Patents by Inventor Laura E. Brauer

Laura E. Brauer has filed for patents to protect the following inventions. This listing includes patent applications that are pending as well as patents that have already been granted by the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO).

  • Patent number: 5158362
    Abstract: The unknown amount or mass of liquid contained in a storage tank is measured by calibrating the tank in an empty and partially full condition. The calibration includes measuring the mass of the empty tank, and is accomplished by applying a measured amount of heater power or energy to the tank and its contents, and measuring the temperature response to determine the product of total mass multiplied by specific heat. The specific heat depends upon the mass or amount of liquid in the tank, but a linear relationship is established between total mass and the product of total mass times specific heat. The unknown mass of liquid is then determined by applying a known amount of heater power or energy to the tank and its contents, and measuring the temperature rise or rate of rise in response thereto.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 8, 1991
    Date of Patent: October 27, 1992
    Assignee: General Electric Company
    Inventors: Laura E. Brauer, Siu H. Chun, Keith Davies, Joseph A. Pulkowski