Melting Or Softening Patents (Class 374/160)
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Patent number: 11357877Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: September 10, 2016Date of Patent: June 14, 2022Assignee: Stryker CorporationInventors: Bruce Henniges, Robert Childers, Erik Chmelar, Adam Dudycha, Michael Miller, Ali Moaiery, Benjamin John Purrenhage
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Patent number: 10632672Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: May 12, 2016Date of Patent: April 28, 2020Assignee: Hewlett-Packard Development Company, L.P.Inventors: Xavier Vilajosana, Alejandro Manuel De Pena, Sergio Puigardeu Aramendia, David Ramirez Muela, Luis Garcia
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Patent number: 9617435Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: April 9, 2010Date of Patent: April 11, 2017Assignees: SICPA HOLDING SA, BANK OF CANADAInventors: Jessica Krueger, Pierre Degott, Claude-Alain Despland, Christine Reinhard, Andrea V. Firth
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Patent number: 9166237Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: February 20, 2013Date of Patent: October 20, 2015Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations LLCInventors: Christian Sachs, Holger Winkelmann
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Patent number: 8727610Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: November 24, 2009Date of Patent: May 20, 2014Assignee: Hamamatsu Photonics K.K.Inventors: Satoshi Matsumoto, Tsuyoshi Kosugi
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Patent number: 8701587Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: December 24, 2009Date of Patent: April 22, 2014Assignee: Intellectual Discovery, Inc.Inventor: Ji Hoon Park
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Publication number: 20140098836Abstract: 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: ApplicationFiled: May 30, 2012Publication date: April 10, 2014Applicant: ROLLS-ROYCE PLCInventor: Colin Bird
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Patent number: 8641273Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: November 2, 2010Date of Patent: February 4, 2014Assignee: Sinoelectric Powertrain CorporationInventors: Peng Zhou, Paul Tsao, David Kevin Pariseau
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Patent number: 8388223Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: August 9, 2007Date of Patent: March 5, 2013Assignee: The Edward Orton Jr. Ceramic FoundationInventors: Gary Childress, James Litzinger, Thomas McInnerney
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Publication number: 20120307865Abstract: 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: ApplicationFiled: May 31, 2012Publication date: December 6, 2012Inventor: Robert Parker
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Patent number: 8322919Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: February 2, 2010Date of Patent: December 4, 2012Assignee: The United States of America, as represented by the Secretary of the NavyInventors: Nicholas Lagakos, Joseph A Bucaro
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Patent number: 8308356Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: August 25, 2009Date of Patent: November 13, 2012Assignee: Despatch Industries Limited PartnershipInventor: Hans L. Melgaard
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Patent number: 8303180Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: November 30, 2007Date of Patent: November 6, 2012Inventor: Petra Wadström
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Publication number: 20120211684Abstract: 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: ApplicationFiled: February 16, 2012Publication date: August 23, 2012Applicant: MINIMAX GMBH & CO. KGInventor: Chrysafis Zlatintsis
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Publication number: 20120201270Abstract: 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 tType: ApplicationFiled: October 29, 2010Publication date: August 9, 2012Applicant: VOLK ENTERPRISES, INC.Inventor: Gary M. Thompson
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Patent number: 8162538Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: July 1, 2008Date of Patent: April 24, 2012Assignee: Kabushiki Kaisha Kobe Seiko ShoInventors: Masao Mizuno, Takayuki Hirano, Katsufumi Tomihisa
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Publication number: 20120027045Abstract: The present invention is directed to passive thermal monitoring devices, and methods of making and using the passive thermal monitoring devices.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 1, 2011Publication date: February 2, 2012Applicant: Nano Terra Inc.Inventors: Joseph M. MCLELLAN, Brian T. Mayers, Adam Winkleman, Michael J. Fuerstman, George M. Whitesides
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Patent number: 8092081Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: May 28, 2009Date of Patent: January 10, 2012Assignee: Tesla Motors, Inc.Inventors: Weston Arthur Hermann, Paul Bryan Kreiner, Scott Ira Kohn, Dorian West, Jonathan Louis Hall
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Patent number: 8092078Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: October 11, 2004Date of Patent: January 10, 2012Assignee: University of SouthamptonInventors: Mark Bradley, Jean-Francois Thaburet
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Patent number: 7954423Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: April 27, 2005Date of Patent: June 7, 2011Assignee: Sollich KGInventor: Thomas Sollich
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Patent number: 7819578Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: November 1, 2007Date of Patent: October 26, 2010Assignee: Rolls-Royce PLCInventors: Michael H. Coney, Andrew J. Mullender, Hugh M. L. Watson, Christopher S. Boniface
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Apparatus, system, and method for detecting temperature threshold events in an aftertreatment device
Patent number: 7815370Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: October 11, 2007Date of Patent: October 19, 2010Assignee: Cummins Filtration IP, Inc.Inventors: Conrad J. Simon, III, Randall J. Stafford -
Patent number: 7766543Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: June 9, 2006Date of Patent: August 3, 2010Assignee: Sintokogio, Ltd.Inventors: Yusuke Kato, Toshihiko Zenpo, Norihiro Asano, Kazuyuki Nishikawa
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Patent number: 7618184Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: November 3, 2006Date of Patent: November 17, 2009Assignee: Illinois Tool WorksInventors: Anatoly Gosis, Shannon B. Reading, Joseph E. Fabin, Frank Otte
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Patent number: 7604400Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: August 2, 2007Date of Patent: October 20, 2009Assignee: General Electric CompanyInventors: Anthony Mark Thompson, James Scott Vartuli, Kenneth Brakeley Welles, Emad Andarawis Andarawis, Wayne Charles Hasz, John Erik Hershey, Ertugrul Berkcan
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Publication number: 20090190626Abstract: 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: ApplicationFiled: October 1, 2004Publication date: July 30, 2009Applicant: University of SouthhamptonInventors: Mark Bradley, Jean-Francois Thaburet
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Patent number: 7534028Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: June 15, 2005Date of Patent: May 19, 2009Assignee: Ivoclar Vivadent AGInventors: Rudolf Jussel, Heinrich K. Feichtinger
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APPARATUS, SYSTEM, AND METHOD FOR DETECTING TEMPERATURE THRESHOLD EVENTS IN AN AFTERTREATMENT DEVICE
Publication number: 20090097528Abstract: 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: ApplicationFiled: October 11, 2007Publication date: April 16, 2009Inventors: Conrad J. Simon, III, Randall J. Stafford -
Publication number: 20090050049Abstract: 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: ApplicationFiled: July 27, 2006Publication date: February 26, 2009Inventors: Vincent Craig, Timothy John Senden, Christian Kugge
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Patent number: 7475653Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: September 24, 2004Date of Patent: January 13, 2009Assignee: Drummond Scientific CompanyInventors: Michael E. Drummond, Albert J. Moses
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Patent number: 7416329Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: December 22, 2005Date of Patent: August 26, 2008Assignee: Rosemount Aerospace Inc.Inventor: John A. Severson
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Publication number: 20080192801Abstract: 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: ApplicationFiled: April 17, 2008Publication date: August 14, 2008Applicant: Kidde IP Holdings LimitedInventor: Alexandra Georgina Redcliffe Gordon
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Patent number: 7387438Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: November 2, 2005Date of Patent: June 17, 2008Inventor: Robert Parker
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Patent number: 7380982Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: April 1, 2005Date of Patent: June 3, 2008Assignee: Lam Research CorporationInventor: Shrikant Lohokare
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Publication number: 20080107153Abstract: 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: ApplicationFiled: November 3, 2006Publication date: May 8, 2008Inventors: Anatoly Gosis, Shannon B. Reading, Joseph E. Fabin, Frank Otte
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Patent number: 7360946Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: July 8, 2002Date of Patent: April 22, 2008Assignee: Temp-Tell LimitedInventors: Richard Tester, Farage Al-Ghazzewi
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Patent number: 7343258Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: April 2, 2003Date of Patent: March 11, 2008Assignee: Telefonaktiebolaget LM Ericsson (publ)Inventors: Wei-Ping Huang, Kjell Ahlstedt, Ellef Hersoug, Christian Gottlicher Palafox
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Publication number: 20080025370Abstract: 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: ApplicationFiled: April 1, 2005Publication date: January 31, 2008Applicant: Lam Research CorporationInventor: Shrikant Lohokare
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Patent number: 7316506Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: December 18, 2001Date of Patent: January 8, 2008Assignee: Illinois Tool Works Inc.Inventor: Victor Deonarine
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Patent number: 7204199Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: March 23, 2004Date of Patent: April 17, 2007Assignee: Volk Enterprises, Inc.Inventors: Hans O. Ribi, Gary M. Thompson
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Patent number: 7097353Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: October 12, 2004Date of Patent: August 29, 2006Inventor: Horst K. Wieder
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Method for measuring diffusion coefficient in conductive melts, and apparatus for measuring the same
Patent number: 7040804Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: June 30, 2003Date of Patent: May 9, 2006Assignee: The Institute of Space and Astronautical ScienceInventors: Yuko Inatomi, Kazuhiko Kuribayashi -
Patent number: 7036452Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: February 10, 2000Date of Patent: May 2, 2006Assignee: Temp-Tell LimitedInventor: Richard Tester
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Patent number: 7002054Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: February 19, 2002Date of Patent: February 21, 2006Assignee: The Procter & Gamble CompanyInventors: Patrick Jay Allen, Donald Carroll Roe, Oliver Edwin Clarke Mason
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Patent number: 6960043Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: October 18, 2001Date of Patent: November 1, 2005Assignee: Illinois Tool Works Inc.Inventor: Victor I. Deonarine
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Patent number: 6945693Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: November 25, 2003Date of Patent: September 20, 2005Inventors: Dolores C. Kaiser, Tommi L. Kuutti
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Patent number: 6893155Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: February 6, 2004Date of Patent: May 17, 2005Inventors: Dolores C. Kaiser, Tommi L Kuut
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Patent number: 6861836Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: September 23, 2002Date of Patent: March 1, 2005Assignee: Sikorsky Aircraft CorporationInventors: Stephen R. Sammataro, Michael F. Mullen
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Patent number: 6857777Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: October 23, 2001Date of Patent: February 22, 2005Assignee: Illinois Tool Works Inc.Inventors: Pramathesh Desai, Victor I. Deonarine
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Patent number: 6827842Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: October 19, 2001Date of Patent: December 7, 2004Assignee: ExxonMobil Research & Engrg. Co.Inventors: Brent England Beasley, Randall Stephen Lachine