Melting Or Softening Patents (Class 374/160)
  • Patent number: 11357877
    Abstract: A sterilization enclosure comprises one or more sensors for measuring characteristics within the container during a sterilization process, including one or more characteristics of sterilization agent(s), to determine whether instruments disposed within the container have been exposed to threshold process conditions to ensure a desired level of sterilization for those instruments.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 10, 2016
    Date of Patent: June 14, 2022
    Assignee: Stryker Corporation
    Inventors: Bruce Henniges, Robert Childers, Erik Chmelar, Adam Dudycha, Michael Miller, Ali Moaiery, Benjamin John Purrenhage
  • Patent number: 10632672
    Abstract: In an example, a method includes measuring the temperature of a fused region and the temperature of an unfused region of a first layer of build material; determining a preheating setting for a subsequent layer of build material in response to the measured temperature of the unfused region of the first layer; determining a print instruction for applying print agent to the subsequent layer of build material, wherein the application of print agent prescribed by the print instruction for the subsequent layer to cause the temperature of the preheated build material to be a predetermined temperature prior to fusion in response to the measured temperature of the fused region of the first layer; forming the subsequent layer of build material; preheating the subsequent layer of build material in accordance with the preheating setting; and selectively applying the print agent onto the subsequent layer based on the print instruction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 12, 2016
    Date of Patent: April 28, 2020
    Assignee: Hewlett-Packard Development Company, L.P.
    Inventors: Xavier Vilajosana, Alejandro Manuel De Pena, Sergio Puigardeu Aramendia, David Ramirez Muela, Luis Garcia
  • Patent number: 9617435
    Abstract: The invention discloses an ink for the engraved steel die printing process, having a viscosity at 40° C. between 3 Pa·s to 15 Pa·s, preferably 5 to 10 Pa·s, and having a polymeric organic binder and magnetic pigment particle, characterized in that said magnetic pigment particles comprises a magnetic core material which is surrounded by at least one layer of another material. The surrounding layers, single or in combination, confer the pigment particle particular optical properties in the visible and/or in the near IR, chosen from high specular or diffuse reflectance, spectrally selective absorption or reflection, and angle-dependent absorption or reflection, and allow for the formulation of inks having a large gamut of color and other optical functionalities.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 9, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 11, 2017
    Assignees: SICPA HOLDING SA, BANK OF CANADA
    Inventors: Jessica Krueger, Pierre Degott, Claude-Alain Despland, Christine Reinhard, Andrea V. Firth
  • Patent number: 9166237
    Abstract: Passive temperature supervision devices for detecting temperature changes in compressed gaseous fuel storage systems of fuel cell systems. More specifically, systems and methods for detecting temperature changes in compressed gaseous fuel storage systems such as compressed gaseous fuel tanks of motor vehicles, where increases and decreases in temperature can be detected without the need for electric supervision systems.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 20, 2013
    Date of Patent: October 20, 2015
    Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations LLC
    Inventors: Christian Sachs, Holger Winkelmann
  • Patent number: 8727610
    Abstract: The object is to provide a laser processing apparatus, a laser processing temperature measuring apparatus, a laser processing method, and a laser processing temperature measuring method which can highly accurately detect the processing temperature when carrying out processing such as welding with laser light. A laser processing apparatus 1A for processing members DR, UR to be processed by irradiating the members with laser light LB comprises a laser (semiconductor laser unit 20A) for generating the laser light LB; optical means for converging the laser light LB generated by the laser onto processing areas DA, UA; and a filter 30, disposed between the members DR, UR to be processed and the optical means, for blocking a wavelength of fluorescence generated by the optical means upon pumping with the laser light LB; wherein light having the wavelength blocked by the filter 30 is used for measuring a temperature of the processing areas DA, UA.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 24, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 20, 2014
    Assignee: Hamamatsu Photonics K.K.
    Inventors: Satoshi Matsumoto, Tsuyoshi Kosugi
  • Patent number: 8701587
    Abstract: According to a precise critical temperature indicator and a control method thereof of the present invention, the precise critical temperature indicator comprises as one body: a blocking boundary layer which is positioned between a spreading material member including an operation button and spreading medium members including a spreadable area for a spreading material; and a temperature sensor which is controlled and operated as the spreading material passes through the blocking boundary layer and contacts the spreading medium member according to a user's pressing of the operation button. As a result, operation of the temperature sensor is easily controlled using the operation button.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 24, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 22, 2014
    Assignee: Intellectual Discovery, Inc.
    Inventor: Ji Hoon Park
  • Publication number: 20140098836
    Abstract: A temperature indicating paint is provided. The paint is spreadable onto a surface of an article. The paint includes particles of an alloy of two or more metals. The particles vary in relative composition of the metals such that particles having different compositions have different solidus and liquidus melting temperatures.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 30, 2012
    Publication date: April 10, 2014
    Applicant: ROLLS-ROYCE PLC
    Inventor: Colin Bird
  • Patent number: 8641273
    Abstract: Faulty battery detecting and locating devices and methods are able to detect and locate a faulty battery cell. The device applies an energy to a sensing member, such as a polymeric tube containing at least two polymer-coated and twisted electric wires. Heat that is generated by a faulty battery triggers an electric communication between the two electric wires by melting at least a portion of the polymer. The resulting change in resistance between the two electric wires is used to detect and locate a faulty battery.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 2, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 4, 2014
    Assignee: Sinoelectric Powertrain Corporation
    Inventors: Peng Zhou, Paul Tsao, David Kevin Pariseau
  • Patent number: 8388223
    Abstract: A method for measuring the temperature at various locations in a furnace adapted to heat-treat a metal part commences by placing one or more devices at various location within the furnace. Each device is an inorganic/metallic skeletal structure residual from firing a mixture of binder and one or more of inorganic or metallic particles at a temperature that chars the binder to form the inorganic/metallic skeletal structure of a determined shape. A physical parameter of the skeletal structure determined shape is monitored after firing of the furnace. Then, the monitored physical parameter is compared to a plot of temperature versus the physical parameter to determine the temperature of the furnace at the various locations.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 9, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 5, 2013
    Assignee: The Edward Orton Jr. Ceramic Foundation
    Inventors: Gary Childress, James Litzinger, Thomas McInnerney
  • Publication number: 20120307865
    Abstract: A temperature indicator having a tubular structure; a float or floating particles releasably held in place in the tubular structure by a temperature dependent material that is activated at or about a critical temperature, the float or floating particles having a first density; and a fluid within the tubular structure, the fluid having a second density that is less than the first density. When the temperature indicator is heated to the critical temperature, the temperature dependent material activates and releases the float or the floating particles, which rise in the fluid so as to be visible as in indicator that the critical temperature has been reached.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 31, 2012
    Publication date: December 6, 2012
    Inventor: Robert Parker
  • Patent number: 8322919
    Abstract: A fiber-optic temperature sensor with a cantilever beam including two different material strips with different thermal expansion coefficients, the cantilever beam having a reflective surface on an end of the cantilever beam, an optical fiber probe including a transmitting multimode optical fiber and at least one receiving multimode optical fiber for receiving reflected light from the reflective surface. Temperature changes at the sensor are indicated by a change in reflected light coupled into the receiving multimode optical fiber due to lateral displacement of the edge of the reflective surface caused by bending of the cantilever beam. Some embodiments have additional reference receiving fibers for compensation for noise, changes in gap length, and other factors.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 2, 2010
    Date of Patent: December 4, 2012
    Assignee: The United States of America, as represented by the Secretary of the Navy
    Inventors: Nicholas Lagakos, Joseph A Bucaro
  • Patent number: 8308356
    Abstract: Protective enclosure and method for protecting heat sensitive, data recording devices in high temperature environments. The protective enclosure has a housing having at least one compartment for containing a heat sensitive, data recording device, e.g., a temperature recording device, and a jacket configured to contain a phase change material. The jacket may be vented and configured to at least partially surround the compartment. The housing may be sealed with an endcap. The recording device and a heat absorbing element are disposed within the same or within adjoining or adjacent sub-compartments within the enclosure. In a method, the enclosure with heat absorbing element and temperature recording device is placed within a heated environment or environment to be heated, e.g., a furnace. The recording device is connected to a thermal couple.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 25, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 13, 2012
    Assignee: Despatch Industries Limited Partnership
    Inventor: Hans L. Melgaard
  • Patent number: 8303180
    Abstract: A temperature recorder in the form of a tubular cover and with an inside piston, in which an altered position of the piston is carried out by a mechanical movement released from a bimetal washer, which, when making a sudden change, changes its form from convex to concave when a determined temperature level is reached. Two line-formed screen patterns, a picture formed by colored lines on the inner surface of the tubular cover, shows a certain pattern in the original position, and a different pattern is shown when an inside piston has been moved vertically inside the outer tubular cover. Friction between the outside of the piston and the inner surface of the tubular cover forms a braking means. A reset button can by means of a magnet or a spring repulse or press back the piston which is in the top of the tubular cover and has a magnet and the piston will be pressed back within the tubular cover to its original position and the first patterns will be shown clearly again by the line-formed screen pattern.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 30, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 6, 2012
    Inventor: Petra Wadström
  • Publication number: 20120211684
    Abstract: A detector (3) is provided that is independent of outside energy, for a release device, for which detector no battery and no external power supply is provided, and that generates a signal at a defined temperature, a thermal release element (3.2), at least one piezo element (3.1) and a coupling element (11) being arranged such in a bracket/housing (3.3) that as a result of a change in state of the thermal release element (3.2) by the coupling element (11) exerts a mechanical pressure on the piezo element (3.1) so that an electric signal is generated. A valve for a release device is also provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 16, 2012
    Publication date: August 23, 2012
    Applicant: MINIMAX GMBH & CO. KG
    Inventor: Chrysafis Zlatintsis
  • Publication number: 20120201270
    Abstract: A multi-stage temperature indicating device having a housing having a bore formed therein having a closed end and an open end, the housing having a first neck region spaced from the closed end, a first internal cavity between the first neck region and the closed end, a second internal cavity between the first neck region and the open end; an indicator rod comprising a first stem stretch and a second stem stretch; an extension segment having a first extension stretch and a second extension stretch, the second extension stretch slidably cooperating with the first stem stretch; the indicator rod and the extension segment slidably positioned in the bore; and a fusible material retaining the indicator rod and the extension segment in the housing, wherein different portions of the fusible material soften at different predetermined temperatures, whereby upon the softening of a first portion of the fusible material allows a spring to urge the indicator rod a first distance out of the housing indicating that a first t
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 29, 2010
    Publication date: August 9, 2012
    Applicant: VOLK ENTERPRISES, INC.
    Inventor: Gary M. Thompson
  • Patent number: 8162538
    Abstract: The surface density of projections formed on a thin metal film of a temperature-measuring member having the metal film having been subjected to a temperature profile is calculated with a number-calculating section according to image data fed into an arithmetic processing unit through an optical microscope, CCD camera, and I/O board. The maximum temperature of the object is determined with the temperature-calculating unit according to the surface density and data on the maximum temperature and surface density previously stored in memory. Furthermore, a temperature-measuring member constituted by a thin aluminum film arranged on a substrate is used. A reduction in the reflectivity of the film due to projections formed on the film surface according to a temperature profile to which the member has been subjected is measured. The maximum temperature in the temperature profile is estimated according to the reduction in reflectivity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 1, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 24, 2012
    Assignee: Kabushiki Kaisha Kobe Seiko Sho
    Inventors: Masao Mizuno, Takayuki Hirano, Katsufumi Tomihisa
  • Publication number: 20120027045
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to passive thermal monitoring devices, and methods of making and using the passive thermal monitoring devices.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 1, 2011
    Publication date: February 2, 2012
    Applicant: Nano Terra Inc.
    Inventors: Joseph M. MCLELLAN, Brian T. Mayers, Adam Winkleman, Michael J. Fuerstman, George M. Whitesides
  • Patent number: 8092081
    Abstract: A method and apparatus is provided for determining when a battery, or one or more batteries within a battery pack, undergoes an undesired thermal event such as thermal runaway. The system uses an optical fiber mounted in close proximity to, or in contact with, an external surface of the battery or batteries to be monitored. A source of light is optically coupled to the input facet of the optical fiber and a detector optically coupled to the output facet of the optical fiber. Battery health is determined by monitoring the light transmitted through the optical fiber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 28, 2009
    Date of Patent: January 10, 2012
    Assignee: Tesla Motors, Inc.
    Inventors: Weston Arthur Hermann, Paul Bryan Kreiner, Scott Ira Kohn, Dorian West, Jonathan Louis Hall
  • Patent number: 8092078
    Abstract: In a method of measuring a temperature value associated with melting, softening or decomposition of sample substances, an array of samples is deposited onto a support tray. The support tray is placed onto a heating device provided with temperature sensing means, the support tray is illuminated, and the array of samples is observed by a imaging device. WNle varying the temperature of the heating device, the image data from the imaging device is fed to an image recording device and temperature values associated with each feed of image data are also recorded. The image data is reviewed to detect changes in the image, such as image intensity, at each or selected sample locations, and the temperature of the heating device at an image change associated with a change in state of a sample is logged. Image processing software may be used to detect changes in the image, for example in the intensity of the image, at each sample location.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 11, 2004
    Date of Patent: January 10, 2012
    Assignee: University of Southampton
    Inventors: Mark Bradley, Jean-Francois Thaburet
  • Patent number: 7954423
    Abstract: An apparatus (1) for determining crystallization solidification curves of a chocolate mass (6) includes a removal location (37), a measurement chamber (9) and a melting chamber (21). The removal location (37) serves to remove a liquid sample (38) of chocolate mass (6) from a flow of liquid chocolate mass (6). The measurement chamber (9) is connected to the removal location (37) such that the liquid sample (38) of chocolate mass (6) enters the measurement chamber (9). The measurement chamber (9) includes a temperature sensor (16) serving to sense the temperature of the sample (38) of chocolate mass (6) contained in the measurement chamber (9). The measurement chamber (9) includes a cooled wall serving for solidification of the liquid sample (38) of chocolate mass (6) contained in the measurement chamber (9). The measurement chamber (9) includes a movable piston (14; 41).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 27, 2005
    Date of Patent: June 7, 2011
    Assignee: Sollich KG
    Inventor: Thomas Sollich
  • Patent number: 7819578
    Abstract: A temperature measuring arrangement measures the temperature of a fluid passing a component. The arrangement includes a temperature measuring device having a substrate of low thermal capacity that has applied thereto two or more temperature recording media. The device is attached to and spaced apart from the component and is in the fluid flow.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 1, 2007
    Date of Patent: October 26, 2010
    Assignee: Rolls-Royce PLC
    Inventors: Michael H. Coney, Andrew J. Mullender, Hugh M. L. Watson, Christopher S. Boniface
  • Patent number: 7815370
    Abstract: An apparatus, system, and method are disclosed for detecting temperature threshold events in an aftertreatment device. The system may include an aftertreatment device configured to treat an exhaust gas of an internal combustion engine and a temperature responder disposed within a region of interest of the aftertreatment device. The temperature responder is configured to melt at a threshold temperature. The system may further include two access points electrically coupled to the temperature responder and an observation module configured to measure an electrical resistance value across the two access points. The observation module detects the melting of the temperature responder based on the electrical resistance value measured across the access points. In alternate embodiments the observation module is included within an engine control module (ECM) or a service tool.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 11, 2007
    Date of Patent: October 19, 2010
    Assignee: Cummins Filtration IP, Inc.
    Inventors: Conrad J. Simon, III, Randall J. Stafford
  • Patent number: 7766543
    Abstract: A method is disclosed that monitors and controls the condition of an expandable mixture before injecting it in a mold and that maintains the conditions for filling so as to make a casting mold having a uniform strength. The method comprises (a) a step of measuring the temperature of the expandable mixture, (b) a step of determining each reference value of the one or more characteristic parameters that show a characteristic property of the expandable mixture based on the measured temperature and the predetermined relationship between a characteristic property of an expandable mixture and its temperature, (c) a step of measuring the one or more characteristic parameters that show the condition of the mixing of the expandable mixture, (d) a step of determining whether each characteristic parameter is within the corresponding reference value, and (e) a step of determining whether the expandable mixture has been made under the normal condition or if it needs to be adjusted.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 9, 2006
    Date of Patent: August 3, 2010
    Assignee: Sintokogio, Ltd.
    Inventors: Yusuke Kato, Toshihiko Zenpo, Norihiro Asano, Kazuyuki Nishikawa
  • Patent number: 7618184
    Abstract: A system and method for a multi-temperature indicator stick. The multi-temperature indicator stick includes an elongated stick configured to indicate two or more predetermined temperatures. The elongated stick includes a first temperature indication material configured to indicate a first predetermined temperature upon being subjected to the first predetermined temperature. The elongated stick also includes a second temperature indication material configured to indicate a second predetermined temperature upon being subjected to the second predetermined temperature. The first temperature indication material and the second temperature indication material share a common interface extending longitudinally along the elongated stick.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 3, 2006
    Date of Patent: November 17, 2009
    Assignee: Illinois Tool Works
    Inventors: Anatoly Gosis, Shannon B. Reading, Joseph E. Fabin, Frank Otte
  • Patent number: 7604400
    Abstract: A system and method for gathering diagnostic information relating to an operating condition of a gas stream or processing path of a coal gasification system is disclosed. The information is gathered by deploying one or more specially constructed modules or seeds that proceed through the gas stream of the coal gasification system as part of the mass flow of the gas stream. The seed may be physically recoverable in which an outer material of the seed ablates when exposed to a predetermined temperature of the gas stream. The seed may be physically non-recoverable in which electronic circuitry transmits a signal to a receiver relating to the temperature of the gas stream.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 2, 2007
    Date of Patent: October 20, 2009
    Assignee: General Electric Company
    Inventors: Anthony Mark Thompson, James Scott Vartuli, Kenneth Brakeley Welles, Emad Andarawis Andarawis, Wayne Charles Hasz, John Erik Hershey, Ertugrul Berkcan
  • Publication number: 20090190626
    Abstract: In a method of measuring a temperature value associated with melting, softening or decomposition of sample substances, an array of samples is deposited onto a support tray. The support tray is placed onto a heating device provided with temperature sensing means, the support tray is illuminated, and the array of samples is observed by a imaging device. WNle varying the temperature of the heating device, the image data from the imaging device is fed to an image recording device and temperature values associated with each feed of image data are also recorded. The image data is reviewed to detect changes in the image, such as image intensity, at each or selected sample locations, and the temperature of the heating device at an image change associated with a change in state of a sample is logged. Image processing software may be used to detect changes in the image, for example in the intensity of the image, at each sample location.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 1, 2004
    Publication date: July 30, 2009
    Applicant: University of Southhampton
    Inventors: Mark Bradley, Jean-Francois Thaburet
  • Patent number: 7534028
    Abstract: A burning oven, especially for dental materials, is provided and includes a temperature detection element and a calibrating device for calibrating the temperature detection element. The calibrating device has a temperature sensor that in turn can be calibrated at a given number of temperature points, especially one or two temperature points.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 15, 2005
    Date of Patent: May 19, 2009
    Assignee: Ivoclar Vivadent AG
    Inventors: Rudolf Jussel, Heinrich K. Feichtinger
  • Publication number: 20090097528
    Abstract: An apparatus, system, and method are disclosed for detecting temperature threshold events in an aftertreatment device. The system may include an aftertreatment device configured to treat an exhaust gas of an internal combustion engine and a temperature responder disposed within a region of interest of the aftertreatment device. The temperature responder is configured to melt at a threshold temperature. The system may further include two access points electrically coupled to the temperature responder and an observation module configured to measure an electrical resistance value across the two access points. The observation module detects the melting of the temperature responder based on the electrical resistance value measured across the access points. In alternate embodiments the observation module is included within an engine control module (ECM) or a service tool.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 11, 2007
    Publication date: April 16, 2009
    Inventors: Conrad J. Simon, III, Randall J. Stafford
  • Publication number: 20090050049
    Abstract: A visual thermal history indicator comprising a pattern produced from at least two waxes wherein one wax has a melting point that differs from the other wax, or where the waxes have the same melting point but different melt flow behaviour, and wherein the pattern is adapted so that when the lower melting point wax melts or the wax with greater melt flow behaviour flows, the visual appearance of the pattern changes, and wherein when the second and subsequent higher melting waxes melt, or when the lower melt flow behaviour waxes flow, the visual appearance of the pattern changes as each wax melts or flows.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 27, 2006
    Publication date: February 26, 2009
    Inventors: Vincent Craig, Timothy John Senden, Christian Kugge
  • Patent number: 7475653
    Abstract: An apparatus that indicates whether an object has been exposed to a predetermined critical temperature T. The apparatus housing has a reservoir portion and a capillary tube portion in fluid connection with the reservoir portion. A first fluid is contained within the reservoir portion. A second fluid is contained within the capillary portion. A barrier is located intermediate the first fluid and second fluid. The barrier prevents the first and second fluids from intermixing until the apparatus is exposed to the critical temperature, and then allows at least a portion of the second fluid to mix with the first fluid when the apparatus is exposed to the critical temperature. An observable characteristic of one of the fluids irreversibly changes when the apparatus is exposed to the critical temperature. The housing completely encapsulates the fluids and barrier within the housing and prevents evaporation of the fluids and barrier from the housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 24, 2004
    Date of Patent: January 13, 2009
    Assignee: Drummond Scientific Company
    Inventors: Michael E. Drummond, Albert J. Moses
  • Patent number: 7416329
    Abstract: A sensor for detecting icing conditions in an airstream includes a flow housing mounted on an aircraft and in which one or more probes are mounted. At least one of the probes subjected to impingement of the airstream and liquid moisture droplets in such airstream. The heat removal, or cooling effect on the probe in the airstream carrying liquid droplets is determined. A temperature signal indicating the airstream temperature is combined with signals from the at least one probe for determining whether or not icing conditions are present.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 22, 2005
    Date of Patent: August 26, 2008
    Assignee: Rosemount Aerospace Inc.
    Inventor: John A. Severson
  • Publication number: 20080192801
    Abstract: A temperature switch comprises a material (14) which melts and concomitantly undergoes a change in an electrical characteristic at a predetermined temperature. The temperature switch also includes at least two electrical contacts (10, 12) for detecting the change in the electrical characteristic. The material (14) comprises an organic cation and an anion and is preferably an ionic liquid.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 17, 2008
    Publication date: August 14, 2008
    Applicant: Kidde IP Holdings Limited
    Inventor: Alexandra Georgina Redcliffe Gordon
  • Patent number: 7387438
    Abstract: A transparent vacuum formed vessel 1 is filled with a liquid 3 at room temperature that will become a solid at freezing temperature and a low density float material 4. After freezing, the vessel is turned upside down so that upon thawing, the vivid colored float will move to the top of the vessel showing a thaw. The devise can be reused. The same concept can be used as a cooking aid by using a transparent sealed tubular 1 assembly inserted in the food with a solid cylinder 3 that will melt at some critical temperature allowing the low density float to rise to the top of the indicator visibly protruding from the food. More than one meltable cylinder, 3 & 8 and float, 4 & 5 may be used as a warning and ready indicator. Combinations of solid dense particulates and low density materials may also be used for color changing indicators. A permanent magnet attached to a float can be used to trigger an audible alarm, which can be incorporated in various cooking utensils to show cooking temperatures and times.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 2, 2005
    Date of Patent: June 17, 2008
    Inventor: Robert Parker
  • Patent number: 7380982
    Abstract: A temperature sensing component enables accurate in situ temperature measurement. The temperature sensing component is disposed within the process chamber. The temperature sensing component has a cavity, in which a transparent cover is disposed over an opening of the cavity. A material is disposed within the cavity of the temperature sensing component, and a sensor is configured to sense a phase change of the material through the transparent cover.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 1, 2005
    Date of Patent: June 3, 2008
    Assignee: Lam Research Corporation
    Inventor: Shrikant Lohokare
  • Publication number: 20080107153
    Abstract: A system and method for a multi-temperature indicator stick. The multi-temperature indicator stick includes an elongated stick configured to indicate two or more predetermined temperatures. The elongated stick includes a first temperature indication material configured to indicate a first predetermined temperature upon being subjected to the first predetermined temperature. The elongated stick also includes a second temperature indication material configured to indicate a second predetermined temperature upon being subjected to the second predetermined temperature. The first temperature indication material and the second temperature indication material share a common interface extending longitudinally along the elongated stick.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 3, 2006
    Publication date: May 8, 2008
    Inventors: Anatoly Gosis, Shannon B. Reading, Joseph E. Fabin, Frank Otte
  • Patent number: 7360946
    Abstract: A thermal history indicator comprising a temperature sensitive material, a sensing device, a heat insulating material functioning to buffer the temperature sensitive material against temperature change, and an activation means. The triggering of the activation means allows a molten phase of the temperature sensitive material to interact with the sensing device, or cease interacting with the sensing device, thereby altering its chemical, biochemical or microbiological.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 8, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 22, 2008
    Assignee: Temp-Tell Limited
    Inventors: Richard Tester, Farage Al-Ghazzewi
  • Patent number: 7343258
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a method for accurately calibrating fusion temperature in optical fiber splicing. With assistance of direct arc-recentering technique, two optical fibers are spliced and then continuously heated with a post-fusion process. In the process, the fusion temperature is automatically determined in terms of effective fusion currents, which is done by real-time monitoring the fusion time dependence of cladding diameter reduction. In comparison with model calculations, variations of fusion temperature caused by changes of electrode condition and operating environment, e.g. altitude, temperature and humidity are derived. To recover the optimal fusion temperature in various fusion processes, the calibrating results are automatically invoked to compensate fusion currents.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 2, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 11, 2008
    Assignee: Telefonaktiebolaget LM Ericsson (publ)
    Inventors: Wei-Ping Huang, Kjell Ahlstedt, Ellef Hersoug, Christian Gottlicher Palafox
  • Publication number: 20080025370
    Abstract: A temperature sensing component enables accurate in situ temperature measurement. The temperature sensing component is disposed within the process chamber. The temperature sensing component has a cavity, in which a transparent cover is disposed over an opening of the cavity. A material is disposed within the cavity of the temperature sensing component, and a sensor is configured to sense a phase change of the material through the transparent cover.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 1, 2005
    Publication date: January 31, 2008
    Applicant: Lam Research Corporation
    Inventor: Shrikant Lohokare
  • Patent number: 7316506
    Abstract: An apparatus to combine temperature indicator sticks used in the welding, metal fabrication, and heat treatment industries and capable of identifying at least two given temperatures is disclosed. The apparatus includes a first temperature indicator stick aligned along a first axis and comprised of a compound which melts at a first temperature, and a second temperature indicator stick aligned along a second axis and formed of another compound which melts at a second temperature. The apparatus also includes a connector physically connecting and aligning the first and second indicator sticks.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 18, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 8, 2008
    Assignee: Illinois Tool Works Inc.
    Inventor: Victor Deonarine
  • Patent number: 7204199
    Abstract: The use of thermopolymeric switching medium in temperature monitoring devices in which thermopolymeric switching medium is used as a retaining materials and are based on polymeric compositions that can be designed and programmed to meet selective parameters in production and performance. The thermopolymeric switching mediums can be formulated in a pure state or can include additives, such as fillers or active materials to impact the characteristics of the thermopolymeric switching component.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 23, 2004
    Date of Patent: April 17, 2007
    Assignee: Volk Enterprises, Inc.
    Inventors: Hans O. Ribi, Gary M. Thompson
  • Patent number: 7097353
    Abstract: Disclosed is a temperature indicating method and device. The device embodies a sealed tube containing a liquid and a float. The tube has markings on the exterior indicating temperature zones or, in the alternative, temperature gradients. The method disclosed includes inverting the tube such that the indicator drops to the bottom of the tube and freezing the device at the appropriate temperature level. In use, the device is placed right side up in a container along with other items for which the highest temperature level arrived at is desired to be known. Upon warming, the liquid in the tube melts and the float drops through the liquid to the freezing level of the liquid. By removing the device from the container and comparing the float level in the tube to the markings on the exterior of the tube, the highest temperature or temperature zone that the contents of the container were subjected can be determined.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 12, 2004
    Date of Patent: August 29, 2006
    Inventor: Horst K. Wieder
  • Patent number: 7040804
    Abstract: Two conductive solid materials with their respective different compositions are joined in parallel with a gravity direction thereof, and then, heated and melted under static magnetic field orthogonal to the gravity direction to form two conductive melts with their respective different compositions. Then, the conductive melts are maintained for a predetermined period of time under the static magnetic field, and cooled and solidified.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 30, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 9, 2006
    Assignee: The Institute of Space and Astronautical Science
    Inventors: Yuko Inatomi, Kazuhiko Kuribayashi
  • Patent number: 7036452
    Abstract: A temperature history indicator means for affixing to goods. A temperature related phase change in a material within the indicator leads to an indication that a high temperature event has occurred. A preferred format has a water-soluble, lipid-insoluble dye immobilised within a lipid selected to have a melting point at a particular temperature and has all components made from edible materials. Upon melting, the dye dissolves in water present in a secondary phase or the goods themselves giving a visual indication. Another format has a primary reagent within a solid lipid and a secondary reagent held with a secondary phase such that melting of the lipid allows the primary reagent to react with the secondary reagent, providing an indication of a high temperature event. Time-dependent formats are also considered.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 10, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 2, 2006
    Assignee: Temp-Tell Limited
    Inventor: Richard Tester
  • Patent number: 7002054
    Abstract: A wearable article including a fever indicator disposed on at least a portion of the article for indicating the body temperature of a wearer. The fever indicator may be used in conjunction with a disposable absorbent article and provides a signal indicating qualitative or quantitative information about the body temperature of the wearer based on the temperature of the wearer's urine.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 19, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2006
    Assignee: The Procter & Gamble Company
    Inventors: Patrick Jay Allen, Donald Carroll Roe, Oliver Edwin Clarke Mason
  • Patent number: 6960043
    Abstract: An apparatus to reposition a temperature indicator stick for welding, metal fabrication, and heat treatment is disclosed. The apparatus includes a housing having an outer surface and an inner chamber to receive a temperature indicator stick therein. An advancement mechanism is positioned about the outer surface of the housing, and is capable of contact with a temperature indicator stick positioned in the chamber of the housing to advance the temperature indicator stick with motion applied to the advancement mechanism.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 18, 2001
    Date of Patent: November 1, 2005
    Assignee: Illinois Tool Works Inc.
    Inventor: Victor I. Deonarine
  • Patent number: 6945693
    Abstract: A cooking thermometer having an audible alarm includes a skewer having a segment of a shape memory alloy wire disposed therein. The upper end of the shape memory allow wire is secured to a connecting rod which is operatively associated with a cam assembly. When the skewer and hence the shape memory alloy wire is heated, the shape memory alloy commences a phase transformation from martensite to austenite and contracts. The cam assembly serves to translate the up and down motion of the connecting rod into rotational motion which is transmitted through a spur gear assembly to a pivoting pointer positionable over a temperature indicia plate. A helical spring assembly is positioned on the top of the connecting rod which exerts stress on the connecting rod and shape memory alloy wire during the phase transformation to extend the temperature transformation range and improve and optimize the linearity of the transition.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 25, 2003
    Date of Patent: September 20, 2005
    Inventors: Dolores C. Kaiser, Tommi L. Kuutti
  • Patent number: 6893155
    Abstract: The invention is directed towards a cooking thermometer having an audible alarm and triggering mechanism therefore. The cooking thermometer includes a skewer having a segment of nitinol wire disposed therein. The nitinol wire is secured to a connecting wire which extends upwardly into the housing and is vertically displaceable within the skewer. The connecting wire extends out of the skewer into a wire guide having a curvilinear passage therein which is adapted to allow sliding displacement of the connecting wire therethrough. The upper end of the connecting wire is fixedly attached to a gear assembly whereby sliding displacement of the connecting wire causes the rotation of the gear assembly, which engages a spur gear train which is connected to a pivoting pointer positionable over the temperature indicia plate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 6, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 17, 2005
    Inventors: Dolores C. Kaiser, Tommi L Kuut
  • Patent number: 6861836
    Abstract: A non-ferrous component comprising a thermally-affected adhesive applied to a surface of the component, and at least one ferrous metal wire attached to the surface of the component by the thermally-affected adhesive.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 23, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 1, 2005
    Assignee: Sikorsky Aircraft Corporation
    Inventors: Stephen R. Sammataro, Michael F. Mullen
  • Patent number: 6857777
    Abstract: An apparatus to combine temperature indicator sticks used in the welding, metal fabrication, and heat treatment industries and capable of identifying a given temperature of an object is disclosed. The apparatus includes a first temperature indicator stick comprised of a compound which melts at a first temperature, and a second temperature indicator stick formed of another compound which melts at a second temperature. The Apparatus further includes a connector physically connecting the first and second indicator sticks in a single assembly. A method to provide a dual temperature indicator stick is also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 23, 2001
    Date of Patent: February 22, 2005
    Assignee: Illinois Tool Works Inc.
    Inventors: Pramathesh Desai, Victor I. Deonarine
  • Patent number: 6827842
    Abstract: A laser beam reflected by wax crystals is used in determining the wax crystallization temperature of a hot dewaxing solvent upstream of solvent chillers. This is automatically achieved by an on-line method from a remote control point, in which a slipstream of solvent is passed through an attached solvent loop into a sample chamber in the loop, without being exposed to ambient conditions. As the sample is cooled, the beam reflections are detected and indicate the wax to crystallization temperature. Corrective measures can then be taken to prevent fouling of the chillers, if need be.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 19, 2001
    Date of Patent: December 7, 2004
    Assignee: ExxonMobil Research & Engrg. Co.
    Inventors: Brent England Beasley, Randall Stephen Lachine