Abstract: A method and apparatus are provided for determining a process parameter of a material in a processing system having two containers. The material being monitored is disposed in one container and a single thermal energy control device is applied to both containers. The heat flux of each container is determined while the single thermal control device is applied to both containers. The process parameter is determined in accordance with the determined heat flux. The thermal energy control device may be a single heating surface for warming the two containers, or a cooling device such as a refrigerator. The process parameter may be the drying rate of the material and the drying rate can be determined during the processing of the material. The drying rate and the percent of drying can be displayed and the thermal energy level of the containers can be controlled according to the determined drying rate. A calibration procedure for calibrating the apparatus is also provided.

Abstract: A remote optical heat-flux gauge for use in extremely high temperature environments is described. This application is possible because of the use of thermographic phosphors as the sensing media, and the omission of the need for an intervening layer of insulator between phosphor layers. The gauge has no electrical leads, but is interrogated with ultraviolet or laser light. The luminescence emitted by the two phosphor layers, which is indicative of the temperature of the layers, is collected and analyzed in order to determine the heat flux incident on the surface being investigated. The two layers of thermographic phosphor must be of different materials to assure that the spectral lines collected will be distinguishable. Spatial heat-flux measurements can be made by scanning the light across the surface of the gauge.

Abstract: The sensor unit consists of a scale model of the vehicle mounted on the roof of the vehicle itself. The sensor unit measures the amount of energy exchange necessary to obtain the desired air-conditioning in its interior environment and generates a signal, which is of a predictive nature, indicating the amount of energy exchange necessary to obtain the corresponding air-conditioning in the passenger compartment of the vehicle.

Abstract: Integrated design of a combustion pressure sensor (11, 12, 13, 14) and combustion heat-flow sensor (21) which is suitable for determining a physical variable of the combustion process of an engine.

Abstract: The present invention is a quantitative method for measuring the total heat flux, and of deriving the total power dissipation, of a heat-fluxing object which includes the steps of placing an electrical noise-emitting heat-fluxing object in a liquid helium bath and measuring the superfluid transition temperature of the bath. The temperature of the liquid helium bath is thereafter reduced until some measurable parameter, such as the electrical noise, exhibited by the heat-fluxing object or a temperature-dependent resistive thin film in intimate contact with the heat-fluxing object, becomes greatly reduced. The temperature of the liquid helum bath is measured at this point. The difference between the superfluid transition temperature of the liquid helium bath surrounding the heat-fluxing object, and the temperature of the liquid helium bath when the electrical noise emitted by the heat-fluxing object becomes greatly reduced, is determined.

Abstract: The invention is an apparatus and method for measuring the heat transfer and the rate of heat transfer in thermal exchange processes such as food processing, thermosetting of plastics, and freezing processes. The apparatus comprises a target module and a data recording module. The target module comprises a target having a known mass and known thermal characteristics. The black body edge effects of the target are minimized by an edge shield positioned adjacent to the target. The edge shield is physically separated from the target so that conductive heat transfer between the two elements is minimized. The edge shield supports the target such that at least one surface of the target is exposed to the surrounding environment. A temperature sensor measures the change in temperature of the target. The data recording module may be insulated so that the calorimetric data may be recorded in extreme temperature environments.

Abstract: The unknown amount or mass of liquid contained in a storage tank is measured by calibrating the tank in an empty and partially full condition. The calibration includes measuring the mass of the empty tank, and is accomplished by applying a measured amount of heater power or energy to the tank and its contents, and measuring the temperature response to determine the product of total mass multiplied by specific heat. The specific heat depends upon the mass or amount of liquid in the tank, but a linear relationship is established between total mass and the product of total mass times specific heat. The unknown mass of liquid is then determined by applying a known amount of heater power or energy to the tank and its contents, and measuring the temperature rise or rate of rise in response thereto.

Abstract: A triaxial thermopile array geothermal heat flow sensor is designed to measure heat flow in three dimensions in a reconstituted or unperturbed subsurface regime. Heat flow can be measured in conductive or permeable convective media. The sensor may be encased in protective pvc tubing and includes a plurality of thermistors and an array of heat flow transducers arranged in a vertical string. The transducers produce voltage proportional to heat flux along the subsurface regime and permit direct measurement of heat flow in the subsurface regime. The presence of the thermistor array permits a comparison to be made between the heat flow estimates obtained from the transducers and heat flow calculated using temperature differences and Fourier's Law. The device is extremely sensitive with an accuracy of less than 0.1 Heat Flow Units (HFU) and may be used for long term readings.

Abstract: A method of making a plug-type heat flux gauge in a material specimen in which a thermoplug is integrally formed. The thermoplug and concentric annulus are formed in the material specimen by electrical discharge machining and trepanning procedures. The thermoplug is surrounded by a concentric annulus through which thermocouple wires are routed. The end of each thermocouple wire is welded to the thermoplug, with each thermocouple wire welded at a different location along the length of the thermoplug.

Abstract: An apparatus for measuring heat flow from a surface, including a heat flow measuring device for measuring heat flow from a surface; a structure for applying a relatively constant and repeatable force on the heat flow measuring device contacting the surface; an infrared pyrometer for measuring test surface temperature; an infrared pyrometer for measuring surrounding atmospheric temperature and a free standing support for supporting all of the above identified elements of the heat flow measuring device.

Abstract: A plug-type heat flux gauge formed in a material specimen and having a thermoplug integrally formed in the material specimen, and a method for making the same. The thermoplug is surrounded by a concentric annulus, through which thermocouple wires are routed. The end of each thermocouple wire is welded to the thermoplug, with each thermocouple wire welded at a different location along the length of the thermoplug. The thermoplug and concentric annulus may be formed in the material specimen by electrical discharge machining and trepanning procedures.

Abstract: A heat flux gauge comprising first and second thermographic phosphor layers separated by a layer of a thermal insulator. The gauge may be mounted on a surface with the first thermographic phosphor in contact with the surface. A light source is directed at the gauge, causing the phosphors to luminesce. The luminescence produced by the phosphors is collected and its spectra analyzed in order to determine the heat flux on the surface. First and second phosphor layers must be different materials to assure that the spectral lines collected will be distinguishable.

Abstract: A heat flux gauge comprising first and second thermographic phosphor layers separated by a layer of a thermal insulator wherein each thermographic layer comprises a plurality of respective thermographic phosphors. The gauge may be mounted on a surface with the first thermographic phosphor in contact with the surface. A light source is directed at the gauge, causing the phosphors to luminesce. The luminescence produced by the phosphors is collected and its spectra analyzed in order to determine the heat flux on the surface. First and second phosphor layers must be different materials to assure that the spectral lines collected will be distinguishable.

Abstract: An apparatus for determining heat flow at an interface between a water surface and the atmosphere comprising a floatable transparent panel member having a lower surface in contact with the water and an upper surface covered with a thin layer of water. A plurality of thermocouples are carried on both surfaces of the panel member for sensing the temperature of the water and the water layer in contact with the atmosphere. Electronic circuit means operatively associated with the thermocouple means records the temperature readings whereby the difference between the temperatures provides a measure of the heat flow at the interface.

Abstract: A method for determination of the thermal conduction coefficient of a material sample comprises measurement of momentary temperature differences between two opposite surfaces of the material sample and measurement of heat supplied by a heater. Said material sample is placed in a system composed of the heater, two identical reference samples having known thermal conduction coefficient and two heat sinks. The material sample and the heater are sandwiched between the two heat sinks. All of them as so arranged are maintained in thermal contacts with each other. The measurements are made during a continuous linear change of the temperature of the two heat sinks.

Abstract: A heat flux gauge comprising first and second thermographic phosphor layers separated by a layer of a thermal insulator, wherein each thermographic layer comprises a plurality of respective thermographic sensors in a juxtaposed relationship with respect to each other. The gauge may be mounted on a surface with the first thermographic phosphor in contact with the surface. A light source is directed at the gauge, causing the phosphors to luminesce. The luminescence produced by the phosphors is collected and its spectra analyzed in order to determine the heat flux on the surface. First and second phosphor layers must be different materials to assure that the spectral lines collected will be distinguishable.

Abstract: Heat transfer between a surface and an environment, such as a steam/air mixture in a pressure vessel, is determined by directing heat transferred to the surface to a location away from the environment by use of a heat pipe. The heat content of the working fluid of the heat pipe is determined by causing a fluid to flow through a jacket encircling the condensation part of the heat pipe and measuring the mass flow of the fluid and the temperature change. The method is particularly useful in determining heat transfer coefficients for use in safety analysis for pressurized water reactor power stations.

Abstract: A method for measuring a heat transfer coefficient between a heat transfer element and a fluid comprising a measurement of a calorific value by placing the heat transfer element into the fluid and charing the heat transfer element with electricity. A calorific value of a particular surface of the heat transfer element is the true calorific value of the entire heat transfer element, since the particular surface of the heat transfer element is thermally insulated from a residual surface of the heat transfer element so as to prevent a heat transfer of the residual surface of the heat transfer element.

Abstract: A detection unit essentially consists of (I) a plurality of calorimetric detection elements for the conduction flow type calorimeter each consisting essentially of a plurality of thermopiles severally supported on heat sinks and (II) a heat insulating member interposed between the adjacent calorimetric detection elements. A calorimetric measuring member for a conduction flow type calorimeter comprises a pair of the detection units and a sample pipe fixed in place between the pair of detection units.

Abstract: A single sensor is provided as part of a fiberoptic probe to measure up to three parameters, namely pressure (or force or displacement), temperature, and heat flow or fluid velocity. A solid elastomeric optical element is formed at the end of optical fiber transmission medium, and adjacent light reflective and temperature dependent materials are formed on the resulting convex surface of the optical element. The amount of light reflected is proportional to the force or pressure against the element. The temperature dependent material is preferably a luminescent material. Over the luminescent material is formed a layer of material that is absorptive of infrared radiation, thereby allowing a determination of characteristics of heat or fluid flow by measuring the rate at which heat is carried away from the infrared heated layer. The sensor can be formed at the end of a single optical fiber, thereby having extensive applications where a very small sensor is required.

Abstract: An apparatus for measuring heat flow from a surface, including a heat flow measuring device for measuring heat flow from a surface; a structure for applying a relatively constant and repeatable force on the heat flow measuring device contacting the surface; a free standing support for supporting the heat flow measuring device and the force applying structure, and an infrared pyrometer for measuring the temperature of the surface.

Abstract: There is provided by the present invention an apparatus for measuring thermal conductivity. The apparatus is mainly composed of (a) a container adiabatically enclosing an inner space, (b) a heat source for heating a first surface of a specimen to be placed to divide the inner surface into a first space and a second space; (c) a first thermometer to measure the temperature of the first surface of the specimen; (d) a heat-flow-measuring means disposed in contact with the second surface of the specimen, for maintaining the temperature of the second surface of the specimen at a predetermined temperature and for measuring the thermal energy flowing through the second surface; and (e) a second thermometer for measuring the temperature of the second surface of the specimen.

Abstract: Heat flux distribution and heat transfer coefficient distribution over a surface of a component used in a high temperature environment are determined by supplying coolant of predetermined characteristics to the component and measuring a temperature distribution over a predetermined surface. The heat flux at each temperature measurement point on the surface of the component is determined from heat flux calibration data obtained before the component is placed in service and while it is being operated at in-service cooling conditions. The heat transfer coefficient at various locations on the surface of the component is determined from the heat flux indicated by the heat flux calibration data, the temperature of the surface, and the temperature of the environment in which the component is situated.

Abstract: The thermal performance of cooling circuits for cooled components, such as turbine blades used in gas turbine engines, may be determined by applying a known amount of heat flux to a predetermined surface of the component, directing a cooling fluid flow having predetermined characteristics through the cooling circuit of the component, and measuring a temperature distribution on a preselected surface of the component.The thermal performance of heating circuits for heated components, such as those involved in clearance control in a gas turbine engine, or other components in which a controlled thermal contraction or expansion is desired, may be determined by applying a known amount of heat flux to a predetermined surface of the component, applying a cooling fluid flow having predetermined characteristics to the heating circuits, and measuring a temperature distribution on a preselected surface of the component.

Abstract: An apparatus for measuring heat flow from a surface, including a heat flow measuring device for measuring heat flow from a surface; a structure for applying a relatively constant and repeatable force on the heat flow measuring device contacting the surface; and a free standing support for supporting the heat flow measuring device and the force applying structure.

Abstract: Thermal conductivity, thermal diffusivity and/or fluid perfusion within a medium such as cutaneous tissue is non-invasively measured by at least two heating and temperature sensor. One sensor is positioned in thermal communication with the medium and a second sensor is positioned thermal communication with the first sensor. Both sensor are heated (or cooled) so as to substantially prevent net heat flow between them. In this manner, net heat flow between the first sensor and the medium can be measured, which measurements allow determination of the thermal conductivity, thermal diffusivity and/or fluid perfusion within the medium.

Abstract: A device is provided for measuring the intensity of a radiative flux and optionally also a convective flux, including a thin support made from an insulating material; a thin continuous strip of meandering shape made from a first conducting material; a series of discontinuous deposits made from a second conducting material having a thermoelectric power different from that of the first material and a high electric conductivity, the whole of the deposits and of the associated underlying strip portion forming an elementary thermocouple and having, in the transverse direction with respect to the direction of extension of the strip, a width which varies between its two ends, the variation in width being in the same direction for the successive deposits along the strip; and a coating with high emissivity intimately covering at least the successive deposits. The device may also include a heat conducting layer.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for indirectly measuring the solid-liquid interface equilibrium temperature dynamically excites the heat flux flowing through a coldfinger arrangement followed by a statistical estimation of the interface temperature, solid layer heat conductivity and thickness ratio, bulk liquid temperature and thermal heat transfer coefficient. The coldfinger includes a pair of substantially concentric and substantially cylindrical members arranged one within another so as to have an outer member and a venturi-shaped inner member and a space therebetween. The members are arranged such that a gas flows through the inner member and a space between the inner and outer members of the coldfinger and then exits the coldfinger arrangement.

Abstract: Double-sided, high-frequency response heat flux gauge for use on metal tune blading consists of a metal film (1500A) resistance thermometer sputtered on both sides of a thin (25 .mu.m) polyimide sheet. The temperature difference across the polyimide is a direct measure of the heat flux at low frequencies, while a quasi-one-dimensional analysis is used to infer the high-frequency heat flux from the upper surface history. A new method of calibrating the heat flux gauge utilizes light source applied to a plurality of fluids covering the surface of the gauge, measuring the temporal output of the gauge and utilizing derived calibration formula.

Abstract: Heat is used to determine liquid level in a storage tank. An elongated heater that produces heat uniformly along its length is mounted vertically on the outside surface of the tank to extend substantially the full height of the tank. An elongated thermopile having a multiplicity of hot and cold junction pairs uniformly spaced along its length covers the heater so that heat from the heater travels in two different opposite directions, namely a first portion of the heat travels from the heater through the tank wall and into the tank; the other portion of the heat travels in the opposite direction from the heater through the thermopile and then into the ambient atmosphere. A meter indicates the amount of heat flow through the thermopile and its indication changes with change in level of the liquid in the tank.

Abstract: A system for automatically controlling heating and air conditioning equipment that make up the environmental control system in a building. The system measures heat flow into and out of the building by means of an infrared sensor mounted on an inner wall and directed toward an outer wall or window. In the winter the system logic monitors the ambient temperature and if sufficient heat flow is present to allow the incoming thermo energy to heat the internal environment to the desired set point, the system directs the shut off of the furnace. In summer the system logic decides when the heat flow has decreased to a point that the air conditioning equipment can be shut down. An adjustable time delay is response to heat flow is used to compensate for rapid changes in heat flow experienced during partially cloudy days.

Abstract: A microprocessor-based perimeter thermal energy control system regulates heating and cooling in the perimeter area of a building in accordance with instantaneous and integrated heat flow measurements and instantaneous temperature deviation measurements. Control of heat pumps and air conditioning units is provided as is automatic switching between heating and cooling. The inherent thermal parameters of the space are inductively determined and used by the system to continually self-adapt to the heat flow properties of the space. The gain of the heat flow based control system is varied automatically as a function of the deviation between the actual space temperature and the desired set point temperature. Morning recovery is initiated and regulated in response to instantaneous and integrated heat flow measurements and inductively determined thermal space parameters and produces a near linear stepwise change in the temperature of the space from night setback to occupancy temperature.

Abstract: The invention is a heat flux gage applied to a surface, for the measurement of surface heat transfer. All elements of the gage are thin films, deposited on the surface by sputtering or an equivalent process. The gage comprises a plurality of thermocouple junctions connected as a differential thermopile, with hot and cold junctions on the two faces of a planar thermal resistance element. Electrical insulating and protective layers are deposited between the surface and the gage, and over the exterior of the gage. The gage output signal is a voltage indicative of heat flux.

Abstract: In a method of determining the rate of heat transfer from a surface due to liquid convection, a coating of a material capable of dissolving in the convecting liquid and whose optical properties on irradiation are proportional to the thickness of the coating, is applied to the surface and is then exposed to radiation and to the convecting liquid, the change in the amount of radiation transmitted or reflected from the coating giving an indication of the rate of heat transfer.

Abstract: A thermocouple rake for measuring the temperature of heated fluids. The thermocouple rake is provided with a cooling chamber for circulating a coolant about individual thermocouple assemblies to cool the assemblies during use in the hot gas. A U-shaped channel is formed downstream in the flow of fluid to accept lead wires from the thermocouple assemblies to deflect the hot gas fluid from contacting the lead wires.

Abstract: This radiometer accurately measures IR and solar spectrum radiation in a vacuum, and accounts for radiation loss from its sensing plate by measuring the housing temperature. Calibration is performed by measuring the temperature of the sensing plate and housing while power to a heater attached to the sensing plate is varied. The square of the difference between the measured power dissipation of the heater and the heat absorbed by the sensing plate as determined from the heat balance equation of the sensing plate is minimized to obtain calibration factors for the heat balance equation.

Abstract: A monitor for determining a buildup of slag on the flame side of water cooled walls of coal fired steam generators and other heat transfer surfaces. This monitor has a body to be positioned in an orientation similar to the water tubes of the steam generator (or other heat transfer surfaces) so that any deleterious buildup on the surfaces will also be effected upon the exterior of the monitor. Positioned within the body of the monitor is a temperature sensor, such is a thermocouple having at least a hot junction. Also positioned within the body and proximate the sensor (e.g., thermocouple) is a heater unit having a high temperature portion located proximate the hot junction. In this manner, when the heater is energized, the hot junction is raised to a preselected temperature. By monitoring the time constant of temperature change of the sensor with current to the heater being cycled, information as to the degree of buildup on the exterior of the body can be obtained.

Abstract: A heat flux meter determines the heat transfer characteristics prior to processing or during steady-state autoclave heating conditions utilizing a monitoring element selected-thereof such that lumped heat transfer analysis is applicable thereto. During the curing process of a material, the heat flux meter calculates the instantaneous convection film coefficient for a particular location and determines the total present heat flux to an object.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for determination the thermal conduction coefficient and the heat capacity of materials. The method comprises the measurements of heat flux across the sample and the momentary temperature difference between both surfaces of the sample perpendicular to the direction of heat flux during continuous change of the temperature of one of sample surfaces. The values of thermal conduction coefficient, heat capacity and thermal diffusivity are determined on the basis of an equation which defines their dependence on measured heat flux across the sample, temperature difference between the sample surfaces and the rate of the change of the temperature of one sample surface. The apparatus for measuring thermal conductivity and heat capacity contains a heater equipped with a temperature sensor of a thickness less than 1 mm, placed between two samples, one of them being the sample of material tested of a thickness less than 10 mm.

Abstract: A heat transfer sensing apparatus for opening window drapes and blinds determines whether the net heat flux is positive or negative. The apparatus includes first and second temperature sensing devices which are mounted adjacent a window. Both of the devices are exposed to the convective heat transfer conditions within the room, and the first temperature sensing device can be heated or cooled by radiant energy through the window. A shield shields the second temperature sensing device from direct radiant heat transfer to the window. A signal generator device connected to the temperature sensing devices generates a signal depending upon the difference in temperature of the temperature sensing devices, and the drapes are opened or closed according.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a method and apparatus used to determine the heat flux through a portion of a surface of a heat exchanger tube, using heat flux sensor means that is installed on the inner wall of the heat exchanger tube and send a signal to a connected heat flux meter.

Abstract: In the preferred and illustrated embodiment, multiple fixtures are set forth which function as support structures for thermal fluxmeters. A fluxmeter wafer or pad having top and lower faces and forming an output signal by means of thermopiles connected to both faces is used. It is supported by first and second alternate forms of fixtures. A force is applied to the fluxmeter wafer which is approximately normalized in both fixtures. This establishes a stabilized contact force against a surface to measure heat loss through the surface. This avoids variations in surface contact.

Abstract: With an air conditioning system a plurality of building areas, for which individual energy accounts have to be rendered, are supplied by a common fresh air supply and cooling installation. The volume flow rates are controlled by one volume flow rate regulator each, the setpoint of which is adjustable through a servomotor. An output signal representing the setpoint of the volume flow rate regulator is generated and is applied to a meter. This provides with sufficient accuracy the distribution of the volume flow rates between the various building areas as a base for the accounting and billing of energy expenses.

Abstract: A pair of metallic thin films are attached to opposite surfaces of a heat resistive thin film, and the heat flux through the heat resistive thin film is determined by measuring the temperature gradient therein while using the metallic thin films as resistance thermometer elements.

Abstract: The build up of ash in a pulverized coal-fired boiler and other similar ash producing combustion operations is achieved by comparing the heat flux simultaneously detected by a first flux detector which is maintained free of deposits and a second flux detector on which deposits are permitted to form. The net values from the heat flux comparison is proportional to the heat flux which is not reaching the boiler walls as a result of the ash deposits.

Abstract: A method for the determination of the heat transfer coefficient on a heat transferring surface, including the steps of arranging a layer for measuring the surface temperature and heat flux on the heat transferring surface so that the layer can change the original temperature and heat flux to a negligible extent only, providing for the slight and properly slow changeability of the surface heat flux density within a cycle time which is by several orders of magnitude longer than the time constants of the heat flux measuring layer and of the heat transferring boundary layer, by using a supplementary heating element and performing a practically unlimited number of measuring cycles, using the steps of deflecting the surface heat flux density and temperature relative to the condition in which no measurement takes place. The time-functions of the changes of the surface temperature .DELTA.T and of the surface heat flux density .DELTA.

Abstract: Heat flux sensors respectively painted black and white and mounted to a passive solar energy window intercept solar radiation and change the temperature of part of the window. The sensors, and differentially connected thermocouples attached to them, couple data to an electronic computer by which the solar radiation, reradiation, and conduction/convection thermal loss through the undisturbed balance of the window can be deduced. The computer outputs the net energy transfer NET to a recorder, a two-state indicator, and a window insulation control unit. The circuitry of the control unit responds to an ordinary thermostat and the NET from the computer to produce a condition signal, senses the position of the insulation, and repositions the insulation when necessary in response to the condition signal.

Abstract: A device and method are disclosed for measuring heat flux, as is a method for forming a device for such use. Thermopile junctions are formed on a belt-like support so that the heat flux from an article, such as a pipe or process equipment, is sensed while the support is positioned against a surface of the article, and a voltage indicative of the sensed heat flux is generated and coupled to an outlet connector adapted for connection to a voltage readout device. The belt-like support is relatively narrow, flexible, and has one side of a polymer with high infrared emissivity and the other side of a metal foil with low infrared emissivity.

Abstract: This invention relates to an instrumented unit for measuring temperatures and heat flux in evaporative walls of steam generators composed of a series of parallel tubes comprising a temperature measurement device formed from a plurality of sensors extending fluid-tight from a support member and inserted non-forcibly into complementary curved seats of constant radius provided in the cross-section of one of the tubes, the support member being fixed in straddling relationship and comprising, for the sensors, seats which are fluid-tight against the tube.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for determining the bulk thermal conductivity of a particular material includes the steps of embedding a thermistor in the material for which the bulk thermal conductivity is to be measured, applying a small current from a constant current source to the thermistor, mathematically determining the temperature of the material, applying a larger current to the thermistor until a steady state thermal condition is obtained, calculating the thermistor resistance, and finally calculating the thermal conductivity of the material according to the formula ##STR1## where I is the large current, R is the thermistor resistance when heated by the larger current, r.sub.1 is the radius of the thermistor glass bead, T.sub.1 is the surface temperature of the glass envelope of the thermistor and T.sub.2 is the homogenous temperature of material whose bulk thermal conductivity is to be measured.