Pressure Patents (Class 374/143)
  • Patent number: 6494616
    Abstract: A sensor array includes a plurality of sensors connected to two or more groups of wires such that individual sensors can be addressed. No two sensors are connected to the same two wires. The groups of wires are connected to multiplexers or the like to address particular wires connecting a unique sensor. Dramatically improved accuracy is obtained by connecting rectifiers in series with the sensors to significantly reduce reverse current through a sensor that can lead to significant errors.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 4, 2000
    Date of Patent: December 17, 2002
    Assignee: Regents of the University of Minnesota
    Inventors: Eugene Tokhtuev, Robert M. Carlson, Christopher J. Owen, Anatoly Skirda, Viktor Slobodyan, Alexander Tokhtuev
  • Patent number: 6394647
    Abstract: The invention provides for a method and device for determining a gas pressure and temperature in a hollow space, including a fuel/air mix in an internal combustion engine combustion chamber. According to the invention, pressure and temperature are detected by means of a measuring element (5) of an ultrasound transducer/pressure sensor combined unit, said measuring element acting both as a pressure measuring element and an ultrasound transducer element to determine temperature. Therefor, said measuring element can be operated at given moments, on one hand as a pressure measuring element and on the other hand as an ultrasound transducer element or continuously, as a pressure measuring element, and furthermore as an ultra-sound transducer element superimposed with the latter. In that case, it is provided that signals should be conveniently separated for the measuring element output signal. The invention can be used, for instance, to determine air volumes for car internal combustion engines.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 17, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 28, 2002
    Assignee: DaimlerChrysler AG
    Inventors: Klaus Allmendinger, Martin Hart, Robert Loisch, Matthias Scherer
  • 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
  • Publication number: 20020009119
    Abstract: A portable stress monitor is provided for monitoring conditions under which physiological activity is occurring. The conditions monitored may be environmental, such as ambient temperature and humidity, or physiological, such as heart rate or body temperature. The monitor includes a main body portion and a hinged cover. The hinged cover includes a removable sensor module. One or more sensors are attached to the sensor module, each sensor may be pivotally mounted on a mast, such that the sensors extend outwardly from the hinged cover when the sensor module is in the deployed position and may be pivoted to sit substantially flush with the hinged cover when the sensor module is in the storage position. A central processing unit is contained within the main body, and is operable to process data acquired by the sensors according to a heat strain algorithm. A display is attached to the outer surface of the main body for providing read out information, and an input device is provided for user input.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 12, 2001
    Publication date: January 24, 2002
    Inventors: William T. Matthew, Leander A. Stroschein, Joseph M. McGrath
  • Patent number: 6329825
    Abstract: A pressure detecting bridge circuit produces a sensor signal Sd. A temperature detecting bridge circuit produces a temperature signal St. A reference voltage generating circuit produces a reference signal Sa. An analog multiplexer processes these signals Sd, St and Sa in a time-divisional manner. A differential amplification circuit and an A/D conversion circuit are commonly used to obtain the digital data corresponding to the sensor signal Sd, the temperature signal St and the reference signal Sa. The temperature detecting bridge circuit includes reference resistance elements. By adjusting the design resistance values of the reference resistance elements, the variation width of the sensor signal Sd in a pressure measuring range of the pressure detecting bridge circuit is substantially equalized in advance with the variation width of the temperature signal St in a temperature measuring range of the temperature detecting bridge circuit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 16, 1999
    Date of Patent: December 11, 2001
    Assignee: Denso Corporation
    Inventors: Hiroaki Tanaka, Inao Toyoda
  • Patent number: 6299349
    Abstract: The invention pertains to a pressure and temperature sensor, in particular for determining a pressure and temperature condition in a cavity of an injection molding apparatus or the like having a pressure body which co-operates with a sensor housing and which in a mounted condition can be acted upon by a pressure in the cavity and which is intended for transmitting the pressure to a piezoelectrically acting sensor arrangement, wherein an electrical signal generated by the sensor arrangement as a reaction to the pressure is taken out of the sensor housing by means of an electrical contact device, wherein a thermoelectric detector element is fitted in the pressure body and an electrical temperature signal generated by the detector element is taken out by way of the electrical contact device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 14, 1999
    Date of Patent: October 9, 2001
    Assignee: Steinel AG
    Inventors: Heinrich Wolfgang Steinel, Ekkehart Nier
  • Patent number: 6205846
    Abstract: In the method, pairs of pressure and temperature values are recorded using a pressure sensor and a temperature sensor fixed to a case from the outside and communicating with a dielectric gas, thereby enabling a density value to be calculated for the dielectric gas corresponding to each recorded pair of values. Simultaneously with making the pressure and temperature records, an electric current flowing through an electrical apparatus located inside the case and a climate parameter relating to the medium in which the case is located are also recorded for the purpose of giving each density value an index, thereby enabling a leakage rate to be determined with improved accuracy on the basis of indexed leakage rates, each of which is obtained from density values all having the same index.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 22, 1998
    Date of Patent: March 27, 2001
    Assignee: GEC Alsthom T&D SA
    Inventors: Jean-Pierre Dupraz, Edmond Thuries
  • Patent number: 6125692
    Abstract: A density sensor for monitoring a rate of leakage from the case of electrical switchgear filled with dielectric gas under pressure, the sensor comprising a fixing support mounted from the outside in the thickness of the case and communicating with the dielectric gas. A radiator is placed around the fixing support of the density sensor, thereby enabling a measurement artifact that is due to the exposure of the case and of the sensor to solar radiation to be transformed in such a manner that any risk of untimely crossing of a low density threshold is eliminated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 22, 1998
    Date of Patent: October 3, 2000
    Assignee: GEC Alsthom T & D SA
    Inventor: Jean Marmonier
  • 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: 6062087
    Abstract: Apparatus is provided for sensing the pressure and temperature of fluid within a cavity of a block, such as hot plastic that flows into a mold cavity. The apparatus includes a piston (30) lying closely but slideably within a bore that extends from the cavity in the block. The outer end of the piston is coupled through a beam structure (36), in a shape of a diaphragm, to a rigid support (40). A strain gauge (44) mounted on the diaphragm senses piston deflection which is proportional to the pressure of fluid in the cavity. A highly heat conductive rod (80) extends through a hole in the middle of the piston, the rod having an inner end (84) that is flush with the piston and the rod having an outer end (86) joined at a thermocouple joint (92), so the temperature of the rod is sensed by the thermocouple to thereby sense the temperature of material in the cavity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 23, 1998
    Date of Patent: May 16, 2000
    Assignee: ITT Manufacturing Enterprises, Inc.
    Inventor: Terry Vovan
  • Patent number: 5988876
    Abstract: Temperature of an airflow for an inflatable thermal device is measured near where the temperature is delivered to the device through an air hose by a method that simulates the frictional airflow resistance of the device. According to the method, an airflow resistor is receivable on that end of an hose that connects to an inflatable thermal device. The airflow resistor has a defined airflow resistance that corresponds to the airflow resistance of the inflatable thermal device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 20, 1998
    Date of Patent: November 23, 1999
    Assignee: Augustine Medical, Inc.
    Inventor: Albert Van Duren
  • Patent number: 5975842
    Abstract: A sensing device for measuring temperature and pressure of a fluid medium in a pump housing. The device includes a common housing for containing a temperature sensor and a differential pressure sensor. The housing includes a temperature-sensor housing portion and a pressure-sensor housing portion disposed along a common axis. The temperature-sensor housing portion has a substantially cylindrically shaped projection configured for insertion into a corresponding bore in the pump housing and which sealingly encapsulates the temperature sensor therewithin. The projection has pressure measurement apertures defined in its side wall near the free end of the projection for communicating fluid pressures in the pump housing to the differential pressure sensor which is sealingly enclosed within the pressure-sensor housing portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 14, 1998
    Date of Patent: November 2, 1999
    Assignee: Grundfos a/s
    Inventors: Niels Due Jensen, J.o slashed.rgen Schmidt
  • Patent number: 5895861
    Abstract: A gauge for the measurement of both pressure and temperature of a fluid includes a dial plate having pressure and temperature graduations thereon, a first Bourdon tube for measuring pressure and a second Bourdon tube for measuring temperature. The Bourdon tubes are of conventional multiturn spiral construction, each having an open end which communicates with a source of pressure and a closed free end that rotationally responds to changes in pressure within the Bourdon tube. The open ends of the Bourdon tubes are mounted in fixed relation to the dial plate. Attached to the free end of each Bourdon tube is a direct coupled indicating pointer which is rotationally displaceable relative to corresponding graduations on the dial plate. A temperature responsive bulb is connected via a capillary tube to the open end of the second spiral Bourdon tube and forms a closed temperature sensing system therewith.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 19, 1997
    Date of Patent: April 20, 1999
    Assignee: Weiss Instruments, Inc.
    Inventor: William H. Slonaker
  • Patent number: 5844130
    Abstract: A vehicle including a frame member and a vehicle wheel mounted for rotation relative to the frame member about a rotation axis. The vehicle also includes a transmitting circuit mounted on a one of the frame member and the vehicle wheel. The transmitting circuit includes an antenna coil having a diameter. A ferrite core is mounted adjacent the transmitting circuit on the one of the frame member and the vehicle wheel. A non-planar, curved antenna coil is mounted on the other of the frame member and the vehicle wheel. The non-planar, curved antenna coil has a radius of curvature that is approximately equivalent to the rotational pathway of the transmitting circuit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 24, 1997
    Date of Patent: December 1, 1998
    Assignee: SSI Technologies
    Inventors: Randy James Hilgart, Larry Duane Ridge, Robb Allan Peebles
  • Patent number: 5834641
    Abstract: The invention relates to a depth gauge for use in angling or sports fishery. The depth of a body of water may be measured therewith from its surface to its bottom, and/or the depth and the size of strata of water of different temperatures for the purpose of offering bait to different species of fish in their preferred environments, for instance at the bottom of a water or at a thermocline stratum. In accordance with the invention, a water-proof housing a temperature sensor, a pressure sensor, a digital evaluation circuit, a display and a program switch are provided within a water-proof housing and electrically interconnected in such a manner, that the measurement value about the depth of the water to its bottom and/or water strata marked by temperature differences of more than 3.degree. Kelvin are processed and stored by the digital evaluation circuit. By means of the program switch, the stored measurement data may be called up and rendered visible in the display.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 20, 1996
    Date of Patent: November 10, 1998
    Inventor: Bernd Sternal
  • Patent number: 5820262
    Abstract: A Refrigerant Sensor is provided that provides within a common assembly pressure, temperature and superheat measurements and calculations with respect to a refrigerant material. The Refrigerant Sensor includes a pressure transducer for measuring the pressure of the refrigerant material and a temperature transducer for measuring the temperature of the refrigerant material. The pressure and temperature measurements are used by a microprocessor to calculate the superheat value of the refrigerant material. The microprocessor is within the common assembly. The Refrigerant Sensor can send and receive information from the network and also calibrate the pressure and temperature measurements.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 5, 1996
    Date of Patent: October 13, 1998
    Assignee: Johnson Service Company
    Inventor: Thomas J. Lechner
  • Patent number: 5816708
    Abstract: In the thermometer of the present invention a hollow sensing element (9) is connected by a capillary tube (18) to the hollow space of a Bourdon spring (19). The hollow sensing element (9), the capillary tube (18) and the mechanical measuring unit are filled with a substance whose pressure varies with temperature thus causing the Bourdon spring (19) to actuate a mechanical indicating device (5, 6). The capillary tube (18) or the hollow space of the mechanical measuring unit (2) has connected thereto an electric measuring unit (3) which comprises a measuring chamber (15) enclosed by a rigid casing (12), an electric pressure measuring cell (16) bounding the measuring chamber (16), and an electric measuring transducer (4) connected to the pressure measuring cell (16) for generating a transmittable signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 24, 1997
    Date of Patent: October 6, 1998
    Inventor: Manfred Urich
  • Patent number: 5788925
    Abstract: The invention is a system and method for real-time monitoring and control of sterilization cycle parameters within a load-simulation device that simulates the same conditions as those within an acceptable standard challenge load to be sterilized. Integration of the device into the sterilizer control system allows critical sterilization parameter levels to be achieved and maintained within the simulated load throughout a sterilization cycle, thus resulting in a significant reduction in the number of unsuccessful cycles. A redundant parameter-monitoring system within the device is included. When acceptable sterilization parameter levels are shown to have been met, the sterile load is automatically released for use immediately upon completion of the cycle, thus eliminating the need for biological indicators and chemical integrators.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 16, 1996
    Date of Patent: August 4, 1998
    Assignee: Steris Corporation
    Inventors: Sanjeeth M. Pai, Peter E. Zell
  • Patent number: 5775807
    Abstract: Apparatus maximizing multitubular penetration of a pressure vessel wherein a plurality of tubular sections are series joined to and concentrically aligned with an opening of a pressure vessel, such tubular sections presenting an internal diameter being greater than the I.D. of the effective entrance into said vessel; and a plurality of thermocouple cables passing from outside said apparatus, and into said pressure vessel, said thermocouple cables being fixedly secured to pressure-retaining discs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 26, 1996
    Date of Patent: July 7, 1998
    Assignee: Gay Engineering & Sales Co., Inc.
    Inventor: Dale Eugene Dutcher
  • Patent number: 5731507
    Abstract: An air data sensing probe adapted for mounting to an aerodynamically-shaped airfoil or strut attached to an air vehicle. An inlet port located near the leading edge of the strut admits fluid, to a first cavity and then, in turn, to a second cavity, so that the total temperature of the fluid may be measured and a signal related thereto conveyed to suitable flight control gear. A first exhaust port located generally opposite the inlet port allows entrained particles to exit the probe and boundary layer fluid evacuation apertures formed through the strut across the interface between the two cavities permit only a substantially particle-free core sample of fluid on the temperature sensing element. The secondary cavity couples to the primary cavity at an angle so that inertial separation of entrained particles results.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 27, 1994
    Date of Patent: March 24, 1998
    Assignee: Rosemount Aerospace, Inc.
    Inventors: Floyd W. Hagen, Gregg A. Hohenstein, Pennelle J. Trongard
  • Patent number: 5702592
    Abstract: A filter monitoring device for use in monitoring the purity of a fluid through a filter includes a pressure differential sensing device in communication with the filter. The filter monitoring device defines an inlet port which is in communication with the supply of fluid upstream of the filter and an outlet port which is in communication with a supply of fluid downstream of the filter. The differential pressure sensing device comprises at least one movable device which is in contact with both the upstream and downstream supplies of fluid and moves in response to changes in the pressure differential of the fluid. Different total differential pressures are accommodated by corresponding stiffness of a biasing device. The differential pressure sensing device also comprises a distance sensing device which continuously measures or detects the distance of travel of the movable device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 20, 1995
    Date of Patent: December 30, 1997
    Assignee: Western Filter Corporation
    Inventors: Kanwar Suri, Z. Paul Akian
  • Patent number: 5677493
    Abstract: In a multiple function type differential pressure sensor including a semiconductor chip having a differential pressure detector for detecting a differential pressure, temperature detector for detecting a temperature, and static pressure detector for detecting a static pressure provided on a semiconductor substrate of a single chip, two or more pairs of differential pressure detectors means are incorporated, and a difference between outputs of the two or more pairs of differential pressure detectors is fetched out.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 22, 1996
    Date of Patent: October 14, 1997
    Assignee: Hitachi, Ltd.
    Inventors: Yoshimi Yamamoto, Tomoyuki Tobita, Akira Nagasu
  • Patent number: 5641231
    Abstract: A temperature monitoring apparatus has a plurality of cells held in contact with a heater unit having a temperature distribution, a plurality of pressure sensors for measuring pressure differences, a gas pipeline network connected between the plurality of cells and the plurality of pressure sensors and a data processing unit for calculating temperature differences between two of the plurality of cells on the basis of an initial temperature and an initial gas pressure of one of the plurality of cells measured before heating, and the temperature distribution measured by the temperature monitoring apparatus is accurate rather than a temperature monitoring apparatus using thermo couples.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 1995
    Date of Patent: June 24, 1997
    Assignee: NEC Corporation
    Inventor: Shoichi Inaba
  • 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: 5609418
    Abstract: A high resolution thermometer operated by the pressure of a solid/liquid se mixture is characterized by a vessel containing the mixture, a pressure sensor and a pressure indicator. A relatively small change in the temperature to be measured causes the proportion of solid and liquid in the vessel to change, thereby producing a dramatic change in pressure which can be measured with greater accuracy than the relatively small temperature change. Temperature is determined by converting the pressure to temperature using the appropriate thermodynamic relationship.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 6, 1994
    Date of Patent: March 11, 1997
    Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the Army
    Inventor: Patrick B. Black
  • Patent number: 5578993
    Abstract: A solid state temperature compensated annunciator is disclosed. The solid state temperature compensated annunciator includes a pressure sensor for measuring a pressure of the fillant within a vessel and a temperature sensor for measuring the temperature of the fillant within the vessel. The solid state temperature compensated annunciator determines a pressure that the vessel would have if the vessel were filled with a predetermined amount of fillant, and compares the measured pressure to the determined pressure. If the measured pressure is below the determined pressure, a warning signal is issued.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 28, 1994
    Date of Patent: November 26, 1996
    Assignees: Autronics Corporation, Mass Systems Inc.
    Inventors: Abdul N. Sitabkhan, James W. Tseng
  • Patent number: 5473937
    Abstract: A sensor assembly for use with automotive transmission systems includes an overmolded lead frame 10 having a plurality of sensing stations 16, 17 18, 19 20, 21 and 22. A temperature dependent resistor 32 is encapsulated in a post 42 integrally formed with the overmold at temperature sensor station 16. Post 42 is adapted to be received in a bore 68 cast in the transmission housing wall and serves as a datum to position the mounting holes of the assembly in alignment with selected bores in the transmission housing. Temperature sensing station 16 is circumscribed by an annular rib 52 which cooperates with a plurality of protrusions 62 to receive therebetween an O-ring seal member 54.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 14, 1993
    Date of Patent: December 12, 1995
    Assignee: Texas Instruments Incorporated
    Inventors: Claudine M. McCluskey, Alan M. Sadler, John J. Chrupcala
  • Patent number: 5465625
    Abstract: This invention relates to a heat measurement apparatus for inspecting therapeutic energy waves, e.g. shock waves or ultrasonic waves. The heat measurement apparatus for inspecting focal position and pressure of therapeutic energy waves comprises a heat sensing sheet which changes visually or electrically according to the heat, and a marker for setting the focal position, mounted on the heat sensing sheet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 26, 1994
    Date of Patent: November 14, 1995
    Assignee: Kabushiki Kaisha Toshiba
    Inventors: Katsuhiko Fujimoto, Satoshi Aida, Masamichi Oyanagi, Nobuki Kudo
  • Patent number: 5410908
    Abstract: A sensing circuit includes a passive electrical network which has a first electrical property responsive to fluid pressure, and a second electrical property responsive to fluid temperature. A network output is responsive to the first property to a first extent, and to the second property to a second extent. The first and second extents are related in the same manner as a physical property of the fluid (other than its pressure or temperature) relates to its pressure and temperature. The network can include a strain gage that has a gage factor relating the pressure in the fluid to the first electrical property, and a temperature coefficient of gage factor responsive to the fluid temperature. The network can operate according to a gas law and indicate the amount of gas in a tank.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 20, 1993
    Date of Patent: May 2, 1995
    Assignee: Data Instruments, Inc.
    Inventor: Herman W. Erichsen
  • Patent number: 5410448
    Abstract: A parallel air flow system which automatically maintains proper coolant flow regardless of the number of circuit boards installed in an enclosure. The enclosure is constructed such that air flow path through any one slot does not affect the air flow through any other slot. Proper air flow through the entire system is maintained by an air flow sensor disposed in an air flow path having a known air flow resistance. This sensor controls the speed of an air-mover in order to maintain a constant predetermined air flow through the known resistance, in such a way that a constant static air pressure is maintained at each slot. Baffle modules are preferably inserted into the enclosure to prevent air flow into any empty slots, to reduce the total air volume necessary to achieve the predetermined static pressure, thereby reducing the audible noise generated by the air-mover.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 10, 1993
    Date of Patent: April 25, 1995
    Assignee: Digital Equipment Corporation
    Inventors: Charles R. Barker, III, Richard E. Olson
  • Patent number: 5394345
    Abstract: The invention relates to a method of correcting the measurements of a pressure gauge for the influence of temperature transients. In a preferred embodiment, a correction term is added to the pressure value measured at an instant t, the correction term A.sub.O [T(t+.tau.)-T(t)] being proportional to the difference between the temperature T(t+.tau.) measured after a time interval of duration .tau. has elapsed from instant t, and the temperature T(t) at instant t. The invention is applicable to measurements in oil wells.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 13, 1994
    Date of Patent: February 28, 1995
    Assignee: Schlumberger Technology Corporation
    Inventors: Michel V. Berard, Pierre Eisenmann, Yoshinobu Jinzaki, Isabelle M. Dubourg
  • Patent number: 5388451
    Abstract: A high voltage switching apparatus 10 is described containing an arc-quenching gas containing sulphurhexafluoride in a vessel 12 that is monitored by a gas monitoring device 20. A temperature transducer 34 is attached to the exterior of the vessel 12 to sense the temperature of the gas. A gas line 24 leads from a control panel 18 to an enclosure 22 of the device 20. The device 20 has a front display panel with a digital communication terminal 42 for connecting to a computer to load and download data to and from the device 20 relating to the density of the gas within the vessel 12. The device 20 includes a data input module 44, a control module 46, a relay module 48, a display module 50 and a DC power supply module 52 mounted in an enclosure 22. The enclosure 22 has an internal heater 56 for maintaining the temperature within the enclosure above 20.degree. C.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 30, 1993
    Date of Patent: February 14, 1995
    Assignee: Consolidated Electronics Inc.
    Inventors: Anders M. Stendin, William J. Seaton, David A. Gwynne, Greg A. Lloyd
  • Patent number: 5359887
    Abstract: A coating material for wind tunnel luminescent barometry of surfaces such as airfoils and airframes uses a resin such as poly[1-(trimethylsilyl)propyne], or a siloxane polymer, to carry a pressure indicator. The pressure indicator may be photoluminescent ruthenium complex, such as [Ru(Ph.sub.2 phen).sub.2 ]Cl.sub.2, a photoluminescent platinum complex, such as PtOEP, and photoluminescent mixtures of pyrene and perylene.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 3, 1992
    Date of Patent: November 1, 1994
    Inventors: Scott D. Schwab, Ram L. Levy
  • Patent number: 5335540
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for measuring a physical quantity, property or condition and for transmitting a code representing the measured physical quantity, property or condition. The method includes the steps of developing a first signal in response to a physical quantity, property or condition, sampling the first signal to produce an instantaneous first signal value, assigning a first code to the instantaneous first signal value, and transmitting the first code for reception by a receiver. The method and apparatus are explained in connection with a vehicle tire monitoring apparatus wherein plurality of tire units measure tire pressures and temperatures and transmit values representing pressure and temperature to a central receiver located in a cab portion of the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 21, 1993
    Date of Patent: August 9, 1994
    Assignee: TTC Truck Tech Corp.
    Inventors: Paul R. Bowler, John Mackay, Shawn D. Lammers, Robert H. Fulton
  • Patent number: 5332316
    Abstract: The invention is drawn to methods and devices for measuring temperature with a simple probe, a single interrogating light source and a single photodetector in a manner that the same probe can be used for simultaneously sensing another physical parameter, using the same interrogating light source and the same photodetector. The invention also allows the use of a single probe for measuring temperature in two independent physical modes, using a single interrogating light source and a single photodetector. In a preferred embodiment the probe includes a photoluminescent material having a luminescence decay time which decreases substantially with increasing temperature over a temperature range within which its luminescence quantum efficiency remains approximately constant or varies only minimally.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 28, 1993
    Date of Patent: July 26, 1994
    Inventor: Marcos Y. Kleinerman
  • Patent number: 5324111
    Abstract: A steam flow meter provided with a steam flow rate detecting device and a steam pressure and temperature detecting device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 29, 1993
    Date of Patent: June 28, 1994
    Assignee: TLV Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Yoshihiko Hasegawa
  • Patent number: 5315876
    Abstract: A purge gas pressure monitoring system has a piezometer tube running from a pressure measuring instrument into a medium to be monitored. A temperature detector device extends the length of the piezometer tube. Outputs from the pressure measuring instrument and the temperature detector device are coupled to a central processing device or microcomputer for monitoring the outputs and using the outputs along with stored data to calculate a corrected pressure signal which is corrected for errors including errors arising as a result of variations of the average temperature along the piezometer line from a reference value.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 14, 1992
    Date of Patent: May 31, 1994
    Assignee: Fluid Data Systems
    Inventors: Eugene A. Glassey, Ralph A. Loh
  • Patent number: 5312186
    Abstract: A high temperature probe for sampling, for example, smokestack fumes, and is able to withstand temperatures of 3000.degree. F. The probe is constructed so as to prevent leakage via the seal by placing the seal inside the water jacket whereby the seal is not exposed to high temperature, which destroys the seal. The sample inlet of the probe is also provided with cooling fins about the area of the seal to provide additional cooling to prevent the seal from being destroyed. Also, a heated jacket is provided for maintaining the temperature of the gas being tested as it passes through the probe. The probe includes pressure sensing means for determining the flow velocity of an efficient being sampled. In addition, thermocouples are located in various places on the probe to monitor the temperature of the gas passing there through.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 4, 1992
    Date of Patent: May 17, 1994
    Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the United States Department of Energy
    Inventor: Raymond A. Swan
  • Patent number: 5309777
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a measuring instrument, in particular for measuring waste gases from heating installations, comprising at least one sensor and pump arranged in a measuring channel, a microcomputer for controlling the measuring sequence and for processing the sensor signals, which is connected to an alphanumeric display device and two control elements, wherein one control element serves for paging in a selection menu, by which one menu item is displayed on the display device, and wherein the other control element serves to input in accordance with the menu item displayed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 28, 1991
    Date of Patent: May 10, 1994
    Assignee: S & G Schmitt Messgeraetebau GmbH
    Inventors: Rudi Schmitt, Werner Schmitt
  • Patent number: 5299868
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for sensing temperature in an oil or gas well use an AC-cut temperature crystal connected to a Z-cut crystalline member contained in a crystalline housing that can be subjected to high pressures and temperatures.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 3, 1993
    Date of Patent: April 5, 1994
    Assignee: Halliburton Company
    Inventors: John R. Dennis, Charles D. Totty
  • Patent number: 5281026
    Abstract: A monitoring system for printed circuit boards which are air-cooled utilizes temperature sensors which have thermal diodes embedded directly into the integrated circuits. The thermal diodes are part of the fully-functioning integrated circuit which utilize voltages on the board for driving so that no added power sources are required. The thermal diode has a voltage which is inversely proportional to the temperature and can be calibrated so that a given voltage can be converted into a given temperature. This can be utilized by a logic controller to monitor and control cooling. Pressure sensors are also used with the temperature sensors to monitor air pressure along the ducts leading to the printed circuit boards. Pressure sensors also utilize voltages from the board for driving and have an amplification circuit to increase the signal. The pressure reading can also be utilized by a logic controller for controlling and monitoring the cooling of the boards.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 3, 1993
    Date of Patent: January 25, 1994
    Assignee: Cray Research, Inc.
    Inventors: Bradley W. Bartilson, Elliot F. Schlimme
  • Patent number: 5279162
    Abstract: This invention relates to a semiconductor sensor for detecting external physical forces, such as acceleration, contact pressures, air pressures, mechanical vibrations, etc. The semiconductor sensor according to this invention is characterized by the use of compound semiconductors of high piezoelectricity, such as GaAs, etc. Conventionally sensors of the cantilever type, diaphragm type, etc. are made of silicon. These prior art sensors have low detection sensitivity, and their characteristics tend to deteriorate. The sensor according to this invention is made of GaAs, which has high piezoelectricity and can retain good characteristics of the semiconductor even at high temperatures and includes a field-effect transistor formed on the GaAs for sensing a stress. The FET is driven by a constant current or a constant voltage so as to detect a change of an electrical characteristic (e.g., threshold characteristic) due to a stress.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 9, 1992
    Date of Patent: January 18, 1994
    Assignee: Honda Giken Kogyo Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Katsuhiko Takebe, Mizuho Doi, Hiroyasu Takehara, Satoshi Hiyama, Masanobu Urabe
  • Patent number: 5279161
    Abstract: A temperature compensating device is provided for a purge gas pressure monitoring system in which a piezometer line has an outlet end for submerging in a medium to be monitored and an opposite end for connection to a suitable pressure responsive instrument, with a purge gas supply connected to the line so as to supply purge gas as bubbles from the outlet end of the tube. A temperature detector device runs the length of the piezometer line to produce an output signal proportional to an average of the temperature along the length of the line. This may be a resistance temperature detector in the form of a U-shaped conductive wire with opposite legs of the U wound spirally in opposite directions along the length of the line with the connected end of the U being located at the outlet end of the tube. This provides a variable resistance which varies as a function of the average temperature, and which can be connected to conditioning circuitry for producing a desired temperature dependent output.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 14, 1992
    Date of Patent: January 18, 1994
    Assignee: Fluid Data Systems
    Inventors: Eugene A. Glassey, Ralph A. Loh
  • Patent number: 5271675
    Abstract: A system for characterizing the pressure, temperature, movement and flow patterns of a fluid under high pressure within a test cell. The test cell is lined internally with adjustable rock facings. Pressure is measured within the test cell using a device employing pressure-distortable optical fibers. Fluid velocity, flow direction, and filter-cake buildup are measured with laser Doppler velocimetry. The flow pattern of the fluid is viewed using corresponding arrays of transmitting and receiving optical fibers. Temperature of the fluid is estimated using a combination of thermal sensors. The pressure, velocity, viewing and temperature systems are integral to the rock facings of the test cell.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 22, 1992
    Date of Patent: December 21, 1993
    Assignee: Gas Research Institute
    Inventors: John E. Fagan, James J. Sluss, Jr., John W. Hassell, R. Brian Mears, Ronnie B. Beason, Sonja R. Wilkinson, Tommy Lear, Kok S. Tan
  • Patent number: 5259248
    Abstract: In an integrated multisensor used in a differential and static pressure transmitter, a pair of static pressure gages are formed on a static pressure detecting diaphragm and another pair of static pressure gages are formed at positions on a fixed portion which are near to the center of a differential pressure detecting diaphragm. The second term generated by a differential pressure appearing in a static pressure sensor is a function of a distance. Therefore, equal influence is exerted on each static pressure gage. Accordingly, by constructing a static pressure sensor so as to form a bridge circuit, a static pressure value free of the influence of a differential pressure can be detected, thereby making it possible to determine an accurate differential and static pressure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 19, 1991
    Date of Patent: November 9, 1993
    Assignee: Hitachi Ltd.
    Inventors: Seiichi Ugai, Satoshi Shimada, Tomoyuki Tobita, Akira Sase
  • Patent number: 5253532
    Abstract: A pressure transducer apparatus for use with low voltage supply source. A semiconductor piezoresistive strain gauge bridge provides an analog output of pressure variations which includes errors introduced by variations in the ambient temperature. A non-temperature-sensitive resistor across the bridge input is used to decrease the temperature dependent voltage change necessary for temperature compensation of the strain gauge bridge circuit output. Analog temperature adjustment means, provide as an output a current whose value changes concurrently and in direct proportion to the change occurring in the strain gauge bridge circuit current. An analog to digital converter has as its analog input the voltage output of the strain gauge bridge circuit, which is integrated over a first time period, and has as its reference input the temperature-adjusted output current from the analog temperature adjustment means which is integrated over a second time period.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 9, 1992
    Date of Patent: October 19, 1993
    Assignee: Timex Corporation
    Inventor: Bruce H. Kamens
  • Patent number: 5253512
    Abstract: The invention relates to a moisture meter tester for granular or powdered products including a cell for the product to be analyzed and a means of indirect measurement of the moisture connected to a unit for processing the measurements, the cell being adapted to be filled with and successively emptied of the product. The moisture meter of the invention is notable in that a hygrometric sensor is arranged so as to be capable of being in contact with the air surrounding the product to be analyzed, and that the sensor is connected to the measurement processing unit in order to make corrections to the values for the apparent moisture measured by the indirect measurement means. The invention also relates to a method using such a moisture tester.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 11, 1992
    Date of Patent: October 19, 1993
    Assignee: Star Partners
    Inventor: Dominique Le Gigan
  • Patent number: 5239865
    Abstract: A process for monitoring the coolant level in a cooling system, in particular in a motor vehicle in which the relative pressure and the temperature of the coolant are measured on the high-pressure side of the coolant circuit, using the measured pressure value. A temperature assigned to the pressure value is established on the basis of a coolant specific function (temperature=f (pressure)) and the undercooling of the coolant is then determined by subtracting the measured temperature from the assigned temperature, which undercooling is analyzed as a measure for the coolant level.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 30, 1992
    Date of Patent: August 31, 1993
    Assignee: Mercedes-Benz AG
    Inventors: Werner Salzer, Herbert Wieszt
  • Patent number: 5231880
    Abstract: A pressure transducer including a first pressure crystal, a second temperature crystal, a third reference crystal and associated electronics. All three crystals resonate in the thickness-shear mode.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 15, 1992
    Date of Patent: August 3, 1993
    Assignee: Quartzdyne, Inc.
    Inventors: Roger W. Ward, Robert B. Wiggins
  • Patent number: 5228337
    Abstract: Vehicle wheel tire inflation pressure, e.g. an aircraft undercarriage wheel tire, is measured in real time by a sensor assembly mounted on a rotary part of the wheel. The assembly includes a piezoresistive cell exposed to inflation gas pressure and an electronics module comprising an assembly of three printed circuit boards (PCB). A power signal transmitted from the vehicle to the electronics module via a rotary transformer is conditioned by PCB to provide an energising signal for the cell. Pressure and temperature signals output by the cell are received by the PCB and converted to digital form before being applied to address locations in a look-up table of PCB which holds pre-calibrated cell outputs. Data from the look-up table is processed to obtain a corrected real time pressure value which is transmitted to the vehicle. If desired, a temperature value may also be transmitted.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 2, 1992
    Date of Patent: July 20, 1993
    Assignee: Westland Aerostructures, Ltd.
    Inventors: Brian A. J. Sharpe, Michael G. Blee