With Indicator, Register, Recorder, Alarm Or Inspection Means Patents (Class 137/551)
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Patent number: 7317402Abstract: An alarm is associated with a device for dispensing volatile anesthetics. The alarm and device is designed such that an alarm is triggered whenever the operating voltage is interrupted and an assembly unit that determines the dispensing of at least one anesthetic is not in a prescribed state of operation.Type: GrantFiled: July 7, 2005Date of Patent: January 8, 2008Assignee: Dräger Medical AG & Co. KGaAInventors: Claus Bunke, Jürgen Müller, Matthias Witt, Sven Heyer, Michael Heidschmidt, Martin Wunderlich
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Publication number: 20070181192Abstract: An apparatus for monitoring gas flow in a semiconductor manufacturing equipment, includes an exhaust line, a flow amount measuring unit, and a controller unit having a first input electrically connected to the flow amount measuring unit and a second input having a predetermined reference value, the controller unit having the capability of comparing data in the first input to the predetermined reference value in the second input and generate a signal when the data in the first input exceed the predetermined reference value. The apparatus of the present invention may be incorporated into a gas delivery system employed in semiconductor manufacturing to detect gas leaks.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 12, 2006Publication date: August 9, 2007Inventors: Sang-Kook Choi, Chang-Hyun Lim, Young-Sang Lee, Nam-Oh Kim
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Patent number: 7204270Abstract: A device includes a housing that has a plurality of monolithically formed walls, wherein selected walls are provided with inlet and outlet ports respectively. The housing includes a coupling in fluid communication with the inlet and outlet ports, a mechanism for detecting a fluctuation in water pressure, and a mechanism for selectively prohibiting water flow. The prohibiting mechanism cooperates with the detecting mechanism. The housing also includes a mechanism for providing an audible notification when the water supply is toggled between interrupted and reinstated modes and a mechanism for manually controlling the prohibiting mechanism. The manually controlling mechanism is electrically coupled to the prohibiting mechanism. An internal power supply source supplies power to the detecting mechanism, the prohibiting mechanism, and the manually controlling mechanism. A diode is attached to the housing and is illuminable when the power supply source reaches a minimum threshold level.Type: GrantFiled: April 7, 2005Date of Patent: April 17, 2007Inventor: James J. Hendrix
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Patent number: 7168628Abstract: The present invention provides a device for monitoring the operation of a control valve (1), which is adapted to supply fluid at a predetermined temperature via an outlet (4). The device includes a sensor (10) adapted to be coupled to the outlet (4) so as to sense the temperature of the fluid. An indication device (16) and a processor (18) are provided. In use, the processor is adapted to determine the temperature of the fluid from the sensor and, provide an indication of this via the indication device.Type: GrantFiled: April 10, 2002Date of Patent: January 30, 2007Assignee: Smart Flow Pty LtdInventors: Howard Stephen Sheeran, Jeffrey James Watts, Christopher Joachim Bullen, Scott Milan, Paul Degnan, Timothy Fisher
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Patent number: 7168333Abstract: A system and method of monitoring a pressurized container having an auxiliary device are provided. The system includes a sensor operable to provide a signal representative of at least one operating condition of the pressurized container. The system also includes a control operable to receive the signal from the sensor and generate a warning when the sensed operating condition will impact the operation of the auxiliary device.Type: GrantFiled: August 23, 2002Date of Patent: January 30, 2007Assignee: BS&B Safety Systems LimitedInventors: Geof Brazier, John P. Clark, III, John E. Smallwood
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Patent number: 7152402Abstract: A control valve, and a control module including such a control valve, for selectively controlling a flow of pressurised hydraulic fluid from a pump in a hydraulically powered vehicle seat adjustment system. The control valve including a duct for pressurised fluid delivered from the pump, and a moveable valve member which selectively closes off the duct. The control valve also includes an integral set of contacts which are arranged to activate the pump to provide a supply of pressurised hydraulic fluid to the duct when the valve member is in the second operative position in which hydraulic fluid is permitted to flow though the duct. The control valves are preferably mounted within the control module which defines an internal chamber forming a reservoir of the hydraulically powered vehicle seat adjustment system. The control module is mounted upon a side valance of the seat as a single integrated unit.Type: GrantFiled: October 22, 2004Date of Patent: December 26, 2006Assignee: Lear CorporationInventor: Hugh H. Christopher
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Patent number: 7145467Abstract: A medical gas alarm system for use in a healthcare facility having a medical gas system and having a network of computer devices is provided. The alarm system includes at least one area alarm controller adapted to receive a first signal indicative of a condition of a first portion of the medical gas system. The area alarm controller is adapted to communicate with the network. The alarm system also includes at least one master alarm controller adapted to receive a second signal indicative of a condition of a second portion of the medical gas system. The master alarm controller is adapted to communicate with the network. The area alarm controller is adapted to communicate with the master alarm controller through the network.Type: GrantFiled: May 25, 2005Date of Patent: December 5, 2006Assignee: Beacon Medical Products LLCInventors: Joseph H. Abel, William C. Bohlinger, Stanton H. Breitlow, Edward W. Catton, Thomas J. Dubisar, James P. Hentges, Richard E. Hoffman, William J. Kaht, Nick D. LaBare, Robert O. Moran, Thomas R. Pfingsten, Phillip B. Plyler, John M. Sharer, John B. Wilker, Sr., Dale T. Wolfe
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Patent number: 7129832Abstract: A high/low level alarm controller having ability to interface with level sensing equipment and instrumentation in a manner that isolates the controller from downstream components is presented. The controller accepts power, logic and transduced level inputs; output from the controller is available to drive relays, solenoid valves, motors, pumps, alarm horns, etc. The high/low level alarm controller is ideal for existing/retrofit applications and new installations alike.Type: GrantFiled: August 30, 2004Date of Patent: October 31, 2006Inventor: Daniel Sabatino
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Patent number: 7121525Abstract: A method of determining timing clearance between a valve stem and a moving member using an electromagnetic actuator comprising electromagnets, an electromagnet for moving the moving member from a closed position towards an open position and an electromagnet for moving the moving member from an open position towards a closed position, each electromagnet being controlled on the basis of a reference electrical characteristic, the method comprising: controlling an electromagnet to obtain a displacement speed for a moving member as the moving member moves from one of a closed position or an open position towards the other one of an open position or a closed position; obtaining values of a reference electrical characteristic for intermediate positions of the moving member; and detecting an intermediate position at which the reference electrical characteristic is subject to a sudden change.Type: GrantFiled: July 10, 2003Date of Patent: October 17, 2006Assignee: Johnson Controls Technology CompanyInventor: Nicolas Gelez
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Patent number: 7077148Abstract: The redundant valve system 10 of the preferred embodiments includes a first valve unit 12, a second valve unit 14, a third valve unit 16, a first diagnostic device 18, a second diagnostic device 20, and a control unit 22. The third valve unit has a first position that allows fluid flow toward the first valve unit and a second position that allows fluid flow toward the second valve unit. The first diagnostic device and the second diagnostic device are adapted to detect the presence of a fault in the first valve unit and the second valve unit, respectively. The control unit is coupled to the third valve unit and adapted to cycle between a first operation mode that requests the first position for the third valve unit and a second operation mode that requests the second position for the third valve unit.Type: GrantFiled: January 13, 2004Date of Patent: July 18, 2006Assignee: Ross Operating Valve CompanyInventors: Richard E. Schnell, Eric Oden Cummings, Mark Entwistle
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Patent number: 7044154Abstract: The invention is a detection and prevention system to detect and prevent fluid leaks in a property that may cause damage to the property. The sources of the leaks may include, for example, toilets, hot water heater, sinks, washing machines, water makers and broken pipes or other sources of fluid leaks. The inventive may include one or more sender units that may be positioned at various locations on a property. The sender units may have a fluid sensor (for detecting a fluid leak) and a transmitter (for communicating with a base unit). The base unit may receive signals from the transmitter when the fluid sensors detect a fluid. The base unit may then communicate with a main shut off valve to restrict the flow of fluids onto the property.Type: GrantFiled: October 22, 2003Date of Patent: May 16, 2006Assignee: Process IntegrationInventors: Robert D. Henderson, Xan D. Henderson, Donald E. Adams, Steven A. Bozsi
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Patent number: 7013905Abstract: The gas monitoring system may include a gas line, an oxygen sensor, a filter, a pump, a indicator, and a controller. The gas line is configured to convey gas from a space configured to receive inert gas to a location remote from the space. The oxygen sensor is fluidly coupled to the gas line at the location. The oxygen sensor is configured to determine a partial pressure of oxygen present in the gas. The filter is fluidly coupled to the gas line between the space and the location. The filter is configured to remove combustible contaminants from the gas before it reaches the oxygen sensor. The controller is electrically coupled to the oxygen sensor and to the indicator. The controller is configured to activate the indicator when the partial pressure of oxygen exceeds a predetermined level.Type: GrantFiled: April 14, 2004Date of Patent: March 21, 2006Assignee: Shaw Aero Devices, Inc.Inventors: Philip E. Jones, Michael J. O'Hara, Brian P. Greenawalt
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Patent number: 7012536Abstract: A system for monitoring the conditions within the fuel storage compartments of a transport tank comprises an overfill pressure vacuum probe installed in each fuel storage compartment and which has a first sensor for detecting the presence of fuel at a predetermined level in the compartment, and a second sensor for detecting the pressure of a gaseous head above the fuel. A signal generator responsive to said first and second sensors produces a first signal representing a normal condition when the first sensor is not detecting fuel in the compartment at the predetermined level, a second signal when the second sensor detects a predetermined predetermined high pressure of the gaseous head, and a third signal when the second sensor detects a predetermined low pressure of the gaseous head.Type: GrantFiled: October 30, 2003Date of Patent: March 14, 2006Assignee: Delaware Capital Formation, Inc.Inventors: Lee A. McConnel, deceased, Colleen L. McConnel, legal representative, Jeffrey K. Hunter, Larry Ace Gibson
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Patent number: 6997212Abstract: A choke valve useful for sub-sea application, having a valve body forming a bore extending therethrough which provides a body inlet, a body outlet and an insert chamber therebetween, and a removable insert assembly positioned in the insert chamber. The insert assembly includes a tubular cartridge having a side wall forming an internal bore and having a port communicating with the body inlet, whereby high pressure fluid enters through the body inlet; a bonnet connected with and closing the upper ends of the cartridge and the body, the bonnet being disengagably connected with the body, and a pressure reducing flow trim positioned in the cartridge bore, the flow trim having a restrictive opening whereby fluid from the body inlet may enter the flow trim at reduced pressure and pass through the body outlet.Type: GrantFiled: October 31, 2003Date of Patent: February 14, 2006Assignee: Master Flo Valve Inc.Inventors: Graham Ivan Kawulka, Larry J. Bohaychuk
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Patent number: 6987448Abstract: A medical gas alarm system for use in a healthcare facility having a medical gas system and having a network of computer devices is provided. The alarm system includes at least one area alarm controller adapted to receive a first signal indicative of a condition of a first portion of the medical gas system. The area alarm controller is adapted to communicate with the network. The alarm system also includes at least one master alarm controller adapted to receive a second signal indicative of a condition of a second portion of the medical gas system. The master alarm controller is adapted to communicate with the network. The area alarm controller is adapted to communicate with the master alarm controller through the network.Type: GrantFiled: August 20, 2001Date of Patent: January 17, 2006Assignee: Hill-Rom Services, Inc.Inventors: Edward W. Catton, John M. Sharer, John B. Wilker, Sr., Phillip B. Plyler, Joseph H. Abel, William J. Kaht, James P. Hentges, Thomas R. Pfingsten, Stanton H. Breitlow, William C. Bohlinger, Thomas J. Dubisar, Robert O. Moran, Dale T. Wolfe, Nick D. LaBare, Richard E. Hoffman
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Patent number: 6970079Abstract: A high/low level alarm controller having ability to interface with level sensing equipment and instrumentation in a manner that isolates the controller from downstream components is presented. The controller accepts power, logic and transduced level inputs; output from the controller is available to drive relays, solenoid valves, motors, pumps, alarm horns, etc. The high/low level alarm controller is ideal for existing/retrofit applications and new installations alike.Type: GrantFiled: May 17, 2004Date of Patent: November 29, 2005Inventor: Daniel Sabatino
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Patent number: 6860288Abstract: A system for monitoring and controlling one or more utility systems includes a utility system main supply line for supplying a utility to at least one of a structure, an area and a building and a controlled shut-off device on the utility system main supply line. The controlled shut-off device is bias toward an open position and is movable toward a closed position upon receipt of an actuation signal wherein the utility is prevented from passing by the controlled shut-off device. A main utility sensor is on the utility system main supply line and a motion sensor that detects occupancy is in the building. A processor communicates with the controlled shut-off device, the main utility sensor and the motion sensor. The processor sends the actuation signal to the controlled shut-off device to move the controlled shut-off device toward the closed position when input from the main utility sensor and the motion sensor indicates occurrence of an abnormal event.Type: GrantFiled: February 23, 2004Date of Patent: March 1, 2005Inventor: Kenneth J. Uhler
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Patent number: 6854707Abstract: A solenoid valve includes a first mounting face and a second mounting face for mounting of a terminal box. The first mounting face is formed with terminal holes in which coil terminals are housed and a screw hole for fixing. The second mounting face is provided with an elastic clip having hooks. The terminal box is in a substantially L shape. A first portion of the terminal box is provided with connecting terminals to be connected to the coil terminals, a connector to be brought into continuity with the connecting terminals, and a printed board mounted with an indicating lamp and electric components. A second portion of the terminal box is provided with locking holes into which the hooks of the elastic clip are locked.Type: GrantFiled: July 9, 2003Date of Patent: February 15, 2005Assignee: SMC CorporationInventor: Shinji Miyazoe
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Patent number: 6823536Abstract: A combination showerhead and electronic media device is provided. The electronic media device is integrated within the housing of the showerhead, thus saving space within the shower. The electronic media device may also be easily removed from the showerhead. In one embodiment, the electronic media device stores digital audio data, such as MP3 formatted audio data, and includes an interface for connecting the electronic media device to an external source, allowing audio data to be loaded into the electronic media device from the external source.Type: GrantFiled: October 23, 2002Date of Patent: November 30, 2004Assignee: Jing Mei Industrial Holdings LimitedInventor: Rudolph Chi Wai Yip
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Patent number: 6820646Abstract: The invention concerns an installation for measuring and displaying protected against risks of being frozen, comprising a fluid metering assembly (1) connected to a fluid supply pipe (2) and a fluid outlet pipe (3). Said fluid metering assembly (1) is mounted in an inspection window (4) below the frost line, said pipes extending in a trench produced in the ground (13) and connected to the inspection window (4). The metering assembly (1) is removable with or without interrupting pressurised fluid. A metering plate (8) retains flexible junction means (9, 10) connecting the intake and the outlet pipes (2, 3) to the metering assembly (1). The installation comprising the fluid metering assembly (1) is useful for maintaining protected against frost and accessible standard valves and fittings, in particular straight or coaxial meters (1).Type: GrantFiled: August 21, 2002Date of Patent: November 23, 2004Inventor: Jacky Helle
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Patent number: 6805145Abstract: A method and a regulating valve for maintaining a fluid pressure within a defined volume (3), and simultaneous registering of discharge of fluid from the volume as a result of leakage or consumption. The fluid is supplied from a pressure regulating valve (20) provided with a means (5-7, 22-26) which opens for the supply of fluid to the volume (3) when the pressure therein has sunk below a first value (P1), and which shuts off the fluid supply when the pressure in the volume (3) has achieved a preset second value (P2) which is substantially higher than the first value (P1). Thus, after each opening of the regulating valve (20) there occurs a distinct pressure increase at the valve outlet. This pressure increase is registered as a pressure pulse, and the frequency of delivered pressure pulses is monitored and utilised as a measure of occurring leakage and/or consumption of the supplied fluid.Type: GrantFiled: April 28, 2003Date of Patent: October 19, 2004Assignee: Framo Engineering ASInventor: Nils T. Ottestad
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Publication number: 20040123649Abstract: Microfluidic devices, systems, and methods measure viscosity, flow times, and/or other flow characteristics within the channels, and the measured flow characteristics can be used to generate a desired flow. Multi-reservoir pressure modulator and pressure controller systems, electrokinetic systems and/or other fluid transport mechanisms can generate the flow, controllably mix fluids, and the like.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 5, 2003Publication date: July 1, 2004Applicant: Caliper Technologies Corp.Inventors: Michael Spaid, Andrea W. Chow, Benjamin N. Wang, Ring-Ling Chien, J. Wallace Parce, Anne R. Kopf-Sill
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Patent number: 6736163Abstract: The invention relates to a pinch valve comprising a housing (1), a sleeve (2), an actuator means (3), pinching jaws or the like valve-closing means (6). The invention is characterized in that the pinch valve has an indicator system adapted thereto for detecting a sleeve damage. The indicator system. comprises an electrode or the like indicating sensor element (10) embedded in the structure of the sleeve (2), or integrally forming a part thereof, having an area that covers the inner perimeter area of the sleeve (2) by its major parts.Type: GrantFiled: February 14, 2002Date of Patent: May 18, 2004Assignee: Larox Flowsys OyInventor: Jarmo Partanen
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Publication number: 20040060602Abstract: Systems and/or methods divert a fluid that has reached a preset alarm limit from reaching the point of use. The system may include a valve control unit; and a hydraulic unit operably connected to the valve control unit. The hydraulic unit may have first and second valves and plumbing pieces to connect the first and second valves to each other and the fluid system; the first valve being a normally closed valve that directs water from the fluid system to drain when energized; the second valve is a normally open valve that will turn off flow from the fluid system to the pure water distribution system. The methods may include flowing a fluid through a fluid system which includes a flow control system for preventing a fluid that has reached preset alarm limits from reaching the point of use; sensing when the fluid has reached the preset alarm limits; and signaling the opening of the normally closed valve; and the closing of the normally open valve to divert the fluid from the point of use to a drain.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 7, 2003Publication date: April 1, 2004Applicant: Gambro, Inc.Inventors: Stephen M. Mullins, Mark E. Richers, Robin Williams
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Patent number: 6701956Abstract: A water control device (10, 70) including a housing (12), including as one unit, an inlet port (14) and an exit port (16) for flow therethrough of water, and a water meter mounting flange (18) and a water flow control valve seat member (20) in fluid communication with each other and with at least one of the inlet and outlet ports, and a water meter (30) sealingly attached to the water meter mounting flange (18), and a water flow control valve (44) sealingly attached to the water flow control valve seat member (20).Type: GrantFiled: September 5, 2001Date of Patent: March 9, 2004Assignee: BermadInventor: Benjamin Berger
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Publication number: 20040025945Abstract: An apparatus and method for notifying a user of a pending empty gas supply tank. The user can input the initial volume of the gas supply tank, a gas monitor can monitor the amount of gas that was injected into the chamber and an indicator can notify the user when the gas volume of the supply tank is at or below a predetermined level so that the user can take the appropriate action. Additionally, a gas volume converter can be included to convert from one volume unit to another.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 6, 2002Publication date: February 12, 2004Inventors: Richard H. Bair, Bryan M. Elwood
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Publication number: 20040016460Abstract: An apparatus for sampling or feeding a flowable material through a wall of a vessel or conduit includes a body having a collection chamber formed therein. A passage has an opening operatively connected to the collection chamber. An orifice is formed in the body and is in communication with the collection chamber. The orifice is located generally adjacent the opening of the passage. A sealing device is mounted to the body to seal and unseal said orifice. Furthermore, at least a portion of the opening of the passage is located flush with or on a process side of the wall of the vessel or conduit when the apparatus is mounted to the wall of the vessel or conduit.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 17, 2003Publication date: January 29, 2004Applicant: NL TECHNOLOGIES, LTD.Inventor: Douglas A. Newberg
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Patent number: 6681795Abstract: A method of introducing a fiber optic conduit into a pressurized gas pipeline includes the step of introducing a translating member into the pressurized gas pipeline via an entry port in a first drilling fitting (18) (8, 70, 250, 300) attached to the pressurized gas pipeline. Tools are deployed within a first pressure lock housing (30) attached to the first drilling fitting by using a first manipulator (34) located in the first air lock housing. The duct rod is advanced within pressurized gas pipeline by a driving mechanism (60), until a second drilling fitting (80) is reached. The translating member is attached to a fiber optic conduit or cable. The duct rod and fiber optic conduit are then pulled back through the pressurized gas pipeline by the driving mechanism. A conduit or cable is installed in a gas service line, to provide an optical fiber between an optical fiber trunk line or ring and building.Type: GrantFiled: October 9, 2001Date of Patent: January 27, 2004Assignee: Sempra Fiber LinksInventors: Scott A. Beals, Ronald D. Hammer, Robert E. Evans
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Patent number: 6671584Abstract: The real mass flow rate is calculated for a variety of gases. The variety of gases are classified into a plurality of classifications, and representative discharge coefficient relationships are previously determined for the respective classifications. When an upstream pressure and a temperature are detected for a certain gas on an upstream side of the sonic nozzle, a theoretical mass flow rate is calculated. After the theoretical mass flow rate is calculated, reference is made to a theoretical mass flow rate-discharge coefficient correspondence table recorded in a memory corresponding to the classification of the gas, to determine a discharge coefficient based on the relationship appropriate for the gas type. After the discharge coefficient is selected, a real mass flow rate is determined as a product of the determined discharge coefficient and the theoretical mass flow rate.Type: GrantFiled: June 13, 2002Date of Patent: December 30, 2003Assignee: SMC Kabushiki KaishaInventors: Toru Horiuchi, Kenji Shinozaki
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Patent number: 6648015Abstract: The present invention provides multi-layer microfluidic systems, by providing additional substrate layers, e.g., third, fourth, fifth and more substrate layers, mated with the typically described first and second layers. Microfabricated elements, e.g., grooves, wells and the like, are manufactured into the surfaces between the various substrate layers. These microfabricated elements define the various microfluidic aspects or structures of the overall device, e.g., channels, chambers and the like. In preferred aspects, a separate microscale channel network is provided between each of the substrate layers.Type: GrantFiled: October 3, 2002Date of Patent: November 18, 2003Assignee: Caliper Technologies Corp.Inventor: Calvin Y. H. Chow
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Patent number: 6640825Abstract: A leak identification and containment device (10, 48, 64) is provided which is designed for application to a valve assembly (12) including a conduit (16) and a valve (18) having an operating handle (20) and an outlet (22). The device (10, 48, 64) includes a flexible bag (24, 50, 66) formed of synthetic resin material which is at least translucent (and preferably substantially transparent) with a valve-receiving opening (30, 52) and an absorbent lining (34) on the inner surfaces of the bag (24, 50, 66). In use, the bag (24, 50, 66) is disposed over the valve assembly (12) including handle (20) and outlet (22) and a cinch strap (34, 54) is used to tighten the bag (24, 50, 66) about the conduit (16). The absorbent lining (34) is of a color which contrasts with that of material which may leak from the valve assembly (12), so that the device (10, 48, 64) gives a visual indication of leakage.Type: GrantFiled: February 12, 2002Date of Patent: November 4, 2003Assignee: Andax Environmental CorporationInventor: Patrick F. McAtarian
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Patent number: 6635172Abstract: An apparatus for enhancing the water quality in a subterranean pressurized water system is disclosed and provides a discharge passage control via a valve that can be actuated electronically at the location of the valve or remotely. The discharge through the apparatus permits the flow of water in the subterranean pressurized water system and a corresponding discharge of contaminants and increased concentration of disinfectants supplied to the subterranean pressurized water system by the water system manager. The discharge can occur directly to a below ground drain such as a storm drain, sewer or drain field.Type: GrantFiled: December 12, 2001Date of Patent: October 21, 2003Inventor: Michael R. Newman
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Publication number: 20030168106Abstract: The invention is a gravity fed dispensing apparatus for waste water treatment biocatalyst. It uses a microprocessor to control an electromechanical solenoid value in order to dispense predefined amounts of liquid. It preferably comprises six major components. They are: 1) a printed circuit board, 2) a battery, 3) a solenoid valve, 4) a body having a base and a housing, 5) a reservoir, and 6) a hanger. The unit has the smallest footprint available for dispensing biocatalyst or other vital products into a waste water treatment system.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 27, 2003Publication date: September 11, 2003Inventors: Gary Morgan, Henry B. Schur
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Patent number: 6614354Abstract: A method for monitoring an in-ground pipeline by detecting an occurrence of a contact with an in-ground pipeline via an acoustic sensor employing a first selected detection parameter and a second sensor employing a second selected detection parameter, which is different from the first selected detection parameter. The locations of the acoustic sensor and the second sensor are known and the input signals from the sensors arrive at a processor at different times and at known respective speeds such as to permit a determination of the point of contact with the in-ground pipeline.Type: GrantFiled: March 2, 2001Date of Patent: September 2, 2003Assignee: Gas Research InstituteInventors: Harvey Haines, Robert B. Francini
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Publication number: 20030154794Abstract: A pressure mediator includes a base body 20; a divider diaphragm system having a first divider diaphragm 31 and a second divider diaphragm 21, between which an intermediate chamber is enclosed in pressuretight fashion, in which the first surface of the first divider diaphragm 321, remote from the intermediate chamber, can be acted upon by the pressure prevailing in the first medium, and the first surface of the second divider diaphragm 21, remote from the intermediate chamber, is oriented toward the base body and is secured by its peripheral region to the base body, forming a pressure chamber between the base body and the second divider diaphragm 31, and the pressure chamber can be filled with the second medium and has a pressure chamber opening, through which the pressure can be transmitted by means of the second medium, and an exertion of pressure of the first divider diaphragm can also be transmitted to the second divider diaphragm via the intermediate volume; and having a sensor 4, for monitoring a properType: ApplicationFiled: January 10, 2003Publication date: August 21, 2003Inventor: Olaf Textor
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Patent number: 6598454Abstract: A system and method for monitoring a pressure relief device are provided. The system includes a release sensor that provides an indication when the pressure relief device activates. A wireless transmitter is connected to the release sensor and sends a wireless transmission having an activation signal when the indication is provided by the release sensor. A receiver receives the wireless transmission from the transmitter and generates a warning when the activation signal is identified.Type: GrantFiled: July 30, 2001Date of Patent: July 29, 2003Assignee: BS&B Safety Systems, Inc.Inventors: Geof Brazier, John P. Clark, III, John E. Smallwood
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Patent number: 6588444Abstract: A safety reel for storing, paying out and rewinding tube is provided. As tubing is paid out of the reel a coil spring is wound tight to provide the energy to recoil the tubing when desired. In this way tubing may be reeled up to a desired length and is thereby not underfoot, causing potential tripping hazards and tube crushing situations. The safety reel of the present invention allows the quick and easy replacement of tubing. The reel and case are provided with easy alignment devices such that the internal reel hose guide inlet and the external case payout opening may be quickly and easily aligned together so that tubing may be quickly and easily replaced. In this manner the user is encouraged to replace the tubing at recommended intervals so that germs, bacteria and the like are minimized and the user's health is better protected.Type: GrantFiled: June 22, 2001Date of Patent: July 8, 2003Assignee: Medical Safety Devices, LLCInventors: Adam Paplow, Scott Nathanson, Lynn M. Taussig
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Publication number: 20030116200Abstract: A subsea actuator and method is disclosed that includes all moving components mounted in a compact, concentric configuration. The subsea actuator is highly reliable and will operate at depth even with zero valve body cavity pressure. A preferably cup-shaped spring pusher is provided in telescoping relationship to the hydraulic chamber. A piston position indicator is provided which is connected externally to the hydraulic piston cylinder to avoid the possibility of hydraulic leaks due to the piston indicator. A manual override may be provided with a manual override indicator. The manual override indicator has a shorter travel length than the manual override operating stem to thereby reduce the overall length of the manual override assembly. The driving stem provides a removable connection to the hydraulic piston from the top of the actuator housing and a quick disconnect permits disconnection of the driving stem from the valve stem.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 3, 2002Publication date: June 26, 2003Inventor: Alagarsamy Sundararajan
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Patent number: 6548263Abstract: The present invention describes novel methods for making a substrate for selective cell patterning, and the substrates themselves, wherein the method comprises contacting reactive hydroxyl groups on the surface of a substrate with a hydroxyl-reactive bifunctional molecule to form a monolayer, and using stencils to deposit cell repulsive or cell adhesive moieties in controlled locations on the cell culture substrate. Methods comprising selective differentiation of stem cells to create tissue specific and organ-specific cell substrates, as well as the cell substrates themselves are also provided.Type: GrantFiled: March 31, 2000Date of Patent: April 15, 2003Assignee: Cellomics, Inc.Inventors: Ravi Kapur, Terri Adams
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Patent number: 6532980Abstract: The invention relates to a method and apparatus for determining the switching pressure of a safety appliance, which is adapted to safeguard an installation against exceeding, or falling below, a gas pressure. An increasing pressure is applied to the safety appliance such that the applied increasing pressure rises in accordance with an exponential function. Due to the constant relative increase in the pressure supplied to the safety appliance, it is not necessary to take into account settings of the safety appliance. Errors resulting from incorrect settings by the user are thus prevented.Type: GrantFiled: August 22, 2001Date of Patent: March 18, 2003Assignee: Kamstrap B.V.Inventor: Jacobus F. A. Langeveld
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Patent number: 6526907Abstract: A flow indicating device including a tube, a turbine wheel, and a cylinder is described. The tube defines a flow path. The turbine wheel is mounted in the tube for rotation alongside an inside wall of the tube. The turbine wheel has a plurality of turbine blades. The cylinder is mounted outside the tube for rotation alongside an outside wall of the tube. The cylinder is magnetically coupled to the turbine wheel through the sidewall of the tube so that rotation of the turbine wheel causes rotation of the cylinder. A visually observable pattern is provided on an outside surface of the cylinder so that rotation of the cylinder can be visually ascertained. The device is easy to install and provides an indication of flow within the pipe which is highly visible, easy to read, and viewable from any location around the pipe.Type: GrantFiled: August 20, 2001Date of Patent: March 4, 2003Inventor: Wade L. Donehue
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Patent number: 6523370Abstract: A system for detecting the relative attachment of hot and cold inlet water hoses to a washing machine monitors the temperature of at least one of the hot and cold water inputs to determine if the temperature is increasing or decreasing. Once the hoses.are correctly identified, this information is stored in permanent memory of the machine. This stored information is preferably checked during subsequent cold fill operations.Type: GrantFiled: September 21, 2001Date of Patent: February 25, 2003Assignee: Maytag CorporationInventors: John F. Broker, Evan R. Vande Haar
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Patent number: 6519790Abstract: An optoelectronic device assembly mounted to bathroom equipment is mainly made up of a silicon chip, a face board in match with the silicon chip, a water proof seal plate in combination with a piece of bathroom equipment, such as a faucet, a shower head, a sink platform and a flush tank and bath tub that can be in direct contact with water. The silicon chip of a proper size and thickness is designed in conformance to the dimension and shape of a staged receiving hole of the bathroom equipment and is provided with an extended probe needle or a limiting switch which can be actuated by flow water in bathroom equipment whereby the brightness, colors of source light or sound produced by the silicon chip can be varied in response to the variation of water flow and the temperature thereof either for a change or warning purpose.Type: GrantFiled: July 11, 2001Date of Patent: February 18, 2003Assignee: Chung Cheng Faucet Co., Ltd.Inventor: Hsi Chia Ko
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Patent number: 6517720Abstract: A filtration cartridge faucet assembly contains a filtration body that is concealed beneath a sink deck through the use of an escutcheon mount. The escutcheon mount permits access to a renewable filtration core from above the sink deck while concealing and protecting the filtration body.Type: GrantFiled: March 4, 1999Date of Patent: February 11, 2003Inventors: Jeffrey K. Aldred, Brian D. Hunter, Hermann Schneider, Hans Nikolayczik, Robert Magyar
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Patent number: 6463949Abstract: The present invention provides a method and apparatus for detecting a status of a valve, the valve being connected to a fluid circuit. The method includes the steps of establishing an expected value of a characteristic of the fluid of the fluid circuit, determining an actual value of the fluid characteristic of the fluid circuit, and determining a valve status in response to the actual value, and the expected value.Type: GrantFiled: December 8, 2000Date of Patent: October 15, 2002Assignee: Caterpillar Inc.Inventors: Alan L. Ferguson, Matthew C. Full, Matthew J. Miller, Michael K. Oudyn, Derek A. Sauder
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Patent number: 6462655Abstract: A fluid flow detector test system includes a flow conduit and a pump for providing a test fluid flow at the detector. A test unit includes a programmed processor coupled to the pump by a drive circuit such as a solid state switch or a relay. The detector's output is coupled to an input port of the processor. To initiate a test, executable instructions, coupled to the processor, enable the processor to energize the pump, creating a test fluid flow. The processor senses the detector's output to evaluate its test performance. An alarm system having a plurality of detectors can include a plurality of such test systems, one coupled to each detector.Type: GrantFiled: November 12, 1999Date of Patent: October 8, 2002Assignee: Pittway CorporationInventor: Simon Ha
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Patent number: 6460565Abstract: A method and apparatus are described for controlling demand of a fluid. The method includes measuring a fluid supply pressure in a supply pipe, determining that the fluid supply pressure is lower than a predetermined threshold supply pressure, and directing a control signal from the fluid information unit to the,one or more demand control units to reduce demand for the fluid. In addition, a method and apparatus are described for measuring density of a fluid flowing through a demand pipe. The method includes determining that fluid flow through the demand pipe is stable, measuring fluid flow rate through the demand pipe, preventing the fluid from flowing into the demand pipe for a sample period of time, measuring a drop in fluid pressure in the demand pipe during the sample period, and determining the density from the measured pressure drop. Also, a utility meter for metering a fluid flowing through a supply pipe and a demand pipe having an audible indicator to provide an audible signal to a user is described.Type: GrantFiled: July 13, 1999Date of Patent: October 8, 2002Assignee: Perception IncorporatedInventor: John S. Titus
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Patent number: 6441744Abstract: Apparatus for performing diagnostics through a regulator is disclosed. The pressure regulator is disposed in a fluid flow passage and has a throttling element moveable in the flow passage. A stem is attached to the throttling element. The apparatus includes a first pressure sensor for measuring pressure upstream of the throttling element, a second pressure sensor for measuring pressure downstream of the throttling element, and a travel sensor for detecting the position of the throttling element. A processor is provided which includes a stored algorithm for determining flow rate based on the measured pressure and travel values, and an alarm routine for generating logic alarms based on the measured operating parameters.Type: GrantFiled: June 23, 2000Date of Patent: August 27, 2002Assignee: Fisher Controls International, Inc.Inventors: Paul R. Adams, David E. Woollums, Jon B. Milliken, Richard J. Vanderah, Stephanie M. Law
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Patent number: 6435207Abstract: A flow regulation control valve for regulating volume flows in pipelines including valve housing with a flow chamber, a control or shut-off member arranged in the flow chamber for setting a desired flow state through the valve, at least one sensor arranged in the vicinity of the flow chamber of the valve housing for sensing a characteristic value of the flow through the flow chamber, an electronic data store or memory for storing specific characteristic values of the housing of the flow regulation control valve, and an evaluation unit which is connected to the sensor and determines the volume flow from the values measured by the sensor with reference to the characteristic values of the valve stored in the data store.Type: GrantFiled: June 18, 1999Date of Patent: August 20, 2002Assignee: KSB AktiengesellschaftInventors: Frank Mewes, Torsten Gabelmann, Alois Illy, Heinz-Juergen Ruckert
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Publication number: 20020104568Abstract: The closing device (16) moves between a position that opens a valve and a position that closes a valve (14), which is specifically a drainage valve used on a chemical reactor (1), a storage vat, a column or other container, and it comprises an interior housing (30) designed to hold a measurement or detection probe (27). It has an opening (38) that is accessible when it is in the operating position inside the valve and which provides access to its interior housing, allowing the probe to be inserted or removed without the need for prior disassembly of either the valve or the closing device. This invention is of interest to the chemical industry, particularly manufacturers and users of temperature measurement devices.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 1, 2002Publication date: August 8, 2002Inventor: Georges Cronimus