Abstract: A hydrostatic pressure testing system for hydrostatic pressure testing of pipe or other vessels. A control center may include a computer program that monitors, records, and controls the system during testing. A test fluid assembly may include a fill conduit capable of providing a test fluid to an inlet section of a vessel to be tested in response to a command from the computer program. A pressure-release safety assembly may have a vent conduit in fluid communication between an outlet section of the vessel and a safety valve. The safety valve may be in fluid communication with a bleed tank for storing an outlet flow of test fluid from the vessel. The safety valve is actuated to relieve fluid pressure in the vessel in response to a selective condition. A method of using the system to conduct hydrostatic pressure testing is also described.

Abstract: A two- or three-phase mixture is sprayed using at least one nozzle which has associated therewith at least one structure-borne sound sensor for detecting a sound power level signal in the region of the nozzle and also at least one gas and/or liquid meter for detecting a volumetric flow of gas and/or liquid directed through the nozzle.

Abstract: A ground engaging vehicle including a frame, an engine connected to the frame, a controller, and a hydraulic system powered by the engine. The hydraulic system includes a plurality of actuators, a plurality of valves, and at least one sensor. The plurality of valves include a first valve associated with a corresponding one of the plurality of actuators. Each of the plurality of valves is operatively connected to the controller. The at least one sensor is adapted to send a signal to the controller indicating a hydraulic connectivity through the first valve. The controller is adapted to open the first valve allowing hydraulic fluid to pressurize a first actuator until the first actuator is driven to an end of its stroke. The controller is further adapted to close the valve and send an increasing current to the valve.

Abstract: A fatigue testing system provides simultaneous cycle testing for a plurality of prosthetic devices under simulated physiological loading conditions. A plurality of sample holders containing test samples of prosthetic devices is positioned between a distribution chamber and a return fluid chamber to form an integrated test chamber. A reciprocating linear drive motor operates a rolling bellows diaphragm to cyclically pressurize fluid within the test chamber and drive the pressurized fluid through the prosthetic devices being tested. The test chamber defines a return flow conduit in fluid communication with each of the sample holders, the return fluid chamber, and the distribution chamber. Compliance chambers and throttle valves associated with each of the sample holders regulate the pressure gradient and back pressure across the prosthetic devices being tested.

Abstract: A dissolved gas content measurement apparatus, which measures dissolved gas content in a liquid, includes: a flow path which includes a flow path resistance; a liquid containing chamber which communicates with the flow path; a pressure changing unit which changes inner pressure of the liquid containing chamber; a measurement unit which measures a pressure vibration cycle of the liquid, which is caused when the pressure changing unit operates, in a state where the liquid is contained in the flow path and the liquid containing chamber; and an obtaining unit which obtains the dissolved gas content based on the cycle.

Abstract: According to an embodiment, there is provided herein a method of determining the air void distribution in a sample of fresh concrete. One embodiment of the invention determines a parameter related to air void distribution by applying a known pressure to a fresh concrete sample, measuring a first value representative of the volume under compression, releases at least a portion of the pressure, reapplies the same pressure to the sample, measures a second value representative of the volume under the second compression, and uses differential between the first and second values to estimate a parameter related to the air void distribution.

Abstract: Methods and systems for processing samples fixed to a porous substrate generally comprising, a compressor defining one or more fluid isolation areas, a support, for the porous substrate, having an opening corresponding to one or more of the fluid isolation areas of the compressor, an actuator that causes at least a portion of the compressor to press against the porous substrate, a fluid inlet having access to the fluid isolation area at least when the compressor is pressed against the porous substrate, and a fluid outlet to receive fluid, through the opening in the support corresponding to the fluid isolation area of the compressor, at least when the compressor is pressed against the porous substrate.

Abstract: A load-controlled accelerated wear testing system to test cardiovascular prostheses that enables a user to tune pulse waveform by adjusting the output loading pressure of a linear motor driving the testing system. A portion of the testing system is open to the atmosphere during testing, allowing a relatively lower threshold pressure necessary to drive fluid across the prosthesis during testing. The contemplated tester can be set up in an array of multiple testers each capable of individual tuning and data-collection without undesirably cross-talking. Its novel feature of single-block construction out of a transparent material also allows direct visualization of the prosthesis during testing.

Abstract: Hydrostatic testing tool and methods for testing a test article, such as a hose or container having an external threaded aperture. The preferred testing tool includes a housing, a piston and a collet body having a plurality of collet segments collectively forming a cylindrical inner perimeter having a variable diameter, each collet segment having a threaded surface on the inner perimeter such that the piston can selectively actuate the collet body to vary the diameter of the inner perimeter. In preferred embodiments, the hydrostatic testing tool utilizes a handle assembly that is arranged and configured such that only one hand is needed to operate the hydrostatic testing tool.

Abstract: A mechanism is provided for sensing molecules. A twin-nanopore probe includes a first channel and a second channel. A first pressure-controlled reservoir is connected to the first channel to generate a positive pressure. A second pressure-controlled reservoir is connected to the second channel to generate a negative pressure. A container includes ionic solvent with molecules, and a tip of the twin-nanopore probe is submerged in the container of the ionic fluid with the molecules. The first channel, the second channel, the first pressure-controlled reservoir, and the second pressure-controlled reservoir are filled with the ionic fluid. The first pressure-controlled reservoir drives the ionic fluid out of the first channel and the second pressure-controlled reservoir draws in the ionic fluid with the molecules and solvent through the second channel. A flow of ionic current in the twin-nanopore probe is measured to differentiate the molecules that flow through the second channel.

Abstract: The applanation system on air permeated screen (1) of this invention is a versatile instrument for measurement of tissue firmness generated by cell turgor pressure of leaves and organs segments with thin and elastic cell wall of several stalk, leaves, fruits and roots. It is composed by an air source with adjusted maximum flow (6), a porous element (2) inserted on a screen (1), by which air flows, and a device for compression application (4). For measurements, the organ is progressively pressed against the screen until reversible interruption of the air flow crossing the porous element (2) is indicative of adequate applanation of the leaf against the screen. In this condition, one takes the firmness measurement reading as the applanation pressure (5). This firmometer enables postharvest quality evaluation and measurements for ecophysiology studies and irrigation management procedure benchmarking.

Abstract: In hybrid electric vehicles having increased battery storage capacity and plug-in capability, electric-only operation of significant duration is available. To supplement lubrication for the electric and mechanical components provided in a fluid circuit by an engine-driven mechanical pump, an electric pump is provided in parallel to the mechanical pump. When the electric pump is operating, a diagnostic can be performed to determine system integrity. According to one embodiment, an actual quantity provide to the circuit is determined; an expected quantity is estimated; and a fault is determined when the actual and expected quantities differ by more than a predetermined amount. The fault may indicate a leak or plug in the fluid circuit or a failure of a component in the fluid circuit.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for the remote nondestructive evaluation of an object such as a wind turbine blade involves applying mechanical and/or thermal stress to the object and then scanning the object using long-range thermographic and/or laser interferometric imaging. The laser interferometric imaging is preferably performed by a long range shearography camera capable of imaging deformation derivatives at long distances coupled with a blade stressing mechanism incorporating either thermal or internal blade pressurization for the purpose of detecting remotely and at high speed, changes in the structural integrity of an installed wind turbine blade.

Abstract: In accordance with some implementations of the described invention, a testing device is provided which includes a safety shield having one or more motion control cam tracks, wherein the cam tracks are configured to receive a cam follower that is connected to a mounting member onto which is mounted one or more testing modules. The testing modules perform specific functions for testing a sample product. The mounting member is moved within the safety shield as the cam follower tracks within the motion control cam tracks. In such implementations, the mounting member is further connected to two or more hydraulic cylinders or other actuators which are configured to move the mounting member to various positions within an x-axis and a y-axis. The integrated safety and motion control features of the safety shield provide precise, repeatable movement of the mounting member while preventing injuring to a user. Other implementations are also described.

Abstract: A pressure and prevacuum testing system for an AC system in a vehicle includes an air pressure source for pressurizing a cooling circuit of the AC system to a predetermined high pressure threshold and a vacuum source for prevacuuming the cooling circuit either to a predetermined prevacuum low pressure level or for a predetermined time period. The system also includes a pressure gauge for operatively measuring a pressure level in the cooling circuit. A controller is operatively connected to the air pressure source, the vacuum source and the pressure gauge. The controller compares the pressure level as measured by the pressure gauge to the predetermined high pressure threshold during a pressurized test of the cooling circuit and to the predetermined prevacuum low pressure level during a prevacuum test of the cooling circuit to determine if leaks are present in the cooling circuit.

Abstract: A fatigue testing system provides simultaneous cycle testing for a plurality of prosthetic devices under simulated physiological loading conditions. A plurality of sample holders containing test samples of prosthetic devices is positioned between a distribution chamber and a return fluid chamber to form an integrated test chamber. A reciprocating linear drive motor operates a rolling bellows diaphragm to cyclically pressurize fluid within the test chamber and drive the pressurized fluid through the prosthetic devices being tested. The test chamber defines a return flow conduit in fluid communication with each of the sample holders, the return fluid chamber, and the distribution chamber. Compliance chambers and throttle valves associated with each of the sample holders regulate the pressure gradient and back pressure across the prosthetic devices being tested.

Abstract: A device comprising a pressure monitor and a control means that receives a signal representing measured pressure at the pressure monitor and controls the controllable elements of a fluid system is utilized to monitor a fluid system for error conditions, to optimize operations and to diagnose the fluid system. By following a testing protocol that selectively enables parts of the system, the control means narrows the list of possible failing components. Comparing the measured pressure against normal pressures allows the device to identify error conditions. Determining the volume of fluid being transported and controlling the duration of the flow optimizes operation of the fluid system.

Abstract: An apparatus, a closed-loop system and method for measuring the resistance of inhalation systems and/or devices are disclosed.

Abstract: A control method of a filled water volume in a fluid space requiring a water filling test is disclosed. The method includes disposing a pipe in the fluid space and enclosing the pipe with an enclosure, detecting pressure of a water filled portion in the fluid space or outside of the enclosure, and controlling the volumes of filling fluid and water to a water filling portion in the fluid space inside and outside the enclosure based on the detected pressure such that the pressure in the enclosure becomes higher than the pressure at the water filling part in the fluid space outside the enclosure.

Abstract: Apparatus for remote inspection of oxygen containers includes an electronic circuit in communication between each container (or at various locations along a pipeline) and a remote central station. The electronic circuit is adapted to issue a signal to the remote central station that includes information about predetermined internal and/or external conditions such as the level of oxygen stored in the tank, a pressure condition of material stored in the tank, a lack of presence of the tank in an installed position, or the presence of an obstruction restricting access to the tank.

Abstract: A flush pump feature on a liquid purifying filter includes a segment of flexible tubing containing a small bulb pump is described. Two check valves are positioned upstream and downstream of the bulb pump which then terminates with a simple manually operated open/closed valve. The addition of this flush pump feature enables the filter unit to be easily purged of air at first use and also will make the filter easier to clean and maintain without the need to remove it from a hydration carrier. In addition, the flush bulb feature can also be used to perform a simple visual integrity test of filter while out in a remote location and also can be used to effectively remove bulk water from the filter for lighter storage when not in use which also minimizes freeze related damage when used in a cold environment.

Abstract: Hydrostatic testing tool and methods for testing a test article, such as a hose or container having an external threaded aperture. The preferred testing tool includes a housing, a piston and a collet body having a plurality of collet segments collectively forming a cylindrical inner perimeter having a variable diameter, each collet segment having a threaded surface on the inner perimeter such that the piston can selectively actuate the collet body to vary the diameter of the inner perimeter. In preferred embodiments, the hydrostatic testing tool utilizes a handle assembly that is arranged and configured such that only one hand is needed to operate the hydrostatic testing tool.

Abstract: A method of determining a pressure parameter of a plant sample (1) comprises the steps of subjecting the plant sample (1) to a clamp pressure (pclamp) created with a clamp device (10), measuring at least one pressure response value (pp) of the plant sample (1), which depends on the clamp pressure (Pclamp)/and determining the pressure parameter on the basis of the at least one pressure response value (pp), wherein the clamp pressure (pclamp) is adjusted, such that the plant sample (1) has a viscoelastic pressure response to the clamp pressure (pclamp). Furthermore, an apparatus (100) for determining a pressure parameter of a plant sample (1) is described.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a device to indicate a predetermined critical corrosion of a metallic structure located in soil, water or concrete environment. The device comprises a probe that has a closed tubular container intended to contain a pressurized medium, and that has a wall thickness t that corresponds to the predetermined critical corrosion. A protective coating is arranged essentially over the entire outside of the container with the exception of a surface that is intended to be subjected to corrosion attack. The container is allowed to corrode so that the container becomes perforated, whereupon the pressure of the pressurized medium falls. The pressure change is measured by means of a pressure gauge, and in this way, information is obtained about the fact that the corrosion has reached the predetermined critical level.

Abstract: An infusion pump uses sensors, movable members and a control unit to determine tubing thickness in a tube-loading section of the pump. The infusion pump utilizes sensors, such as a pressure sensor, to record forces imparted by a tube undergoing no pressure, a single pressure, or a pressure sweep, to determine thickness. Using these values, the tubing wall thickness can be determined. The infusion pump can also compress a tube using a movable member of the pump and records the distance traveled by the movable member to compress fully the tube. Using this distance, the tubing wall thickness can be determined.

Abstract: An actuator system includes a piston-cylinder arrangement including a piston that is movable with respect to a cylinder. A first flow path is in fluid communication with the piston-cylinder arrangement and a second flow path is in fluid communication with the piston-cylinder arrangement. A control system is operable to fluidly connect the first flow path to a source of high-pressure fluid and to connect the second flow path to a drain to move the piston in a first direction. A pressure sensor is fluidly connected to the first flow path and is operable to measure sufficient pressure data during the movement of the piston to generate a pressure versus time curve. The control system is operable to compare the generated pressure versus time curve to a known standard pressure versus time curve stored in the control system to determine the condition of the piston-cylinder arrangement.

Abstract: A method for detecting whether an injector with a valve controlled by a PWM signal of an SCR system is at least partially clogged, the system including a pump, or a positive-displacement pump, driven by a motor and pressure of which is controlled by a controller that continuously measures the pressure and/or another parameter characteristic of energy transmitted by the motor to the pump. According to the method, during normal operation of the SCR system, specific portions of one of the measurements are compared with equivalent portions stored in a memory.

Abstract: A sensor device for detecting at least one flow property of a fluid medium. The sensor device includes at least one sensor housing, in which at least one electronic module having at least one flow sensor for detecting the flow property is accommodated. The electronic module is at least partially accommodated in at least one electronic space. Furthermore, at least one pressure sensor and at least one humidity sensor are accommodated inside the sensor housing. The pressure sensor and also the humidity sensor are at least partially accommodated in at least one sensor space, which is designed separately from the electronic space.

Abstract: A method for testing a plurality of fire hoses having respective service test pressures and the test apparatus therefor wherein each hose is required to maintain a test pressure for a specified duration to pass the test. The test pressure is proportional to the service test pressure. Each hose is coupled to a respective hose fitting of a respective branch test conduit. Each branch test conduit includes an isolation valve, a pressure transducer, and a hose fitting downstream of the isolation valve. A variable frequency-variable speed controls a motor which drives a positive displacement water pump supplying water to and pressurizing a water header conduit and a plurality of branch test conduits interconnected therewith. An algorithm applied to the error signal for a respective hose line generates a pump speed command limited by the controller to regulate the rate of increase of pump output pressure.

Abstract: A controlled pressure inflation-deflation device inflates a balloon to occlude a blood vessel by moving a large plunger to provide incremental pressure increases within a syringe. A releasable latch moves a second plunger, positioned within a syringe formed by an inner columnar opening in the large plunger, between an occlusion position and a perfusion position. A three-position switch has a release position to allow the large plunger to move freely, an adjust position to provide the incremental pressure increases, and a lock position to lock the location of the plunger. Pressures at which various balloons (e.g., folded balloons) achieve or nearly achieve a substantially circular cross-section may be extrapolated by inflating balloons with pressures equal and/or greater than the first occlusion pressure. Balloons may be pre-inflated up to or below the first occlusion pressure to achieve a substantially circular cross-section, prior to increasing the balloon to an occlusion pressure.

Abstract: The invention relates to diagnostic methods according to the preamble of the equivalent claims 1 and 2, with which the state of a poppet valve in the course of the switching cycles and/or events thereof, such as the occurrence of pressure shocks or surges during continuous operation is/are monitored continuously, the measured signals are stored and the stored measured signals are interpreted in a targeted manner and early indication of cases of damage is carried out.

Abstract: A safety system for testing high-pressure devices comprising an explosion-proof safety housing; a high-pressure pneumatics testing equipment located within the housing; a closeable access opening in the housing for inserting a high-pressure device for testing within the housing; a device located within the housing for coupling the high-pressure pneumatics testing equipment to the high-pressure device for testing; a control panel located outside the housing; and a device linking the high-pressure pneumatics testing equipment to the control panel for operating the high-pressure pneumatics testing equipment within the safety housing from the control panel.

Abstract: The present disclosure provides an apparatus for characterising mechanical properties of a sample. The apparatus comprises a structure for supporting the sample and applying a first pressure in a first direction to the sample and an actuator for modulating the first pressure. The apparatus also comprises a pressure applicator containing a liquid and arranged to apply a second pressure to the sample in a second direction that is transversal to the first direction. Further, the apparatus comprises a pore pressure applicator arranged to apply a flow of a fluid through a porous sample such that a pore pressure is applied to the porous sample. In addition, the apparatus comprises a sensor for sensing a change in the sample in response to a change in a pressure experienced by the sample.

Abstract: A comparative pressure monitoring instrument (10) houses a switch (14) having first and second ports (18) and (20), and a high flow impedance 16. The ports (18) and (20) are in fluidal communication with a first pressure source (72) and a second pressure source (82) respectively. The impedance (16) is coupled (i.e. shunted) across the switch ports (18) and (20) and the first and second pressure sources (72, 82). The switch (14) switches between a first state characterised by a pressure differential across the impedance (16) being less than a preset level and a second state characterised by the pressure differential across the impedance (16) being equal to or greater than the preset difference. Any difference in pressure between the sources (72) and (82) will cause an air/gas flow through the impedance (16) and thus a pressure drop across the impedance (16).

Abstract: This invention relates to dialysis systems and methods. In some implementations, a method includes applying vacuum pressure to a device of a dialysis system, and then determining, based on a detected fluid level or measured pressure, whether the device is functioning properly.

Abstract: A device for carrying out a test on a fluid circuit of an aircraft including a test unit which includes, at the inlet, at least one means of connection to a pressurized gas supply connected to means for regulating the pressure of the gas provided by the supply as a function of the test to be carried out and, at the outlet, at least two connection means connected to the means for regulating the pressure of the gas, wherein at least two connection means have different dimensions tailored to a range of pressures or a given pressure.

Abstract: A method of monitoring a tube or pipeline, wherein an IP comprising an electronics module arrangement, is driven along the interior of the tube or pipeline by fluid pressure, wherein the IP transmits monitoring signals through the fluid that provides the pressure to the wall of the tube or pipeline, receives signals returned from the wall, analyzes the returned signals and stores data relating to the condition of the wall of the pipeline.

Abstract: A method of monitoring status of an energy reserve accumulator, connected to a fluid system, includes the following successive operations once the fluid system has stabilized for pressure: measuring a first time taken by the fluid system to progress from a predetermined first pressure to a predetermined second pressure, lower than the predetermined first pressure; measuring a second time taken by the system to progress from a predetermined third pressure, lower than the predetermined second pressure, to a predetermined fourth pressure, lower than the predetermined third pressure; and comparing the first and second times to determine the status of the energy reserve accumulator. Such a method may find use for example in an aircraft.

Abstract: Systems and methods are provided for measuring the permeance of a material. The permeability of the material may also be derived. Systems typically provide a liquid or high concentration fluid bath on one side of a material test sample, and a gas flow across the opposing side of the material test sample. The mass flow rate of permeated fluid as a fraction of the combined mass flow rate of gas and permeated fluid is used to calculate the permeance of the material. The material test sample may be a sheet, a tube, or a solid shape. Operational test conditions may be varied, including concentration of the fluid, temperature of the fluid, strain profile of the material test sample, and differential pressure across the material test sample.

Abstract: This disclosure relates generally to systems and methods for testing hoses, and also to a configuration for an intensifier for increasing the pressure and temperature of oil within the hoses to be tested.

Abstract: A protocol for determining the effect of water composition on surface alteration is described using simple and less preparation sensitive, brine/oil and rock/brine/air systems when compared to conventional rock/brine/oil measurement methods. A model glass/brine/oil system is described and it is demonstrated that experimental measurements of contact angle obtained using a conventional approach agree well with the contact angles predicted using the proposed protocol.

Abstract: A fluid percussion system for modeling penetrating brain injury includes a fluid percussion device that takes inputs in the form of pressurized gas and electrical signals from a computer and outputs a single hydraulic pulse, or multiple hydraulic pulses in quick succession. The fluid percussion device may include a pneumatic cylinder assembly and a hydraulic cylinder assembly that is actuated by the pneumatic cylinder assembly to produce the hydraulic pulse(s) of pressurized fluid. Each pulse may be used to rapidly inflate and deflate an attached balloon (representing a brain penetrating device). The balloon may be inserted in a test specimen, and the rapid inflation and deflation of the balloon creates a lesion that simulates a penetrating brain injury. A calibration system that employs an optical sensor may be used to determine maximum balloon diameter achieved during rapid inflation.

Abstract: A hydrostatic testing tool for testing containers, hoses or the like under high pressures. The testing tool having a coupling that threadably engages a threaded aperture of a test container without having to be rotated into the threaded aperture. The hydrostatic testing tool may be hooked up to a source of pressurized medium and the tool includes a container-engaging head having a plurality of collet segments that each have a threaded surface that can expand radially outward, partially due to the force of the pressurized medium, to engage a threaded aperture of the test container, allowing for the formation of a liquid and/or gas tight seal under high pressures. The testing tool further includes an actuating unit connected to the head that controls the movement of the collet segments with a piston or the like.

Abstract: The shut-off valve testing system provides for the testing of the main shut-off valve of a combustible gas supply line in such facilities as refineries, factories, or other plants utilizing such gaseous fuel. The system includes a combination hydraulic-pneumatic cylinder receiving pneumatic pressure from a suitable source, the cylinder communicating hydraulically with a hydraulic actuator for the main shut-off valve. The system provides for testing of the shut-off valve by actuating the valve through a portion of its full travel, thus confirming that the valve is free. This is accomplished by shutting off the pneumatic pressure to one side of the hydraulic-pneumatic cylinder, and opening the hydraulic line between the cylinder and the actuator. Thus, hydraulic pressure from the actuator can bleed to the cylinder, allowing the actuator to move to the extent of the limiting spring and/or pneumatic pressure to the opposite side of the cylinder.

Abstract: An illustrative embodiment of a fuel overflow alarm system includes a fuel tank, a pressure-sensing tube provided in fluid communication with the fuel tank, a pressure sensor provided in fluid communication with the pressure-sensing tube, a microcontroller interfacing with the pressure sensor and a fuel gauge connected to the microcontroller.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for monitoring swelling changes consists of a cylindrical cell assembly (80) capable of withstanding high pressure and high temperature with a wafer holder (48) containing a wafer (42) of solid sample. A sensor rod (56) moves in response to expansion or contraction of the sample wafer (42) and its movement is measured by either an LVDT sensor (66) or a magnetometer (116). Heat is provided via a heater (30) and pressure is controlled via a pressurization inlet (16) or pressurization fluid (68).

Abstract: A breakaway tooling apparatus connectable to a manipulator and at least one tool for limiting the amount of damage to the associated manipulator and tool when the apparatus accidentally engages an obstacle. The detection mount has a narrowed neck region and stepped throughbore adjacent the narrowed neck region for creating a weakened portion that will fracture upon the realization of a predetermined force to the detection mount. An air passageway extends from an outer portion of the detection mount to an inner portion of the detection mount, wherein the air passageway is connectable to a supply of pressurized air. A blocking member prevents the pressurized air from passing through the air passageway in the detection mount when the detection mount is not fractured at the weakened portion, and the blocking member allows pressurized air to flow through the air passageway in the detection mount when the detection mount is fractured at the weakened portion.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an apparatus for producing foamed bitumen for a road construction machine, comprising at least one mixing device having a reaction chamber, in which hot bitumen and at least one reaction fluid can be mixed together via an inlet device comprising at least one inlet nozzle and can be discharged from the mixing device via an outlet device, with at least one compressed-air device being provided, via which the inlet device and/or the outlet device can be subjected to a compressed-air stream for testing and/or cleaning purposes. The present invention further also relates to a method for maintaining such an apparatus.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for monitoring swelling changes consists of a cylindrical cell assembly (80) capable of withstanding high pressure and high temperature with a wafer holder (48) containing a wafer (42) of solid sample. A sensor rod (56) moves in response to expansion or contraction of the sample wafer (42) and its movement is measured by either an LVDT sensor (66) or a magnetometer (116). Heat is provided via a heater (30) and pressure is controlled via a pressurization inlet (16) or pressurization fluid (68).

Abstract: A method and apparatus are disclosed for determining a condition at an item of media container. The method includes the steps of locating a suction element at a pick up region of a container, selectively connecting a source of negative pressure to the suction element, determining a pressure at the suction element, and determining a condition of the container responsive to the determined pressure.