Abstract: A method is provided for measuring at least two flow properties of a fluid. The method includes providing at least two nanowires, the resistance of each nanowire varying based on a value of a different respective flow property such that each nanowire is configured to measure the different respective flow property, and operating each of the nanowires in a different respective mode of operation, in order to measure the at least two flow properties simultaneously in real-time. Other embodiments are also described.

Abstract: In the present invention, a temperature sensor system and methods for using the apparatus are disclosed, the temperature sensor having particular thermal-inertia time constants. More specifically, the temperature sensor system comprises prongs having a defined l/d ratio range, a sensing element having a low volume, and constant-current circuitry.

Abstract: A water content sensor is disclosed. The sensor includes a wire filament configured with a Péclet number of 1 or less. The wire filament has an electrically conductive material with an electrical resistance that varies as a function of temperature. The sensor includes a pair of electrically conductive prongs coupled to opposite ends of the wire filament. Electrically conductive stubs may be coupled to the prongs. A structural support may be coupled to the prongs. The structural support structure may be comprised of silicon. The wire filament may be coupled to driving circuitry configured to supply an electric current to the wire filament to maintain the wire filament at one of an approximately constant current, an approximately constant voltage and an approximately constant temperature. The wire filament may be platinum or titanium.

Abstract: In a broad aspect of the invention there are provided liquid infused surfaces that feature drag reducing characteristics. In a further broad aspect, the present invention provides methods for designing and fabricating liquid infused surfaces that feature drag reducing characteristics. In a yet further broad aspect the present invention provides methods for increasing the operating efficiency of systems in which a flowing bulk fluid is in contact with a patterned surface, the increased operating efficiency specifically being realized from a reduction of the drag forces due to the bulk fluid flowing over the patterned surface.

Abstract: A water content sensor is disclosed. The sensor includes a wire filament configured with a Péclet number of 1 or less. The wire filament has an electrically conductive material with an electrical resistance that varies as a function of temperature. The sensor includes a pair of electrically conductive prongs coupled to opposite ends of the wire filament. Electrically conductive stubs may be coupled to the prongs. A structural support may be coupled to the prongs. The structural support structure may be comprised of silicon. The wire filament may be coupled to driving circuitry configured to supply an electric current to the wire filament to maintain the wire filament at one of an approximately constant current, an approximately constant voltage and an approximately constant temperature. The wire filament may be platinum or titanium.