With Fluid Pressure Patents (Class 73/37)
  • Publication number: 20130087273
    Abstract: The invention relates to a stiffening component (2) for monitoring the functionality of a structural adhesive layer (6) to be fabricated between the latter and another component (4). According to the invention, the area of the structural adhesive layer (6) incorporates a plurality of air openings and vacuum openings that intersperse the stiffening component (2) and structural adhesive layer (6), as well as a sensor block (28), and the air openings are interconnected by at least one air channel (32), and the vacuum openings by at least one vacuum channel (34), wherein the channels (32, 34) run in the sensor block (28), and at least one of the channels (32, 34) can be connected to an evaluator unit (38) to detect a failure of the structural adhesive layer (6).
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 23, 2011
    Publication date: April 11, 2013
    Applicant: AIRBUS OPERATIONS GMBH
    Inventors: Heiner Stehmeier, Pierre Zahlen, Benjamin Teich, Helene Guinard
  • Patent number: 8413486
    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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 14, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 9, 2013
    Inventor: Tareq Nasser Al-Buaijan
  • Patent number: 8413485
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a method for detecting a defective sandwich component, particularly in aircraft construction, the method comprising the following steps: forming at least one measuring chamber in a core arrangement of a sandwich component, said at least one measuring chamber having an outwardly open end; subjecting the at least one measuring chamber to a predetermined pressure; and detecting and evaluating the pressure forming in the at least one measuring chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 16, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 9, 2013
    Assignee: Airbus Operations GmbH
    Inventors: Martin Bach, Axel Herrmann, Pierre Zahlen
  • Publication number: 20130055792
    Abstract: A method for testing the integrity of a hollow fibre membrane includes inserting a sterile, monomolecular gas into an interior of the hollow fibre membrane, applying a starting gas pressure on the gas in the interior of the hollow fibre membrane at a first point in time, and measuring the pressure of the gas at a second point in time after the first point in time so as to determine a final gas pressure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 6, 2012
    Publication date: March 7, 2013
    Applicant: KRONES AG
    Inventors: Dirk Scheu, Joerg Zacharias
  • Publication number: 20130055793
    Abstract: There is provided a filter clogging apparatus capable of detecting clogging of an individual filter without being limited to the direction in which cooling air is taken in. There is provided a filter clogging detection apparatus for detecting clogging in filter (2) for preventing dust contained in cooling air (7) for cooling object (6) to be cooled from passing through the filter. The filter clogging detection apparatus includes: force detector (11) disposed on case (5) in such a way as to abut on the face on the downstream side in the direction of flow of cooling air (7) of filter (2) and for detecting force applied to filter (2) when cooling air (7) passes through filter (2); and clogging determination part (12) determining that clogging is caused in filter (2) when a value detected by the force detector is larger than a predetermined threshold.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 19, 2010
    Publication date: March 7, 2013
    Applicant: NEC Display Soulutions, Ltd.
    Inventor: Gou Karasuyama
  • Publication number: 20130018301
    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.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 7, 2011
    Publication date: January 17, 2013
    Applicant: FRESENIUS MEDICAL CARE HOLDINGS, INC.
    Inventors: Colin Weaver, Martin Joseph Crnkovich
  • Patent number: 8353197
    Abstract: A differential comparative pressure monitoring system (10) for monitoring the structural integrity of a structure (30) has a pressure source (12); a first fluidic circuit (14), and a reference fluidic circuit (16) which are connected in parallel to the pressure source (12); and a monitoring device (18). The first and reference fluidic circuits (14) and (16) have substantially matched characteristics. The first circuit (14) has a sensor element (20) which is sealed to a surface (28) on the structure (30). The reference circuit (16) is in fluidic isolation from the surface (28) of the structure (30). The monitoring device (18) takes simultaneous measurements of a common fluidic characteristic of the circuits (14) and (16), and produces a signal indicative the integrity of the structure based on a difference between the simultaneously measured common characteristic.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 21, 2008
    Date of Patent: January 15, 2013
    Assignee: Structural Monitoring Systems Ltd.
    Inventors: Nigel Laxton, Henry Kroker
  • Publication number: 20130003049
    Abstract: Flow cytometry concepts are modified to enable dynamic characterizations of particles to be obtained using optical scattering data. Particles in flow will be introduced into a sample volume. Light scattered by a particle in the sample volume is collected and analyzed. What differentiates the concepts disclosed herein from conventional flow cytometry is the use of an acoustic source that is disposed to direct acoustic energy into the sample volume. As the particle passes through the sample volume, it responds to the acoustic energy, causing changes in the light scattered by the particle. Those changes, which arc not measured during conventional flow cytometry, can be analyzed to determine additional physical properties of the particle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 20, 2012
    Publication date: January 3, 2013
    Applicant: University of Washington, UW Tech Transfer, Invention Licensing
    Inventors: Thomas J. Matula, Jarred Swalwell
  • Publication number: 20120311787
    Abstract: The present invention provides a method and system for customization of flow characteristics of a support using permanent and controlled evacuation of interstitial gas during the manufacturing process. The flow characteristics can be customized to provide a stiffer or less stiff support by a comparative degree. The flow characteristics can be permanently changed. The support includes a bladder filled with a fluidized particulate material. The medium of the fluidized particulate material includes interstitial spaces. A predetermined amount of gas can be removed to provide a support having a desired specific support characteristic.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 11, 2012
    Publication date: December 13, 2012
    Inventors: William Purdy, Robert Purdy
  • Publication number: 20120273305
    Abstract: The invention relates to a lubricant distributor (1), in particular for use in central lubricating systems for machines, vehicles, construction machines, or agricultural machines, for conveying and distributing lubricant from a lubricant source to predetermined lubricant discharge points by means of one or more lines,comprising a main distributor (2). The lubricant distributor is characterized in that the lubricant distributor comprises at least one line-break monitor (3) for detecting a pressure drop in at least one line, and in that the at least one line-break monitor (3) is structurally arranged in or on the main distributor (2) in order to create a rigid unit comprising the main distributor (2) and the line-break monitor (3).
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 6, 2009
    Publication date: November 1, 2012
    Applicant: Baier & Koppel GmbH & Co.
    Inventor: Jürgen Brendel
  • Patent number: 8297102
    Abstract: A system, apparatus, and method for testing a pressure-based sensor within a test chamber that can include a lock mechanism that is separate from the pressure release mechanism.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 6, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 30, 2012
    Inventor: Jacques Mouchet
  • Patent number: 8281644
    Abstract: A hydrostatic tester is provided with an elevated test surface allowing tests to be made inside sleeves, pants legs or other hard to reach locations of completed garments. A constant force spring is engaged by way of a straight line clamp to apply pressure and maintain a consistent and constant force on a sandwich seal. A clamping mechanism can be moved to the left or right of test area to provide a clear unobstructed access to position test item. A raised gasket on the test surface prevents hard contact between test surface and seal ring avoiding damage to test items. A blood pressure bulb is used as a pressure source to force water from a reservoir to the test area. A low pressure gauge is positioned for easy viewing to monitor test pressure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 2, 2010
    Date of Patent: October 9, 2012
    Inventor: Jim Quentin Nichols
  • Patent number: 8256086
    Abstract: A method for producing a missile nose cone is disclosed. The method consists of manufacturing a first missile nose cone from a first lot of polymeric material and determining a first rupture value. The method further consists of manufacturing a second missile nose cone from a second lot of polymeric material and determining a second rupture value of the second missile nose cone. Both first and second lots of material are mixed into a test batch with one another based on their associated rupture values. An evaluation missile nose cone is then manufactured from the test batch and a determination is made as to whether the evaluation missile nose cone has a desired rupture value. If a desired rupture value is not obtained, then the mixing and evaluation steps are repeated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 25, 2009
    Date of Patent: September 4, 2012
    Assignee: Lockheed Martin Corporation
    Inventors: Robert A. Shutler, Margaret Rose Manning, Paul A. Leitch, Paul E. Liggett
  • Patent number: 8220314
    Abstract: A lighter device having a flow restrictor and associated methods for manufacturing and testing such lighter device and flow restrictor are described. The flow restrictor may be formed of a porous member to achieve a substantially fixed or varying flame height. The flow restrictor may be tested before or after assembly into a lighter housing by receiving a non-combustible fluid therethrough. The flow rate of the non-combustible fluid may be correlated to the flow rate of a combustible fluid through the flow restrictor to approximate the resultant flame height of a lighter incorporating the tested flow restrictor. The flow restrictor may also be tested by receiving a combustible fluid therethrough prior to assembling the flow restrictor into the lighter housing. In this manner, flow restrictors and corresponding lighter devices may be tested without introducing combustible fluids into such lighter devices prior to shipment. Also, a vacuum may be drawn on a fuel tank of the lighter prior to shipment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 5, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 17, 2012
    Assignee: Zippo Manufacturing Company
    Inventors: James M. McDonough, Ronald J. Meister, Michael W. Johnson
  • Patent number: 8221522
    Abstract: The present invention describes a system and method for accurately measuring the pressure within a filter housing. A pressure sensor and a communications device are coupled so as to be able to measure and transmit the pressure within the filter housing while in use. This system can comprise a single component, integrating both the communication device and the pressure 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 pressure values. The use of this device is beneficial to many applications. For example, the ability to read pressure values in situ allows integrity tests to be performed without additional equipment. In addition, integrity testing for individual filters within multi-filter configurations is possible.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 17, 2012
    Assignee: EMD Millipore Corporation
    Inventors: Anthony DiLeo, John Dana Hubbard
  • Publication number: 20120174654
    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.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 22, 2012
    Publication date: July 12, 2012
    Inventor: Charles R. Smida
  • Patent number: 8210029
    Abstract: A pipeline pressure testing assembly has a fitting defining a flow path and having a port on a wall of the fitting into which a pressure testing device is removably inserted along a central axis of the port for pressure testing. The port is circular, larger than the interior diameter of the pipeline and located at or above the tube forming the flow path through the fitting. The fitting has a recess encircling at least part of the flow path and opening to the port to receive the testing and sealing devices. The recess is formed by two opposing walls inclined relative to the central axis of the recess. The recess walls at the top of the flow path by the port are spaced apart a distance as large as the pipe diameter for cleanout and inspection. A tubular valve stem screws into the testing device and has a rotary valve blocking flow through the tubular valve stem. Flow through the fitting is blocked with the rotary valve closed and the tubular valve stem in a first position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 17, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 3, 2012
    Assignee: Securus, Inc.
    Inventors: Dennis L. Hart, Cristobal Gonzalez, Virgil E. O'Neil, Jeffrey A. Jaramillo, Larry D. Brown
  • Publication number: 20120160488
    Abstract: An apparatus for pressure-testing a tubular body may be installed in the tubular-body interior. The apparatus comprises an activation-device seat, one or more bypass ports, a J-slot with an indexing pin and a spring. When an activation device, for example a ball, lands in the activation-device seat, fluid communication through the tubular body is blocked, allowing pressurization. During pressurization, the activation-device seat moves downward, causing the spring to compress and the indexing pin in the J-slot to move to the bottom position. Upon depressurization after the test, the activation-device seat moves upward, causing to spring to decompress and the indexing pin the J-slot to move to the top position. Upward movement of the activation-device seat unblocks the bypass ports, thereby reestablishing fluid communication through the tubular body. The tubular body may be drillpipe, casing or coiled tubing that is installed in the borehole of a subterranean well.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 19, 2011
    Publication date: June 28, 2012
    Inventors: Jeremie Fould, Joel Rondeau
  • Patent number: 8196453
    Abstract: A laminated sensor comprises a base stratum and a terminal stratum. The base stratum has a first surface that is affixed to a surface of a structure to be monitored. The terminal stratum is affixed to the opposite second surface of the base stratum. A connector is attached to the terminal stratum. The base stratum is provided with first and second channels and that are cut through the thickness of the base stratum. The terminal stratum is provided with holes that extend through the thickness of the terminal stratum. A first pair of the holes are positioned to register with the first channel, while a second pair of the holes are positioned to register with the second channel. A first conduit is formed by the first channel and the holes; while a second conduit is formed by the second channel and the holes. The connector connects with tubes to provide fluid communication between the conduits and a differential pressure monitoring system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 5, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 12, 2012
    Assignee: Structural Monitoring Systems Ltd.
    Inventors: Lawrence John Walker, Nigel Laxton, Andrew Petrow, Duncan Barton, Peter Hughes
  • Patent number: 8196452
    Abstract: A system is provided for collecting data during vacuum molding of a composite part using a mold including an air tight, flexible membrane sealed to a tool. The system comprises a plurality of MEMS sensors coupled with the interior of the mold at different locations over the part. Each of the sensors produces signals related to a process parameter, such as pressure within the bag, that is sensed at the location of the sensor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 27, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 12, 2012
    Assignee: The Boeing Company
    Inventors: Karl M. Nelson, Kurtis S. Willden, Anoshiravan Poursartip, Malcolm D. Lane
  • Patent number: 8186202
    Abstract: An apparatus for sealing tubing to a device, the apparatus including: a first seal configured to seal the tubing to the device, the first seal having a device side in contact with the device and an interior side opposite the device side; a test sleeve configured to surround the first seal and to seal to the device using a second seal; a third seal disposed at the test sleeve and configured to seal the tubing to the test sleeve wherein the test sleeve, the second seal, and the third seal form a pressure boundary about the first seal; a test port disposed at the test sleeve, the test port being in communication with seals, wherein the test port is configured to connect to a seal test device to test the integrity of the seals in communication with the test port; and a plug configured to seal the test port.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 18, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 29, 2012
    Assignee: Baker Hughes Incorporated
    Inventors: Louis F. Lafleur, Ralph Joseph Robert, Jr.
  • Patent number: 8171775
    Abstract: A system for measuring the permeance of a material. The permeability of the material may also be derived. The system provides 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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 27, 2007
    Date of Patent: May 8, 2012
    Assignee: Babcock & Wilcox Technical Services Y-12, LLC
    Inventors: Russell Louis Hallman, Jr., Michael John Renner
  • Patent number: 8158063
    Abstract: A biosensor package structure with a micro-fluidic channel is provided. The biosensor package structure includes a substrate, a biochip, and a cover. The substrate has a first surface, a second surface, and an opening. The biochip is attached on the first surface. A bio-sensing area of the biochip is exposed to the opening of the substrate. The cover is attached on the second surface to cover the opening so as to form a micro-fluidic channel. By implementing the invention, the manufacturing process of the biosensor is simplified and the productivity is increased.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 12, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 17, 2012
    Assignee: National Chip Implementation Center National Applied Research Laboratories
    Inventors: Chin-Fong Chiu, Ying-Zong Juang, Hann-Huei Tsai, Chen-Fu Lin
  • Patent number: 8151628
    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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 12, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 10, 2012
    Assignee: Airmo, Inc.
    Inventor: Charles R. Smida
  • Publication number: 20120060588
    Abstract: Described herein are systems, apparatuses and methods for the design and use of a suction-controlled box for the measurement of stress-dependent soil and water characteristics, shear strength, volume changes and consolidation characteristics from a single unsaturated soil specimen. The suction-controlled box can include a suction control part and a mechanical loading part, which can apply various suctions and mechanical loadings to test a specimen for a full range of suctions. The suction-controlled box can also include a helical water compartment that can flush diffused air bubbles.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 9, 2011
    Publication date: March 15, 2012
    Applicant: THE HONG KONG UNIVERSITY OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY
    Inventor: Charles Wang Wai NG
  • Publication number: 20120031172
    Abstract: A device for applying a force to a planar surface includes a tub, a cavity, a membrane, and an opening. The tub includes a bottom wall, at least one sidewall, and a cavity defined between the bottom and sidewalls. The membrane is disposed within the cavity and a perimeter edge of the membrane is fixed to the tub. The opening is formed in the tub and adapted to receive a pressurized fluid to fill a portion of the cavity below the membrane to displace at least a portion of the membrane away from the bottom wall to apply a force to the planar surface.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 3, 2010
    Publication date: February 9, 2012
    Inventors: Marijo Cosic, Stefan Scheller, Thomas Malysa
  • Patent number: 8109899
    Abstract: A method and device for measuring and regulating pressure and flow in the spinal canal, in order to characterize individual patient's cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) dynamics. A unique disposable tube-set plate, with computer regulated automated solenoids is used to control flow pressure and the location of a small pressure sensor allows for fully automatic control of the analysis process.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 2, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 7, 2012
    Assignee: Likvor AB
    Inventors: Nina Sundström, Kiell Öberg
  • Patent number: 8095241
    Abstract: An evacuation system includes at least one fluid intake, at least one fluid outlet, at least one operational component such as an evacuation motor, and a first read/write device such as an RFID tag for transmitting, receiving, or storing information. The evacuation system also includes a filter having a second read/write device for transmitting information to the first read/write device. A microcontroller, which is in functional communication with the first read/write device and the operational component, interprets the information received by said first read/write device and controls the operational component based on said interpreted information.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 8, 2010
    Date of Patent: January 10, 2012
    Assignee: Medtek Devices, Inc.
    Inventors: Christopher A Palmerton, Daniel Palmerton, Robert O Dean, Jay T Kajdas, Earnest Moehlau
  • Patent number: 8091440
    Abstract: The present invention provides a non-destructive test apparatus which can be applied not only to a structure in dry conditions but also to a structure constructed under water or in a location to which it is difficult for a worker to gain access. The non-destructive test apparatus includes a support frame which is disposed adjacent to the target structure and has a vertical guide rail, and a vacuum box which moves upwards or downwards along the guide rail of the support frame. The vacuum box is attached to the target structure and creates a vacuum therein. The non-destructive test apparatus further includes a hoist which is provided on the upper end of the support frame to move the vacuum box upwards or downwards, a fastening unit which fastens the support frame and the vacuum box to the target structure, and a vacuum pump which creates a vacuum in the vacuum box.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 8, 2009
    Date of Patent: January 10, 2012
    Assignee: Korea Plant Service & Engineering Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Young-Kuk Kim
  • Patent number: 8087285
    Abstract: A test apparatus for testing fluid seals within an aerated fluid includes a container and a fluid located within the container. A plurality of seal coupons are submerged within the fluid in the container. An air supply is connected to the container to aerate the fluid within the container. Testing the seal coupons includes flowing air from the air supply through the fluid to contact the seal coupons. After the air has contacted the seal coupons then the plurality of seal coupons are removed from the fluid. A value for at least one characteristic of the seal coupons is then compared with a standard value.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 29, 2009
    Date of Patent: January 3, 2012
    Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations LLC
    Inventors: Joan M Petit, Roy Fewkes, Michael B Glasgow
  • Publication number: 20110308299
    Abstract: A pressure transmitting device detects, through a pressure guiding tube, a pressure of a liquid, slurry, gas, or the like to be measured, wherein there are fluctuations in the pressure; where the pressure guiding tube blockage diagnosing device comprises: a rising/falling frequency detecting portion for segmenting into a plurality of continuous intervals a time series of pressure values detected by the pressure transmitting device, and for detecting, in each time interval, the rising/falling frequency of the fluctuations; an evaluating portion for evaluating the state of blockage of the pressure guiding tube through comparing, to a specific threshold value, the rising/falling frequency of the fluctuations; and a detecting interval adjusting portion for adjusting a detecting interval for the rising/falling frequency of the fluctuations based on an autocorrelation coefficient for the pressure value.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 3, 2010
    Publication date: December 22, 2011
    Applicant: Yamatake Corporation
    Inventor: Tetsuya Tabaru
  • Patent number: 8069704
    Abstract: A gate valve corresponding to the sealing structure seals an opening of a plasma generation chamber and includes a valve body, a valve stem, and ring-shaped first and second sealing members that seal a gap between the valve body and the plasma generation chamber. The first ring-shaped sealing member is on the side of the plasma generation chamber and is exposed to a plasma atmosphere. The first and second ring-shaped sealing members do not contact each other, that is, a gap is formed therebetween. A plurality of gas grooves are arranged in the length direction of the first ring-shaped sealing member. The gas grooves are formed by cutting the valve body in a direction almost perpendicular to the length direction of the first ring-shaped sealing member, and the gap is in communication with the plasma generation chamber via the gas grooves. A gas injection passage 14 for injecting a gas into the gap is formed in the wall of the plasma generation chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 7, 2009
    Date of Patent: December 6, 2011
    Assignee: Tokyo Electron Limited
    Inventors: Kiyotaka Ishibashi, Yoshiharu Kishida
  • 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: 8063778
    Abstract: A device and method for temporarily plugging and visually identifying the condition of tubes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 9, 2008
    Date of Patent: November 22, 2011
    Assignee: Extundo Incorporated
    Inventors: Clifford L. Johns, Guillermo Camoriano, Bart Nuss
  • 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: 8051703
    Abstract: Methods are provided for testing a honeycomb body comprised of a core portion comprising honeycomb cell walls and a circumferential skin portion overlying at least some outer honeycomb cell walls. The circumferential skin portion includes a cement mixture layer. The method comprises the step of directing a fluid stream from a pressurized fluid source at the honeycomb body. The fluid stream is capable of separating at least part of the skin portion from the outer honeycomb cell walls when the adherence between at least part of the skin portion and the outer honeycomb cell walls is below a minimum threshold. In one example, the method further comprises the step of inspecting at least part of the interface between the honeycomb body and the skin portion during or after directing the fluid stream at the honeycomb body. In further examples, an apparatus is provided for testing the honeycomb body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 27, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 8, 2011
    Assignee: Corning Incorporated
    Inventors: David Lewin Poff, Darin Wayne Felty, John W Mikels, Robert A Smith
  • Patent number: 8032234
    Abstract: A condition of an industrial process is diagnosed based upon process variable information related to a value of a measured process variable. Histogram information is calculated based upon the determined process variable information and time information related to a duration of time the measured process variable has the value. Condition of the industrial process is diagnosed based upon the calculated histogram information.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 16, 2006
    Date of Patent: October 4, 2011
    Assignee: Rosemount Inc.
    Inventors: Scot R. Foss, Terry A. Cureton
  • Patent number: 8028563
    Abstract: A cased hole pressure test tool is used to determine the integrity of cement between two points in a borehole in terms of permeability or transmissibility. The test tool drills at least one probe hole through the casing up to the cement. In one embodiment, two probes are set and the dissipation of a pressure pulse through the cement initiated by the first probe is observed by the second probe. In another embodiment, one probe hole is in hydraulic communication with the borehole fluid and a single offset probe is set in another probe hole. Fluid (water) is then added to the borehole to cause a pressure increase in the borehole fluid. Detection of the pressure increase through the cement by the offset probe is indicative of a loss of hydraulic isolation. Packers may be used to isolate the portion of the borehole under test. A mechanism for generating a pressure pulse of known magnitude is also described.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 4, 2010
    Date of Patent: October 4, 2011
    Assignee: Schlumberger Technology Corporation
    Inventors: Terizhandur S. Ramakrishnan, John Tombari
  • Publication number: 20110232369
    Abstract: A pressure transmitting device detects, through a pressure guiding tube, a pressure of a liquid, slurry, gas, or the like to be measured, wherein there are fluctuations in the pressure; where the pressure guiding tube blockage diagnosing device comprises: a rising/falling frequency detecting portion for segmenting into a plurality of continuous intervals a time series of pressure values detected by the pressure transmitting device, and for detecting, in each time interval, the rising/falling frequency of the fluctuations; and an evaluating portion for evaluating the state of blockage of the pressure guiding tube through comparing, to a specific threshold value, the rising/falling frequency of the fluctuations.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 1, 2009
    Publication date: September 29, 2011
    Inventors: Tetsuya Tabaru, Masato Tanaka
  • Publication number: 20110232368
    Abstract: An apparatus and process for testing a sample of a hydraulic fracturing fluid is provided. A small quantity of a fracturing fluid sample to be observed and/or tested is placed in a chamber designed with suitable heat and pressure simulation apparatus. With the sample chamber, the efficacy of the fracturing fluid can be ascertained, improper fracturing fluid compositions and/or mixtures, e.g., caused by human error, can be detected, and contamination of the frac-tank can be determined. The overall apparatus is portable and can be transported to the site of the fracturing fluid tank, thereby allowing testing immediately prior to introduction into the well. The samples in the test chamber can be observed for quality control and quality assurance prior to, or during stimulation and water shutoff treatments in the field.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 23, 2010
    Publication date: September 29, 2011
    Inventors: Abdullah M. Al-Dhafeeri, Abdullah M. Al-Harith, Omar A. Al-Fuwaires
  • Patent number: 8024961
    Abstract: A permeameter including a fluid control chamber, a permeability specimen area, and a first outlet from the specimen area measuring fluid as a function of a normal permeability of at least one specimen in the specimen area and a second outlet from the specimen area receiving and measuring further fluid as a function of a radial permeability of the at least one specimen in the specimen area.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 12, 2008
    Date of Patent: September 27, 2011
    Assignee: Schaeffler Technologies GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventors: Bulent Chavdar, Gregory Heeke
  • Patent number: 8007568
    Abstract: The present invention describes a system and method for accurately measuring the pressure within a filter housing. A pressure sensor and a communications device are coupled so as to be able to measure and transmit the pressure within the filter housing while in use. This system can comprise a single component, integrating both the communication device and the pressure 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 pressure values. The use of this device is beneficial to many applications. For example, the ability to read pressure values in situ allows integrity tests to be performed without additional equipment. In addition, integrity testing for individual filters within multi-filter configurations is possible.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 12, 2006
    Date of Patent: August 30, 2011
    Assignee: Millipore Corporation
    Inventors: Anthony DiLeo, John Dana Hubbard
  • Publication number: 20110163030
    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.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 7, 2010
    Publication date: July 7, 2011
    Applicant: Fresenius Medical Care Holdings, Inc.
    Inventors: Colin Weaver, Martin Joseph Crnkovich
  • Publication number: 20110146385
    Abstract: Prostheses are fatigue tested using an apparatus under simulated physiological loading conditions. A fluid housing defines an entrance chamber having fluid outflow ports and an exit chamber having opposing fluid inflow ports and a central flow conduit in communication with the entrance chamber and the exit chamber. A plurality of housing tubes into which prosthesis are deployed may extend between the fluid outflow and inflow ports. Alternatively, tubular prostheses may be connected directly between the inflow and outflow ports. A reciprocating linear drive pump having a flexible diaphragm is provided to cyclically pressurize fluid through a common closed loop within the fluid housing and drive the pressurized fluid through the prosthesis being tested. The test system is capable of rotation independent of the motor drive for accurate diameter measurements of all test samples at elevated frequencies.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 22, 2010
    Publication date: June 23, 2011
    Inventors: Craig Weinberg, Benjamin McCloskey, Steven Weinberg
  • Patent number: 7963302
    Abstract: An inspection machine for inspecting the volume of liquid contained by a bottle filed to its defined fill height. A head is lowered and has a sealing plate which seals the open finish of a bottle. A fill tube assembly is part of the head and continues to be lowered until a level sensor is located to sense liquid at a pre-fill level. High and low pressure water lines which are a part of the fill tube assembly are operated to fill the bottle to the pre-fill level. The sealing plate is released and then the process is repeated lowering the sensor to the post-fill level and operating only the low-pressure line to fill the bottle to the post-fill level. The total liquid filling the bottle is then computed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 24, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 21, 2011
    Assignee: Emhart Glass S.A.
    Inventors: Alan E. Thomas, Michael C. Bagley, Philippe Spiteri
  • Publication number: 20110132073
    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.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 15, 2011
    Publication date: June 9, 2011
    Applicant: Biomedical Device Consultants and Laboratories of Colorado, LLC
    Inventors: Benjamin McCloskey, Craig Weinberg, Steven Weinberg
  • Publication number: 20110126868
    Abstract: A method for testing the patency of an endoscopic channel in an endoscope washing machine. In the method, the entrance of the channel is pressurized and then blocked, whereupon the pressure change at the entrance is measured. Where the channel is pressurized using a sequence of pressure pulses, and the maximum and minimum values thereof are determined.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 28, 2009
    Publication date: June 2, 2011
    Applicant: OLYMPUS WINTER & IBE GMBH
    Inventors: Jens Waldmann, Sascha Eschborn
  • Patent number: 7945414
    Abstract: A method for detecting abnormality in a fluid supply line is provided that uses a fluid control apparatus with a pressure sensor so that abnormality of malfunction and sheet leaks of a plurality of valves incorporated into the fluid supply line can be checked easily, promptly and accurately by operating the flow rate control apparatus possessing the pressure sensor. Specifically, using a fluid supply line provided with the flow rate control apparatus possessing the pressure sensor equipped with a flow rate setting mechanism, a flow rate/pressure display mechanism, and/or a flow rate self-diagnosis mechanism, abnormality of the control valves, installed with the flow rate control apparatus and on the upstream side and downstream side thereof, is detected by using the pressure value displayed and/or the value diagnosed with a self-diagnosis mechanism of the flow rate control apparatus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 28, 2006
    Date of Patent: May 17, 2011
    Assignee: Fujikin Incorporated
    Inventors: Masaaki Nagase, Ryousuke Dohi, Nobukazu Ikeda, Kouji Nishino, Kaoru Hirata, Katsuyuki Sugita, Atsushi Matsumoto
  • Patent number: 7942034
    Abstract: A system for testing a mechanical input device of a wireless telecommunication device is provided, where the system comprises a pressure air regulator comprising: a receive unit comprising an inlet aperture and a first contact surface with at least one exit aperture connected to the inlet aperture; a distribution unit rotatably pivoted relative to the receive unit, the distribution unit comprising a second contact surface, which contacts the first contact surface and comprises at least two entrance apertures located at a rotational trajectory of the at least one exit aperture. The distribution unit further comprises at least two distribution apertures, each connected to an entrance aperture, thus providing pressure air when the entrance aperture overlaps with the exit aperture.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 28, 2005
    Date of Patent: May 17, 2011
    Assignee: JOT Automation Oy
    Inventors: Tuomo Mämmilä, Mika Piirainen, Mika Kellokoski
  • Patent number: 7934415
    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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 6, 2008
    Date of Patent: May 3, 2011
    Assignee: Airmo, Inc.
    Inventors: Charles R. Smida, Darrell E. Morse, Daniel L. Lozinski