With Fluid Flow Deflector Patents (Class 374/138)
  • Publication number: 20080080588
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for flud flow measurement are provided. The apparatus includes a first thermistor; a second thermistor; a first deflecting member configured to shield the first thermistor from fluid flowing in a first direction; a second deflecting member configured to shield the second thermistor from fluid flowing in a second direction where the second direction is substantially opposite the first direction; and a circuit in electrical communicati with the first thermistor and the second thermistor. The circuit includes a comparator for comparing a first signal from the first thermistor to a second signal from the second thermistor. The comparator provides an output indicative of a direction of fluid flowing past the first thermistor and the second thermistor.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 28, 2006
    Publication date: April 3, 2008
    Applicant: DELPHI TECHNOLOGIES INC.
    Inventor: David A. Ross
  • Patent number: 7156552
    Abstract: A temperature sensor system includes a body and window arrangement. The body defines an air intake and is flush mounted to a mobile platform having a boundary layer. The window arrangement is integrated into the body and transfers a first signal and receives a second signal. The second signal represents energy from the first signal that is reflected by air particles beyond the boundary layer. The second signal is processed to determine a temperature beyond the boundary layer. The air intake receives air particles, transfers a first set of the air particles to a first air vent into the mobile platform, receives the first set of the air particles from a second air vent from the mobile platform, vents the first set of the air particles, and vents a second set of the air particles that bypass the first air vent.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 7, 2004
    Date of Patent: January 2, 2007
    Assignee: University Corporation for Atmospheric Research
    Inventor: Rex J. Fleming
  • Patent number: 7114847
    Abstract: The invention relates to a total temperature probe for an aircraft and to a method of determining temperature by means of such a probe. The total temperature measurement probe comprises a base, an external face of which is intended to be mounted so as to be substantially coplanar with a skin of the aircraft, and a mast that projects from the base and supports an active part of the probe. The probe furthermore includes several temperature sensors placed on, the external face of the base and distributed around the mast. The method consists in determining the total temperature of the air surrounding the probe on the basis of the temperature measurement carried out in the active part (4) of the probe and on the basis of the maximum difference that exists between the measurements made by the temperature sensors.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 13, 2003
    Date of Patent: October 3, 2006
    Assignee: Thales
    Inventor: Marc Simeon
  • Patent number: 7056013
    Abstract: A temperature sensor arrangement (100, 300) includes a sensor cavity (150), a temperature sensing element (330) being positioned along a center line (140, 340) of the sensor cavity (150) and generating a signal indicating temperature of air flowing thereto, and a generally cylindrical outer casing (105, 305) surrounding the sensor cavity (150). In one embodiment, the outer casing (105) includes a pattern of flow passages (110) for allowing air flow to the temperature sensing element (330) in the sensor cavity (150), the flow passages (110) being angled such that there is no direct line of air flow from an exterior of the outer casing (105) to the sensing element (330). In another embodiment, the flow passages (310) are arranged in an offset pattern relative to a center line (340) of the housing cavity (150), such that there is no direct line of air flow from an exterior of the outer casing (305) to the sensing element (330).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 31, 2004
    Date of Patent: June 6, 2006
    Assignee: Honeywell International Inc.
    Inventors: Peter Anderson, Roger R. Sanger, Timothy J. Lippold, Paul J. Cairns
  • Patent number: 6974250
    Abstract: The present invention relates to providing a temperature sensor that is mountable on an aircraft and includes a thermometer or temperature sensing element for sensing temperature of airflow. A heater is provided on the probe to bias the temperature sensed by the thermometer or temperature sensing element, in a manner such that the temperature measured is at a substantially known offset from the static temperature surrounding the temperature sensor. Control of the offset can be achieved by regulating airflow or heat provided. The heating effect is controlled to be a substantially equal and opposite match to the decreased total temperature resulting from lower airspeed or decreased airflow. In this manner, the thermometer or temperature sensing element will essentially operate at a fixed offset above static temperature, that is the temperature in undisturbed air in which the aircraft is operating, over a fairly wide range of flow rates.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 15, 2004
    Date of Patent: December 13, 2005
    Assignee: Rosemount Aerospace Inc.
    Inventor: John A. Severson
  • Patent number: 6877895
    Abstract: A fire sensor comprising a heat detection element for detecting heat from a hot airflow generated by a fire, a sensor main body, and an outer cover, which has a plurality of plate fins protruding from the sensor main body, for protecting the heat detecting element. The plate fins have a predetermined offset angle to a center line passing through the center of the outer cover and are erected approximately perpendicular to the sensor main body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 18, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 12, 2005
    Assignee: Hochiki Corporation
    Inventors: Kari Mayusumi, Yukio Yamauchi, Hiroshi Shima
  • Patent number: 6827485
    Abstract: A turbine engine temperature sensing assembly includes a temperature sensor probe mounted relative to a surface of a turbine engine and subjected to air flow. The air moves past the temperature sensor probe in a first direction. A deflector post is mounted adjacent to the temperature sensor probe, and is spaced upstream of the temperature sensor probe to change air flow patterns around the temperature sensor probe and to intercept particles moving with the air flow toward the temperature sensor probe. The temperature sensor probe and deflector post are shown supported in a flow duct formed by a temperature sensor probe housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 16, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 7, 2004
    Assignee: Rosemount Aerospace Inc.
    Inventor: Scott D. Isebrand
  • Patent number: 6712507
    Abstract: A temperature sensor device for use in a clean room has a housing, a covering tube extending from the housing, a lead wire protecting tube extending from the housing within the covering tube, and a generally cylindrical temperature sensor also disposed within the covering tube. A fixing end of the temperature sensor is detachably coupled to a distal end of the lead wire protecting tube. A plurality of lead wires protrude from the fixing end and extend through the lead wire protecting tube and into the housing. The temperature sensor includes a temperature sensor element at a free end thereof. The covering tube has at least one hole by which the temperature sensor element is exposed to the atmosphere. Accordingly, the temperature sensor is highly responsive to changes in temperature, and can be repaired, maintained or replaced with ease.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 27, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 30, 2004
    Assignee: Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Jae Chan Park, Deck Gyu Park, Jong Han Kim, Byung Chan Lee
  • Publication number: 20040037348
    Abstract: A total air temperature (TAT) probe for measuring TAT includes an inlet scoop which receives airflow from free stream airflow moving toward the inlet scoop from a first direction. A first portion of the airflow entering the inlet scoop exits the probe through a main exit channel. A second portion of the airflow enters a TAT sensor flow passage, which extends longitudinally along an axis. This axis is oriented to form an angle of less than 90 degrees with the first direction from which the free stream airflow moves toward the inlet scoop. A sensor assembly extends longitudinally in the sensor flow passage and measures a total air temperature of airflow through the sensor flow passage. By increasing the angle through which the internal air turns, better inertial extraction of ice and water particles is realized. As a result, sensor clogging from accreted ice is significantly reduced. A second improvement is achieved by repositioning the sensor element to be more in-line with the internal airflow direction.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 23, 2003
    Publication date: February 26, 2004
    Applicant: Rosemount Aerospace Inc.
    Inventors: Paul A. Ice, Charles R. Willcox
  • Patent number: 6644850
    Abstract: A temperature sensing device for an internal-combustion engine includes a carrier structure, a first sensor element accommodated on the carrier structure, a second sensor element also accommodated on the carrier structure, an engine air guiding device for feeding an engine intake air flow to the first sensor element, and a radiator air guiding device for feeding a radiator air flow passed through an engine radiator to the second sensor element. By way of a compact constructional unit, which can be preassembled, it is possible to centrally sense the temperatures of the two air flows. The obtained measuring signals can be coupled into a cable tree system provided on the vehicle side while the cabling expenditures are reduced.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 21, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 11, 2003
    Assignee: Bayerische Motoren Werke Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventors: Joachim Kuhn, Robert Albiez, Dirk Jeschke
  • Patent number: 6641301
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for maintaining a viewing window of a detector substantially clean includes enclosing the detector within a housing, and moving a target surface relative to the viewing window to create an airflow adjacent the viewing window. The housing can include an aperture through which the viewing window of the sensor views the target surface. Motion of the target surface creates an airflow velocity adjacent the viewing window for maintaining the viewing window substantially clean. To increase the accuracy of the detector, a high emissivity area is provided on an outside surface of the housing which faces the target surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 9, 2001
    Date of Patent: November 4, 2003
    Assignee: Exergen Corporation
    Inventor: Francesco Pompei
  • Patent number: 6609825
    Abstract: A total air temperature probe positionable on a surface of an aircraft for measuring total air temperature includes an inlet scoop which receives airflow from free stream airflow moving toward the inlet scoop from a first direction. A first portion of the airflow entering the inlet scoop exits the probe through a main exit channel. A second portion of the airflow enters a TAT sensor flow passage, which extends longitudinally along an axis. This axis is oriented to form an angle of less than 90 degrees with the first direction from which the free stream airflow moves toward the inlet scoop. A sensor assembly extends longitudinally in the sensor flow passage and measures a total air temperature of airflow through the sensor flow passage. By increasing the angle through which the internal air turns, better inertial extraction of ice and water particles is realized. As a result, sensor clogging from accreted ice is significantly reduced.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 21, 2001
    Date of Patent: August 26, 2003
    Assignee: Rosemount Aerospace Inc.
    Inventors: Paul A. Ice, Charles R. Willcox
  • Publication number: 20030058919
    Abstract: A total air temperature probe positionable on a surface of an aircraft for measuring total air temperature includes an inlet scoop which receives airflow from free stream airflow moving toward the inlet scoop from a first direction. A first portion of the airflow entering the inlet scoop exits the probe through a main exit channel. A second portion of the airflow enters a TAT sensor flow passage, which extends longitudinally along an axis. This axis is oriented to form an angle of less than 90 degrees with the first direction from which the free stream airflow moves toward the inlet scoop. A sensor assembly extends longitudinally in the sensor flow passage and measures a total air temperature of airflow through the sensor flow passage. By increasing the angle through which the internal air turns, better inertial extraction of ice and water particles is realized. As a result, sensor clogging from accreted ice is significantly reduced.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 21, 2001
    Publication date: March 27, 2003
    Inventors: Paul A. Ice, Charles R. Willcox
  • Publication number: 20030048831
    Abstract: The invention relates to an optical method and to an optical device based on a laser source for implementing the optical method for nonintrusively measuring the temperature of a flowing liquid by using the fluorescence induced by a laser beam in a measurement volume (3) of the liquid, the process consisting in using a single temperature-sensitive fluorescent tracer and at least two separate spectral detection windows on this same tracer, after molecular dilution of said tracer in said liquid medium.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 5, 2002
    Publication date: March 13, 2003
    Inventors: Fabrice Lemoine, Pascal La Vielle
  • Publication number: 20020163954
    Abstract: A temperature sensor device for use in a clean room has a housing, a covering tube extending from the housing, a lead wire protecting tube extending from the housing within the covering tube, and a generally cylindrical temperature sensor also disposed within the covering tube. A fixing end of the temperature sensor is detachably coupled to a distal end of the lead wire protecting tube. A plurality of lead wires protrude from the fixing end and extend through the lead wire protecting tube and into the housing. The temperature sensor includes a temperature sensor element at a free end thereof. The covering tube has at least one hole by which the temperature sensor element is exposed to the atmosphere. Accordingly, the temperature sensor is highly responsive to changes in temperature, and can be repaired, maintained or replaced with ease.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 27, 2002
    Publication date: November 7, 2002
    Inventors: Jae Chan Park, Deck Gyu Park, Jong Han Kim, Byung Chan Lee
  • Publication number: 20020131474
    Abstract: A temperature measuring device is the provided with which accurate temperature measurement is possible even when used in conditions of ice and snow, to which ice and snow do not readily adhere, and with which even when ice and snow do adhere, the temperature measuring device itself is not damaged. and the engine, or the like, are not damaged when the ice and snow detach.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 15, 2002
    Publication date: September 19, 2002
    Applicant: Yokogawa Denshikiki Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Taro Suga
  • Publication number: 20020122459
    Abstract: A high temperature capable probe housing for use in a gas turbine engine is disclosed. The rake is preferably made of silicon nitride or silicon carbide and is capable of withstanding the hostile environment within a gas turbine engine at temperatures greater than 1,200 Celsius while only passively cooled. The rake is a substantially elongated member extending between an at least partially open first end and a closed second end. The rake has an interior surface and an exterior surface. The interior surface defines an internal cavity beginning at the at least partially open first end and extending toward the closed second end. The exterior surface extends between the two ends and has a leading face having a plurality of openings upon which the flow generally impinges. The openings extend between the exterior surface and interior surface and are configured to receive a sensor.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 27, 2000
    Publication date: September 5, 2002
    Inventors: Dawn Key McFarland, Timothy John Turk, Andrew John Brewington, Lance Edward Groseclose, Pramod Khandelwal
  • Patent number: 6406180
    Abstract: The sensor has an outer member 10 formed with an upwardly directed hole 12 having an open upper end 14. An inner member in the form of a tube 16 is provided having a lower portion 18 positioned in the hole 12 and an upper portion 19 which projects above the outer member 10. Solar radiation applied to the upper portion 19 of the tube 16 creates a chimney effect which causes air to flow upwardly inside the tube 16 and downwardly from the open upper end 14 through a space 22 between the inner and outer members 10, 16. Sensing devices 24, 26 for sensing temperature and humidity are arranged within the outer member 10 and in the air flow path.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 9, 1999
    Date of Patent: June 18, 2002
    Assignee: BAE Systems (Defence Systems) Limited
    Inventors: Jeffery C. Walker, David K. Deedman, Nigel P. Fleming, Brian W. Oughton, Iain D. Sandoe, Paul M. Wilton
  • Patent number: 6390673
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for extending the life of a thermowell tube positioned in a hot gas duct to contain a thermocouple capable of measuring the temperature of a hot gas in the duct.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 10, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 21, 2002
    Assignee: Watson Cogeneration Company
    Inventor: John E. Camburn
  • Patent number: 6361206
    Abstract: A microsensor housing having a structure with at least one inlet at one end and a thermal property sensor at the other end. Situated between the inlet and the sensor is a convection shield. Sampled fluid is taken in the inlet from a channel carrying the fluid to be sampled. The convection flow lines of the fluid are barred by the convection shield. The fluid is diffused into a cavity between the shield and sensor. The sensor detects a thermal property of the diffused fluid. One preferred shield has holes about its perimeter with a solid center part of the shield covering at a distance the sensor. The channel carrying the fluid may have screens to reduce turbulence noise and to aid in fluid transport to and from the sensor housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 28, 1999
    Date of Patent: March 26, 2002
    Assignee: Honeywell International Inc.
    Inventor: Ulrich Bonne
  • Patent number: 6354734
    Abstract: An apparatus for accurate temperature and pressure measurement in production processes is described. In designing the temperture pressure probe, novel features are described which include minimization of the thermal mass of the thermal probe, thermal isolation of the thermal probe from its surroundings, and generating turbulence in the vicinity of the thermal probe where it comes in contact with the fluid flow. Embodiments disclosed for the pressure sensor include a recessed position where fluid pressure transients are minimized, and a surface mounted pressure sensor that is useful where the pressure sensor of the first embodiment is likely to get clogged due to fluid composition.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 4, 1999
    Date of Patent: March 12, 2002
    Assignee: Kvaerner Oilfield Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Christopher John Curran, Paul Frederick Kent, Robert Tyler, Iain Robert McFarlane
  • Patent number: 6322247
    Abstract: A microsensor housing having a structure with at least one inlet at one end and a thermal property sensor at the other end. Situated between the inlet and the sensor is a convection shield. Sampled fluid is taken in the inlet from a channel carrying the fluid to be sampled. The convection flow lines of the fluid are barred by the convection shield. The fluid is diffused into a cavity between the shield and sensor. The sensor detects a thermal property of the diffused fluid. One preferred shield has holes about its perimeter with a solid center part of the shield covering at a distance the sensor. The channel carrying the fluid may have screens to reduce turbulence noise and to aid in fluid transport to and from the sensor housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 5, 1999
    Date of Patent: November 27, 2001
    Assignee: Honeywell International Inc.
    Inventors: Ulrich Bonne, Michael J. Haji-Sheikh, Robert E. Higashi, Aravind Padmanabhan
  • Patent number: 6270253
    Abstract: A method and arrangement for measuring the temperature of hot gases present in a hot gas space. A portion of the hot gases is mixed in a mixing space arranged inside the hot gas space with a cooler gas. The temperature of the gas mixture is measured with a thermocouple which is provided in the mixing space. The gas mixture is guided past the thermocouple to determine the temperature of the hot gases from the measured temperature of the gas mixture. The hot gas space is located in the combustion chamber of a gas turbine.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 31, 1999
    Date of Patent: August 7, 2001
    Assignee: Asea Brown Boveri AG
    Inventor: Jakob Keller
  • Patent number: 6250801
    Abstract: The invention concerns a probe (S) for measuring physical parameters of a fluid flow generally directed rearwards of the probe, the probe comprising a structure (10, 20) bearing at least a sensor (C). The invention is characterised in that said structure comprises a part (20) whereof a leading edge (22) extends generally frontwards of the sensor and has a shape adapted to generate a vortex, and the sensor extends in the axial region of said vortex.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 24, 2000
    Date of Patent: June 26, 2001
    Assignee: Auxitrol S.A.
    Inventor: Marc Bernard
  • Patent number: 6234670
    Abstract: Apparatus for sensing the temperature of a flowing liquid includes a molded plastic fitting having a stream divider extending across a liquid flow passage. A temperature sensor encapsulated in the stream divider senses the temperature of a liquid stream flowing through the passage as the stream is split to flow past the stream divider.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 25, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 22, 2001
    Assignee: Therm-O-Disc, Incorporated
    Inventor: Gary D. Bergeron
  • Patent number: 6135634
    Abstract: A temperature probe for use in a product flow line including a valve seat secured in the flow line, a valve stem and an orifice ring. The orifice ring is attached to the valve stem to define a pair of flow paths for product passing through the product flow line. One flow path is through the ring and the other is between the ring and the valve seat. A temperature sensing probe is carried by the valve stem and positioned in the orifice ring for sensing the temperature of the product in the flow line. A spring is connected to act on the valve stem and is responsive to changes in velocity of the product in the flow line to move the orifice ring toward and away from the valve seat to maintain the velocity of the product flowing past the probe constant.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 19, 1999
    Date of Patent: October 24, 2000
    Assignee: FMC Corporation
    Inventors: Lloyd F. Hay, Thomas L. Dambak
  • Patent number: 6132085
    Abstract: Apparatus for sensing the temperature of a flowing liquid includes a molded plastic fitting having a stream divider extending across a liquid flow passage. A temperature sensor encapsulated in the stream divider senses the temperature of a liquid stream flowing through the passage as the stream is split to flow past the stream divider.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 10, 1998
    Date of Patent: October 17, 2000
    Assignee: Therm-O-Disc, Incorporated
    Inventor: Gary D. Bergeron
  • Patent number: 6122678
    Abstract: A multifunction sensor device which provides various transducer functions including means for performing temperature sensing, ambient light sensing, motion detection, switching functions and a means to put the device in an on, off or auto mode. The device has utility in environments such as that found in offices, schools, homes, industrial plants or any other type of automated facility in which sensors are utilized for energy monitoring and control, end user convenience or HVAC control. Key elements of the invention include overcoming the difficulty of mounting diverse sensors or transducers within the same device or housing; permitting these various sensors to exist in a single package that can be mounted to a wall in a substantially flush manner; and eliminating the requirement of an air flow channel in the device, thus minimizing any adverse effects on the motion detecting element or sensor as well as providing built in partial hysteresis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 2, 1999
    Date of Patent: September 19, 2000
    Assignee: Leviton Manufacturing Co., Inc.
    Inventors: David P. Eckel, Gaetano Bonasia, James A. Porter
  • Patent number: 6082894
    Abstract: A temperature and passive infrared sensor module in which a temperature sensor is mounted so as to not be adversely affected by heat generating electrical components of the sensor module. One embodiment comprises a wallswitch-mounted unit which is designed to be mounted in a wallswitch electrical outlet box with a semi-cylindrical front of the sensor projecting forwardly therefrom. A top section of the projecting semi-cylindrical front has a front curved window, behind which a passive infrared sensor and an ambient light sensor are positioned. A bottom section of the projecting semi-cylindrical front is formed by a removable clip-in door which is provided with air flow vents in a bottom surface and also in projecting front and side surfaces thereof to provide a circulating air flow around a temperature sensor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 29, 1998
    Date of Patent: July 4, 2000
    Assignee: Hubbell Incorporated
    Inventors: Thomas J. Batko, John R. Baldwin
  • Patent number: 6076963
    Abstract: Aircraft probe assemblies integrally include a total airstream temperature sensor. Preferred embodiments include at least one pressure sensing port and a temperature sensing port which are in fluid communication with a pressure sensing chamber and a temperature sensing chamber, respectively. A temperature sensor may thus be disposed in the temperature sensing chamber so as to sense the temperature of the in-flight air flow. The temperature sensor is most preferably shielded thermally from the probe element. Specifically, the temperature sensor is most preferably coaxially surrounded by a generally cylindrical thermal shield structure having airflow inlet and outlet apertures. The thermal shield thereby prevents the temperature of the probe element (which may be heated by an integral electrical resistance heater during potential in-flight icing conditions) from affecting the airflow temperature data obtained by the temperature sensor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 20, 1998
    Date of Patent: June 20, 2000
    Assignee: Avionics Specialties, Inc.
    Inventors: Margaret A. Menzies, Guntis U. Baltins
  • Patent number: 6042120
    Abstract: Instead of applying the maximum cooling effect that can be produced, the method and apparatus disclosed applies only a carefully controlled cooling that is adequate to maintain the fluid in the pipe in a frozen condition but which maintains the temperature high enough to prevent damage to the metallurgical structure of the pipe. At the same time, the apparatus creates permanent documentation of the temperatures at selected stations along the pipe throughout the process, thereby providing proof that the pipe sustained no thermal damage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 25, 1997
    Date of Patent: March 28, 2000
    Assignee: Jeffrey E. Bonner
    Inventor: Christopher J. Oles
  • Patent number: 6015232
    Abstract: A temperature probe for use in a product flow line including a valve seat secured in the flow line, a valve stem and an orifice ring. The orifice ring is attached to the valve stem to define a pair of flow paths for product passing through the product flow line. One flow path is through the ring and the other is between the ring and the valve seat. A temperature sensing probe is carried by the valve stem and positioned in the orifice ring for sensing the temperature of the product in the flow line. A spring is connected to act on the valve stem and is responsive to changes in velocity of the product in the flow line to move the orifice ring toward and away from the valve seat to maintain the velocity of the product flowing past the probe constant.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 19, 1998
    Date of Patent: January 18, 2000
    Assignee: FMC Corporation
    Inventors: Lloyd F. Hay, Thomas L. Dambak
  • Patent number: 5980102
    Abstract: A fluid-filled pipe is investigated by a non-intrusive procedure to determine whether the fluid is liquid or gaseous, whether it is flowing or static, the direction of flow if it is flowing, the approximate pressure if it is a gas, and the rate of flow if it is a gas. The results are obtained by applying a heater to the surface of the pipeline and measuring the upstream and downstream temperatures of the surface of the pipe wall before and after the beginning of the application of heat. Some of the data generated is compared with data from another source to assist in the determination of the characteristics to be ascertained.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 16, 1996
    Date of Patent: November 9, 1999
    Assignee: Columbia Gas of Ohio
    Inventors: Foster B. Stulen, Susan T. Brown, Glenda S. Holderbaum, David B. Philips, Arthur C. Eberle
  • Patent number: 5836693
    Abstract: A fluid-filled pipe is investigated by a nonintrusive procedure to determine whether the fluid is liquid or gaseous, whether it is flowing or static, the direction of flow if it is flowing, the approximate pressure if it is a gas, and the rate of flow if it is a gas. The results are obtained by applying a heater to the surface of the pipeline and measuring the upstream and downstream temperatures of the surface of the pipe wall before and after the beginning of the application of heat. Some of the data generated is compared with data from another source to assist in the determination of the physical characteristics to be ascertained.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 23, 1996
    Date of Patent: November 17, 1998
    Assignee: Columbia Gas of Ohio,Inc.
    Inventors: Foster B. Stulen, Susan T. Brown, Glenda S. Holderbaum, David B. Philips, Arthur C. Eberle
  • Patent number: 5785284
    Abstract: A heating and/or air conditioning installation for a motor vehicle includes a wall having a through hole. A temperature sensor has a heat sensitive element lying in a housing, which may for example be formed in an evaporator of the air conditioning installation. The sensor has protruding connecting wires surrounded by a sheath, and is attached through the hole in the wall by a fastening device. The fastening device comprises a tubular body portion adapted to be removably held fast in the hole, together with a sleeve portion joined to the inside of the body portion and having a passage through which the sheath passes. The sleeve portion has a narrow end which grips the sheath, and a wide end facing towards the heat sensitive element and affording some freedom of lateral movement to the connecting wires.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 26, 1996
    Date of Patent: July 28, 1998
    Assignee: Valeo Climatisation
    Inventors: Mario Cesari, Pascal Cloteaux, Jean-Pierre Collgon
  • Patent number: 5772326
    Abstract: A temperature and passive infrared sensor module comprising a sensor module housing having air flow vents therein in top and bottom or side surfaces to allow air to circulate through the sensor module housing. A temperature sensor is mounted in the sensor module housing in a position which is exposed to air circulating through the sensor module housing. A passive infrared sensor is also mounted in the sensor module housing in a manner in which it is not exposed to air circulating through the sensor module housing, such that it is not adversely affected thereby. In one embodiment, a foam block is positioned around to encase and isolate the passive infrared detector. In several embodiments, the passive infrared sensor and temperature sensor are mounted on opposite sides of the printed circuit board such that air circulates around the temperature sensor only on one side of the printed circuit board.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 30, 1996
    Date of Patent: June 30, 1998
    Assignee: Hubbell Incorporated
    Inventors: Thomas J. Batko, David P. Eckel
  • Patent number: 5718512
    Abstract: In a high-temperature probe (1) which is used in particular in a hot-gas flow (24) up to about 1550.degree. C., a sensor tube (19) and a support tube (6) are in each case arranged in an inner bore (2a, 2b) of a probe tube (2). The bore (2a) for the sensor tube (19), in which a temperature sensor (34) is arranged, ends in a throughflow passage (3b) for the hot-gas flow (24). The bore (2b) for the support tube (6) ends in an enlarged bore (4) of the probe tube (2), in which enlarged bore (4) a ring (8) of the support tube (6) is arranged. The support tube (6) and the sensor tube (19) project through bores (12a, 31a) of a flange (13) into a region called the plenum (27), a screw (18) being screwed in place in an internal thread (11) at the tip (28) of the support tube (6). A preloaded spring (17) which holds the high-temperature probe (1) together in a flexible manner sits between this screw (18) and a flange (14) which is connected to the flange (13) via a tubular socket (12).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 17, 1996
    Date of Patent: February 17, 1998
    Assignee: Asea Brown Boveri AG
    Inventor: Ung Lap Ngo-Beelmann
  • Patent number: 5653538
    Abstract: A temperature probe has a sensor housing with a sensor head and an associated scoop, together forming a primary airflow path, with the sensor head containing a sample chamber for the thermal sensor. Gaseous fluid is caused to pass through the primary airflow path, where its pressure is increased. The sample chamber is adjacent to the primary airflow path and configured to draw a sample of the flowing gaseous fluid out of the primary airflow path and bring it to and through the sampling chamber, while maintaining the sampled flow at essentially the same immersion depth as the primary airflow path. The sensor is connected to the housing and extends into the sampling chamber so that the gaseous fluid flows across the sensor's axis and sensing surface, rather than along the sensor's longitudinal axis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 7, 1995
    Date of Patent: August 5, 1997
    Assignee: Rosemount Aerospace Inc.
    Inventor: Richard W. Phillips
  • Patent number: 5645348
    Abstract: A fluid-filled pipe is investigated by a non-intrusive procedure to determine whether the fluid is liquid or gaseous, whether it is flowing or static, the direction of flow if it is flowing, the approximate pressure if it is a gas, and the rate of flow if it is a gas. The results are obtained by applying a heater to the surface of the pipeline and measuring the upstream and downstream temperatures of the surface of the pipe wall before and after the beginning of the application of heat. Some of the data generated is compared with data from another source to assist in the determination of the physical characteristics to be ascertained.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 20, 1994
    Date of Patent: July 8, 1997
    Assignee: Columbia Gas of Ohio, Inc.
    Inventors: Foster B. Stulen, Susan T. Brown, Glenda S. Holderbaum, David B. Philips, Arthur C. Eberle
  • Patent number: 5632556
    Abstract: A thermowell apparatus for a Petrochemical Application where a temperature sensing probe is used for a high temperature cracking furnace. The sensing probe is mounted on a flow line of the furnace fired processing unit. The tip member of the probe extends into the cross-section of the pipe. The probe member has a tear shaped design in transverse cross-section which is arranged with a leading edge surface to deflect the fluid flow and thereby increase the life expectancy of the tip member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 16, 1994
    Date of Patent: May 27, 1997
    Assignee: Sivco, Inc.
    Inventor: Robert B. Sivyer
  • Patent number: 5628565
    Abstract: An aerodynamic air data sensing probe adapted for mounting to an air vehicle and capable of generating signals related to a fluid flowing relative to the air vehicle. A fluid inlet positioned on a first end of the strut faces generally transverse to the fluid flow selectively admits fluid to an internal strut cavity due to a pressure differential thereacross. In operation, the pressure differential forms between the first end surface of the aerodynamically-shaped, forward-inclined strut and probe exhaust ports. A temperature sensing element disposed in the internal strut cavity registers the temperature of the fluid and the sensed fluid is expelled from the internal strut cavity through the exhaust ports. In another embodiment, a barrel-shaped probe head adapted to sense fluid pressure connects to a portion of the leading edge of the strut to form an aerodynamic multifunction air data sensing probe.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 2, 1995
    Date of Patent: May 13, 1997
    Assignee: The B.F. Goodrich Company
    Inventors: Floyd W. Hagen, Gregg A. Hohenstein, John A. Severson, Pennelle J. Trongard
  • Patent number: 5533348
    Abstract: An average temperature sensor designed for use in an air conditioning unit, wherein the air conditioning unit has a high pressure region and a low pressure region and a method for making an average temperature measurement. The average temperature sensor senses the average temperature of air flowing in the high pressure region and comprises a device for conveying a flow of air that is in fluid communication with the high pressure region. A temperature sensor is disposed in a temperature sensing relationship to the device for conveying the flow or air. The high pressure in the high pressure region induces a flow of air in the device for conveying a flow of air. This flow of air flows from the high pressure region to the low pressure region and is at the average temperature of the air in the high pressure region.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 26, 1994
    Date of Patent: July 9, 1996
    Assignee: American Standard Inc.
    Inventors: Joe M. Baldwin, Dale C. Cotton
  • Patent number: 5466067
    Abstract: An aerodynamic air data sensing probe adapted for mounting to an air vehicle and capable of generating signals related to a fluid flowing relative to the air vehicle. A fluid inlet positioned on a first end of the strut faces generally transverse to the fluid flow selectively admits fluid to an internal strut cavity due to a pressure differential thereacross. In operation, the pressure differential forms between the first end surface of the aerodynamically-shaped, forward-inclined strut and probe exhaust ports. A temperature sensing element disposed in the internal strut cavity registers the temperature of the fluid and the sensed fluid is expelled from the internal strut cavity through the exhaust ports. In another embodiment, a barrel-shaped probe head adapted to sense fluid pressure connects to a portion of the leading edge of the strut to form an aerodynamic multifunction air data sensing probe.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 17, 1993
    Date of Patent: November 14, 1995
    Assignee: The B. F. Goodrich Company
    Inventors: Floyd W. Hagen, Gregg A. Hohenstein, John A. Severson, Pennelle J. Trongard
  • Patent number: 5449234
    Abstract: The present invention provides an apparatus for sensing the temperature of surrounding air. The apparatus is thermally isolated from the external environment and more accurately provides an indication of the medium temperature while providing fast response. The apparatus includes a temperature sensing device whose resistance varies with temperature and a conditioning circuit for measuring the resistance and producing an electrical signal which is insensitive to external resistive loading and which has a magnitude responsive to the sensed resistance. The apparatus includes a non-metallic housing which encapsulates the temperature sensitive device and the conditioning circuit. The housing forms a cage portion which surrounds the temperature sensing device and is adapted to protect and to provide air flow to the temperature sensing device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 29, 1993
    Date of Patent: September 12, 1995
    Assignee: Caterpillar Inc.
    Inventors: Gregory H. Gipp, Ronald R. Gustin
  • Patent number: 5356219
    Abstract: The instrumentation probe of the present invention comprises a tubular housing for enclosing a sensing element, the tubular housing being adapted to project into a process stream. The tubular housing is surrounded by an outer casing that has its longitudinal axis transverse to the longitudinal axis of the tubular housing and which outer casing is aerodynamically shaped to be substantially non-disruptive of the flow of the process stream while protecting the tubular housing from erosion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 1993
    Date of Patent: October 18, 1994
    Assignee: Exxon Research and Engineering Company
    Inventors: Robert F. Tammera, Donald F. Shaw
  • Patent number: 5348395
    Abstract: An aspirating or suction pyrometer for measuring hot combustion gases. A thermocouple in the pyrometer has a temperature sensitive junction formed of platinum alloys. The thermocouple junction is insulated and is encased within a platinum alloy sheath. The sheathed thermocouple is mounted within inner and outer tubular radiation shields. These shields are formed of a platinum alloy having a radiation emissivity substantially the same as the thermocouple. The shields block radiated heat from the flame and combustion chamber from being transferred to the thermocouple. The radiation shields do not themselves radiate heat to the thermocouple because the shields and thermocouple are at the same temperature and formed of substantially the same noble alloys.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 11, 1992
    Date of Patent: September 20, 1994
    Assignee: General Electric Company
    Inventors: Robert A. Corr, II, Joseph Citeno
  • Patent number: 5302026
    Abstract: A temperature probe measures the temperature of a fluid which moves relative to the probe. The probe includes a housing, a transducer, and one or more fins. The housing has a bore with a bore axis and carries at least a portion of the fluid along the bore axis. The transducer has a sensing length, and the fin thermally couples to the transducer along substantially the entire sensing length. The fin is also substantially aligned with the bore axis to promote laminar flow of the fluid in the bore. In a preferred embodiment the transducer is held within a protective tube, and the fin attaches to the tube along a fin inner edge. The fin also attaches along a fin outer edge to a radiation shield encircling the tube, the fin outer edge being shorter than the fin inner edge.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 29, 1993
    Date of Patent: April 12, 1994
    Assignee: Rosemount, Inc.
    Inventor: Richard W. Phillips
  • Patent number: 5158365
    Abstract: A measuring probe for taking gas samples and/or making temperature measurements in furnace charges that are hot and/or have gas flowing through them, for example in blast furnaces, comprises a measuring head axially movable in a water-cooled sampling tube and having a thermocouple in a gas inlet opening, said head consisting at least in part of an alloy containing at least 90% molybdenum and characterized by a long service life.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 4, 1991
    Date of Patent: October 27, 1992
    Assignee: Dango & Dienenthal Maschinenbau GmbH
    Inventor: Hans-Otto Kreuz
  • Patent number: 5116137
    Abstract: An apparatus and process for a temperature measuring pyrometer probe that measures gas temperatures above the melting point of conventional thermocouple material. The apparatus is used to calculate radiation heat losses and compensate for pneumatic cooling from the thermocouple junction of the pyrometer probe. The pyrometer probe has an inner hollow body which defines an inner chamber. The inner hollow body has an open end and the inner chamber is in communication with ambient gas surrounding the pyrometer probe. The inner hollow body is mounted within an outer hollow body and such mounting defines cooling channels. The cooling channels accommodate fluid flow which cools the inner hollow body. The ambient gas is directed into a converging-diverging nozzle, mounted within the inner hollow body, toward a thermocouple junction. The converging-diverging nozzle has a wall suction channel through which a boundary layer of the ambient gas is drawn away from the thermocouple junction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 29, 1990
    Date of Patent: May 26, 1992
    Assignee: Institute of Gas Technology
    Inventors: Tian-Yu Xiong, Lloyd McHie
  • Patent number: 5108193
    Abstract: A thermal flow sensor comprising a substrate which can be etched, an electrical insulating film which is formed on said substrate and which has an etching characteristic different from that of said substrate, a heating resistor which is disposed on said insulating film, and a fluid temperature sensing resistor which is disposed on said insulating film at a certain distance from said heating resistor, the portion of said substrate corresponding to at least one of the heating resistor and the fluid temperature sensing resistor and the vicinity thereof being etched.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 23, 1991
    Date of Patent: April 28, 1992
    Assignee: Sharp Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventor: Hisatoshi Furubayashi