With Signal, Indicator, Or Inspection Means Patents (Class 417/63)
  • Patent number: 8475136
    Abstract: A compressor includes at least one current sensor and processing circuitry in communication with the at least one current sensor. The processing circuitry declares a locked rotor condition when current drawn by the compressor is at least forty percent of peak locked rotor current.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 11, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 2, 2013
    Assignee: Emerson Climate Technologies, Inc.
    Inventor: Nagaraj Jayanth
  • Publication number: 20130160525
    Abstract: Apparatus and methods are described for subsea pipeline servicing, including line-pack testing, physical integrity testing, recovery of damaged sections of pipelines, and product removal from subsea structures. In one embodiment of the invention, a subsea pipeline service skid is provided including at least one sample collection bladder affixed to the skid and in fluid communication with a skid mounted pump dimensioned to pull a sample from the subsea pipeline. In another embodiment, a product removal bladder is provided for removal of the hydrocarbons from a subsea structure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 21, 2013
    Publication date: June 27, 2013
    Applicant: VALKYRIE COMMISSIONING SERVICES
    Inventor: Alan J. Sweeney
  • Publication number: 20130156607
    Abstract: A compressor diagnostic device is provided and includes at least one of a temperature sensor and a current sensor. The current sensor measures a first current flow through a motor of a refrigerant compressor. The temperature sensor is disposed within and sensing a temperature of a measurement region of an electrical conductor that is configured to close and open to allow and prevent current flow to the motor, respectively. The compressor diagnostic device also includes a controller in communication with the at least one of the current sensor and the temperature sensor. The controller is operable to control the electrical conductor based on a comparison of a second current flow through the motor and a maximum current.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 19, 2013
    Publication date: June 20, 2013
    Applicant: EMERSON CLIMATE TECHNOLOGIES, INC.
    Inventor: EMERSON CLIMATE TECHNOLOGIES, INC.
  • Publication number: 20130142674
    Abstract: A wear sensor system, compressors using the wear sensor system and methods of detecting wear on a bearing. The wear sensor system includes a stationary housing mounted circuit comprising a first inductor electrically connected to a voltage source and a rotating shaft-mounted circuit comprising a second inductor electrically connected to a capacitor. When there is no metal-to-metal contact between the shaft of the compressor and the housing into which the shaft is mounted, the housing-mounted circuit inductively charges the shaft-mounted capacitor and reduces a current level when the shaft mounted capacitor is charged. Likewise, when there is metal-to-metal contact between the shaft and the housing (which is indicative of bearing wear), the shaft-mounted circuit is grounded; this causes the housing-mounted circuit to increase the current level. This increased current level may be output to a suitable device for display or other indicia of bearing wear.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 5, 2011
    Publication date: June 6, 2013
    Applicant: GM GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS LLC
    Inventor: Joseph Mussro
  • Publication number: 20130126404
    Abstract: The present invention relates to an apparatus having at least one hose roller pump, wherein the hose roller pump has at least one pump bed and at least one hose or hose part inserted or insertable into the pump bed, and having at least one pressure detection means which is arranged downstream of the hose roller pump and by means of which the time extent of the pressure of a fluid conveyed by means of the hose roller pump can be determined, and having at least one evaluation means by means of which the occlusion of the hose or hose part inserted or insertable into the pump bed can be monitored with reference to the time difference and/or to the angular difference between at least one maximum and at least one minimum of the determined time extent of the pressure and/or with reference to a local minimum of the determined time extent of the pressure. The invention furthermore in particular relates to a method therefor.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 1, 2011
    Publication date: May 23, 2013
    Applicant: Fresenius Medical Care Deutschland GmbH
    Inventors: Soren Gronau, Ralf Mueller
  • Publication number: 20130115109
    Abstract: A compressor protection method and system capable of continuously establishing compressor discharge temperature set points based on actual in-service conditions and detecting damaged compressor valves for a given cylinder at each stage of compression. The method and system utilize sensors configured to monitor process property parameters (e.g. temperature and pressure) at the inlet section and outlet section of a compressor stage. The sensors generate monitored signals corresponding to the process property parameters. The method and system utilize a controller configured to receive and process these monitored signals. The controller executes a control logic that uses the monitored signals to either estimate or calculate compressor valve pressure losses for determining internal cylinder pressures, which are used to calculate compressor discharge temperature set points.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 1, 2012
    Publication date: May 9, 2013
    Inventor: William G. Hall
  • Publication number: 20130098642
    Abstract: A system for automatically setting up a truck-mounted pump driven by an engine for pumping operation, comprising a transmission control having a visual indicator and coupled to a transmission of the truck, a pump control having a visual indicator and coupled to the pump, a prime control having a visual indicator and coupled to a prime pump, a master system control switch operable to receive operator input, and a main controller in data communication with the transmission control, pump control, prime control, and the master system control switch, the main controller receiving an input from the master system control switch to initiate pump setup operation, and automatically transmitting alert signals to the visual indicators of the transmission control, pump control, and prime control to provide visual guidance to the operator in the proper sequence of steps to set up the pump for pumping operation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 25, 2011
    Publication date: April 25, 2013
    Applicant: JNT Link, LLC
    Inventors: John E. McLoughlin, Neocles G. Athanasiades, Kiam Meng Toh
  • Publication number: 20130092704
    Abstract: System and method for dispensing product to a washing machine. A chemical dispensing system includes a system controller, machine interface, and pump controller that communicate through serial data buses. The system controller provides a user interface, retrieves washing machine status information from the machine interface, and issues product dispensing commands to the pump controller. The pump controller monitors pump status and dispenses product in response to commands from the system controller. The pump controller: (1) determines pump activation periods based on calibration data stored in a pump controller memory; (2) tracks pump usage and adjusts the activation period to compensate for pump wear as the pump ages; (3) disables the pump if conditions exists that preclude operating the pump; (4) monitors product levels, and (5) reports pump status to the system controller. Integral channels are included in the pump housing to provide stress relief to a squeeze tube.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 14, 2011
    Publication date: April 18, 2013
    Applicant: DELAWARE CAPITAL FORMATION, INC.
    Inventors: Terry Tincher, Sean Lafferty, Jason McDaniel, Bryan Andersen
  • Patent number: 8419364
    Abstract: The fan has an arrangement for monitoring the ageing of at least one of its bearing, the arrangement including a reference ambient temperature sensor and a processing circuit for comparing the temperature difference between the temperature measured by the temperature sensor or by each temperature sensor fitted directly on the corresponding bearing and the temperature measured by the reference temperature sensor with a first predetermined value.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 28, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 16, 2013
    Assignee: Technofan
    Inventor: Laurent Bouchard
  • Patent number: 8414273
    Abstract: The pulse pump is driven by an electric motor and gear reduction driving an eccentric rotor, which, in turn, oscillates a mechanism actuating a diaphragm to transfer fluid through one-way check valves. The pump may be used in a number of different applications, but is particularly useful in applying biodegradation material to consume grease and other biodegradable matter typically found in drainage systems of food processing facilities, converting such matter into carbon dioxide and water. The device includes a system for placing the mechanism in a neutral position when the pump is deactivated, to avoid causing the diaphragm to take a set toward either extreme of travel when parked for an extended time. One embodiment incorporates a multiple piece actuator assembly having a diaphragm sandwiched between components. Another embodiment uses a single piece actuator having a circumferential groove, with the diaphragm having a toxoid configuration and attaching within the groove.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 18, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 9, 2013
    Inventor: Hansford R. Williams
  • Publication number: 20130071261
    Abstract: The present invention provides a method of detecting water heater safety, wherein the water heater includes a blower and a combustor. The method includes starting the blower and detecting blower speed after a certain amount of time; comparing the blower speed with a first speed range, and then supplying gas to the combustor when the speed of the blower is within the first speed range, or providing an alarm when the blower speed is beyond the first speed range; detecting the speed of the blower again after the combustor heats water for a time; comparing blower speed with a second first speed range, and then supplying gas to the combustor when the blower speed is within the second speed range, or stopping gas when the blower speed is beyond the second speed range.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 16, 2011
    Publication date: March 21, 2013
    Applicant: GRAND MATE CO., LTD.
    Inventors: CHUNG-CHIN HUANG, Chin-Ying Huang, Hsin-Ming Huang, Hsing-Hsiung Huang, Kuan-Chou Lin, Yen-Jen Yen
  • Publication number: 20130071260
    Abstract: Methods and systems are provided for a compressor including a crankcase. A condition of the compressor may be diagnosed based on a valve leak condition of the compressor based on piston motion within the crankcase. Once a diagnosis is made, appropriate remedial action can be taken to minimize severity.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 15, 2011
    Publication date: March 21, 2013
    Inventors: Bret Dwayne Worden, Milan Karunaratne
  • Publication number: 20130064683
    Abstract: A pump chamber is connected to an outlet-side buffer chamber via an outlet channel, and pumps a liquid from the outlet-side buffer chamber. A pressure vibration generated within the pump chamber when the volume of the pump chamber is decreased includes various kinds of information relating to the operating states of the liquid feed pump, such as mixing of bubbles, pumping pressure, dissolved gas amount, and liquid feed amount. Thus, it is possible to detect the pressure vibration, thereby simply and easily detecting the various kinds of information relating to the operating states of the liquid feed pump.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 7, 2012
    Publication date: March 14, 2013
    Applicant: SEIKO EPSON CORPORATION
    Inventors: Atsushi OSHIMA, Takahiro MATSUZAKI
  • Patent number: 8393873
    Abstract: A compressor system is disclosed, comprising a first pump driven by a D/C motor, a second pump driven by an A/C motor, and a switch which allows a user to manually selectively engage of one of the D/C motor or A/C motor, including a gauge having a user settable shut-off mechanism which interrupts power to at least one of D/C or A/C motors. Also disclosed is a gauge configured to display system pressure independent of the user settable shut-off mechanism. A gauge having a rotatable bezel with a needle stop comprising a first needle rotatably coupled to a gauge shaft, and a second needle fixable coupled to the gauge shaft, and a spring disposed between the first and second needles, the spring configured to bias the first needle into the second needle so changes in pressure causes rotation of both is also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 24, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 12, 2013
    Assignee: Black & Decker Inc.
    Inventors: Sean D. Hill, Lumin Li
  • Publication number: 20130039781
    Abstract: A load compressor includes an air inlet and an outlet, and a surge control valve positioned on the outlet. The surge control valve serves to selectively pass air to a downstream use, or to be dumped to atmosphere. A control for the compressor and the surge control valve is also included. The control is provided with a variable indicative of the operation of the load compressor, the variable being indicative of a movement to transient operation of the compressor. The control is provided with a low surge control limit for steady state operation. The control is also provided with a higher surge control limit, and switches to use of the higher surge control limit if the variable being monitored is seen to change beyond a particular threshold. The low and higher surge control limits are utilized to control the opening of the surge control valve. An aircraft air supply system and a method are also disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 8, 2011
    Publication date: February 14, 2013
    Inventors: Victor Pascu, Nipulkumar G. Shah
  • Patent number: 8366402
    Abstract: A reciprocating pump system is utilized. The system facilitates the prediction of failure modes due to degradation of pump components. A sensor system is used to monitor parameters indicative of abnormal events or wear occurring in specific components, such as pump valves. The indications of wear can be used to predict valve failure or other component failure within the reciprocating pump.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 20, 2005
    Date of Patent: February 5, 2013
    Assignee: Schlumberger Technology Corporation
    Inventors: Nathan St. Michel, Toshimichi Wago, Joe Hubenschmidt, Jean-Louis Pessin
  • Patent number: 8366416
    Abstract: A pumping device including a housing whose front face is at least partly formed by a block of transparent material, this block containing a number of machine-drilled holes including at least one blind hole forming a work chamber, at least one hole forming an admission and/or exhaust channel leading into the blind hole, two through channels whose orifices on the front face of the block are fitted with hydraulic hose connection means, two solenoid valves, a plunger sliding leaktightly in a bearing fitted to the orifice of the blind hole, this plunger defining with the blind hole a volume that varies as a function of the axial position of the plunger, and a module connected to the base of the plunger for moving the plunger translationally. The pumping device can be used for pipetting, dilution, rinsing and/or dispensing of samples, regardless of the envisaged volume ranges.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 4, 2007
    Date of Patent: February 5, 2013
    Assignee: Pulssar Technologies
    Inventor: Khaled Abousaleh
  • Patent number: 8365594
    Abstract: The invention provides an oil level or condition sensor featuring a housing and a baffle or plate arrangement arranged in the housing, where the baffle or plate arrangement forms a capacitor when the housing is filled with oil, the baffle or plate arrangement being responsive to a signal, for providing an oil level or condition sensor signal containing information about the level or condition of the oil in the housing. The baffle or plate arrangement may include one or more plates or a single or multiple star shaped baffles. The one or more plates or multiple star shaped baffles are spaced apart to form the capacitor. The level or condition of the oil within the baffle or plate arrangement changes the inductance. The single or multiple star shaped baffles each have a small hole in the center which provides a visual indication of the oil level. The housing has a transparent window. The inductance change can be measured and used to send alarms or warnings.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 27, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 5, 2013
    Assignee: ITT Manufacturing Enterprises, Inc.
    Inventors: Eugene P. Sabini, Oakley Henyan, Kenneth Napolitano
  • Patent number: 8356984
    Abstract: A hand air pump includes a connecting member having a barrel and an outlet port and a mouth, a receptacle having a cylinder engaged onto the barrel and having a slidable piston, the receptacle includes a channel for engaging with a cover plate which includes a longitudinal hole communicative with the mouth of the connecting member, and a gauge device includes a notch for receiving the receptacle and includes one or more latching members for retaining the gauge device to the receptacle and includes a connector engaged with the hole of the cover plate for receiving the pressurized air from the cylinder and for measuring an air pressure within the cylinder.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 30, 2010
    Date of Patent: January 22, 2013
    Assignee: Beto Engineering & Marketing Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Lo Pin Wang
  • Publication number: 20130008246
    Abstract: A method for estimating a fluid charge of a hydraulic accumulator includes determining a first accumulator pressure at a first time with a pressure sensor, the first time during accumulator charging; determining a second accumulator pressure at a second time with the pressure sensor, the second time during accumulator charging; determining a first fan speed at the first time; determining a second fan speed at the second time; and estimating the fluid charge of the hydraulic accumulator as a function of the first accumulator pressure, the second accumulator pressure, the first fan speed, and the second fan speed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 8, 2011
    Publication date: January 10, 2013
    Applicant: Caterpillar Inc.
    Inventors: Bryan E. Nelson, Jeremy T. Peterson, Jeffrey L. Kuehn
  • Patent number: 8348628
    Abstract: A system and method enable monitoring of a mechanical condition of a reciprocating compressor. The compressor includes a compressor frame, a pressure chamber, and a pressure head. A plurality of tie bolts are secured between the compressor frame and the pressure chamber head. A sensor assembly is secured to one of the plurality of tie bolts. The sensor assembly includes an elongation member positioned to extend in concert with extension of one of the tie bolts. A sensor measures extension of the elongation member to thereby monitor cylinder pressure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 15, 2006
    Date of Patent: January 8, 2013
    Assignee: General Electric Company
    Inventor: Roger A. Hala
  • Patent number: 8333568
    Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention are directed to method and devices for measuring the pressure of a pump chamber in which no internal opening or connections are needed. One embodiment of the present invention is directed to an apparatus for pumping fluid. The apparatus comprises at least one housing having a transducer surface. The transducer surface has a thickness exhibiting measurable deformation upon the chamber holding a fluid under pressure such that the transducer surface has a first position at which the chamber is at one pressure and a second position at which the chamber is at a second pressure. A strain sensor is affixed to the transducer surface producing; at least one signal upon the transducer surface assuming the first position and at least one signal upon the transducer surface assuming the second position to function as an integrated pressure transducer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 4, 2005
    Date of Patent: December 18, 2012
    Assignee: Waters Technologies Corporation
    Inventors: Joseph A. Luongo, John Angelosanto, Frank Rubino, Stanley P. Pensak, Jr., David J. First, Jean-Pierre Pugnaire, Richard R. Venable
  • Patent number: 8333569
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for removing vapor inside a liquid pump at the start up operation of the pump. In addition, a method and apparatus for removing liquid inside a compressor at the start up operation of the compressor. The pump and compressor each include a sensor attached to them that determines the physical state (i.e., liquid or vapor) of a material inside the pump or compressor. If vapor is detected inside the pump, a thermoelectric module connected to the pump is powered to condense the vapor into a liquid. Likewise, if liquid is detected inside the compressor a heater connected to the compressor is powered to evaporate the liquid into a vapor. After the state of the material inside the pump or compressor is changed, the pump or compressor is powered up for operation in a cooling system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 30, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 18, 2012
    Assignee: Intel Corporation
    Inventors: Ioan Sauciuc, Gregory M. Chrysler
  • Publication number: 20120315156
    Abstract: An integral regulator and gauge for a vacuum device consists of a circular regulator having the vacuum gauge inside thereof such that the regulator and gauge rotate about a common radial axis. An opening defined in a boss extending from the bottom of the regulator engages a sloped shoulder defined on the inside surface of a circular port in which the regulator is disposed, varying the size of an opening which allows air to bleed into the vacuum chamber to regulate the strength of the vacuum.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 13, 2011
    Publication date: December 13, 2012
    Applicant: DeVilbiss Healthcare LLC
    Inventor: Joel David Neatrour
  • Publication number: 20120315157
    Abstract: Reciprocating positive-displacement diaphragm pump (1) intended for liquids and for medical use, has a driving part (10) within which there are an electromagnetic actuator (11), incorporating at least one coil (12) and activating a piston (14) of a moving member (15) capable of cyclic linear motion. The pump comprises a pump body (20) within which there is a pre-loaded diaphragm (22) able to undergo a translational movement by elastic deformation from a normal rest position to an adjacent position through the transmission of the work from a piston (14). It incorporates a device (30) for detecting out-of-tolerance variations in the intensity of the supply current by measurements (33), a device (40) for continuously measuring the position of the moving member (15) and devices (30, 45) for processing and analyzing the measurements, which are able to generate at least one malfunctioning alarm signal (35) indicating the detection of at least one malfunction of the pump.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 20, 2010
    Publication date: December 13, 2012
    Inventor: Jean-Denis Rochat
  • Publication number: 20120315155
    Abstract: Systems and methods for providing a hydraulic lift device for use in producing a subterranean well.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 7, 2011
    Publication date: December 13, 2012
    Inventors: Tracy Rogers, Matt Montoya, Curtis Crosby
  • Patent number: 8328529
    Abstract: An electrical submersible pump assembly has a pump discharge head with an integrally formed pump discharge pressure port. The discharge head is mounted directly to the pump and couples the pump to production tubing. A static pressure port extends directly through the side wall of the discharge head. The pressure port includes a tubing connector for hydraulic tubing to run down to the gauge. Inside the discharge head, a flow limiter is located in the pressure port to stop the loss of fluid if there is a break in the tubing connector or hydraulic line. Alternatively, the discharge head may incorporate a venturi or other pressure drop structure to allow the fluid flow to be measured via a pressure drop across an orifice. The venturi may be configured as an insert to permit it to be replaced after it has become worn by abrasive flow.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 30, 2009
    Date of Patent: December 11, 2012
    Assignee: Baker Hughes Incorporated
    Inventors: Joseph Scott Thompson, Kevin R. Bierig, Robert H. McCoy, Gordon Lee Besser, Dick L. Knox, Joo Tim Ong, Suresha R. O'Bryan, Dustin B. Campbell
  • Publication number: 20120308406
    Abstract: The invention relates to a pump device having a pump (8) and an energy supply device (5, 18), wherein the pump has a conveying element (9, 11) which conveys a fluid by means of supplied energy, wherein the pump has a transport state and an operating state, and wherein at least one first element (9, 9a, 10, 10?, 11) of the pump has a different shape and/or size in the transport state than in the operating state. The operating safety of such a pump device is increased by a detection device (12, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 27, 28, 29) which detects whether at least the first element is in the operating state with respect to shape and/or size by means of a sensor.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 23, 2010
    Publication date: December 6, 2012
    Applicant: ECP ENTWICKLUNGSGESELLSCHAFT MBH
    Inventor: Joerg Schumacher
  • Patent number: 8322995
    Abstract: Methods and apparatus are provided for determining pump fillage, using data arrays of pump plunger position with respect to time and/or pump plunger load with respect to time. In this manner, well operators may be able to accurately monitor the pump fillage and control the pump accordingly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 8, 2010
    Date of Patent: December 4, 2012
    Assignee: Weatherford/Lamb, Inc.
    Inventors: Victoria M. Ehimeakhe, Ken George Booth
  • Publication number: 20120294734
    Abstract: This disclosure relates to medical temperature sensors and related systems and methods. In some aspects, a sensor assembly includes a non-invasive temperature sensor to detect a temperature of a medical fluid in a medical fluid line and an ambient temperature sensor to detect an ambient air temperature.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 1, 2012
    Publication date: November 22, 2012
    Applicant: Fresenius Medical Care Holding, Inc.
    Inventors: Roland Levin, Martin Joseph Crnkovich
  • Publication number: 20120294733
    Abstract: A compressor includes a casing, a compression mechanism, a drive shaft, a main frame, a motor, a flow path forming member, and a temperature measuring mechanism. The casing stores lubricating oil in its bottom portion. The main frame has the compression mechanism placed on it and supports the drive shaft in such a way that the drive shaft may freely rotate. The flow path forming member forms an oil flow path at a space adjacent an inner peripheral surface of the casing. The oil flow path carries a flow of lubricating oil, which lubricates sliding portions including the compression mechanism and the drive shaft. The temperature measuring mechanism is disposed outside the casing. The temperature measuring mechanism measures the temperature of a section of an outer peripheral surface of the casing adjacent the oil flow path.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 19, 2011
    Publication date: November 22, 2012
    Applicant: DAIKIN INDUSTRIES, LTD.
    Inventors: Masahiro Yamada, Yasuhiro Murakami, Nobuo Takahashi
  • Patent number: 8308444
    Abstract: A device and method configured to exchange pressures between fluid streams as a way to reuse the pressure energy of one of the fluids. The device includes a rotatable valve that fluidly cooperates with pressure exchange ducts so that a high pressure fluid stream flows into a high pressure exchange duct to displace a duct piston contained therein so that a fluid within this duct that is downstream of the piston is pressurized. At the same time, a low pressure fluid stream is introduced into a low pressure exchange duct to displace a duct piston contained therein so that a fluid within this duct that is downstream of its piston is pressurized. Rotation of the valve fluidly couples the pressurized fluid from the high pressure duct to the low pressure duct while the fluid from the low pressure duct becomes fluidly coupled to the high pressure duct.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 14, 2006
    Date of Patent: November 13, 2012
    Assignee: Flowserve Holdings, Inc.
    Inventor: William T. Andrews
  • Publication number: 20120257989
    Abstract: Submersible pump and motor performance testing. At least some of the illustrative embodiments are methods including: coupling a torque meter between an electric motor and a pump; and submersing the torque meter, electric motor, and pump in water. During periods of time when the torque meter, electric motor and pump are submerged in the water, the method comprises: operating the pump and the electric motor; measuring pump performance; and simultaneously measuring electric motor performance.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 11, 2011
    Publication date: October 11, 2012
    Applicant: GICON PUMP & EQUIPMENT, LTD.
    Inventors: R. MARK DURHAM, GARY D. GRANT, BETTY L. GRANT, RONALD K. HENSELY, M. BRYAN SHERROD
  • Publication number: 20120257990
    Abstract: System for control of a subsea located compressor fluidly connected to receive an inlet flow of gas through an inlet line, said flow may include liquid in an amount that may vary. The control system comprises a sensor means for measuring and determining the liquid droplet size distribution and liquid volume fraction, operatively arranged to the inlet line, and a control means operatively connected to the sensor means for operation of the control means based on input from the sensor means. Method for control of a subsea located compressor.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 20, 2010
    Publication date: October 11, 2012
    Inventors: Klas Gøran Erikson, Geir Inge Olsen, Kjell Olav Stinessen
  • Publication number: 20120251341
    Abstract: A fuel pump module includes a reservoir and a sender gauge. The reservoir is configured to contain fuel. A sender gauge includes a card mount and a resistance card. The card mount is fixed within the reservoir. The resistance card is fixed to the card mount and has a length oriented horizontally.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 31, 2011
    Publication date: October 4, 2012
    Applicants: DENSO CORPORATION, DENSO INTERNATIONAL AMERICA, INC.
    Inventor: Patrick Powell
  • Publication number: 20120244016
    Abstract: A milk pump device, comprising a passage duct, a first one-way valve, a second one-way valve and a membrane pump. The first and second one-way valves are included in the passage duct and oriented in the same direction relative to each other. The membrane pump is positioned between the first one-way valve and the second one-way valve. The membrane pump forms a first milk meter for generating a first milk measurement with respect to a number of complete pumping strokes of the membrane pump. The milk pump device further comprises a second milk meter for carrying out a second milk measurement with respect to a residual pumping stroke.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 27, 2012
    Publication date: September 27, 2012
    Applicant: LELY PATENT N.V.
    Inventors: Jacobus Izaak VAN DE WALLE, Michiel Adriaan VAN DORP, Gerard MOSTERT
  • Publication number: 20120224981
    Abstract: A method for producing at least one deformable membrane micropump including a first substrate and a second substrate assembled together, the first substrate including at least one cavity and the second substrate including at least one deformable membrane arranged facing the cavity. In the method: the cavity is produced in the first substrate; then the first and second substrates are assembled together; then the deformable membrane is produced in the second substrate.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 12, 2010
    Publication date: September 6, 2012
    Applicant: Comissariat a l'energie atomique et aux energies alternatives
    Inventors: Yves Fouillet, Francois Baleras, Martine Cochet, Sandrine Maubert
  • Patent number: 8241009
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a system for reusing water, comprising: —a mains system which comprises at least one conduit for transporting water and monitoring means adapted to measure changes in an electrical parameter of the conduit; —a storage tank for storing supplied water; —a water discharge for discharging stored water to a water-consuming unit; and—a control system adapted to control the supply of water to and the discharge of water from the storage tank subject to the changes in the parameter measured by the monitoring means. The present invention also relates to a mains system applied in such a system, and to a method for monitoring such a system or water mains system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 2, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 14, 2012
    Assignee: Ecoplay International B.V.
    Inventors: Johannes Donaes Jacobus Platteel, Sjoerd Pieter Wouda
  • Patent number: 8221093
    Abstract: A beverage system includes a pump that draws a set amount of a flavored concentrate into a mixing chamber for mixing with water to form a beverage. A locking ring attaches an adapter plate to a pump head. When the locking ring is in a locked position, a magnet of the locking ring is detected by a reed switch. If the locking ring rotates from the locked position, the reed switch does not detect the magnet, indicating that the locking ring, and therefore the pump head, is incorrectly or not completely installed. The controller then stops operation of the pump.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 12, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 17, 2012
    Assignee: Carrier Commerical Refrigeration, Inc.
    Inventors: James J. Minard, Mark E. Bush
  • Publication number: 20120177509
    Abstract: A fan system comprises a hub, a plurality of fan blades, a drive system, and a stationary tube. The hub is configured to rotate. The fan blades are mounted to the hub. The drive system comprises a rotatable hollow output shaft. The hollow output shaft is in communication with the hub, such that the drive system is operable to rotate the hub via the hollow output shaft. The stationary tube is inserted through the hollow output shaft. The stationary tube is configured to remain stationary as the hollow output shaft rotates. Wires and the like may be passed through the stationary tube, to reach an accessory mounted at the bottom of the stationary tube. The fan system may also include a detector, such as a heat detector, a smoke detector, or an accelerometer. The detector may power down the fan system in response to detecting certain conditions.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 15, 2012
    Publication date: July 12, 2012
    Applicant: DELTA T CORPORATION
    Inventors: Richard M. Aynsley, Richard W. Fizer, Richard A. Oleson, J. Carey Smith
  • Publication number: 20120171053
    Abstract: A hand air pump includes a connecting member having a barrel and an outlet port and a mouth, a receptacle having a cylinder engaged onto the barrel and having a slidable piston, the receptacle includes a channel for engaging with a cover plate which includes a longitudinal hole communicative with the mouth of the connecting member, and a gauge device includes a notch for receiving the receptacle and includes one or more latching members for retaining the gauge device to the receptacle and includes a connector engaged with the hole of the cover plate for receiving the pressurized air from the cylinder and for measuring an air pressure within the cylinder.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 30, 2010
    Publication date: July 5, 2012
    Inventor: Lo Pin Wang
  • Patent number: 8202058
    Abstract: A variable displacement axial piston machine. The variable displacement axial piston machine includes a cylinder block with at least one main cylinder and main piston, a swash plate, a plunger arrangement with a plunger and auxiliary cylinder, and a sensor. The swash plate is arranged to effect movement of the main piston in the main cylinder upon rotation of the swash plate relative to the cylinder arrangement. The plunger is arranged to tilt the swash plate relative to the cylinder arrangement and to control a stroke of the main cylinder in the main piston. To provide a simple and reliable measurement of displacement of the main piston in the main cylinder, the invention provides a sensor element which is fixed in the auxiliary cylinder and which is adapted to sense movement of the plunger therein.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 15, 2009
    Date of Patent: June 19, 2012
    Assignee: Sauer-Danfoss Inc.
    Inventors: Per Nielsen Lindholdt, Dietmar W. Weiss
  • Publication number: 20120141301
    Abstract: A signal processor is provided comprising one or more signal processor modules configured to: compare signaling containing information about historical data related to the performance of a pump; and provide corresponding signaling containing information about predicted maintenance needs of the pump on a real time basis based at least partly on the signaling compared containing information about the historical data related to the performance of the pump. The one or more signal processor modules may be configured to compare over time the hydraulic power generated by the pump and electric power consumed by a motor driving the pump, including tracking a ratio of hydraulic to electric power.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 11, 2010
    Publication date: June 7, 2012
    Applicant: CIDRA CORPORATE SERVICES INC.
    Inventors: Alex Van Der Spek, Robert J. Maron, Christian Victor O'Keefe, Paul J. Rothman
  • Publication number: 20120134850
    Abstract: A condition monitoring system for use with a reciprocating device. The condition monitoring system includes at least one pressure sensor that is configured to sense a pressure within the reciprocating device. At least one vibration sensor is configured to sense a vibration of the reciprocating device. A protection system is communicatively coupled to the pressure sensor and the vibration sensor. The protection system is configured to calculate a stiffness value of the reciprocating device based on the sensed pressure within the reciprocating device and the sensed vibration of the reciprocating device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 30, 2010
    Publication date: May 31, 2012
    Inventors: JOHN WESLEY GRANT, Brian Francis Howard
  • Patent number: 8182246
    Abstract: A high-pressure cam driven open discharge pump system is provided, wherein a high-pressure output at a relatively constant pressure is formed. The pump system includes a plurality of pressurizing subassemblies, each subassembly including a cam follower retained by a cam follower support guided by guide bearings to induce linear motion of a connected piston rod. The piston rod is slidably received within a removable high-pressure cylinder assembly which retains a high pressure cylinder.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 2, 2008
    Date of Patent: May 22, 2012
    Inventor: Steve Rohring
  • Patent number: 8182680
    Abstract: A method for controlling operation of a pump unit, where the pump unit includes a primary piston pump having a primary piston and a secondary piston pump having a secondary piston. The primary piston pump is fluidically connected with the secondary piston pump. The primary piston pump includes an inlet valve and an outlet valve, and the pump unit operates periodically according to a pump cycle. The method includes determining a fluid pressure of fluid dispensed by the pump unit, and performing a closed loop control of a position of the primary piston in dependence on the fluid pressure of the fluid dispensed by the pump unit during a first time interval of the pump cycle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 29, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 22, 2012
    Assignee: Agilent Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Philip Herzog, Konstantin Choikhet, Klaus Witt, Herbert Anderer
  • Publication number: 20120121441
    Abstract: A compressor system and a method of reducing noise in the compressor system. The compressor system includes an inlet port configured to receive gas, an outlet port configured to output compressed gas, and a compressor pump connected to the inlet port via a pneumatic line and to the outlet port. The compressor pump is configured to pressurize gas input through the inlet port and to output a compressed gas through the outlet port. The compressor pump generates noise during operation of the compressor pump. The compressor system further comprises a side- branch resonator having a housing forming a cavity and an elongated member connected to the housing. The elongated member is pneumatically connected to the pneumatic line between the inlet port and the compressor pump. The side-branch resonator is configured to substantially reduce noise generated by the compressor pump, to monitor an operation of the compressor pump, or both.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 16, 2010
    Publication date: May 17, 2012
    Applicant: KONINKLIJKE PHILIPS ELECTRONICS N.V.
    Inventor: Mark Steven Morrison
  • Patent number: 8157537
    Abstract: Apparatus, methods, and system for wireless remote monitoring and controlling a sucker rod pump for producing hydrocarbons, providing self-adjusting methods for operation over a wide-range of operating conditions according to algorithms that automatically compensate for offset and amplitude drift in sensor data, automatically identify pump off conditions, and automatically optimize hold down time.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 13, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 17, 2012
    Assignee: Petrolog Automation, Inc
    Inventor: Cesar Antonio Chavez Zapata
  • Patent number: 8154417
    Abstract: The present invention provides a new and unique method and apparatus for monitoring a device, such as a pump. The device may also include a fan, compressor, turbine or other rotating or reciprocating piece of machinery. In one embodiment, the method features sensing in a first device both a start-up vibration at a start-up time after the first device is affixed to a second device to be monitored and a subsequent vibration level at a subsequent time after the start-up time, and providing both a start-up vibration level signal containing information about the start-up vibration level of the second device, and a subsequent vibration level signal containing information about the subsequent vibration level of the second device; and monitoring in the first device the condition of operation of the second device based on a comparison of the start-up vibration level signal in relation to the subsequent vibration level signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 29, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 10, 2012
    Assignee: ITT Manufacturing Enterprises, Inc.
    Inventors: Kenneth Lee Hauenstein, Douglas Paddock, Mark Alexander Playford, Jermiah Dennis Quill, David A. Rice, Patrick J. Brusa
  • Publication number: 20120082569
    Abstract: A pressure gauge mounted to a pump or a back pressure regulator in an HPLC, SFC, or SFE system provides improved solvent exchange and improved measurement precision. A through hole having an inside diameter of 1.0 mm is made in a hexagonal member similar in shape to a pipe joint. A part of the hexagonal member is cut away to form a flat surface such that the distance to the outside periphery of the through hole is 0.5 mm to serve as a strain-measurement strain gauge attaching surface. One strain gauge is attached to the center of the strain-measurement strain gauge attaching surface, and two strain gauges are attached for temperature correction, one on the same surface as the strain-measurement strain gauge attaching surface and the other on an outside surface of the hexagonal member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 29, 2011
    Publication date: April 5, 2012
    Applicant: JASCO CORPORATION
    Inventors: Takeshi Kanomata, Hiroaki Yamura