes in fluid communication with said gas sensors and with the atmospheres to be sampled; input sampling ports disposed on said air sampling pipes and exposed to the atmospheres to be sampled; at least one exhaust pipe for venting gases to a select atmosphere outside said housing; flame-proof port assemblies disposed through a wall of said housing separating said sensor system from an outside atmosphere and through which said air sampling pipes and said exhaust pipe are disposed; at least one pump operatively connected to said air sampling pipes so as to provide both suction and exhaust, said pump electronically connected to and controlled by said CPU; a plurality of valves disposed on said air sampling pipes and electronically coupled to and control
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 17, 2012
    Publication date: June 20, 2013
    Applicant: VENTURE CORPORATION LIMITED
    Inventor: VENTURE CORPORATION LIMITED
  • Publication number: 20130153035
    Abstract: A gas valve assembly may include an electronic valve controller secured relative to a valve body. The electronic controller may be configured to count each operational cycle of the gas valve and maintain a cumulative count of the number of operational cycles experienced by the gas valve in a memory, such as a non-volatile memory. In some cases, the non-volatile memory may also store one or more operational cycle threshold values that may be retrieved and compared to the cumulative count of the number of operational cycles experienced by the gas valve. In some instances, where the cumulative count of the number of operational cycles experienced by the gas valve meets and/or exceeds the threshold number of operational cycles, the gas valve may be prevented from opening.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 15, 2011
    Publication date: June 20, 2013
    Applicant: HONEYWELL INTERNATIONAL INC.
    Inventors: Gregory Young, David Kucera, Donald J. Kasprzyk
  • Patent number: 8464837
    Abstract: The invention relates to a device for lubrication of a work vehicle, which device includes: a tank (1) for storage of lubricant; a number of delivery points (8a-g) at which lubricant is supplied to the tools of the work vehicle or other parts that need to be lubricated; a distribution block (5) including a number of branching points (6a-g) that all are connected to a delivery point (8a-g); a pump (2) for delivering lubricant from the tank (1) to the distribution block (5) and further on to the delivery points (8a-g); a control system (3), for regulating the supply of lubricant.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 19, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 18, 2013
    Assignee: Atlas Copco Rock Drills AB
    Inventors: Ulrik Algulin, Christer Andersson
  • Publication number: 20130146793
    Abstract: Apparatuses for providing a visual indication outside a blowout preventer (BOP) relative to a position of ram blocks inside the BOP, and methods of adding such apparatuses to existing blowout preventers are provided. An apparatus has an indicator rod, a detectable portion and a sealing assembly. The indicator rod has an end extending outside an end cap of the BOP, and is configured to engage with a tail rod of a ram block of the BOP, and to switch between a first position when the BOP is in a close state, and a second position when the BOP is in an open state. The detectable portion is located outside the end cap and is configured to provide a visual indication relative to a current position of the indicator rod. The sealing assembly is configured to seal a space inside the end cap from an environment in which the BOP operates.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 13, 2011
    Publication date: June 13, 2013
    Applicant: HYDRIL USA MANUFACTURING LLC
    Inventor: Ryan Cheaney GUSTAFSON
  • Publication number: 20130146160
    Abstract: An electronic user interface for use with a water delivery device, such as a faucet. The user interface illustratively includes a plurality of bonded layers thermally formed into a multi-dimensional shape. The layers may include a conductive layer, a graphics layer, and a protective layer. A structural support may be molded to a rear of the conductive layer.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 4, 2013
    Publication date: June 13, 2013
    Applicant: MASCO CORPORATION OF INDIANA
    Inventor: Masco Corporation of Indiana
  • Publication number: 20130139892
    Abstract: A method and a device used to store a product inside a receptacle. The product includes a first liquid component and at least a second component. Inside the receptacle, the product is circulated by a conveying apparatus which is positioned in the region of a tubular guide element arranged inside a receptacle. At least one component of the product fed to the receptacle flows first into an internal space of the guide element.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 5, 2011
    Publication date: June 6, 2013
    Applicant: SIG TECHNOLOGY AG
    Inventors: Franz-Willi Spelten, Bernd Kluth
  • Publication number: 20130139897
    Abstract: The present disclosure provides a system and method for safely charging hydrogen using real-time hydrogen tank expansion data. The system includes an expansion measurement unit, a vehicle-side control unit, a charging station-side control unit, and a wireless communication unit. The expansion measurement unit is disposed on a hydrogen tank of the vehicle, and measures the degree of expansion of the hydrogen tank and generates a corresponding output signal. The vehicle-side control unit converts the output signal into data wireless output signal. The charging station-side control unit stops hydrogen replenishment by a hydrogen charger when the wireless output signal indicates an unsafe degree of tank expansion based. The wireless communication unit is provided to perform wireless data communication between the vehicle-side control unit and the charging-side control unit.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 12, 2012
    Publication date: June 6, 2013
    Applicants: KIA MOTORS CORPORATION, HYUNDAI MOTOR COMPANY
    Inventors: Sang Hyun Kim, Ki Ho Hwang, Ji Hyun Shim
  • Patent number: 8456312
    Abstract: A domestic water leak and humidity detection and control apparatus to monitor and detect water leaks and to alert a user by an aural buzzer and by illuminated green, red, or yellow LEDs of an operative state of the apparatus incorporates one or more sensor sets, each sensor set having one or more leak detectors connected to a central controller; the central controller having for each sensor set a respective comparator set and a respective LED set, and the central controller connected to and controlling the aural buzzer and controlling a water valve to control water leaks originating from a domestic water supply by electrically controlling the water valve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 22, 2010
    Date of Patent: June 4, 2013
    Inventor: Edward C. Wofford
  • Patent number: 8453674
    Abstract: According to aspects described herein, there is disclosed a method of and system for indicating a fault associated with a fluid valve moveable between an open and a closed operative position. The method and system compare a valve state indicator to a valve last command, wherein the valve state indicator represents a detected operative position of the valve and the valve last command being an operative command sent to the fluid valve. The method and system also initiate a fault indication after a predetermined time delay relative to the valve last command being sent and when the valve state indicator does not match the valve last command. After the time delay a fault indication can be initiated immediately upon receipt of a different valve state indicator.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 12, 2010
    Date of Patent: June 4, 2013
    Assignee: Target Rock Division of Curtiss-Wright FLow Control Corporation
    Inventors: Kevin Gerard Cordle, John Behm
  • Publication number: 20130133748
    Abstract: A method for determining the actual start of injection is performed by an actuating device for a piezo fuel injection valve and includes the following steps. First, a test injection is carried out with such a short actuation duration that a start of shut-off takes place at a time so early that the nozzle needle does not reach the open end position. Said time is predefined by the actuation and is therefore precisely known. Next, the closing time of the nozzle needle is then determined by measurement and evaluation of an electrical variable of the piezo direct drive. Once the closing time and the time of the start of shut-off are known, the actual start of injection is calculated back from the closing time via the start of shut-off. This permits an adequately precise determination of the actual injection quantity in almost every operating state of the internal combustion engine.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 4, 2011
    Publication date: May 30, 2013
    Inventors: Steffen Lehner, Manfred Kramel, Hans-Jörg Wiehoff, Nicolas Nozeran, Peter Matthias Russe
  • Patent number: 8448664
    Abstract: A fluid control device connected to a water pipe and having a mini water turbine and electrical generator combination for generating electricity by taking advantage of the water flow. The electricity is supplied to a temperature measurement member for measuring temperature of the water flowing through the device. The temperature in the form of electrical signal is sent to an LCD panel and circuit assembly for showing so as to visually alert a person using the tap water.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 16, 2011
    Date of Patent: May 28, 2013
    Assignee: Fujian Xihe Sanitary Ware Technology Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Xiaofa Lin, Xiaoshan Lin
  • Publication number: 20130118614
    Abstract: A monitoring apparatus for monitoring the temperature of a body, the apparatus having a housing defining a volume of air exposed to the body, a temperature sensor being located within the volume of air at a position remote from the body whereby the temperature of the body can be determined. In one embodiment the housing defines a substantially vertically arranged flue exposed at its lower end to the body, the temperature sensor being located within the flue, at least one air inlet being provided in the flue positioned below the temperature sensor, at least one air outlet being provided in the flue positioned above the temperature sensor, whereby the body, when heated, may initiate a rising column of air within the flue due to convection when the temperature of the body is greater than the ambient temperature, the temperature sensor being exposed to said rising column of air.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 26, 2011
    Publication date: May 16, 2013
    Inventor: Kenneth Mcfeeters
  • Publication number: 20130112295
    Abstract: A multiply-redundant system that prevents a driver from starting and/or moving a vehicle if a compressed natural gas fill system is not correctly and completely disconnected from the vehicle. One or more sensors in combination with one or more optional microswitches combine to lock-out the vehicle's ignition or otherwise prevent it from starting and/or moving. For different levels of safety, different combinations of sensors can be used with the lowest level having a single proximity sensor sensing the presence or absence of a high-pressure fill hose. The highest level of safety being achieved by having separate proximity sensors on the fuel fill hose fitting, the gas cap cover and a manual safety valve along with a redundant microswitch. An optional override that may be restricted as to the number of times it can be used can allow starting with a faulty sensor in order to allow maintenance.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 3, 2012
    Publication date: May 9, 2013
    Inventor: Daniel McNicholas
  • Publication number: 20130104306
    Abstract: A method of controlling a liquid movement system, such as a pool system. The method includes receiving a maximum time that an auxiliary load is to operate, receiving a minimum pump speed of a pump system that pumps a liquid through the auxiliary load, monitoring the time that an auxiliary load has been in operation, monitoring the pump speed of a pump system that pumps a liquid through the auxiliary load, and deactivating the auxiliary load if the maximum time or minimum pump speed has been met. Also disclosed are a pool system and a controller for controlling the pool system.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 31, 2011
    Publication date: May 2, 2013
    Inventor: Marc C. McKinzie
  • Publication number: 20130098478
    Abstract: Disclosed is a fire hose coupling apparatus for self powered lighting of an area where a fire fighter is engaged in fires suppression with a fire hose, and for providing real time environmental data to fire fighters.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 19, 2011
    Publication date: April 25, 2013
    Inventors: Kenneth G. Kling, Arthur E. Brown
  • Publication number: 20130098450
    Abstract: Methods, devices, and systems for laundry fluid delivery are disclosed. A laundry fluid delivery controller includes a user interface configured to receive input from a user regarding use of a laundry fluid in a washing machine, a pump configured to pump the laundry fluid from a fluid reservoir to the washing machine, and processing circuitry configured to control the pump in response to the user input and to operate independent of any control circuitry of the washing machine, the control circuitry being configured to control operation of the washing machine.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 20, 2011
    Publication date: April 25, 2013
    Inventor: Dustin Frantz
  • Publication number: 20130092264
    Abstract: The flow rate controller controlling a flow rate of gas supplied through a gas passage includes: a main gas pipe; a flow rate detecting unit detecting the flow rate of gas supplied through the main gas pipe and outputting a flow rate signal; a flow rate control valve mechanism controlling a flow rate; a conversion data storage unit storing a plurality of pieces of conversion data corresponding to a plurality of gaseous species, to indicate a relationship between a flow rate instruction signal input from outside and a target flow rate; and a flow rate control main body which selects the corresponding conversion data from the conversion data based on a gaseous species selection signal input from outside, calculates the target flow rate based on the flow rate instruction signal, and controls the flow rate control valve mechanism based on the target flow rate and the flow rate signal.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 12, 2012
    Publication date: April 18, 2013
    Applicant: TOKYO ELECTRON LIMITED
    Inventor: TOKYO ELECTRON LIMITED
  • Publication number: 20130096757
    Abstract: The leakage diagnosis that carries out a leakage diagnosis on the basis of an internal pressure state of an airtight compartment by emitting gas from the compartment via a canister during a stop of the internal combustion engine includes; detecting a physical quantity that reflects a fuel adsorption state of the canister; and repeating the leakage diagnosis within the number of times of the leakage diagnosis, limited on the basis of the detected physical quantity. The compartment is formed in an evaporative fuel processing mechanism for an internal combustion engine. The evaporative fuel processing mechanism includes a fuel tank.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 12, 2012
    Publication date: April 18, 2013
    Inventors: Keita Fukui, Ryo Kondo, Yoshihisa Oda
  • Publication number: 20130087223
    Abstract: A method of detecting failure of a two-stage servo-valve in which the power-controlling movable member is connected to the rotor of a torque motor of a pilot stage by mechanical feedback. A malfunction signal is generated in response to detecting that the rotor of the torque motor has engaged a stop. The invention also provides a servo-valve including means for implementing such a method.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 9, 2012
    Publication date: April 11, 2013
    Applicant: IN-LHC
    Inventor: IN-LHC
  • Publication number: 20130081716
    Abstract: A hydraulic apparatus control system comprises a plurality of directional control valves (12, 34, 56). Each valves serves to selectively convey pressurised fluid to a hydraulic consumer (18, 20, 22) which is detachably connected to a respective hydraulic output (71-76). A plurality of user interface devices control the valves. A terminal (50) comprises a display (52) and user input means (54, 56, 58). The display displays a graphic (61-66) associated with each hydraulic output. Each graphic includes a displayed user-definable label.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 28, 2012
    Publication date: April 4, 2013
    Applicant: AGCO SA
    Inventor: AGCO SA
  • Publication number: 20130074938
    Abstract: A faucet includes a faucet body, a switch unit and a monitoring device. The switch unit is coupled rotatably to the faucet body. The monitoring device is mounted to the switch unit and includes an angle detector, a microprocessor and an alert unit. The angle detector is for detecting angular rotation of the switch unit, and is for generating angle information. The microprocessor is for receiving the angle information, for recording a cumulative time period within which the switch unit is in an open state, and for calculating an outflow value accordingly. The microprocessor generates an alert signal for the alert unit upon determining that the outflow value has reached a predetermined threshold.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 6, 2012
    Publication date: March 28, 2013
    Inventors: Jui-Chien Chen, Jui-Ching Chen
  • Publication number: 20130062283
    Abstract: The present invention relates to an apparatus for the regulation of at least one filtration value in a machine for the treatment of a medical fluid, in particular in a blood treatment machine, having at least one centrifugal pumping means, to a hemodialysis machine and to a method and to a use therefor.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 17, 2011
    Publication date: March 14, 2013
    Applicant: Fresenius Medical Care Deutschland GmbH
    Inventors: Arne Peters, Alexander Heide, Christoph Wiktor
  • Publication number: 20130048113
    Abstract: A sea filtration system is provided for preventing users to dispose improper waste into sewage systems. In one embodiment, a sea filtration system includes a sewage system, a camera mounted outside a toilet room, wherein the camera is configured to capture a wrongful act by the user by capturing a face of a user after the user leaving the toilet room when industrial waste is detected, a toilet connecting to the sewage system, a computer server connecting to the toilet, a compartment in the toilet, when flushed, hold on to the industrial waste without flushing into the sewage system, a blockage sensor, an industrial waste sensor configured to detect if industrial waste is being flushed, and a toxic waste sensor configured to detect if toxic waste is being flushed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 25, 2011
    Publication date: February 28, 2013
    Inventor: MAN LOK
  • Publication number: 20130048114
    Abstract: A hydronic distribution system includes self-regulating valves networked together and operable to share valve temperature and valve position information with a microprocessor or other type of controller. The microprocessor runs one or more algorithms that process the temperatures and positions of the valves and then computes a desired speed for one or more variable speed pumps within the system. Controlling the pumps to operate at the desired speed and still maintain the correct amount of process fluid flow needed by the system reduces the overall energy use of the hydronic distribution system, saves on the operational lives of the pumps, and increases system efficiency.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 26, 2011
    Publication date: February 28, 2013
    Applicant: OPTIMUM ENERGY, LLC
    Inventors: Nathan F. ROTHMAN, Ian Dempster
  • Publication number: 20130048082
    Abstract: A rapid alternating process system and method of operating a rapid alternating process system includes a rapid alternating process chamber, a plurality of process gas sources coupled to the rapid alternating process chamber, wherein each one of the plurality of process gas sources includes a corresponding process gas source flow controller, a bias signal source coupled to the rapid alternating process chamber, a process gas detector coupled to the rapid alternating process chamber, a rapid alternating process chamber controller coupled to the rapid alternating process chamber, the bias signal source, the process gas detector and the plurality of process gas sources, the rapid alternating process chamber controller including logic for initiating a first rapid alternating process phase including: logic for inputting a first process gas into a rapid alternating process chamber, logic for detecting the first process gas in the rapid alternating process chamber, and logic for applying a corresponding first phase b
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 22, 2011
    Publication date: February 28, 2013
    Inventors: Mirzafer Abatchev, Bradley Howard, Armen Kirakosian
  • Publication number: 20130037119
    Abstract: A closed-loop system includes a pump driving a fluid through a series of conduits. A control system is included that minimizes pressure fluctuations in a bootstrap reservoir to maintain a desired minimum pressure at the pump inlet. Moreover, the control system reduces a maximum system pressure by reducing the magnitude of pressure fluctuations encountered by the bootstrap reservoir.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 12, 2011
    Publication date: February 14, 2013
    Inventor: Kurt J. Doughty
  • Publication number: 20130037138
    Abstract: A system for a fluid tank for storing a urea solution in a motor vehicle, the system including a first float having a first density and a second float having a second density, the first and second floats being movably arranged on a guide in the fluid tank, the first density is less than a density of the urea solution at a reference temperature but greater than a density of water at the reference temperature, and the second density is less than the density of water at the reference temperature. The system further includes a control system configured to receive signals indicative of a level of the floats, and to generate an anomaly signal in response to detecting sinking of the first float and floatation of the second float.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 8, 2010
    Publication date: February 14, 2013
    Applicant: INERGY AUTOMOTIVE SYSTEMS RESEARCH (Societe Anonyme)
    Inventor: Philippe Lucien Valmy Georis
  • Publication number: 20130036815
    Abstract: The present invention discloses a beverage machine (1) comprising a tank (2), which holds a liquid for preparing a beverage, and a dispenser (7), to which the tank is connectable, wherein the tank (2) comprises a valve (8); the dispenser comprises an opening (9) for receiving the valve in connection of the tank on the dispenser; at least one ultrasonic transceiver (3) is disposed in the dispenser (7) or tank (2), the ultrasonic transceiver being designed to emit and receive ultrasonic waves (4a, 4b) in the liquid, in order to determine the distance (d) from the transceiver to the liquid level (5), wherein it further comprises a control unit (6), which is connected to the ultrasonic transceiver (3) which is adapted to determine the distance (d) changing with time and as a result the volume (V) of the liquid flowing out of the tank.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 18, 2011
    Publication date: February 14, 2013
    Applicant: NESTEC S.A.
    Inventors: Raphael Bernhardsgruetter, Ralph Kugler, Yann Epars, HansPeter Pleisch, Vincent Martin
  • Publication number: 20130032213
    Abstract: An exemplary paint material switching path includes first and second valve means each having an inlet and an outlet, and a hollow cylindrical intermediate piece arranged between the outlet of the first valve means and the inlet of the second valve means. The inlet of the first valve means is configured to be connected to a continuously pressurised paint material supply, and a manifold channel which is configured to be pressurised and into which the outlet of the second valve means opens. Furthermore, means are provided for measuring the pressure prevailing in the hollow cylindrical intermediate piece and an evaluation device for detecting leaks in at least one of the two valve means based on the measured pressure with respect to time for a given pressure difference between the inlet of the first valve means and the outlet of the second valve means at the beginning of the leak detection.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 2, 2012
    Publication date: February 7, 2013
    Applicant: ABB Technology AG
    Inventor: Gunter BÖRNER
  • Publication number: 20130032228
    Abstract: A household tap water monitor includes a water meter, an electrical control valve, a single chip micyoco, an LCD, an electrical source circuit, a photoelectric detector connected to a first input port of the SCM, a reset switch connected to a second input port of the SCM and a keyboard connected to a third input port of the SCM. The water meter and the electrical control valve are connected in series between a tap water pipe and a main tap water inlet pipe. A control port of the electrical control valve is connected to a first output port of the SCM, and the LCD is connected to a second output port of the SCM. The photoelectric detector is used for monitoring the rotation of a small impeller in the water meter. The electrical source circuit is used to supply electricity for the components mentioned above.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 19, 2011
    Publication date: February 7, 2013
    Inventor: Lianhua Mao
  • Patent number: 8365765
    Abstract: A flow restriction member having a cylindrical body and two ends, a two-faced flange disposed radially about the body, and a hub formed by the outer surface of the body not otherwise disposed by the two-faced flange. The flow restriction member further includes a first conically-shaped circular torus opening disposed on one end of the body, the torus opening progressively reducing in cross-sectional area along the longitudinal axis into the body, a second conically-shaped circular torus opening disposed on the other end of the body, the torus opening progressively reducing in cross-sectional area along the longitudinal axis into the body, and a sill opening disposed between the first and the second torus openings, the sill opening of constant cross-sectional area along the longitudinal axis of the body. In one example, a handle disposed radially from the two-faced flange and an RFID tag disposed within the handle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 10, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 5, 2013
    Inventor: Joel David Bell
  • Publication number: 20130025714
    Abstract: The present invention provides a hand sanitizer system that includes a proximity detector, a dispensing system and alarm feature, and is operative to provide an indication corresponding to a person in proximity of the system failing to dispense antiseptic or other solution from the dispenser within a predetermined period of time after moving within a predetermined range of the detector.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 7, 2011
    Publication date: January 31, 2013
    Inventor: Christopher Hermann
  • Publication number: 20130014839
    Abstract: A security valve having a body, a fluid control device, and an internal locking structure. The internal locking structure allows for partial movement of the valve before locking the fluid control device in place. A piping system based on the valve.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 15, 2011
    Publication date: January 17, 2013
    Inventors: Glen Calla, Steven Calla
  • Publication number: 20130014840
    Abstract: A pipe (50) that makes it possible to channel pressurized air into an aircraft, includes an inner tube (52), an outer tube (54) that is essentially coaxial to the inner tube (52), an insulating material (56) that is inserted between the two tubes (52, 54) and that is made of a heat-insulating and gas-porous material, and a leak detection device (70), characterized in that the leak detection device (70) is arranged at least in part between the inner tube (52) and the outer tube (54) and in that at least at one end (60), the detection device follows a concentric trajectory (84) to the inner tube (52).
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 13, 2012
    Publication date: January 17, 2013
    Applicants: AIRBUS OPERATIONS GMBH, AIRBUS OPERATIONS SAS
    Inventors: Gérard MILLET, Xavier BERNARD, Matthias NOECKER
  • Publication number: 20130008518
    Abstract: A water supply control system for use with a fire hydrant comprises a four-way valve assembly having a first inlet port for coupling to a nozzle of the fire hydrant via a fire hose, the four-way valve assembly operable to selectively open and close the inlet and outlet ports according to an operating mode of the four-way valve assembly, a stable and sturdy platform substantially supporting the weight of the four-way valve assembly, a flexible tether strap secured to the platform at a first end and having a fastener at a second end for releasably coupling to the fire hydrant, a status indicator mounted on the four-way valve assembly operable to provide a visual indication of the operation mode of the four-way valve assembly, and a scene light mounted on the four-way assembly operable to provide high-intensity illumination.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 6, 2011
    Publication date: January 10, 2013
    Applicant: JNT Link, LLC
    Inventors: John E. McLoughlin, Neocles G. Athanasiades, Kiam Meng Toh
  • Publication number: 20130008361
    Abstract: A system for fertilizing a large area. The system may include a fluid bar configured to be towed by a tractor. The fluid bar may include a fluid passageway with at least one aperture and a sensor or meter in communication with the aperture. The aperture may be configured to receive a hose or other attachment distributing fluid to the ground. The system may include a tank, a pump, pump controller and a filter. The pump flow rate and the outlet flow rate may be displayed on monitoring equipment located within a cab of the tractor. The pump controller may be used by the farmer to variably adjust the fluid pressure in each aperture and consequently adjust the flow pressure of fertilizer added to the ground.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 2, 2012
    Publication date: January 10, 2013
    Applicant: Schaffert Manufacturing Company, Inc.
    Inventors: Ramiro Trevino, Matthew O'Donnell, Brian O'Donnell
  • Publication number: 20130008533
    Abstract: An apparatus using fuel gas is provided, ensuring charge amount of a battery. The apparatus includes battery, fuel gas reservoir unit, fuel lid, open/close detection unit for detecting open/close state of fuel lid, fuel gas condition detection unit for detecting pressure and/or temperature being condition of fuel gas reserved in the fuel gas reservoir unit, communication unit for communication with fuel gas supply device, and control unit for, upon reception of signal notifying that fuel lid is in open state from open/close detection unit, performing dispensing communication to notify the fuel gas supply device, via communication unit, of condition of fuel gas having been input from fuel gas condition detection unit. The control unit stops dispensing communication when control unit has determined, according to signal received from open/close detection unit that predetermined time has elapsed with the fuel lid remaining in open state after starting dispensing communication.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 5, 2012
    Publication date: January 10, 2013
    Applicant: HONDA MOTOR CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Koichi KATO, Koichi TAKAKU, Taneaki MIURA, Hiroyasu OZAKI, Saneto ASANO
  • Patent number: 8349038
    Abstract: A system is shown for injecting a chemical, such as an odorant, from a chemical supply into a fluid containing system such as a natural gas pipeline or an LPG pipeline. A tank of odorant is maintained at a pressure above ambient, but below the pressure of the pipeline. An injection conduit communicates the odorant tank with the pipeline. A hydraulic pressure booster is located in the injection conduit for pressurizing the chemical to a pressure above that of the pipeline, the hydraulic booster having a first side which communicates with the chemical in the injection conduit and another, isolated side which is exposed to hydraulic pressure but which is isolated from the chemical being injected. A flow control valve may be located within the injection conduit for metering chemical to be injected into the pipeline.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 19, 2009
    Date of Patent: January 8, 2013
    Assignee: Sentry Equipment Corp.
    Inventor: Mark Zeck
  • Publication number: 20130000388
    Abstract: A multilayer structure includes: a microfluidic circuit, delimited at least in part by a first sealing structure; a fluid-tight chamber delimited in part by a second sealing structure and in part by the first sealing structure, which is arranged in the fluid-tight chamber and is configured to provide a signal indicative of a leakage between the microfluidic circuit and the fluid-tight chamber.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 27, 2012
    Publication date: January 3, 2013
    Applicant: STMICROELECTRONICS S.R.L.
    Inventors: Giorgio Allegato, Matteo Perletti, Laura Oggioni, Francesco Tripodi
  • Publication number: 20130000730
    Abstract: An engine air shutoff valve system with an improved sensor that facilitates a position detection of the shutoff valve is disclosed. The air shutoff valve system may include a shutoff valve, an indicator, and at least one solid-state proximity sensor. The shutoff valve is moveable between an open and closed position. The indicator is operatively coupled to the shutoff valve. The indicator is movable between a normal state and a tripped state in respective correspondence with the open and closed positions of the shutoff valve. At least one solid-state proximity sensor can be configured to detect when the indicator is in the tripped state.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 30, 2011
    Publication date: January 3, 2013
    Applicant: Caterpillar Inc.
    Inventors: Travis S. Johnson, Matthew J. Miller, Michael E. Kenning, Jason M. Brown, Dale E. Koekenberg
  • Publication number: 20120319857
    Abstract: A sensor for sensing the integrity of a pressure relief device, along with associated systems and methods, are disclosed. The sensor may sense a designed area of weakness of a pressure relief device, such as an explosion vent or rupture disk. A monitor may monitor a signal from the sensor, which may be transmitted between the sensor and monitor by way of a sensor loop. In response to a change in the designed area of weakness, the signal from the sensor may be altered or interrupted, indicating that the designed area of weakness has changed. The signal from the sensor may be, for example, an electrical signal, optical signal, or an air flow in a pneumatic loop.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 30, 2010
    Publication date: December 20, 2012
    Inventors: Geof Brazier, John Tomasko, Liam Fitzgerald, Stephen Farwell, Hughie Leahy
  • Publication number: 20120323712
    Abstract: A transaction product includes a substantially rigid housing, a pump assembly, and an account identifier. The substantially rigid housing defines a substantially liquid-tight reservoir, an outflow aperture, and an external surface. The substantially liquid-tight reservoir is configured to maintain a liquid therein. The pump assembly is enclosed within the substantially rigid housing and is in communication with the substantially liquid-tight reservoir and the outflow aperture. The pump assembly is configured to move liquid from the substantially liquid-tight reservoir, through the pump assembly, and out the outflow aperture and into an external environment surrounding the substantially rigid housing. The account identifier is statically connected to the external surface of the substantially rigid housing and links the substantially rigid housing to at least one of an account and a record and is machine readable by a point-of-sale terminal.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 11, 2011
    Publication date: December 20, 2012
    Applicant: TARGET BRANDS, INC.
    Inventors: Brian R. HOLT, Jesse GADOLA, Rafael SORIANO, Donald C. CLARK
  • Publication number: 20120305084
    Abstract: A valve meter device, assembly, and method is disclosed including a housing defining at least one inlet opening and at least one outlet opening and a channel connecting the openings, the at least one inlet opening having an inlet end and the at least one outlet opening having an outlet end; a water meter positioned in the channel, the water meter configured to monitor a flow of water through the valve meter device; and a valve in communication with the channel and configured to control the flow of water through the valve meter device. In some embodiments, a linear distance exists between the inlet end and the outlet end, the linear distance being no greater than a standard water meter lay-length.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 31, 2011
    Publication date: December 6, 2012
    Applicant: MUELLER INTERNATIONAL, LLC
    Inventors: Marty Scott Ball, Scott Aron Linkel
  • Publication number: 20120298224
    Abstract: A cooling water usage predictor predicts, for a respective prescribed prediction cycle T1, a usage of cooling water in a prescribed prediction target period T2, a constrained running condition predictor takes the predicted usage of cooling water as a basis to predict a required running condition of a pump system in the prediction target period T2 meeting a prescribed constraint condition, an energy consumption calculator takes the predicted running condition of the pump system as a basis to calculate a quantity of energy to be consumed, an optimizer determines an optimal quantity of energy to be consumed among a plurality of quantities of energy to be consumed under changed running conditions of the pump system, and a pump system running controller controls a running of the pump system having as a target value therefore a running condition of the pump system requiring the optimal quantity of energy to be consumed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 29, 2010
    Publication date: November 29, 2012
    Applicant: TOSHIBA MITSUBISHI-ELECTRIC INDUSTRIAL SYSTEMS CORPORATION
    Inventors: Hiroyuki Imanari, Mirei Kihara
  • Publication number: 20120298157
    Abstract: A water level sensing apparatus which more precisely senses a level of supplied water, a water supply hose and a washing machine having the same is provided. The water level sensing apparatus includes a main body provided with an inner wall and an outer wall and filled with water supplied to the inside of the inner wall, a plurality of electrodes inserted between the inner wall and the outer wall to be opposite to each other, and a micro-computer to judge a water level in the main body through variation of a capacitance value of the plurality of electrodes. Therethrough, the water level sensing apparatus more directly measures a water level, as compared to the conventional water level sensing apparatus, thus improving precision in water level measurement. Thereby, the water level sensing apparatus prevents unnecessary water supply and reduces energy consumption.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 20, 2012
    Publication date: November 29, 2012
    Applicant: SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Tae Gyoon Noh, Jeong Su Han, Jun hoe Choi, Sang Yeon PYO, Jong Soo Hong
  • Patent number: 8316883
    Abstract: A water faucet providing a digital temperature readout indicating the temperature of the water exiting the faucet is herein disclosed. The faucet provides a switch to change the display between Fahrenheit and Celsius and is powered by a small integral solar cell and an internal battery for periods of low ambient light. The display and corresponding circuitry is mounted inside of a waterproof enclosure which is removably mounted to the faucet spout by locking fasteners. The display is removable and allows for replacement or maintenance should it malfunction or break. During use, an internal thermocouple senses a change in temperature to activate the apparatus, thereby conserving energy. Such features are ideal for measuring the temperature of water used to wash hands or dishes to ensure compliance with health department requirements.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 9, 2010
    Date of Patent: November 27, 2012
    Inventor: Craig Watson
  • Publication number: 20120291893
    Abstract: A register has a narrow and long air blow outlet long in the longitudinal direction and short in the shorter-side direction, and is provided with a front movable louver along the longitudinal direction inside the air blow outlet. The front movable louver has one vertical fin having an annular fin portion at the center. The annular fin portion is formed so as to have a substantially rectangular opening in an air blowing direction in a front view, and has flat plate portions on both side portions. Upper shaft portions are provided on both end portions of the annular fin portion via upper fin portions, and lower shaft portions are provided via lower fin portions. The upper shaft portions and lower shaft portions are supported turnably on bearing portions of fixed walls.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 25, 2010
    Publication date: November 22, 2012
    Applicants: KABUSHIKI KAISHA TOYOTA JIDOSHOKKI, HOWA PLASTICS CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Masaaki Yamamoto, Hidekazu Makimura, Takamitsu Murohashi