By Thermoelectric Potential Generator (e.g., Thermocouple) Patents (Class 374/179)
  • Patent number: 8087822
    Abstract: A liquid container capable of self-generating power and showing temperature, comprising: a) a containing body consisting of a housing and an inner wall, a gap being formed between the housing and the inner wall; b) a circuit board positioned within the gap; c) a temperature sensor positioned in the gap for measuring the temperature of the contained liquid, the temperature sensor being electrically connected to the circuit board; d) a temperature indicator disposed in the gap and electrically connected to the circuit board, a displaying surface thereof being positioned on the surface of the housing; and e) a temperature difference power-generating element positioned within the gap and electrically coupled to the circuit board, a thermoelectric effect being created by the hot water filled into the space defined by the inner wall such that a thermal energy can be converted into the electric energy that is stored by an energy-accumulating element for providing the temperature indicator and the related elements wi
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 3, 2009
    Date of Patent: January 3, 2012
    Inventor: Wei-Lun Peng
  • Publication number: 20110317739
    Abstract: The present disclosure includes sensing device embodiments. One sensing device includes a heater layer, a resistance detector layer, constructed and arranged to indicate a temperature value based upon a correlation to a detected resistance value, an electrode layer, and a sensing layer.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 23, 2010
    Publication date: December 29, 2011
    Applicant: HONEYWELL INTERNATIONAL, INC.
    Inventors: Barrett E. Cole, Robert Higashi, Peter Tobias
  • Publication number: 20110317740
    Abstract: A high temperature measurement probe comprises an elongate probe body having a measuring head which in use is located in a hot fluid flow. The probe further comprises a thermocouple extending along the interior of the probe body to terminate at a temperature-sensing thermocouple junction inside the measuring head. The probe body has internal passages for circulation of a coolant fluid therein. The measuring head contains a channel, one end of the channel forming an inlet for receiving hot fluid from the hot fluid flow and another end of the channel forming an outlet for discharging the hot fluid received at the inlet. Between the inlet and the outlet a section of the channel extends along the length direction of the probe body. The thermocouple runs along the section of the channel with the thermocouple junction proximate the upstream end of the section.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 16, 2011
    Publication date: December 29, 2011
    Applicant: ROLLS-ROYCE PLC
    Inventors: Peter IRELAND, Andrew WILSON, Steven THORPE, Damian MARTIN
  • Publication number: 20110299567
    Abstract: A process variable transmitter for measuring a temperature of an industrial process, includes a first electrical connector configured to couple to a first wire of a thermocouple, the first electrical connector includes a first electrode and a second electrode. The first and second electrodes are configured to electrically couple to the first wire of the thermocouple. A second electrical connector is configured to couple to a second wire of the thermocouple, the second electrical connector includes a third electrode and a fourth electrode. The third and fourth electrodes are configured to electrically couple to the second wire of the thermocouple. The second wire is of a different material than the first wire. Measurement circuitry is coupled to the first and second electrical connectors configured to provide an output related to a temperature of the thermocouple.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 7, 2010
    Publication date: December 8, 2011
    Inventors: Jason H. Rud, Clarence Holmstadt
  • Publication number: 20110299562
    Abstract: A diverse and redundant resistance temperature detector (“D&R RTD”) is provided. The D&R RTD is utilized in obtaining temperature readings in environments, such as fluids and gasses, by measuring electrical characteristics of the D&R RTD that are influenced by the temperature. Furthermore, the D&R RTD's are arranged such that a plurality of measurements can be obtained, which provides sufficient diversity and redundancy of the measurements for enhanced diagnostics to be performed, such as optimization for fast dynamic response, calibration stability, in-situ response time testability, and in-situ calibration testability.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 8, 2011
    Publication date: December 8, 2011
    Applicant: Analysis and Measurement Services Corporation
    Inventor: Hashem M. HASHEMIAN
  • Publication number: 20110292966
    Abstract: A flexible circuit configured to electrically couple circuit boards is provided. The flexible circuit includes opposite circuit board mating ends and a flexible body extending therebetween. Conductive pathways extend along the body of the flexible circuit to electrically couple the circuit boards. The flexible circuit also includes a temperature sensing circuit including leads having a distal end coupled to a temperature sensor and a temperature contact located proximate to one of circuit board mating ends. The temperature sensor is located at an intermediate position along the body between the circuit board mating ends. The temperature contact is configured to deliver temperature signals from the temperature sensor representative of a local flexible circuit temperature.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 28, 2010
    Publication date: December 1, 2011
    Applicant: TYCO ELECTRONICS CORPORATION
    Inventors: JUSTIN DENNIS PICKEL, STEVEN J. MILLARD
  • Publication number: 20110292968
    Abstract: A thermoelement (1) for measuring the temperature in gaseous or fluid media by means of one or more thermocouples (4) comprising wires of different metals welded together which give off a resulting electrical voltage when heated and are configured as a measuring insert (2) arranged in an insulating rod (3) disposed in a heat-resistant protective tube (11) that can be connected to a connection head (6), the protective tube being wholly or partially surrounded by a holding tube (21). To prevent a high input of heat which has an unfavourable effect on a temperature measurement, the holding tube (21) is supported against the protective tube (11) at a radial distance from the protective tube (11), and a heat-resistant trace (31) and optionally an insulating material (33) are inserted between the protective tube (11) and the holding tube (21), and the holding tube (21) is attached to the connection head (6) and/or the protective tube (11) in one or both end areas and is provided with thermal insulation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 11, 2011
    Publication date: December 1, 2011
    Inventors: Christian Hoßach, Peter Krieg, Detlef Maiwald, Hans-Peter Mnikoleiski, Wolfgang Uhrig
  • Patent number: 8052324
    Abstract: A thin film ceramic thermocouple (10) having two ceramic thermocouple (12, 14) that are in contact with each other in at least on point to form a junction, and wherein each element was prepared in a different oxygen/nitrogen/argon plasma. Since each element is prepared under different plasma conditions, they have different electrical conductivity and different charge carrier concentration. The thin film thermocouple (10) can be transparent. A versatile ceramic sensor system having an RTD heat flux sensor can be combined with a thermocouple and a strain sensor to yield a multifunctional ceramic sensor array. The transparent ceramic temperature sensor that could ultimately be used for calibration of optical sensors.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 4, 2010
    Date of Patent: November 8, 2011
    Assignees: Board of Governors for Higher Education, State of Rhode Island and Providence Plantations, National Aeronautics and Space Administration
    Inventors: Otto Gregory, Gustave Fralick, John Wrbanek, Tao You
  • Publication number: 20110268153
    Abstract: An electricity generating based on the difference in temperature electronic pan with a semiconductor refrigeration slice is provided. The electronic pan comprises a pan body, a handle, an electricity generating based on the difference in temperature unit and a temperature measuring unit. The electricity generating based on the difference in temperature unit is composed of a semiconductor refrigeration slice, a voltage increased and regulated electronic module and an energy storage unit. The temperature measuring unit is composed of a temperature sensor, a microprocessor, a circuit board and a liquid crystal display for displaying temperature. The temperature sensor is provided under the pan body directly. The circuit board is provided inside the chamber of the handle. The semiconductor refrigeration slice connected to the pan body is provided inside the chamber at the connection of the handle and the pan body.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 3, 2008
    Publication date: November 3, 2011
    Applicant: Mingle Metal (Shen Zhen) Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Weiming He, Ming Li
  • Publication number: 20110268152
    Abstract: Provided in some embodiment is a thermocouple system that includes a printed circuit board having a terminal component connection to couple to a connector of a terminal component, a temperature sensing component connection to couple to a connector of a temperature sensing component, a signal plane thermally coupled to the terminal component connection, and a thermal plane thermally coupled to the temperature sensing component connection and electrically isolated from the terminal component connection and the signal plane. The surface area of the thermal plane overlaps a substantial portion of a surface area of the signal plane.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 3, 2010
    Publication date: November 3, 2011
    Inventors: Alvin G. Becker, Daniel H. Ousley
  • Patent number: 8047713
    Abstract: Provided is a plasmon resonance detector that can detect temperature change in optical devices, in which the metal structure having plasmon resonance absorption is used for the optical devices. A diode formed of a conductive substrate, an n-type semiconductor layer, an i-type semiconductor layer, a p-type semiconductor layer, an n electrode (negative electrode), a p electrode (positive electrode), an insulating film, or the like is used as a semiconductor device whose resistance value changes in accordance with temperature change. A nanochain formed by connecting a plurality of metal nanoparticles is disposed on this diode. When the nanochain is irradiated with light, the nanochain generates heat. The heat generated in the nanochain is conducted to the diode. The resistance value of the diode changes in accordance with temperature change, and thus this change is read, a temperature or an amount of heat generation of the nanochain is measured, and existence and strength of the plasmon resonance are detected.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 22, 2008
    Date of Patent: November 1, 2011
    Assignee: Rohm Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Kosei Ueno, Hiroaki Misawa, Dai Ohnishi, Takui Sakaguchi, Yoichi Mugino
  • Patent number: 8039729
    Abstract: A thermocouple mounting assembly is provided. A plurality of retainers includes portions that are interengageable, some portions carried by a body and some portions carried by a thermocouple assembly to effect releasable mounting of a thermocouple assembly to a body. The retainers are constructed and shaped to provide for their formation by a molding process such as die-casting or investment casting, eliminating or substantially eliminating the need for machining of the retainer components. Preferably, there is an audible sound, e.g., click, present to signify when the retainers are interengaged.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 30, 2005
    Date of Patent: October 18, 2011
    Assignee: Robertshaw Controls Company
    Inventor: Can Trong Nguyen
  • Patent number: 8033722
    Abstract: A thin-film thermocouple (12) is disclosed for use with a gas turbine component. The thermocouple may be formed on a non-planar substrate (22) having formed thereon an electrically insulating layer (34) capable of maintaining its insulating properties at gas turbine operating temperatures. A first thermocouple leg (26) made of pure platinum is then deposited on the dielectric layer (34). A second thermocouple leg (28) made of another pure metal or a transparent ceramic oxide is also formed on the dielectric layer (34) wherein the first and second thermocouple legs make ohmic contact at a first end of each leg to form a hot junction (30) for conversion of heat into an electrical signal. The thermocouple may be deposited on a surface of a thermal barrier coating or between a thermal barrier coating and an underlying metal substrate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 3, 2008
    Date of Patent: October 11, 2011
    Assignee: Siemens Energy, Inc.
    Inventors: Anand A. Kulkarni, David J. Mitchell, Edward R. Roesch
  • Patent number: 8033719
    Abstract: The invention relates to a gas turbine, with a flow path for a hot gas, enclosed by a channel wall with at least one measuring probe, arranged in the channel wall, for determination of a parameter of the hot gas, said measuring probe comprising a temperature-resistant measuring tip in contact with the hot gas and a measuring line, arranged outside the flow path in a protective sleeve. According to the invention, such a gas turbine with a structurally uncomplicated protective sleeve for measuring lines from measuring probes, in which the measuring lines can be economically fitted and securely protected from excessively high operating temperatures, may be achieved, whereby the protective sleeve has a flow of coolant running therethrough which may be taken from a coolant supply connected to the protective sleeve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 16, 2006
    Date of Patent: October 11, 2011
    Assignee: Siemens Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventors: Matthias Beutin, Gilbert Braun, Holger Eisenlohr, Giuseppe Gaio, Frank Günther, Kai-Uwe Rogos, Bernd Vonnemann, Edmund Zastrozny
  • Publication number: 20110232577
    Abstract: Animal pads are presented including: a pad; a lamp fixture positioned to at least illuminate a portion of the pad, where the lamp fixture includes, a narrow spectrum lamp, and a power source; and an intensity adjustment module including, a switch for turning the narrow spectrum lamp on and off, and an intensity adjustment element for adjusting an intensity of the narrow spectrum lamp in response to a number of inputs, where a first input of the number of inputs is a user adjustable input. In some embodiments, animal pads are presented where the intensity adjustment module further includes: a thermocouple for measuring an ambient temperature and for providing a second input of the number of inputs to the intensity adjustment element; and a logic element in electronic communication with the intensity adjustment element, the logic element configured for regulating the intensity adjustment element in response to the second input.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 21, 2011
    Publication date: September 29, 2011
    Inventor: Michael Ryan
  • Publication number: 20110228813
    Abstract: A device for measuring the temperature of water covering a road surface includes a member for measuring water temperature and channelling means for channelling the water covering the road surface. The channelling means includes a measuring chamber for measuring the temperature of the water covering the road surface. The measuring member includes a temperature measuring head situated in the measuring chamber. The device also includes driving means for driving the device over the road surface, the means being arranged in such a way that the temperature measuring head is situated at some distance from the road surface.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 11, 2011
    Publication date: September 22, 2011
    Applicants: Societe De Technologie Michelin, Michelin Recherche Et Technique S.A.
    Inventor: Jeremy BUISSON
  • Publication number: 20110231099
    Abstract: A portable monitor used to measure landfill gas and landfill well parameters. The portable monitor includes a control unit and a measuring unit that can communicate wirelessly with one another. The control unit and/or measuring unit can include a heating arrangement to increase the temperature of one or more components in the control unit and/or measuring unit in cold environments.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 10, 2011
    Publication date: September 22, 2011
    Inventor: CHARLES ELKINS
  • Publication number: 20110224907
    Abstract: An apparatus for measuring downhole pressure includes a plurality of conductors within a mineral insulated cable, a pressure sensor attached to at least two of the conductors, and a thermocouple embedded in the mineral insulated cable. The pressure sensor generates a signal that is dependent upon pressure. The thermocouple is rated for temperatures greater than 150° C. The thermocouple generates a signal that is dependent upon temperature.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 11, 2010
    Publication date: September 15, 2011
    Applicant: PETROSPEC ENGINEERING LTD.
    Inventor: Gerald Chalifoux
  • Publication number: 20110222582
    Abstract: A gas turbine component (49) may be instrumented to provide a plurality of signals indicative of thermal measurements in a high temperature combustion environment of the gas turbine. A thermocouple arrangement may include a first thermocouple leg (50) disposed within a thickness of the component. At least two or more thermocouple legs (52, 53, 54) is each electrically connected to the first leg to form individual thermocouple junctions (56, 57, 58, 59) along the first leg for conversion of respective thermal gradients to respective electrical signals, such as electromotive force (emf) based voltages. The thermocouple arrangement may be used in combination with a thermographic system (70) to calculate heat flux over a region of the turbine component.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 28, 2011
    Publication date: September 15, 2011
    Inventors: Ramesh Subramanian, Anand A. Kulkarni, Vinay Jonnalagadda, David J. Mitchell
  • Patent number: 8004423
    Abstract: An instrumented component (18, 19) for use in various operating environments such as the hot gas path section of a combustion turbine engine (10). The component (18, 19) may have a substrate, a sensor (50, 204, 210) connected with the substrate for sensing a condition of the component (18, 19) within the casing during operation of the combustion turbine (10) and a connector (52, 202) attached to the substrate and in communication with the sensor (50, 204, 210) for routing a data signal from the sensor (50, 204, 210) to a termination location (53). The component (18, 19) may include a wireless telemetry device (54, 202) in communication with the connector (52, 202) for wirelessly transmitting the data signal outside the casing. A transceiver (56) may be located outside the casing for receiving the data signal and transmitting it to a processing module (30) for developing information with respect to a condition of the component (18, 19) or a coating (26) deposited on the component (18, 19).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 14, 2006
    Date of Patent: August 23, 2011
    Assignee: Siemens Energy, Inc.
    Inventors: David J. Mitchell, Anand A. Kulkarni, Ramesh Subramanian, Edward R. Roesch
  • Patent number: 7997795
    Abstract: Temperature sensors and methods of manufacturing thereof, having an intermediate stop disposed along a set of wires, the intermediate stop is secured to the set of wires such that an insulator can be properly positioned around proximal end portions of the set of wires during assembly of the temperature sensor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 2, 2006
    Date of Patent: August 16, 2011
    Assignee: Watlow Electric Manufacturing Company
    Inventors: William H Schwagerman, Robert K Frake
  • Patent number: 7994416
    Abstract: A set of electrical connector pins for a thermocouple includes two materially similar conductor pairs, each conductor pair having conductors composed of a different material, and carried by an electrically insulating connector housing. The different materials of the conductor pairs provide a partial compensation to the thermocouple EMF developed between the hot junction and the cold junction when engaged thereto for the different type thermocouples. The conductors of each pair are operable to engage with two thermoelement conductors that form a thermocouple of differing types. The thermocouples provide a hot junction electrical interconnection therebetween at one end and are coupled to a cold junction at another end.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 18, 2005
    Date of Patent: August 9, 2011
    Assignee: Watlow Electric Manufacturing Company
    Inventor: William C Schuh
  • Patent number: 7993057
    Abstract: Systems are provided for measuring temperature in a semiconductor processing chamber. Embodiments provide a multi-junction thermocouple comprising a first junction and a second junction positioned to measure temperature at substantially the same portion of a substrate. A controller may detect failures in the first junction, the second junction, a first wire pair extending from the first junction, or a second wire pair extending from the second junction. The controller desirably responds to a detected failure of the first junction or first wire pair by selecting the second junction and second wire pair. Conversely, the controller desirably responds to a detected failure of the second junction or second wire pair by selecting the first junction and first wire pair. Systems taught herein may permit accurate and substantially uninterrupted temperature measurement despite failure of a junction or wire pair in a thermocouple.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 20, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 9, 2011
    Assignee: ASM America, Inc.
    Inventors: Ravinder Aggarwal, Mark Kleshock, Loren Jacobs
  • Publication number: 20110188538
    Abstract: Protective enclosure and method for protecting heat sensitive, data recording devices in high temperature environments. The protective enclosure has a housing having at least one compartment for containing a heat sensitive, data recording device, e.g., a temperature recording device, and a jacket configured to contain a phase change material. The jacket may be vented and configured to at least partially surround the compartment. The housing may be sealed with an endcap. The recording device and a heat absorbing element are disposed within the same or within adjoining or adjacent sub-compartments within the enclosure. In a method, the enclosure with heat absorbing element and temperature recording device is placed within a heated environment or environment to be heated, e.g., a furnace. The recording device is connected to a thermal couple.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 25, 2009
    Publication date: August 4, 2011
    Applicant: DESPATCH INDUSTRIES LIMITED PARTNERSHIP
    Inventor: Hans L. Melgaard
  • Publication number: 20110150033
    Abstract: Methods and thermowell systems that can be uses in high dynamic pressure environments. A thermocouple system includes a thermowell configured to enter a structure through which a medium flows; an elongated probe provided partially inside the thermowell and configured to measure a temperature; at least one o-ring disposed around the elongated probe at a first end, the o-ring being configured to dampen a vibration for the elongated probe by contacting the thermowell; and an elastomer disposed around the elongated probe section at a second end, the elastomer being configured to dampen the vibration for the elongated probe by contacting the thermowell.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 21, 2009
    Publication date: June 23, 2011
    Applicant: NUOVO PIGNONE S.p.A.
    Inventors: William C. Egan, Robert Schultz
  • Publication number: 20110153242
    Abstract: A method of measuring a temperature of a wire and a current flowing through the wire with a thermocouple includes taking a first voltage reading from the thermocouple with the current at a first polarity, and taking a second voltage reading from the thermocouple with the current at a second polarity. The first voltage reading is averaged with the second voltage reading to obtain an average voltage reading, which is referenced to a correlation table to calculate the temperature of the wire. Half of a voltage difference between the first voltage reading and the second voltage reading is divided by the resistance in the wire to calculate the current flowing through the wire.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 18, 2009
    Publication date: June 23, 2011
    Applicants: GM GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS, INC, University of Waterloo
    Inventors: Xiujie Gao, Nicholas William Pinto, Robert B. Gorbet, J. Richard Culham, Alan L. Browne, Nancy L. Johnson, Huilong (William) Ma
  • Publication number: 20110150036
    Abstract: Provided are a flexible thermoelectric generator, a wireless sensor node including the same and a method of manufacturing the same. The flexible thermoelectric generator includes a plurality of P-type semiconductors and a plurality of N-type semiconductors, which are alternately arranged, an upper metal for connecting upper surfaces of the adjacent P-type semiconductor and N-type semiconductor, a lower metal for connecting lower surfaces of the adjacent P-type semiconductor and N-type semiconductor, and alternately disposed with respect to the upper metal, a P-type metal connected to at least one P-type semiconductor among the plurality of P-type semiconductors, and an N-type metal connected to at least one N-type semiconductor among the plurality of N-type semiconductors.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 18, 2010
    Publication date: June 23, 2011
    Applicant: ELECTRONICS AND TELECOMMUNICATIONS RESEARCH INSTITUTE
    Inventors: Jae Woo Lee, Yil Suk Yang, Se Wan Heo, Moon Gyu Jang, Jong Dae Kim
  • Patent number: 7950848
    Abstract: A sheath type measuring instrument can be mounted in place easily and smoothly without the need for boring holes in an outer wall and an inner wall with high positional accuracy and also for a complex process, even if a barrel is to be fixed to the outer wall while a tip end of a sheath is being inserted in a sheath insertion hole bored in an inner wall. The sheath type measuring instrument has a sheath having a tip end for being brought closely to or into contact with a measurand for measuring a physical property of the measurand, and a barrel holding a proximal portion of the sheath for movement in a direction perpendicular to an axis of the sheath.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 20, 2005
    Date of Patent: May 31, 2011
    Assignees: Ebara Corporation, Okazaki Manufacturing Company
    Inventors: Saho Kimura, Takashi Sugaya, Manabu Kazaoka, Yuuya Hashiguchi
  • Patent number: 7946762
    Abstract: A thermocouple for use in a semiconductor processing reactor is described. The thermocouple includes a sheath having a measuring tip at one end and an opening at the other end. A support member having bores formed along the length is disposed within the sheath. A pair of wires formed of dissimilar metals are disposed within the bores, and one end of the wires is fused together to form a junction. The wires extend along the length of the bores. As the wires exit the bore, they are spatially or physically separated to prevent a short circuit therebetween. The ends of the wires exiting the bore are also free to thermally expand in the longitudinal manner, thereby reducing or eliminating the potential for the wires to fail due to grain slip.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 17, 2008
    Date of Patent: May 24, 2011
    Assignee: ASM America, Inc.
    Inventor: Andy Michael Yednak, III
  • Publication number: 20110096808
    Abstract: A motion guide device includes a ball nut attached onto a shaft and having helical grooves for receiving a number of ball bearing elements, and having a compartment form receiving a temperature detecting device which detects a temperature of the ball nut for preventing the ball nut from overheating, an indicating device is coupled to the temperature detecting device for generating an indicating signal when the temperature detecting device has sensed or detected that the temperature of the ball nut or the screw shaft is higher than the predetermined temperature or value, and the user may then stop working to find out what problems have been happened and thus to prevent the motion guide device from overheating.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 27, 2009
    Publication date: April 28, 2011
    Inventors: Yih Chyun Hwang, Fu-Chun Huang
  • Publication number: 20110086247
    Abstract: A redox cell rebalance system is provided. In some embodiments, the rebalance system includes electrochemical cell and a photochemical cell. In some embodiments, the photochemical cell contains a source of ultraviolet radiation for producing HCl from H2 and Cl2 generated by the system. The HCl product may be collected or circulated back through the system for the rebalancing of electrolytes. A rebalance cell for use in a rebalance system is also provided. In some embodiments, the rebalance cell is the combination of an electrochemical cell and a photochemical cell. In some embodiments, a source of ultraviolet radiation is housed in the cathode compartment of the rebalance cell. In some embodiments, the source of ultraviolet radiation is used to effect the formation of HCl from H2 and Cl2 present in the rebalance cell. The HCl is dissolved in aqueous electrolytes contained in the rebalance cell, which can subsequently be circulated through a rebalance system for the rebalancing of redox cells.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 28, 2010
    Publication date: April 14, 2011
    Inventors: Majid Keshavarz, Chockkalingam Karuppaiah, Ge Zu, Saroj Kumar Sahu, Suresh Kumar Surapalan Nair, Vasanthan Mani, Gopalakrishnan R. Parakulam, Ali Firouzi, Veluchamy Rasu
  • Publication number: 20110083958
    Abstract: A measuring device is provided having a protective cover and a sensor arranged in the protective cover. The protective cover has a carrier tube made of metal and closed on one end. A first coating made of an aluminum non-wettable material is arranged on an outer surface of the carrier tube, and a further coating made of aluminum-wettable material is applied on the first coating.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 28, 2009
    Publication date: April 14, 2011
    Applicant: HERAEUS ELECTRO-NITE INTERNATIONAL N.V.
    Inventors: Paul Verstreken, Jozef Theodoor Aegten
  • Publication number: 20110080934
    Abstract: A moving object thermometer is provided which can precisely measure the surface temperature of a moving (travelling) measurement object, particularly, a small-diameter conductive wire. A first metallic wire 1 and a second metallic wire 2 constituting a thermocouple are disposed on the outer circumferential surface 13 of the disk 11 in the rotary section 10 so as to be inclined toward the shaft center. A thermoelectric force resulting from contact of the metallic wires with a measurement object is converted into an electric signal, which is transmitted through the light emitting diode 31 and passed to the photodiode 32 provided at the stationary section 20 in a non-contact manner. Application of a high frequency current to the stationary side coil 42 provided at the stationary section 20 causes electric power to be supplied in a non-contact manner to the rotary side coil 41 provided so as to be opposed to the stationary side coil 42.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 5, 2010
    Publication date: April 7, 2011
    Inventors: Katsunobu TAKIGAWA, Yasufumi Sakamoto
  • Publication number: 20110051777
    Abstract: A high-temperature plug (10) is provided for a heating element and/or thermocouple or a temperature sensor with at least one wire section (18) embedded in an insulating manner within a metal jacket (16) with a wire end (14) led out from the metal jacket (16) on the front side. The high-temperature plug (10) has a connection sleeve (11) made of metal, into which the at least one wire section (18) embedded in an insulating manner within the metal jacket (16) opens. At least one contact element (12) is in electrical contact within the connection sleeve (11) with the wire end (14) led out from the metal jacket (16) on the front side. At least the end section, facing the at least one wire end (14), of the at least one contact element (12) is embedded in an insulating compound (13) or a metal oxide, such that the embedding fixes the contact element (12) in the connection sleeve.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 1, 2010
    Publication date: March 3, 2011
    Inventor: Andreas SCHLIPF
  • Publication number: 20110051775
    Abstract: The present invention, in one embodiment, provides a method of measuring pressure or temperature using a sensor including a sensor element composed of a plurality of carbon nanotubes. In one example, the resistance of the plurality of carbon nanotubes is measured in response to the application of temperature or pressure. The changes in resistance are then recorded and correlated to temperature or pressure. In one embodiment, the present invention provides for independent measurement of pressure or temperature using the sensors disclosed herein.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 26, 2009
    Publication date: March 3, 2011
    Applicant: UT-BATTELLE, LLC
    Inventors: Ilia N. Ivanov, David Bruce Geohegan
  • Patent number: 7896545
    Abstract: Some embodiments include apparatus and methods having a first switch, a second switch, and a circuit coupled to the first and second switches. The first switch may be configured to switch between an on-state and an off-state based on a value of a first current flowing through a number of resistors and a diode coupled in series with the resistors. The second switch may be configured to switch between the on-state and the off-state based on a value of a second current on a circuit path. The second current is a function of a voltage at a node between two of the resistors and a resistance of the circuit path. The circuit may be configured to provide a temperature reading based on the number of times the first switch or the second switch switches between the on-state and the off-state during a time interval.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 19, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 1, 2011
    Assignee: Micron Technology, Inc.
    Inventor: Dong Pan
  • Patent number: 7891870
    Abstract: A temperature sensor element 10 has a reduced thermal conduction path from a measurement object to a sensitive end portion 22 of a thermocouple 21 and a high-dense insulating ceramic base body 20. Since the temperature sensor element 10 has excellent thermal conductivity from the measurement object to the sensitive end portion 22 of the thermocouple 21, it is also excellent in responsiveness at the time of temperature detection. Further, corrosion and material deterioration of the thermocouple 21 is unlikely to occur because the thermocouple 21 does not directly contact the measurement object (exhaust gas). As a result, the temperature sensor element 10 exhibits excellent durability. Therefore, the temperature sensor element 10 exhibits a good responsiveness at the time of temperature detection as well as excellent durability.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 29, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 22, 2011
    Assignee: NGK Spark Plug Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Nobuyuki Hotta, Kazushige Ohbayashi
  • Patent number: 7882620
    Abstract: A thermocouple shield assembly comprising a first tube having an upper portion and a lower portion with a lower end, the first tube including a first elongated cavity closed at the lower end and receiving the thermocouple, a second tube having a second elongated cavity with at least one open end and receiving the upper portion while a part of the lower portion containing the thermocouple extends out of the open end, and a gap between adjacent walls of the second elongated cavity and of the first tube such as to allow independent thermal deformations of the first and second tubes. In use, at least a portion of the part of the lower portion of the first tube is subjected to a given temperature while the second tube is subjected to a different temperature. Methods of manufacturing and of assembling such a thermocouple shield assembly are also presented.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 12, 2004
    Date of Patent: February 8, 2011
    Assignee: Groupe Refraco Inc.
    Inventors: Claude Allaire, Jean-Benoit Pineault
  • Patent number: 7874726
    Abstract: A thermocouple having a support tube configured to receive a pair of wires of dissimilar metals. The pair of wires of the thermocouple connected at a junction adjacent to one end of the support tube. The thermocouple further including a cap attached to the opposing end of the support tube, wherein the cap receives the free ends of the pair of wires. The cap allowing the pair of wires to translate freely therethrough to accommodate the difference in thermal expansion and contraction of the pair of wires relative to the thermal expansion and contraction of the support tube.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 15, 2008
    Date of Patent: January 25, 2011
    Assignee: ASM America, Inc.
    Inventors: Loren Jacobs, Mike Halpin
  • Publication number: 20110013667
    Abstract: A test slot assembly is provided for testing a storage device. The test slot assembly is configured to receive and support a storage device, or a storage device supported by a storage device transporter. The test slot assembly also includes a temperature sensing assembly. The temperature sensing assembly is arranged to measure a temperature of a storage device by way of physical contact. The test slot assembly also includes a clamping mechanism operatively associated with the housing. The clamping mechanism is operable to move the temperature sensing assembly into contact with a storage device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 15, 2010
    Publication date: January 20, 2011
    Inventors: Brian S. Merrow, Larry W. Akers
  • Publication number: 20110013666
    Abstract: A storage device transporter is provided for transporting a storage device and for mounting a storage device within a test slot. The storage device transporter includes a frame that is configured to receive and support a storage device, and a clamping mechanism associated with the frame. The clamping mechanism is operable to apply a clamping force to a storage device supported by the frame The storage device transporter also includes a temperature sensor (e.g., a thermocouple). The clamping mechanism is operable to move the temperature sensor into contact with a storage device supported by the frame for measuring a temperature of the storage device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 14, 2010
    Publication date: January 20, 2011
    Inventors: Brian S. Merrow, Larry W. Akers
  • Publication number: 20110013669
    Abstract: Embodiments disclosed herein generally relate to a temperature sensor disposed in an apparatus. In many semiconductor, liquid crystal display, solar panel or organic light emitting display fabrication processes, RF power is utilized to either ignite a plasma within the processing chamber or to provide supplemental energy to the process. Temperature control during many processes may be beneficial in order to produce a consistent product. Temperature sensors or thermocouples are sometimes utilized to measure the temperature of a substrate within a processing chamber. The RF power may have a negative impact on the temperature sensor. By coating the temperature sensor with a nanoparticle based metal coating, such as a silver coating, the negative impacts of the RF power on the temperature sensor may be reduced without contaminating the process, and an accurate temperature measurement may be obtained.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 17, 2010
    Publication date: January 20, 2011
    Applicant: APPLIED MATERIALS, INC.
    Inventors: GOVINDA RAJ, Bopanna Ichettria, Ashish Bhatnagar, Cariappa Baduvamanda
  • Publication number: 20110013665
    Abstract: A storage device transporter is provided for transporting a storage device and for mounting a storage device within a test slot. The storage device transporter includes a frame that is configured to receive and support a storage device, and a clamping mechanism associated with the frame. The clamping mechanism is operable to apply a clamping force to a storage device supported by the frame The storage device transporter also includes a temperature sensor (e.g., a thermocouple). The clamping mechanism is operable to move the temperature sensor into contact with a storage device supported by the frame for measuring a temperature of the storage device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 15, 2009
    Publication date: January 20, 2011
    Inventors: Brian S. Merrow, Larry W. Akers
  • Patent number: 7871198
    Abstract: A high-temperature thermocouple and methods for fabricating a thermocouple capable of long-term operation in high-temperature, hostile environments without significant signal degradation or shortened thermocouple lifetime due to heat induced brittleness.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 26, 2007
    Date of Patent: January 18, 2011
    Assignee: Battelle Energy Alliance, LLC
    Inventors: Joy L. Rempe, Darrell L. Knudson, Keith G. Condie, S. Curt Wilkins
  • Patent number: 7862231
    Abstract: An apparatus for testing temperature includes a plurality of thermocouples, a plurality of relays, a ground circuit, a compensation circuit, a power supply circuit, a switch circuit, and an MPU. The thermo-couples samples temperatures at different locations in a CNC machine, each thermo-couple is connected to a corresponding relay and selectively connected to the switch circuit by turning on or off the corresponding relay, the compensation circuit includes a cold junction compensator and a first relay, the ground circuit includes a ground terminal and a second relay, the power circuit includes a power supply and a third relay. The first, second, and third relays selectively turn on or off to connect the cold junction compensator, the ground terminal, or the power supply to the switch circuit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 10, 2008
    Date of Patent: January 4, 2011
    Assignee: Foxnum Technology Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Hsing-Chang Liu
  • Publication number: 20100322286
    Abstract: An object of the invention is to provide a thermocouple having a high response speed without receiving mechanical damages such as bending and curving even when it is used in a high-speed fluid.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 24, 2008
    Publication date: December 23, 2010
    Inventors: Kozo Toyama, Mitsuaki Mochizuki, Hiroshi Okada, Shinichi Fukushima, Junichi Sano
  • Publication number: 20100319436
    Abstract: A test sensor includes a body, a first conductive trace, a second conductive trace, and a third conductive trace. The body includes a first region that has a fluid-receiving area, a second region separate from the first region, and a first temperature sensing interface disposed at or adjacent to the fluid-receiving area. The fluid-receiving area receives a sample. The first trace is disposed on the body, and at least a portion of the first trace is disposed in the first region. The second and third traces are disposed on the body. The third trace extends from the first to the second regions. The third trace is connected to the first trace at the first temperature sensing interface. The third trace includes a different material than the first trace. A first thermocouple is formed at the first temperature sensing interface. The thermocouple provides temperature data to determine an analyte concentration.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 23, 2010
    Publication date: December 23, 2010
    Applicant: BAYER HEALTHCARE LLC
    Inventors: Steve Hoi-Cheong Sun, Swetha Chinnayelka, John P. Creaven, Andrew J. Edelbrock, Matthew B. Holzer, Narasinha C. Parasnis, Jeffery S. Reynolds, Paul M. Ripley, Steven C. Charlton, Xin Wang, Mu Wu
  • Patent number: 7854547
    Abstract: A tool is disclosed, for measuring the important thermal characteristics of a unit of electronic equipment, which obtains air flow and temperature readings at both air inlet and air outlet openings of the unit without disturbing cable or wiring connections or otherwise interrupting device operation. The tool pressure sensing element is rotatable between detented positions to permit the tool to be used at both air inlet and air outlet openings. The tool air duct portion may be formed of separate duct portions to enable a single duct portion including the sensing instrumentation to be used with multiple duct portions that conform to electronic device air inlet and outlet openings to impart added flexibility to the tool.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 7, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 21, 2010
    Assignee: International Business Machines Corporation
    Inventors: Alan Claassen, Dennis Hansen, Cary Huettner, Madhusudan Iyengar, Roger Schmidt, Kenneth Schneebeli, Gerard Weber, Jr.
  • Publication number: 20100316086
    Abstract: A system for measuring temperature includes a thermowell, a primary temperature sensor, a reference sensor, and a transmitter. The thermowell has a measurement instrument connection and a side port. The primary temperature sensor extends into the thermowell through the measurement instrument connection, and the reference sensor extends into the thermowell through the side port. The transmitter is connected to each of the primary temperature sensor and the reference sensor. The transmitter has circuitry for measuring temperature based upon signals received from the primary temperature sensor and for concurrently calibrating based upon signals received from the reference sensor.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 11, 2009
    Publication date: December 16, 2010
    Applicant: Rosemount Inc.
    Inventors: Loren Michael Engelstad, Dirk Willy Bauschke, Jason Harold Rud
  • Patent number: 7841766
    Abstract: A metal surface temperature measuring device includes: a container to contain a coolant; a measurement target; a heater to heat the measurement target; a moving mechanism for moving the measurement target; and a thermometer to measure the surface temperature of the measurement target. A main body of the measurement target is formed of silver or copper, and a surface of the main body is coated with a thin film of pure iron or an iron alloy at a thickness of 1 to 100 ?m. Further, at least the container, the heater, and the measurement target are disposed in a chamber of an inert gas atmosphere.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 14, 2006
    Date of Patent: November 30, 2010
    Assignee: Idemitsu Kosan Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Hideo Kanamori, Katsumi Ichitani