Pressure Patents (Class 340/611)
  • Patent number: 6450190
    Abstract: A method of detecting abnormalities in flow rate in pressure-type flow controller. The method checks the flow rate for abnormalities while controlling the flow rate of fluid in a pressure-type flow controller FCS using an orifice—the pressure-type flow controller wherein with the upstream pressure P1 maintained about two or more times higher than the downstream pressure P2, the downstream flow rate QC is calculated by the equation QC=KP1 (K: constant) and wherein the control valve CV is controlled on the basis of the difference signal QY between the calculated flow rate QC and the set flow rate QS.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 6, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 17, 2002
    Assignees: Tokyo Electron Ltd., Fujikin Incorporated
    Inventors: Tadahiro Ohmi, Seiichi Iida, Satoshi Kagatsume, Jun Hirose, Kazuo Fukasawa, Hiroshi Koizumi, Hideki Nagaoka, Tomio Uno, Kouji Nishino, Nobukazu Ikeda, Ryousuke Dohi, Eiji Ideta
  • Patent number: 6437694
    Abstract: The invention is directed to a system for detecting the presence or absence of a blocker to an air code flow. The system comprises an active air code generator, a sensor element through which an air code generated by the active air code generator travels, and an air code detector, which detects the air code, wherein if the detection of air code by the air code detector is interrupted, it signals the presence or absence of a blocker of the air code.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 1, 2000
    Date of Patent: August 20, 2002
    Inventor: Jung K. Lee
  • Patent number: 6434433
    Abstract: The external intelligent component (3) connected with a microprocessor system (2) is described for essentially automatic control of a control element (1) without burdening the microprocessor system operation. The control parameters for the control element (1) are written into a data memory (6) of the external component (3) from the microprocessor system (2) and are read out internally from the data memory (6) during normal operation of the external component (3). Control of the external component (3) is possible by the microprocessor system (2) without blocking the system bus (5,7) of the microprocessor system (2) using a control line from the microprocessor to a reset input (RESET) of a controller (13) of the external component (3).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 2, 1999
    Date of Patent: August 13, 2002
    Assignee: Robert Bosch GmbH
    Inventors: Werner Fischer, Peter Grosshans, Mathias Kugel
  • Patent number: 6384715
    Abstract: A variable support mechanism includes a plurality of pneumatic bladders and an electronic control system for controlling the inflation and deflation thereof. Each of the bladders communicates through a valve with a common manifold. The operations of the valves are individually controlled by a microprocessor. A pressure sensor communicates with the manifold and generates electrical signals that are representative of the magnitude of the fluid pressure in the manifold to the microprocessor. The microprocessor is also connected to a vent valve that provides selective fluid communication between the manifold and the atmosphere. The microprocessor is further connected to a pressure valve that provides selective fluid communication between the manifold and a pump. Initially, the magnitude of the pressure in each of the bladders is sampled, measured, and stored by the electronic control system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 14, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 7, 2002
    Assignee: Rostra Precision Controls, Inc.
    Inventor: Jerry L. Potter
  • Patent number: 6348869
    Abstract: A pipe leak testing arrangement which includes a device having sealing bags joined by a coupling. When inflated, the bags form a seal volume chamber. The bags may not form a perfect seal, and as a result leakage past the bags may occur when a differential pressure is present. A remaining portion of the pipe forms a test volume chamber. A first transducer measures differential pressure between the chambers and a further transducer measures the test chamber pressure. Measured pressure information is used by a control device to track pressure change and to adjust the seal pressure so as to maintain equal pressures even if the test pressure decays due to a pipe fracture. In an alternative arrangement, two separate devices with associated circuitry are provided to facilitate two temporary seal pressure chambers with the test chamber therebetween.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 28, 2000
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2002
    Assignee: Lattice Intellectual Property Limited
    Inventor: Roger Philip Ashworth
  • Publication number: 20020005785
    Abstract: A method checks the flow rate for abnormalities while controlling the flow rate of fluid in a pressure-type flow controller FCS using an orifice—the pressure-type flow controller wherein with the upstream pressure P1 maintained about two or more times higher than the downstream pressure P2, the downstream flow rate QC is calculated by the equation QC=KP1 (K: constant) and wherein the control valve CV is controlled on the basis of the difference signal QY between the calculated flow rate QC and the set flow rate QS.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 6, 2001
    Publication date: January 17, 2002
    Inventors: Tadahiro Ohmi, Seiichi Iida, Satoshi Kagatsume, Jun Hirose, Kazuo Fukasawa, Hiroshi Koizumi, Hideki Nagaoka, Tomio Uno, Kouji Nishino, Nobukazu Ikeda, Ryousuke Dohi, Eiji Ideta
  • Patent number: 6333689
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for a flow-based fire alarm. A bypass system is provided to allow sufficient water flow where a pressure drop, particularly in a residential or multi-purpose piping system such as a water softener is encountered, by providing an alternate, lower pressure flow path allowing additional flow when the pressure drop through the system becomes too great. Flow detection means are also provided with minimal pressure drop to insure that flow for fire protection need is not unduly restricted. The flow detection means includes either a differential pressure switch coupled to an orifice plate or a moving orifice plate having thereon a magnet, which communicates with a Reed switch in proportion to the flow therethrough. An integral system incorporating all of the elements discussed provides multiple levels of security for a fire protection system for use in a residence or other structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 30, 1999
    Date of Patent: December 25, 2001
    Inventor: Richard Young
  • Patent number: 6333695
    Abstract: An apparatus for flow detection, measurement and control and method for use of same in a piping and/or fire sprinkler system. The apparatus combines a flow sensor for creating an electrical output proportional to flow through therethrough with a bypass means for allowing flow through an alternate flow path where a primary flow path is insufficient to supply the demand. The apparatus includes a moving orifice plate, which is displaced by flow through the sensor and creates an electronic output by the interaction of a moving magnet moving in tandem with the orifice plate with a normally closed Reed switch on an exterior surface of the sensor, which is opened when the magnet is displaced into sufficiently close proximity to the Reed switch. The apparatus can also be adapted to serve as a double check valve. A moving check is added with a sealing means thereon for providing one check, and sealing means on the orifice plate are provided to serve as a second check.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 8, 2000
    Date of Patent: December 25, 2001
    Inventor: Richard Young
  • Patent number: 6326896
    Abstract: A warning device configured for removable mounting in combination with a high pressure gas cylinder and a regulator used to regulate the high pressure gas supplied by the cylinder. The device compression mounts between the regulator and tank outlet on conventional portable oxygen and gas supply systems using a specially configured manifold. The device features one or a combination of alarms, from a group including audio, visual, electronic, and remotely transmitted alarms. These alarms are activated by a pressure switch monitoring the remaining supply in the gas cylinder through a conduit the manifold. The alarm signal from the device alerts the user, or a third party monitoring the user, of current tank pressure or will sound an alarm when remaining high pressure gas inside the gas cylinder drops below a predetermined level.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 24, 2000
    Date of Patent: December 4, 2001
    Inventors: Francis Fritz McDermott, Bettie McDermott
  • Patent number: 6307466
    Abstract: A two stage air filter restriction indicating device communicates with the supply of air passing from an air filter to the air intake of an engine. The amount of vacuum required by the engine to supply air is directly indicative of the amount of blockage in the air filtering system. The gauge or air filter restriction indicating device monitors this vacuum level and provides signals at an output indicating whether a predetermined vacuum level has been achieved. In one configuration, the gauge locks into this configuration and maintains its output, even when the engine is shut off. Alternatively, the gauge of the present invention automatically resets, thus not requiring a manual reset of the gauge.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 25, 1999
    Date of Patent: October 23, 2001
    Assignee: Engineered Products Company
    Inventor: Gregory Matthew Ferris
  • Patent number: 6302130
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for detection of clogging of an orifice by measuring the upstream side pressure without breaking up the piping system in a flow rate control unit using an orifice, so as to extend the life of the flow rate control unit and enhance its safety. The apparatus of detecting clogging of an orifice in a pressure-type flow rate controller has a control valve (CV), an orifice (2), a pressure detector (14) for measuring the upstream pressure P1 therebetween, and a flow rate setting circuit (32) wherein, with the upstream pressure P1 maintained about two or more times higher than the downstream pressure P2, the downstream flow rate QC is calculated with the equation QC=KP1 (K=constant) and wherein the control valve (CV) is controlled by the difference signal QY between the calculated flow rate QC and the set flow rate QS.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 18, 2000
    Date of Patent: October 16, 2001
    Assignees: Fujikin Incorporated, Tokyo Electron Ltd.
    Inventors: Tadahiro Ohmi, Seiichi Iida, Satoshi Kagatsume, Jun Hirose, Kouji Nishino, Nobukazu Ikeda, Michio Yamaji, Ryousuke Dohi, Kazuhiro Yoshikawa, Mutsunori Koyomogi, Tomio Uno, Eiji Ideta, Takashi Hirose
  • Publication number: 20010026225
    Abstract: An apparatus for flow detection, measurement and control and method for use of same in a piping and/or fire sprinkler system. The apparatus combines a flow sensor for creating an electrical output proportional to flow through therethrough with a bypass means for allowing flow through an alternate flow path where a primary flow path is insufficient to supply the demand. The apparatus includes a moving orifice plate, which is displaced by flow through the sensor and creates an electronic output by the interaction of a moving magnet moving in tandem with the orifice plate with a normally closed Reed switch on an exterior surface of the sensor, which is opened when the magnet is displaced into sufficiently close proximity to the Reed switch. The apparatus can also be adapted to serve as a double check valve. A moving check is added with a sealing means thereon for providing one check, and sealing means on the orifice plate are provided to serve as a second check.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 8, 2000
    Publication date: October 4, 2001
    Inventor: Richard Young
  • Patent number: 6285288
    Abstract: A transmitter (41) is arranged to produce and focus a beam (54) on a remote focal point (55). A small proportion of resultant light (58) is back-scattered from the focal point (55) by particles or aerosols in air flowing through point (55) and returns to a receiver (42) where it is collected A detector combines resultant light (58) and reference light (72), splits the resultant light (58) and reference light (72) equally between two arms and detects which arm leads the other in phase thereby indicating the flow direction of air through focal point (55).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 18, 1999
    Date of Patent: September 4, 2001
    Assignee: Marconi Electronic Systems Limited
    Inventors: Roger M Langdon, Philip M Watts
  • Publication number: 20010010496
    Abstract: A humidification system for a fuel cell includes a humidifier having a bundled plurality of tube type hollow thread members made of a water permeable membrane. The humidifier transfers a water content contained in a discharge gas, which is emitted from a fuel cell, to a supply gas, which is supplied to the fuel cell, when one of the discharge gas and the supply gas is passed through the inside of the tube type hollow thread members and the other one of the discharge gas and the supply gas is passed through between the tube type hollow thread members. Manometers P1, P2, P3, and P4 detect a difference in pressure of the supply gas and the discharge gas, respectively, between an upper stream side and a down stream side of the humidifier. A determination unit determines a generation of clogging in the humidifier based on detection signals from the manometers.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 29, 2001
    Publication date: August 2, 2001
    Applicant: Honda Giken Kogyo Kabushiki Kaishi
    Inventors: Hiroshi Shimanuki, Yoshio Kusano, Motohiro Suzuki, Toshikatsu Katagiri
  • Patent number: 6268791
    Abstract: An air filter restriction indicating device communicating with the supply of air passing from an air filter to the air intake of an internal combustion engine. The indicating device senses a decrease in the supply of air drawn through the air filter by the engine based upon changes in the amount of vacuum in the negative side of the air supply, the amount of restriction being indicated by the movement of an indicating device. Improved means included in the indicating device senses the movement of the indicating device and progressively locks the indicating device into various indicating positions as the vacuum increases due to an increased restriction of the filter, so that the maximum reading of restriction achieved during engine operation remains visible to the operator or maintenance personnel even after the engine is turned off.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 12, 1999
    Date of Patent: July 31, 2001
    Assignee: Engineered Products Company
    Inventor: Gregory Matthew Ferris
  • Patent number: 6239708
    Abstract: An apparatus for a flow-based fire alarm. A bypass system is provided to allow sufficient water flow where a pressure drop, particularly in a residential or multi-purpose piping system such as a water softener is encountered, by providing an alternate, lower pressure flow path allowing additional flow when the pressure drop through the system becomes too great. Flow detection means are also provided with minimal pressure drop to insure that flow for fire protection need is not unduly restricted. The flow detection means includes either a differential pressure switch coupled to an orifice plate or a moving orifice plate having thereon a magnet, which communicates with a Reed switch in proportion to the flow therethrough.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 18, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 29, 2001
    Inventor: Richard Young
  • Patent number: 6229447
    Abstract: An indicator assembly includes a conduit segment located in place along a gas supply line served by a pressurized tank. A pressure actuated switch of the assembly closes upon sensing gas pressure in the conduit segment to close a circuit including a battery and an indicator to signal a user that the supply line is pressurized which can occur when proper shut down procedure is not accomplished or a faulty control valve. A bleed valve on the conduit segment permits venting of a pressurized gas line. A check valve of the assembly prevents erroneous activation of the indicator by residual gas trapped in the supply line after shut down.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 9, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 8, 2001
    Inventors: C. Gene Hand, Paul M. Redhead
  • Patent number: 6154143
    Abstract: A meteorological information system useable by aircraft pilots and others. A receiver-calculator unit receives raw meteorological data and site-specific physical data from a ground-based weather station having a signal transmitter for broadcasting signals conveying data about weather conditions at the station. The transmitted raw data signals are received by the receiver-calculator unit in the aircraft. The receiver-calculator unit may feature an input with which the operator inputs information about the physical character, such as the heading, of the runway of interest. The receiver-calculator unit processes both received raw weather data and received site-specific physical data, and/or operator-input data, to derive additional meteorological information. The raw and derived weather conditions information is displayed by the unit to be available to the aircraft pilot during landing or take-off maneuvers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 16, 1999
    Date of Patent: November 28, 2000
    Assignee: Belfort Instrument, Inc.
    Inventor: Bruce R. Robinson
  • Patent number: 6137416
    Abstract: A centrifugal blood pump driver comprises a motor housing and the housing contains a motor for rotationally driving the centrifugal blood pump and a controller operatively associated with the motor for controlling the rotational speed of the motor; a speed selector for generating a selected speed signal signifying a selected rotational speed for the motor; sensors operatively associated with the motor or controller for sensing the rotational speed of the motor and outputting a monitor signal signifying such rotational speed; program memory for storage of a program of microprocessor readable instructions; a microprocessor under program control, in electrical connection with the controller, the speed selector, the sensor and the program memory, for receiving the selected speed signal and generating a speed control signal to the controller signifying the selected speed for the controller, and for receiving the monitor signal and outputting a display signal; a display in electrical communication with the micropro
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 12, 1999
    Date of Patent: October 24, 2000
    Assignee: Fairway Medical Technologies, Inc.
    Inventor: James W. Meador
  • Patent number: 6137417
    Abstract: A warning device configured for removable mounting in combination with a high pressure gas cylinder and a regulator used to regulate the high pressure gas supplied by the cylinder. The device compression mounts between the regulator and tank outlet on conventional portable oxygen and gas supply systems using a specially configured manifold. The device features one or a combination of alarms, from a group including audio, visual, electronic, and remotely transmitted alarms. These alarms are activated by a pressure switch monitoring the remaining supply in the gas cylinder through a conduit the manifold. The alarm signal from the device alerts the user, or a third party monitoring the user, of current tank pressure or will sound an alarm when remaining high pressure gas inside the gas cylinder drops below a predetermined level.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 24, 1999
    Date of Patent: October 24, 2000
    Inventor: Francis McDermott
  • Patent number: 6119715
    Abstract: An automatic control system for providing pneumatic purging protection for a sealed enclosure containing electrical equipment in accordance with the National Fire Protection Association standards. The system supplies a purge gas under a pre-ordained pressure to an enclosure residing in a hazardous location. The system monitors the gas pressure to maintain the pressure within desired limits. In the event that the integrity of the sealed enclosure is disrupted, the control system disables the electrical equipment and executes a rapid-response purge cycle to re-enable the electrical equipment as quickly as possible.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 1997
    Date of Patent: September 19, 2000
    Inventor: Larry R. Russell
  • Patent number: 6121884
    Abstract: A gas flow detector (10) includes a casing (12) with an inlet (14) for connection to a gas source and an outlet (16) for connection to a gas using appliance. Between the inlet and outlet there is an internal chamber (18) which receives a sleeve (24). Gas flow from the inlet (14) to the outlet (16) around the sleeve (24) is prevented by a seal (22) which encircles the sleeve (24). A piston (38) having a magnet (44) mounted at the lower end thereof moves in the sleeve (24) from a lower position (as illustrated) to an upper position. The piston (38) drops under gravity to its lower position when there is no gas flow. It lifts to its upper position as soon as there is gas flow. A magnetically operated switch (54) is provided below the position that the magnet (44) occupies when the piston (38) is in its lower position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 10, 1998
    Date of Patent: September 19, 2000
    Assignee: Suregas (Proprietary) Limited
    Inventor: Wilhelm Eugene Ekermans
  • Patent number: 6107923
    Abstract: The invention provides a method and device for detecting the state of an air filter in a ventilation system of the passenger compartment of an automobile vehicle. The installation is put into operation in a given mode and a parameter of an air flow emitted into the passenger compartment by an air nozzle of the installation is measured by means of a measurement device filled with a collector. The measured value of the parameter is then compared with a reference value, to determine whether or not the filter needs to be replaced.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 6, 1998
    Date of Patent: August 22, 2000
    Assignee: Chausson Service
    Inventor: Eric Christol
  • Patent number: 6087945
    Abstract: A pump failure alarm system which is provided in a hydraulic working machine comprising hydraulic pumps driven by a prime mover, delivery lines joining with one another into one common delivery line on the downstream side, check valves provided in the delivery lines upstream of a point where the delivery lines join with one another, a hydraulic cylinder driven by a hydraulic fluid introduced through the common delivery line, and a hydraulic reservoir. The pump failure alarm system comprises pressure sensors for detecting respective delivery pressures of the hydraulic pumps, bypass lines having one ends connected to the delivery lines at points upstream of the check valves and the other ends connected to the hydraulic reservoir, solenoid switching valves for opening and closing the associated bypass lines, an alarm display unit for giving an alarm in correspondence to each of the hydraulic pumps, and a controller.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 8, 1999
    Date of Patent: July 11, 2000
    Assignee: Hitachi Construction Machinery Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Gen Yasuda
  • Patent number: 6081196
    Abstract: A multipurpose residential plumbing and fire sprinkler system or, more simply, a multipurpose piping system ("MPS") is a system for providing water to both domestic uses (e.g., showers, sinks, toilets) and to sprinklers for fire protection. The invention provides an apparatus and method for alarming when one or more sprinklers connected to the MPS are activated by a fire. The invention uses a water flow detector. In particular, the invention provides an apparatus and method for distinguishing typical domestic water flow from the flow caused by one or more sprinkler heads.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 17, 1998
    Date of Patent: June 27, 2000
    Inventor: Richard Jack Young
  • Patent number: 6057771
    Abstract: A line, especially for delivery of liquefied gas at ambient temperature, has two solenoid valves connected in series with an intermediate section of the line between them. In normal operation when both valves are closed, the isolated intermediate section contains liquid which absorbs heat from the atmosphere and/or from a heater, and the resulting increase in pressure is detected by a pressure sensor. If either valve fails to close fully to shut off flow, the intermediate section is not then isolated, so the absence of a signal from the sensor (the valves being set to close fully) indicates that at least one of them has not properly closed, and an alarm is given.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 22, 1998
    Date of Patent: May 2, 2000
    Assignee: Planer Products Ltd.
    Inventor: Paul Lakra
  • Patent number: 6052057
    Abstract: A system is disclosed for checking gas pressure and gas leakage in one or more gas cylinders. The system particularly detects the state of gas pressure in a gas cylinder during ion-implantation, monitors for the existence of any gas leaks in the gas cylinders, and informs the manufacture process manager of the results of checking and monitoring using a communications device. This minimizes any loss of time due to equipment stoppage and protecting workers from any poisonous gas leaks.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 8, 1997
    Date of Patent: April 18, 2000
    Assignee: Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Young-soo Yang, Kap-hyun Cha
  • Patent number: 5999106
    Abstract: Apparatus and methods for monitoring a characteristic of fluid flow through a fluid dispenser that permit adverse flow conditions to be monitored, analyzed and displayed to an operator. The monitor samples either the static or firing pressure a predetermined number of times and calculates an average static and firing pressure over the sampling period. The average pressure values are compared to high and low warning and alarm limits and warning and alarm error codes are produced as a function thereof. In addition, individual sampled values are compared to the high and low warning and alarm limits and pressure values exceeding the limits during a sampling period are counted. Warning and alarm error codes are produced as a function of the counted values exceeding predetermined count values.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 2, 1998
    Date of Patent: December 7, 1999
    Assignee: Nordson Corporation
    Inventor: Jeffrey M. Buckler
  • Patent number: 5903218
    Abstract: A wave motion detector system for a swimming pool includes a transducer responsive to positive and negative pressure changes in swimming pool water and operative to generate corresponding electrical signals. Comparators are responsive to the electrical signals, and operative to generate a crest signal while the positive pressure exceeds a predetermined positive threshold level, and a trough signal while the negative pressure exceeds a predetermined negative threshold level. A band pass filter prevents electrical signals having a frequency greater than a predetermined upper frequency, and lower than a predetermined lower frequency from passing from the transducer to the comparators. A pulse width discriminator is responsive to the crest signal and the trough signal and is operative to generate a qualified crest signal if the crest signal remains active for a first predetermined time interval, and a qualified trough signal if the trough signal remains active for a second predetermined time interval.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 10, 1998
    Date of Patent: May 11, 1999
    Assignee: Vigilant Systems, Inc.
    Inventor: Alan Nelson
  • Patent number: 5894273
    Abstract: A centrifugal blood pump driver comprises a motor housing and the housing contains a motor for rotationally driving the centrifugal blood pump and a controller operatively associated with the motor for controlling the rotational speed of the motor; a speed selector for generating a selected speed signal signifying a selected rotational speed for the motor; sensors operatively associated with the motor or controller for sensing the rotational speed of the motor and outputting a monitor signal signifying such rotational speed; program memory for storage of a program of microprocessor readable instructions; a microprocessor under program control, in electrical connection with the controller, the speed selector, the sensor and the program memory, for receiving the selected speed signal and generating a speed control signal to the controller signifying the selected speed for the controller, and for receiving the monitor signal and outputting a display signal; a display in electrical communication with the micropro
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 26, 1996
    Date of Patent: April 13, 1999
    Assignee: Fairway Medical Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: James W. Meador, Byron C. Sutherland, Joseph C. Kearns, Jr.
  • Patent number: 5850183
    Abstract: An air restriction indicating device for measuring very low ranges of filter restriction (e.g., on the order of 0.0 to 1.5 inches of H.sub.2 O or 0.0 to 0.54 psi) in a micronfilter used in vehicular heating/ventilation/air conditioning (HVAC) systems. The indicating device includes a housing that is separated into two sub-chambers by a flexible diaphragm. A indicating member is carried by the diaphragm so that the diaphragm and the indicating member move, within the housing, responsively to changes in the pressure of the air flowing in the HVAC system caused by restrictions in or clogging of the micronfilter. To facilitate reading, the indicating device also includes structure that progressively locks the diaphragm and indicating member in position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 24, 1995
    Date of Patent: December 15, 1998
    Assignee: Engineered Products Co.
    Inventor: Charles Henry Berry, III
  • Patent number: 5810063
    Abstract: In a display apparatus attachable to a filler gun of a fuel pump, a first display carrying body adapted to be fitted onto the filler gun to display a message on a message card and display information about fuel type delivered from the filler gun, and a second display carrying body releasably attachable to the first display carrying body at a rear end thereof said second display carrying body carrying message indicating that the fuel pump or filler gun is out of order.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 23, 1996
    Date of Patent: September 22, 1998
    Assignee: Alvern-Norway A/S
    Inventor: Oyvind Alvern
  • Patent number: 5808559
    Abstract: Apparatus and methods for monitoring a characteristic of fluid flow through a fluid dispenser that permit adverse flow conditions to be monitored, analyzed and displayed to an operator. The monitor samples either the static or firing pressure a predetermined number of times and calculates an average static and firing pressure over the sampling period. The average pressure values are compared to high and low warning and alarm limits and warning and alarm error codes are produced as a function thereof. In addition, individual sampled values are compared to the high and low warning and alarm limits and pressure values exceeding the limits during a sampling period are counted. Warning and alarm error codes are produced as a function of the counted values exceeding predetermined count values.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 23, 1997
    Date of Patent: September 15, 1998
    Assignee: Nordson Corporation
    Inventor: Jeffrey M. Buckler
  • Patent number: 5781116
    Abstract: A flow alarm includes a magnetic switch that is maintained open so long as catalyst flow is maintained and an air flow switch that is closed responsive to flow of air through an associated conduit. The associated conduit supplies air via a solenoid valve to a pneumatic whistle. When flow of catalyst falls below a pre-set threshhold, the magnetic switch closes completing the circuit with the solenoid valve causing the solenoid valve to open and allowing air flow to the pneumatic whistle to signal the reduction of catalyst flow.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 31, 1996
    Date of Patent: July 14, 1998
    Assignee: Graves Spray Supply, Inc.
    Inventors: Thomas A. Hedger, Scott McGehee
  • Patent number: 5764148
    Abstract: A electronic water utility monitoring system including a control box for the system positionable within the house of a user. Further provided is a first electrical line from the control box to a source of potential within the house. Associated therewith is a second electrical line from the control box to a water line for the house. Also included is a flow metering device mounted on the second electrical line to determine the rate of flow of the water within the water line. Finally, an electrical circuit is included for controlling the box. Such electric circuit has a port for allowing coupling with a conventional computer thereby allowing the storing of the rate of flow of water and further calculating the amount of water consumed over a predetermined amount of time and the price of water consumed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 6, 1997
    Date of Patent: June 9, 1998
    Inventor: Berwyn Travis Frasier
  • Patent number: 5694963
    Abstract: There is disclosed an apparatus for freeze prevention protecting an irrigation system. The response of the apparatus depends on environmental conditions. At a first temperature condition, the irrigation system is shut down. At a lower temperature condition, the system remains shut down and heat is delivered to the above ground portions of the system. In the event temperatures continue to decrease, a full drainage of the above ground portion of the irrigation system will be accomplished and alarm notification will be given.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 4, 1995
    Date of Patent: December 9, 1997
    Inventors: Paul Thomas Fredell, Brett William Floyd, Marc Jay Stein
  • Patent number: 5680109
    Abstract: A differential pressure sensor is attached to a process via a high and a low pressure impulse line. An absolute pressure sensor is also attached to each impulse line. To determine if an impulse line is blocked, a noise signal is acquired from the corresponding absolute pressure sensor. A variance of the noise signal is determined and compared to a threshold. If the variance is less than the threshold, an impulse line blockage is indicated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 21, 1996
    Date of Patent: October 21, 1997
    Assignee: The Foxboro Company
    Inventors: Justin Peter Lowe, David W. Clarke
  • Patent number: 5659295
    Abstract: A pressure indicating device (30) for providing an indication of the pressure that existed within a fluid filled pressure vessel (22) just prior to depressurization of the pressure vessel. The device comprises: a housing (102); a piston (130) for temporarily sealing an open end of the housing and outwardly movable in response to a pressure differential not less than a predetermined level generated subsequent to the depressurization of the pressure vessel; and a sheer disk (150) including a first part (160) attached to an end of the piston and a second part (162) attached to an end of the housing (102).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 11, 1995
    Date of Patent: August 19, 1997
    Assignee: Bendix-Atlantic Inflator Company
    Inventors: Donald Renfroe, Steven L. Ludeke, James Rose, David A. Bilbrey
  • Patent number: 5657001
    Abstract: A sensor body has an orifice forming a central fluid flow passage therethrough and supports a thin conducting frangible rod, such as graphite, across the central fluid flow passage. The graphite rod and connectors are insulated from the body when the body is made from a conducting material such as metal. When the graphite rod is broken by fluid flow, a circuit is broken and an alarm condition is created.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 16, 1996
    Date of Patent: August 12, 1997
    Assignee: Oklahoma Safety Equipment Company
    Inventor: Alan T. Wilson
  • Patent number: 5640149
    Abstract: On method of sensing a ventilation failure measures a ventilation cycle and if the pressure is not maintained throughout the whole of an inspiration period above the setting for the low datum point 10 an alarm is signaled. A normal ventilation cycle is shown in FIG. 1(a) with the pressure over the ventilation cycle indicated by curve 14, low pressure datum 10 and the high pressure datum 12. The inspiration period 16 occurs for a given length of the cycle 14. When the tube feeding air to the patient is disconnected (whether wholly or partially) the ventilation cycle is as shown in FIG. 1(b). Inspiration peak 18 is now much lower and pressure drops rapidly, once the given volume has been delivered, from peak 18 to below set low pressure datum 10 (before termination of period 16). The peak 18 and the slope of the curve as indicated at 20 will vary depending upon the circumstances experienced. Another method measures the period between excursions of the pressure above a given level above datum 10.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 31, 1994
    Date of Patent: June 17, 1997
    Assignee: Ulco Engineering Pty. Ltd.
    Inventor: Duncan Campbell
  • Patent number: 5631634
    Abstract: A pressure sensor assembly includes a disk entirely of metal and having a plurality of circumferentially spaced petals, separated by a plurality of radially extending slots. The slots extend from the periphery of the disk to a position near the center. However, the disks are in electrical communication with one another. A pair of wire leads are respectively placed at terminals on two separate spaced-apart disks with the opposite end portion of the leads connected to an alarm monitor. The disk body can be used in low or high temperature applications and is corrosion resistant and preferably entirely metallic (for example, stainless steel). The disk body is designed to be installed between standard pipe flanges, between a flange and a rupture disk holder, or in a holder that is used as, or located downstream of, a rupture disk or similar device. The device is designed to cause a discontinuity (open circuit) in an electrical circuit as a result of fluid flow through the pipe.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 11, 1995
    Date of Patent: May 20, 1997
    Assignee: Oklahoma Safety Equipment Co.
    Inventor: John Strelow
  • Patent number: 5631632
    Abstract: The invention is directed to a pressure monitoring system for monitoring a hydraulic pressure which is supplied from a fluid pump and accumulated in an accumulator. The pressure monitoring system includes an electric motor which drives the fluid pump to supply the hydraulic pressure in substantially linear proportion to a current fed to the motor, a current detection device which detects the current fed to the motor, and a pressure estimation device which estimates the hydraulic pressure accumulated in the accumulator in response to the current detected by the current detection device. A malfunction detection device may be provided for detecting a malfunction on the basis of the output of the pressure estimation device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 27, 1996
    Date of Patent: May 20, 1997
    Assignee: Aisin Seiki Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Hiroshi Nakashima, Toshiaki Hamada, Tadashi Terazawa, Yuichiro Sakakibara
  • Patent number: 5612677
    Abstract: A system to monitor the temperature of an integrated circuit and to dissipate heat generated thereby includes a heat sink to overlie the integrated circuit. A temperature sensor is located on the heat sink to detect the temperature adjacent the integrated circuit. Temperature signal conditioning circuitry is responsive to the temperature sensor and generates a temperature alarm signal when the temperature at the integrated circuit reaches a threshold level. A fan overlies the heat sink and draws air across and then away from the heat sink to cool it. A pressure transducer is mounted on the fan and detects air flow through the fan. Pressure signal conditioning circuitry is responsive to the pressure transducer and generates a pressure alarm signal when the air flow through the fan falls below a threshold level. Alarms are triggered by the temperature and pressure alarm signals to warn a user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 29, 1995
    Date of Patent: March 18, 1997
    Inventor: Jean-Jerome C. Baudry
  • Patent number: 5563584
    Abstract: A liquid level sensing and monitoring system for a medical fluid infusion system has an IV spike with a pressure sensor which contacts fluid in an infusion container such as an IV bag or bottle. When an adequate amount of fluid is in the container, the resulting pressure on the sensor is at a relatively high level; however, when the fluid reservoir is nearly depleted, the pressure on the sensor falls to a low level, thereby activating the sensor and associated control circuitry which operates an alarm or warning indicator. In lieu of the pressure sensor, the device may use a resistive or capacitive sensor. When the liquid level falls below the electrical sensor, its state changes, and the alarm circuitry is activated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 15, 1993
    Date of Patent: October 8, 1996
    Assignee: The Johns Hopkins University
    Inventors: R. Scott Rader, Eric H. Schallen, Alexander C. Walsh, Carl C. Awh, Eugene de Juan
  • Patent number: 5554976
    Abstract: An abnormality detecting apparatus constantly monitors even a slight amount of gas which has leaked by checking a gas supply pipe when it is determined that the pressure regulating function of a pressure regulator is abnormal. The abnormality detecting apparatus detects an abnormality of the regulated pressure of a pressure regulator appropriately by comparing the regulated pressure with a predetermined low value of a pressure regulating range when the gas flow rate is high and with a predetermined high value of a pressure regulating range when the gas flow rate is low.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 5, 1993
    Date of Patent: September 10, 1996
    Assignee: Matsushita Electric Industrial Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Shinji Miyauchi, Shinichi Nakane, Kazutaka Asano, Yoshio Horiike, Makoto Tsuboi
  • Patent number: 5481260
    Abstract: Apparatus and methods for monitoring a characteristic of fluid flow through a fluid dispenser that permit adverse flow conditions to be monitored, analyzed and displayed to an operator. The monitor samples either the static or firing pressure a predetermined number of times and calculates an average static and firing pressure over the sampling period. The average pressure values are compared to high and low warning and alarm limits and warning and alarm error codes are produced as a function thereof. In addition, individual sampled values are compared to the high and low warning and alarm limits and pressure values exceeding the limits during a sampling period are counted. Warning and alarm error codes are produced as a function of the counted values exceeding predetermined count values.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 28, 1994
    Date of Patent: January 2, 1996
    Assignee: Nordson Corporation
    Inventors: Jeffrey M. Buckler, Thomas A. Loparo, Joseph C. Waryu
  • Patent number: 5446449
    Abstract: A monitoring system comprising at least, a first and a second indicator unit each associated with at least one fluid distribution line and each including at least two series of indicators, each series being associated with at least one pick-up of the magnitude of a fluid which circulates in a distribution line and comprising at least two indicator lights for the thresholds of the magnitude, wherein the thresholds may be adjusted by a programming unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 18, 1993
    Date of Patent: August 29, 1995
    Assignee: Taema
    Inventors: Gerard Lhomer, Gilbert Theurant
  • Patent number: 5351725
    Abstract: A system for continuously monitoring fills of liquid such as fuel oil in a tank, and the condition of the liquid. A dual in-line air bell structure senses fluid pressure at upper and lower locations inside the tank, the locations being spaced a known distance apart from one another in a normal direction relative to the tank. Processing circuitry responsive to the fluid pressures obtained via the air bell structure, determines quantities of liquid contained in the tank at certain times and produces corresponding outputs such as gallons of liquid delivered to the tank at each of a number of delivery times, and total gallons of liquid in the tank as the liquid is consumed. The air bell structure is formed with upper and lower air bell sections joined end-to-end along a common axis. Each of the air bell sections includes at least one aperture in its wall to define a cross-section through the air bell section.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 1, 1993
    Date of Patent: October 4, 1994
    Assignee: Optimum Applied Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: David B. Suthergreen, Fredrick W. Cotton, Richard M. Zingel
  • Patent number: 5349334
    Abstract: A new and improved wind velocity signalling apparatus includes a first wind velocity sensing and signalling assembly which is connected to a support structure (such as a gabled roof) and which senses and signals the occurrence of wind of a predetermined velocity. An alarm assembly sounds an alarm upon receiving a signal from the first wind velocity sensing and signalling assembly upon occurrence of the predetermined wind velocity. The first wind velocity sensing and signalling assembly includes a wind scoop assembly for receiving wind, a wind vane fixed onto the wind scoop assembly for directing the wind scoop assembly into the wind, and a bearing assembly connected between the wind scoop assembly and the roof. A wind velocity sensor assembly receives wind pressure from wind scooped up by the wind scoop assembly and senses a predetermined wind velocity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 14, 1993
    Date of Patent: September 20, 1994
    Inventor: Ronald W. Parson
  • Patent number: 5347264
    Abstract: The method and apparatus relates to a procedure and an arrangement for minimizing the risk of the undesired escape of water from pipe systems and units connected thereto in premises and similar surroundings by the use of a control or valve arrangement arranged at the point of connection of the pipe system to the external supply pipe and capable of regulation by means of an adjuster device. A link is provided between the valve arrangement and the device for detecting the presence or movement of individuals inside the premises, and the operation is such that, in the event of the detection of presence or movement, the valve is kept open so as to permit water to enter the pipe system or network, whereas the valve is kept closed in the absence of such detection.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 8, 1993
    Date of Patent: September 13, 1994
    Assignee: RB Larmprodukter AB
    Inventor: Mats Bjorkman