Dew Point Patents (Class 374/28)
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Patent number: 11525793Abstract: In an embodiment a method includes determining, for each capacitor element of a plurality of capacitor elements of a capacitor, an increase of a capacitance of a capacitor element caused by a decrease of a temperature of the capacitor and deriving a dew point from a temperature at which the increases of the capacitances or values corresponding to the increases of the capacitances exceed a predefined limit by generating a set of binary digits, each of the binary digits corresponding to one of the capacitor elements and indicating whether the capacitance of the capacitor element is within a predefined range, comparing sets of binary digits generated at different temperatures and determining a number of capacitor elements for which the corresponding binary digits of the sets are different and repeating the comparison for a sequence of sets generated at decreasing temperatures.Type: GrantFiled: April 8, 2021Date of Patent: December 13, 2022Assignee: SCIOSENSE B.V.Inventors: Dimitri Soccol, Viet Nguyen Hoang, David Van Steenwinckel, Roel Daamen, Pascal Bancken
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Patent number: 11495841Abstract: A method for detecting a water ingress into an interior of a housing, which is sealed against the surroundings, including the following steps: detecting a temperature of the air in the interior; detecting a relative air humidity in the interior; and detecting a water ingress as a function of the detected temperature and of the detected relative air humidity.Type: GrantFiled: November 12, 2019Date of Patent: November 8, 2022Assignee: Robert Bosch GmbHInventors: Thomas Jost, Walter Gronbach
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Patent number: 11236865Abstract: An automatic system and method to detect moisture in a compressed gas cylinder is faster, less labor intensive and has increased accuracy, including the ability to detect free moisture, over prior methods and devices. This device and method avoid the need to individually invert cylinders. A system to detect moisture level in a compressed gas cylinder includes a gas vent/fill line that is in fluid communication with a compressed gas cylinder; a vacuum system with a vacuum line and a vacuum pump connected to the vacuum line; and a dewpoint monitor connected to a dewpoint line and the vacuum line. When a compressed gas cylinder is connected to the gas vent/fill line, the vacuum pump draws gas from the gas vent/fill line into the vacuum line and the dewpoint line, and into the dewpoint monitor, where the dewpoint monitor measures moisture content in compressed gas.Type: GrantFiled: January 29, 2019Date of Patent: February 1, 2022Assignee: CRYOVATION, LLC.Inventor: Joseph K. Bernacki
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Patent number: 11002696Abstract: In an embodiment a dew point sensor device includes a semiconductor substrate, a top layer arranged on the semiconductor substrate, a Peltier element integrated in the semiconductor substrate, a temperature sensor, a capacitor arranged at a surface of the top layer facing away from the semiconductor substrate, the temperature sensor and the capacitor being arranged so that a temperature of the capacitor is measurable by the temperature sensor, wherein the capacitor includes a plurality of capacitor elements each having a capacitance, and an electronic circuit configured for an individual determination of the capacitances and a generation of a set of binary digits, each of the binary digits corresponding to one of the capacitor elements and indicating whether the capacitance of the capacitor element is within a predefined range.Type: GrantFiled: February 21, 2017Date of Patent: May 11, 2021Assignee: SCIOSENSE B.V.Inventors: Dimitri Soccol, Viet Nguyen Hoang, David Van Steenwinckel, Roel Daamen, Pascal Bancken
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Patent number: 10101219Abstract: A system, a method of use, and a Carbon Nanotube (CNT) condensation sensor for determining a dew point and/or ice point is provided. For example, a sensing system may include a thermal device configured to generate heating or cooling to change a temperature of a surface, a temperature sensor for measuring the temperature of the surface, a controller configured to control the thermal device, a carbon nanotube (CNT) condensation sensor mounted on the surface having a moisture sensitive resistance and a processor configured to determine one or more parameters based on the moisture sensitive resistance of the CNT condensation sensor and the temperature measured by the temperature sensor. The one or more parameter can be used to determine the dew point and/or ice point. A method for forming a carbon nanotube (CNT) condensation sensor is also provided.Type: GrantFiled: February 26, 2015Date of Patent: October 16, 2018Assignees: The Research Foundation for The State University of New York, Cosa XentaurInventors: Vladimir Samuilov, John Lewis Ayres
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Patent number: 10044506Abstract: An electronic device comprising: a cover; a sensing unit; a memory; and at least one processor operatively coupled to the memory and the cover, configured to: acquire authentication information by using the sensing unit; detect a current state of the cover; and disable a locking function in response to detecting that the cover is in a closed state and the authentication information satisfies a first condition.Type: GrantFiled: April 20, 2016Date of Patent: August 7, 2018Assignee: Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.Inventor: Jin Seo
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Patent number: 9188993Abstract: A method of maintaining a temperature of a surface in a building space to be above a dew point of the building space includes calculating a dew point based on a temperature measurement and a relative humidity measurement. The method further includes estimating a safety margin associated with the dew point calculation, determining a minimum temperature of the surface, wherein the minimum temperature is a function of the dew point and the safety margin, and commanding a first component of a building automation system to adjust a current temperature of the surface to be greater than the minimum temperature.Type: GrantFiled: November 2, 2012Date of Patent: November 17, 2015Assignee: Johnson Controls Technology CompanyInventor: Michael J. Wenzel
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Publication number: 20150063407Abstract: The invention provides a method for determining the dew point of a vaporised hydrocarbon feedstock, comprising heating a hydrocarbon feedstock and a hydrocarbon diluent to a first temperature and maintaining the feedstock and diluent at that temperature until all hydrocarbon feedstock is vaporized and a homogeneous mixture is obtained; passing a first flow of the mixture through a first zone maintained at a second temperature, which is lower than the first temperature; halting the first flow; passing a sweep gas through the first zone and providing the sweep gas to a detector for detecting hydrocarbons; decreasing the temperature of the first zone, wherein steps (c) to (f) are repeated at least until a hydrocarbon presence is detected in the sweep gas. The invention further provides a method for measuring the dew point of a steam cracker feed and a system for determining the dew point of a vaporised hydrocarbon feedstock.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 13, 2012Publication date: March 5, 2015Inventors: Jan Blomberg, Pieter Huizenga, Muralikrishna Venkatacharyulu Khandavilli, Walter Stanley Postula
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Publication number: 20140369377Abstract: A hygrometer and dew-point instrument is provided that is structurally simple while reducing the workload during maintenance. The hygrometer measures relative humidity of a measurement space, and has a main body that encapsulates a working fluid therein and causes a heat-pipe phenomenon. The main body is disposed across the measurement space and an external space spaced from the measurement space by a heat-insulating part and has a temperature lower than the measurement space. A first temperature deriving part derives the temperature of the main body in a section where the working fluid evaporates. A space temperature detecting unit detects the temperature of the measurement space. A computation unit calculate relative humidity of the measurement space based on the temperature of the main body derived by the first temperature deriving part and the temperature of the measurement space detected by the space temperature detecting unit.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 2, 2014Publication date: December 18, 2014Inventor: Shinichirou Sakami
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Patent number: 8894278Abstract: An apparatus and method to automate the process of measuring and verifying trace gas levels such as oxygen and dewpoint inside a retort used to coat or heat treat substrates are provided. The apparatus may include an integrated measuring system, and an operator interface. The method may include coupling the apparatus to the retort in which the substrate is coated or heat treated, activating the integrated measuring system to measure and verify atmospheric conditions within the retort, and providing operator access to process parameters and status through the operator interface. The measurement and verification system may be completely autonomous.Type: GrantFiled: January 6, 2012Date of Patent: November 25, 2014Assignee: United Technologies CorporationInventors: Manfried Carl Verch, Jr., Peter N. Horniak
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Publication number: 20140341250Abstract: A temperature sensor system for a vehicle includes a temperature sensor assembly having a thermally insulating body, a temperature sensing element thermally insulated within the body, and a thermally conductive contacting element exposed externally of the body and in thermal communication with the temperature sensing element. The thermally conductive contacting element is urged into contact with an interior cabin side of a windshield of the vehicle for sensing the temperature of the vehicle windshield. A controller, responsive to the temperature sensing element and another temperature sensing element and a humidity sensing element of the vehicle, is operable to calculate an ambient dew point and to control a cabin climate control system of the vehicle responsive to the calculated ambient dew point. The other temperature sensing element is mounted in the vehicle away from the vehicle windshield.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 4, 2014Publication date: November 20, 2014Inventors: Niall R. Lynam, Patrick J. Lawlor, Garrett Coady
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Patent number: 8851745Abstract: A hygrometer and dew-point instrument is provided that is structurally simple while reducing the workload during maintenance. The hygrometer measures relative humidity of a measurement space, and has a main body that encapsulates a working fluid therein and causes a heat-pipe phenomenon. The main body is disposed across the measurement space and an external space spaced from the measurement space by a heat-insulating part and has a temperature lower than the measurement space. A first temperature deriving part derives the temperature of the main body in a section where the working fluid evaporates. A space temperature detecting unit detects the temperature of the measurement space. A computation unit calculate relative humidity of the measurement space based on the temperature of the main body derived by the first temperature deriving part and the temperature of the measurement space detected by the space temperature detecting unit.Type: GrantFiled: July 25, 2012Date of Patent: October 7, 2014Assignee: Espec Corp.Inventor: Shinichirou Sakami
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Patent number: 8783945Abstract: A superheat sensor (1) for sensing superheat of a fluid flowing in a flow channel (3) is disclosed. The sensor (1) comprises a flexible wall defining an interface between an inner cavity (5) having a charge fluid (6) arranged therein and the flow channel (3). The flexible wall is arranged in the flow channel (3) in thermal contact with the fluid flowing therein, and the flexible wall is adapted to conduct heat between the flow channel (3) and the inner cavity (5). Thereby the temperature of the charge fluid (6) adapts to the temperature of the fluid flowing in the flow channel (3), and the pressure in the inner cavity (5) is determined by this temperature. A first wall part (7, 14) and a second wall part (9, 16) are arranged at a variable distance from each other, said distance being defined by a differential pressure between the pressure of the charge fluid (6) and the pressure of the fluid flowing in the flow channel (3), i.e.Type: GrantFiled: August 18, 2009Date of Patent: July 22, 2014Assignee: Danfoss A/SInventors: Asbjoern Leth Vonsild, Claus Thybo, Leo Bram, Jakob Spangberg
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Publication number: 20140192836Abstract: A dew and/or frost point measurement instrument and related method are disclosed. An electrically actuated micro/nanoscale resonating element is formed over a resonator substrate. A temperature controlled platform is provided in thermal communication with the resonator substrate. A temperature sensing element is provided in thermal communication with the resonating element. A sustaining amplifier stimulates the resonating element to maintain substantially continuous oscillations at one of its mechanical natural frequencies. A control circuitry monitors the resonator frequency, controls the temperature of the resonator substrate accordingly, and interprets a dew or frost point of a gaseous compound of interest.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 10, 2013Publication date: July 10, 2014Applicant: FEMTOSCALE, INC.Inventor: Paul C. Neilson
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Publication number: 20140185649Abstract: Disclosed systems and methods for testing a device under test (DUT) with a probe system are selected to test a DUT at a temperature below the dew point of the ambient environment surrounding the probe system. Probe systems include a measurement chamber configured to isolate a cool, dry testing environment and a measurement chamber door configured to selectively isolate the internal volume of the measurement chamber. When a DUT, that is or is included on a substrate, is tested at a low temperature, systems and methods are selected to heat the substrate in a dry environment, at least partially isolated from the measurement chamber, to at least a temperature above the dew point and/or the frost point of the ambient environment.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 27, 2013Publication date: July 3, 2014Applicant: Cascade Microtech, Inc.Inventors: Botho Hirschfeld, Axel Becker
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Patent number: 8727608Abstract: A moisture meter with non-contact temperature measurement capability having a housing, a moisture-detecting device coupled to or contained at least partially in the housing, and having an output related to measured moisture parameters, a non-contact, optically-based temperature sensing device coupled to the housing, having an output related to sensed temperature, an output display contained in the housing, for displaying measurements to a user, and circuitry contained in the housing for processing both the moisture-detecting device output and the non-contact temperature sensing device output, and transmitting the processed outputs to the output display. The moisture-detecting device can be either one or both of a contact-type moisture-detecting device such as a pad on the rear side of the housing, and a pin-type moisture-detecting device in a hand-held probe, and electrically coupled to the circuitry in the housing through a cord.Type: GrantFiled: August 20, 2007Date of Patent: May 20, 2014Assignee: FLiR Systems, Inc.Inventor: Gerald W. Blakeley, III
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Patent number: 8668384Abstract: An apparatus includes a temperature detector coupled to a conductive layer of an electrophoretic display device. The temperature detector is operable to measure a leakage current that is responsive to a temperature associated with the electrophoretic device and determine the temperature associated with the electrophoretic device based at least in part on the measured leakage current.Type: GrantFiled: October 7, 2010Date of Patent: March 11, 2014Assignee: Raytheon CompanyInventors: Benjamin M. Howe, Gary A. Frazier
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Patent number: 8641270Abstract: The invention relates to a field of measuring engineering. For increase in speed, sensitivity and accuracy of measurement of a hydrocarbon dew point, a method for hydrocarbon dew point temperature measurement is provided, comprising feeding gas to be studied onto a cooled element with a condensation surface onto which a light flux is directed at an angle providing its reflection in the observation aperture, a cooling of condensation surface of a cooled element and registering the value of the light flux reflected from the condensation surface, advent of the hydrocarbon dew point being determined on the basis of the registered value, and as a material for condensation surface of a cooled element use silicon.Type: GrantFiled: July 15, 2009Date of Patent: February 4, 2014Inventors: Alexandr Mikhailovich Derevyagin, Sergei Victorovich Seleznev, Alexandr Sergeevich Fomin
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Patent number: 8602640Abstract: A sensing system is configured to detect physical parameters of a fluid sample. In particular, the sensing system is configured to detect the dew point of the fluid by reducing temperature of a sensing medium and detecting the fluid condensate on a sensing surface by directing light from a light source to the sensing surface and detecting the light reflected off the sensing surface onto a light detector. The light source and the light detector are on the opposite side of the sensing medium from the sensing surface.Type: GrantFiled: May 20, 2009Date of Patent: December 10, 2013Assignee: Entegris—Jetalon Solutions, Inc.Inventors: Ronald P. Chiarello, Christopher Andrew Wacinski, Charles Eric Boyd, Stewart Robin Shearer
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Patent number: 8573842Abstract: A sensor control circuit for controlling a sensor unit for measuring a physical value includes a timing controller which selects periodically one or more sensor units among multiple sensor units and converts an output signal from the sensor unit to a continuous serial input signal, an oscillator which receives the serial input signal input by the controller and outputs a frequency signal corresponding to the output signal detected by the sensor unit, a counter which counts for a predetermined duration a number of pulses of the frequency signal output from the oscillator, a data converter which converts the number of pulses to voltage data and outputs the data, and an RLC selector which inputs to the converter information indicating a characteristic value on which the number of pulses is based. The characteristic value is resistance, inductance or electrostatic capacitance. The sensor units measure physical values, respectively.Type: GrantFiled: January 24, 2011Date of Patent: November 5, 2013Assignee: Ibiden Co., Ltd.Inventors: Zhenhua Shao, Christopher Lee Keller, Masataka Ito, Dongdong Wang
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Patent number: 8485720Abstract: The present invention relates to a measurement method of dew-point in low temperature, and more specifically to a measurement method of accurately distinguishing dew-point and frost-point using a quartz crystal microbalance dew-point sensor in a low temperature of 0° C. or less. To this end, the present invention provides a measurement method of distinguishing dew and frost point using a quartz crystal microbalance dew-point sensor in low temperature, comprising the steps of: measuring a resonant frequency of a quartz crystal microbalance dew-point sensor while slowly dropping temperature; observing shock waves of the resonant frequency; and determining dew point or frost point through the observation of the resonant frequency and shock waves of the quartz crystal microbalance dew-point sensor.Type: GrantFiled: December 26, 2007Date of Patent: July 16, 2013Assignee: Korea Research Institute of Standards and ScienceInventors: Su Yong Kwon, Jong Chul Kim, Byung Il Choi
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Publication number: 20130177038Abstract: An apparatus and method to automate the process of measuring and verifying trace gas levels such as oxygen and dewpoint inside a retort used to coat or heat treat substrates are provided. The apparatus may include an integrated measuring system, and an operator interface. The method may include coupling the apparatus to the retort in which the substrate is coated or heat treated, activating the integrated measuring system to measure and verify atmospheric conditions within the retort, and providing operator access to process parameters and status through the operator interface. The measurement and verification system may be completely autonomous.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 6, 2012Publication date: July 11, 2013Applicant: Pratt & WhitneyInventors: Manfried Carl Verch, JR., Peter N. Horniak
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Publication number: 20130077651Abstract: A wafer testing apparatus includes a temperature controller for comparing a predetermined first dew point with a second dew point in a prober, and a dry air controller for controlling an amount of dry air supplied into the prober based on a comparison result of the temperature controller.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 28, 2012Publication date: March 28, 2013Inventor: Ki-bong LEE
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Publication number: 20130039380Abstract: A sensor device is provided for detecting thawing on surfaces with interdigital electrodes formed in a resistance layer which is formed on a substrate. In order to develop the sensor device further so that the measuring speed of the sensor device is further increased, the disclosure proposes that the interdigital electrodes and recesses between the interdigital electrodes have a moisture-sensitive hydrophilic surface through condensation cores applied to it.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 16, 2012Publication date: February 14, 2013Applicant: Vishay BCcomponents Beyschlag GmbHInventors: Wolfgang Werner, Joachim Aurich, Sascha Werth
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Patent number: 8348501Abstract: A sensor for detecting icing conditions in an airstream includes a flow housing mounted on an aircraft and in which one or more probes are mounted. At least one of the probes subjected to impingement of the airstream and liquid moisture droplets in such airstream. The heat removal, or cooling effect on the probe in the airstream carrying liquid droplets is determined. A temperature signal indicating the airstream temperature is combined with signals from the at least one probe for determining whether or not icing conditions are present.Type: GrantFiled: July 28, 2011Date of Patent: January 8, 2013Assignee: Rosemount Aerospace, Inc.Inventor: John A. Severson
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Patent number: 8348500Abstract: A hygrometer and dew-point instrument is provided that is structurally simple while reducing the workload during maintenance. The hygrometer measures relative humidity of a measurement space, and has a main body that encapsulates a working fluid therein and causes a heat-pipe phenomenon. The main body is disposed across the measurement space and an external space spaced from the measurement space by a heat-insulating part and has a temperature lower than the measurement space. A first temperature deriving part derives the temperature of the main body in a section where the working fluid evaporates. A space temperature detecting unit detects the temperature of the measurement space. A computation unit calculate relative humidity of the measurement space based on the temperature of the main body derived by the first temperature deriving part and the temperature of the measurement space detected by the space temperature detecting unit.Type: GrantFiled: March 26, 2008Date of Patent: January 8, 2013Assignee: Espec Corp.Inventor: Shinichirou Sakami
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Publication number: 20120287961Abstract: A hygrometer and dew-point instrument is provided that is structurally simple while reducing the workload during maintenance. The hygrometer measures relative humidity of a measurement space, and has a main body that encapsulates a working fluid therein and causes a heat-pipe phenomenon. The main body is disposed across the measurement space and an external space spaced from the measurement space by a heat-insulating part and has a temperature lower than the measurement space. A first temperature deriving part derives the temperature of the main body in a section where the working fluid evaporates. A space temperature detecting unit detects the temperature of the measurement space. A computation unit calculate relative humidity of the measurement space based on the temperature of the main body derived by the first temperature deriving part and the temperature of the measurement space detected by the space temperature detecting unit.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 25, 2012Publication date: November 15, 2012Applicant: ESPEC CORP.Inventor: Shinichirou Sakami
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Patent number: 8308348Abstract: The invention relates to a device for determining the dew point temperature of a measurement gas, having a light guide, a condensation surface located on the light guide and whose reflectivity is dependent on the condensation of the measurement gas, a light source for emitting light through the light guide onto the condensation surface, a light sensor for determining the light intensity reflected back into the light guide by the condensation surface and means for adjusting the temperature of the condensation surface, which has a semihydrophobic construction.Type: GrantFiled: July 28, 2005Date of Patent: November 13, 2012Assignee: Bartec Benke GmbHInventors: Alfred Boehm, Wilhelm Binder
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Patent number: 8292497Abstract: Cloud point monitoring systems for determining a cloud point temperature value for diesel fuel are provided. In one exemplary embodiment, a cloud point monitoring system receives diesel fuel in the tubular conduit and propagates light through the diesel fuel. The cloud point monitoring system further determines a cloud point temperature value indicative of a cloud point of the diesel fuel based on a light intensity level of the light that has propagated through cooled diesel fuel.Type: GrantFiled: July 16, 2008Date of Patent: October 23, 2012Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations LLCInventors: Bryan K. Pryor, William C. Albertson, Mike M. McDonald
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Patent number: 8220988Abstract: A sensor device is provided for detecting thawing on surfaces with interdigital electrodes formed in a resistance layer which is formed on a substrate. In order to develop the sensor device further so that the measuring speed of the sensor device is further increased, the disclosure proposes that the interdigital electrodes and recesses between the interdigital electrodes have a moisture-sensitive hydrophilic surface through condensation cores applied to it.Type: GrantFiled: November 2, 2007Date of Patent: July 17, 2012Assignee: Vishay BCcomponents Beyschlag GmbHInventors: Wolfgang Werner, Joachim Aurich, Sascha Werth
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Publication number: 20120069866Abstract: The invention relates to a field of measuring engineering. For increase in speed, sensitivity and accuracy of measurement of a hydrocarbon dew point, a method for hydrocarbon dew point temperature measurement is provided, comprising feeding gas to be studied onto a cooled element with a condensation surface onto which a light flux is directed at an angle providing its reflection in the observation aperture, a cooling of condensation surface of a cooled element and registering the value of the light flux reflected from the condensation surface, advent of the hydrocarbon dew point being determined on the basis of the registered value, and as a material for condensation surface of a cooled element use silicon.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 15, 2009Publication date: March 22, 2012Inventors: Alexandr Mikhailovich Derevyagin, Sergei Victorovich Seleznev, Alexandr Sergeevich Fomin
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Patent number: 8083398Abstract: A sensor arrangement comprises a dew point sensor for measuring the dew point characteristic in a room, and a temperature sensor for measuring the temperature characteristic on a wall surface of the room, means being provided for evaluating and/or storing the measured dew point characteristic and the measured wall surface temperature characteristic.Type: GrantFiled: November 25, 2008Date of Patent: December 27, 2011Assignee: SITRONIC Ges.fuer elektrotechnische Ausruestung mbH & Co. KGInventor: Wolfgang Doll
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Patent number: 8079755Abstract: The present invention discloses a solar energy powered outdoor temperature and humidity detection device comprising a cover panel and a display panel. The cover panel further comprises a solar power supply unit and a temperature and humidity detection unit. The cover panel and the display panel are pivotally coupled by at least one pivotal member. The display panel further comprises a display screen and a microcomputer circuit. The microcomputer circuit receives temperature and humidity information from the temperature and humidity detection unit. The temperature and humidity information is transferred to the display screen by the microcomputer circuit and presented on the display screen. The display panel further has an attaching member, whereby the present invention can be mounted on a piece of glass. Thus, the solar power supply unit can absorb sunlight and generate direct current powering the temperature and humidity detection unit to detect outdoor temperature and humidity.Type: GrantFiled: October 3, 2008Date of Patent: December 20, 2011Inventor: Yi-Chia Liao
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Patent number: 7946505Abstract: An environmental control system for a vehicle, in particular for predicting internal misting of a vehicle windscreen, the system comprising a windscreen temperature sensor assembly 28, an ambient humidity sensor assembly 32 and a second temperature sensor assembly 30 for sensing the temperature of the humidity sensor assembly 32. The windscreen temperature sensor assembly 28 is mounted on an interior rearview mirror support bracket 10 for engagement with the interior surface 18 of the windscreen, and the second temperature and humidity sensor assemblies are mounted within a rearview mirror housing 12 mounted to the mirror support bracket 10.Type: GrantFiled: September 15, 2005Date of Patent: May 24, 2011Assignee: Magna Donnelly Engineering GmbHInventors: Niall R. Lynam, Patrick J. Lawlor, Garrett Coady
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Publication number: 20100294025Abstract: An object of the present invention is to provide an apparatus and a method by which quantities of water vapor passing through a measured object can be measured with high sensitivity and in a short time period. The apparatus and method measure water vapor permeability of the measured object based on a dew point temperature in a second space measured after introducing water vapor into a first space, wherein the first space and the second space are parted from each other by the measured object, and wherein the first space is maintained at a predetermined temperature and a predetermined humidity under atmospheric pressure, and the second space is maintained in a dry state with a dew point temperature of ?70° C. or less under atmospheric pressure.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 26, 2008Publication date: November 25, 2010Inventors: Daisuke Omori, Hirohiko Murakami, Hiroyuki Yamakawa, Satoaki Ikeuchi
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Patent number: 7794140Abstract: A method and system for monitoring the quality of a given gas mixture being transmitted under pressure by throttling a sample of the gas mixture to a representative pressure and measuring the hydrocarbon dew point of the sample at the representative pressure. The measured hydrocarbon dew point is indicative of the cricondentherm of the gas mixture. The representative pressure is pre-selected to provide a pre-selected margin of error between measured hydrocarbon dew points of a set of representative gas mixtures at the representative pressure and respective cricondentherms of the set of representative gas mixtures.Type: GrantFiled: February 7, 2008Date of Patent: September 14, 2010Assignee: Transcanada Pipelines LimitedInventors: Kamal Botros, Steve Hall, John Geerligs
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Patent number: 7736051Abstract: In a thermoelectric device, a thermoelectric element has one surface on a low temperature side and the other surface on a high temperature side. A member is attached to at least one of the low- and high-temperature-side surfaces of the thermoelectric element. A temperature detection element is provided between the member and the surface of the thermoelectric element to which the member is attached. A mirror surface state detection device is also disclosed.Type: GrantFiled: March 30, 2005Date of Patent: June 15, 2010Assignee: Yamatake CorporationInventors: Yoshiyuki Kanai, Kazumasa Ibata, Shigeki Shoji, Masaki Takechi, Zentaro Nakamura, Masahiro Komatsu, Ken Iwakiri, Ryu Akimoto, Shingo Masumoto
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Publication number: 20100128751Abstract: A sensor arrangement comprises a dew point sensor for measuring the dew point characteristic in a room, and a temperature sensor for measuring the temperature characteristic on a wall surface of the room, means being provided for evaluating and/or storing the measured dew point characteristic and the measured wall surface temperature characteristic.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 25, 2008Publication date: May 27, 2010Inventor: Wolfgang Doll
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Publication number: 20100054299Abstract: A sensor device is provided for detecting thawing on surfaces with interdigital electrodes formed in a resistance layer which is formed on a substrate. In order to develop the sensor device further so that the measuring speed of the sensor device is further increased, the disclosure proposes that the interdigital electrodes and recesses between the interdigital electrodes have a moisture-sensitive hydrophilic surface through condensation cores applied to it.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 2, 2007Publication date: March 4, 2010Applicant: VISHAY BCCOMPONENTS BEYSCHLAG GMBHInventors: Wolfgang Werner, Joachim Aurich, Sascha Werth
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Publication number: 20100040106Abstract: A hygrometer and dew-point instrument is provided that is structurally simple while reducing the workload during maintenance. The hygrometer measures relative humidity of a measurement space, and has a main body that encapsulates a working fluid therein and causes a heat-pipe phenomenon. The main body is disposed across the measurement space and an external space spaced from the measurement space by a heat-insulating part and has a temperature lower than the measurement space. A first temperature deriving part derives the temperature of the main body in a section where the working fluid evaporates. A space temperature detecting unit detects the temperature of the measurement space. A computation unit calculate relative humidity of the measurement space based on the temperature of the main body derived by the first temperature deriving part and the temperature of the measurement space detected by the space temperature detecting unit.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 26, 2008Publication date: February 18, 2010Applicant: Espec Corp.Inventor: Shinichirou Sakami
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Publication number: 20090304041Abstract: An apparatus for determining the moisture of a surface, particularly a wall surface device for determining a room dew point, a surface temperature device for determining the surface temperature by means of an infrared radiation measuring instrument, and an assembly for determining the surface moisture from the room dew point and the surface temperature.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 27, 2006Publication date: December 10, 2009Inventors: Manfred Streicher, Frank Eder, Martin Rombach, Martin Stratmann, Andreas Messerschmid, Lars Hinkelmann, Patrick Zahn, Karl Schuler
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Patent number: 7624758Abstract: A fluid flow controller (1) comprises a variable aperture flow control valve (5) having an inlet to receive fluid from a supply source and an outlet to deliver fluid along a conduit (6). Downstream of the valve (5) is a back-pressure regulator (8), which in turn delivers fluid to an outlet (9), whilst a permanently open orifice (11) is connected to the conduit (6) upstream of the regulator and provided with an exhaust outlet (12), the characteristics of the valve (5), regulator (8) and orifice (11) being so selected that upon a slight opening of the valve (5), the regulator (8) maintains a closed condition, while further opening of the valve (5) raises the fluid pressure at the regulator (8) which commences opening, to provide a continuous exhaust flow at the exhaust outlet (12), to extend the satisfactory operating range of the flow control valve (5) down to very low flow rates. The controller (1) is suitable for use with a sulphuric acid dewpoint monitor.Type: GrantFiled: October 3, 2006Date of Patent: December 1, 2009Assignee: Land Instruments International LtdInventor: Richard Eric Whiteside
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Publication number: 20090201970Abstract: A method and system for monitoring the quality of a given gas mixture being transmitted under pressure by throttling a sample of the gas mixture to a representative pressure and measuring the hydrocarbon dew point of the sample at the representative pressure. The measured hydrocarbon dew point is indicative of the cricondentherm of the gas mixture. The representative pressure is pre-selected to provide a pre-selected margin of error between measured hydrocarbon dew points of a set of representative gas mixtures at the representative pressure and respective cricondentherms of the set of representative gas mixtures.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 7, 2008Publication date: August 13, 2009Applicant: TRANSCANADA PIPELINES LIMITEDInventors: KAMAL BOTROS, STEVE HALL, JOHN GEERLIGS
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Patent number: 7553071Abstract: A sensor unit (1) comprises at least one sensor (3) that is arranged on a circuit board (2) and a cover (4) for the sensor (3). The cover (4) is open toward the circuit board (2) and adjoins the circuit board (2) in the installed state. The underside (14) of the circuit board simultaneously forms part of the seal. The at least one sensor (3) is completely climate-encapsulated.Type: GrantFiled: March 6, 2004Date of Patent: June 30, 2009Assignee: Sitronic Gesellschaft für Elektrotechnische Ausrüstung mbH & Co. KGInventors: Stefan Legl, Gerold Stauss
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Publication number: 20090086789Abstract: Apparatus, systems and methods for coordinated detecting condensation utilizing a wet bulb and dry bulb temperature differential are disclosed. According to exemplary embodiments, a condensation detector may include; a first temperature sensor which generates a first temperature signal corresponding to a temperature measured at the first temperature sensor, a second temperature sensor which generates a second temperature signal corresponding to a temperature measured at the second temperature sensor, a connector having a first end connected to the first temperature sensor, and a detector which receives the first and the second temperature signals and determines the presence of condensation at a second end of the connector based on differences between the first and second temperature signals.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 28, 2007Publication date: April 2, 2009Applicant: INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS MACHINES CORPORATIONInventors: Daniel J. Kearney, Mark A. Marnell, Kenneth A. Shadoff, Randy J. Zoodsma
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Patent number: 7400975Abstract: A probe for use in a computerized plant selection and health maintenance system comprises a controller having a processor adopted to process environmental data received from a plurality of sensors and a communications interface adapted to transmit environmental data; and a soil mount removably engaged with the controller having a receptacle adapted to snugly receive the communications interface and a stake adapted to removably engage with soil. The receptacle advantageously allows engagement and disengagement of the controller from the soil mount by hand without the need for tools or independent attachment mechanisms, which has heightened importance where portability of the controller is required, and protects sensitive electronic components of the controller, such as the communications interface, from environmental contaminants.Type: GrantFiled: February 28, 2007Date of Patent: July 15, 2008Assignee: PlantSense, LLCInventors: Matthew K. Glenn, David L. Wilkins
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Patent number: 7380980Abstract: The long-side surface of a triangular prism is a detection surface. The distal end portions of coaxial light-emitting/light-receiving optical fiber cables are joined to one short-side surface of the prism. A thermoelectric cooling element is mounted on the other short-side surface of the prism. A mirror is provided between the cooling surface of the thermoelectric cooling element and the short-side surface. When dew condensation occurs on the detection surface, part of light applied from an optical fiber on the light-emitting side onto the lower surface of the detection surface exits from the prism through the condensed dew. The specular reflection returns to the lower detection surface by a mirror surface and is specularly reflected again. The specular reflection then enters an optical fiber on the light-emitting side. Dew condensation on the detection surface is detected by a change in the intensity of light received through the optical fiber.Type: GrantFiled: March 16, 2005Date of Patent: June 3, 2008Assignee: Yamatake CorporationInventors: Yoshiyuki Kanai, Kazumasa Ibata, Masaki Takechi, Shingo Masumoto, Yasuhiro Kajio, Shigeki Shoji, Ryu Akimoto
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Patent number: 7350970Abstract: The invention relates to measuring engineering. In order to increase accuracy by increasing sensitivity, for the inventive dew point measurement method a light flux polarized in the plane of incidence thereof is used and directed towards the condensation surface of a dielectric cooled element at an angle at which the light flux is not reflected from the condensation surface of the cooled element in the absence of condensate.Type: GrantFiled: May 25, 2004Date of Patent: April 1, 2008Inventors: Alexandr Mikhailovich Derevyagin, Alexander Sergeevich Fomin, Sergei Viktorovich Seleznev
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Patent number: 7334938Abstract: An apparatus for monitoring environmental conditions favorable for mold, mildew and fungus growth includes a microprocessor having a data map, a temperature sensor attached to the microprocessor, a relative humidity sensor attached to the microprocessor, an indicator array attached to the microprocessor, and a power supply attached to the microprocessor. The map has a plurality of relative humidity and temperature combinations and one or more suggested actions, for the user, based on the combinations. The indicator array may be a single warning light or an array with a plurality of warning lights. The indicator array may also be a text display or an audio speaker for displaying one or more ambient conditions or suggested actions. Barometric pressure data may also be included with the map for more comprehensive suggestions for action.Type: GrantFiled: February 11, 2005Date of Patent: February 26, 2008Inventor: Ralph Remsburg
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Patent number: 7237946Abstract: The inventive IR camera is used to identify areas of a surface in which there is an increased risk of condensation, by imaging the surface determining, from humidity and temperature values, a condensation temperature at which there is a risk of condensation on the surface, comparing the temperature in at least one image point registered by the camera to the condensation temperature coloring any image points having a temperature lower than the condensation temperature in a particular color, or grey tone, selected to indicate an increased risk of condensation.Type: GrantFiled: October 26, 2004Date of Patent: July 3, 2007Assignee: FLIR Systems ABInventors: Kjell Lindström, Christoph König