Gas Of Combustion Patents (Class 73/23.31)
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Patent number: 8268392Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: August 12, 2011Date of Patent: September 18, 2012Assignee: University of Central Florida Research Foundation, Inc.Inventor: Nazim Z. Muradov
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Patent number: 8268147Abstract: A control device for a gas sensor is configured to: receive a mode command to specify one of a plurality of sensor energization modes including at least a gas concentration detection mode, a protection mode and a pre-energization mode; switch a sensor element of the gas sensor into the one of the plurality of sensor energization modes according to the mode command; judge satisfaction of a certain condition where the mode command is to specify the gas concentration detection mode and the sensor element is in any of the plurality of sensor energization modes other than the pre-energization mode at the time of receipt of the mode command; and prohibit the sensor element from switching over to the gas concentration detection mode when the certain condition is satisfied.Type: GrantFiled: September 13, 2007Date of Patent: September 18, 2012Assignee: NGK Spark Plug Co., Ltd.Inventors: Norikazu Ieda, Tomonori Uemura, Hiroshi Inagaki
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Patent number: 8265851Abstract: The present invention provides a method of controlling engine performance that includes obtaining at least one optical wavelength-dependent measurement from at least one combustion event in at least one combustion chamber. The method further includes analyzing the optical wavelength-dependent measurement for determining adjustments to the at least one combustion event. Additionally, the method includes adjusting the at least one combustion event or at least a next combustion event by changing at least one physical parameter, at least one constituent parameter, or at least one physical parameter and at least one constituent parameter to control the engine performance. The engine can include steady-flow engines or periodic flow engines, and the engine performance can be selected by an engine user.Type: GrantFiled: November 6, 2009Date of Patent: September 11, 2012Assignee: Closed-Loop Engine Technology, LLCInventors: Raymond Girouard, Robert J. Moffat, Jacqueline R. Girouard
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Patent number: 8257578Abstract: An anomaly diagnosing apparatus and method for a gas sensor which includes a heater control section; a measurement section which outputs a detection signal for detecting an internal resistance of the gas sensor through a solid electrolyte via connection terminals and the electrodes within the gas sensor and which measures the internal resistance of the gas sensor based on a response signal input via the connection terminals in response to the output of the detection signal; and a diagnosing section which heats the solid electrolyte by use of the heater control section, obtains, after the start of heating, a first time required to reach a first resistance and a second time required to reach a second resistance different from the first resistance, and determines whether or not the gas sensor is anomalous by comparing a predetermined threshold value and a ratio of the first to second times.Type: GrantFiled: October 1, 2009Date of Patent: September 4, 2012Assignee: NGK Spark Plug Co., Ltd.Inventors: Satoshi Teramoto, Shigeki Mori, Hiroki Inouchi
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Patent number: 8256307Abstract: Testing of engine particulate matter production during a transient is made more accurate by selecting an appropriate sized opening for a test probe of the sampling system located in the exhaust line upstream from a particulate trap. By examining the pressure signature at the test probe location and utilizing that information in conjunction with a desired volumetric flow rate into the sampling system, a flow opening size for the test probe can be selected that reduces potential oversampling which may be otherwise induced due to the back pressure increases in the exhaust line caused by the presence of the particulate trap. The flow opening into the test probe of the sampling system behaves relative unrestricted when pressure differentials at the test probe location are relatively low, such as during steady state operating conditions, but restricts flow into the sampling system when pressure differentials are relatively high, such as at a pressure during a transient event.Type: GrantFiled: October 24, 2008Date of Patent: September 4, 2012Assignee: Caterpillar Inc.Inventors: Russell R. Graze, Jr., Linda M. Riedlinger, Jerry K. Randall
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Patent number: 8257577Abstract: There is provided a gas sensor, which includes a sensor element extending axially of the gas sensor and having a gas sensing portion at a front end thereof and an electrode portion at a rear end thereof, a cylindrical metal shell retaining therein the sensor element with the gas sensing portion and the electrode portion protruding from front and rear ends of the metal shell, respectively, and having a flange portion and a rear end portion located on a rear side of the flange portion, a cylindrical protection cover having a front end fitted onto the rear end portion of the metal shell so as to cover the electrode portion and a weld joint through which the entire circumference of the front end of the protection cover is joined through the metal shell. The weld joint extends from an end face of the protection cover to the metal shell.Type: GrantFiled: April 8, 2008Date of Patent: September 4, 2012Assignee: NGK Spark Plug Co., Ltd.Inventors: Makoto Kume, Yuichi Yamada
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Patent number: 8257565Abstract: A sensor control apparatus includes an applied voltage control circuit connected to the positive terminal of a sensor element. The applied voltage control circuit includes a reference power supply and a noninverting amplifier circuit connected to the reference power supply. An AC power supply circuit, a buffer and a current measurement resistance are connected in series to the negative terminal of the sensor element with the current measurement resistance disposed between the AC power supply circuit and the sensor element. One terminal of the current measurement resistance, which is on the side opposite to the sensor element, is held at a reference voltage (center voltage of an AC voltage generated from the AC power supply circuit). Voltage at an intermediate point between the current measurement resistance and the sensor element is inputted via a low-pass filter to the noninverting amplifier circuit of the applied voltage control circuit.Type: GrantFiled: February 21, 2008Date of Patent: September 4, 2012Assignee: Denso CorporationInventors: Tomoo Kawase, Eiichi Kurokawa, Toshiyuki Suzuki, Yohei Kawaki
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Publication number: 20120210769Abstract: An apparatus and method for supporting a contamination detection system for determining the presence and levels of foreign particles and/or water in fluid samples, such as fuel. The apparatus may include a contamination detection system, a hollow rod, and a bypass tube. The contamination detection system may have a flush mode in which the fluid bypasses a detection monitor of the contamination detection system, flowing into the hollow rod. The contamination detection system may also have a test mode in which the fluid passes through the detection monitor, through the bypass tube and then into the hollow rod. The hollow rod may be mounted to a collection container for receiving fluid from the hollow rod. A ground wire for eliminating static build up during contamination testing may be conductively coupled with the hollow rod and may be supported on a ground wire support structure fixed to the collection container.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 20, 2012Publication date: August 23, 2012Applicant: AEROSOFT, LLCInventor: John Roper
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Patent number: 8240188Abstract: An actual intake air quantity at the time when the intake air quantity is changed compulsorily with an EGR valve is measured with an airflow meter. An oxygen concentration of exhaust gas after combustion in a diesel engine is estimated based on the measured actual intake air quantity and a fuel injection quantity of the diesel engine. The estimated oxygen concentration is compared with an actual oxygen concentration sensed with an A/F sensor, thereby sensing response of the A/F sensor. Even if a response time for causing a change in the intake air quantity with the EGR valve changes, the change of the response time does not affect the estimate of the oxygen concentration since the oxygen concentration is estimated based on the actual intake air quantity. Therefore, the response of the A/F sensor can be sensed with high accuracy.Type: GrantFiled: July 15, 2010Date of Patent: August 14, 2012Assignee: Denso CorporationInventor: Akira Umehara
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Publication number: 20120198911Abstract: In a method and a device for identifying the fuel quality in a fuel tank of an internal combustion engine, a reference volume with fuel is provided, which does not intermix with the fuel in the fuel tank when the fuel tank is refilled. After startup of the internal combustion engine, fuel from the fuel tank and from the reference volume is sequentially sucked into the internal combustion engine and parameters which depend from the fuel quality of the sucked-in fuel are measured and evaluated for both the fuel tank and the reference volume. If the parameter differ from one another, it can be concluded that the fuel quality of the fuel in the fuel tank before startup of the internal combustion engine has changed. A quantity (fuel factor) can then be taken into consideration in the mixture pre-control.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 27, 2012Publication date: August 9, 2012Applicant: Audi AGInventor: Jörg Ballauf
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Patent number: 8234906Abstract: A sensor for gases emitted by combustion, the sensor involving one or more metal oxides forming an adsorption semiconductor the electrical resistance of which changes according to the gas adsorbed, the semiconductor being a semiconductor for the direct adsorption of gases without catalyzed chemical reaction, the sensor being arranged to detect nitrogen oxides in the case of a bright fire, and/or the sensor being arranged to detect, in the case of a smoldering fire, partially unburned gases, in particular alcohols, aldehydes, ketones, carboxylic acids or amines.Type: GrantFiled: October 19, 2007Date of Patent: August 7, 2012Assignee: Societe de Chimie Inorganique et Organique en abrege “Sochinor”Inventors: André De Haan, Marc Debliquy
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Publication number: 20120192619Abstract: For mass production of anemometers for EGR systems with hot exhaust gas streams having temperatures up to 200° C. or 300° C., conductors and film resistors are placed onto a bed, and are covered on this bed, e.g. A sensor tip of the flow sensor of the anemometer is made of inorganic materials up to the housing cover. A cable is led into a housing and self-supporting electrical conductors are led through the housing cover. In the housing, leads of the cable are connected to the self-supporting electrical conductors. Using bed profiles passing through the cover, the film resistors are spaced from the housing sufficiently far that the film resistors and the housing are largely thermally decoupled. As an intermediate product, a measurement tip or a sensor bar as part of a sensor tip is made of purely inorganic components, in order to make the mass production efficient.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 24, 2012Publication date: August 2, 2012Inventors: Matthias MUZIOL, Karlheinz WIENAND
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Publication number: 20120186329Abstract: A particle sensor for exhaust system is provided. In one embodiment, the particle sensor comprises a sensor element and an integrated amplifier circuit for amplifying a reference voltage for the sensor element. In this way, the particle sensor may provide increased sensitivity.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 17, 2012Publication date: July 26, 2012Applicant: FORD GLOBAL TECHNOLOGIES, LLCInventors: Yasser M. Yacoub, Guido Havenith
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Patent number: 8225648Abstract: A particulate matter sensor is provided for sensing particulate matter present in exhaust gases in a conduit. The particulate matter sensor includes a sensing element with a sensing face which extends into the exhaust conduit and provides a signal indicative of the amount of particulate matter detected in the exhaust conduit. An inner shield is provided to surround the sensing face and includes an inner shield inlet for admitting exhaust gases therein to be sensed. An outer shield surrounds a portion of the inner shield and defines an outer shield chamber extending axially beyond the inner shield. The outer shield has an outer shield inlet passage to receive exhaust gasses from the conduit. Exhaust gases enter the inner shield from the outer shield chamber through the inner shield inlet.Type: GrantFiled: May 18, 2010Date of Patent: July 24, 2012Assignee: Delphi Technologies, Inc.Inventor: Charles Scott Nelson
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Publication number: 20120180457Abstract: According to one embodiment, a sensor module includes a sensor probe that has at least two arms coupled together at a central location with each of the at least two arms extending radially outwardly away from the central location. Each of the at least two arms includes one of a plurality of openings and an elongate opening extending radially along the arm. The at least two arms define fluid flow channels therein. The sensor module also includes at least one extractor coupled to the probe. The at least one extractor includes a fluid flow channel that is communicable in fluid receiving communication with fluid flowing through the fluid flow channel of at least one of the at least two arms. Further, the sensor module includes at least one sensor that is communicable in fluid sensing communication with fluid flowing through the at least one extractor.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 14, 2011Publication date: July 19, 2012Applicant: CUMMINS IP, INCInventors: Z. Gerald Liu, Achuth Munnannur, Andrew Osburn, Shashidhar Srinivas, Jason Drost, Michael Welp, Robert Nowicki
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Publication number: 20120180548Abstract: A system is disclosed, including: a plurality of Bragg gratings distributed in positions transversely to the direction of flow of an exhaust gas in an exhaust gas channel of the device; an optical wave guide structure including at least one optical wave guide and in which the Bragg gratings are embodied; a heating device arranged adjacently to the Bragg gratings and through which the Bragg gratings are subjected to heat, or a cooling device arranged adjacently to the Bragg gratings, through which the Bragg gratings are subjected to cold; at least one light source for irradiating light into the optical wave guide structure; and at least one signal processing device which determines, from light backscattered from Bragg gratings in the optical wave guide structure against its original direction of diffusion, the speed of the flow of the exhaust gas.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 28, 2010Publication date: July 19, 2012Applicant: SIEMENS AKTIENGESELLSCHAFTInventor: Thomas Bosselmann
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Publication number: 20120174989Abstract: A method of measuring characteristics of a critical orifice type constant flow rate instrument is applied to a dilution mechanism including dilution units in series. Diluent gas of one dilution unit and diluent gas of the other dilution unit are kept flowing in a derivation flow passage for deriving redundant gas of the corresponding one dilution unit in a manner that the total flow rate thereof is equal to a prescribed constant flow rate and that the flow rate of the diluent gas from the corresponding dilution unit is equal to the flow rate in use. The flow rate characteristics of the critical orifice type constant flow rate instrument are measured based on at least an upstream side pressure of the critical orifice type constant flow rate instrument provided in the derivation flow passage at this time.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 12, 2012Publication date: July 12, 2012Applicant: HORIBA, LTD.Inventors: Yoshinori OTSUKI, Masayoshi SHINOHARA, Kazuo HANADA
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Patent number: 8216519Abstract: A hotplate chemical trace detector comprising a heatable conducting plate with a heater element having a predetermined temperature-power characteristic. A balancing circuit comprises an adjustable resistor for tuning the heater element to a predefined resistor value. A processor is provided for adjusting the adjustable resistor so as to provide a stabilized temperature in said heatable conducting plate and a detection circuit is provided for detecting a change of resistance in the heatable conducting plate in accordance with the presence of a chemical trace reacting in the presence of the conducting plate. According to the invention a test circuit is provided for measuring a dissipated power in the heater element and for calculating a real temperature from the dissipated power in the heater element based on the predetermined temperature-power characteristic.Type: GrantFiled: November 24, 2006Date of Patent: July 10, 2012Assignee: Consultatie Implementatie Technisch Beheer B.V.Inventor: Albert Bos
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Patent number: 8215153Abstract: A gas sensor including a detection element having a detection portion; a metal shell that surrounds the detection element so as to expose the detection portion to a measured atmosphere; an outer tube that is fixed to the metal shell so as to cover a rear end side of the detection element; and a seal member that is contained inside the outer tube, the seal member having a lead wire insertion hole and a through hole that penetrates in the axial direction; a tubular holding member made of a resin having a lower coefficient of thermal expansion than the seal member, the tubular holding member being held inside the through hole, the tubular holding member having a ventilation hole; and a filter that covers the ventilation hole, the filter being joined to the holding member, the filter blocking water from passing therethrough, and the filter having air permeability.Type: GrantFiled: September 2, 2009Date of Patent: July 10, 2012Assignee: NGK Spark Plug Co., Ltd.Inventors: Yoshiaki Matsubara, Takayoshi Atsumi, Kouji Matsuo, Kazuhiro Kouzaki, Masahiro Asai
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Publication number: 20120167664Abstract: A system for detecting defects in a combustion duct of a combustion system of a combustion turbine engine while the combustion turbine engine operates, wherein the combustion duct comprises a hot side, which is exposed to combustion gases and, opposing the hot side, a cold side. The system may include: an indicator coating disposed on an outer surface of the combustion duct, the indicator coating comprising a detectable substance; and a gas sensor positioned downstream of the combustor, the gas sensor configured to take a measurement of the amount of the detectable substance in the combustion products of the combustion turbine engine.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 30, 2010Publication date: July 5, 2012Inventors: Pradeep Aadi Gopala Krishna, Dullal Ghosh, Saurav Dugar, Matthew Paul Berkebile, Anthony Wayne Krull
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Publication number: 20120167665Abstract: The disclosure provides a method, system and internal combustion engine system in which a closed-loop system having a controllable variable is monitored to detect the off-nominal behavior of the closed-loop system and raise an alarm or other alerting mechanism when fault is detected. The faults in a closed-loop system show up in such a way that the tracking error signal is impacted and this impact manifests itself as a change in the frequency components. A filter is used to isolate a band of frequency components of the tracking error signal that are more impacted than other by deviation caused by a fault to be detected. The filter can be designed to effectively amplify the section of the error tracking signal that contains the frequency components that have the major impact. In addition, the filter will also have the characteristics to attenuate the impact of other frequency components.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 31, 2010Publication date: July 5, 2012Applicant: CUMMINS INTELLECTUAL PROPERTIES, INC.Inventors: Phanindra Garimella, Howard Bishop
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Patent number: 8211293Abstract: A method of correcting NOx sensor includes the steps of preparing a corrective map in advance, finding an existing proportion of NO or NO2 in a mixture of NOx in exhaust gases before coming into an NOx sensor, and correcting an NOx concentration that the NOx sensor detects actually. The corrective map records relationships between temperature physical quantities that are relevant to a temperature of the exhaust gases, oxygen-concentration physical quantities that are relevant to an oxygen concentration in the exhaust gases, and the existing proportion. The existing proportion is found with reference to the corrective map using the temperature physical quantities and oxygen-concentration physical quantities that are detected actually. The NOx concentration is corrected on the basis of not only the existing proportion but also a difference between an NO2 diffusion velocity and an NO diffusion velocity.Type: GrantFiled: June 15, 2010Date of Patent: July 3, 2012Assignee: Toyota Jidosha Kabushiki KaishaInventors: Hiroki Nishijima, Takeshi Hirabayashi, Fumitaka Kato
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Publication number: 20120160009Abstract: An exhaust gas analyzing system includes, on an upstream side of an analytical instrument, an exhaust gas introduction pipe of which one end is opened to an exhaust gas flow path through which exhaust gas from an engine flows and the other end is connected to the analytical instrument. A switching mechanism selectively switches between a sampling path that samples the exhaust gas from the exhaust gas introduction pipe to introduce the sampled exhaust gas into the analytical instrument and an air introduction path that introduces air into the analytical instrument. When the engine is operated, a path to the analytical instrument is switched to the sampling path by the switching mechanism. When the engine is stopped, the path is switched to the air introduction path by the switching mechanism.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 23, 2011Publication date: June 28, 2012Applicant: HORIBA, LTD.Inventors: Tetsuji Asami, Hiroyuki Ikeda, Mineyuki Komada
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Publication number: 20120160008Abstract: A gas information estimation apparatus (100) is connected to a gas sensor element for detecting the concentration of gas flowing through an internal combustion engine (11), and estimates gas information other than the concentration. The apparatus includes gas sensor element provisional temperature calculation means (51) for calculating a provisional temperature of the gas sensor element using a predetermined simulation model, and inputting a reference value to the model as the parameter value; gas sensor element actual temperature measurement means (53), (54); gas information calculation means (55) for calculating the true value of the parameter value which can be input to the model in place of the reference value such that the provisional temperature of the gas sensor element approaches the actual temperature; and gas information obtaining means (57) for obtaining an estimative value of the gas information from the true value.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 12, 2011Publication date: June 28, 2012Applicant: NGK SPARK PLUG CO., LTD.Inventor: Seiji Maeda
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Patent number: 8205481Abstract: A method of measuring oxygen-containing nitrogen components including nitrogen dioxide in exhaust gases of internal combustion engines, wherein an exhaust gas sample is taken from a removal point 10 at the exhaust gas pipe 1 and is guided to at least one measuring instrument by means of a removal line, wherein, for the purpose of measuring the oxygen-containing nitrogen components, there are provided a separate removal point 10 and a removal line 11 and that the exhaust gas sample for measuring the oxygen-containing nitrogen components is set to a temperature at which a reaction between the nitrogen dioxide and soot is low.Type: GrantFiled: May 23, 2007Date of Patent: June 26, 2012Assignee: FEV GmbHInventors: Bernhard Lueers, Juergen Schnitzler, Peter Mauermann, Peter Gerhards
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Publication number: 20120151991Abstract: A flue gas analyzer device which can be held in one hand and which has a probe barrel for drawing in a gas sample with a pump, a thermocouple arranged in the probe barrel, and with a housing receiving a battery-powered evaluating and measuring device. A pump chamber, a condensate chamber, a condensate separator, and the probe barrel are arranged axially one behind the other in front of a handle of the pistol-shaped housing of the analyzer device. The gas sample is drawn in from the condensate chamber via an exchangeable filter device by the pump arranged in the pump chamber and is supplied for analysis to sensors arranged in the handle via a line.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 23, 2008Publication date: June 21, 2012Applicant: Wohler Messgerate Kehrgerate GmbHInventor: Stephan Ester
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Patent number: 8196448Abstract: A hydrogen sensor assembly is disclosed. The hydrogen sensor assembly includes a sensing element within a sensor housing. The sensor housing includes an opening to facilitate a fluid communication between the sensing element and an exhaust stream of a fuel cell. A substantially water-vapor-impermeable membrane is disposed within the opening between the sensing element and the exhaust stream to militate against water vapor from the exhaust stream entering the sensor housing. The sensor housing may include a second opening to facilitate a fluid communication between the sensing element and an external environment to evacuate water vapor generated by the sensing element.Type: GrantFiled: January 20, 2010Date of Patent: June 12, 2012Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations LLCInventor: Christoph Kuebel
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Patent number: 8191414Abstract: A sensor including a sensor element including a plurality of electrode terminals, terminal metal fittings, a terminal surrounding member, and lead wires connected to respective terminal metal fittings. The terminal surrounding member is divided into a front side surrounding member and a rear side surrounding member in the front-rear direction, and a rear end face of the front side surrounding member abuts a front end face of the rear side surrounding member. At least one of the terminal metal fittings includes a protruding piece portion protruding in a lateral direction and held between the rear end face of the front side surrounding member and the front end face of the rear side surrounding member.Type: GrantFiled: December 10, 2009Date of Patent: June 5, 2012Assignee: NGK Spark Plug Co., Ltd.Inventors: Makoto Kume, Noboru Matsui
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Publication number: 20120131984Abstract: An electrical connection system for a vehicle, comprising an elongated dielectric component (3) equipped with at least one electrode electrically connected to electrical contact pads (7), two dielectric half-shells (14) assembled face-to-face, electrical contact fingers (19) connecting with the pads, interposed between at least one half-shell and the component, a spring collar (21) surrounding the half-shells (14) to provide for holding them in position. The half-shells (14) include at the proximal part a pivot (23) such that the half-shells open angularly relative to one another, the half-shells (14) together include on the outside a bearing surface for a tubular body providing for bringing the half-shells together.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 7, 2010Publication date: May 31, 2012Applicant: ELECTRICFIL AUTOMOTIVEInventors: Stéphane Raquin, Frédéric Duault
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Patent number: 8187454Abstract: A degradation detector of an exhaust gas sensor is disclosed. The detector comprises a first heater resistance estimator (16) for estimating a resistance of a heater that heats the exhaust gas sensor, based on a device resistance of the exhaust gas sensor; a heater resistance calculator (17) for calculating a resistance of the heater, based on a heater current of the heater; and a degradation determiner (18) for determining whether the exhaust gas sensor is degraded, by comparing the estimated resistance of the heater and the calculated resistance of the heater.Type: GrantFiled: December 14, 2005Date of Patent: May 29, 2012Assignee: Toyota Jidosha Kabushiki KaishaInventor: Haruki Fukuda
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Publication number: 20120125080Abstract: An exhaust gas sampling and analysis system includes a main flow channel in which a flow restriction mechanism and a first suction pump are arranged; a measurement flow channel in which an exhaust gas analysis device is provided and that extends from the main flow channel at a position downstream of the flow restriction mechanism; and a compensation flow channel in which a flow rate adjustment mechanism is provided and that extends from the main flow channel at a position downstream of the point from which the measurement flow channel extends. The first suction pump further reduces the pressure of the exhaust gas. The flow rate adjustment mechanism adjusts, in order that the pressure of the exhaust gas at the point from which the measurement flow channel extends is a predetermined value, the flow rate of the compensation gas.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 27, 2010Publication date: May 24, 2012Applicant: HORIBA, LTD.Inventors: Montajir Rahman, Takeshi Kusaka, Leslie Hill
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Publication number: 20120130584Abstract: A system and/or method for quantifying the presence of one or more components in vehicle exhaust, and more particularly to a non-contact, sampling system and method for quantifying the presence of one or more components in exhaust emissions of commercial and/or heavy-duty vehicles that emit exhaust at an elevated level, under actual operating conditions.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 31, 2012Publication date: May 24, 2012Inventor: Donald H. Stedman
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Patent number: 8182665Abstract: A sensor element is provided for gas sensors, in particular to determine particles in gas mixtures, the sensor element including at least one electrochemical measuring element exposed to the gas mixture to be determined, and at least one temperature-measuring element integrated into the sensor element. The temperature-measuring element includes a resistor track, which has an electric resistance of less than 180 Ohm at 0° C. The resistor track may thus be produced by thin-foil technology, such as screen printing, for example.Type: GrantFiled: October 20, 2006Date of Patent: May 22, 2012Assignee: Robert Bosch GmbHInventors: Lutz Dorfmueller, Sabine Roesch, Detlef Heimann, Stefan Rodewald, Helmut Marx, Henrico Runge, Harald Guenschel, Ralf Schmidt, Markus Siebert, Lothar Diehl, Thorsten Ochs, Juergen Sindel, Juergen Ruth, Andreas Schaak, Henrik Schittenhelm
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Patent number: 8182664Abstract: A sensor control device for controlling a current application state of a gas sensor element when measuring a specific gas component concentration in a gas to be measured using the gas sensor element, which sensor control device includes: at least one cell having a solid electrolyte body and a pair of electrodes; a sensor heating unit as defined herein; an oxygen reference pole generating unit as defined herein; a damage avoidance time elapse determining unit as defined herein; and a reference generation current application permitting unit as defined herein.Type: GrantFiled: May 6, 2008Date of Patent: May 22, 2012Assignee: NGK Spark Plug Co., Ltd.Inventors: Masamichi Hiraiwa, Nobuhiro Inoue, Satoshi Teramoto, Yukinobu Nagao
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Patent number: 8184296Abstract: Some embodiments of the invention generally relate to an apparatus configured to monitor emissions. The apparatus includes a sampling chamber, a gas analyzer, and a particulate matter analyzer. The sampling chamber is configured to receive a portion of an exhaust flow from an exhaust stack. The portion of the exhaust flow comprises one or more gases and particulate matter. The gas analyzer is configured to receive the portion of the exhaust flow to measure at least one emission level of the one or more gases using a laser and output a signal indicative thereof. The particulate matter analyzer is operatively connected to the sampling chamber and is configured to measure the particulate matter using optics and output a signal indicative thereof.Type: GrantFiled: December 8, 2009Date of Patent: May 22, 2012Assignee: W R SystemsInventors: Robert G. Johns, Reginald L. Viray, Edward P. Weaver, Nathan J. Lundin, Megan Jones
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Patent number: 8181543Abstract: An exhaust sampling system includes a pre-fill gas source having a pre-fill gas. A sampling conduit is configured to collect exhaust gas and make-up gas. A sample bag is fluidly connected to the sampling conduit and the pre-fill gas source. A controller is programmed to run a test procedure in which a sample of exhaust gas and make-up gas is collected in the sample bag. The controller sends a command that fills the sample bag with pre-fill gas prior to the test procedure. The pre-fill gas remains in the sample bag during the test procedure. In one example, the amount of pre-fill gas is selected to prevent the sample from condensing in the sample bag during the test procedure. In another example, the amount of pre-fill gas is selected to provide a sufficient volume of gases for analysis during the test procedure.Type: GrantFiled: July 13, 2009Date of Patent: May 22, 2012Assignee: AVL North America Inc.Inventors: William Martin Silvis, James Williamson
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Publication number: 20120122040Abstract: Systems and methods for analyzing combustion system operation are provided. According to one embodiment, a method can include receiving multiple CO measurements from respective CO sensors distributed within a combustion system; receiving multiple O2 measurements from respective O2 sensors distributed within the combustion system; and determining at least one operating condition of the combustion system based at least in part on CO indicated by the CO measurements relative to O2 indicated by the O2 measurements.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 16, 2010Publication date: May 17, 2012Applicant: GENERAL ELECTRIC COMPANYInventors: Guang Xu, David Moyeda, Neil Widmer, Wei Zhou
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Publication number: 20120111092Abstract: A protector (100) of a gas sensor (1) includes an inner protector (120) and an outer protector (110). The inner protector accommodates a gas sensor element (10) and has a tubular side wall (122) having inner gas introduction holes (130), and a bottom wall (124). The outer protector has a tubular side wall (112) having outer gas introduction holes (115), a frustum-like taper wall (117) tapering frontward and an outer gas discharge hole (170) formed inside a front end edge (117s) of the taper wall. When SL represents an area defined by the front end edge of the taper wall, the area S of the opening of the outer gas discharge hole satisfies the relational expression 1/2×SL?S?SL. A cover portion (127) and a bottom wall (124) are partially away from each other along the axial direction, thereby forming side openings (162).Type: ApplicationFiled: November 3, 2011Publication date: May 10, 2012Applicant: NGK SPARK PLUG CO., LTD.Inventor: Takashi NAKASHIMA
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Publication number: 20120107752Abstract: Certain embodiments of the invention may include systems, methods, and apparatus for determining airflow through a burner. According to an example embodiment of the invention, a method is provided for determining airflow through a burner. The method includes installing a first end of an inlet pressure transmission tube in an air inlet region of a furnace burner system, installing a first end of a burner pressure transmission tube in a burner exit region of the furnace burner system, connecting a second end of the inlet pressure transmission tube to a first pressure sensor, connecting a second end of the burner pressure transmission tube to a second pressure sensor, measuring the differential pressure between the first and second pressure sensors, and determining airflow based at least in part on the measured differential pressure.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 3, 2010Publication date: May 3, 2012Applicant: YOKOGAWA CORPORATION OF AMERICAInventor: Tadao Jo
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Patent number: 8168053Abstract: A gas sensing member has a unit structure and a porous protective layer disposed on the unit structure. The unit structure has a solid electrolyte body, a gas measurement electrode disposed on a surface of the body and exposed to a measured gas entering at a gas inlet, a reference gas electrode disposed on another surface of the body and exposed to a reference gas, and a heater disposed close to the body. The heater has a heater substrate and heating elements disposed in the heater substrate. The heating elements heat the body. The heater substrate has side corner areas placed on side corners of the unit structure and being adjacent to the heating elements. The protective layer is disposed on the gas inlet such that the side corner areas are not covered with the protective layer and are directly exposed to the measured gas.Type: GrantFiled: January 12, 2007Date of Patent: May 1, 2012Assignee: Denso CorporationInventors: Kiyomi Kobayashi, Makoto Nakae, Toshikazu Hirose
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Patent number: 8161794Abstract: A metal or metal compound able to trap a sulfur component in exhaust gas is arranged in a flow passage of exhaust gas in an internal combustion engine. When the amount of sulfur component trapped in the metal or metal compound increases over the passage of time, a property of the metal or metal compound which changes along with the increase in the amount of trapped sulfur component is measured and the sulfur component in the gas is detected from the measured property.Type: GrantFiled: January 17, 2008Date of Patent: April 24, 2012Assignee: Toyota Jidosha Kabushiki KaishaInventors: Hiroshi Otsuki, Takamitsu Asanuma, Kohei Yoshida, Hiromasa Nishioka, Shinya Hirota, Kotaro Hayashi
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Patent number: 8156790Abstract: The present invention provides a sensor capable of maintaining an electrical connection between the lead frame and an electrode terminal section of the detection element even when an inadequate external force is applied to a lead frame and a sensor production method capable of preventing the lead frame from buckling and being deformed into an inadequate shape. The lead frame (second lead frame) can inhibit movement of a second frame main body section axially toward a rear end side through engagement of a third locking surface of a second locking section with a second locking groove and can inhibit the second frame main body section from going apart from an inner surface of an insertion hole through engagement of a fourth locking surface of the second frame locking section, which faces an element engagement section side.Type: GrantFiled: November 6, 2008Date of Patent: April 17, 2012Assignee: NGK Spark Plug Co., LtdInventors: Kouji Matsuo, Satoshi Ishikawa
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Patent number: 8156787Abstract: A metal compound (50) able to trap a sulfur component in exhaust gas is arranged in a flow path of the exhaust gas, a property of the metal compound (50) changing along with an increase of the amount of sulfur component trapped at the metal compound (50) is measured, and the cumulative value of the amount of SOX actually contained in the exhaust gas is calculated from the measured property. On the other hand, the assumed cumulative value of the amount of SOX, assumed to be contained in the exhaust gas when assuming that fuel or oil of a sulfur concentration assumed in advance is used, is calculated. It is judged if fuel or oil with a high sulfur concentration is being used from the actual cumulative value of the amount of SOX and the assumed cumulative value of the amount of SOX.Type: GrantFiled: June 30, 2008Date of Patent: April 17, 2012Assignee: Toyota Jidosha Kabushiki KaishaInventors: Takamitsu Asanuma, Kohei Yoshida, Hiromasa Nishioka, Hiroshi Otsuki, Yuka Nakata
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Publication number: 20120085146Abstract: A PM-sensor having a sensor element is provided to an exhaust pipe. The sensor element has a concaved chamber on a particulate matter detection surface of an insulating substrate body, and a detection electrode formed on a bottom surface of the chamber. An insulating protecting layer covers an upper opening of the concaved chamber. The insulating protecting layer has a plurality of penetrating holes through which only particulate matter to be detected can passes.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 23, 2011Publication date: April 12, 2012Applicant: DENSO CORPORATIONInventors: Eriko MAEDA, Takehito Kimata
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Patent number: 8152979Abstract: An ammonia gas sensor including a reference electrode (320) is formed on the back surface of a solid electrolyte member (310), and a detection electrode (335) is formed on the front surface of the solid electrolyte member (310). A detection lead (350) is provided on the front surface of the solid electrolyte member (310) such that the detection lead (350) is connected to the detection electrode (335). An insulating layer (340), (380) is provided between the detection lead (350) and the solid electrolyte member (310), or on the detection lead (350).Type: GrantFiled: July 10, 2008Date of Patent: April 10, 2012Assignee: NGK Spark Plug Co., Ltd.Inventors: Satoshi Sugaya, Hiroyuki Nishiyama, Wataru Matsutani, Shiro Kakimoto
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Patent number: 8146403Abstract: A gas sensor includes a gas responsive pellistor and associated information specific to that pellistor. The information can include environmental compensation information, such as temperature or humidity compensation information or other manufacturing information, and is stored in a computer readable medium. Such information can be used by local circuitry in compensating the sensor while making ambient gas level determinations.Type: GrantFiled: September 11, 2008Date of Patent: April 3, 2012Assignee: Life Safety Distribution AGInventors: Anthony R. Cowburn, David F. Davies, Jonathan H. Gilby
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Patent number: 8141413Abstract: A particulate matter concentration measuring apparatus is configured to measure a concentration of particulate matter in exhaust gas flowing through an exhaust line of a diesel engine. The apparatus includes an exhaust gas extraction line diverging from the exhaust line and having a flow passage cross-sectional area smaller than a flow passage cross-sectional area of the exhaust line. A particulate matter detection filter has a cell wall and is provided in the exhaust gas extraction line. A flow velocity of the exhaust gas passing through the cell wall is more than or equal to approximately 0.02 m/s and less than or equal to approximately 2.0 m/s. A differential pressure sensing part is configured to sense a differential pressure generated between an inlet and an outlet of the particulate matter detection filter.Type: GrantFiled: January 27, 2010Date of Patent: March 27, 2012Assignees: Ibiden Co., Ltd.Inventors: Athanasios G. Konstandopoulos, Fumishige Miyata, Takafumi Kasuga, Yasuhiro Ishii
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Publication number: 20120060478Abstract: A method and a control system are provided for diagnosing a diesel combustion catalyst that is located in an exhaust line within a diesel engine system. The method comprising providing an unburned fuel mass flow through the diesel oxidation catalyst, determining the oxidation heat release rate which is related to the exothermic oxidation reactions of the unburned fuel into the diesel oxidation catalyst, integrating the determined oxidation heat release rate on a time interval, integrating the unburned fuel mass flow on the same time interval, dividing the integrated value of oxidation heat release rate and the integrated value of unburned fuel mass flow for determining an efficiency index (DOI) of the diesel oxidation catalyst.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 27, 2010Publication date: March 15, 2012Applicant: GM GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS LLCInventors: Roberto Vernassa, Francesco Cianflone
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Patent number: 8132444Abstract: A protective heated screen for an element of a sensor surrounds a portion of the element and reduces and/or minimizes the propensity for liquid droplets to come in contact with the heated element. The screen can allow fluid flow therethrough to allow the sensor element to come in contact with the fluid stream. The screen can be in continuous heat-transferring contact with the sensor element such that both the sensor element and screen are at a temperature significantly greater than the ambient temperature. Liquid droplets contacting the heated screen may evaporate such that the liquid droplets do not come in contact with the sensor element. The screen can also break down the liquid droplets into smaller droplets such that the thermal stress created by the droplets contacting the heated element is reduced over that caused by a larger droplet.Type: GrantFiled: March 31, 2009Date of Patent: March 13, 2012Assignee: DENSO International America, Inc.Inventors: Paul Cloutier, Zhe Huang
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Publication number: 20120055139Abstract: A system assembly detects the amount of reducing agent and the amount of pollutant in an exhaust gas. The system assembly has a first pollutant sensor, which is cross-sensitive to the reducing agent, and is provided for emitting a first measuring signal proportional to the amount of pollutant in the exhaust gas for use in front of a filtering device for the selective reducing of the reducing agent or the pollutant in the exhaust gas. A second pollutant sensor, which is also cross-sensitive to the reducing agent, emits a second measuring signal proportional to the amount of pollutant in the exhaust gas for use behind the filtering device.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 11, 2011Publication date: March 8, 2012Applicant: Bayerische Motoren Werke AktiengesellschaftInventor: Bernhard AICHHORN