Abstract: A fully integrated small size implantable sensing device is described, which can include a sensor and an electronic circuit to interface with the sensor and communicate with an external device. Various fabrication methods for the sensing device are described, including provision of wells, created using same fabrication technology as the electronic circuit, to contain electrodes of the sensor and corresponding functionalization chemicals. Such implantable sensing device can be used for a variety of electrochemical measuring applications within a living body as well as actuation by injecting a current into the living body.

Abstract: A system includes a gas exhaust line, a valve coupling the gas exhaust line and a pipe, and a control unit generating a command to open and close the valve, the control unit opening the valve to vent gas from the pipe and closing the valve within a period of time. A method includes receiving a command at a valve to open in order to exhaust gas from a pipe of a sprinkler system through a line coupled to the valve, the command corresponding to a command to turn on a pump unit of the sprinkler system, determining that liquid provided at an output of the pump unit is present in the pipe, and receiving a command at the valve to close in order to prohibit a flow of the liquid through the line.

Abstract: Implantable pressure-actuated systems to deliver a drug and/or other substance in response to a pressure difference between a system cavity and an exterior environment, and methods of fabrication and use. A pressure-rupturable membrane diaphragm may be tuned to rupture at a desired rupture threshold, rupture site, with a desired rupture pattern, and/or within a desired rupture time. Tuning may include material selection, thickness control, surface patterning, substrate support patterning. The cavity may be pressurized above or evacuated below the rupture threshold, and a diaphragm-protective layer may be provided to prevent premature rupture in an ambient environment and to dissipate within an implant environment. A drug delivery system may be implemented within a stent to release a substance upon a decrease in blood pressure. The cavity may include a thrombolytic drug to or other substance to treat a blood clot.

Abstract: Measures are described with the aid of which not only a rupture, but also cracks may be detected in the diaphragm structure of a micromechanical component with the aid of circuit means integrated into the diaphragm structure. At least some circuit elements are integrated for this purpose into the bottom side of the diaphragm, i.e., into a diaphragm area directly adjoining the cavern below the diaphragm.

Abstract: A well choke, and an actuation mechanism for the well choke are described. The actuation mechanism includes a linearly translating drive mechanism which is coupled to a valve member drive assembly through a fluid coupling which facilitates a change in the overall length of the actuation mechanism. Fluid in the fluid coupling can be released in response to fluid pressure exerted on the valve member when it is proximate a valve seat of the choke, to achieve this change in length. In some embodiments, the fluid coupling will provide a retained fluid column and the valve member drive assembly will include a piston with in the fluid coupling which is movable from a fully extended to a compressed, by the release of fluid from the coupling in response to pressure in the chamber reaching a threshold level.

Abstract: Implantable pressure-actuated systems to deliver a drug and/or other substance in response to a pressure difference between a system cavity and an exterior environment, and methods of fabrication and use. A pressure-rupturable membrane diaphragm may be tuned to rupture at a desired rupture threshold, rupture site, with a desired rupture pattern, and/or within a desired rupture time. Tuning may include material selection, thickness control, surface patterning, substrate support patterning. The cavity may be pressurized above or evacuated below the rupture threshold, and a diaphragm-protective layer may be provided to prevent premature rupture in an ambient environment and to dissipate within an implant environment. A drug delivery system may be implemented within a stent to release a substance upon a decrease in blood pressure. The cavity may include a thrombolytic drug to or other substance to treat a blood clot.

Abstract: Pressure-balanced fluid pressure regulators are described. An example fluid regulator includes a fluid flow control member disposed within a fluid flow passageway of a valve body and moves relative to a seat ring to modulate fluid flow through the fluid flow passageway. A valve stem couples the fluid flow control member to an actuator. The valve stem has a pathway to allow fluid from an inlet of the fluid flow passageway to flow across the flow control member between a first side of the flow control member and a second side of the flow control member opposite the first side to pressure-balance the fluid flow control member.

Abstract: A valve assembly in accordance with the present invention includes a head portion and a body portion. A throughbore extends through both the head portion and the body portion. A normal fluid flow path is formed within the valve assembly to provide for the controlled exit of a fluid. The valve assembly also includes an automatic pressure-relieving mechanism. The pressure-relieving mechanism includes a disc designed to burst or rupture at a predetermined pressure and an over-pressure fluid flow path for controlling the egress of over-pressure fluid.

Abstract: A medical fluid connector is described that includes a first fluid connector portion that can be connected to a second fluid connector portion. The first fluid connector portion includes a first locking member, a lumen and a septum for sealing the lumen. The second fluid connector portion includes a second locking member, a lumen and a hollow needle that is retained in and protrudes from the aperture at the end of the lumen. The variation in cross-sectional area of the fluid path through the fluid connector portion is less than 1 mm2 to reduce mixing effects. The use of such a connector for neurosurgical purposes is described.

Abstract: An over-pressure limiting arrangement for a cryogen vessel includes an access neck providing access into the cryogen vessel, a tubular structure extending through the access neck, a turret outer assembly joined leak-tight to the cryogen vessel and defining an interior volume that is separated from the atmosphere by a protective valve or burst disc, enclosing an upper extremity of the access neck and the tubular structure. An egress path defines a route for cryogen gas to escape from the turret outer assembly, and a pressure-responsive quench valve seals the egress path and opens when a differential pressure between the interior of the turret outer assembly and the interior of the egress path exceeds a predetermined value. An auxiliary burst disc, or a valve, is attached to the tubular structure within the turret outer assembly, with an inner surface thereof exposed to the interior of the tubular structure and an outer surface thereof exposed to the interior of the turret outer assembly.

Abstract: A vehicle air-bag inflator includes a container initially containing a pressurised gas and having a vent opening in a wall thereof. A rupturable element, attached to a container wall, covers the vent opening, sealing the interior of the container. The rupturable element is attached to a first support, which supports a region of the rupturable element and prevents the rupturable element from rupturing. A first support, attached to a container wall, is movable between a first and a second configuration, with respect to the container wall. In an initial configuration, a second support supports the first support and prevents the first support from moving from a first configuration to a second configuration. In a final configuration, a second support allows the first support to move from the first configuration to the second configuration. An activation mechanism moves the second support from an initial configuration to a final configuration when triggered.

Abstract: A pressure relief valve (20) for use in connection with a high pressure fluid system has a protective cap (22) for limiting the exposure of personnel to high pressure fluid venting from the pressure relief valve. In an embodiment, the protective cap includes a cylindrical cap body (52) mounted to a distal end (28) of the valve body (24) of the pressure relief valve and a skirt flange (54) extending circumferentially about an open end of the cap body for deflecting the streams of high pressure fluid venting from the pressure relief valve away from an outwardly directed path. A circumferential seal body (70) may be disposed between an inner circumferential surface (66) of the cap body and an outer circumferential surface (68) of the distal end of the valve body.

Abstract: A method of stimulating a subterranean formation using a tubular member with one or more burst disks therein.

Abstract: Microfluidic devices and in particular microfluidic devices incorporating a valve for selectively controlling the flow of a fluid within the microfluidic device are described. Specific examples of a microfluidic device are described, comprising a sacrificial valve, desirably one that is dissolvable on contact with a fluid or that is configured to disintegrate or dissolve on experiencing a predetermined pressure.

Abstract: An overpressure relief plug including a rupture disc and engaging a fill valve in series downstream fluid communication with respect thereto. A gas spring may include a fill port, and the overpressure relief plug and the fill valve in the fill port.

Abstract: A rupture disc for use in a pressure relief system includes a dome having a concave and a convex side and a circumferential flange associated therewith. At least one control score is formed or otherwise produced in the dome at a radial position between an apex of the dome and an outer circumference of the dome. At least one of a depth, a width, a length and the radial portion of the at least one control score is selectively controlled so that the depth, width, length, and/or radial position of the at least one control score controls the pressure at which the dome will start to collapse.

Abstract: A rupture disk for a gas insulated switchgear which includes a thin dome plate that includes a first flange portion and a first dome-shaped portion formed in a dome shape, at the center of the first flange portion; and a rupture guide plate which includes a second flange portion, laminated on the first flange portion, and a second dome-shaped portion has a plurality of slots formed therein to define a rupture shape so that a part of the first dome-shaped portion is ruptured, in a predetermined shape, when an internal pressure increases. End portions of slots, disposed at both edges among the plurality of slots, are provided with rupture restriction openings, respectively, to configure a hinge portion of the second dome-shaped portion.

Abstract: A device for preventing a primary relief valve in a mud system from opening at a pressure lower than a nominal opening pressure includes a flow restrictor between a mud pump of the mud system and the primary relief valve. In addition, the device includes a cavity between the flow restrictor and the primary relief valve.

Abstract: A rupture panel of three layers employs a lower layer (e.g. foam) that is adhesive, a middle layer (e.g. metallic) and a hold down layer. The middle layer has a weakened portion (scoring, openings, for example) that defines the panel burst pressure. A part of the lower layer does not connect to the middle layer. That part that does not connect to the middle layer adheres to the hold down layer. The hold down layer can be in the form of a ring with an open center, the weakened portion of the middle layer occupying a position within the open center of the hold down layer.

Abstract: Two-stage, sequential operation protective assemblies are provided, including a primary protective device (20) having an element (32) which shifts in response to operation thereof (preferably a rupturable burst member (35)), together with a secondary protective device (22). An actuating assembly (24) interconnects the primary and secondary protective devices (20, 22) and has an actuating cable assembly (28) preferably including a cable (94) and a frangible component (86). In certain embodiments, an operator (28) for the secondary device (22) may be provided which includes an actuator (106) carried by the cable (94). Upon operation of the primary protective device (20), the cable (94) and frangible component (86) are tensioned and translated in a first direction. The component (86) then severs, which causes operation of the secondary protective device (22).

Abstract: Systems and methods for venting gas from a gas regulator in the event of overpressurization of the gas regulator are provided. A bonnet for a gas regulator that includes one or more apertures through which gas may vent. The bonnet may be made of a moldable synthetic plastic material, such as glass filled nylon.

Abstract: The invention is directed toward a T-pipe designed for transfer of high pressure fluids through the main run and where the branch run is left in a standby position for possible use in the future. The opening, or outlet, of the branch run is sealed by a material continuous with the main run. An opening and fluid flow in the branch run while the main run is in production and remains under full pressure, is to be provided. The sealing includes a metal membrane which is in contact with the fluid flowing in the main run. The metal membrane is thinner than the wall thickness of the T-pipe and is supported by a plug inserted in the branch run.

Abstract: A hinge assembly for a rupture disk is disclosed. More particularly, a hinge assembly is disclosed having a first hinge member with a flange body and a collapsible hinge, and a second hinge member with a platform hinge, wherein the collapsible hinge is configured to be positioned between the platform hinge and a rupture disk. A rupture disk hinge is also disclosed, having a flange body and a collapsible hinge extending from the flange body. The collapsible hinge may have an approach extending from the flange body, a platform extending from the approach, and a lip extending from the platform. A rupture disk hinge also is disclosed having a hinge extension that extends along a diameter of a flange body across a central fluid flow path.

Abstract: A device for volumetric metering a liquid biologic sample is provided. The device includes an initial chamber, a second chamber, a third chamber, a first valve, a second valve and a third valve. The chambers are each configured so that liquid sample disposed in the respective chamber is subject to capillary forces. Each chamber has a volume, and the volume of the initial chamber is greater than the volume of either the second or the third chambers. The valves each have a burst pressure. The burst pressure of the first valve is greater than the third burst pressure. The first valve is in fluid communication with the second chamber. The second valve is disposed between, and is in fluid communication with, the initial chamber and the third chamber. The third valve is in fluid communication with the third chamber.

Abstract: Accumulation of polymer on equipment, which is in contact with polymerizable material during normal process operation, is minimized by the method and apparatus of the present invention. The method involves positioning and affixing the equipment, such as a pressure relief device, to process apparatus, such as a distillation column, proximate to a wetted region formed by liquid phase fluid in the process apparatus, such that the moving liquid phase fluid is at least intermittently in contact with the equipment and one or more of accumulated polymerizable material, condensate including same, and polymer, is washed off of the equipment. The apparatus of the present invention is effective for maintaining the service-readiness of the equipment, which provides for safe long-term operation of the process apparatus.

Abstract: A pressure relief device and a hydraulic fracturing system having a pressure relief device are provided. In one form, the pressure relief device has a valve body with a linearly extending throughbore between the inlet and outlet thereof. A rupture disc is secured in the valve body so that a frangible dome wall portion thereof has a reverse-acting orientation in the valve body bore. The hydraulic fracturing system includes a pump and a delivery line that receives pressurized fracturing fluid from the pump and delivers it to a well. A pressure relief device is installed along the delivery line. A sensor detects fluid flow downstream of the pressure relief device which allows the pump to be shut down when the downstream fluid flow is detected. The pressure relief device can have a body with a domed rupture disc and the sensor therein.

Abstract: A frost proof sillcock system for diverting water away from a building when a tubular body of a sillcock is broken and allowing an individual to easily repair a broken sillcock. The frost proof sillcock system generally includes an outer tube fluidly connected to a supply pipe within a building and a sillcock removably connected within the outer tube. If the sillcock ruptures, the water is diverted outside of the building by the outer tube. The sillcock is replaced by rotating the sillcock to disconnect from the outer tube thereby allowing a replacement sillcock to be installed.

Abstract: A rupture disk (20), along with associated methods, is disclosed. More particularly, a miniaturized rupture disk is disclosed, comprising a transition area (23) configured to determine a pressure at which the rupture able portion will rupture. A method for forming a rupture disk is also disclosed, wherein a radius (R) of a transition area is configured to set the burst pressure of the rupture disk. A rupture disk having an indent at its apex (24) and a circular line of weakness configured to improve opening performance is also disclosed. Additionally, a method of relieving pressure in a pressurized system is disclosed, wherein a set of rupture disks is provided, wherein each rupture disk in the set has a different radius of transition area. A rupture disk may be selected from the set and installed based on a burst pressure set by the radius of transition area.

Abstract: A rupture feature releases pressurized gas into a diffuser through an egress opening in an inflator wall responsive to a pressure impulse in the inflator. A sturdy rupture fragment is positioned opposite the egress opening. A thin rupture membrane continuously circumscribes and sealingly interconnects the rupture fragment to the inflator about the egress opening. Rupture membrane thickness is less than rupture fragment thickness or inflator wall thickness at the egress opening. The rupture membrane is upstanding from the inflator wall about the egress opening to a constant height. The rupture fragment and the rupture membrane are integrally-formed with each other and with the inflator wall at the egress opening. The pressure impulse impacts the rupture fragment, urges the rupture fragment away from the inflator, detaches the rupture fragment from the inflator by fully transversely fracturing the rupture membrane, and drives the rupture fragment into containment within the diffuser.

Abstract: A rupture panel of three layers employs a lower layer (e.g. foam) that is adhesive, a middle layer (e.g. metallic) and a hold down layer. The middle layer has a weakened portion (scoring, openings, for example) that defines the panel burst pressure. A part of the lower layer does not connect to the middle layer. That part that does not connect to the middle layer adheres to the hold down layer. The hold down layer can be in the form of a ring with an open center, the weakened portion of the middle layer occupying a position within the open center of the hold down layer.

Abstract: The invention relates to a plant for recovering a polluting fluid contained in the tank (4) of a sunken vessel (1) comprising a plurality of pipes (5) fixed to a deck (2), wherein each pipe comprises a first and second ends and, according to the beaching position of the sunken vessel, can form means for introducing a pressurized water into the tank or means for removing the polluting fluid outside thereof. Said invention is characterized in that said pipes are positioned in such a way that the ends thereof enters near each top corner of the tank and the second ends thereof are accessible from the inside of the sunken vessel.

Abstract: A disposable urine bag is provided. The bag includes an upper delimiting edge, a lower delimiting edge and lateral delimiting edges defining a space in the bag. The lower delimiting edge includes a drain valve, whose first drain mouthing in a first hollow element communicates with the space in the bag, and whose second mouthing in a second element is situated outside the delimiting edges of the bag. The drain valve is a disposable valve including a seal between the first and the second element and at least one indicator situated in the area of the seal. A disposable urine bag is provided whereby the drain valve seal may be broken without using significant finger strength and without a risk of the user being soiled with urine.

Abstract: An apertured rupture disc support member (32, 90) is provided for use in a rupture disc assembly (70). A rupture disc (30, 30a) comprising one or more embossed segments (80) that are complemental with the support member apertures (56) is also disclosed. The pressure relief assembly (12) is particularly suited for use in sanitary pressure relief applications.

Abstract: A method of stimulating a subterranean formation using a tubular member with one or more burst disks therein.

Abstract: A burst indicator (24) for use in a rupture disc assembly (12) is provided. The burst indicator (24) comprises a non-electrically conductive material having an outer annular portion (66) and an inner section (68) joined to the outer portion by a pair of bridge features (70, 72). A circuit comprising electrically conductive segments (78, 80) is located on the burst indicator (24) and can be used to monitor the integrity of the rupture disc (20). One electrically conductive segment (78) is located on the outer annular portion (66), and another electrically conductive segment (80) extends across the bridge features (70, 72) and inner section (68). Upon rupture of the rupture disc (20), one of the bridge features (72) carrying an electrically conductive segment (80) severs thereby opening the circuit.

Abstract: An apparatus for rapidly terminating of the flow of any fluid or particulate material through a conduit responsive to predefined dangerous conditions. A particular application will terminate fuel flow through a large fuel supply conduit in a racing vehicle responsive to a fire or accident or other dangerous condition. The apparatus includes a gas supply source that is opened responsive to actuation of the apparatus such that gas passes into a cylinder which moves to force a liquid to hydraulically expand an inflatable member which is operative to expand within the flow conduit to instantaneously terminate material flow therethrough.

Abstract: A low-profile burst disk assembly for safely venting excess pressure from a pressurized fluid system by way of a tortuous fluid flow path. A burst disk plug includes a male thread and is thereby adapted to thread into the body of a pressurizable chamber. The burst disk plug further includes a fluid receiving port placed in fluid communication between the burst disk and one or more bleed channels open to ambient pressure. The one or more bleed channels generally run axially through the burst disk plug, either intersecting or bypassing the male thread. Embodiments with a plurality of bleed channels generally include a distribution manifold positioned in fluid communication between the fluid receiving port and the one or more bleed channels to ensure an even distribution of venting pressure among the bleed channels.

Abstract: A pressure control system for controlling pressure in a tank is provided. The pressure control system includes a base plate, a pressure relief valve, a rupture disc, a first connector and a second connector. The base plate includes a tank side and a valve side. The pressure relief valve includes a body and a connection portion for coupling the pressure relief valve to the base plate adjacent the valve side. The rupture disc is positioned between the pressure relief valve and the base plate. The first connector extends between the base plate and the pressure relief valve to secure the pressure relief valve to the base plate and secure the rupture disc. The second connector is positioned for securing the base plate to the tank.

Abstract: A pressure control system for controlling pressure in a tank is provided. The pressure control system includes a pressure relief valve and a rupture disc subassembly. The pressure relief valve is connected to the tank. The rupture disc subassembly is located between the pressure relief valve and the tank and is connected to the tank. The pressure relief valve is connected such that removal of the pressure relief valve does not affect the connection of the rupture disc subassembly to the tank.

Abstract: A valve/seal assembly that is adapted for use in a variety of applications, such as for example, medical, consumer beverage, pharmaceutical containers, automobile, household appliance and marine. The valve includes, a valve housing having an upper body portion and a lower body portion and a generally spherical valve member. The upper and lower body portions of the housing define an internal chamber for accommodating the valve member and a central axis for the valve. The generally spherical valve member is seated within the internal chamber of the valve housing and has an axial bore extending therethrough. The valve member is mounted for movement between an open position; wherein the axial bore of the valve member is axially aligned with the inlet and outlet ports of the valve housing, and a closed position; wherein the axial bore of the valve member is out of alignment with the inlet and outlet ports of the valve housing.

Abstract: A low-profile burst disk assembly for safely venting excess pressure from a pressurized fluid system by way of a tortuous fluid flow path. A burst disk plug includes a male thread and is thereby adapted to thread into the body of a pressurizable chamber. The burst disk plug further includes a fluid receiving port placed in fluid communication between the burst disk and one or more bleed channels open to ambient pressure. The one or more bleed channels generally run axially through the burst disk plug, either intersecting or bypassing the male thread. Embodiments with a plurality of bleed channels generally include a distribution manifold positioned in fluid communication between the fluid receiving port and the one or more bleed channels to ensure an even distribution of venting pressure among the bleed channels.

Abstract: A relief valve and related systems and methods have particular use in fluid distribution lines. The relief valve comprises a body defining a cavity and comprising at least first and second openings in fluid communication with the cavity. A connector piece is connected to the body at the first opening to connect the valve to a fluid distribution line. A rupture disc is disposed within and obstructs the first opening. When it is desired that fluid from the fluid distribution line be vented from the system, the rupture disc is punctured via activation of an active material initiator and thereby allows for fluid communication through the first opening of the valve.

Abstract: A pressure surge sensor has a body having a cylinder passage, a magnetically actuated electrical switch mounted on the body, and a piston member movable along the passage relative to the switch. The piston member carries a magnet. When the cylinder passage is coupled to a fluid pressure surge source, a fluid pressure surge applied causes the piston member to move along the cylinder passage relative to said switch, thereby actuating the switch. A breakable retainer element restrains the piston member against movement, and the piston is freely movable along the cylinder passage, after release by the retainer. The pressure surge sensor is suitable to be arranged downstream of a rupture disc, which releases overpressure of a pressurised apparatus, for example an extrusion apparatus, or a gas handling or gas storage system.

Abstract: A tear out test plug for plumbing installations includes a cylindrical body having a peripheral sidewall, a closed end and an open end. A positioning flange extends outwardly from the peripheral sidewall at the open end. An end wall closes the closed end. A frangible strip extends from the open end, down the peripheral sidewall, and across at least a portion of the end wall.

Abstract: A tear out test plug for plumbing installations includes a cylindrical body having a peripheral sidewall, a closed end and an open end. A positioning flange extends outwardly from the peripheral sidewall at the open end. An end wall closes the closed end. A frangible strip extends from the open end, down the peripheral sidewall, and across at least a portion of the end wall.

Abstract: Systems (e.g., bioprocessing systems), including methods and apparatus, for controlling the flow of a sterilizing agent (e.g., steam) and/or at least one fluid reagent by utilizing a pressure-responsive valve, such as a rupture valve and/or a swing valve.

Abstract: An apparatus for blocking a medium flow passage in a spray head has a blocking element in the passage that, when unbroken, blocks the passage of medium from a first side having a first pressure to a second side having a second pressure. A supporting element is on that side of the blocking element where the pressure is lower, the supporting element being movable between a first position where the supporting element supports the blocking element so that it cannot be ruptured and a second position where the supporting element does not so support the blocking element.

Abstract: A valve apparatus (100) for use in sterile fluid transfer or isolator systems has open entry (10) and exit (11) sides and a passageway (9) for fluid between the entry (10) and the exit (11) sides. The entry side (10) is connectable to an opening (4c) of a vessel or pipe (4) and the exit side (11) is connectable to downstream processing by means such as tubing, a vessel or a pipe. The entry side (10) includes a rupturable seal (2a) blocking the open entry side (10). Valve (100) also includes an actuator (5) attached to a piston (1) which moves within the valve (100), the piston being connected to the seal so that on movement of the piston, the seal is torn free from the entry side thereby allowing fluid gain entry to the valve (100) and to pass along the passageway (9) between the open entry (10) and exit (11) sides to downstream processing.

Abstract: A coupling used during testing of a water line including an upstream pipe and a downstream pipe connected by the coupling. A removable barrier disk prevents water from flowing through the connected pipes until after testing, when the disk is then detached from the body member of the coupling. A piercing assembly interacts with a groove near the perimeter of the disk to initiate a tear that propagates along the groove as the disk is pulled away from the body member of the coupling. The piercing assembly is attached to the disk by a fulcrum element offset with respect to a center of the planar disk.

Abstract: The pressure regulator is threadable onto the neck of a tank of gas under pressure that has a plug mounted in the neck and a rupturable disk blocking fluid flow through a plug bore. The main body includes a central reduced diameter portion extendable into the plug bore without rupturing the disk when the regulator is threaded to the neck, but when further threaded, ruptures the disk. The combination of the main body and a cap have a bore extending therethrough which opens to the tank interior when the disk is ruptured and to the regulator outlet. A piston is mounted in the body and cap bore that blocks fluid flow through the last mentioned bore when the pressure at the outlet is at or above a preselected level but permits flow therethrough when the outlet pressure is below the preselected level.