Leak Detection Patents (Class 436/3)
  • Patent number: 11903728
    Abstract: The present disclosure provides a method performed in an accessory device. The accessory device comprises an interface configured to communicate with one or more devices of an ostomy system. The interface comprises a display. The ostomy system comprises a monitor device, and/or an ostomy appliance configured to be placed on a skin surface of a user, wherein the ostomy appliance comprises the base plate. The method comprises displaying, on the display, a notification settings user interface comprising one or more control objects including a first control object, wherein the notification settings user interface is configured to adjust notification setting parameters of an ostomy user application.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 2019
    Date of Patent: February 20, 2024
    Assignee: Coloplast A/S
    Inventors: Mads Hindhede Svanegaard, Esben Stroebech, Jacob Eisenberg, Carsten Hellum Olsen, Jeppe Malmberg, Alex Poulsen
  • Patent number: 11897344
    Abstract: The present disclosure relates to a risk early warning method and system for hydrogen leakage, and relates to the field of hydrogen leakage. The method includes: obtaining ventilation information of a hydrogen-related area; carrying out grid division on a pipeline system of the hydrogen-related area to obtain a gridded pipeline system; determining a risk coefficient corresponding to each grid of the gridded pipeline system according to leakage sources of the pipeline system; determining a high-risk region by means of a jet cone model according to the risk coefficients; determining a medium-risk region, a low-risk region and a safe region according to the risk coefficients and the ventilation information; and carrying out risk early warning according to the high-risk region, the medium-risk region, the low-risk region and the safe region.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 20, 2023
    Date of Patent: February 13, 2024
    Assignee: BEIJING INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY
    Inventors: Jianwei Li, Zhonghao Tian, Xinming Wan, Hongwen He, Fengchun Sun, Wenjun Guo, Zhanxin Mao
  • Patent number: 11873117
    Abstract: An aircraft glazing unit including a body of transparent material and at least one subsurface thickness indicator at a predetermined depth within the material. The provision of a subsurface thickness indicator allows for the unit to be re-polished to remove erosion, whilst providing a visual indicator to ground crew of the remaining thickness of material in the unit. In this way, the service lifetime of the glazing unit can be extended.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 19, 2019
    Date of Patent: January 16, 2024
    Assignee: Airbus Operations Limited
    Inventor: Paul John Blades
  • Patent number: 11628610
    Abstract: The continuity of a functional layer of a web (32, 60, 78) is assessed by forwarding the web, detecting (42, 63) the presence of the functional layer and a discontinuity and/or a thin region in the functional layer, and generating a signal in response to the discontinuity and/or thin region. The functional layer comprises a detectable component (360) in a thermoplastic composition. The detecting is carried out by a machine vision system capable of detecting the detectable component (360) in the functional layer. The detectable component (360) can be active or passive. Also included are systems for carrying out the process.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 8, 2018
    Date of Patent: April 18, 2023
    Assignee: Cryovac, LLC
    Inventors: Dewitt Jones, Solomon Bekele, Honglei Li, Matthew Dawe, Louise Cynthia Ebner
  • Patent number: 10569228
    Abstract: An inspection apparatus of an electrolyte membrane is provided. The apparatus includes a lower supporter having a gas line through which gas flows or a concave portion that stores the gas. An upper supporter is disposed at an upper side of the lower supporter, and includes an opening. A membrane-electrode assembly is disposed between the lower supporter and the upper supporter. An upper cover covers an upper portion of the opening, and is formed with a plurality of partitions. An exhaust port is formed at the upper supporter to exhaust deionized water.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 23, 2018
    Date of Patent: February 25, 2020
    Assignees: Hyundai Motor Company, Kia Motors Corporation
    Inventors: Jae Jun Ko, Hyun Young Pi, Kwi Seong Jeong
  • Patent number: 9921124
    Abstract: A weld seam monitoring apparatus includes a layer of sealant applied to the area surrounding the weld seam; a first layer of sheet material adapted to provide an air space and overlying the weld seam; a second layer of sheet material overlying the first layer of sheet material; and a fluid impermeable sealant overlying the second layer of sheet material. An air tight space is formed between the second layer of sheet material and the weld seam. The apparatus further includes a vacuum source, and the air tight space is in fluid communication with the vacuum source. The apparatus further includes vacuum monitoring means configured to monitor the status of a vacuum created in the air tight space.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 5, 2015
    Date of Patent: March 20, 2018
    Inventors: Christos Sotirious Haritou, Alan Fada
  • Patent number: 9618417
    Abstract: Improved gas leak detection from moving platforms is provided. Automatic horizontal spatial scale analysis can be performed in order to distinguish a leak from background levels of the measured gas. Source identification can be provided by using isotopic ratios and/or chemical tracers to distinguish gas leaks from other sources of the measured gas. Multi-point measurements combined with spatial analysis of the multi-point measurement results can provide leak source distance estimates. These methods can be practiced individually or in any combination.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 19, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 11, 2017
    Assignee: Picarro, Inc.
    Inventors: Chris W. Rella, Eric R. Crosson, Michael Woelk, Sze Meng Tan
  • Patent number: 9588084
    Abstract: The present invention concerns a device for detecting gases or volatile organic compounds (VOC) comprising an electrically conducting or semiconducting zone functionalized with an organic film resulting from the polymerization of aromatic diazonium salt derived monomer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 24, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 7, 2017
    Assignees: California Institute of Technology, Commissariat a L'Energie Atomatique Et Aux Energies Alternatives
    Inventors: Guillaume Delapierre, Yanxia Hou-Broutin, Heather McCaig, Edward Myers, Michael L. Roukes
  • Patent number: 9005978
    Abstract: A pouch (2) includes: a first, inner, envelope (1) which is closed, delimiting a first space (6) forming a pouch stricto sensu (1) intended for receiving a biopharmaceutical product or device; a second, outer, envelope (8) which is closed, delimiting a second space (9) in which is located the first envelope/pouch stricto sensu (1); a spacer element (11); at least one tracer gas located in the first space (6) or in the intermediate space (14) at a partial pressure different from that of the intermediate space or of the first space; and at least one colorimetric detection layer (12), responding to the concentration of tracer gas which reaches it by changing from a first color to a second color, and being an integral part of a wall (3, 4) of the first envelope/defined pouch (1) and/or of a wall (13) of the second envelope and/or of the spacer element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 22, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 14, 2015
    Assignee: Sartorius Stedim FMT SAS
    Inventors: Lars Bottcher, Martin Dahlberg
  • Patent number: 8834954
    Abstract: Methods for processing a vessel, for example to provide a gas barrier or lubricity, are disclosed. First and second PECVD or other vessel processing stations or devices and a vessel holder comprising a vessel port are provided. An opening of the vessel can be seated on the vessel port. The interior surface of the seated vessel can be processed via the vessel port by the first and second processing stations or devices. Vessel barrier, lubricity and hydrophobic coatings and coated vessels, for example syringes and medical sample collection tubes are disclosed. A vessel processing system and vessel inspection apparatus and methods are also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 12, 2013
    Date of Patent: September 16, 2014
    Assignee: SIO2 Medical Products, Inc.
    Inventors: John T. Felts, Thomas E. Fisk, Robert S. Abrams, John Ferguson, Jonathan R. Freedman, Robert J. Pangborn, Peter J. Sagona
  • Publication number: 20140186960
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a non human animal model for increased retinal vascular permeability wherein said increased retinal vascular permeability is induced by inhibiting in Müller cells of said animal the expression of a gene encoding for Dp71 or a dystrophin associated protein (DAP). Furthermore, the present invention relates to methods and compositions for the treatment of a disease associated with an increased retinal vascular permeability in a subject in need thereof.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 7, 2014
    Publication date: July 3, 2014
    Applicant: Institut National De La Sante et De La Recherche Medicale (INSERM)
    Inventors: Abdoulaye Sene, Ramin Tadayoni, Jose Sahel, Alvaro Rendon
  • Patent number: 8707766
    Abstract: A device indicates the location of an air leak in a vacuum bag used to process composite parts. The device includes a layer of material on the inner face of the bag that changes in appearance due to an oxidation-reduction reaction in areas of the layer exposed to oxygen caused by a leak in the bag.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 21, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 29, 2014
    Assignee: The Boeing Company
    Inventors: John N. Harris, Finley Miller, Michael R. Swift
  • Patent number: 8647876
    Abstract: An oxygen permeability measuring apparatus for measuring an oxygen permeation rate of oxygen barrier film in a dark room is provided. A container is charged with inert gas, and sealed hermetically by use of the oxygen barrier film at least partially. A chemiluminescent compound is contained in the container, for emitting light by oxidation with the oxygen. A photon detector detects photons emitted by the chemiluminescent compound so as to determine an amount of the oxygen permeated through the oxygen barrier film. Preferably, the container includes a container body. An opening is formed in the container body, and closed hermetically by the oxygen barrier film attached thereto. The photon detector is disposed inside or outside the container. The oxygen permeation rate is equal to or less than 10?2 cc/m2·day·atm. The chemiluminescent compound includes tetrakis(dimethylamino)ethylene.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 31, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 11, 2014
    Assignee: Fujifilm Corporation
    Inventors: Tomoyuki Shimoda, Yoshio Inagaki, Kimiaki Miyamoto
  • Patent number: 8623662
    Abstract: Methods, processes and compositions are provided for a visual or chemochromic hydrogen-detector with variable or tunable reversible color change. The working temperature range for the hydrogen detector is from minus 100° C. to plus 500° C. A hydrogen-sensitive pigment, including, but not limited to, oxides, hydroxides and polyoxo-compounds of tungsten, molybdenum, vanadium, chromium and combinations thereof, is combined with nano-sized metal activator particles and preferably, coated on a porous or woven substrate. In the presence of hydrogen, the composition rapidly changes its color from white or light-gray or light-tan to dark gray, navy-blue or black depending on the exposure time and hydrogen concentration in the medium. After hydrogen exposure ceases, the original color of the hydrogen-sensitive pigment is restored, and the visual hydrogen detector can be used repeatedly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 14, 2012
    Date of Patent: January 7, 2014
    Assignee: University of Central Florida Research Foundation, Inc.
    Inventor: Nazim Z. Muradov
  • Patent number: 8512796
    Abstract: Methods for processing a vessel, for example to provide a gas barrier or lubricity, are disclosed. First and second PECVD or other vessel processing stations or devices and a vessel holder comprising a vessel port are provided. An opening of the vessel can be seated on the vessel port. The interior surface of the seated vessel can be processed via the vessel port by the first and second processing stations or devices. Vessel barrier, lubricity and hydrophobic coatings and coated vessels, for example syringes and medical sample collection tubes are disclosed. A vessel processing system and vessel inspection apparatus and methods are also disclosed, for example using material outgassed from a surface to inspect the properties of a surface coating.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 27, 2011
    Date of Patent: August 20, 2013
    Assignee: Si02 Medical Products, Inc.
    Inventors: John T. Felts, Thomas E. Fisk, Robert S. Abrams, John Ferguson, Jonathan R. Freedman, Robert J. Pangborn, Peter J. Sagona
  • Patent number: 8506369
    Abstract: Various systems, game controllers, and methods for simulating various objects such as weapons are provided. For example, a game controller may include a trigger, a processor within the body that receives a trigger signal when the trigger is activated by the user. The processor may communicate with a computer running a software program such as a gaming application, and an actuator coupled to the trigger, the actuator configured to output a haptic effect to the trigger in response to receiving a control signal from the processor. The game controller may simulate a gun and generate a recoil effect. In some embodiments, the recoil effect may be generated by impacting a moving mass from a discharge end of the gun to a handle end of the gun. In some embodiments, the recoil effect may be generated by using a body part of a user as a tether.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 5, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 13, 2013
    Assignee: Immersion Corporation
    Inventors: Danny A. Grant, Erin Ramsay, Ali Modarres, David M. Birnbaum, Juan Manuel Cruz-Hernandez, Robert W. Heubel, Hendrik Bartel
  • Patent number: 8498746
    Abstract: A sootblowing control system that uses predictive models to bridge the gap between sootblower operation and boiler performance goals. The system uses predictive modeling and heuristics (rules) associated with different zones in a boiler to determine an optimal sequence of sootblower operations and achieve boiler performance targets. The system performs the sootblower optimization while observing any operational constraints placed on the sootblowers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 7, 2012
    Date of Patent: July 30, 2013
    Assignee: NeuCo, Inc.
    Inventors: John Robert James, John McDermott, Stephen Piche, Fred Pickard, Neel J. Parikh
  • Patent number: 8480978
    Abstract: A microfluidic fluid separator for separating target components of a fluid by filtration is described. Methods for separating target components of a fluid by filtration and methods for processing blood on a large scale with the microfluidic fluid separator are provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 9, 2011
    Date of Patent: July 9, 2013
    Assignees: University of Southern California, APIC Corporation, California Institute of Technology
    Inventors: Emil P. Kartalov, Axel Scherer, Koichi Sayano
  • Patent number: 8470933
    Abstract: A coating is used to detect a fluid leak.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 8, 2011
    Date of Patent: June 25, 2013
    Assignee: Los Alamos National Security, LLC
    Inventors: David L. Thorn, Karl K. Jonietz, James M. Boncella
  • Patent number: 8450113
    Abstract: The invention relates to a method and a device for determining the gas permeability of barrier coatings (1) in the region of container walls (2). A quantity of gas to be analyzed emerging from the region of the wall of the container into an analysis chamber that is at least partially defined by the barrier coating is measured in said analysis chamber (8). Before entering the analysis chamber, the gas to be analyzed is located in the region of the wall. The measuring element can be integrated into a coating device for the container. To this end, a testing device provided with the measuring element is arranged in the transport direction of the container behind the coating device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 12, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 28, 2013
    Assignee: KHS Corpoplast GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventors: Erik Lüpke, Klaus Hartwig
  • Patent number: 8438909
    Abstract: A device for detecting an air leak in a tool comprises a vacuum bag and a leak detection film disposed along an inside face of the vacuum bag. The leak detection film may include oxygen sensitive material configured to change physical appearance at a location of an air leak in the tool. A breather layer may be interposed between the tool and the leak detection film for facilitating air flow therebetween.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 16, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 14, 2013
    Assignee: The Boeing Company
    Inventors: Finley B. Miller, Michael E. Benne, Kenneth M. Dull
  • Patent number: 8306665
    Abstract: The present invention provides a control system for the conversion of carbonaceous feedstock into a gas. In particular, the control system is designed to be configurable for use in controlling one or more processes implemented in, and/or by, a gasification system for the conversion of such feedstock into a gas, which may be used for one or more downstream applications. Gasification processes controllable by different embodiments of the disclosed control system may include in various combinations, a converter, a residue conditioner, a recuperator and/or heat exchanger system, one or more gas conditioners, a gas homogenization system and one or more downstream applications. The control system operatively controls various local, regional and/or global processes related to the overall gasification process, and thereby adjusts various control parameters thereof adapted to affect these processes for a selected result.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 7, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 6, 2012
    Assignee: Plasco Energy Group Inc.
    Inventors: Andreas Tsangaris, Kenneth Craig Campbell, Douglas Michael Feasby, Alisdair Alan McLean
  • Publication number: 20120264219
    Abstract: A leak detection device (10) comprising a first membrane (12), the first membrane (12) containing at least one indicator chemical (16) responsive to anaerobic conditions, wherein the first membrane (12) is at least in part semi-permeable such that it allows passage of oxygen therethrough substantially in only one direction.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 1, 2010
    Publication date: October 18, 2012
    Inventors: Brian Robert Sinclair, Shreepad Krishna Bhat
  • Patent number: 8267785
    Abstract: First, operation data including at least acceleration data and angular velocity data is obtained from an input device including at least an acceleration sensor and a gyrosensor. Next, based on the acceleration data and the angular velocity data, a moving velocity of the input device itself and/or a relative positional relationship between the input device and a center of a rotation motion applied on the input device itself is estimated. Then, predetermined game processing is executed based on the estimated moving velocity and/or relative positional relationship.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 22, 2008
    Date of Patent: September 18, 2012
    Assignee: Nintendo Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Yoshikazu Yamashita, Ichiro Suzuki
  • Patent number: 8206985
    Abstract: A method of determining the effect of a spill on a marine environment, in which physical and chemical sensors are arranged with living organisms (4, 6) fitted with instruments, at an appropriate distance and position from the object (1) which is to be monitored, wherein the response of the living organism (4, 6), measured online in real time, is compared with known patterns of response, and where upstream and downstream measurements are compared to determine whether a change in response may be caused by a spill from the object, the significance of the real time measurements being validated through sampling of the organisms on a regular basis or as required, in order to analyze the effects on the health of the organisms, biomarkers, for the purpose of assessing the significance of the environmental effect.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 23, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 26, 2012
    Assignee: Biota Guard AS
    Inventors: Odd Kjetil Andersen, Steinar Sanni
  • Publication number: 20120135527
    Abstract: A multilayer material is described herein that includes a flexible inner layer and a flexible outer layer configured to enclose at least one signaling layer, the at least one signaling layer including at least one chemical compound. The multilayer material including the chemical compound within the at least one signaling layer is configured to release a gas-phase chemical compound to signal to a detector indicating a breach of the multilayer material. A multilayer material, a system, an article of clothing, or a method is described herein.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 29, 2010
    Publication date: May 31, 2012
    Inventors: Mahalaxmi Gita Bangera, Roderick A. Hyde, Muriel Y. Ishikawa, Edward K.Y. Jung, Jordin T. Kare, Erez Lieberman, Nathan P. Myhrvold, Dennis J. Rivet, Michael A. Smith, Elizabeth A. Sweeney, Lowell L. Wood, JR.
  • Patent number: 8153434
    Abstract: A fluid storage and dispensing vessel having associated therewith a colorimetric member that is effective to change color in exposure to leakage of a gas contained in the vessel. The colorimetric member may be constituted by a film, e.g., of a shrink-wrap character, that contains or is otherwise associated with a colorimetric agent undergoing color change in exposure to fluid leaking from the vessel. Such shrink-wrap film may be applied to a portion of the vessel susceptible to leakage, or alternatively to the entire vessel, so that the film is colorimetrically effective to indicate the occurrence of a leakage event by visually perceptible change of color.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 5, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 10, 2012
    Assignee: Advanced Technology Materials, Inc.
    Inventors: Paul J. Marganski, Jose I. Arno, Edward A. Sturm, Kristy L. Zaleta
  • Patent number: 8147757
    Abstract: The present invention describes a system and method for accurately measuring the concentration of a substance within a filter housing. A concentration sensor and a communications device are coupled so as to be able to measure and transmit the concentration of a particular substance within the filter housing while in use. This system can comprise a single component, integrating both the communication device and the concentration sensor. Alternatively, the system can comprise separate sensor and transmitter components, in communication with one another. In yet another embodiment, a storage element can be added to the system, thereby allowing the device to store a set of concentration values. The use of this device is beneficial to many applications. For example, the ability to read concentration values in situ allows integrity tests to be performed without additional equipment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 16, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 3, 2012
    Assignee: EMD Millipore Corporation
    Inventor: Anthony DiLeo
  • Patent number: 8143063
    Abstract: A paint that warns of radiological or chemical substances comprising a paint operatively connected to the surface, an indicator material carried by the paint that provides an indication of the radiological or chemical substances, and a thermo-activation material carried by the paint. In one embodiment, a method of warning of radiological or chemical substances comprising the steps of painting a surface with an indicator material, and monitoring the surface for indications of the radiological or chemical substances. In another embodiment, a paint is operatively connected to a vehicle and an indicator material is carried by the paint that provides an indication of the radiological or chemical substances.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 16, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 27, 2012
    Assignee: Lawrence Livermore National Security, LLC
    Inventors: Joseph C. Farmer, James L. Brunk, S. Daniel Day
  • Patent number: 8137983
    Abstract: The present invention describes a system and method for accurately measuring the concentration of a substance within a filter housing. A concentration sensor and a communications device are coupled so as to be able to measure and transmit the concentration of a particular substance within the filter housing while in use. This system can comprise a single component, integrating both the communication device and the concentration sensor. Alternatively, the system can comprise separate sensor and transmitter components, in communication with one another. In yet another embodiment, a storage element can be added to the system, thereby allowing the device to store a set of concentration values. The use of this device is beneficial to many applications. For example, the ability to read concentration values in situ allows integrity tests to be performed without additional equipment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 17, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 20, 2012
    Assignee: EMD Millipore Corporation
    Inventor: Anthony DiLeo
  • Patent number: 8133735
    Abstract: A system for warning of corrosion, chemical, or radiological substances. The system comprises painting a surface with a paint or coating that includes an indicator material and monitoring the surface for indications of the corrosion, chemical, or radiological substances.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 16, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 13, 2012
    Assignee: Lawrence Livermore National Security, LLC
    Inventor: Joseph C. Farmer
  • Patent number: 8110401
    Abstract: A blended dye for use in a coolant. In one embodiment of the invention, the blended dye includes a first water miscible dye adapted to fluoresce when illuminated with a light. The first dye preferably has a wavelength of about 340 nm to about 420 nm. The blended dye also includes a second water miscible dye adapted to fluoresce when illuminated with a light having a wavelength of about 400 nm to about 460 nm. The second dye has a different composition from the first dye.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 18, 2004
    Date of Patent: February 7, 2012
    Assignee: Spectronics Corporation
    Inventor: John Duerr
  • Patent number: 8084259
    Abstract: The present invention describes a system for accurately measuring the concentration of a substance within a filter housing. A concentration sensor and a communications device are coupled so as to measure and transmit the concentration of a particular substance within the filter housing while in use. This system allows the operator to certify the integrity of the filters within the filter housing at the customer site without additional equipment. In one embodiment, a tracer gas, such as helium or hydrogen, is added to a carrier and injected into the system. The concentration of tracer gas at a specific operating transmembrane pressure is indicative of bubble pointing specific pores in the filter. This test will give a more sensitive indication of the bubble point and the presence of defects than a standard diffusion test. In a second embodiment, two gasses, in a known ratio, are introduced into the filter housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 5, 2008
    Date of Patent: December 27, 2011
    Assignee: Millipore Corporation
    Inventor: Anthony DiLeo
  • Patent number: 8070355
    Abstract: Disclosed are a method of detecting a leak of fluoroolefin compositions and sensors used therefor. In particular, the method is particularly useful for detecting a leak of a fluoroolefin refrigerant composition from a cooling system of an automotive vehicle. Such fluoroolefin refrigerant compositions have double bond structures which make them particularly well suited with sensing technologies, including: infrared sensors, UV sensors, NIR sensors, ion mobility or plasma chromatographs, gas chromatography, refractometry, mass spectroscopy, high temperature thick film sensors, thin film field effect sensors, pellistor sensors, Taguchi sensors and quartz microbalance sensors.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 14, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 6, 2011
    Assignee: E. I. du Pont de Nemours and Company
    Inventors: Barbara Haviland Minor, Nandini C. Mouli, Daniel B. Laubacher, John Carl Steichen
  • Patent number: 8058070
    Abstract: Disclosed are a method of determining the components of a fluoroolefin composition, a method of recharging a fluid system in which the composition is used, and sensors used therefor. In particular, the composition may be a fluoroolefin refrigerant composition used within a vapor compression system, where the refrigerant composition is useful in cooling systems as replacements for existing refrigerants with higher global warming potential. Such fluoroolefin refrigerant compositions have double bond structures which make them particularly well suited with sensing technologies, including: infrared sensors, UV/vis sensors, NIR sensors, ion mobility or plasma chromatographs, gas chromatography, refractometry, mass spectroscopy, high temperature thick film sensors, thin film field effect sensors, pellistor sensors, Taguchi sensors and quartz microbalance sensors.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 14, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 15, 2011
    Assignee: E. I. du Pont de Nemours and Company
    Inventors: Barbara Haviland Minor, Nandini C. Mouli, Daniel B. Laubacher, John Carl Steichen
  • Patent number: 8003055
    Abstract: Methods, processes and compositions are provided for a visual or chemochromic hydrogen-detector with variable or tunable reversible color change. The working temperature range for the hydrogen detector is from minus 100° C. to plus 500° C. A hydrogen-sensitive pigment, including, but not limited to, oxides, hydroxides and polyoxo-compounds of tungsten, molybdenum, vanadium, chromium and combinations thereof, is combined with nano-sized metal activator particles and preferably, coated on a porous or woven substrate. In the presence of hydrogen, the composition rapidly changes its color from white or light-gray or light-tan to dark gray, navy-blue or black depending on the exposure time and hydrogen concentration in the medium. After hydrogen exposure ceases, the original color of the hydrogen-sensitive pigment is restored, and the visual hydrogen detector can be used repeatedly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 27, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 23, 2011
    Assignee: University of Central Florida Research Foundation, Inc.
    Inventor: Nazim Muradov
  • Patent number: 8003391
    Abstract: A fluid storage and dispensing vessel having associated therewith a colorimetric member that is effective to change color in exposure to leakage of a gas contained in the vessel. The colorimetric member may be constituted by a film, e.g., of a shrink-wrap character, that contains or is otherwise associated with a colorimetric agent undergoing color change in exposure to fluid leaking from the vessel. Such shrink-wrap film may be applied to a portion of the vessel susceptible to leakage, or alternatively to the entire vessel, so that the film is colorimetrically effective to indicate the occurrence of a leakage event by visually perceptible change of color.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 30, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 23, 2011
    Assignee: Advanced Technology Materials, Inc.
    Inventors: Paul J. Marganski, Jose I. Arno, Edward A. Sturm, Kristy L. Zaleta
  • Patent number: 7981237
    Abstract: A micro- or nano-fluidic chip fabricated with a Norland Optical Adhesive (NOA), an acrylated polyurethane-based UV-polymerizable optical adhesive. The micro- or nano-fluidic chip has sequentially an inlet, a channel, and an outlet. The channel has a pillar in the region of the outlet to prevent beads from flowing out, and the surface of the channels in the micro- or nano-fluidic chip is hydrophilic, which generates spontaneous flow in the channels by a capillary force without any extra external pumping.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 12, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 19, 2011
    Assignee: Ewha University-Industry Collaboration Foundation
    Inventors: Sung Su Park, So Hyun Kim, Youn Sang Kim, Seong Won Nam, Kang Mu Lee
  • Publication number: 20110165684
    Abstract: A coating is used to detect a fluid leak.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 8, 2011
    Publication date: July 7, 2011
    Applicant: Los Alamos National Security, LLC
    Inventors: David L. Thorn, Karl K. Jonietz, James M. Boncella
  • Patent number: 7943380
    Abstract: A leak detection material and method of introducing the leak detection material into a fluid system such as a climate control system, an engine oil system, or a fuel system is described. The leak detection material can be a dye delivery composition including a mixture of leak detection dye and a solid carrier.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 2, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 17, 2011
    Assignee: Bright Solutions, Inc.
    Inventors: Morton A. Westman, John A. Andrews, Charles Allen Steele, Terrence D. Kalley
  • Patent number: 7927558
    Abstract: A method, system, and apparatus are provided for use with exposure protection systems or equipment such as respiratory protection devices. One system is provided for detecting a breach of an exposure protection device by an amount of a target substance. The system includes an exposure protection device that isolates a protected environment from an external environment potentially including a target substance. The device includes a protective covering that includes a substantially transparent window. The system also includes a detector or detector element for indicating the presence of the target substance. Such a detector is capable of producing a visually observable indication upon detection of the level of target substance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 18, 2004
    Date of Patent: April 19, 2011
    Assignee: Microteq, LLC
    Inventors: Kirollos S. Kirollos, Gueorgui M. Mihaylov, Bryan I. Truex
  • Patent number: 7915047
    Abstract: A coating is used to detect a fluid leak.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 19, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 29, 2011
    Assignee: Los Alamos National Security, LLC
    Inventors: David L. Thorn, Karl K. Jonietz, James M. Boncella
  • Patent number: 7892839
    Abstract: In order to check the hermeticity of a closed cavity of at least one micrometric component, said component includes a structure made over or in one portion of a substrate, a cap fixed to one zone of the substrate to protect the structure, and an indicator element whose optical or electrical properties change in the presence of a reactive fluid. The indicator element may be a copper layer for an optical check or a palladium resistor for an electrical check. The micrometric component is placed in a container which is then hermetically closed. This container is filled with a reactive fluid under pressure, which is oxygen for the optical check and hydrogen for the electrical check. The component in the container is subjected to a reactive fluid pressure higher than 10 bars for a determined time period, and to thermal (T>100° C.) or optical (?<500 nm) activation. After this time period, an optical or electrical check of the indicator element determines the hermeticity of said cavity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 18, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 22, 2011
    Assignee: Asulab S.A.
    Inventors: François Gueissaz, Jean-Paul Randin
  • Patent number: 7888124
    Abstract: A method and apparatus is provided for a system for maintaining hydrogen purity in an electrical power generator where the system monitors the health of the electrical generating system by calculating the time remaining until preventative maintenance is required based on hydrogen usage. The system also monitors the health of the system by detecting the occurrence of major leaks within the electrical power generator and adapting the operation of the system to maintain a desired operating environment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 19, 2007
    Date of Patent: February 15, 2011
    Assignee: Proton Energy Systems
    Inventor: A. John Speranza
  • Patent number: 7849729
    Abstract: Air leaks in a vacuum bag are detected using a leak detection film covering the inside face of the bag. The film includes a gas permeable binder carrying oxygen sensitive material that changes in physical appearance at the location of an air leak. The film may be adhered to the inside face of the bag or may form a separate membrane that is placed over a layup being molded in the bag. The film may be illuminated with light having a wavelength selected to cause the film to luminesce.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 28, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 14, 2010
    Assignee: The Boeing Company
    Inventors: Finley B. Miller, Michael E. Benne
  • Patent number: 7833484
    Abstract: In order to check the hermeticity of a closed cavity of at least one micrometric component, said component includes a structure made over or in one portion of a substrate, a cap fixed to one zone of the substrate to protect the structure, and an indicator element whose optical or electrical properties change in the presence of a reactive fluid. The indicator element may be a copper layer for an optical check or a palladium resistor for an electrical check. The micrometric component is placed in a container which is then hermetically closed. This container is filled with a reactive fluid under pressure, which is oxygen for the optical check and hydrogen for the electrical check. The component in the container is subjected to a reactive fluid pressure higher than 10 bars for a determined time period, and to thermal (T>100° C.) or optical (?<500 nm) activation. After this time period, an optical or electrical check of the indicator element determines the hermeticity of said cavity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 18, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 16, 2010
    Assignee: Asulab S.A.
    Inventors: François Gueissaz, Jean-Paul Randin
  • Patent number: 7815856
    Abstract: A container having an indicator for detecting the presence of chemical elements is provided. In one embodiment, the container comprises a cavity therein for receiving an article having a first metallic element, the cavity being substantially sealed from a surrounding environment outside the container. An indicator is disposed within the sealed cavity, the indicator having a second metallic element with a standard potential less than the standard potential of the first metallic element, whereby a change in state of the second metallic element alerts an operator to the presence of a predetermined chemical element within the container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 23, 2006
    Date of Patent: October 19, 2010
    Assignee: Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Kwang-Chen Wu, Long-Sheng Yeou
  • Publication number: 20100221837
    Abstract: A light-control membrane (11) is joined to a first surface (10a) of an electrolyte membrane (10), and hydrogen gas is supplied to a second surface (10b) side of the electrolyte membrane (10). If the electrolyte membrane (10) has a defect (10c), such as a crack or a pinhole, the hydrogen gas leaks through the defect (10c) to the first surface (10a) of the electrolyte membrane (10). In result, the light-membrane (11) is hydrogenated by the leaked hydrogen gas, and the reflectance of the light-control membrane (11) is locally changed. This makes it possible to visually spot the presence of the defect (10c).
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 2, 2008
    Publication date: September 2, 2010
    Inventor: Naoki Uchiyama
  • Patent number: 7727765
    Abstract: Methods and apparatus are disclosed for leak testing the ventilation system of an environmental enclosure using a gas that is naturally present in ambient air, such as nitrogen, oxygen, argon, or carbon dioxide, as a tracer gas. In one embodiment, a gas filter capable of filtering all of the tracer gas from the air flowing through the filter is installed in the ventilation system. Testing is performed by operating the ventilation system to cause outside air to flow through the filter and into the enclosure so as to establish positive pressurization inside the enclosure. A gas monitor placed inside the enclosure is used to detect for the presence of leaks in the ventilation system by monitoring the concentration of the tracer gas inside the enclosure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 22, 2003
    Date of Patent: June 1, 2010
    Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the Department of Health and Human Services, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
    Inventors: John A. Organiscak, Michael Schmitz
  • Patent number: RE42192
    Abstract: Generally, this invention relates to the development of field monitoring methodology for new substances and sensing chemical warfare agents (CWAs) and terrorist substances. It also relates to a portable test kit which may be utilized to measure concentrations of halogenated volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in the field. Specifically it relates to systems for reliably field sensing the potential presence of such items while also distinguishing them from other elements potentially present. It also relates to overall systems and processes for sensing, reacting, and responding to an indicated presence of such substance, including modifications of existing halogenated sensors and arrayed sensing systems and methods.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 19, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 1, 2011
    Assignee: The University of Wyoming Research Corporation
    Inventors: John F. Schabron, Joseph F. Rovani, Jr., Theresa M. Bomstad, Susan S. Sorini-Wong, Gregory K. Wong