Abstract: A computer-implemented method of determining moisture content of a composite structure is provided. The method includes performing a thermal analysis calculation on the composite structure to determine a temporal surface temperature profile of the composite structure based on temporal environmental parameter profiles, wherein the surface temperature profile is determined independently of a moisture content of the composite structure. The method also includes performing a moisture content analysis calculation on the composite structure to determine a moisture content of the composite structure, wherein the moisture content analysis calculation is based on the determined temporal surface temperature profile and a thickness of the composite structure. The thermal analysis calculation is performed iteratively with a first time period and the moisture content analysis calculation is performed iteratively with a second time period that is longer than the first time period.

Abstract: Provided is a method for predicting kinematic viscosity of a fraction of a crude oil to optimize selection of crude oils. The method includes receiving parameters of the crude oil, such as Vacuum Residue yield and Conradson Carbon Residue (CCR), content as an input. The method also includes determining kinematic viscosity of the fraction of the crude oil at a first predetermined temperature based on a first correlation model between the physical parameters of the crude oil and the kinematic viscosity at the first predetermined temperature. The method further includes generating the kinematic viscosity of the fraction of the crude oil at the predetermined temperature based on the first correlation model corresponding to the input. Also provided is a system for predicting kinematic viscosity at a predetermined temperature to optimize crude oil selection. Further provided is a method for estimating an amount of cutter stock for crude oil processing.

Abstract: A control system for a refrigeration circuit having one or more working fluid refrigerant sensors capable of measuring the fluid energy value of the refrigerant along a low side of the refrigeration circuit and regulating the flow of refrigerant to the circuit low side through reference to expected refrigerant fluid energy values.

Abstract: A base (41) includes a plurality of flow channels (33, 34) and detection sections (531, 541) for detecting the flow volumes of fluids flowing in the flow channels (33, 34). In the base (41), a blocking section (57) for blocking heat conduction between the flow channels (33, 34) is provided between the flow channels (33, 34). The blocking section (57) is configured of groove (58) formed in the base (41).

Abstract: The invention relates to a zero heat flux temperature sensing device (100) for sensing a core body temperature of an object (113). The zero heat flux temperature sensing device (100) comprises a layer (107), a first temperature gradient sensor (105), a first heat flux modulator (103) and a heat flux modulator controller (102). The layer (107) has an opposing first side (112) and second side (108). In use the first side (112) is nearest to the object (113). The layer (107) is for obtaining a first temperature difference over the layer (107) in response to a first heat flux in a first direction from the first side (112) to the second side (108). The first temperature gradient sensor (105) senses at the first side (112) of the layer (107) a second temperature difference in a second direction. The second direction extends from a first border of the first side (112) towards a second border of the first side (112).

Abstract: The electronic device comprises a substrate provided with a surface comprising a region of interest, the thermal behavior of which is to be monitored, and a system for detecting hot spots located in the region of interest. The system for detecting hot spots comprises at least three separate heat flow meters arranged on the surface of the substrate outside of the region of interest.

Abstract: A tunable tunnel junction thermometry circuit includes a variable width tunnel junction between a test object and a probe. The junction width is varied and a change in thermovoltage across the junction with respect to the change in distance across the junction is determined. Also, a change in biased current with respect to a change in distance across the junction is determined. A temperature gradient across the junction is determined based on a mathematical relationship between the temperature gradient, the change in thermovoltage with respect to distance and the change in biased current with respect to distance. Thermovoltage may be measured by nullifying a thermoelectric tunneling current with an applied voltage supply level. A piezoelectric actuator may modulate the probe, and thus the junction width, to vary thermovoltage and biased current across the junction. Lock-in amplifiers measure the derivatives of the thermovoltage and biased current modulated by varying junction width.

Abstract: The invention relates to a food cooking control method and device. The method includes the following steps in which: at least one temperature detection device is inserted into a food; a final equilibrium temperature is defined; the detection device is positioned inside the food in a pre-determined detection zone so that a temperature (TC) can be obtained at all times during cooking; the TC temperature data obtained are processed using the detection device; the temperature of the surface through which the food receives heat (TP) is determined and processed and the variation in temperature TC is evaluated at least to the first derivative. The device includes a detection device intended to be inserted into the food, a device for determining the thickness of the food and a device for inserting the detection device into the food to a pre-determined depth.

Abstract: Thermal transfer measurements are useful for measuring either a mass flow rate or the specific heat of a fluid. Thermoelectric devices are desirable for this because of their ability to simultaneously heat one portion of the sensor while cooling another. However, the internal thermal resistance of thermoelectric devices has limited the accuracy of thermoelectric thermal transfer sensors. This problem is solved by using separate temperature sensors to measure selected temperature differences established by the thermoelectric portion of a thermal transfer sensor.

Abstract: The novel method and device provide for process control—closed-loop control or open-loop control—for a thermal system with an obstruction-curved and/or thick-walled component through which a medium flows. The wall temperatures of the component are detected, the heat flux density of the heat flux from the medium into the wall of the component is determined, the respective heat transmission coefficient is determined, using the wall temperatures. The heat flux density, and the heat transmission coefficient thus determined are used to influence the medium properties, with the heat stresses in the component being taken into account.

Abstract: A system and method of detecting recirculation within a rack server system. A heat transfer model is constructed for a rack server system. A recirculation zone is specified, and hypothetical recirculation temperatures are input at the recirculation zone. The heat transfer model predicts temperatures elsewhere in the rack severe system, and a predicted temperature profile is computed. Actual temperatures in the rack server system are sensed, and an actual temperature profile is also generated. The actual temperature profile is compared with the predicted temperature profile to detect potential recirculation.

Abstract: A heat-conducting element having known length D is disposed at a first end in a first region having a first temperature T1 to be inferred. The second end of the element is disposed in a second region having a measureable second temperature T2 different from the first temperature. The element is well-insulated between the first and second regions. Heat flows along the element from the higher temperature region to the lower temperature region, and the temperature of the element at any point along the element is proportional to the temperature difference between the two regions and the distance from either one of the regions. By measuring the second temperature and also a third temperature T3 at a point along the element, and knowing accurately the position Dn of that point with respect to the first and second ends of the element, the first temperature can be inferred by proportionality.

Abstract: A method and device for measuring thermoelectric characteristics of a combinatorial sample. The method and device are useful for rapid sample evaluation, the investigation of thermoelectric materials, and the carrier control of semiconductors. The device includes combinatorial samples patterned with a metal mask, a pair of sample holders for applying a small temperature gradient to the sample, a thermocouple for measuring the temperature gradient, and a probe pin array in contact with the sample.

Abstract: According to one embodiment of the invention, a method includes providing a conduit having a fluid flowing therethrough, disposing a plurality of temperature measurement devices inside a wall of the conduit, positioning at least some of the temperature measurement devices proximate an inside surface of the wall of the conduit, positioning at least some of the temperature measurement devices at different radial positions at the same circumferential location within the wall, measuring a plurality of temperatures of the wall with respective ones of the temperature measurement devices to obtain a three-dimensional temperature topology of the wall, determining the temperature dependent thermal conductivity of the conduit, and determining a multi-dimensional thermal characteristic of the inside surface of the wall of the conduit based on extrapolation of the three-dimensional temperature topology and the temperature dependent thermal conductivities.

Abstract: Apparatus and a method of operating any structural configuration of a heater and array of temperature sensors to measure with high accuracy, the level of stratified liquids like water and oil or water and gasoline and non-stratified liquids, liquid temperature, and other liquid properties and detect ice formation on aircraft surfaces. Thin and narrow strips of dissimilar material will be used for the heater, array of temperature sensors, mount, and coating. The connecting wires to and from the apparatus will be from the same material. Simultaneous measurements from all the temperature sensors, before and after heat is applied, will be used to generate accurate temperature profiles for the entire configuration and not just from two adjacent temperature sensors. Different features of the temperature profiles will determine accurately the liquid level, liquid temperature and other liquid properties. Apparatus of the invention may also be used to detect ice formation.

Abstract: A cloud condensation nucleus spectrometer having a streamwise segmented condensation nucleus growth column. The condensation nucleus growth column includes alternating hot and cold temperature-maintaining segments arranged next to one another. The temperature difference between adjacent hot and cold temperature-maintaining segments increases from the input opening to an output opening of the condensation nucleus growth column to produce a supersaturation distribution that increases from the input opening to the output opening.

Abstract: A method for controlling a thermogravimetry experiment and for quantitatively determining kinetic constants for decomposition or volatilization reactions using periodic forcing (modulated) temperature functions. A temperature program having a linear part and a periodically varying part superimposed thereon is applied to a sample in a thermogravimetric analyzer. The resulting mass signal is deonvoluted, or separated, into one or more deconvoluted signals.

Abstract: Disclosed is a method for operating a sensor to differentiate between first and second analytes in a sample. The method comprises the steps of determining a input profile for the sensor which will enhance the difference in the output profiles of the sensor as between the first analyte and the second analyte; determining a first analyte output profile as observed when the input profile is applied to the sensor; determining a second analyte output profile as observed when the temperature profile is applied to the sensor; introducing the sensor to the sample while applying the temperature profile to the sensor, thereby obtaining a sample output profile; and evaluating the sample output profile as against the first and second analyte output profiles to thereby determine which of the analytes is present in the sample.

Abstract: The junction temperature of a die inside an electronic component is empirically determined by use of a board simulator that simulates a target board on which the electronic component is to be operated. The board simulator includes a thermoelectric cooler used to electrically control the board simulator's thermal resistivity. The board simulator's thermal resistivity is determined in a first calibration step by measuring the difference in temperatures between two thermocouples mounted on two sides of the board simulator. Then, the board simulator is attached to a test component that includes a heating element and a temperature sensor. In a second calibration step, for a known thermal power generated by the heating element, the junction temperature of the test component is measured for different values of thermal resistivity of the board simulator. Next in a measurement step, the user determines the thermal resistivity of the target board.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for calibrating the temperature/color correspondence of thermal paint. A strip of metal is heated at both ends independently to achieve a predetermined temperature differential measured by thermocouples. Heat flow from the hot end to the cooler end is constrained to the test piece by enclosing it in insulation material. A linear temperature gradient is thus achieved so providing a more accurate and flexible calibrating arrangement.

Abstract: Non-destructive evaluation of a ceramic nozzle is accomplished by generating a thermal gradient across the nozzle while it is mounted in a test rig. The thermal gradient is then measured and compared to a preselected gradient that is representative of the harshest condition to which the nozzle will be exposed during its operating life. The thermal gradient is adjusted until it approximates the preselected gradient. The nozzle is then observed for any cracks which reveal a weakness in the ceramic.

Abstract: A heating sensor capable of generating heat and measuring its own temperature is placed in a fluid and a thermometric sensor is placed in the fluid and inside a temperature boundary layer formed around the heating sensor upon heat generation therefrom. A temperature of the heating sensor and a temperature of the fluid are measured. A relationship between thermal conductivity of the fluid and a differential value between the temperature of the heating sensor and the temperature of the fluid is used to determine the thermal conductivity of the fluid. Then, the heating value of the heating sensor is adjustably increased so that the thermometric sensor is positioned outside the temperature boundary layer. A temperature of the heating sensor and the temperature of the fluid are measured. The relationship between kinematic viscosity of the fluid and a differential value between the temperature of the heating sensor and the temperature of the fluid is used to determine the kinematic viscosity of the fluid.

Abstract: A temperature probe is disclosed for determining the temperature at which residual oils can be vaporized from cold rolled strip without producing free carbon. The probe includes an open ended first tubular member with a burner mounted at one end of the first tubular member for closing the end thereof so that the burner fires its products of combustion through the first tubular member and out the other end thereof. A closed end second tubular member concentrically receives the first tubular member to define an annular heat space therebetween and has an exhaust port in fluid communication with said annular heat space adjacent the burner.

Abstract: An elongated mirrored surface has a temperature gradient established thereacross. Condensation forms along the mirrored surface and the edge of the condensation next to the portion of the mirrored without condensation is where the dew point temperature exists. A scanning means is provided for locating this edge of the condensation. Temperature sensing means, located at the edge, measures the dew point temperature.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for measuring viscosity of an oil at low temperature and low shear stress. It employs a columnar container of the oil with vertically spaced temperature control devices to apply different cooling histories simultaneously. After the cooling histories have been applied, the viscosity of all the different histories is determined by measuring the instantaneous velocity of a probe moving through the column of oil under a constant force.

Abstract: The invention relates to measuring apparatus for a refrigeration system for detecting a liquid component in refrigerant leaving the evaporator of the system through a suction conduit associated with a heating element heating the tube wall. The measuring apparatus includes a first temperature measuring sensor in thermal contact with the suction conduit located just sufficiently away from the heating element so as to be substantially unaffected by the heating element. A second temperature measuring reference sensor is in thermal contact with the suction conduit an optimum distance downstream from said heating element to provide a reference temperature indicative of the dry temperature of the refrigerant.

Abstract: The invention discloses a device for measuring thermal power without using movable and wearable elements, which is also appropriate for small flow of thermal power. The device measures the thermal power by means of temperature differences only and is applicable for use with various media. It is constructed so that little of the measuring thermal power is exchanged between two lines, for which reason a temperature gradient is created in the defined cross-section of the body of the measuring device. This temperature gradient is sensed by one or several pairs of sensors, the sensors of a pair always being spaced apart. Due to the exchanged measuring thermal power there appears a temperature difference in the medium being measured between the inlet and the outlet of the same line through the measuring device. This temperature difference is sensed by one or several pairs of sensors.

Abstract: A device and method for optimizing the weight and/or the heat transfer (conduction) capability of a heat transfer cylindrical sleeve. The sleeve is designed to fit around a cylindrical heat source. One particular application for this invention is where the heat source is a battery such as a metal gas battery in a satellite (where weight savings is important). Two sets of functional relationships are generated showing the relationship between the thickness of the sleeve at its top and bottom, an "area factor" (which is directly proportional to its heat transfer capability), the material thermal conductivity, and its volume per unit length (which is directly proportional to its weight). One can specify the desired heat transfer capability of the sleeve and optimize (minimize) its weight. Conversely, one can specify the desired weight for the sleeve and optimize (maximize) its heat transfer capability.