With Significant Electrical Circuitry Or Nominal Computer Device Patents (Class 204/406)
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Publication number: 20100270179Abstract: The invention provides a method for measuring a pH value of a sample solution, which is performed by a pH sensing device, including: providing a pH sensing device and a sample solution, wherein the pH sensing device includes a pH sensor array, and the pH sensor array comprises m pH sensors, and m is an integer greater than 1; measuring the sample solution with the pH sensor array for n times, wherein n is an integer greater than 1, n measurement values are generated, each pH sensor generates a measurement value for each measurement, and the total amount of measurement values generated is n×m; and generating a pH value of the sample solution by all of the measurement values generated by the pH sensor array.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 3, 2009Publication date: October 28, 2010Applicant: NATIONAL YUNLIN UNIVERSITY OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGYInventors: Jung-Chuan CHOU, Yi-Hung LIAO
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Publication number: 20100264041Abstract: A system and method are disclosed for utilizing sensors with existing devices. An interface module is used in combination with a newer sensor, such as a fluorescence oxygen sensor, and an older legacy device. The older legacy device supplies a polarizing voltage, and anticipates a measured current of between 0 and 100 nA. The newer sensor requires no polarizing voltage and delivers an output of 0-10 volts in one embodiment, and 4-20 mA in another embodiment. The interface module receives the output from the sensor, and converts it into a useable signal to the legacy device. In another embodiment, the interface module comprises a number of outputs, such that both legacy devices and newer devices can be in communication with the sensor simultaneously. The interface module can be used in conjunction with a reactor chamber or other pharmaceutical process.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 24, 2010Publication date: October 21, 2010Applicant: MILLIPORE CORPORATIONInventors: Michael Joens, Ricky F. Baggio
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Patent number: 7799203Abstract: A gas detection apparatus including a gas sensor element and a gas-sensor control circuit. The gas sensor element includes at least one sensor cell including a solid electrolyte member and a pair of electrodes, and external connection terminals electrically connected to the electrodes. The gas-sensor control circuit includes control terminals electrically connected to respective external connection terminals of the gas sensor element, an inspection current supply circuit for supplying an inspection current to an inspected terminal, which is a control terminal to be inspected for presence or absence of a short circuit to a predetermined potential, an inspection potential measurement circuit for measuring the potential of the inspected terminal, and an uninspected terminal impedance increasing circuit for increasing the impedance of the gas-sensor control circuit as viewed from an uninspected terminal, which is a control terminal other than the inspected terminal.Type: GrantFiled: March 29, 2006Date of Patent: September 21, 2010Assignee: NGK Spark Plug Co., Ltd.Inventors: Norikazu Ieda, Hiroshi Inagaki
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Patent number: 7794655Abstract: A test fluid measurement device includes an output acquisition unit for acquiring an output value from a urinary sugar sensor, when a reference fluid, set to a specified density, is applied to the urinary sugar sensor. By using this output value to set a reference value, a reference value setting unit calibrates the sensitivity of the urinary sugar sensor. During sensitivity calibration, an output value judgment unit determines according to an output value that is already acquired by the output acquisition unit whether or not the output value that is newly acquired by the output acquisition unit is suitable to be set as the reference value. After an output value is determined not to be suitable as the reference value setting, a reference fluid detection unit detects when more reference fluid from which another output value is to be acquired by the output acquisition unit has been additionally applied.Type: GrantFiled: December 14, 2007Date of Patent: September 14, 2010Assignee: Tanita CorporationInventors: Akio Ohashi, Satoshi Ikeda
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Patent number: 7794575Abstract: A monitor is disclosed for monitoring an atmosphere for the presence of a target gas. The monitor includes an electrical gas sensor having a working (sensing) electrode and a counter electrode, an operational amplifier connected between the sensor electrodes, a detector, and a circuit. The sensor provides a current between the electrodes that is indicative of the amount of a target gas in the atmosphere. The operational amplifier generates an output signal according to the current flowing between the terminals where the output signal is indicative of the amount of target gas in the atmosphere. The detector detects when the current flowing between the sensor electrodes exceeds a predetermined threshold. The circuit restricts the potential difference between the sensor electrodes when the current between the terminals exceeds the predetermined threshold by supplying additional current or removing current from the working sensor electrode.Type: GrantFiled: June 26, 2002Date of Patent: September 14, 2010Assignee: Honeywell Analytics LimitedInventors: John Chapples, Martin Legg, Neils Hansen
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Publication number: 20100219085Abstract: Measurements of current from a working electrode and current from a blank electrode are received and a ratio corresponding to the ratio of surface areas of the working electrode and the blank electrode is determined. This ratio is used to correct any differential current offset between an analyte (working) electrode and a control (blank) electrode to yield a more accurate net current output. Systems, methods and computer program products are further described for measuring an analyte concentration disclosed are for calculating the amount of an analyte in a fluid using a biosensor.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 8, 2010Publication date: September 2, 2010Applicant: Edwards Lifesciences CorporationInventor: Henry W. Oviatt, JR.
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Publication number: 20100219074Abstract: An analyzer that, based on a voltage value of an ion selective electrode making contact with a liquid specimen, analyzes concentration of an electrolyte present in the liquid specimen. The analyzer includes a measuring unit that continuously measures the voltage value; a memory unit that stores therein a waveform indicating time variation in the voltage value measured by the measuring unit and reference information used in identifying malfunctioning in the analyzer; an output unit that outputs an analysis result of the liquid specimen; and a control unit that causes the output unit to output the waveform and the reference information stored in the memory unit.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 7, 2010Publication date: September 2, 2010Applicant: Beckman Coulter, Inc.Inventor: Isao Ishibe
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Publication number: 20100213056Abstract: There are provided an interaction detecting portion including an interaction region in the whole of which an electrodynamic effect is obtained, and which has a simpler structure, and the like. There is provided an interaction detecting portion 1 including at least: a reaction region 2 which provides a field for an interaction between materials, and an electrode E1 (or a group of electrodes), having the same potential, which is provided so as to face the reaction region 2. In addition, there are provided a sensor chip, such as a DNA chip or a protein chip, including the interaction detecting portion 1, and an interaction detector using the detection portion 1.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 12, 2006Publication date: August 26, 2010Inventors: Yuji Segawa, Yoichi Katsumoto
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Patent number: 7780829Abstract: A sensor element for the determination of the concentration of gas components in a gas mixture, particularly of the concentration of gas components in the exhaust of internal combustion engines, with two electrodes, that together with a solid electrolyte constitute a pumping cell, whose outer pumping electrode is exposed to the gas mixture by way of a porous protective layer, and with a reference electrode, which is disposed on the solid electrolyte and is exposed to a reference gas, and which with a solid electrolyte and a Nernst electrode constitutes a concentration or Nernst cell, is thereby characterized in that at least periodically the Nernst voltage between the outer pumping electrode and the Nernst electrode is tapped and analyzed.Type: GrantFiled: August 18, 2005Date of Patent: August 24, 2010Assignee: Robert Bosch GmbHInventors: Lothar Diehl, Marcus Scheffel
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Patent number: 7780827Abstract: The present invention relates to a biosensor. The biosensor includes a support substrate, an electrically conductive coating positioned on the support substrate, the coating being formed to define electrodes and a code pattern, wherein there is sufficient contrast between the conductive coating and the substrate such that the code pattern is discernible, and a cover cooperating with the support substrate to define a channel. At least a portion of the electrodes are positioned in the channel.Type: GrantFiled: June 22, 2005Date of Patent: August 24, 2010Assignee: Roche Diagnostics Operations, Inc.Inventors: Raghbir S. Bhullar, Henning Groll, John T. Austera, Douglas P. Walling, Timothy L. Ranney, James L. Pauley, Jr.
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Publication number: 20100193377Abstract: A systems and apparatus for measuring non-electroactive materials in liquids using electrochemical detection. A first electrical activity of a electroactive material is detected in absence of a target non-electroactive material (Step 120). A second electrical activity of the electroactive material is detected in presence of the target non-electroactive material (Step 130). A difference between the first and second electrical activities is obtained, and based on the obtained difference, a concentration of the target non-electroactive material is identified (Step 140).Type: ApplicationFiled: June 29, 2007Publication date: August 5, 2010Inventors: Joseph Wang, Aristotelis Dimitrakopoulos, Celine Le Ninivin, Stephane Mabic
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Patent number: 7767067Abstract: A system automatically maintains at least one of a pH level and a sanitizing agent level of water in a water feature. The system includes a sensor assembly responsive to at least one of a pH level of the water and a sanitizing agent level of the water. The system further includes a controller which generates control signals in response to signals from the sensor assembly. The system further includes at least one of a first source containing a sanitizing agent material and a second source containing a pH-modifying material. The system further includes a third source comprising a valve assembly and a third container containing a liquid calibrant material. The valve assembly is responsive to at least a portion of the control signals from the controller by selectively allowing the calibrant material to flow from the third container through the sensor assembly to the water feature.Type: GrantFiled: April 30, 2009Date of Patent: August 3, 2010Inventor: Michael A. Silveri
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Publication number: 20100187109Abstract: The present invention provides a low-cost hydrogen gas sensor, which exhibits high sensory selectivity for protons and operates at room temperature, and can also provide a highly sensitive sensor capable of fulfilling the important functions of detecting hydrogen gas and preventing leakage accidents in production plants that use hydrogen gas as a carrier, in hydrogen gas storage facilities, and in so-called fuel cells that use hydrogen gas as an energy source. In addition, the sensor is also effective as an acid sensor for hydrofluoric acid and the like. The present invention relates to an acid and hydrogen gas sensor, wherein protons are brought into contact with an organic compound containing an introduced pyridine ring (such as pyridine-DPP), and the change in electrical resistivity, photoconductivity, or optical absorption band for the organic compound that accompanies proton addition is detected.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 21, 2009Publication date: July 29, 2010Applicant: Murata Manufacturing Co., Ltd.Inventor: Jin MIZUGUCHI
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Publication number: 20100176006Abstract: An electronic device includes a substrate and a plurality of sensors. Each sensor is disposed in a well over the substrate and includes a working electrode, an inner filling solution disposed thereover, and an ion-selective membrane. The working electrode is in contact with the substrate and the ion-selective membrane is disposed over the inner filling solution and substantially seals the well.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 14, 2009Publication date: July 15, 2010Inventors: James A. Bickford, John R. Williams, Daniel I. Harjes, Andrew Reiter
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Publication number: 20100170794Abstract: A direct connect oxygen sensor assembly is provided for measuring the proportion of oxygen in a fluid stream, and transmit signals indicative thereof to a controller. The assembly includes an oxygen sensor with a housing having an oxygen-sensing element protruding from one end thereof, and a first electrical terminal positioned at an opposing end of the sensor housing. An electrical conductor electrically couples the oxygen-sensing element to the first electrical terminal. The oxygen sensor assembly also includes a connector assembly with a housing having one or more lead wires, which are directly connected to the controller, projecting therefrom. A second electrical terminal is mounted to the connector housing, and electrically connected to the lead wires. The second electrical terminal is designed to mate with and electrically connect to the first electrical terminal. The connector housing is fabricated from a material with a working temperature of at least 200 degrees Celsius.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 6, 2009Publication date: July 8, 2010Applicant: GM GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS, INC.Inventors: Bradley Gibson, Teresa L. Schulke, Jeffrey A. Sell, Andrew W. Baur
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Publication number: 20100170795Abstract: An electrochemical gas sensor has a hollow housing with multi-layer walls. A first layer of the walls has a selected water vapour transport rate. A second layer of the walls has a lower water vapour transport rate than the selected rate. The housing can be formed by first and second moulding processes.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 24, 2009Publication date: July 8, 2010Applicant: LIFE SAFETY DISTRIBUTION AGInventors: Tony Cowburn, Stuart Cutler, Martin Jonathan Kelly
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Publication number: 20100159084Abstract: An electrochemical sensor for organic molecules such as ethylene includes an electrochemical cell, gas sample inlet means and means for detecting current produced by the oxidation of the organic molecule at the anode of the cell. The sensor is capable of sensing multiple organic molecules in some embodiments. A voltage is applied to the anode of the cell to provide energy to drive the oxidation reaction and produce a corresponding current. The sensor of the invention can be made as a small, hand-held unit that is capable of real-time detection of various organic species.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 13, 2009Publication date: June 24, 2010Inventors: Alireza Shekarriz, W. Lloyd Allen, Daniel James Haulkner, Christopher M. Ward, Debra M. Gilbuena
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Publication number: 20100155239Abstract: A CO2-sensitive planar sensing device is disclosed, which has an electrode with an ion-selective layer, an electrolyte layer and an outer layer. The electrolyte layer has osmotically active species in an amount of 0.8-6.0 milliosmol per m2 of electrolyte layer area, and has a hydrophilic osmolarity increasing component which does not add bicarbonate ions or chloride ions to the electrolyte layer.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 22, 2009Publication date: June 24, 2010Inventors: Poul Ravn Sørensen, Dorthe Krabbe Munck
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Publication number: 20100160755Abstract: Disclosed herein is an electrochemical sensor for measuring an analyte in a subject. More particularly, sensors comprising a polyelectrolyte layer at least partially covering the electroactive surface of an electrode are disclosed.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 7, 2009Publication date: June 24, 2010Applicant: Edwards Lifesciences CorporationInventors: Henry W. Oviatt, James R. Petisce
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Publication number: 20100140088Abstract: Disclosed herein is a reference electrode having a self-calibration function, which is used in electrochemical measurement and whose measurement accuracy can be maintained for a long period of time. Also disclosed is an apparatus for automatically correcting electrochemical potential using the reference electrode. The apparatus comprises: a reference electrode, comprising an external electrode body having an electrolyte membrane at one end thereof and an electrolyte solution filled therein, and at least two electrically isolated internal electrodes which are disposed in the external electrode body in such a manner that they are immersed in the electrolyte solution; and a reference potential calibrator for applying AC voltage to the internal electrodes to measure the electrical conductivity of the electrolyte solution of the electrolyte solution and output a correction signal about the change in the reference potential of the reference electrode.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 8, 2008Publication date: June 10, 2010Inventors: Jei-Won YEON, In-Kyu Choi, Won-Ho Kim, Kyuseok Song
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Publication number: 20100133103Abstract: A method for monitoring the physical conditions of products, such as food-stuff and similar, wherein a plurality of detectors associated to nodes (25; 31) is arranged close to the food-stuff. A detector (26; 34) continuously measures at least one physical condition of a product. The nodes (25; 31) establish continuously and periodically a wire-less contact with the central unit (12), said nodes and said central unit being part of a local installation, and also transfer measured data from the detectors (26; 34) to the central unit (12). The central unit (12) continuously stores the received measured data and continuously and periodically establishes a wireless contact with a server (11) connected to the Internet for the transfer of stored measured data. Information related to the transferred measured data is made available on the server (11) to be reviewed through the Internet.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 4, 2005Publication date: June 3, 2010Applicant: COOLGUARD ABInventors: Lars Ericsson, Berit Stjernfeld
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Publication number: 20100133104Abstract: A diagnostic device is provided that includes a plurality of retainment regions interconnected through at least one fluid processing passageway or separated by at least one barrier. A fluid flow modulator can be provided in the fluid processing passageway if a fluid processing passageway is provided. The barrier and/or fluid flow modulator can comprise a polysaccharide, a derivative of a polysaccharide, or a combination thereof. For example, the barrier can comprise a chitosan material.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 30, 2009Publication date: June 3, 2010Applicant: LIFE TECHNOLOGIES CORPORATIONInventors: Debjyoti Banerjee, Umberto Ulmanella, Konrad Faulstich, Aldrich N. K. Lau, Jun Xie
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Publication number: 20100126858Abstract: There is disclosed means for quickly solving instability of sensor sensitivity performances found in an initial stage and stabilizing the sensor sensitivity performances, when immersing a chemical sensor kept under a dry state in a buffer solution used as a storage liquid and applying a measurement bias between a working electrode and a reference electrode to make first use of the chemical sensor for measurement in which the chemical sensor is used. To make the first use of the chemical sensor, after immersing the chemical sensor kept under a dry state in the buffer solution used as the storage liquid, a first initial treatment bias having the same direction as that of the measurement bias and possessing an absolute value larger than that of the measurement bias is applied between the working electrode and the reference electrode for a first initial treatment time.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 18, 2009Publication date: May 27, 2010Applicant: TANITA CORPORATIONInventors: Soichi SAITO, Narushi ITO
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Publication number: 20100126856Abstract: An analyte test instrument that has a test strip circuitry that can be configured using information provided by a calibration strip to perform assays with test strips having two electrodes and test strips having three electrodes. The analyte test instrument of this invention comprises: (a) a test port for receiving a test strip; (b) a microprocessor for executing instructions downloaded into the analyte test instrument; (c) a test strip circuit capable of having a plurality of configurations, the configurations being set by the microprocessor, whereby an assay can be performed using the test strip.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 23, 2009Publication date: May 27, 2010Inventors: Yi Wang, Shridhara Alva Karinka, Gurdial Sanghera
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Publication number: 20100122905Abstract: A sensing probe intended to measure the content of an oxygen reducible substance in a fluid, includes: a probe body containing an interface and processing circuit, a dry sensing head including an amperometric sensor intended to measure the content of the oxygen reducible substance. The sensing head is removable. The sensing head and the probe body include respectively coupling elements cooperating with each other and able to be separated, and the sensing probe furthermore includes connecting elements designed to connect the removable sensing head to the interface and processing circuit of the probe body.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 20, 2008Publication date: May 20, 2010Applicant: SILSENS SAInventors: Yves DE COULON, Carine BERIET HERRERA
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Patent number: 7716965Abstract: An electrochemical suspended element-based sensor system includes a solution cell for holding an electrolyte comprising solution including at least one electrochemically reducible or oxidizable species. A working electrode (WE), reference electrode (RE) and a counter electrode (CE) are disposed in the solution. The CE includes an asymmetric suspended element, wherein one side of the suspended element includes a metal or a highly doped semiconductor surface. The suspended element bends when current associated with reduction or oxidation of the electrochemically reducible or oxidizable species at the WE passes through the suspended element. At least one measurement system measures the bending of the suspended element or a parameter which is a function of the bending.Type: GrantFiled: October 27, 2006Date of Patent: May 18, 2010Assignee: UT-Battelle, LLCInventors: Thomas G. Thundat, Gilbert M. Brown
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Patent number: 7704357Abstract: A potentiometric sensor, especially a pH-sensor or redox-sensor, includes: an elementary sensor for registering a potentiometric parameter, especially a pH-value or a redox potential; and an interface for issuing a potentiometric-parameter-dependent signal to a superordinated unit, especially a transmitter; wherein the potentiometric sensor of the invention has a digital data memory, which is permanently connected with elementary sensor.Type: GrantFiled: May 15, 2003Date of Patent: April 27, 2010Assignee: Endress + Hauser Conducta Gesellschaft fur Mess- und Regeltechnik MBh + Co. KGInventors: Torsten Pechstein, Detlev Wittmer, Hermann Straub, Dirk Steinmueller
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Patent number: 7699973Abstract: The present the invention provides methods, devices and systems for rapidly measuring analytes within a biological sample.Type: GrantFiled: June 30, 2006Date of Patent: April 20, 2010Assignee: Abbott Diabetes Care Inc.Inventor: Simon Tonks
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Publication number: 20100089775Abstract: An electrochemical test strip, an electrochemical test system, and a measurement method using the same are provided. The electrochemical test strip includes an insulating substrate, an electrode system formed on the insulating substrate, and an insulating layer formed on the electrode system. The electrode system includes a set of measurement electrodes, a set of identifying electrodes, and a resistive path having a predetermined resistance value. The set of identifying electrodes is made of metal material, and the resistive path is made of non-metal material. The set of measurement electrodes includes a reference electrode and a working electrode insulated from each other, and the set of identifying electrodes includes a first identifying electrode and a second identifying electrode connected with each other through the resistive path.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 18, 2009Publication date: April 15, 2010Applicant: Apex Biotechnology Corp.Inventors: Guan-Ting CHEN, Yueh-Hui Lin, Kai-Tsung Teng, Sz-Hau Chen, Thomas Y. S. Shen
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Patent number: 7695600Abstract: A test system for measuring analyte concentration in a fluid sample includes: (i) a capillary-fill biosensor (20) having a working electrode (24), a reference electrode (22) and a separate counter electrode (23), arranged such that a fluid sample which flows evenly along the capillary flow path will substantially completely cover the reference electrode (22) before the fluid sample makes contact with any part of the counter electrode (23); and (ii) a test meter (42) for receiving the biosensor (20), the meter (42) including: first signal circuitry (31) for producing a first signal when an electrical circuit is detected between the reference electrode (22) and the working electrode (24); second signal circuitry (33) for producing a second signal when an electrical circuit is detected between the counter electrode (23) and at least one of the reference electrode (22) and the working electrode (24); a timer (35) for determining the time interval between production of said first signal and said second signal;Type: GrantFiled: June 1, 2006Date of Patent: April 13, 2010Assignee: Hypoguard LimitedInventors: Wah On Ho, John J. Rippeth, Paul Chambers
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Patent number: 7686930Abstract: A compact multiparameter instrument for electrochemical measurements is described. The instrument facilitates rapid engagement and disengagement of a variety of sensor elements in such a manner as to prevent accidental mismatch of sensor elements and sensor input ports. Positive identification of specific sensors is ensured by including color marking or other indicia on the sensor connectors that are matched to corresponding markings on the meter body. Measurements of specific parameters such as temperature may readily be shared among all other sensors connected to the instrument. A method of rapidly reconfiguring the instrument to provide extended or different capabilities is described.Type: GrantFiled: February 25, 2005Date of Patent: March 30, 2010Assignee: Thermo Orion, Inc.Inventors: Paul C. Sydlowski, Ronald M. Geis, Loren Edward Somes, Jr.
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Publication number: 20100072079Abstract: The invention relates to a method for detecting the presence of boron in water comprising the production of a conductive buffer solution comprising water and at least one boron complexing agent, the introduction into an electrochemical cell of said solution in the presence of at least one work electrode (7), and the measurement of an anodic peak of the boron complex and complexing agent by voltammetry, said method being characterized in that the work electrode (7) is a solid microelectrode, and in that the measurement is carried out continuously with respect to the flow of water. The invention also relates to a device (10) for the implementation of such a method.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 11, 2009Publication date: March 25, 2010Applicant: Millipore CorporationInventors: Celine Le Ninivin, Aristotelis Dimitrakopoulos, Pascal Rajagopalan, Antony Vanheghe
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Patent number: 7678249Abstract: An instrument is provided for pharmacologic measurement capable of detecting a very small and short time change in electric signal caused by a pharmacologic action of a biologic specimen with quickness and a high sensitivity by steeply decreasing an external disturbance component mixed into the system while dropping/exchange of medicinal solutions is conducted in a batch mode.Type: GrantFiled: August 30, 2005Date of Patent: March 16, 2010Assignee: Panasonic CorporationInventors: Nobuhiko Ozaki, Hiroaki Oka
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Publication number: 20100032316Abstract: A sensor system including devices and methods for determining the concentration of an analyte in a sample is described. Input signals including amperometric and voltammetric duty cycles of excitations and relaxations may provide a shorter analysis time and/or improve the accuracy and/or precision of the analysis. The disclosed system may reduce analysis errors, thus improving measurement performance, by adjusting the potential and/or scan rate in response to output currents obtained from voltammetric scans. The disclosed system also may determine the concentration of more than one ionizable species in the sample by adjusting the potential and/or scan rate in response to output currents obtained from voltammetric scans. The multiple, determined concentrations may be used to determine the concentration of multiple analytes or to correct the concentration determined for an analyte, thus improving the measurement performance of the system.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 10, 2009Publication date: February 11, 2010Applicant: BAYER HEALTHCARE LLCInventor: Huan-Ping WU
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Patent number: 7655121Abstract: An interface device for a gas sensor includes a detection resistor having first and second ends to generate voltages by a current output of the gas sensor, a differential amplifier having first and second input terminals to receive the voltages of the first and second resistor ends and an output terminal to output a voltage according to a difference between the voltages of the first and second resistor ends, a first switching element to transmit the voltage of the first resistor end to the first input terminal of the differential amplifier in a transmission state and interrupt transmission of the voltage of the first resistor end to the first input terminal of the differential amplifier in an interruption state and a second switching element turned on to establish continuity between the first and second input terminals of the differential amplifier when the first switching element is in the interruption state.Type: GrantFiled: May 11, 2007Date of Patent: February 2, 2010Assignee: NGK Spark Plug Co., Ltd.Inventors: Hiroshi Inagaki, Tomonori Uemura, Norikazu Ieda
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Publication number: 20100000863Abstract: A particulate matter detection device 100 includes a first electrode 1 whose one surface is covered with an inter-electrode dielectric material 4; a second electrode 2 disposed on the side of the one surface of the first electrode 1, to perform the discharge of electricity by a voltage applied between the first electrode 1 and the second electrode; and a pair of measurement electrodes 5, 15 disposed on the surface of the inter-electrode dielectric material 4 so as to face each other; characteristic measurement means 3 for measuring electric characteristics between the pair of measurement electrodes 5 and 15; and particulate matter amount calculation means 13 for obtaining the amount of the particulate matter 11 collected by the surface of the inter-electrode dielectric material 4, based on the change amount of the electric characteristics.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 29, 2009Publication date: January 7, 2010Applicants: NGK Insulators, Ltd., Honda Motor Co., Ltd.Inventors: Atsuo Kondo, Takeshi Sakuma, Takashi Egami, Tatsuya Okayama, Masanobu Miki, Keizo Iwama
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Publication number: 20100000882Abstract: Among other things, methods and systems are described for detecting chemicals including explosive materials. For example, a system for detecting materials includes a sample gathering unit designed to obtain a portion of a target material to be tested. In addition, the system includes a sample holding unit that has a first end designed to attach to the sample gathering unit and form a housing that retains at least the obtained portion of the target material. Further, a reagent holding unit is included and designed to attach to a second end of the sample holding unit. The reagent holding unit is designed to introduce the reagent into the formed housing to mix with the obtained target material and start a chemical reaction.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 14, 2007Publication date: January 7, 2010Inventors: Joseph Wang, Avi Cagan
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Patent number: 7641777Abstract: A connector for establishing electrical connection between a testing device and a test strip with a biological fluid thereon includes a contact pad on the test strip, and one or more contact wires in the testing device. When the strip is inserted into the testing device, the end of the strip engages with a bight in the contact wire, pushing the contact wire in a direction normal to the direction of insertion. The movement of the contact wire forces a second portion of the wire against a part of the housing, thereby deforming the wire and moving another portion of the wire toward the contact pad. Some embodiments of the invention include 4, 6, 8, 15, or more contacts, which may be situated so as to receive the end of the test strip substantially simultaneously, or may be staggered in 2, 3, or more rows to spread out the resistance to movement presented.Type: GrantFiled: September 7, 2004Date of Patent: January 5, 2010Assignee: Roche Diagnostics Operations, Inc.Inventors: Abner D. Joseph, Jack Schlanser
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Publication number: 20090321280Abstract: A surface-contact sensor includes a housing defining an opening, an ion-permeable membrane at the opening, a counterelectrode within the housing, and a reference electrode within the housing that is spaced apart from the current-collector. A current-collector pad includes a grommet support having a base and a lumen defining an opening. An ion-permeable membrane spans at least a portion of the opening of the grommet. The ion-permeable membrane is held in place by a gasket surrounding the lumen. A current collector, at least in one embodiment, is proximate to a portion of the ion-permeable membrane that spans the opening.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 26, 2009Publication date: December 31, 2009Inventor: Michael C. Kimble
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Publication number: 20090308741Abstract: A sensor arrangement for detecting particles potentially contained in an analyte is disclosed. The arrangement includes a substrate; at least one sensor electrode which is arranged on and/or in the substrate and on which scavenger molecules, which hybridize with particles that are potentially contained in an analyte and are to be detected, are immobilized, electrically charged particles generated by hybridization being detectable on the at least one sensor electrode; and at least one diffusion detection electrode which is arranged in a surrounding region of the at least one sensor electrode and is embodied in such a way that it detects electrically charged particles that are generated by hybridization and can be diffused away by the at least one sensor electrode.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 24, 2005Publication date: December 17, 2009Inventors: Alexander Frey, Franz Hofmann
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Publication number: 20090301901Abstract: An exemplary embodiment of the invention may include a method for electrochemically monitoring the mobility of particles in a fluid in response to an external field, the method may include monitoring an electrical characteristic of the fluid in an electrochemical cell, the fluid comprising particles that can be moved under the influence of an externally applied field; observing changes in the electrical characteristic caused by particle movement induced by the external field; and inferring a change in the physical state of the fluid from a change in the magnitude of the electrical characteristic observed.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 13, 2007Publication date: December 10, 2009Applicant: UNIVERSAL BIOSENSORS PTY LTD.Inventors: Peter Michael Newman, Ronald Christopher Chatelier
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Publication number: 20090294301Abstract: The present application provides Ag/AgCl based reference electrodes having an extended lifetime that are suitable for use in long term amperometric sensors. Electrochemical sensors equipped with reference electrodes described herein demonstrate considerable stability and extended lifetime in a variety of conditions.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 2, 2008Publication date: December 3, 2009Inventors: BENJAMIN J. FELDMAN, ZENGHE LIU, TIANMEI OUYANG
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Publication number: 20090283423Abstract: A method of determining chemical oxygen demand in water samples containing chloride ions above 0.5 mM concentration in which the samples are diluted and a known quantity of an organic substance is added to the diluted sample which is the subjected to an assay by a photoelectrochemical method using a titanium dioxide nanoparticulate semiconductor electrode and measuring the photo current produced until a stable value is reached and then using the difference between the initial and stable photocurrents as a measure of the chemical oxygen demand. An alternative method involves determining chemical oxygen demand in water samples containing chloride ions by measuring the chlorine content and measuring chemical oxygen demand by a photoelectrochemical method using a titanium dioxide nanoparticulate semiconductor electrode and adjusting the chemical oxygen demand measurement using the chlorine measurement.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 10, 2006Publication date: November 19, 2009Applicant: Aqua Diagnostic Pty LtdInventors: Huijun Zhao, Shanqing Zhang
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Patent number: 7615140Abstract: A potentiometric sensor for measuring a potentiometric variable of a medium comprises an ISFET whose gate region exhibits an ion-sensitive surface which can be exposed to the medium and which outputs an output signal that depends on the concentration of the ions at the ion-sensitive surface of the gate region. An evaluation circuit with a measuring input to which the output signal of the ISFET is applied is included, whereby the evaluation circuit is designed to output a measured value for the potentiometric variable, depending on the output signal. Also included is a measuring resistor which is arranged between the output of the ISFET and the input of the evaluation circuit, a monitoring circuit to determine the voltage drop over the measuring resistor, and a bridge section that is parallel to the measuring resistor to bridge the measuring resistor whereby the bridge section exhibits a switch with which the bridge section can be opened or closed.Type: GrantFiled: December 22, 2006Date of Patent: November 10, 2009Assignee: Endress + Hauser Conducta Gesellschaft fur Mess- und Regeltechnik mbH + Co. KGInventors: Torsten Pechstein, Lars Kirsten
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Patent number: 7615139Abstract: An electrochemical sensor with at least one measuring electrode (3), at least one auxiliary electrode (7) and at least one reference electrode (5), wherein a protective electrode (6), which ensures at the reference electrode (5) the at least partial shielding of the reference electrode (5) against substances that would lead to a change in the reference potential when reaching the reference electrode (5), is arranged in the vicinity of the reference electrode (5). A highly stable reference potential can be obtained with the present invention.Type: GrantFiled: November 8, 2005Date of Patent: November 10, 2009Assignee: Dräger Safety AG & Co. KGaAInventors: Herbert Kiesele, Frank Mett, Sabrina Sommer
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Publication number: 20090272656Abstract: A method for the determination of the carbon dioxide content of an exhaled gas stream is provided, the method comprising measuring the water vapour content of the exhaled gas stream, and determining the concentration of carbon dioxide in the exhaled gas stream from the measured water vapour content. A particular method comprises causing the gas stream to impinge on a sensing element comprising a working electrode and a counter electrode; applying an electric potential across the working electrode and counter electrode; measuring the current flowing between the working electrode and counter electrode as a result of the applied potential; and determining from the measured current flow an indication of the concentration of the water vapour in the gas stream. A sensor is also described.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 17, 2007Publication date: November 5, 2009Inventors: Mark Varney, Michael Garrett, Deryk Williams
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Patent number: 7608176Abstract: The present invention relates a gas concentration detecting apparatus capable of appropriately making a decision on activation of each of a pump cell, a monitor cell and a sensor cell of its gas concentration sensor. In the apparatus, a control circuit outputs an oxygen concentration value on the basis of a current flowing when a voltage is applied to the pump cell and outputs an NOx concentration value on the basis of a current flowing at the voltage application to the sensor cell. Moreover, the control circuit separately makes a decision on activation of the pump cell and a decision on activation of the sensor cell in the middle of the activation of the sensor. Still moreover, the control circuit makes the decision on the activation of the sensor cell after the activation of the pump cell reaches completion.Type: GrantFiled: October 9, 2003Date of Patent: October 27, 2009Assignee: DENSO CorporationInventor: Mitsunobu Niwa
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Patent number: 7604723Abstract: The invention relates to a measuring device having a penetrating electrode. Said elongated electrode of the measuring device is movably mounted in axial direction thereof. In case of a load or a shock, it can absorb said load to a given degree in the housing of said measuring device. Said shock-absorbing characteristic makes it possible to largely prevent breaking of the first electrode that is preferably configured in the form of a glass electrode. The invention also relates to a measuring device, to a method for the production and the application of said measuring device.Type: GrantFiled: June 25, 2003Date of Patent: October 20, 2009Assignee: Testo AGInventor: Andreas Derr
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Publication number: 20090255829Abstract: A method includes identifying first data associated with cyclic voltammetry measurements of a material being examined. The cyclic voltammetry measurements include applying a varying first voltage to the material and measuring a first current. The method also includes identifying second data associated with impedance measurements. The impedance measurements include applying a second voltage to the material and measuring a second current. The second data includes a scaling factor. The method further includes adjusting at least part of the first data using the scaling factor and identifying a composition of the material using the adjusted first data. The first data could include a current versus voltage curve that associates values of the first current to values of a sweep voltage. The first data could be adjusted by normalizing the curve using the scaling factor, and the normalized curve could be used to generate a current derivative curve.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 14, 2008Publication date: October 15, 2009Applicant: Honeywell International Inc.Inventors: Sebastien Tixier, Dan Bizzotto
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Publication number: 20090250350Abstract: A device for detecting an anodic oxide film during an anodic oxidation treatment includes a container receiving an electrolyte therein, an aluminum sheet immersed in the electrolyte, a power source supplying a current to the aluminum sheet to form an anodic oxide film on the aluminum sheet, a data acquisition unit measuring a potential of the anodic oxide film at a time, a data processor unit calculating a differential value of the potential, and a display unit displaying a differential curve generated according to the differential values of the potentials at different times. The quality of the anodic oxide film can be judged by reading the shape of the differential curve.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 27, 2008Publication date: October 8, 2009Applicant: FOXCONN TECHNOLOGY CO., LTD.Inventors: PAI-SHENG WEI, CHIA-SHOU CHANG