Time-temperature Relationship (e.g., Integral, Deterioration, Change) Patents (Class 374/102)
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Publication number: 20140119402Abstract: The present invention relates to a time-temperature indicator for monitoring the quality state of a thermally sensitive article and a monitoring method. The present invention also relates to a preparation method of the time-temperature indicator and a thermally sensitive article using the time-temperature indicator. The time-temperature indicator according to the present invention comprises two laminated layers which are physically separated, i.e. a function indication layer and an adsorption function layer. The two laminated layers are stored and transported separately, and combined together in use. Therefore, the time-temperature indicator of the present invention can be stored and transported at room temperature, which reduces the usage costs of the time-temperature indicator.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 26, 2012Publication date: May 1, 2014Applicant: SUZHOU HUASHI MATERIAL TECHNOLOGIES CO. LTDInventors: Zongwu Deng, Xiaofang Ying, Xiaoju Shi
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Publication number: 20140112369Abstract: A coefficient value acquiring unit acquires values of coefficients C and K representing a relationship among a heat generation amount of a motor generated due to a loss Q1(t) of the motor, a temperature variation amount of the motor, and a placement position of a temperature detection device, using the loss Q1(t) of the motor, a detection temperature Td(t), and an ambient temperature Ta of the motor. The temperature estimating unit estimates a temperature Te(t) of the motor based on the values of the coefficients C and K, a preset reference value Cm of the coefficient C, a preset reference value Km of the coefficient K, the detection temperature Td(t), and the ambient temperature Ta of the motor.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 16, 2013Publication date: April 24, 2014Applicant: FANUC CORPORATIONInventor: Tatsuya Senoo
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Patent number: 8701587Abstract: According to a precise critical temperature indicator and a control method thereof of the present invention, the precise critical temperature indicator comprises as one body: a blocking boundary layer which is positioned between a spreading material member including an operation button and spreading medium members including a spreadable area for a spreading material; and a temperature sensor which is controlled and operated as the spreading material passes through the blocking boundary layer and contacts the spreading medium member according to a user's pressing of the operation button. As a result, operation of the temperature sensor is easily controlled using the operation button.Type: GrantFiled: December 24, 2009Date of Patent: April 22, 2014Assignee: Intellectual Discovery, Inc.Inventor: Ji Hoon Park
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Publication number: 20140105244Abstract: In a system, temperature measurements are logged. From the logged measurements, duration of operation of the system in each of a plurality of temperature bands is determined.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 27, 2011Publication date: April 17, 2014Inventors: David A Moore, Scott P. Faasse, Jeffrey A. Plank, Tahir Cader
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Publication number: 20140105243Abstract: The invention relates to methods and apparatus of measuring real time temperature conditions within a reformer. The data is then used for process control optimisation, overheat protection, and improved creep damage and fatigue life prediction.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 14, 2013Publication date: April 17, 2014Inventor: Peter Campbell Tait
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Publication number: 20140098834Abstract: The present invention relates to a time-temperature indicator system useful for monitoring the time and temperature exposure of foods, nutraceuticals, pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, chemicals and other products. The system provides improved time-temperature sensitivity and a response which better reflects that of the reactions leading to quality loss of the monitored product. Further, the invention also relates to a combination comprising said time-temperature indicator system and a product storage container. A method for producing said time-temperature indicator system is also part of the present invention.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 10, 2012Publication date: April 10, 2014Applicant: KEEP-IT TECHNOLOGIES ASInventors: Åsmund K. Røhr, Peder Oscar Anderson, Brit Salbu, Eggert F. Gudjonsson, Marit Nandrup Pettersen, Christian Salbu Aasland
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Publication number: 20140056327Abstract: An apparatus that monitors temperature of temperature-sensitive goods includes a gas generation cell, an NTC thermistor, and an indicator device, wherein the gas generation cell, the NTC thermistor and the indication means are coupled to one another such that, when current flows through the NTC thermistor, a quantity of gas equivalent to a quantity of current flowing through the NTC thermistor is generated by the gas generation cell, and the indicator device changes its state and/or its position depending on the generated quantity of gas.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 10, 2012Publication date: February 27, 2014Applicant: Varta Microbattery GmbHInventors: Michael Maier, Martin Rabinen
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Publication number: 20140010260Abstract: A sensor surrogate (120) for causing a heating, ventilating, and air conditioning (HVAC) system (110) to maintain a desired room temperature, contains a temperature sensor (122) for determining an actual room temperature and logic embodied on at least one non-transitory computer readable medium (130). The logic (130) is configured to perform the steps of: calculating a current low temperature that is lower than a pre-programmed HVAC system temperature and providing the HVAC system with a first signal that represents the calculated current low temperature, if the desired temperature is above the pre-programmed HVAC system temperature; and calculating a current high temperature that is above the pre-programmed HVAC system temperature and providing the HVAC system (110) with a second signal that represents the calculated current high temperature, if the desired room temperature is below the pre-programmed HVAC system temperature.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 14, 2012Publication date: January 9, 2014Inventor: Andrew Hamilton McMillan
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Publication number: 20130343423Abstract: A detected temperature acquiring portion acquires detected temperatures from individual thermopile array sensors, a temperature change comparing portion compares changes in detected temperatures over time, for each respective location, between test locations selected from a overlapping region and individual comparing locations for two thermopile array sensors wherein planned detecting ranges partially overlap each other, to identify a best match location, a factor estimating portion, for each test location, generates an equation indicating a relationship between the best match location and positional shift factors, and establishes these equations as a system and solves the system of equations through a least-squares method to estimate the positional shift factors, and a detecting range identifying portion corrects location coordinates of the planned detecting ranges based on these positional shift factors to identify actual detecting ranges.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 21, 2013Publication date: December 26, 2013Inventors: Tomoki HOSOI, Mitsuhiro HONDA
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Patent number: 8602643Abstract: A method and apparatus is presented for obtaining of accurate measurements of the temperature of a thermocouple and high fidelity measurements of the rate of change of the temperature of a thermocouple. A first sub-circuit is connected to the thermocouple with two conductors made of two different thermocouple alloys which are substantially the same as the alloys used in the construction of the thermocouple. A second sub-circuit is connected to the thermocouple with two conductors made of substantially identical material, such as copper. The first sub-circuit provides an accurate measurement of the temperature of the thermocouple. The second sub-circuit provides a high fidelity measurement of the rate of change of the temperature of the thermocouple.Type: GrantFiled: July 5, 2011Date of Patent: December 10, 2013Inventor: David Phillip Gardiner
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Publication number: 20130301673Abstract: A method for determining false temperature measurements using a food temperature measuring device. The method comprises: (a) measuring a first temperature of a first food item using a temperature probe; (b) commanding a second temperature measurement to be executed; (c) determining a time interval between executing the steps (a) and (b); and (d) indicating a false temperature measurement responsive to step (c).Type: ApplicationFiled: May 6, 2013Publication date: November 14, 2013Inventors: Jason Mobley, Alberto Arzola
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Patent number: 8583311Abstract: A storage battery control device detects an overhead wire supply current value showing a sum of a current value output from a storage battery and a current value output from a transformer substation, and charging or discharging of the storage battery is controlled so that a charging rate of the storage battery becomes a charging rate target value when the detected overhead wire supply current value is less than a first threshold. In addition, charging or discharging of the storage battery is controlled so that the output voltage of the storage battery control device is maintained at a constant voltage control mode when the detected overhead wire supply current value is greater than or equal to the first threshold.Type: GrantFiled: July 29, 2011Date of Patent: November 12, 2013Assignee: Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Ltd.Inventors: Kenji Takao, Katsuaki Morita
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Publication number: 20130287059Abstract: The present disclosure relates to a dosimeter for measuring exposure to heat over time in combination with peak temperature indicators and reversible temperature indicators. The preferred temperature indicator tag is credit card sized and comprises four time-temperature dosimeters. Each dosimeter has a wick in contact with a separate reservoir containing a mix of a colored dye, a wax and an amorphous polymer to indicate a distinct temperature range when the mix melts. The wicks are preferably made of porous paper with a pore size around 8 microns to allow for proper capillary action along its length. An adhesive, except where each wick contacts its respective reservoir and at a vent, preferably seals each wick. The tag preferably has a plurality of peak temperature indicators where each indicator has a blend of a dye, a wax and a polymer for a temperature indication range. The tag also preferably has a plurality of reversible temperature sensors.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 30, 2012Publication date: October 31, 2013Inventors: Corey M. Selman, Uma Sampathkumaran
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Publication number: 20130253877Abstract: An exemplary method of determining location information includes sensing a temperature of an object or person in a sensing field of at least one temperature sensor at each of a plurality of measurement periods. A relationship between the sensed temperature at a first one of the measurement periods and the sensed temperature at a second, later one of the measurement periods is determined. A determination is made from the determined relationship whether the object or person moved relative to the temperature sensor during a time from the first one of the measurement periods to the second one of the measurement periods.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 22, 2012Publication date: September 26, 2013Inventor: Hock M. Ng
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Patent number: 8529682Abstract: Indicator inks, indicators formed by printing or otherwise utilizing the inks and host products utilizing the indicators are disclosed. Reactivity-enhancing adjuvants stimulate enhanced thermal reactivity of diacetylenic or other indicator agents capable of responding to ambient thermal conditions with a visual change signaling an end point. The diacetylenic or other agents may be sensitive or relatively insensitive to ambient temperatures. Use of a reactivity-enhancing adjuvant provides a useful means for adapting the reactivities of indicator agents to the response characteristics of prospective host products, for example perishables such as vaccines or fresh fish and maturables such as fruit, cheese and wine. Some exemplary adjuvants include low-temperature polymerization initiators, for example methyl ethyl ketone peroxide and polymerization accelerators, for example cobalt compounds. Such initiators and accelerators can also be used in combination.Type: GrantFiled: September 29, 2011Date of Patent: September 10, 2013Assignee: Temptime CorporationInventors: Thaddeus Prusik, Dawn E. Smith, Ray H. Baughman
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Patent number: 8523429Abstract: A remote, noncontact temperature determination method and apparatus is provided, which is operable to determine the temperature of a conducting member forming a part of or in operative thermal communication with an object of interest. The method comprises the steps of first inducing a closed vortex eddy current (28) in a conducting member (16, 38, 44) by subjecting the member (16, 38, 44) to a magnetic field, such that the corresponding eddy current magnitude changes exponentially over time. A characteristic time constant of the exponential current magnitude changes is then determined, and this is used to calculate the temperature of the object. The apparatus (24) includes a field transmitting coil (14) coupled with a waveform generator (12) for inducing the eddy current (28), and a field receiving coil assembly (18) which detects the corresponding magnetic field induced by the eddy current (28).Type: GrantFiled: October 14, 2010Date of Patent: September 3, 2013Assignee: TSI Technologies LLCInventors: Vladimir Malyshev, Evgeni Sorkine
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Patent number: 8511891Abstract: A method for warming up a first instrument that includes providing an instrument measuring a first instrument temperature with the first temperature sensor at a starting time; measuring a first air temperature with the second temperature sensor at the starting time; determining a first profile based at least in part on the first instrument temperature and the first air temperature, the first profile representing an amount of first electrical current applied as a function of time, the first profile selected to provide a predicted level of instrument performance within a warm-up time; applying the first electrical current according to the first profile; and providing an operator at the starting time with a numerical value for the warm-up time of the instrument, wherein the warm-up time is based at least in part on the first instrument temperature and the first air temperature.Type: GrantFiled: June 12, 2012Date of Patent: August 20, 2013Assignee: Faro Technologies, Inc.Inventors: Peter G. Cramer, Kenneth Steffey, John M. Hoffer, Jr.
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Patent number: 8491185Abstract: A method for checking the quality of thermal coupling between a measuring cell and a thermostatted element of an analyzer, where the measuring cell can be exchangeably inserted into an analyzer to measure at least one parameter of a sample, and is provided with at least one sensor element in a measuring channel.Type: GrantFiled: December 10, 2009Date of Patent: July 23, 2013Assignee: Roche Diagnostics Operations Inc.Inventors: Wolf-Dietrich Steinboeck, Robert Felsberger, Michael Kraker, Friedrich Schneider, Juergen Walla
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Patent number: 8480295Abstract: The invention relates to a method and a device for testing the fire hazard of a material. According to one embodiment of the method, a plane region of the surface of a specimen made of the material is brought in contact for at most a predetermined contact time with a glow wire, which has been heated to a predetermined temperature. Image data of the specimen are furthermore acquired by at least a first camera at least while the specimen is in contact with the glow wire. Image processing of the acquired image data of the specimen is furthermore carried out, preferably in realtime, ignition of the specimen by the glow wire being detected if applicable. A first duration is then determined, which corresponds to the length of time between the application of the tip of the glow wire on the specimen and the ignition of the specimen.Type: GrantFiled: December 19, 2008Date of Patent: July 9, 2013Assignee: UL LLCInventors: Bahman Sarabi, Martin Behrendt
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Patent number: 8482237Abstract: A vehicle includes a power source, a motor, and a computing device. The power source provides electrical energy to the motor, and the motor generates rotational motion from the electrical energy received. The computing device is configured to estimate a temperature of the motor in real time based at least in part on a thermal model of the motor. The thermal model includes a plurality of nodes and at least one thermal resistance. Each node represents a region of the motor and each thermal resistance represents a heat transfer path between at least two of the nodes. A method includes solving one or more energy balance equations to determine a temperature change at each node and estimating the temperature of the motor in real time based at least in part on the temperature change at each node and at least one of the thermal resistances in the thermal model.Type: GrantFiled: March 3, 2011Date of Patent: July 9, 2013Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations LLCInventors: Daniel J. Berry, Pankaj Mithal, Paul F. Turnbull, Peter J. Savagian, Chia-Chou Yeh, Steven E. Schulz
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Publication number: 20130147407Abstract: A temperature protection device basically includes a temperature detector, a temperature estimator, an overheated determining component and an overheating protection component. The temperature detector detects a temperature of a semiconductor component. The temperature estimator estimates an estimated temperature of the semiconductor component. The overheated determining component determines whether the semiconductor component is in an overheated state based on the detected temperature and the estimated temperature by using a first estimated temperature as the estimated temperature at a time point when the detected temperature has reached a first threshold temperature and a second estimated temperature that is estimated subsequent to the time point as the estimated temperature when the detected temperature has reached the first threshold temperature.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 12, 2011Publication date: June 13, 2013Applicant: NISSAN MOTOR CO., LTD.Inventor: Hiromichi Kawamura
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Publication number: 20130148690Abstract: A time-temperature indicator (TTI) uses polymer hardening properties to “set” or retain indications of temperature history. The TTI includes a mesh layer affixed to a thermo-conductive adhesive layer and a photonic crystal patterned film affixed to the mesh layer. The photonic crystal shows a property of bandgap shift vs temperature and responds to a predetermined range of temperatures to provide a visible indication of the range of temperatures. A hardener pouch is affixed to one end of the mesh layer and releases hardener in response to an initiating event, so that the photonic crystal material responds to the hardener by presenting a fixed state.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 11, 2012Publication date: June 13, 2013Applicant: NANO AND ADVANCED MATERIALS INSTITUTE LIMITEDInventor: Nano and Advanced Materials Institute Limited
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Patent number: 8457918Abstract: A method and apparatus for estimating the temperature sensed upon contact with a surface. The method includes contactless heating of the surface, contactless measurement of a time change in temperature of the surface, and estimation of the temperature sensed upon contact with the surface on the basis of this time change in temperature.Type: GrantFiled: January 4, 2011Date of Patent: June 4, 2013Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLCInventors: Mark René Spingler, Alexander van Laack
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Publication number: 20130121372Abstract: Temperature is determined by measuring the time it takes to charge a capacitor with a resistive temperature sensor. A clock, time counter, a voltage comparator and voltage reference are used in determining a course time measurement. The time measurement resolution is enhanced with the addition of a constant current source charging another timing capacitor within a single clock pulse time to provide a fine time measurement.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 23, 2012Publication date: May 16, 2013Applicant: MICROCHIP TECHNOLOGY INCORPORATEDInventor: Microchip Technology Incorporated
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Publication number: 20130100983Abstract: A time and temperature duration indicator facilitates eradicating of pests. The invention contemplates a temperature sensor including a material that changes color when the desired temperature is achieved. The color change allows one to view a colored spot. A wax may be employed that melts at the desired temperature and provided in sufficient quantity that complete melting indicates the desired temperature and duration have been achieved. In another embodiment, a temperature sensor sends a signal to a computer/timer. When the signal indicates that the desired temperature has been achieved, the computer starts a timer. When the timer indicates to the computer that the desired temperature has been maintained for the desired time interval, the computer activates an indicator. Several embodiments are contemplated for holding the inventive device at a desired location. Methods of operation are also disclosed.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 24, 2011Publication date: April 25, 2013Inventor: Russell Meldrum
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Publication number: 20130090791Abstract: Methods, systems, and vehicles are provided pertaining to the determination of a temperature of a vehicle motor having an ignition when the ignition is turned on following a period of time in which the ignition had been turned off. A memory stores a function having a boundary condition that comprises a prior temperature from when the ignition was turned off. A processor is coupled to the memory. The processor is configured to determine an amount of time for which the ignition has been turned on and determine the temperature of the motor using the function if the amount of time for which the ignition has been turned on is less than a predetermined threshold.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 6, 2011Publication date: April 11, 2013Applicant: GM GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS LLCInventors: CHIA-CHOU YEH, DANIEL J. BERRY, PAUL F. TURNBULL
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Patent number: 8407015Abstract: The invention relates to a method for determining the amount of warm water in a water tank of domestic water heating system, which includes: (a) Pre-determining various situation graphs, each graph describes the variation of the water temperature in said water tank as a function of time, in one specific operational situation of the system; (b) Dividing each of said graphs to plurality of sections, each graph section describes the variation of the water temperature in the water tank as a function of time, during a sectional period of time; (c) Determining for each graph section the percentage of warm water in the tank at the end of said section; (d) Storing in a memory storage said plurality of graph sections, and the corresponding percentage of warm water in the tank at the end of said section, as determined; (e) During the operation of the heating system, sampling periodically the temperature in the tank; (f) For each present sequence of samples, finding in said memory storage the most similar graph section,Type: GrantFiled: June 15, 2008Date of Patent: March 26, 2013Inventors: Isaac Yatir, Niv Tal
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Patent number: 8403558Abstract: The invention relates to a time temperature indicator comprising a) at least one photo-chromic colorant introduced into and/or atop a matrix substrate and charged by exposure to UV light; b) at least a transparent colorless or a transparent colored light absorbing protecting layer adhered to the underlying layer a) which contains the photo-chromic colorant; characterized in that the light absorbing protecting layer comprises 1-50 wt % of an UV light absorber or an UV light absorber mixture and 0.1-10 wt % of an optical brightener wherein the weight ratio of the UV light absorber and optical brightener is 0.1-10.Type: GrantFiled: December 17, 2007Date of Patent: March 26, 2013Assignee: Bizerba GmbH & Co. KGInventors: André Fuchs, Anne Veronica Carrigan
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Patent number: 8388222Abstract: Exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure include devices for monitoring and indicating the completion of eradication of a pest infestation in a space in which heating is utilized for eradication. In an exemplary embodiment, a device includes a sensor configured to sense temperature proximate the device, and a visual indicator configured to provide indication of status. The device further includes a processor that is connected to the sensor and visual indicator. The processor is configured to determine whether the sensed temperature exceeds the MINIMUM LETHAL TEMPERATURE, and configured to determine occurrence of completion of a minimum heating duration required for eradication in which the sensed temperature exceeds the MINIMUM LETHAL TEMPERATURE. The processor is further configured to activate the visual indicator subsequent to completion of the minimum heating duration, to thereby provide visible indication that the minimum heating duration for eradication of a pest infestation has elapsed.Type: GrantFiled: February 9, 2011Date of Patent: March 5, 2013Inventors: Gary Joseph Potter, Marc Braun, Jeffrey A. Kieffer
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Publication number: 20130037533Abstract: Provided is an electronic device including a temperature measuring part measuring a temperature of a heat generation source generating heat caused by power consumption or of a portion inside a housing that varies in temperature due to heat generation of the heat generation source; and an ambient temperature calculating part calculating a temperature by use of a predetermined relational formula that differs according to a model based on a difference between a first temperature measured by the temperature measuring part after the elapse of a first predetermined period of time from the start of constant power consumption by the heat generation source and a second temperature measured by the temperature measuring part further after the elapse of a second predetermined period of time as an ambient temperature of an environment in which the housing is placed.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 18, 2012Publication date: February 14, 2013Applicant: Sony CorporationInventors: Kimiyasu NAMEKAWA, Akihiro EGAWA
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Publication number: 20130031973Abstract: A method for detecting accretion or abrasion on a first measuring tube of a flow measuring device. A first temperature as a function of time is registered via a first temperature sensor, which is arranged on the first measuring tube in such a manner that, between the first temperature sensor and the medium, at least one measuring tube wall of the first measuring tube is embodied. Parallel in time, a second reference temperature as a function of time is registered by a second temperature sensor, which is spaced from the first temperature sensor and thermally coupled to the medium. Therefrom, at least one variable characteristic is determined, and accretion or abrasion on the first measuring tube is detected, if the at least one determined characteristic variable or a variable derived therefrom deviates by more than a limit value from a predetermined reference variable.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 2, 2012Publication date: February 7, 2013Applicant: Endress + Hauser Flowtec AGInventors: Michael Kirst, Alfred Rieder, Wolfgang Drahm, Hao Zhu, Christof Huber, Vivek Kumar
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Patent number: 8354486Abstract: Solid polymerizable diacetylenic monomer compositions, including compositions co-crystallized from a diversity of solvent systems under diverse cooling conditions, can exhibit diffraction patterns associated with the color development reactivities of the compositions. High reactivity compositions are disclosed and high reactivity and low reactivity phases can be identified. A low angle powder X-ray diffraction peak can indicate the presence of one or more crystal phases in a composition. A fingerprint region can exhibit fingerprint patterns of diffraction peaks associated with different reactivities. Information about polymerization of the diacetylenic monomers is disclosed using 13C nuclear magnetic resonance (“NMR”) characterization. Diacetylenic monomer compositions useful in ambient condition indicators, for example time-temperature indicators are disclosed.Type: GrantFiled: March 24, 2010Date of Patent: January 15, 2013Assignee: Temptime CorporationInventors: Elizabeth Castillo Martinez, Ray H. Baughman, Lee J. Hall, Mikhail Kozlov, Dawn E. Smith, Thaddeus Prusik, Carl M. Lentz
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Patent number: 8337079Abstract: To provide a fluorescent temperature sensor capable of identifying easily the location of a failure. A fluorescent temperature sensor for producing a temperature signal from fluorescent light from a fluorescent material and that has been optically stimulated comprises a light projecting module having an LED for projecting light at the fluorescent material and a second photodiode for receiving light emitted from the LED and a light receiving module having a first photodiode for receiving the light emitted from the fluorescent material, where the location of a failure in the sensor can be identified based on, at least, the output signal from the second photodiode.Type: GrantFiled: May 21, 2009Date of Patent: December 25, 2012Assignee: Azbil CorporationInventors: Seiichiro Kinugasa, Atsushi Kato, Shunji Ichida
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Publication number: 20120320943Abstract: A method for warming up a first instrument that includes providing an instrument measuring a first instrument temperature with the first temperature sensor at a starting time; measuring a first air temperature with the second temperature sensor at the starting time; determining a first profile based at least in part on the first instrument temperature and the first air temperature, the first profile representing an amount of first electrical current applied as a function of time, the first profile selected to provide a predicted level of instrument performance within a warm-up time; applying the first electrical current according to the first profile; and providing an operator at the starting time with a numerical value for the warm-up time of the instrument, wherein the warm-up time is based at least in part on the first instrument temperature and the first air temperature.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 12, 2012Publication date: December 20, 2012Applicant: FARO TECHNOLOGIES, INC.Inventors: Peter G. Cramer, Kenneth Steffey, John M. Hoffer, JR.
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Publication number: 20120307861Abstract: An optical fiber is provided with a first measurement portion and a second measurement portion provided with covering layers different at least in any one of heat capacity and heat conductivity. Then, the first measurement portion and the second measurement portion are located in the same measurement position and light is inputted from a temperature measurement device into the optical fiber. Thereafter, the temperature measurement device receives backscattered light generated inside the optical fiber to measure temperature distribution in a longitudinal direction of the optical fiber. An analyzer analyzes a variation over time of the temperature distribution outputted from the temperature measurement device to calculate a temperature and a wind velocity in a measurement position where the first measurement portion and the second measurement portion are located.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 1, 2012Publication date: December 6, 2012Applicant: FUJITSU LIMITEDInventors: Fumio Takei, Kazushi Uno, Takeo Kasajima
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Publication number: 20120244623Abstract: A variety of indicators, e.g., time, temperature, time-temperature, freeze, thaw and sterilization are reported and used for monitoring quality of perishables. However, these indicators are tamperable, e.g., an indicator can be opened, removed, repositioned, exchanged or replaced. Disclosed are tamper evident time, temperature, time-temperature, freeze, thaw, sterilization and like indicating devices. If an indicator is tampered, it will be either destroyed or will provide a visual indication or a message, such as “VOID” or “TAMPERED”.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 11, 2012Publication date: September 27, 2012Inventor: Gordhanbhai N. Patel
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Publication number: 20120245882Abstract: A method of improving wafer yield by accurately identifying tilted wafer conditions may include providing inquiry signals in gaps defined between machine signals where the inquiry signals relate to temperature information indicative of a temperature of a hot plate having an item placed thereon, receiving the temperature information, and determining a seating condition of the item based on a comparison of the temperature information to an expected heat profile for a fully seated item. A corresponding apparatus is also provided.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 25, 2011Publication date: September 27, 2012Inventors: Hu Yu Hau, Liau Shiuan-Kai, Ching-Hua Cho, Li Yung Li, Tseng Chia Hao, Chenghui Chen, Tsai Yuh Tong
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Patent number: 8275566Abstract: An apparatus including a recording switch for recording a temperature of an object; a judging unit that measures the temperature of the object using a sensor at intervals and judges whether a difference in temperatures measured at the intervals is within a range of a pre-set value; a first acquisition unit that records and/or outputs, when a switch-on of the recording switch is detected and the difference in temperatures is within the range of the pre-set value, information including a first temperature measured using the sensor and has become valid by the switch-on of the recording switch; and a second acquisition unit that records and/or outputs, when the switch-on is detected and the difference in temperatures is outside the range information including a second temperature measured using the sensor and becomes valid when the difference in temperatures falls within the range after the switch-on is detected.Type: GrantFiled: March 20, 2009Date of Patent: September 25, 2012Assignee: T & D CorporationInventors: Kanato Kobayashi, Takeshi Tsukanaka
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Publication number: 20120236901Abstract: A time-temperature indication device includes a first reservoir having a fluid disposed therein, and a capillary tube. The capillary tube is disposed proximate to the first reservoir to receive fluid from the first reservoir responsive to changes in viscosity of the fluid based on changes in temperature. The capillary tube restricts flow of the fluid out of the first reservoir into the capillary tube to enable fluid flow only in a single direction.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 14, 2012Publication date: September 20, 2012Applicant: THE JOHNS HOPKINS UNIVERSITYInventors: John A. Thomas, Jason E. Tiffany, Lawrence W. Hunter, Terry E. Phillips
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Publication number: 20120236900Abstract: The present invention relates to a printed elapsed time-temperature indicating labels and to a method of indicating the elapse of a predetermined period of time and/or temperature. More' specifically the present invention relates to a device that measures and visually indicates the passage of a predetermined period of time and the various components of which can be formed by inexpensive printing methods and by lamination of one or more printed layers, which can be activated at point of use. The present invention is intended to provide a solution to the longstanding problems of providing an indication of the exposure of foodstuffs to unacceptable time and/or temperature conditions.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 24, 2010Publication date: September 20, 2012Inventors: Arnold Glynn Hubbard, Brian Sagar, Blue Ramsey, Michael O'Connor, John Davison, Sarah Davison-Poltock
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Patent number: 8267576Abstract: The present invention is generally in the field of measuring and indicating techniques and relates to a time-temperature indicating device and methods of manufacturing and reading this device. More specifically, the time-temperature indicator (TTI) device comprises at least one active reactant being at least a part of a component that is configured to be either an electrical component or transformable into an electrical component, said at least one active reactant being selected to be affectable by a chemical and/or physical reaction effecting a change in at least an electrical property of said electrical component at a rate that is time-temperature dependent.Type: GrantFiled: October 31, 2005Date of Patent: September 18, 2012Assignee: Freshpoint Holdings SAInventors: Dietrich Haarer, Yoav Levy
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Patent number: 8248739Abstract: An electrical switching apparatus is for another apparatus including a number of insulators, a number of temperature sensors operatively associated with the number of insulators, and a number of conductors operatively associated with the number of insulators. The electrical switching apparatus includes a number of separable contacts, an operating mechanism structured to open and close the separable contacts, a number of sensors structured to sense a number of currents flowing through the separable contacts and through the conductors, a processor structured to input the sensed currents from the sensors, and an output. The processor calculates at least one of: (a) a thermal age of the other apparatus from a number of sensed temperatures from the temperature sensors, and (b) the thermal age of the other apparatus from the sensed currents. The output includes the thermal age of the other apparatus.Type: GrantFiled: July 24, 2009Date of Patent: August 21, 2012Assignee: Eaton CorporationInventor: Lawrence B. Farr
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Patent number: 8212189Abstract: A temperature control interface for a stove top is provided. The temperature control interface includes a numerical temperature setting to which a temperature of an object heated on the stovetop will be regulated. A method of cooking on a stovetop is provided in which a recipe includes a numerical temperature to which a cookware object should be regulated during cooking.Type: GrantFiled: November 19, 2006Date of Patent: July 3, 2012Inventor: Mamoru Imura
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Publication number: 20120147920Abstract: A method for monitoring a status of a sleeve for lining a system of pipes or conduits, the sleeve being impregnated with a curable resin, includes the steps of providing the sleeve, disposing at least one fiber optic sensor in thermally conductive contact with the sleeve, and generating, using the at least one fiber optic sensor, a positionally resolved thermographic image representative of a temperature of the sleeve as a function of position and timeType: ApplicationFiled: February 23, 2012Publication date: June 14, 2012Inventor: Ulrich Glombitza
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Patent number: 8197128Abstract: A method and a device for temperature prediction or measurement are disclosed. The method comprises: acquiring temperature data outputted from a thermometer probe; selecting some temperature data within a valid time period from the acquired data; determining a first specific time point according to the slope change rate of the temperature curve within the valid time period and an initial temperature within the valid time period; determining a second specific time point according to the slope at or before the first specific time point; calculating a value of temperature y according to an hyperbolic formula; determining a final temperature of the object according to the maximum slope of the temperature curve in the valid time period, the initial temperature of the temperature curve in the valid time period, and the value of temperature y.Type: GrantFiled: November 12, 2008Date of Patent: June 12, 2012Assignee: Shenzhen Mindray Bio-Medical Electronics Co., Ltd.Inventors: Bo Zhang, Pengfei Zuo, Xianliang He, Zhonghua Liu
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Patent number: 8177423Abstract: The present invention provides a thermal history sensor having a plurality of substrates positioned adjacent to an item. The substrates include different compositions, such that the substrates respond to thermal exposures with different changes in electrical conductivity or magnetic permeability. By measuring the electrical or magnetic properties of the substrates following thermal exposure, information about the thermal history may be obtained.Type: GrantFiled: May 19, 2008Date of Patent: May 15, 2012Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the Air ForceInventors: Geoff E. Fair, Triplicane A. Parthasarathy, Ronald J. Kerans
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Patent number: 8152364Abstract: A film is inserted between two rigid substrates which form a sample. The sample is fixed at a first end in a device for measuring creep. The device comprises means for applying a predetermined force on a free end of the sample. The film being sheared, study of its creep can be performed.Type: GrantFiled: December 16, 2008Date of Patent: April 10, 2012Assignee: Commissariat a l'Energie AtomiqueInventors: Cecile Petitdidier, Raluca Tiron, Benedicte Mortini
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Patent number: 8142072Abstract: The invention provides an indicator excellent in constitutional simplicity and capable of indicating both the temperature of an article to be indicated and elapsed time at that temperature, as well as an indicator of simple constitution capable of indicating the level of deformation of the article by external force. Disclosed is an external stimulus indicator including a polymer composition composed of a polymer and a dye, wherein the polymer composition has the dye fixed in a specific molecular dispersion state in the polymer, and when kept at a temperature not lower than a specific temperature for at least a predetermined time or deformed to at least a certain level by external force, changes its color to a hue different from the initial hue thereof.Type: GrantFiled: November 12, 2008Date of Patent: March 27, 2012Assignee: Toyo Boseki Kabushiki KaishaInventor: Maki Kinami
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Publication number: 20120051394Abstract: A temperature variation sensing apparatus and a method thereof are provided. The temperature variation sensing apparatus includes a sensing unit and a control unit. The sensing unit senses a variation in temperature to generate a temperature difference signal, while the control unit executes a program code to determine a non-trigger range based on the ambient temperature. When the level of the temperature difference signal is out of the non-trigger range, the control unit generates a control signal, wherein of the non-trigger range varies with the ambient temperature and forms a first curve. The first curve includes at least one first extreme point; the product of slopes of the first curve on two ends of the first extreme point is negative. Software is utilized to perform temperature compensation. As a result, a better sensitivity curve is obtained and the sensing accuracy is accordingly enhanced.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 18, 2011Publication date: March 1, 2012Applicant: EMCOM TECHNOLOGY INC.Inventor: Chu-Li Wang
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Publication number: 20120033707Abstract: A non-destructive test using cryogenic temperatures is capable of detecting defects in materials that result from residual stress from manufacturing and from retained austenite. The subject materials or parts that are subjected to cryogenic temperatures approaching and below ˜?300° F., ?184° C., 89° K, thereby causing permanent deformations or characteristic changes in the material if excessive residual stress, retained austenite or discontinuities exist. To determine the extent of changes, a first metric of the subject material is determined, the material is then subjected to cryogenic cooling thereby triggering any deformation or characteristic changes. Subsequent to the cryogenic cooling, the subject material may be returned to a second temperature whereby a second metric representing based on the same characteristic of the subject material is determined. The comparison of the first and second metrics reveals the deformation or change resultant from the defect.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 27, 2011Publication date: February 9, 2012Inventor: Victor Sloan