With Fluid Carrying Conduit (e.g., Shower Pipe) Patents (Class 374/147)
  • Patent number: 6655833
    Abstract: The present invention relates to an arrangement (1) for calculating the temperature T in a driver's compartment (2) of a vehicle. The arrangement (1) incorporates a temperature sensor (4) arranged in a duct (5) and means (6) designed to allow an air flow from said driver's compartment (2) to pass through said duct (5), and said temperature sensor (4) is designed to measure a first temperature level T1 of said airflow. Said means (6) are also designed to halt said air flow for a period of time and said temperature sensor (4) is designed to measure, towards the end of said period of time, a second temperature level T2. The temperature T is calculated on the basis of said first temperature level T1 and said second temperature level T2.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 26, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 2, 2003
    Assignee: Scania CV AB (publ)
    Inventor: Sven Anders Melin
  • Patent number: 6641305
    Abstract: A tap water temperature measuring device. The device includes a tube device having first and second ends and a straight bore there through, a multi-connector attached to the first end of the tube device, a filter attached to the second end of the tube device 20, and an integrated circuit board connected to the tube device 20. A circuit activation probe is connected to the integrated circuit board. The circuit activation probe includes a water sensing probe and a temperature probe. The water sensing probe and the temperature probe extend into the straight bore of the tube device such that the circuit activation probe is only activated when the water sensing probe detects the presence of water in the bore of the tube device, after which, the temperature probe is activated to transmit a temperature reading to the integrated circuit board.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 15, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 4, 2003
    Assignee: King-I Electromechanical Industry Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: David Wang
  • Patent number: 6641304
    Abstract: A hose for carrying liquid, such as hot melt adhesive, within a predetermined elevated temperature range. The hose includes a tube or body portion which has an inlet end adapted to connect to a source of liquid, such as a supply tank, and a discharge end adapted to a connect to a liquid dispensing apparatus, such as an adhesive dispensing gun. At least two temperature sensing devices, each having an output end, are also operatively associated with the tube to sense the temperature of the liquid therein. An adapter has a first end selectively connected to the output end of the first temperature sensing device. The adapter also has a second end adapted to connect to a controller which is compatible with the first temperature sensing device and not the second temperature sensing device. With the first temperature sensing device connected to the adapter, it is operative to sense the temperature of the liquid in the tube.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 26, 2000
    Date of Patent: November 4, 2003
    Assignee: Nordson Corporation
    Inventors: Jonathia Ang, Randall Richardson, Paul Schmidt
  • Patent number: 6625997
    Abstract: An automotive air conditioning system is provided comprising a duct for introducing a flow of air into a vehicle cabin, a closed-loop refrigeration circuit including a condenser and an evaporator, a temperature sensor arrange in the duct for measuring the temperature of the evaporator, and a control unit for selectively commanding operation of the system in accordance with the measured temperature of the evaporator. In a preferred embodiment, the temperature sensor comprises an infrared (IR) temperature sensor that is remotely positioned downstream of the evaporator such that the sensor can measure the temperature of a downstream surface of the evaporator. The use of an infrared temperature sensor allows the temperature of substantially the entire downstream surface of the evaporator to be measured instead of a small finite area of the evaporator.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 26, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 30, 2003
    Assignee: Delphi Technologies, Inc.
    Inventor: Frederick K. Schultz
  • Publication number: 20030165181
    Abstract: A multipoint temperature sensor for measuring fluid temperature in a duct includes multiple thermistors of equal resistance, spaced apart in a circuit. Each thermistor has a positive lead and a negative lead for connecting electrically with the circuit. Wires connect the thermistors such that half of the thermistors are placed in parallel with the other half of the thermistors. The total number of thermistors in the circuit is a perfect square. Shrinkwrap fits over the thermistors and the leads. Tabs disposed on bridging clips bend around the shrinkwrap and the wires on either side of each thermistor such that the tabs do not overlap the leads. All the wires between adjacent thermistors are contained in a single, plenum rated sheathing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 1, 2003
    Publication date: September 4, 2003
    Applicant: Mamac Systems, Inc.
    Inventor: S. Asim Gul
  • Patent number: 6558036
    Abstract: An apparatus for sensing the temperature of a fluid being drawn from a well includes a pipe having a wall, a sensor mounted on the outer surface of the pipe wall, an insulator, and a housing attached to the pipe that encloses the sensor and the insulator. The fluid to be sensed is drawn from the well through the pipe. The thermal conductivity of the pipe wall is greater than that of the insulator.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 29, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 6, 2003
    Assignee: Weatherford/Lamb, Inc.
    Inventors: Daniel L. Gysling, Richard T. Jones, Allen R. Davis
  • Patent number: 6550962
    Abstract: A thermal sensor incorporating an improved retention clip is disclosed herein. The improved retention clip is both easily fabricated from either sheet stock or wire stock and is designed to be easily and securely assembled to the sensor housing and provides a convenient easy to use retention system for attaching the sensor to a tubular or generally cylindrical conduit member. The retention clip includes a gently angled lead-in portion which aids in guiding the clip into the conduit with little force coupled with a more sharply angled retention portion that substantially increases the force required to dislodge the sensor once assembled. Additionally, the clips are designed to minimize contact surface engagement with the conduit so as to minimize crevice corrosion. Portions of the clips may be covered with a suitable material to further limit the possibility of localized corrosion as well as to insulate the clip from the conduit member while also resisting relative movement therebetween.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 28, 2000
    Date of Patent: April 22, 2003
    Assignee: Therm-O-Disc, Incorporated
    Inventors: Tung-Sheng Yang, James Krillenberger, Larry Russell, Bradley Funk, Jeffrey Mueck, Donald Cunitz
  • 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
  • Patent number: 6485174
    Abstract: A meter equipped with thermocouples which measure the combustion gas temperature used to calculate the heat flux at selected locations of a boiler furnace wall comprised of a series of tubes conveying pressurized water and separated by membranes. The meter extends through an opening in the membrane and is mounted on the outside of the furnace wall.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 27, 2000
    Date of Patent: November 26, 2002
    Assignee: The Babcock & Wilcox Company
    Inventors: Melvin John Albrecht, Scott Edward Hawk
  • 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
  • Publication number: 20020104568
    Abstract: The closing device (16) moves between a position that opens a valve and a position that closes a valve (14), which is specifically a drainage valve used on a chemical reactor (1), a storage vat, a column or other container, and it comprises an interior housing (30) designed to hold a measurement or detection probe (27). It has an opening (38) that is accessible when it is in the operating position inside the valve and which provides access to its interior housing, allowing the probe to be inserted or removed without the need for prior disassembly of either the valve or the closing device. This invention is of interest to the chemical industry, particularly manufacturers and users of temperature measurement devices.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 1, 2002
    Publication date: August 8, 2002
    Inventor: Georges Cronimus
  • Publication number: 20020083520
    Abstract: A faucet thermal monitoring system for verifying the temperature of water being delivered through a faucet. The faucet thermal monitoring system includes a housing which is couplable to a spout of a faucet and thermally conductive such that heat is conducted between water flowing through the spout and the housing and a liquid crystal temperature panel coupled to the housing providing a visual indication of the temperature of the water flowing through the tap.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 29, 2000
    Publication date: July 4, 2002
    Inventor: Richard C. Osborne-Kirby
  • Publication number: 20020064206
    Abstract: An apparatus for sensing the temperature of a fluid being drawn from a well includes a pipe having a wall, a sensor mounted on the outer surface of the pipe wall, an insulator, and a housing attached to the pipe that encloses the sensor and the insulator. The fluid to be sensed is drawn from the well through the pipe. The thermal conductivity of the pipe wall is greater than that of the insulator.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 29, 2000
    Publication date: May 30, 2002
    Inventors: Daniel L. Gysling, Richard T. Jones, Allen R. Davis
  • Patent number: 6386272
    Abstract: A system for calculating the degree of fouling in a heat exchanger having at least one longitudinal tube inside of a shell, the shell having a first heat exchange medium flowing inside the tube and a second heat exchange medium flowing across the outside surface of the tube. The apparatus includes a first temperature sensor, a device for determining the temperature of the tube at a first axial position of the tube, and a fouling detector. The first temperature sensor senses the temperature of the tube at a first axial position of the tube. The fouling detector calculates the degree of fouling in the tube based on the initial temperature difference between the temperature of the tube and the temperature of the first heat exchange medium in the tube at the first axial position, and a later temperature difference between the temperature of a surface of the tube and the temperature of the first heat exchange medium in the tube at the first axial position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 28, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 14, 2002
    Assignee: York International Corporation
    Inventors: Keith E. Starner, John C. Hansen
  • Publication number: 20020041621
    Abstract: A temperature sensing device measures the temperature of a fluid at selected locations along an IV fluid line. The device is secured to a selected portion of the IV line and includes a temperature sensor for measuring fluid flowing within that line. The device is coupled to a temperature display device to display the measured temperature. The temperature sensing device may include: a housing with a lower cover to engage the line and a temperature sensor; a holder movable along the line and including a temperature sensor; a housing with a lower member including a tip to pierce and measure temperature of fluid within the line; a resilient member with a spiral configuration and a tip to pierce and measure temperature of fluid within the line; a ‘T’-type fitting including a temperature sensor; or a ‘Y’-type fitting including a temperature sensor in the form of a needle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 11, 2001
    Publication date: April 11, 2002
    Inventors: Durward I. Faries, Bruce R. Heymann, Calvin Blankenship, David Hendrix
  • 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: 6334707
    Abstract: A temperature sensing device for test cylinder is provided. The device includes a heat-transfer member that is covered with a top cover and is then set along with the top cover in a holding case to form a temperature sensing unit of the device. The heat-transfer member is provided at an upper side at a position best for correctly sensing temperature with an upper recess for receiving a sensing element therein, and at a lower side with channels for receiving conductors of a cable externally connected to and extended into the holding case. The upper recess of the heat-transfer member is filled with resin to enclose the sensing element therein and adhesively connect to a bottom surface of the top cover. The temperature-sensing unit has a concave top corresponding to a test cylinder to enable close and fit contact of the test cylinder with the top cover. The entire temperature sensing unit and the test cylinder are hold together by positioning them into a fixing unit of the device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 19, 2000
    Date of Patent: January 1, 2002
    Assignee: Second Source Supply Incorporated
    Inventor: Bryan Ku
  • Publication number: 20010053172
    Abstract: For measuring temperature of a fluid flowing in a tube, a temperature measuring device is provided with an electric temperature sensor which is securely attached to a tube section so as not to shift in an axial or radial direction. The temperature sensor is applied mechanically fixed on strip conductors on the outer side of the tube section by a thermally and electrically good-conducting paste. The sensor is protected against the outside by a hollow housing, preferably sheath-shaped, surrounding the tube section with a spacing. A connection cabel, electrically and mechanically firmly connected with the sensor, is guided out of the sheath-shaped housing through an opening.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 18, 2001
    Publication date: December 20, 2001
    Applicant: Heraeus Electro-Nite International N.V.
    Inventors: Ullrich Sakowsky, Matthias Muziol
  • 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: 6158886
    Abstract: A temperature monitoring assembly adapted to be positioned adjacent a structure in order to make temperature measurements at the surface of the structure is provided. The assembly includes a thermocouple means, a pad adapted for weldable attachment to the surface of the structure and having a slot therein for securing an end of the thermocouple means adjacent the surface of the structure at a desired location, and a heat shield forming a partially enclosed volume and having an opening shaped to conform to the surface of the structure so as to protect the thermocouple means from radiated heat when the shield is placed upon and welded to the structure over the thermocouple means. A portion of the thermocouple means extends though a slot in the heat shield to communicate measured temperature data.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 14, 1998
    Date of Patent: December 12, 2000
    Assignee: Gay Engineering & Sales Company, Inc.
    Inventors: Dale E. Dutcher, Larry W. Crump
  • Patent number: 6142665
    Abstract: In a temperature-measuring device, in particular for measuring the flame temperature in a gas turbine combustion chamber, a number of optical measuring sensors (7) are arranged directly upstream of a flame front (8) in a premixing zone (3) of a burner (1). Each optical measuring sensor (7) is aligned essentially parallel to and/or coaxial with a fuel flow (5) directed into the gas turbine combustion chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 29, 1997
    Date of Patent: November 7, 2000
    Assignee: ABB Alstom Power Ltd
    Inventors: Ken-Yves Haffner, Matthias Hobel
  • Patent number: 5993061
    Abstract: A device for measuring the temperature of a hot wall comprising a measuring element (2) housed in a bearing piece (6) and held in contact with the hot wall (1) using clamping means (12) fitted on a support bridge (11). The invention finds its application especially in metallurgical, petroleum-based, chemical and nuclear plants, cement works, glass works and thermal steam-production power plants.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 18, 1996
    Date of Patent: November 30, 1999
    Assignee: Elf Antar France
    Inventor: Pierre Drouet
  • Patent number: 5848094
    Abstract: Disclosed in a heat transmission monitoring and/or measuring apparatus, namely a flow measurement apparatus, for flowing mediums. It comprises a housing (1), a heating element (2) and a temperature measurement element (3). According to the invention, relatively high sensititivity and relatively high reaction speed is obtained by designing the heating element (2) and temperature measurement element (3) as pins.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 14, 1997
    Date of Patent: December 8, 1998
    Assignee: i f m electronic GmbH
    Inventors: Peter Buhl, Clemens Geiger, Walter Reichart
  • Patent number: 5829880
    Abstract: In a media conducting device which effects a temperature measurement of the medium is used a media conducting pipe 11 with a lateral exit on which is arranged a group of sensors. This component group includes a sensor housing with electric temperature sensor 40 with two contact pins 27, 28 projecting from the sensor housing. In order to develop an inexpensive, space-saving device it is proposed to provide the pipe 11 with a one-piece connecting piece 12. This results in a T-pipe combination 10. The moulded-on connecting piece 12 thus forms the essential part of the sensor housing, whilst the remainder of the sensor housing consists of a stopper 30. This stopper 30 is a constituent part of a plug unit 20 which serves merely as support for the contact pins 21, 22 and the temperature sensor 40 connected thereto.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 20, 1996
    Date of Patent: November 3, 1998
    Assignee: Delphi Automotive Systems Deutschland GmbH
    Inventor: Udo Diedrich
  • Patent number: 5829877
    Abstract: A measuring technique and method are provided to simultaneously determine the molecular density of several molecular species and the temperature within a closed process room in a melting or combustion process. In such processes in the industry, e.g. in metallurgic process industry, it is important to determine the temperature and the contents within the gas or flame without physically connect to or disturb the process. This has shown to raise large problems especially at high temperatures. The radio signal over a frequency band is measured on the outside of the process room through a window in the mantel covering as a function of frequency and registered on a computer as a radio spectrum. The system is calibrated by using a known signal transmitted through the process room. The spectral lines are identified by their frequency from a database. The temperature is determined from several lines of the same molecular specie and the molecular densities are determined from the intensities of the lines.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 2, 1995
    Date of Patent: November 3, 1998
    Inventor: Lars B. B.ang..ang.th
  • 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: 5730942
    Abstract: A system for measuring the content of foreign substances in a gas stream, for example oil in a stream of compressed air. The system includes at least one probe for collecting a given amount of gas. In the probe there is at least one sensor over which the sampled gas is passed. For optimum evaluation and for signaling certain states of operation, the sensor includes a temperature sensor for determining the temperature of the gas sample flowing past it, and a detector whose electrical resistivity or conductivity depends on the nature and density of the foreign substances in the gas. The output signal of the detector corresponds to the concentration of foreign substance in the gas stream, and is processed in an electronic evaluation unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 18, 1995
    Date of Patent: March 24, 1998
    Assignee: Filterwerk Mann & Hummel GmbH
    Inventors: Walter Megerle, Klaus Moessinger, Gerhard Tritt
  • Patent number: 5707151
    Abstract: A temperature sensing assembly for a heat exchanger flow tube comprises a housing having a thin heat transmitting wall section in heat conducting engagement with a flow tube, and a relatively thick, heat insulating structural support wall section; a thermally responsive signal producing assembly comprising an electrical signal producing element in heat transfer relationship with the heat transmitting wall section; a heat transfer element between the housing and heat exchanger flow tube tending to maintain the flow tube and heat insulating wall section temperatures the same; and an insulating jacket surrounding part of the heat transfer element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 11, 1994
    Date of Patent: January 13, 1998
    Assignee: Ranco Incorporated of Delaware
    Inventors: Thomas W. Parker, Charles D. Grant
  • Patent number: 5535779
    Abstract: A faucet or shower head includes a transparent zone on the casing thereof through which the color and quality of the water may be visually checked. A temperature display chip is mounted within the transparent zone and is covered with a transparent protective covering. The temperature display chip detects and displays the temperature of the water passing through the faucet or shower head. If the water temperature exceeds a predetermined value, a temperature controlled integrated circuit (IC) is activated to automatically give an audio alarm. This alarm helps prevent users from being scalded with excessively hot water.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 30, 1994
    Date of Patent: July 16, 1996
    Inventor: Lung-Shen Huang
  • Patent number: 5454641
    Abstract: A temperature sensing assembly for a heat exchanger flow tube comprises a housing having a thin heat transmitting wall section in heat conducting engagement with a flow tube, and a relatively thick, heat insulating structural support wall section; a thermally responsive signal producing assembly comprising an electrical signal producing element in heat transfer relationship with the heat transmitting wall section; an anchoring arrangement for positioning the signal producing element in heat exchange relationship with the heat transmitting wall section; a heat transfer element between the housing and heat exchanger flow tube tending to maintain the flow tube and heat insulating wall section temperatures the same; and an insulating jacket surrounding part of the heat transfer element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 13, 1994
    Date of Patent: October 3, 1995
    Assignee: Ranco Incorporated of Delaware
    Inventors: Thomas W. Parker, Charles D. Grant
  • Patent number: 5415203
    Abstract: A pipe, which includes a plurality of transparent sections and a plurality of opaque sections alternatively connected in series, the opaque sections being made in multiple colors, the transparent sections having temperature display chips which change color when the inside temperature of the pipe is changed over a fixed range.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 28, 1994
    Date of Patent: May 16, 1995
    Inventor: L. S. Huang
  • Patent number: 5398559
    Abstract: An apparatus for use in determining the presence and/or concentration of one or more selected materials in a given stream or aggregation in a conduit or vessel, the apparatus comprising (a) a support member constructed from a thermally conductive material and having a first, internal end for inserting into the stream or aggregation when the apparatus is placed in service and a second end positioned externally of the conduit or vessel in use, wherein the support member defines a groove therein of which at least a portion extends into the stream or aggregation in use, (b) a conduit positioned and supported substantially wholly within at least that portion of the groove in the support member which extends into the stream or aggregation in use, and (c) a temperature monitoring device positioned within the support member, whereby the temperature of the conduit/stream or aggregation interface may be measured by thermal conduction from the supporting groove portion of the support member to the temperature monitoring
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 8, 1992
    Date of Patent: March 21, 1995
    Assignee: The Dow Chemical Company
    Inventors: Theodore N. Westlake, III, Duane K. Wolcott
  • Patent number: 5320137
    Abstract: A faucet which having a spout, a handle, a middle cover, a temperature indicator and a top cover. A thermometer is installed in the hole of the strut of the middle cover for detecting the temperature of tap water which would be shown in the indicating window immediately.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 20, 1993
    Date of Patent: June 14, 1994
    Inventor: Chien-Ta Huang
  • 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: 5308162
    Abstract: A temperature abnormality detecting structure for a fluid pipe detects a temperature abnormality location by laying an optical fiber serving as a temperature detecting portion of a Ramam scattering optical fiber distribution type temperature sensor along a fluid pipe. The fluid pipe is divided into a plurality of sections in the longitudinal direction, independent optical fibers are laid along the fluid pipe in the respective sections. A portion of the optical fiber laid along one of the adjacent sections is superposed to be laid on a portion of the optical fiber laid along the other of the adjacent sections in the vicinity of each of the respective boundaries of the sections.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 10, 1993
    Date of Patent: May 3, 1994
    Assignee: Fujikura Ltd.
    Inventors: Kazuo Amano, Shotaro Yoshida
  • 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: 5265959
    Abstract: A temperature sensing apparatus for use in association with faucets, which dispense liquid mediums, such as water. A thermal transfer element, which may comprise a band-like member, includes an inner surface, an exterior surface and a base color visually observable on at least a portion of the exterior surface. Base color changing material is integrally distributed within the thermal transfer element, and, serves to change at least a portion of the base color to one or more alternative colors. Each alternative color is visually observable upon transfer of a predetermined degree of heat generated from the liquid medium to and through the thermal transfer element. Sensitivity enhancement members, which are integrally formed in the thermal transfer element, facilitate the transfer of the degree of heat so generated from the liquid medium, and, in turn, expedite the changing of the base color of the thermal transfer element to the one or more alternative colors.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 16, 1992
    Date of Patent: November 30, 1993
    Inventor: Jeffrey N. Meltzer
  • Patent number: 5249864
    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 23, 1992
    Date of Patent: October 5, 1993
    Assignee: Gas Research Institute
    Inventors: John E. Fagan, Ronnie B. Beason
  • Patent number: 5229065
    Abstract: Coolant fluid is sampled from a substantially horizontal part of the hot leg (16) of the primary circuit at at least three points (19, 20, 21) distributed at the periphery of a straight section of the hot leg (16), in such a way that at least one of the sampling points, or lower sampling point, is situated beneath the axis (17) of the hot leg (16). The temperature of the coolant water sampled at each of the sampling points (19, 20, 21) is measured at its outlet from the hot leg (16) and the coolant fluid is reintroduced into the hot leg (16) at a point situated in a position substantially diametrically opposite, with respect to one of the lower sampling points (20, 21), on the straight section of the hot leg (16). The sampling devices (19, 20, 21) connected by pipes (24, 25, 26) to a reintroduction element (22) are arranged at the periphery of the hot leg (16).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 30, 1991
    Date of Patent: July 20, 1993
    Assignee: Framatome
    Inventors: Claude Bourgeon, Michel Boulet, Emmanueul Tardy, Daniel Demonte
  • Patent number: 5199790
    Abstract: A temperature indicator for use in combination with a plumbing fitting through which water passes has a core assembly including a display, a circuit module fixed to and driving the display, a temperature sensor connected to the circuit module, a pair of long battery contacts connected to the module, a finger extending from the module and carrying the long contacts, and a pair of short battery contacts connected to the module in parallel with the long contacts. An inner housing part interfitting with the fitting and traversed by the water is formed with a recess in which the sensor is engageable. A battery is connected to one of the pairs of contacts and the other pair is unused. An outer housing part mounted on the inner housing part carries the core assembly. The finger is constructed to break readily off the assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 4, 1992
    Date of Patent: April 6, 1993
    Assignee: Friedrich Grohe Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventors: Manfred Pawelzik, Heinz Brandebusemeyer
  • Patent number: 5172979
    Abstract: A skin thermocouple assembly is formed by a mounting block profiled to be mounted on the device to be monitored and to receive an end of the thermocouple therein. A heat shield is received over the block to prevent it from becoming a fin for heat exchange causing an error in the reading of the thermocouple.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 29, 1991
    Date of Patent: December 22, 1992
    Assignee: Texaco Inc.
    Inventors: Rich W. Barkley, Ken C. Leung, Jordan Loftus
  • Patent number: 5172860
    Abstract: A shower head having a temperature-measuring function and a figurative appearance, including a water tunnel and a water-discharging switch located at a bent portion of the water tunnel for controlling the water flow whereby the shower head can provide babies with joys in bathing, a water temperature-measuring device being disposed in a longitudinal slant groove formed on the front face of the shower head, a safety glass being disposed on the slant groove for protecting the water temperature-measuring device so that the water temperature-measuring device can measure both temperatures of water in the water tunnel and outside the shower head to ensure the bathing safety and avoid any scalding accident.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 19, 1991
    Date of Patent: December 22, 1992
    Inventor: Fan C. Yuch
  • Patent number: 5160197
    Abstract: A hand shower having an upstream end is connected to a downstream end of a hose to receive water therefrom by a fitting having a snap coupling and a display. The snap coupling has a male part fixed on one of the ends, a female part fixed on the other of the ends and fittable over the male part, and a latch in the female part for releasably retaining the male part therein. The display is mounted on one of the parts and gives a readout of a parameter of the water flowing through the coupling.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 16, 1991
    Date of Patent: November 3, 1992
    Assignee: Friedrich Grohe Armaturenfabrik GmbH & Co.
    Inventor: Odo Klose
  • Patent number: 5154513
    Abstract: In order to improve a method for determining the quickly changing, average temperature of a flow of compressible medium such that it is possible to ascertain sudden changes in temperature accurately and with the least possible delay in time, it is suggested that the medium be caused to flow through a throttle point, that the mass flow of medium flowing through the throttle point be determined, that the pressure inside and upstream outside the throttle point be ascertained and that the average temperature be determined on the basis of the mass flow and the pressure inside and outside the throttle point.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 24, 1992
    Date of Patent: October 13, 1992
    Assignee: Deutsche Forschungsanstalt fuer Luft- und Raumfahrt e.V.
    Inventor: Stefan Beer
  • Patent number: 5146796
    Abstract: The probe comprises a probe arm provided with a series of orifices for simultaneously taking gas samples and measuring the heat at different locations of the charging surface and penetrating through an opening in the furnace. This opening is surrounded by a support hoop integrally connected to the wall of the furnace and provided with two diametrically opposite outer journals on which are articulated two parallel arms supporting between them the probe arm. This arm can move about the center of the said hoop under the action of at least one actuator mounted between the said hoop and the outer end of the probe arm, the arm comprising a circular sliding surface moving, sealingly, over the inner surface of the said hoop.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 1, 1991
    Date of Patent: September 15, 1992
    Assignee: Paul Wurth S.A.
    Inventors: Pierre Mailliet, Emile Lonardi, Georges Wies
  • Patent number: 5076709
    Abstract: A shower flange thermometer includes a circular casing having a planar front face, the center of the front face forming a circular pipe-receiving aperture. Inside the casing is a thermometer having a temperature-sensitive foot adjacent to the aperture for transferring heat from and to the shower pipe. A transparent window in the face displays temperatures of the shower water as indirectly indicated by the temperature of the pipe.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 3, 1990
    Date of Patent: December 31, 1991
    Inventor: William M. Tognotti
  • Patent number: 5074672
    Abstract: An arrangement for monitoring temperature of water discharging from a plurality of water-cooled electric coils of an electric generator includes a manifold for collecting the discharging water, a plurality of hollow tubes connected in flow communication between the manifold and the respective electric coils, and a plurality of temperature sensing assemblies interposed in the respective tubes between and in series relation and flow communication with first and second portions of the hollow tubes such that the temperature sensing assemblies are thermally isolated from the manifold by the first portions of the respective tubes and electrically isolated from the respective electric coils by the second portions of the respective tubes. Each temperature sensing assembly includes an annular sleeve clamped about ends of the portions of the flow tube for receiving and connecting in flow communication the flow tube portion ends.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 26, 1990
    Date of Patent: December 24, 1991
    Assignee: Westinghouse Electric Corp.
    Inventors: Franklin T. Emery, Barry J. Mathewson
  • Patent number: 5040380
    Abstract: A new method and apparatus are provided for sensing refrigerant temperatures in refrigerator systems, and for preventing underloading of the coil, or of any of the coils in a plurality of refrigerator evaporator circuit coils connected in parallel. The usual thermostatically controlled refrigerant flow control valve is controlled by a thermostatic sensor to ensure a predetermined minimum amount of superheat, usually about 5.5.degree. C. (10.degree. F.). To avoid underloading the refrigerant is rendered thoroughly turbulent and mixed, and in the multi-coil evaporator the flows from all of the coils are similarly thoroughly turbulated and mixed, by a turbulating and/or mixing device that intercepts the entire refrigerant flow just before the sensing of the superheat, thus ensuring that the temperature is accurately measured; in the multi-circuit coil system the device averages the temperatures of all the flows. Different turbulator/mixer devices are described and two or more such devices may be used in series.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 8, 1989
    Date of Patent: August 20, 1991
    Assignee: Super S.E.E.R. Systems Inc.
    Inventor: Charles Gregory
  • Patent number: 5006867
    Abstract: A recording head for an ink jet recording apparatus having a common chamber for supplying ink to a plurality of ink discharge portions each having an electric-heat converting member. A plurality of temperature detecting elements in the head measure the temperature at different locations in the chamber and an adjuster equalizes the temperature distribution of the chamber based on temperature information from the temperature detecting devices.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 7, 1990
    Date of Patent: April 9, 1991
    Assignee: Canon Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Yutaka Koizumi, Minoru Nozawa, Toshihiro Mori, Atsushi Saito
  • Patent number: 4994792
    Abstract: A fluid temperature monitoring system is characterized by an adjustable variable voltage divider for selecting a desired temperature range, a temperature detector for detecting whether the fluid temperature is above, below, or at the desired range, and a temperature indicator for emitting three different temperature indicating signals in accordance with temperatures above, below, or at the desired temperature range.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 6, 1989
    Date of Patent: February 19, 1991
    Inventor: Eldon W. Ziegler, Jr.