Pressure Patents (Class 340/611)
  • Patent number: 12071904
    Abstract: A controller for a gas turbine engine comprises a fuel flow sensor interface for receiving input signals indicative of a fuel flow into a combustor, a power output sensor interface for receiving input signals indicative of power output of an electrical generator driven via the gas turbine engine, a bleed valve interface for providing an output signal to a bleed valve that controls bleed air to vent a compressor of the gas turbine engine, and memory having stored therein instructions for determining functionality of the bleed valve based on evaluating efficiency of the gas turbine engine when the output signal is issued. A method comprises sensing efficiency of a gas turbine engine in response to actuation of a compressor bleed valve, comparing the efficiency to baseline efficiency, and outputting indicia of a differential between the efficiency and the baseline efficiency as an indication of operability of the first bleed valve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 19, 2022
    Date of Patent: August 27, 2024
    Assignee: Mitsubishi Power Aero LLC
    Inventor: Ruurd Vanderleest
  • Patent number: 11957526
    Abstract: Methods, systems, and products monitor a person's regimen for medicinal and dietary restrictions. When the person's regimen requires a liquid medication or supplement, an oral instrument is commanded to dispense a dosage of fluid. The oral instrument stores a reservoir of the fluid. If the oral instrument is a spoon, for example, the spoon may automatically dispense cough syrup or other medicine. A toothbrush, likewise, may automatically dispense mouthwash. A sensor may confirm presence of the oral instrument in the person's mouth, thus ensuring the dosage of fluid is ingested.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 19, 2020
    Date of Patent: April 16, 2024
    Assignee: AT&T Intellectual Property I, L.P.
    Inventors: Kevin A. Li, Troy C. Meuninck, Robert Raymond Miller, II, James H. Pratt, Horst J. Schroeter, Behzad Shahraray
  • Patent number: 11839781
    Abstract: A wearable device for comprehensive bio-monitoring of physiologic metrics to determine metabolic, pulmonary and cardiac function and oxygen saturation measurements from breathing mask apparatuses. The device non-invasively monitors the physiologic profile of the subject, and is capable of detecting physiologic changes, predicting onset of symptoms, and alerting the wearer or another person or system. In some embodiments, the device comprises both a wearable sensor suite and a portable gas composition and flow analysis system. In preferred embodiments, it comprises a miniaturized non-invasive sensor suite for detecting physiologic changes to detect dangerous breathing or other health conditions. The acquired physiologic profile is used to generate alarms or warnings based on detectable physiological changes, to adjust gas delivery to the subject, alter mission profiles, or to transfer control of the craft or other duties away from a debilitated subject.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 15, 2021
    Date of Patent: December 12, 2023
    Assignee: Orbital Research Inc.
    Inventors: David Dashevsky, Matthew Birch, Aaron T. Rood, Frederick J. Lisy
  • Patent number: 11524187
    Abstract: A wearable device for comprehensive bio-monitoring of physiologic metrics to determine metabolic, pulmonary and cardiac function and oxygen saturation measurements from breathing mask apparatuses. The device non-invasively monitors the physiologic profile of the subject, and is capable of detecting physiologic changes, predicting onset of symptoms, and alerting the wearer or another person or system. In some embodiments, the device comprises both a wearable sensor suite and a portable gas composition and flow analysis system. In preferred embodiments, it comprises a miniaturized non-invasive sensor suite for detecting physiologic changes to detect dangerous breathing or other health conditions. The acquired physiologic profile is used to generate alarms or warnings based on detectable physiological changes, to adjust gas delivery to the subject, alter mission profiles, or to transfer control of the craft or other duties away from a debilitated subject.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 30, 2019
    Date of Patent: December 13, 2022
    Assignee: Orbital Research Inc.
    Inventors: David Dashevsky, Matthew Birch, Frederick Lisy
  • Patent number: 11441965
    Abstract: A device for detecting a sudden pressure variation in a fluid, including a housing open at one of its ends, a wall closing the housing to create a chamber, the wall being configured such that, when the external pressure outside the chamber is substantially stable or varies slowly, the internal pressure of the chamber is close to the external pressure, and the wall having mechanical characteristics such that it breaks when subjected to a predetermined difference between the external pressure and the internal pressure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 19, 2020
    Date of Patent: September 13, 2022
    Inventor: Christian Hug
  • Patent number: 11344896
    Abstract: A sparger for injection of bubbles into a flotation system comprises a housing, a movable rod assembly, and a sensor system that comprises a sensor and a target that move relative to each other. One of the sensor and the target is located in the housing and the other is located on or attached to the movable rod assembly. The sensor for measuring motion, including position and vibration, relative to the target based on the movement of the movable rod assembly. The sensor system for determining operating parameters of the sparger based on the analysis of the measurement of the motion of the sensor relative to the target.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 31, 2017
    Date of Patent: May 31, 2022
    Assignee: Eriez Manufacturing Co.
    Inventors: Michael J. Mankosa, Ronald P. Krahe, James Jukkola
  • Patent number: 11273257
    Abstract: Infusion pump system and associated methods The invention provides a fluid delivery system (1), comprising: an outlet tube (6); a pump (2) for pumping liquid along a fluid path (100) including the outlet tube; a closed sensing tube (104) branched from the fluid path which, in use, is filled with gas; and a sensor (108) configured to sense movement of a liquid front within the sensing tube and, responsive to sensing of said movement, determine that a partial or total occlusion has occurred within the outlet tube.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 12, 2016
    Date of Patent: March 15, 2022
    Assignee: ViCentra B.V.
    Inventor: Tim Oakes
  • Patent number: 11112809
    Abstract: A system which detects gas leaks near devices which use “natural gas” or other flammable gases such as methane, ethane, propane or butane and implements multiple automatic responses to the detection of such leaks including emitting audible alarms, contacting utility and emergency service providers, and shutting off the flow of the flammable gases is disclosed. Optional to the system allowing the system to report on the approximate location of the leak and/or the approximate danger level caused by the leak by reporting on the gas/air ratios in the area are also disclosed. A method for implementing the method of the invention is also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 28, 2020
    Date of Patent: September 7, 2021
    Inventors: Michael Bafaro, Theodore V. Lester, Peter Paul Walter
  • Patent number: 11000646
    Abstract: An infusion device (1) for acting onto a tube set (2) to transport a medical fluid through the tube set (2) comprises a first housing element (10) constituted to receive a tube section (200, 201) of the tube set (2) and a second housing element (11) being movable with respect to the first housing element (10) such that, in a closed position of the second housing element (11), the first housing element (10) and the second housing element (11) are constituted to receive the tube section (200, 201) in between each other. A sensor device (3) is arranged on the first housing element (10) and having a sensor element (30) for measuring a force on the tube section (200, 201) of the tube set (2). Herein it is provided that the sensor device (3) is arranged on the first housing element (10) in an elastically displaceable manner, wherein the sensor device (3) is supported on the first housing element (10) via at least one spring element (33).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 14, 2016
    Date of Patent: May 11, 2021
    Assignee: Fresenius Vial SAS
    Inventors: Mathieu Paoli, Damien Archat, Sylvain Petinot
  • Patent number: 10648154
    Abstract: A method of controlling hydraulic fluid flow to an implement of a material handling vehicle includes coupling a boom arm to a vehicle frame for rotation about the vehicle frame, rotating a boom arm with respect to the vehicle frame with an actuator, coupling an attachment to the boom arm for rotation with respect to the boom arm, sensing a pressure of fluid in the actuator, communicating the sensed pressure to a control system, determining a baseline pressure of the attachment based upon the sensed pressure of the fluid in the actuator, and limiting fluid flow to the actuator with a control valve in response to the sensed pressure of the fluid in the actuator being above the baseline pressure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 28, 2018
    Date of Patent: May 12, 2020
    Assignee: DEERE & COMPANY
    Inventors: Grant R. Henn, Aaron R. Kenkel, Doug M. Lehmann
  • Patent number: 9638762
    Abstract: Embodiments relate to integrated circuit (IC) sensors and more particularly to IC sensor diagnostics using multiple (e.g., redundant) communication signal paths, wherein one or more of the communication signal paths can be diverse (e.g., in hardware, software or processing, an operating principle, or in some other way) from at least one other of the multiple communication signal paths. Embodiments can relate to a variety of sensor types, implementations and applications, including 3D magnetic field and other sensors.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 24, 2014
    Date of Patent: May 2, 2017
    Assignee: Infineon Technologies AG
    Inventor: Wolfgang Scherr
  • Patent number: 9115733
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a servo-control (1) provided with at least one body (2) defining an inside space (10) together with a slider element (11) having a control piston (12) suitable for sliding in said inside space (10), said control piston (12) subdividing said inside space (10) into a retraction chamber (4) and an extension chamber (3). The servo-control (1) has at least one limit force detector device (20) comprising a casing (21) secured to said body (2) and defining a detection space (22). Furthermore, a movable member (50) subdivides said detection space (22) into a first detection chamber (26) opening out to said inside space (10) and a second detection chamber (27). Finally, the device includes detector means (29) for detecting the position of said movable member (50) in said detection space (22).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 7, 2011
    Date of Patent: August 25, 2015
    Assignee: Airbus Helicopters
    Inventors: Jean-Romain Bihel, Pascal Leguay, Cédric Carlavan, Nicolas Bourdais
  • Patent number: 9035743
    Abstract: Methods, systems, and apparatuses, including computer programs encoded on computer readable media, for determining, using a pressure sensor, pressure data comprising a pressure indication and a time indication. A first mood is determined based upon the pressure data and one or more songs are selected based upon the determined first mood. A playlist is modified based upon the selected one or more songs, wherein the modified playlist comprises the selected one or more songs and the modified playlist is played. Song data, based upon the modified playlist, is wirelessly transmitted to a remote device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 29, 2012
    Date of Patent: May 19, 2015
    Assignee: New York University
    Inventors: Mohammed Yaseer Omar, Abdel Razzaq Sami Alsharif, Ramesh Jagannathan
  • Patent number: 8947242
    Abstract: This disclosure relates generally to valves, and more particularly, to gas valve assemblies. In one example, a valve leakage test may be performed on a valve assembly including a valve body with a first valve and a second valve, where the valves may be positioned across a fluid path in the valve body with an intermediate volume between the valves. A pressure sensor may be in fluid communication with the intermediate volume and may sense a measure that is related to the pressure in the intermediate volume. The pressure sensor may communicate with a controller to determine a measure that is related to a pressure change in the intermediate volume and compare the measure that is related to a pressure change to a first and/or second threshold value. The controller may output a signal if the measure meets and/or exceeds the first and/or second threshold value.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 15, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 3, 2015
    Assignee: Honeywell International Inc.
    Inventors: David Kucera, Gregory Young, Donald J. Kasprzyk, Gregory Todd Filkovski
  • Patent number: 8854221
    Abstract: An ophthalmic surgical system 10 detects a change in a viscosity of a material being aspirated from an eye 32. The system 10 includes a control module 18 connected to an aspiration pump 20, and a flow meter 19 connected to the control module 18 and the aspiration pump 20. The flow meter 19 provides a flow rate of material aspirated from the eye 32 by the aspiration pump 20. A surgical handpiece 24 connected to the aspiration pump 20 and the control module 18 is inserted into the eye 32 during surgery. The control module 18, during surgery, detects a step change in the flow rate of material aspirated from the eye 32 and the control module 18 further causes the surgical system 10 to alert a surgeon that a change in viscosity of the material being aspirated has been detected indicating that the handpiece 24 has moved from a material of a first viscosity to a material of a second viscosity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 19, 2008
    Date of Patent: October 7, 2014
    Assignee: Bausch & Lomb Incorporated
    Inventors: Laurence J. Cull, Carl C. Awh
  • Patent number: 8842016
    Abstract: A system for notifying when a fire extinguisher is discharged or moved uses a device mounted on the fire extinguisher for monitoring one or more conditions. For example, the device may be interconnected with a trigger detecting mechanism otherwise present on the extinguisher or sense a sudden drop in pressure to detect when the extinguisher is activated. An accelerometer may be provided to detect motion. GPS processing can identify the location of the fire extinguisher when an event occurs. When the device detects a change in one or more of the conditions, or needs to send periodic updates of the fire extinguisher conditions, a message is forwarded from the device to a third party clearinghouse via a wireless communication network. The clearinghouse reviews the data, and forwards the data, as may be appropriate, to one or more authorized parties identified in the database.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 6, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 23, 2014
    Assignee: Cellco Partnership
    Inventors: Carlos A. Cazanas, Azam Khan, Terence John Sullivan
  • Patent number: 8805591
    Abstract: A constant-flow control valve and BTU meter assembly that has a pressure independent, constant-flow control valve assembly connectable to the fluid-based heating or cooling system. A valve stem is connected to a valve member and is rotatable as a unit relative to a valve body to change the position of valve member to change a fluid flow rate through the valve. The valve member's position relative to the fluid path is directly related to the fluid flow rate. A BTU meter assembly is connected to the valve stem, which is rotatable relative to the BTU meter assembly. A position sensor of the BTU meter assembly detects a rotational position of the valve stem relative to the BTU body. A controller of the BTU meter assembly determines the fluid flow rate based upon the pressure drop across the valve assembly and the rotational position of the valve stem.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 17, 2012
    Date of Patent: August 12, 2014
    Assignee: Flow Control Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: Paul K. Skoglund, Art Smith, Ben Trueblood, Chris Robson, Mark W. Kirchner
  • Patent number: 8763956
    Abstract: The invention relates to equipment for refueling an aircraft, including a pipe (40) provided with means (42) for connecting onto an intake port (301) of the fuel tank of the aircraft (400) and, at or in the vicinity of the connection means (42), means (501) for determining the value of at least one parameter representative of a flow (E) of fuel passing through the connection means. Said equipment further includes at least one receiver onboard the refueling equipment (1), means (503, 504) for transmitting, to the receiver, a signal (Si(P)) representative of a parameter value predetermined by determination means (501) and an electronic unit capable of receiving, from the receiver, a signal representative of the parameter and of driving at least one flow control and monitoring device in accordance with the signal received from the receiver.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 4, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 1, 2014
    Assignee: Desautel
    Inventor: Claude Beck
  • Patent number: 8766806
    Abstract: A real time method and dynamic logic-based system for enhancing the operation of a pipeline network is disclosed. The system and method perform monitoring of the operation of a pipeline network, generate alarms in response to differing levels of destabilized pipeline operations, manage the generation of alarms based upon known operating events and operating conditions, diagnose potential source of the detected destabilized events and manage the operation of the pipeline.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 26, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 1, 2014
    Assignee: ExxonMobil Research and Engineering Company
    Inventor: Keith C McDowell
  • Patent number: 8749393
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for detecting leakage of flowing liquids from pipes includes an upstream flow-rate sensor positioned between a source of a flowing liquid which is conducted from a source to a destination terminal such as a VAV heat exchanger, and a downstream flow-rate sensor positioned between an outlet port of the destination terminal and a return line for the flowing liquid. The apparatus includes electronic control circuitry which is responsive to a differential flow-rate between upstream and downstream measured flow rates which exceeds a predetermined limit value in removing a valve-opening signal to the upstream shut-off valve, thus closing the valve to interrupt flow of liquid through the valve if the differential flow-rate signifies a leak. Optionally, the apparatus also includes a downstream shut-off valve positioned between the destination terminal and a return line, which is also closed in response to a differential flow-rate exceeding the limit value.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 14, 2011
    Date of Patent: June 10, 2014
    Assignee: Control Air Conditioning Corporation
    Inventor: Robin Tollefson
  • Patent number: 8717184
    Abstract: A sensor device detects an object, in particular for optically detecting smoke particles. The sensor device contains a transmitting device for emitting transmit radiation, a receiving device for receiving receive radiation having scattering radiation that is generated by an at least partial scattering of the transmit radiation by the object, and for outputting a measurement signal indicative of the receive radiation, a signal modification device for modifying the measurement signal and for outputting a modified measurement signal, a level of the modified measurement signal increasing after the transmitting device has been switched on, and a calibration device for monitoring the modified measurement signal. The calibration device is embodied such that a reaching of a predefined signal level for the modified measurement signal can be detected and that a time interval between the switching on of the transmitting device and the reaching of the predefined signal level can be determined.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 15, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 6, 2014
    Assignee: Siemens Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventors: Hans Aebersold, Ke Wei Bi, Hu Lin Wang
  • Patent number: 8590562
    Abstract: A fluid flow detection device includes a housing of non-magnetic metal, a flow passage through the housing and a valve seat in the flow passage. A magnetic valve element emits a magnetic field. The valve element is movable relative to the valve seat between a closed position blocking fluid flow through the flow passage and an open position allowing fluid flow through the flow passage. The magnetic valve element is biased toward the closed position. A magnetic field enhancer is movable with the magnetic valve element for enhancing the magnetic field. A magnetic field sensor on the housing is operable to signal a change in position of the valve element as it moves between its open and closed positions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 17, 2010
    Date of Patent: November 26, 2013
    Assignee: Lincoln Industries Corporation
    Inventors: Canlong He, Paul G. Conley
  • Publication number: 20130239803
    Abstract: A method for reducing airborne contamination within a home includes installing an air-pressure control system within a window of the home, and drawing air from outside the home through the system inlet and an airflow path through the system. As it passes through the airflow path, a germicidal radiation chamber with a UV light source sterilizes the air. Additionally, filter(s) may clean the drawn air by removing particulates from the air as it passes through the filter. The method may then introduce the sterilized/cleaned air into the home through the system outlet. The sterilized/cleaned air may displace an equal volume of contaminated air within the home.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 28, 2013
    Publication date: September 19, 2013
    Applicant: AMERICAN INNOVATIVE RESEARCH CORP.
    Inventor: David W. Palmer
  • Patent number: 8514092
    Abstract: An alarm circuit is for a fan. The alarm circuit includes a direct current converting circuit, a first electronic switch, a second electronic switch, a clock chip, and a light emitting diode. When the fan does not operate, the light emitting diode blinks to warn the user that the fan may have a problem.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 2, 2011
    Date of Patent: August 20, 2013
    Assignees: Hong Fu Jin Precision Industry (ShenZhen) Co., Ltd., Hon Hai Precision Industry Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Xiang Cao, Hai-Qing Zhou
  • Patent number: 8508375
    Abstract: A comparative pressure monitoring instrument (10) houses a switch (14) having first and second ports (18) and (20), and a high flow impedance 16. The ports (18) and (20) are in fluidal communication with a first pressure source (72) and a second pressure source (82) respectively. The impedance (16) is coupled (i.e. shunted) across the switch ports (18) and (20) and the first and second pressure sources (72, 82). The switch (14) switches between a first state characterised by a pressure differential across the impedance (16) being less than a preset level and a second state characterised by the pressure differential across the impedance (16) being equal to or greater than the preset difference. Any difference in pressure between the sources (72) and (82) will cause an air/gas flow through the impedance (16) and thus a pressure drop across the impedance (16).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 21, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 13, 2013
    Assignee: Structural Monitoring Systems Ltd.
    Inventors: Nigel Laxton, Henry Kroker
  • Patent number: 8502687
    Abstract: A server and method detects a pipeline. The server reads pipeline data from a data collector and analyzes the pipeline data to determine if the pipeline works abnormally. An alert command is sent by the server to an alarm computer to notify a user in response to a determination that the pipeline works abnormally. The server saves the pipeline data into a database system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 22, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 6, 2013
    Assignees: GDS Software (ShenZhen) Co., Ltd, Hon Hai Precision Industry Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Chi-Chih Wang, Bing-Yu He, Zhong-Gen Zhan, Shi-Yi Yang
  • Patent number: 8471702
    Abstract: A method for monitoring the health of a compressor of a gas turbine is disclosed. The method includes receiving a plurality of turbine data points, wherein the plurality of turbine data points may include one or more operating parameters, at least one of a computer discharge temperature (CTD), and one or more performance parameters. The plurality of turbine data points may be categorized based on the one or more operating parameters. A statistical variability measure of at least one of the CTD and the one or more performance parameters may be computed for each of the plurality of bands. An alarm indicator may be computed based on the at least one statistical variability measure. The method may also include combining two or more of the operating parameters, the CTD and the performance parameters using sensor fusion techniques. The alarm indicator may be computed based on the combined parameters.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 22, 2010
    Date of Patent: June 25, 2013
    Assignee: General Electric Company
    Inventors: Ravi Yoganatha Babu, Vinay Bhaskar Jammu, Achalesh Kumar Pandey, Sudhanshu Rai
  • Patent number: 8427327
    Abstract: The invention relates to a method for measuring and controlling a fluid flow in a pipe system for liquid transport, such as oil flow during buoy loading, wherein there in each end of a the pipe system is spliced in a sensor (1) consisting of a pipe section (2) with a reinforced rubber bellows (3) positioned as a restriction within the transport pipe. The rubber bellows (3) is forced radially outward when there is oil flowing through the transport pipe, and compresses a gas filled volume in a pressure vessel (4) via a pipe connection (4B) in communication with an annulus (5), and a pressure transmitter (6A/B) gives signals to a control system (7).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 19, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 23, 2013
    Assignee: Tool-Tech AS
    Inventor: Egil Eriksen
  • Patent number: 8400290
    Abstract: This disclosure describes systems and methods for reducing nuisance alarms associated with monitoring non-physiological parameters in a ventilatory system. Non-physiological parameters may include, but are not limited to, parameters that are internally monitored by the ventilator based on pre-configured ranges dictated by the manufacturer, by an applicable protocol, or by the clinician. Embodiments described herein seek to mitigate nuisance alarms by basing alarm conditions, at least in part, on an integral threshold such that an alarm is not generated when a monitored parameter briefly falls outside an acceptable range by a slight degree, but such that an alarm is generated when a monitored parameter falls outside an acceptable range by a more significant magnitude and/or duration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 19, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 19, 2013
    Assignee: Covidien LP
    Inventor: Clark R. Baker, Jr.
  • Patent number: 8384529
    Abstract: A mobile apparatus includes a casing; a first force-sense generating mechanism which selectively imparts, to the user who is carrying the casing; a force-sense of a first translation force directed toward one side in a first direction, and a force-sense of a second translational force directed toward the other side in the first direction; and a second force-sense generating mechanism which is arranged in the casing, at an opposite side of the first force-sense generating mechanism with respect to a straight line passing through a center of gravity of the mobile apparatus, and which selectively imparts a force-sense of a third translational force directed toward one side in a second direction which is substantially parallel to the first direction, and a force-sense of a fourth translational force directed toward the other side in the second direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 27, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 26, 2013
    Assignee: Brother Kogyo Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventor: Hiroto Sugahara
  • Patent number: 8354934
    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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 14, 2010
    Date of Patent: January 15, 2013
    Assignee: Fike Corporation
    Inventors: Joseph A. Walker, Bon F. Shaw
  • Patent number: 8264361
    Abstract: A highly sensitive low loss and low flow fluid flow switch is coupled with an automatic timer and/or optional transmitter to indicate the flow of gas to an appliance and to automatically start a reminder timer to turn the appliance off. After a preset time limit has expired, the timer either sounds an alarm or wirelessly triggers an alarm in a remote location. The receiver portion of the wireless timer may be mounted directly to the appliance (grill handle), so that the timer automatically resets when activity (cover opening or closing) is detected, indicating the appliance is still in use. An alarm can also be configured to sound when the grill is attempted to be ignited with the cover closed, thereby avoiding a potential explosion. A biasing attraction magnet is incorporated in the fluid flow switch to offset either the force of gravity or a return spring in order to extend performance to low pressure and low flow applications.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 21, 2008
    Date of Patent: September 11, 2012
    Assignee: Waterstrike Incorporated
    Inventor: David A. Struyk
  • Patent number: 8264360
    Abstract: A highly sensitive low loss and low flow fluid flow switch is coupled with an automatic timer and/or optional transmitter to indicate the flow of gas to an appliance and to automatically start a reminder timer to turn the appliance off. After a preset time limit has expired, the timer either sounds an alarm or wirelessly triggers an alarm in a remote location. The receiver portion of the wireless timer may be mounted directly to the appliance (grill handle), so that the timer automatically resets when activity (cover opening or closing) is detected, indicating the appliance is still in use. An alarm can also be configured to sound when the grill is attempted to be ignited with the cover closed, thereby avoiding a potential explosion. A biasing attraction magnet is incorporated in the fluid flow switch to offset either the force of gravity or a return spring in order to extend performance to low pressure and low flow applications.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 20, 2008
    Date of Patent: September 11, 2012
    Assignee: Waterstrike Incorporated
    Inventor: David A. Struyk
  • Patent number: 8144022
    Abstract: An apparatus designed to alert on an abnormal condition inside of a fiber bundle (116). The apparatus includes an air pipe (112) configured inside of the fiber bundle, an air compression element adapted to apply air into the air pipe, at least one sensor (124, 128, 132, 136, 148) configured in combination with the air pipe wherein at least one sensor is coupled to at least one location on the air pipe. An alerting element (172, 308) is configured to notify on an abnormal measurements of at least one sensor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 25, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 27, 2012
    Assignee: Eastman Kodak Company
    Inventors: Tamir Olpak, Vitaly Burkatovsky
  • Patent number: 8138931
    Abstract: Diagnostic and response systems and methods for a fluid power system acquire data from pressure and temperature sensors disposed in the fluid power system, analyze the data in a failure algorithm to build a history of cumulative damage to hoses in the fluid power system, communicates an indication of potential imminent hose failure to a central location when a level of the cumulative damage indicates imminent failure of a hose, analyze the information at the central location to determine an appropriate response, and transmit information about the fluid power system, including location, and identification of the hose about to fail to a response unit. The response unit responds to the location and replaces the component prior to failure, or the communication might include information that the hose has failed, such that the response unit replaces the failed hose to return the fluid power system to normal operation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 28, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 20, 2012
    Assignee: The Gates Corporation
    Inventors: Geoffrey Richard Keast, Michael H. Ellis, Jonathan Clark Swift, Layne Railsback, Donald R. Gilbreath
  • Patent number: 8072340
    Abstract: A water leakage monitoring system including a water leakage position estimator which includes a periodic data acquiring unit for fetching predetermined-period flow rate pressure data stored in a monitoring device, and for fetching a signal related to a flow rate change and pressure changes expecting a water leakage reaction time calculating unit for calculating a pressure reaction time lag between two pressure changes, a pressure propagation velocity estimating unit for estimating a pressure propagation velocity using the pressure reaction time lag and a distance between two pressure gauges located in a water distribution block stored in a pipeline network map data, and a flow rate change position estimating unit for receiving a signal related to the flow rate change, and estimating a flow rate change position using pressure propagation velocity and a flow meter and pressure gauge locating positions of the pipeline network map data.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 6, 2008
    Date of Patent: December 6, 2011
    Assignees: Kabushiki Kaisha Toshiba, City Of Kitakyushu
    Inventors: Atsushi Yukawa, Katsuya Yokokawa, Naoto Oishi
  • Patent number: 8029608
    Abstract: A furnace filter indicator system comprises a pressure differential switch that monitors air pressure near a furnace filter, and a transmitter coupled to the pressure differential switch sends a signal to a receiver within a thermostat. The receiver includes an indicator for indicating the status of the furnace filter. If the pressure differential near the furnace filter triggers the switch, then the indicator will receive a “dirty” signal and will indicate that the furnace filter is dirty and should be replaced. The furnace filter indicator system is able to be installed on a previously installed furnace/thermostat system by utilizing the pre-existing wiring.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 13, 2006
    Date of Patent: October 4, 2011
    Assignee: BD Technology Partners
    Inventor: Stewart Breslin
  • Patent number: 8004415
    Abstract: Methods, systems and program products are provided for monitoring an article for fluid exposure. A plurality of liquid sensors is incorporated into an article beneath an outer layer in a furnishing installation. In response to a fluid-detected or no-fluid-detected state, polling the sensors and sometimes other data, a processor component determines fluid exposure, sensor failure and tampering events and stores event data in a memory. Pairs of the sensors are sometimes provided within expected liquid exposure saturation footprint areas. GPS coordinate, weather condition data and structural component positioning data may also be associated with event data.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 6, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 23, 2011
    Assignee: International Business Machines Corporation
    Inventors: Gregory J. Boss, Peter G. Finn, Rick A. Hamilton, II, Brian M. O'Connell, James W. Seaman, Keith R. Walker
  • Patent number: 8001914
    Abstract: To produce, monitor, and control a flow of air for a seed conveying system and a seed metering system, an air-assisted planting system includes an air handling system having a single air source and an air controller for maintaining a generally constant air pressure to the metering system. The air controller includes a plurality of sensors associated with and operable to monitor an air pressure through the metering system. Based on a sensed air pressure, a microprocessor of the air controller instructs the air handling system to selectively divert the flow of air to the metering system on an as-needed basis to maintain the generally constant air pressure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 12, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 23, 2011
    Assignee: Great Plains Manufacturing, Inc.
    Inventors: Bruce D. Peterson, Brent W. Nelson
  • Patent number: 7982624
    Abstract: A system for preventing accidents in the operation of a monitored apparatus carried by a user has terminal in direct contact with the body of the user and provided with a circuit for continuously or periodically transmitting an authorizing user data signal through the body of the user. A signal receiver assigned on the monitored apparatus or machine has an interface in contact with the user for receiving the signal, a circuit for continuously or periodically testing the received data signal, another circuit for outputting a clearance signal that allows operation of the monitored machine or apparatus after a successful test of the received authorizing user data signal, and yet another circuit for terminating output of the clearance signal following a successful test of the authorizing user data signal when a subsequent test of the data signal fails.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 28, 2003
    Date of Patent: July 19, 2011
    Assignee: Ident Technology AG
    Inventors: Wolfgang Richter, Stefan Donat, Peter Rosenbeck
  • Patent number: 7965182
    Abstract: A method for operating a failsafe-enabled wireless device is provided that includes monitoring a signal quality for a wireless signal between a failsafe-enabled wireless device and a controller. A determination is made regarding whether the signal quality is poor. A failsafe procedure is initiated when the signal quality is poor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 8, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 21, 2011
    Assignee: Honeywell International Inc.
    Inventor: Jeffrey M. Becker
  • Patent number: 7945414
    Abstract: A method for detecting abnormality in a fluid supply line is provided that uses a fluid control apparatus with a pressure sensor so that abnormality of malfunction and sheet leaks of a plurality of valves incorporated into the fluid supply line can be checked easily, promptly and accurately by operating the flow rate control apparatus possessing the pressure sensor. Specifically, using a fluid supply line provided with the flow rate control apparatus possessing the pressure sensor equipped with a flow rate setting mechanism, a flow rate/pressure display mechanism, and/or a flow rate self-diagnosis mechanism, abnormality of the control valves, installed with the flow rate control apparatus and on the upstream side and downstream side thereof, is detected by using the pressure value displayed and/or the value diagnosed with a self-diagnosis mechanism of the flow rate control apparatus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 28, 2006
    Date of Patent: May 17, 2011
    Assignee: Fujikin Incorporated
    Inventors: Masaaki Nagase, Ryousuke Dohi, Nobukazu Ikeda, Kouji Nishino, Kaoru Hirata, Katsuyuki Sugita, Atsushi Matsumoto
  • Patent number: 7891435
    Abstract: An Apparatus for remote inspection of emergency equipment at one or a system of emergency equipment stations includes, e.g., at each emergency equipment station: a detector for detection of the presence of an obstruction to viewing of or access to the emergency equipment station; and an electronic circuit in communication between the detector and a remote central station for issue of a signal to the remote central station upon detection of the obstruction to viewing of or access to the emergency equipment station.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 8, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 22, 2011
    Assignee: en-Gauge, Inc.
    Inventors: John J. McSheffrey, John J. McSheffrey, Jr., Brendan T. McSheffrey
  • Patent number: 7891241
    Abstract: An apparatus for remote inspection of fire extinguishers at one or a system of fire extinguisher stations includes, e.g., at each fire extinguisher station: a detector for lack of presence of a fire extinguisher in its installed position at the fire extinguisher station; a detector for out-of-range pressure of contents of the fire extinguisher at the fire extinguisher station; a detector for an obstruction to viewing of or access to the fire extinguisher at the fire extinguisher station; and a device for transmission of inspection report information from the fire extinguisher station to a remote central station.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 16, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 22, 2011
    Assignee: en-Gauge, Inc.
    Inventors: John J. McSheffrey, Brendan T. McSheffrey
  • Patent number: 7889087
    Abstract: A fluid detection system comprises a liquid sensor, an air pump and an atmospheric pressure sensor encased within an air and water permeable casing defining an enclosed air space. The pressure sensor acquires pressure samples within the casing, the air pump expelling additional gas into the casing. In response to determining a flood-status or a non-flood-status state of the fluid detection system and comparing the samples, a failure of the fluid detection system or an immersion of the fluid detection system in fluid is determined. In some embodiments, failure is determined if a second sample is greater than a first sample in a non-flooded state, and in others immersion is determined if a second sample is greater than a first sample value and the determined state is flooded. In some examples, gas is expelled across a liquid detection surface and a third sample value is acquired.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 6, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 15, 2011
    Assignee: International Business Machines Corporation
    Inventors: Gregory J. Boss, Peter G. Finn, Rick A. Hamilton, II, Brian M. O'Connell, James W. Seaman, Keith R. Walker
  • Patent number: 7871237
    Abstract: A method and system for monitoring a gas turbine engine (20) to predict maintenance requirements. Particles suspended in a gas flow (24, 32) of the engine (20) are monitored and quantified to predict a particle accumulation rate. Monitoring may be done using particle flow sensors (61-63) in a diverted portion (33) of the working gas flow (24), such as in the cooling gas flow (32). Particle sampling (S1-S3) may be done to determine particle size and composition distributions. Particle mass flow rates may then be continuously monitored per engine operating condition, and compared to predetermined values such as a normal upper limit per engine operating condition. An integrated particle mass flow may be used in conjunction with an instantaneous mass flow rate to predict a maintenance requirement. Multiple locations (L1-L3) may be monitored to recognize a maintenance requirement by flow section or component.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 7, 2006
    Date of Patent: January 18, 2011
    Assignee: Siemens Energy, Inc.
    Inventors: Richard H. Bunce, Francisco Dovali-Solis
  • Patent number: 7868774
    Abstract: An oil leakage detector for detecting the leakage of e.g. diesel or fuel oil in an engine room of a vessel comprises a conduit for an airflow therethrough, and a screen in the conduit. The screen is meshed to prevent oil particles or droplets from passing therethrough. A sensor determines a pressure loss across the screen, and a control system operatively connected to the sensor is configured to output an oil leakage warning signal if the pressure loss exceeds a predetermined threshold value. A fan may be provided for generating the airflow through the conduit. A gas sensor for determining the presence of hydrocarbon, carbon monoxide or carbon dioxide is optionally provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 20, 2007
    Date of Patent: January 11, 2011
    Assignee: Daspos A/S
    Inventor: Torben Jorgensen
  • Patent number: 7859403
    Abstract: A system and method for selectively communicating data from a remote facility to a central computing device via one or more communication networks and/or protocols. Measurement data for a particular operation is collected and stored by a field device at the remote facility. The field device compares the collected measurement data to stored threshold data to detect an alarm event or transfer event. If an alarm event is detected, the RTU transfers an alarm message to a user via a first communication network. If a transfer event is detected, the RTU transfers a transfer message to the user via a different communication network. If a no-event is detected, the field device continues to collect and store measurement data for the particular operation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 6, 2008
    Date of Patent: December 28, 2010
    Assignee: Elecsys Corporation
    Inventor: Michael S. Tampke
  • Patent number: 7843354
    Abstract: A determination of bleed valve activation in a gas turbine engine can be difficult unless the engine is maintained at a steady idle state for comparison between that state and effects of activation of the bleed valve. Furthermore, specific test activation of bleed valves increases wear and tear on those valves. By sensing a flow pressure response signal and then through appropriate averaging and processing through a non-linear filter, it is possible to identify bleed valve activation by a target signal response exceeding a threshold indicative of such bleed valve activation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 5, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 30, 2010
    Assignee: Rolls-Royce PLC
    Inventors: Jonathan Edmund Holt, Richard Leonard Martin
  • Patent number: 7834772
    Abstract: A monitoring system for monitoring an air-conditioner may include a pressure sensor for detecting the pressure of the fluid of the air-conditioner, a power sensor for detecting the presence of supply voltage supplied to the air-conditioner and applied voltage which is applied to the air-conditioner, an activation device to activate an alarm based upon the detection of the pressure from the pressure sensor, the detection of the supply voltage to the air-conditioner and the detection of the applied voltage to the air-conditioner. The activation device may be activated based only on the loss of pressure detected by the pressure sensor, and the activation device may not be activated if the supplied voltage is detected. The activation device may be activated when both the supplied voltage is detected and the applied voltage is not detected, and the activation device may be connected to a disconnect switch to detect the supplied voltage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 5, 2008
    Date of Patent: November 16, 2010
    Inventor: Robert W. Frederick