Gas Patents (Class 340/632)
  • Publication number: 20080198007
    Abstract: A wireless-controlled detecting device includes a one-way waterproof-ventilating outer layer installed therein with a signal detector provided with a programmable IC and a sensor module. The programmable IC and the sensor module are connected and fixed in position by a soft PCB that is connected with a thin power supply unit. The wirelessly controlled detecting device is further installed with a wireless transmitter and a wireless receiver for receiving the result of detection, and the wireless signal receiver is connected with a signal-indicating device for indicating the result of detection by means of lamplight, sounds, characters and vibration. The detection data can be stored in a storage device for a user to be controlled and managed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 16, 2007
    Publication date: August 21, 2008
    Inventor: Tu Chi-Jung
  • Publication number: 20080198027
    Abstract: The subject invention relates to a new alarm which is based on using a quarternary tunable Mid-IR laser to measure both particles and gas at the same time. The measurement is done within an area of which the gas of interest will absorb the Mid-IR radiation. By widely tuning the emission wavelength of the laser, several wavelengths can be measured in order to accurately find both gas composition and particle density with one laser based sensor. We tested a new device which use radiation between 2.27 ?m and 2.316 ?m. Methane gas reduces intensity of the radiation at certain wavelengths in this device, while particles/fog reduce intensity for all wavelengths. In this case, fog should not trigger an alarm, while methane leaks should. This can also be applied for CO and smoke in which one sensor will measure both parameters to sound an alarm instead of just one parameter.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 26, 2006
    Publication date: August 21, 2008
    Applicant: INTOPTO AS
    Inventor: Renato Bugge
  • Patent number: 7408473
    Abstract: A gas detector and method of operating the gas detector that includes a carbon monoxide sensor and a processor. The carbon monoxide sensor senses an environmental concentration of carbon monoxide and provides the sensed value to the processor. Upon receiving the value of the carbon monoxide level (COppm), the processor determines an alarm threshold level based upon the COppm level. Once the alarm threshold level is determined, the processor calculates the COHb percentage for the current COppm reading based upon a derived, fixed point equation. The processor activates an audible/visual indicator when the sensed COHb percentage exceeds the alarm threshold.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 24, 2006
    Date of Patent: August 5, 2008
    Assignee: Maple Chase Company
    Inventors: Charles D. Adkins, John G. Chapman, Timothy D. Kaiser
  • Publication number: 20080180261
    Abstract: The Carbon Monoxide and Explosive Gas Shut Off System is an invention that will shut off the source of carbon monoxide and explosive gas at the time it is first detected by the carbon monoxide and explosive gas detector. This will save lives.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 26, 2007
    Publication date: July 31, 2008
    Inventor: Harold Shirlee
  • Publication number: 20080180260
    Abstract: The Carbon Monoxide and Explosive Gas Shut Off System is an invention that will shut off the source of carbon monoxide and explosive gas.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 29, 2007
    Publication date: July 31, 2008
    Inventor: Harold Shirlee
  • Publication number: 20080180258
    Abstract: Regional physical information can be entered along with automatically sensed ambient condition information into regional monitoring system. Alarm decision processing can be adjusted in accordance therewith.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 26, 2007
    Publication date: July 31, 2008
    Inventors: Scott R. Lang, Timothy A. Rauworth
  • Publication number: 20080182215
    Abstract: A safety system for connection to a toxic gas detector and a toxic gas producing engine, and its operating method, includes an interrupt device coupled to connections to the detector and the engine. The interrupt device includes a toxic gas signal detecting circuit and a circuit for permitting starting of the engine. The detecting circuit activates the permitting circuit if the toxic gas signal represents a toxic gas concentration below a predetermined level. In one embodiment, the permitting circuit is activated if the safety system is healthy and fully functional. Similarly, a safety system for connection to a toxic gas detector and a toxic gas supply, and its operating method, includes an interrupt device coupled to connections to the detector and the toxic gas supply. The interrupt device includes a toxic gas signal detecting circuit and a circuit for permitting of flow from the toxic gas supply.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 31, 2007
    Publication date: July 31, 2008
    Inventor: Alberto Sid
  • Publication number: 20080173817
    Abstract: The present invention provides very small low cost apparatus and method for determining the concentration and/or hazard from a target gas by means of optically monitoring one or more sensors that responds to carbon monoxide. The apparatus comprises a photon source optically coupled to the sensor and the photon intensity passing through the sensor is quantified by one or more photodiode(s) in a system, so that the photon flux is a function of at least one sensor's response to the target gas, e.g., transmits light through the sensor to the photodiode. The photocurrent from the photodiode is converted to a sensor reading value proportional to the optical characteristics of the sensors and is loaded into a microprocessor or other logic circuit. In the microprocessor, the sensor readings may be differentiated to determine the rate of change of the sensor readings and the total photons absorbed value may be used to calculated the CO concentration.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 13, 2007
    Publication date: July 24, 2008
    Inventors: Mark K. Goldstein, Michelle S. Oum
  • Patent number: 7403128
    Abstract: An adverse condition detector that records historical data concerning the operation of the detector such that the detector can be interrogated by a technician. The microprocessor of the adverse condition detector monitors for alarm conditions and other important information related to the operation of the detector. Upon identifying an important characteristic of the detector operation, the microprocessor time stamps the information and stores the information within memory of the microprocessor. The detector includes an interface pad that is accessible from the exterior of the detector such that a technician can access the interface pad without removing the detector housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 13, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 22, 2008
    Assignee: Maple Chase Company
    Inventors: Rodney W. Scuka, Timothy D. Kaiser, Paul J. Baker
  • Publication number: 20080169934
    Abstract: A portable apparatus is provided for detecting the presence in a local atmosphere of gases that are hazardous to the health of humans and animals, the detector providing a warning to the operator of the apparatus of the presence of such gases.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 10, 2007
    Publication date: July 17, 2008
    Inventors: Steve Lang, Barry Siskind
  • Patent number: 7397361
    Abstract: A device is described for a safety system on an installation in connection with the operation of a habitat (10) in which an object that is carrying out work which results in heat generation such as flames, sparks and the like, is isolated from the surroundings, and where an overpressure of air is set up in the habitat (10) to prevent ingress of flammable gases, and comprising systems for supply of electricity and overpressure air to the equipment inside the habitat, and also an alarm system which can warn of irregularities and the like.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 30, 2003
    Date of Patent: July 8, 2008
    Assignee: STS Stillasservice
    Inventor: Nils Paulsen
  • Patent number: 7397369
    Abstract: A programmable interface module includes a linear power regulator to control and provide power to interfaced components on an as needed basis. The interface module is implemented in, for example, a threat sensor pack and multiplexed to a plurality of sensor modules. In a first mode, the linear voltage regulator provides a relatively small amount of power which allows a sensor module to output a signal responsive to detecting an environmental condition (e.g., gamma or x-ray radiation, extreme temperatures, etc.). The interface module can switch the linear voltage regulator to a second mode in which the linear voltage regulator ramps up the amount of power provided to a detecting sensor module. The sensor module can then provide a threat level indicative of a concentration or intensity of the environmental condition. If the threat level surpasses a predetermined threshold, the senor pack can output a threat signal to security server.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 8, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 8, 2008
    Assignee: FTC - Forward Threat Control LLC
    Inventors: Francis S. Zajac, Tony Bachta, James Peverill
  • Publication number: 20080150740
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a method of processing an analog sensor signal, the analog sensor signal being amplified by an operational amplifier. The amplified analog sensor signal is measured and compared with a threshold value. A DC voltage is generated as a function of a difference between the amplified analog sensor signal and the threshold value and a composite signal is formed from the analog sensor signal and the DC voltage. The composite signal is amplified and an output signal is output.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 13, 2007
    Publication date: June 26, 2008
    Inventors: Rudi Minuth, Kuno Straub
  • Publication number: 20080155064
    Abstract: A monitoring system includes one or more monitoring devices, positioned in sewer manholes, storm drains, etc., and a remote monitoring station that communicates wirelessly therewith. The monitoring device may be an integrated unit, including sensors, a two-way telemetry unit, a power supply, a processor, and supporting hardware, all located in an enclosed, waterproof housing. The monitoring device is placed within a manhole cavity to obtain depth (e.g., water level) measurements, images, and other data, and report the measurements back to the remote monitoring station, which analyzes the data and responds to alert messages when a dangerous water level is detected. An additional sensor may monitor the manhole cover for security purposes. A distributed mesh network of wireless nodes may be used to relay communications from the monitoring devices along alternative paths, through bridge nodes that may connect to a public wireless or cellular network.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 21, 2007
    Publication date: June 26, 2008
    Applicant: AEROMESH CORPORATION
    Inventors: Roy KOSUGE, Pat CRANE, Alan PITTMAN, John MARIS
  • Publication number: 20080136589
    Abstract: A multi-function replica traffic light device is disclosed. The device includes a plurality of lights of different colors aligned in a direction. The device also includes at least two selected from the group consisting of a motion detector, a timer, an audio detector, a gas detector, a smoke detector, and a visible light detector, each of which is configured to generate a signal. The device further includes a processor configured to turn on and off the plurality of lights in response to the signal.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 12, 2006
    Publication date: June 12, 2008
    Inventor: Scott F. Baird
  • Publication number: 20080122641
    Abstract: A sensor detects one or more hazardous materials, such as by measuring the concentration of one or more hazardous gasses. The sensor or an external system can also determine a location of the sensor. This location can be associated with the measured data from the sensor at the external system or at the sensor. The location could be determined at the sensor using GPS or RFID. The location could be determined at the external system using RFID. The external system can use the measured data and the location information to perform a wide variety of tasks, such as mapping hazardous materials in a processing or other environment or identifying trends in the concentration of the hazardous materials.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 29, 2006
    Publication date: May 29, 2008
    Applicant: Honeywell International Inc.
    Inventor: Soroush Amidi
  • Patent number: 7378976
    Abstract: This invention relates to providing convenient night and pathway lighting this is integrated into a detector unit. Incorporating the illumination features into the detector unit provides the possibility to simplify the installation, utilize the backup battery power of the detector such that the illumination is provided even in a power outage, and further to allow illumination options that are directly linked to alarm events determined by the detector.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 23, 2005
    Date of Patent: May 27, 2008
    Inventor: David Joseph August Paterno
  • Publication number: 20080117067
    Abstract: A medical gas alarm system for use in a healthcare facility having a medical gas system and having a network of computer devices is provided. The alarm system includes at least one area alarm controller adapted to receive a first signal indicative of a condition of a first portion of the medical gas system. The area alarm controller is adapted to communicate with the network. The alarm system also includes at least one master alarm controller adapted to receive a second signal indicative of a condition of a second portion of the medical gas system. The master alarm controller is adapted to communicate with the network. The area alarm controller is adapted to communicate with the master alarm controller through the network.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 20, 2006
    Publication date: May 22, 2008
    Inventors: Joseph H. Abel, William C. Bohlinger, Stanton H. Breitlow, Edward W. Catton, Thomas J. Dubisar, James P. Hentges, Richard E. Hoffman, William J. Kaht, Nick D. LaBare, Robert O. Moran, Thomas R. Pfingsten, Phillip B. Plyler, John M. Sharer, John B. Wilker, Dale T. Wolfe
  • Publication number: 20080117066
    Abstract: Gas monitoring apparatus comprises a sensor module and an associated display module which can be physically connected together or separated. The sensor module contains gas sensors and is used to detect the concentration of gas, for example in a mine working. The sensor module transmits readings wirelessly to the display module, which includes a display to show the reading. Each sensor unit can communicate with multiple display units and vice versa.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 8, 2004
    Publication date: May 22, 2008
    Applicant: SCHAUENBURG FLEXADUX (PTY) LTD
    Inventors: Valery Alexandrovich Kononov, Mathys Johannes De Beer
  • Patent number: 7372370
    Abstract: An alarm system (100) to wake sleeping occupants in the event of an emergency has a receiver (105) for detecting a warning signal (130) emitted from an external device (125), such as a smoke or carbon monoxide detector. A processor (11) compares the received warning signal to a predetermined signal and, if they correspond, then a transmitter (115) transmits an alarm (135). The predetermined signal can be preprogrammed or it can be learned by alarm system. The alarm is at least one of an audible, visual, vibratory, and/or olfactory communication. A customized audible communication in a voice familiar to the occupants can be recorded and stored in the alarm system. In addition, the system may provide different alarms before and after motion is detected.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 14, 2006
    Date of Patent: May 13, 2008
    Assignee: Smart Safety Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Larry W. Stults, Brent E. Routman, Jeremy P. Shapiro, Nicholas P. Johns
  • Publication number: 20080106437
    Abstract: According to one embodiment, a detection system may include at least one sensor located in an enclosable space, each sensor being configured to detect at least one environmental feature and provide a corresponding at least one environmental feature signal; means for processing the at least one environmental feature signal and providing at least one processed feature signal, the at least one processed feature signal corresponding to a transformed at least one environmental feature signal; a hosted function configured to provide instructions to the processing means, the hosted function comprising a computational algorithm adapted to perform numerical transformation operations based on the at least one environmental feature signal, the hosted function being configured to provide a map image based on the at least one processed feature signal; and a means for displaying the map image.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 2, 2006
    Publication date: May 8, 2008
    Inventors: Wei Zhang, Chao-Hsin Lin
  • Patent number: 7369057
    Abstract: A generator monitoring system and method includes a plurality of sensors (12) disposed within a generator enclosure (18) to sense health conditions of a generator (10) housed within the enclosure. The sensors are interconnected to provide a single communication path (14) for allowing communication with the plurality of sensors. A monitoring device (16) outside the generator enclosure receives health condition information from each of the plurality of sensors via the single communication path. A sensor may be disposed within the generator enclosure to detect particulates emitted from a monitored portion (e.g., 52) of the generator housed within the enclosure. A sensor may be disposed proximate a bus bar connection (130) of the generator to sense a health condition of the bus bar connection and generate corresponding health condition information provided to the monitoring device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 4, 2005
    Date of Patent: May 6, 2008
    Assignee: Siemens Power Generation, Inc.
    Inventors: Michael Twerdochlib, David Bateman
  • Patent number: 7365648
    Abstract: A fire alarm for an installation via a housing that is flush with the ceiling, having at least one light source arranged in the housing and at least one light receiver arranged in the housing, as well as a shutter disk, which seals the housing. To prevent the spreading of stray light between the light source and the light receiver via the shutter disk, a shield, for example, is provided in the shutter disk to suppress or absorb stray light.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 14, 2004
    Date of Patent: April 29, 2008
    Assignee: Robert Bosch GmbH
    Inventors: Bernd Siber, Stefan Sittenauer, Gottfried Ernst, Ulrich Oppelt
  • Publication number: 20080079599
    Abstract: A detector with voice output is described. In various embodiments, the detector comprises a detection circuit that detects a substance, a recording circuit that records a sound in a memory, and a playback circuit that retrieves the recorded sound from memory and emits the recorded sound via a speaker when the detection circuit detects the substance. The recorded sound can be a human voice.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 2, 2006
    Publication date: April 3, 2008
    Inventor: Rajiv Partha Sarathy
  • Publication number: 20080076346
    Abstract: An arrangement for use in an occupancy-based ventilation system includes a plurality of CO2 sensors and a processing circuit. The plurality of CO2 sensors are disbursed throughout a plurality of spaces in a building. The processing circuit is operably coupled to receive information representative of CO2 measurements generated by the plurality of CO2 sensors. The processing circuit is operable to determine a value corresponding to occupancy, based on information from the CO2 sensors, and to control the flow of fresh supply air into the building ventilation system based on the determined value.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 4, 2007
    Publication date: March 27, 2008
    Inventor: Osman Ahmed
  • Publication number: 20080068190
    Abstract: A communication apparatus is provided. The communication apparatus includes a control module, a communication module, and an alcohol-vapor-concentration sensor. The communication is electrically connected with the control module. The alcohol-vapor-concentration sensor is electrically connected with the control module to detect and deliver an alcohol vapor concentration value to the control module. Therefore, it is convenient for users to perform an alcohol vapor concentration detection.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 9, 2007
    Publication date: March 20, 2008
    Applicant: ASUSTEK COMPUTER INC.
    Inventor: Ruoh-Wen Chin
  • Patent number: 7345590
    Abstract: In a hydrogen gas station where a great number of sensors are installed, in case hydrogen leakage occurs, sensors in the vicinity of the leakage location start to transmit a warning to an access point all at once. This causes channel capacity saturation and failure to transmit a warning to the access point. Nodes and the access point are connected to each other by an uplink channel and a downlink channel. The access point detects congested/uncongested status of the uplink channel by using a wireless transmitter module and notifies the nodes of the congested/uncongested status of the channel by means for transmitting onto the downlink channel. Meanwhile, each node controls its transmission operation, according to the hydrogen concentration level detected by its hydrogen sensor and the uplink channel congested/uncongested status notified from the access point. In this way, channel overflow due to access congestion in case of hydrogen leakage can be prevented.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 15, 2005
    Date of Patent: March 18, 2008
    Assignee: Hitachi, Ltd.
    Inventors: Sadaki Nakano, Koichi Yokosawa, Yasushi Goto
  • Patent number: 7342505
    Abstract: A first gas sensing element is provided in a first position to measure a concentration of a gas continuously, and a second sensing element is provided in a second position to measure the concentration of the gas intermittently. The second position is in close proximity to the first position. A deterioration determination unit is connected with the first and second sensing elements to make a determination as to whether the first sensing element becomes deteriorated, by comparing output values from the first and second sensing elements. A power controller is configured to supply the second sensing element with electric power throughout waiting periods during which the second sensing element stops measuring the concentration of the gas, and an amount of the electric power supplied throughout waiting periods is smaller than that supplied throughout operating periods during which the second sensing element continuously measures the concentration of the gas.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 17, 2005
    Date of Patent: March 11, 2008
    Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Takashi Sasaki, Hidetoshi Oishi, Takashi Saito, Akihiro Suzuki
  • Publication number: 20080048853
    Abstract: A backdraft detector incorporates at least one oxygen sensor in combination with a flow sensor. Both sensors are coupled to control circuitry which evaluates sensed oxygen levels of a flowing sample being monitored by the flow sensor.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 23, 2006
    Publication date: February 28, 2008
    Inventors: Jonathan W. Leach, Charles T. Pearson
  • Patent number: 7336191
    Abstract: A gas-measuring system is provided that is suitable for both mobile and stationary use. A mobile measuring device (2) with sensors (4, 5, 6, 7) for detecting gas concentrations and a base station (3) are provided for this purpose. The mobile measuring device (2) is inserted into a holder (31) of the base station (3) and the operating functions to the measuring device (2) are now switched over to the base station (3).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 19, 2006
    Date of Patent: February 26, 2008
    Assignee: Dräger Safety AG & Co. KGaA
    Inventors: Ralf Drews, Ingo Pooch
  • Publication number: 20080042859
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to a ventilation control device having a portable housing capable of being selectively positioned in various locations in a space such as a room, vehicle compartment or any other area where people or animals may be located. The ventilation control device has a gas detection portion within the portable housing capable of sensing the presence of a specified gas or gasses. A transmitter is also located within the portable housing and operably engaged to the gas detection portion for transmitting a ventilation signal. A power source is located within said portable housing for energizing said transmitter. The power source can be an independent power source such as a battery or a connector such as plug for connecting to power outside of the portable housing or both. A connection portion is located on the portable housing for removably connecting the portable housing at a user specified location.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 10, 2006
    Publication date: February 21, 2008
    Inventors: Jennifer E. Dufour, William T. Dufour
  • Patent number: 7331852
    Abstract: A totally integrated ventilation system is contained in the outside air inlet stream. The system samples and controls ventilation airflow as it enters a structure. An air valve connecting the outside air inlet stream to the return plenum is controlled by a valve positioning device and a processor that monitors sensors located in the outside air inlet stream, air quality data provided by a telecommunications link and the HVAC system control signals. The air quality data includes locally broadcast air pollution data or air quality alert data related to accidents or terrorist attacks. The processor and valve positioning device simultaneously control a separate pressure relief valve that allows contaminated air to be exhausted from the structure. An alternate configuration uses a supplemental fan to introduce the outside air inlet stream directly into the structure where HVAC systems are not used.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 12, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2008
    Inventors: George D. Ezell, Lynn B. Heitman
  • Patent number: 7319403
    Abstract: The present invention provides a device and method for automatically reporting and determining the geographic location of potential carbon monoxide emergencies utilizing wireless E-911 location systems. The combination carbon monoxide and wireless E-911 location alarm in its main device embodiment comprises a self-contained carbon monoxide alarm interfaced with a cellular transceiver, which operates in existing wireless E-911 location systems. The cellular transceiver is a cellular processor with integrated memory for storing emergency identification data for automated carbon monoxide emergency incident reporting to 911 public safety answering point operators.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 2, 2005
    Date of Patent: January 15, 2008
    Inventors: Noel Woodard, Jon Woodard
  • Patent number: 7312714
    Abstract: An ambient condition detector includes a time delay function whereby a user initiates a functionality test of the detector and has time to move away from the vicinity of the detector before a potentially hearing damaging, audible report is issued from the detector under test. Multiple ways to set the time delay interval are included in the various embodiments. The sensors of the ambient condition detector may include fire sensors, smoke sensors, gas sensors, motion sensors, vibration sensors and multiple combinations of these sensors.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 24, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 25, 2007
    Inventor: Gary Jay Morris
  • Publication number: 20070290870
    Abstract: A carbon monoxide detector and method for installing a carbon monoxide detector. The carbon monoxide detector is capable of being hardwired into an installed wall electrical outlet box without reduction of the number of available electrical receptacles.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 16, 2006
    Publication date: December 20, 2007
    Inventor: William Normand
  • Patent number: 7310047
    Abstract: A hazardous gases and wind direction sensor includes a housing having a hazardous gas sensor. The gas sensor sends an output signal to a transmitter at a predetermined frequency upon detecting a hazardous gas. Wind detection is provided by eight LEDs aligned with eight corresponding photocells disposed in the housing, where each photocell represents a topographical direction and is adapted to provide an output signal associated with a particular wind direction at a predetermined frequency. A disk is coupled to a rotatable shaft in the housing and positioned between the LEDs and photocells. The shaft is coupled to a wind direction indicator such as a windsock. The disk has a slot sized to allow light to pass from one of the LEDs to its corresponding photocell, which sends an output signal to enable a switching circuit in the transmitter. The switching circuit enables the output signal at a predetermined frequency to be transmitted to a receiver.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 14, 2005
    Date of Patent: December 18, 2007
    Assignee: Saudi Arabian Oil Company
    Inventor: Fahad Al-Wehebi
  • Publication number: 20070285265
    Abstract: A smoke detector system having a base unit and multiple satellite units is provided. The base unit detects various hazards, i.e., smoke or carbon monoxide, and broadcasts a radio frequency signal to activate warning devices on the various satellite units. The satellite units include a radio frequency receiver to receive the signal broadcasted by the base unit. The warning devices include a laser cannon, a speaker, a strobe light, and a wireless camera separately or in combination with other warning devices. Alternatively, each base unit may include one or more of the warning devices and a radio frequency receiver, and each satellite unit may include the detection devices and a radio frequency transmitter. In this way, each device in the system may activate warning devices in each other device in the system when a hazard is detected.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 7, 2006
    Publication date: December 13, 2007
    Inventor: Samuel Lax
  • Publication number: 20070279213
    Abstract: A multi-function relay module for use with a series of hazardous condition detectors that are interconnected by an interconnect line. The relay module is positioned between the interconnected hazardous condition detectors and one or more auxiliary devices such that the relay module can selectively activate each of the auxiliary devices. The relay module receives the interconnect signal and determines whether the interconnect signal is indicating a first sensed condition or a second sensed condition. A selection signal having multiple states is received by the control unit. The control unit is programmed to respond to the type of sensed condition indicated by the interconnect signal based upon the state of the selection signal. Thus, the relay module can selectively respond to either the first sensed condition, the second sensed condition or either of the first or second sensed conditions.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 2, 2006
    Publication date: December 6, 2007
    Inventors: Kirby W. Cartwright, Scott Young
  • Publication number: 20070273540
    Abstract: A gas sensor system includes a gas sensor capable of producing an output signal responsive to the concentration of a specific gas component in measurement gas, a gas concentration determination device that makes electrical connections to the gas sensor and determines the concentration of the specific gas component according to the output signal of the gas sensor, a failure detection device that detects a potential failure in any one of the electrical connections, a sensor temperature determination device that judges whether the gas sensor has been cooled to a predetermined temperature or lower with reference to a sensor temperature parameter and a failure identification device that, when the gas sensor has been cooled to the predetermined temperature or lower, outputs a diagnosis signal to the gas sensor, measures potentials of the electrical connections under the diagnosis signal and identifies in which of the electrical connections the potential failure is occurring based on the measured potentials.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 15, 2007
    Publication date: November 29, 2007
    Applicant: NGK SPARK PLUG CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Yoshinori Inoue, Hiroshi Inagaki, Tomonori Uemura
  • Patent number: 7301466
    Abstract: A side turn signal light that flashes during operation is disposed on a vehicle body side surface of a vehicle. Further, a camera that images a vehicle side zone that includes the side turn signal light in a section thereof, and a near-infrared LED for night-time illumination are respectively housed in a door mirror. A coating that allows visible light component to pass through while reducing near-infrared component is applied to a lamp bulb of the side turn signal light. Alternatively, a film that allows visible light component to pass through while reducing near-infared component is applied to a lens of the side turn signal light.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 29, 2004
    Date of Patent: November 27, 2007
    Assignee: Toyota Jidosha Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventor: Goro Asai
  • Patent number: 7296459
    Abstract: The present invention discloses a refrigerator for storing foods at a low temperature. An avatar refrigerator and a method for sensing contamination of the same receive measurement values from various sensors installed around the refrigerator in a contamination sensing mode, decide kinds and degrees of contamination in each position by analyzing the measurement values of the sensors by a control means, decide contamination solving methods, and display the kinds and degrees of contamination in each position and the contamination solving methods through a display means formed at the refrigerator door side with avatars. As a result, the avatar refrigerator and the method for sensing contamination of the same maintain the clean air environment and improve health by notifying the air contamination in the peripheral regions of the refrigerator installed at the center of the residential space and the contamination solving methods as well as freshly maintain the foods by storing the foods at a low temperature.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 23, 2006
    Date of Patent: November 20, 2007
    Assignee: LG Electronics Inc.
    Inventors: Ku-Young Son, Eun-Jeong Kim, Eun-Young Park
  • Patent number: 7271721
    Abstract: An information transmission system comprising a conductor operable to carry a desired information signal. A first tube substantially surrounds the conductor and a second tube substantially surrounds the first tube to define a substantially fluid-tight chamber therebetween. In another aspect, the invention provides an information transmission system suited to transmit information between a first electronic device and a second electronic device located a distance from the first electronic device. The system includes an information transmission line that connects to the first electronic device and the second electronic device. A conduit surrounds at least a portion of the information transmission line. The conduit defines a substantially fluid-tight chamber. A quantity of fluid is disposed within the chamber and a sensor is positioned to measure a parameter of the quantity of fluid. An indicator is operable to signal a breach condition in response to the measured parameter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 28, 2004
    Date of Patent: September 18, 2007
    Assignee: Lockheed Martin Corporation
    Inventors: James Delahanty, John W. Ramsay, James D. Toher, Donald B. Wold
  • Patent number: 7269962
    Abstract: A cooling medium compressor arrangement is comprised of a compressor, a control mechanism electrically connected with the compressor, and a gas sensor, and the safety of the arrangement is improved by arranging the control mechanism and the gas sensor in a common housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 3, 2004
    Date of Patent: September 18, 2007
    Assignee: Danfoss Compressors GmbH
    Inventor: Ole Schebel Bachmann
  • Patent number: 7271720
    Abstract: Homeland Intelligence Systems Technology “H-LIST” comprises nano-sensors embedded in a silicon substrate and etched/fused in a micro-fibered material to enable an outfit for monitoring suspicious terrorist activities and for track biological and chemical gases, and explosives, including stationary and portable weapons of mass destruction such as those that are likely carried on the body of a terrorist or suicide bomber, or that are likely planted in a parked vehicle or carried inside a moving vehicle. H-LIST includes a wired outfit comprising at least a jacket that is worn by an officer, a security officer, a bus driver, hostesses, Doctors and the like, for sensing deadly gases and explosives in a defined area.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 12, 2003
    Date of Patent: September 18, 2007
    Inventor: Joseph Tabe
  • Patent number: 7265662
    Abstract: This invention relates to an integrated apparatus and method for inspection of a container adapted to hold a pressurized gas. The integrated apparatus comprises (i) an imaging device configured to obtain image data corresponding to the container and to transmit the image data to a central station, (ii) a sound detecting device configured to obtain acoustic data corresponding to the container and to transmit the acoustic data to the central station, (iii) optionally an odor detecting device configured to obtain odor data corresponding to the container contents and to transmit the odor data to the central station, (iv) wired or wireless electronic circuits in communication between each device and the central station for transmitting signals, the signals including the data, to the central station, and (v) the central station configured to receive the data transmitted by each device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 17, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 4, 2007
    Assignee: Praxair Technology, Inc.
    Inventor: Paul Belanger
  • Patent number: 7259665
    Abstract: A self-contained backup power source such as a battery is provided for components within an electrically powered device such as a storage controller, photocopier or the like, to maintain diagnostic status data and to power a service indicator aid, or diagnostic indicator, such as an LED. A switch selects the backup power source when a primary power source of the electrically powered device is no longer available to the component, such as when the component is removed from the electrically powered device, the primary power source is disconnected as a safety precaution when servicing or replacing the component, or a higher-level assembly, in which the component is provided, is removed from the electrically powered device. The diagnostic indicator may be powered separately from the data storage device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 27, 2004
    Date of Patent: August 21, 2007
    Assignee: International Business Machines Corporation
    Inventors: Carl E. Jones, Robert A. Kubo, Andrew D. Walls
  • Patent number: 7259656
    Abstract: A system and method displays a safe route from a location to a destination that avoids one or more hazards detected, such as a fire or a gas leak.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 8, 2002
    Date of Patent: August 21, 2007
    Assignee: CH2M Hill Industrial Design & Construction, Inc.
    Inventor: Allen J Wright
  • Publication number: 20070182573
    Abstract: A detecting and alarming device is provided, that has a mainframe and a detecting set detachably coupled to the mainframe. The detecting set has a parameter calibrating and setting unit for setting a predetermined concentration parameter, in order for the detecting set to send a signal to an alarm module of the mainframe, when a concentration of an ambient object detected by a detecting element of the detecting set is equal to or exceeds the predetermined concentration parameter. It allows the alarm module to generate an alarming signal upon receipt of the signal transmitted from the detecting set and the detecting, set to be easily separated from/coupled to the mainframe for replacement purpose.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 8, 2007
    Publication date: August 9, 2007
    Inventors: Chu-Mei Lin, Yin-Shu Ling
  • Patent number: 7250871
    Abstract: An apparatus and method are provided for detecting presence in gas of transient particulate above its normal zero or acceptable level within a duct (4), said apparatus comprising at least one emitter (2) of illumination selected from infra-red, ultraviolet and visible radiation capable of being projected over essentially the entire cross section of the duct (4) and at least one detector (8, 18, 25) for detecting any sparkle of the illumination from the particulate. The apparatus and method are in particular useful for detecting monitoring particulate in areas where build up or presence of particulate can be disadvantageous, for example hospitals and electricity generating stations.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 4, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 31, 2007
    Assignee: Unidata Europe Limited
    Inventors: Leonard Frederick George Williams, John Richard Bann, Nigel Edward Harris, Jeremy Francis Siddons
  • Patent number: RE40238
    Abstract: A person-carried hydrogen sulfide instrument is adapted for use with a conventional SCADA system or other type of fault monitoring system normally intended for monitoring well-related conditions at a well site. In response to detecting an abnormally high concentration of hydrogen sulfide gas, the instrument triggers the fault monitoring system to record an H2S fault and convey that information to a remote computer. In some embodiments, the instrument includes a signal relay unit that listens to a conventional H2S monitor. The signal relay unit has a learning mode that teaches the unit to recognize an audible alarm from the H2S monitor. In response to bearing the H2S alarm, the signal relay unit emits a trigger signal to the fault monitoring system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 7, 2005
    Date of Patent: April 15, 2008
    Inventor: Gary W. Crook