Abstract: A mechanical fluid meter, for liquid or gas, includes an electronic device (E) that has means for metering, and generally also displaying, consumption, said fluid meter including: at least one fluid temperature sensor (3) near the meter and at least one ambient temperature sensor (4) where the meter is installed; a connection means between the temperature sensors (3, 4) and the electronic device (E); and analysis means (5) for establishing the temperature difference (??) between the fluid temperature and the ambient temperature and for taking into account the fluid flow rate value supplied by the meter, said analysis means being programmed so as to display and/or transmit information indicating a meter blockage when the temperature difference (??) is higher than a predetermined limit and the flow rate value supplied by the meter is zero.
Abstract: In accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure, an electronic module may comprise a sensor configured to detect a dispensing action, a processor configured to record a dispense indicator when the sensor detects a dispensing action and read a user identifier from a user identifier memory configured to interchangeably operate in conjunction with a plurality of sanitizer dispensers, and a transceiver configured to transmit the user identifier to a network and transmit the dispense indicator to the network.
Abstract: There is provided a water quality monitoring apparatus including: an air quality analyzing unit detecting, using an ion mobility sensor, air quality in a space that is at least partially enclosed by a partition wall and a boundary surface with water whose water quality is to be monitored; and an alarm unit that outputs a signal indicating an abnormality if an air quality pattern obtained by the air quality analyzing unit is outside a tolerated range for air quality patterns of air that contacts the water to be monitored. Such water quality monitoring apparatus is capable of monitoring the water quality of drinking water inside a water tank or the like indirectly but precisely by detecting the quality of the air contacting the water using an ion mobility sensor.
Abstract: a waterproofing device for electronic equipment is provided, which includes: sensing unit, arranged in a shell of the electronic equipment and configured to output corresponding sensing signal when sensing that water permeates into the electronic equipment; and a powering-off unit, configured to generate a powering-off signal to power off the electronic equipment according to the sensing signal. In the invention, after water is sensed to permeate in the electronic equipment, power of a circuit board of the electronic equipment is immediately and automatically cut off, so that the problem of high short-circuiting rate of the circuit board after water permeates into the electronic equipment is solved, and an effect of avoiding loss is further achieved to a great extent.
Abstract: Disclosed are systems, devices, and methods, including a system that includes a sensor configured to monitor at least one parameter associated with operation of the fluid delivery device, and a controller. The controller is configured to activate a motor of the fluid delivery device, detect an occurrence of a problem in fluid delivery based on one or more first sensor signals generated by the sensor when the motor is activated in a first direction, the one or more first sensor signals representative of the at least one parameter monitored in the first direction, and determine a type of the detected problem based on one or more second sensor signals generated by the sensor when the motor is activated in a second direction substantially opposite the first direction, the one or more second sensor signals representative of the at least one parameter monitored in the second direction.
Abstract: A water alarm is disclosed. The water alarm may include a housing, circuit board, power source, sound generator, and a plurality of conductors. The housing may define an interior and an exterior and comprise a bottom portion and a top portion. The circuit board may be contained within the interior of the housing. The power source may be electrically connected to deliver electrical power to the circuit board. The sound generator and plurality of conductors may be electrically connected to the circuit board. Each conductor of the plurality of conductors may be electrically conductive. Each may also be and insert molded within the bottom portion to extend from the interior to the exterior.
Type:
Grant
Filed:
May 1, 2012
Date of Patent:
March 3, 2015
Assignee:
Gizmode, LLC
Inventors:
Michael J. Brooking, Christopher W. Barney
Abstract: An infrastructure monitoring system and method include multiple communications devices. At least one communications device is coupled to an element of the infrastructure.
Type:
Grant
Filed:
May 5, 2011
Date of Patent:
January 13, 2015
Inventors:
Gregory E. Hyland, Robert Paul Keefe, Marietta Edmunds Zakas, Clayton Robert Barker, III
Abstract: Methods and systems for facilitating initiation of resupply orders for consumable commodities include using a stand-alone electronic or audio-generating device incorporated into retail product packaging. The stand-alone device is equipped with a rudimentary processor or logic circuit, a memory, and a wireless transmitter. A simple user interface/activation device such as a push button or membrane switch is coupled to the logic circuit or processor. The stand-alone device is incorporated into or with product packaging, and may be configured with a resupply code at or after a point of sale. A user may activate the user interface of the device when the product needs resupplying, causing the resupply code to be transmitted to an access point or terminal that initiates a reorder sequence for the product.
Abstract: The present invention relates to a gas-detecting unit for detection of CO2 and an alarming unit, said gas-detecting unit and said alarming unit being integrated to comprise one device, and wherein said device is adapted to withstand harsh environments and cleaning of the device.
Abstract: The present invention relates to devices and methods for tracking movement in a marine environment. At least one tracking device that is adapted to be deployed on a surface of the water, wherein the tracking device is capable of moving along the same trajectory of a desired object. Data from the tracking devices are received by at least one satellite, transmitted to a database, and used to determine the forecasted trajectory of the desired object. All data collected from deployed tracking devices may be integrated into a spatial data repository for analysis and reporting using GIS and associated information technologies, thereby allowing for more accurate decision-making and asset deployment during a fluid spill or similar marine contamination event. The present invention also allows for the collection and modeling of accurate localized sea current data, which may assist with marine and coastal engineering works such as shoreline protection and port dredging.
Abstract: A drinking reminder method is implemented by an electronic apparatus. The apparatus includes a scale pan, a weight sensor, an analog/digital (A/D) converter, a display screen and a keypad. The keypad comprising a power key, a reset key and a switching key. The weight sensor senses an analog pressure signal when a cup filled with water is placed on the scale pan, and the A/D converter converts the analog pressure signal to a digital weight signal. A total weight of the cup filled with water is measured according to the digital weight signal, and a cumulative water intake volume and a water shortage volume of a user. The display screen displays the cumulative water intake volume and the water shortage volume on to remind the user to drink water.
Abstract: The invention relates to a drainage circuit (4) for a flow of a liquid (5), the circuit being fitted with a monitoring appliance (13) for monitoring an excess flow rate of the liquid (5). The monitoring appliance (13) comprises a monitoring duct (14) interposed between an upstream duct (7) for collecting the liquid (5) and a downstream duct (9) for discharging the liquid (5). The monitoring duct (14) has retaining means (15) for retaining part of the liquid (5) inside a chamber (16) arranged to receive a spillway (22) of the captured liquid (19) in a reserve (20) fitted with indicator means (23) with a visual scale for providing warning information relating to the quantity of liquid (24) contained in the reserve (20).
Abstract: A defecation detection apparatus including: a feces/urine receiving member that is placed to face the body of a wearer and that receives discharged feces and urine; a urine suction device that is detachably attached to the feces/urine receiving member and that can sucks urine discharged in the feces/urine receiving member; a temperature sensor that is placed at a defecation position where discharged feces are received in the feces/urine receiving member; and a control section that detects the presence of discharged feces based on a signal remaining after removing a signal that is output from the temperature sensor within a predetermined time after an operation of the urine suction device from a signal that is output from the temperature sensor.
Abstract: A capacitor having air dielectric between its plates may be used to detect the presence of smoke and other contaminants in the dielectric air passing over the plates of the capacitor. Smoke from typical fires is mainly composed of unburned carbon that has diffused in the surrounding air and rises with the heat of the fire. The permittivity of the carbon particles is about 10 to 15 times the permittivity of clean air. The addition of the carbon particles into the air creates a change in the permittivity thereof that is large enough to measure by measuring a change in capacitance of the capacitor having the air dielectric through which the air laden carbon particles pass through.
Type:
Grant
Filed:
August 1, 2012
Date of Patent:
November 11, 2014
Assignee:
Microchip Technology Incorporated
Inventors:
Benjamin T. Cooke, Joseph Julicher, Keith Curtis
Abstract: A cost effective manometer is realized for accurately measuring back pressure in all types of vents and ducts. Common back pressure can be caused by restrictions, such as lint or soot buildup. The manometer consists of a main body having two reservoirs for storage of measuring fluid. The first reservoir contains measuring fluid during transit eliminating the need for end user to manually fill manometer prior to first use. Measuring fluid is transferred to second main reservoir prior to initial use. The second reservoir contains an adjustable bladder or plunger for obtaining a zero reading prior to measurement. The manometer can be used on all types of vents and ducts where positive or negative pressure exists. The manometer can be used for measuring positive or negative pressures as well as differential pressures.
Abstract: A system for surveillance of a pool containing a liquid such as water-comprises at least one first element comprising at least one submersible robot provided with standalone propulsion capabilities for propelling the robot in the pool, onboard of which robot is installed at least one sensor capable of producing at least one measurement of a quantity representative of at least one disturbance of the pool relative to a reference state, the first element being furthermore provided with communication capabilities for communicating, in the submerged position, with at least one second element, the system being configured to process, in processing means, the output of the at least one sensor and to trigger at least one action.
Abstract: Multiple-contact switches are disclosed. An example multiple-contact switch disclosed herein includes a double throw switch having a common terminal, a first throw terminal, and a second throw terminal, the common terminal being coupled to a reference; a first throw circuit coupled to the first throw terminal, the first throw circuit to output an open signal to a process control device when the common terminal is substantially in contact with one of the first throw terminal or the second throw terminal; and a second throw circuit coupled to the second throw terminal, the second throw circuit to cause the first throw circuit to output a close signal to the process control device when the common terminal is substantially in contact with the other one of the first throw terminal or the second throw contact terminal, wherein at least one of the open signal or the close signal corresponds to the reference.
Type:
Grant
Filed:
October 20, 2011
Date of Patent:
September 30, 2014
Assignee:
Fisher Controls International, LLC
Inventors:
Thomas Andrew Pesek, Brian Joseph Burlage, Carter Bill Cartwright, Clyde T. Eisenbeis
Abstract: A plug-in module for a liquid- or gas-sensor comprised of a sensor module (SM) and a sensor module head (SMH), which can be releasably connected together, and which, when connected, enable data and energy transfer via a galvanically decoupled transfer section, wherein the sensor module head (SMH) includes an energy supply unit for operating the sensor module head (SMH) and the sensor module (SM), as well as a data memory (MEM), in order to store sensor data received from the sensor module (SM).
Type:
Grant
Filed:
September 20, 2006
Date of Patent:
September 30, 2014
Assignee:
Endress + Hauser Conducta Gesellschaft für Mess- und Regeltechnik mbH + Co. KG
Abstract: A blood-donation system and methods of usage are disclosed. The system includes a blood-donating chair configured to interoperate with various blood-processing apparatuses. The system further combines into a self-contained system all devices, communications pathways and power supplies for various powered devices employed during a blood-collecting session. The system may further interoperate with other blood-donation systems allowing for continuous monitoring of multiple blood-collecting sessions at a single user interface. According to another embodiment, in addition to interoperability, the system is further configured for upgradability, in which, various donor-station devices may be mounted and remounted.
Abstract: This disclosure relates to detecting fluid in medical tubing. In certain aspects, a method is performed by a data processing apparatus. The method includes controlling repetitive activation of the ultrasonic transmitter. The method also includes receiving a signal from the ultrasonic receiver during an activation of the ultrasonic transmitter. The method also includes determining that fluid is absent or present in a portion of the medical fluid tube based on a comparison between the signal and a threshold value.
Type:
Grant
Filed:
May 10, 2012
Date of Patent:
September 16, 2014
Assignee:
Fresenius Medical Care Holdings, Inc.
Inventors:
Nigel Wright, Samuel Ernest Magargi, III, Jeremy Thomas Harbaugh, Michael John Zang, Regis Joseph Winniewicz, Jr., Joseph Stephen Beri, Douglas Mark Zatezalo, Tom Monahan, Ronald Robert Fox
Abstract: One aspect of the invention is an apparatus including an alarm for alerting an operator to recharge a humidifier, wherein such alarm is generated other than through the use of a humidity sensor. In one embodiment the total work performed during heating and hydrating an insufflation gas is measured and an alarm generated when the total work performed exceeds a particular threshold. In another embodiment, a flow meter is used to measure the total flow of insufflation gas so that when the total flow of insufflation gas reaches a predetermined level an alarm is activated.
Abstract: A gas analyzer includes: a gas measuring portion which performs a measurement on a gas; a case which houses the gas measuring portion; a liquid separator which includes a reservoir for storing a liquid component separated from the gas; a holder portion which holds the liquid separator; and a rotation mechanism which mounts the holder portion to the case.
Abstract: A method for audibly detecting a fluid flow state change in a flow meter pipeline. The flow state change may be identified as an upset in the normal flow state. The upset may be corrected to improve the accuracy of the flow meter. A system includes acoustic sensors mounted in the flow meter pipeline, and a computer to collect audible data from the acoustic sensors and compare the audible data to a baseline to detect an upset in the normal fluid flow state.
Abstract: A method and apparatus for monitoring the quality of steam used in a process is disclosed. A pressure and temperature sensor is exposed to the steam on either side of an inline pressure drop device such as an orifice or pressure reducing valve. The measurements are transmitted to a controller that calculates the steam quality percentage or superheat value. An alarm is issued if the steam quality is beyond a predetermined tolerance.
Abstract: Methods and systems described herein include beverage immersates and methods of their use. Systems include: at least one beverage immersate, wherein the at least one beverage immersate includes at least one sensor configured to detect at least one analyte in a fluid within a personal use beverage container; and at least one signal transmitter configured to transmit a signal responsive to the at least one beverage immersate. Methods include: detecting one or more analyte in fluid within a personal use beverage container with at least one sensor integral to at least one beverage immersate; and communicating data from the at least one beverage immersate to at least one device external to the beverage immersate.
Type:
Grant
Filed:
August 28, 2009
Date of Patent:
August 19, 2014
Assignee:
The Invention Science Fund I, LLC
Inventors:
Leroy E. Hood, Edward K. Y. Jung, Elizabeth A. Sweeney, Clarence T. Tegreene, Lowell L. Wood, Jr.
Abstract: An exemplary embodiment of a refrigerant charge monitoring system includes first and second sensors. The first sensor is operable for sensing temperature of a liquid refrigerant line that is connected to, within, or extending from an outlet of a condenser. The second sensor is operable for sensing pressure of the liquid refrigerant line. A controller is configured to determine at least one target pressure value from the sensed temperature of the liquid refrigerant line. The controller is configured to determine if the level of refrigerant charge is at, above or below an acceptable level based on a comparison of the sensed pressure of the liquid refrigerant line to the at least one target pressure value.
Type:
Grant
Filed:
February 6, 2014
Date of Patent:
August 19, 2014
Assignee:
Emerson Electric Co.
Inventors:
Amr E. Gado, Thomas J. Fredricks, Thomas B. Lorenz, Edward B. Evans
Abstract: A chemical alert system for generating an alarm is described including a portable electronic device, preferably with telecommunication capabilities to allow for data and/or voice communication via private or public networks, and at least one chemical sensor integrated with the housing of the portable device and controlled by a chemical sensor processing unit, further comprising an alert discriminator receiving input based on measurements of the chemical sensor, performing a test on the input and based on an outcome of the test initiating the transfer of measurements of the chemical sensor to a remote processing facility.
Abstract: Embodiments of the present disclosure include a fuel dispensing apparatus for delivering fuel from a fuel source, and related components, systems, and methods. As fuel is delivered from the fuel source, fuel quality is monitored using one or more fuel quality sensor devices, which detect one or more corresponding fuel quality characteristics. In response to the detected fuel quality characteristics, a visual indication of fuel quality is provided at a visual indication device. The visual indication includes a unique combination of a color component and a frequency component, thereby allowing a user of the fuel dispensing apparatus to quickly determine fuel quality status as the fuel is delivered from the fuel source.
Abstract: A leak detection system having power and communication lines includes a leak sensing cable having sensor lines for sensing a leak, detection controllers connected to the sensor lines to detect a leak position signal, and a master controller receiving the detected leak position signal from the detection controllers, wherein the leak sensing cable includes power and communication lines that are wired to supply power to the detection controllers via the master controller and to transmit the leak position signal to the master controller from the detection controllers. According to this invention, the leak detection system has power and communication lines that are able to transmit the leak position signal between the detection controllers and the master controller while supplying power to the detection controllers and the master controller.
Abstract: Systems and methods for adjusting or providing instructions to spraying systems are provided. In an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, an apparatus to identify sensitive areas is provided. The apparatus comprising: a module to electronically receive sensitive area information, the sensitive area information related to one or more sensitive areas proximate to a first specified location; a module to electronically receive an identity of a first substance to be sprayed at the first specified location; and an alert mechanism to provide an indication of a first sensitive area proximate to the first specified location which is sensitive to the first substance.
Type:
Grant
Filed:
December 19, 2011
Date of Patent:
June 24, 2014
Assignee:
Dow AgroSciences, LLC.
Inventors:
David E. Hillger, Tammie J. Jones-Jefferson, Damon M. Palmer
Abstract: A dewatering system includes a selective calibrating sensor circuit configured to receive sensor readings from an electronic sensor, to determine if the electronic sensor is immersed in water, to allow a user to adjust a pump down time in the field, and to generate a control output signal accordingly. The selective calibrating sensor circuit periodically performs a self-calibration when the electronic sensor is not immersed in water to cancel the effect of potential contaminants deposited on the electronic sensor over its operating life. The selective calibrating sensor circuit inhibits calibration when the electronic sensor is immersed in water. In some applications with multiple electronic sensors, the selective calibrating sensor circuit disconnects from one of the electronic sensors before performing the self-calibration. In certain embodiments, a pump control circuit including the selective calibration sensor circuit can be configured to be mounted with a housing of the pump.
Abstract: An assembly includes a mount (10) and a sensor (30), in particular a rain/light sensor for a motor vehicle, the mount (10) including at least two abutments (12) for a clamping bracket (50), wherein at least one clamping bracket (50) is hinge-fitted to the sensor (30) at two bearing points, the clamping bracket (50) being adapted to swivel between a mounting position and a clamping position, in which it urges the sensor (30) against the mount (10) with a pretensioning force.
Abstract: A method for the estimation of oil viscosity in an internal combustion engine, the engine subjected to fuel post injections to activate Particulate Filter regeneration processes and to fuel hydrocarbons (HC) evaporation events affecting said oil viscosity. The method includes, but is not limited to determining if the particulate filter is subjected to a regeneration process and, in the affirmative case, calculating an oil viscosity decrease during said Particulate Filter regeneration process as a function of an oil dilution rate, and calculating an oil viscosity increase after said regeneration process as a function of an Hydrocarbon (HC) evaporation rate and of a time during which fuel Hydrocarbon evaporation takes place, where said evaporation time is determined as a function of a time spent in evaporating fuel Hydrocarbon from engine oil in a previous fuel hydrocarbons evaporation event.
Abstract: Air-in-line sensor systems and methods of using same are provided. The system includes an adapter (60) including first and second cylindrical portions defining a fluid flow channel, the first cylindrical portion comprising two adjacent wedge-shaped protrusions (68). Each wedge-shaped protrusion is infrared transmittive and defines an outer surface and an inner surface. The system further includes a tube and an infrared reflective sensor having an infrared light emitter (42,52) and an infrared light detector (44,54). The infrared light emitter and the infrared light detector are positioned at or near an adapter so that an infrared light can be transmitted to the adapter and at least a portion of the infrared light reflected off the adapter can be detected by the infrared light detector.
Type:
Application
Filed:
July 9, 2012
Publication date:
June 5, 2014
Applicant:
NESTEC S.A.
Inventors:
Adam Hartman, Paul Nguyen, David Charles Cummings
Abstract: An electronic device including a fan unit capable of setting an air blowing direction toward any of an interface plate side of a casing and a back plate side opposite to the interface plate; a power supply unit; a first housing portion capable of housing the power supply unit and provided within the casing to be close to the back plate; a second housing portion capable of housing the power supply unit and provided within the casing to be close to the interface plate; a detection portion that detects the air blowing direction of the fan unit and a position where the power supply unit is housed; and a warning portion that operates based on the detection portion to give a warning in a case where the air blowing direction of the fan unit is different from the side where the casing houses the power supply unit.
Abstract: Various technologies for monitoring operation of an air contaminant mitigation system, such as a vapor intrusion and/or radon gas mitigation system, are disclosed. For example, in one embodiment, a monitoring system includes an air contaminant mitigation system to exhaust vapors from a contaminated area to a designated area and a sensor module coupled to the air contaminant mitigation system to generate sensor signals indicative of a sensor condition of the air contaminant mitigation system. The system may also include a sensor controller to receive the sensor signals from the sensor module and generate sensor data indicative of the sensor signals. Additionally, the system may include a data server to receive the sensor data from the sensor controller, store the sensor data in a local database, and transmit information based on the sensor data to a remote computing device.
Abstract: A device for monitoring the condition of a fluid receptacle such as one that is gradually filling or emptying is disclosed. The receptacle is attached to a torque weighing device, coupled with a transducer that outputs a measurement signal representing the weight of the receptacle. An alert or alarm may be generated by a signaling device in response to the measurement signal.
Abstract: A fuel gauge system has a fuel gauge unit, a processing unit, display units, input units, and a GPS navigation system unit with means to connect to other connections and which, by audio and visual aids, informs and alerts an operator of a vehicle of the amount of fuel remaining and range and which allows the operator to manipulate and select and alter the levels, the volume and frequency intervals at which the alerts are sounded, emitted and displayed.
Abstract: The present invention provides a method of monitoring the position of a vehicle, vessel, rail car, barge, tanker truck that is loaded with bulk or hazardous material. A G.P.S unit is set to send a signal to a radio transmitter if the unit moves beyond a maximum permissible distance (for example, 50 feet or more). An oxygen sensor can be used to send a signal to a radio transmitter if oxygen levels fall below a selected minimum concentration. The radio transmitter can send the message to a tugboat crew, police department, fire department, company headquarters, civil defense office or other personnel if either of the unit has moved beyond the selected maximum travel distance or if oxygen levels fall below a minimum concentration. In addition to the radio transmission of oxygen concentration data and/or G.P.S position data, visible or audible alarms can be used such as strobe light, horn or the like.
Abstract: Sensor system with a sensor device having a through-flow cell for liquid, a detector device for measuring a property of the liquid in the through-flow cell and for generating an associated detector signal, a sensor control for analyzing the detector signal, wherein the sensor control detects a liquid transition between two different liquids in the through-flow cell when a change (per unit time) in the detector signal is greater is than a threshold value. In the case of such a liquid transition detection, the sensor control generates an alarm signal. Liquid transition detection is carried out by optical, temperature and/or conductivity sensors.
Type:
Application
Filed:
January 20, 2014
Publication date:
May 15, 2014
Applicant:
LELY PATENT N.V.
Inventors:
Frans Emo Diderik VAN HALSEMA, Pieter Gerlof DE GROOT, Hélèna Geralda Maria VIJVERBERG
Abstract: Disclosed is an improved method, system, and mechanism for a reader mechanism for a container-based approach for monitoring the history and/or quality of a consumable product. According to one approach, a monitoring mechanism is affixed to a wine container (e.g., a wine bottle) to monitor the handling/storage history and/or the drinkability of the wine inside the container. One or more environmental sensors are associated with the monitoring mechanism which tracks environmental conditions that may affect the wine. The tracked environmental conditions are analyzed to determine and/or indicate the drinkability of the wine. A reader mechanism is used to access and/or control the monitoring mechanism.
Type:
Grant
Filed:
August 2, 2011
Date of Patent:
May 6, 2014
Assignee:
Solbrae, Inc.
Inventors:
Richard Vaughn Brashears, Robert L. Brashears, Greg C. Buchner, David M. Cross, Eric M. Nequist
Abstract: A method is provided for determining remaining oil life prior to an oil change in an internal combustion engine that uses a body of oil. The method includes transferring the body of oil to the engine and determining a volume of the transferred body of oil. The method also includes determining quality of the transferred body of oil and determining the remaining oil life based on the determined quality and volume of the body of oil. The method additionally includes activating an oil change indicator when the remaining oil life reaches a predetermined level. A system for determining a number of engine revolutions permitted on a volume of oil is also disclosed.
Type:
Grant
Filed:
August 18, 2010
Date of Patent:
April 29, 2014
Assignee:
GM Global Technology Operations LLC
Inventors:
Eric W. Schneider, Matthew J. Snider, Robert M. Olree, Eric R. Johnson
Abstract: The present invention relates to an RFID-based intelligent storage cabinet and its management method, while utilizing the shielding effect enabled by each partitions for allowing any electromagnetic wave in one compartment to transmit only inside the confinement of such compartment without interfering another compartment. Each stock keeping unit (SKU) that is to be stored in the RFID-based intelligent storage cabinet is attached with at least one RFID tag, and different SKUs of different usages are sorted so as to be stored in different compartments. Moreover, each RFID reader can be designed to function according to the command of a control device for scanning the corresponding compartment in a periodic manner or non-periodic manner, by that any SKU that is stored in the corresponding compartment can be detected and identified as each RFID reader is also connected to an inventory database, a database of item list, or a memory database.
Abstract: An insulin pump and an infusion set adapter having a membrane which can be acted upon by a liquid flow path associated with the pump, wherein the pump comprises a sensor by which a change in shape or location of at least a portion of the membrane caused by a change in the liquid pressure in the flow path can be detected in a contact-free manner to identify an occlusion in the flow path.
Type:
Grant
Filed:
November 16, 2011
Date of Patent:
April 8, 2014
Assignee:
Roche Diagnostics International AG
Inventors:
Ulrich Haueter, David Bosshard, Ivan Heutschi, Thomas Rufer, Hanspeter Stoller
Abstract: An automated intravenous (IV) monitoring device is provided comprising a sensor for sensing drips passing through an IV drip chamber, a processing unit for calculating the total infused volume over a predetermined period of time, and a display for displaying the total infused volume. The IV monitoring device preferably also calculates and displays the flow rate of the drips. Additionally, an alarm can be activated if the flow rate drops below a predetermined value. A method of providing data pertaining to IV drips being infused into a body is also disclosed.
Abstract: The invention is directed to a system and process for estimating a core body temperature of a human subject. The system includes mount, a body, and a heat trap having a temperature sensor. The mount is operable to secure the device to a toilet or adjacent surface. The body houses a microprocessor. The heat trap is distal to the body and is shaped to receive a liquid stream and contain the thermal energy therein. The heat trap comprises a low thermally conductive material. The temperature sensor is in communication with the microprocessor. The temperature sensor is associated with the heat trap and disposed proximate a surface of said heat trap, wherein the liquid stream is directed across said temperature sensor. The system optionally incorporates a process and memory to store input of the temperature sensor and associate the input with a person, compare the input to historical records for a person, and determine a febrile condition for the person based on the input.
Abstract: An abnormal discharge alarm device is applied in a steam trap. The steam trap is installed in a pipeline of a steam system. The abnormal discharge alarm device includes a power generation component and a control circuit. The power generation component receives a fluid discharged from the steam trap and generates a self-generated electric power. The control circuit receives and detects the self-generated electric power to obtain a detection result. The control circuit sends an alarm signal when the detection result is greater than a predetermined threshold value. In addition, the abnormal discharge alarm device may further include a monitoring unit. The control circuit transmits the detection result to the monitoring unit. The monitoring unit obtains an updated threshold value according to accumulated detection results, and determines whether to send an alarm after comparing the updated threshold value with a real-time detection result.
Type:
Grant
Filed:
May 12, 2010
Date of Patent:
April 1, 2014
Assignee:
Industrial Technology Research Institute
Abstract: According to one embodiment, a hazard detector may include a housing having a back plate and a front casing coupled therewith to define an interior space within which various components are contained. The components may include an alarm device and a hazard sensor that is configured to detect a potentially hazardous condition to trigger the alarm device. A cover plate may be coupled with the housing and may face an occupant of a room in which the hazard detector is positioned. The cover plate may include a relatively large population of relatively small openings that are positioned, configured, and dimensioned so that internal components are substantially hidden from view of the occupant while air is allowed to substantially freely flow through the cover plate. A collective area of the openings may be at least 30% of the total area of the cover plate.
Type:
Application
Filed:
March 15, 2013
Publication date:
March 27, 2014
Inventors:
Tony Fadell, Adam Mittleman, Andrew Goldenson, Ben Filson, Fred Bould
Abstract: A method and apparatus are provided for monitoring a fuel delivery system to limit acidic corrosion. An exemplary monitoring system includes a controller, at least one monitor, and an output. The monitoring system may collect and analyze data indicative of a corrosive environment in the fuel delivery system. The monitoring system may also automatically warn an operator of the fueling station of the corrosive environment so that the operator can take preventative or corrective action.
Type:
Application
Filed:
August 13, 2013
Publication date:
February 27, 2014
Applicant:
Franklin Fueling Systems, Inc.
Inventors:
Lorraine Vander Wielen Sabo, William Nelson
Abstract: This invention provides a system and apparatus that is able to authenticate and prevent illegal manufacturing and unauthorized operation of disposable bioprocess components. This invention utilizes a ferro-electric random access memory chip (FRAM) chip to store error-correctable information on a RFID tag attached to the disposable bioprocess components, where the error-correctable information is written in sequence into the memory chip, so that the redundant information can remain in the chip when the RFID tag and disposable bioprocess component is gamma-sterilized. Also, this invention includes a method for authenticating the disposable bioprocess component that reduces liability in that a counterfeit poor quality disposable component is not used on the hardware so the user will not file an unjustified complaint.
Type:
Grant
Filed:
August 20, 2008
Date of Patent:
February 18, 2014
Assignee:
GE Healthcare Bio-Sciences Corp.
Inventors:
Manuel Nyffeler, Radislav A. Potyrailo, Vincent F. Pizzi, William G. Morris, Gerard J. Gach, Vijay Singh