Measuring Temperature Patents (Class 422/82.12)
  • Patent number: 8216519
    Abstract: A hotplate chemical trace detector comprising a heatable conducting plate with a heater element having a predetermined temperature-power characteristic. A balancing circuit comprises an adjustable resistor for tuning the heater element to a predefined resistor value. A processor is provided for adjusting the adjustable resistor so as to provide a stabilized temperature in said heatable conducting plate and a detection circuit is provided for detecting a change of resistance in the heatable conducting plate in accordance with the presence of a chemical trace reacting in the presence of the conducting plate. According to the invention a test circuit is provided for measuring a dissipated power in the heater element and for calculating a real temperature from the dissipated power in the heater element based on the predetermined temperature-power characteristic.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 24, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 10, 2012
    Assignee: Consultatie Implementatie Technisch Beheer B.V.
    Inventor: Albert Bos
  • Publication number: 20120171713
    Abstract: A semiconductor die includes a chemical sensor, a digital to analog converter, and microcontroller formed therein. The chemical sensor detects the presence of a chemical and outputs an analog signal to the digital to analog converter. The analog to digital converter converts the analog signal to a digital signal. The analog to digital converter outputs the digital signal to the microcontroller. Microcontroller calculates a value of the concentration of the selected chemical.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 31, 2011
    Publication date: July 5, 2012
    Applicant: STMICROELECTRONICS PTE LTD.
    Inventors: Suman Cherian, Olivier Le Neel
  • Publication number: 20120111374
    Abstract: Apparatus and methods for cleaning ion implanters and/or components thereof are described, utilizing cleaning agents reacted with residue deposits to effect removal thereof. An endpoint detection apparatus and method are also disclosed, which may be integrated in the cleaning apparatus and methods to provide highly efficient utilization of the cleaning agent and avoidance of deleterious effects that otherwise can occur when cleaning agents are continued to be exposed to an implanter or components thereof after cleaning has been completed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 8, 2011
    Publication date: May 10, 2012
    Applicant: ADVANCED TECHNOLOGY MATERIALS, INC.
    Inventors: Joseph R. Despres, James V. McManus, Richard D. Chism, Edward E. Jones, Joseph D. Sweeney, Steven G. Sergi, Ying Tang, Michael J. Wodjenski, Richard S. Ray, Barry Lewis Chambers
  • Publication number: 20120107180
    Abstract: An automatic chemical analyzer in which a reaction solution is stirred by air ejected from an air ejection hole placed above a reaction container. The reaction region can be washed and cleaned sufficiently without causing damage, such as exfoliation of a coating reagent. A reaction container disk 161 is provided with a pore 240 and a pressure detector 241 connected with the pore. Before and after the stirring operation, the ejection hole (nozzle) 170 ejecting air is moved and the output value of the pressure detector is compared with a previously measured normal value. With a discharge pipe 1101 and a suction pipe 1102 inserted to the opening of the reaction container 1140 to be close to both ends of the opening and the side wall of the container, the reaction region 1150 at the bottom of the container is washed by continuous discharge and suction of cleaning fluid.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 22, 2010
    Publication date: May 3, 2012
    Applicant: HITACHI HIGH-TECHNOLOGIES CORPORATION
    Inventors: Hironobu Yamakawa, Yoichi Aruga, Takenori Okusa, Kenichi Takahashi, Taisaku Seino
  • Patent number: 8148162
    Abstract: A biosensor system determines analyte concentration from an output signal generated by an oxidation/reduction reaction of the analyte. The biosensor system adjusts a correlation for determining analyte concentrations from output signals at one temperature to determining analyte concentrations from output signals at other temperatures. The temperature-adjusted correlation between analyte concentrations and output signals at a reference temperature may be used to determine analyte concentrations from output signals at a sample temperature.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 20, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 3, 2012
    Assignee: Bayer HealthCare LLC
    Inventors: Huan-Ping Wu, Christine D. Nelson
  • Patent number: 8142072
    Abstract: The invention provides an indicator excellent in constitutional simplicity and capable of indicating both the temperature of an article to be indicated and elapsed time at that temperature, as well as an indicator of simple constitution capable of indicating the level of deformation of the article by external force. Disclosed is an external stimulus indicator including a polymer composition composed of a polymer and a dye, wherein the polymer composition has the dye fixed in a specific molecular dispersion state in the polymer, and when kept at a temperature not lower than a specific temperature for at least a predetermined time or deformed to at least a certain level by external force, changes its color to a hue different from the initial hue thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 12, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 27, 2012
    Assignee: Toyo Boseki Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventor: Maki Kinami
  • Publication number: 20120070903
    Abstract: A method for measuring the real hot-spot temperature in an electric apparatus containing an oil, such as an electric power transformer. The electric apparatus is operated under predetermined and modifiable operating conditions. This method comprises the use of one or several chemical compounds or tracers present and soluble in the oil. Each tracer may transform, at a given temperature, in order to form a residue, such as a soluble gas. From the presence of the residue in the oil, the operator will be able to determine under which predetermined operating condition the hot-spot has been reached and to deduce the hot-spot for a given condition. Among different used compounds, there are diazoic compounds, carbonyl metals, colorants, pigments, liquid crystals and albumins. The method also allows to check the quality of the apparatus on the market and to estimate its life span.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 5, 2009
    Publication date: March 22, 2012
    Applicant: HYDRO-QUEBEC
    Inventors: Pierre Couture, Michel Duval
  • Patent number: 8128872
    Abstract: Freeze indicators can include an indicator dispersion, a liquid medium, indicator particles dispersed in the liquid medium and a particulate inorganic nucleating agent to inhibit supercooling of the liquid medium. The inorganic nucleating agent can have an ionic surface coating which can help provide a sharp end point. Optionally, freeze indicators can include indicator particles comprising an organic material and a softener to soften the indicator particles and provide the freeze indication with an enhanced visual appearance. Another option is to provide a temperature-sensitive stabilizer to inhibit coagulation of the indicator dispersion at temperatures above the liquid medium frozen state melting point while permitting coagulation of the indicator dispersion at the liquid medium frozen state melting point.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 28, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 6, 2012
    Assignee: Temptime Corporation
    Inventors: Carl Lentz, Dawn E. Smith, Dene H. Taylor
  • Patent number: 8114677
    Abstract: A chemical sensor for assessing a chemical of interest. In typical embodiments the chemical sensor includes a first thermocouple and second thermocouple. A reactive component is typically disposed proximal to the second thermal couple, and is selected to react with the chemical of interest and generate a temperature variation that may be detected by a comparison of a temperature sensed by the second thermocouple compared with a concurrent temperature detected by the first thermocouple. Further disclosed is a method for assessing a chemical of interest and a method for identifying a reaction temperature for a chemical of interest in a system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 1, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 14, 2012
    Assignee: Babcock & Wilcox Technical Services Y-12, LLC.
    Inventors: Jonathan S. Morrell, Edward B. Ripley
  • Patent number: 8105841
    Abstract: An assembly determines an analyte concentration in a sample of body fluid. The assembly includes a test sensor having a fluid-receiving area for receiving a sample of body fluid, where the fluid-receiving area contains a reagent that produces a measurable reaction with an analyte in the sample. The assembly also includes a meter having a port or opening configured to receive the test sensor; a measurement system configured to determine a measurement of the reaction between the reagent and the analyte; and a temperature-measuring system configured to determine a measurement of the test-sensor temperature when the test sensor is received into the opening. The meter determines a concentration of the analyte in the sample according to the measurement of the reaction and the measurement of the test-sensor temperature.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 15, 2008
    Date of Patent: January 31, 2012
    Assignee: Bayer Healthcare LLC
    Inventors: Jeffrey D. Blais, Steve Sun, Bern Harrison, Narasinha C. Parasnis, Serban F. Peteu, Tony Nguyen, Paul Ripley, Xin Wang, Igor Gofman
  • Patent number: 8080427
    Abstract: A particle sensor is provided having a first temperature sensing device having a sensing surface exposed to particles contained within a fluid. The sensing surface is at least partially coated with a catalyst for promoting an exothermic reaction with at least a portion of the particles. The particle sensor also has a second temperature sensing device positioned at a location substantially thermally isolated from thermal energy generated by the exothermic reaction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 31, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 20, 2011
    Assignee: Caterpillar Inc.
    Inventor: Victoriano Ruiz
  • Patent number: 8029731
    Abstract: A device for measuring/determining a physical quantity of a medium. The device comprises a sensor part and an electronic part, whereby at least the electronic part is arranged inside a housing and at least one fuel cell is provided which at least partially covers the energy demand of the device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 25, 2001
    Date of Patent: October 4, 2011
    Assignee: Endress + Hauser GmbH + Co. KG
    Inventors: Michael Krause, Florian Stengele
  • Patent number: 8021039
    Abstract: An apparatus is disclosed designed to monitor the thermal status of a quality control material. The apparatus has the ability, with visual and/or audible means, to alert the user when the quality control material has become thermally equal to the local, ambient environment by way of natural thermal entropy. The apparatus alerts the user by visual and/or audible indicators when the quality control material, after removal from the monitor, should be returned to cool storage after a pre-determined period to maintain its designed criteria, integrity and/or purpose.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 7, 2007
    Date of Patent: September 20, 2011
    Inventor: Frank Amato
  • Patent number: 8017080
    Abstract: A liquid state detecting apparatus including a detecting element having a heating resistor which generates heat when energized and being disposed in a liquid container for containing a liquid, the apparatus calculating a first difference between a first corresponding value corresponding to a first resistance of the heating resistor acquired after energization of the heating resistor is started and a second corresponding value corresponding to a second resistance of the heating resistor acquired after the heating resistor is energized for a predetermined detection time and obtaining a first concentration of a particular component included in the liquid, the first concentration being associated with the first difference, the apparatus including: an abnormality determination unit, a determination concentration acquiring unit, a concentration difference calculation unit, and a static state determination unit, all as defined herein.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 9, 2006
    Date of Patent: September 13, 2011
    Assignee: NGK Spark Plug Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Takeo Sasanuma, Yoshikuni Sato
  • Publication number: 20110211994
    Abstract: The invention concerns a nanowire structural element suited for use in a microreactor system or microcatalyzer system. A template based process is used for the production of the nanowire structural element, wherein the nanowires are electrochemically depositioned in the nanopores. The irradiation is carried out at different angles, such that a nanowire network is formed. The hollow chamber-like structure in the nanowire network is established through the dissolving of the template foil and removal of the dissolved template material. The interconnecting of the nanowires provides stability to the nanowire structural element and an electrical connection between the nanowires is created thereby.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 12, 2009
    Publication date: September 1, 2011
    Inventors: Thomas Cornelius, Wolfgang Ensinger, Reinhard Neumann, Markus Rauber
  • Patent number: 8007733
    Abstract: An apparatus and methods are provided for heating and sensing the temperature of a chemical reaction chamber without direct physical contact between a heating device and the reaction chamber, or between a temperature sensor and the reaction chamber. A plurality of chemical reaction chambers can simultaneously or sequentially be heated independently and monitored separately.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 26, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 30, 2011
    Assignee: Applied Biosystems, LLC
    Inventors: John Shigeura, Janice G. Shigeura, legal representative
  • Patent number: 7964137
    Abstract: A control system of a surgery autoclave is described, which is capable of establishing a sterilization cycle which includes at least a first evacuation step of a sterilization chamber and of heating of a load and a final drying step. The autoclave includes a device capable of detecting a parameter proportional to the energy used up in a step of the cycle preceding the drying step and the control system establishes at least a reduction of the drying step upon determining that, the parameter of used up energy lies below a preset threshold.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 27, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 21, 2011
    Assignee: W & H Sterilization S.r.l.
    Inventors: Fabio Ghezzi, Daniele Ongaro, Marco Parolini, Christian Stempf, Walter Crotti
  • Publication number: 20110143449
    Abstract: A system to detect the presence of a catalyst includes an exhaust gas tube, a first temperature sensing device, a second temperature sensing device, a flow rate measurement device, and a processing device. The first temperature sensing device measures a first temperature of exhaust gas upstream of the exhaust gas tube. The second temperature sensing device measures a second temperature of the exhaust gas downstream of the exhaust gas tube. The processing device estimates an expected time delay between the measured inlet and outlet exhaust gas temperatures corresponding to a system with a catalyst present. The processing device may also determine the presence of a catalyst by comparing the measured second temperature to the measured first temperature and comparing the measured second temperature to an estimated delayed first temperature associated with the expected time delay.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 10, 2010
    Publication date: June 16, 2011
    Applicant: CUMMINS IP, INC.
    Inventors: Carlos Alcides Lana, Baohua Qi
  • Patent number: 7959863
    Abstract: A liquid state detecting sensor for detecting a state of a liquid including a liquid concentration detecting element, a holder member, and an enclosing member as defined herein, wherein the holder member has a configuration in which respective portions of a lower end surface facing the enclosed region are located higher than or at a same height as a lowest hole periphery at the rim of the element holding hole from which the detecting element protrudes, and at least one of circulation holes formed in the enclosing member is a bubble-discharging hole which has an upper end located higher than the lowest hole periphery and a lower end located lower than a surface peripheral edge of the lower end surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 7, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 14, 2011
    Assignee: NGK Spark Plug Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Takashi Yamamoto, Yoshikuni Sato, Takeo Sasanuma, Akihiro Yoshida
  • Patent number: 7947223
    Abstract: In general terms the biosensor apparatus according to the invention comprises a housing (5, 6), a pair of heat sinks (11, 12) and a pair of heat reflectors (13, 14) thermally floating relative to the heat sinks, and a pair of Peltier elements (16) attached to and in thermal contact with the heat sinks (11, 12), one element (16) on each heat sink (11, 12). The housing is made of an insulating material, and the heat sinks (11, 12) are made of a material with thermal properties large enough to absorb the heat flow with only a very slight, negligible disturbance in its temperature, to render their envelope surface having a high heat emissivity. The heat reflectors (13, 14) are made of a material having a very low emissivity and have a generally flat and thin disc shaped structure and acts primarily as radiation shields.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 2006
    Date of Patent: May 24, 2011
    Assignee: Senzime AB
    Inventor: Thomas Carlsson
  • Patent number: 7914735
    Abstract: A detection system includes a detection device and an anti-evaporation device. The detection device comprises a region configured to merge at least two small drops and to detect a potential transient signal generated by the merger of the drops. The an anti-evaporation is configured to enclose the region and limit evaporation from the region. A method for detecting a signal includes the following steps: depositing drops of potentially reactive chemical solutions on a detection device within a drop-merging region; placing an anti-evaporation device over the drop-merging region to form a seal around the drop-merging region; merging the drops of potentially reactive chemical solutions; and measuring a signal occurring within the merged solution drops.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 18, 2005
    Date of Patent: March 29, 2011
    Assignee: Palo Alto Research Center Incorporated
    Inventors: Francisco E. Torres, Michael Chabinyc, Scott Elrod, Eric Peeters, Gregory B. Anderson, Alan G. Bell, Richard H. Bruce
  • Patent number: 7906339
    Abstract: A system and method that uses electrical conductivity measurements to identify the impurities in a solution, as well as the concentrations of such impurities. The conductance versus temperature curve for any particular ion is unique to that ion and the conductance versus temperature curve for a solution is unique to the ions in the solution and their concentrations. Equations can be used to describe the conductivity versus temperature curve containing specific ions at set concentrations. To that end, the present invention measures the conductivity of a solution over some specified temperature range, calculates a conductivity-temperature curve from a library of ions to match the measured conductivity, and uses a mathematical process to vary the ions and their concentrations in the calculated curve to make it match the measured curve as closely as possible.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 16, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 15, 2011
    Inventor: Jacob Mettes
  • Patent number: 7875455
    Abstract: A method and system for evaluating status and response of a mineral-producing field (e.g., oil and/or gas) by monitoring selected chemical and physical properties in or adjacent to a wellsite headspace. Nanotechnology sensors and other sensors are provided for one or more underground (fluid) mineral-producing wellsites to determine presence/absence of each of two or more target molecules in the fluid, relative humidity, temperature and/or fluid pressure adjacent to the wellsite and flow direction and flow velocity for the fluid. A nanosensor measures an electrical parameter value and estimates a corresponding environmental parameter value, such as water content or hydrocarbon content. The system is small enough to be located down-hole in each mineral-producing horizon for the wellsite.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 12, 2006
    Date of Patent: January 25, 2011
    Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Administrator of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA)
    Inventors: Jing Li, Meyya Meyyappan
  • Publication number: 20110014719
    Abstract: The invention relates to a cartridge (100) and a corresponding sensor device for the detection of target components in a liquid sample. The cartridge (100) comprises a sample chamber(SC), at least two reservoirs(131, 132) that can be furnished with magnetic particles(MP, MP?), and at least two corresponding sensitive zones (121, 122) in which solved magnetic particles and/or target components can be detected. When a magnetic actuation field(B) of a given configuration is established in the sample chamber, the magnetic particles of different reservoirs migrate predominantly to different sensitive zones. Thus a mixing of magnetic particles can be avoided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 11, 2009
    Publication date: January 20, 2011
    Applicant: KONINKLIJKE PHILIPS ELECTRONICS N.V.
    Inventors: Mara Johanna Jacoba Sijbers, Petrus Johannes Wilhelmus Van Lankvelt, Femke Karina De Theije, Jeroen Hans Nieuwenhuis
  • Patent number: 7829024
    Abstract: A urea concentration identification device comprising a concentration identification sensor unit (2) and a support unit (4) attached at the bottom end thereof with this sensor unit and provided at the top end thereof with a mounting unit (4a) to a urea solution tank opening. The concentration identification sensor unit (2) has an indirectly-heated concentration detector and liquid temperature detector provided with metal fins (21c),(22c), respectively, for heat-exchanging with urea solution. The concentration identification sensor unit (2) is provided with a cover member (2d) that forms an opposite-ends-opened urea solution induction passage so as to surround the metal fins (21c),(22c), and an enclosure (2e) that forms communication holes (26),(27) in the top and bottom end plate thereof (2e1),(2e2).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 10, 2004
    Date of Patent: November 9, 2010
    Assignee: Mitsui Mining & Smelting Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Kenjiro Izutani, Takayuki Takahata
  • Patent number: 7781222
    Abstract: A biosensor system determines analyte concentration from an output signal generated by an oxidation/reduction reaction of the analyte. The biosensor system adjusts a correlation for determining analyte concentrations from output signals at one temperature to determining analyte concentrations from output signals at other temperatures. The temperature-adjusted correlation between analyte concentrations and output signals at a reference temperature may be used to determine analyte concentrations from output signals at a sample temperature.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 7, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 24, 2010
    Assignee: Bayer HealthCare LLC
    Inventors: Huan-Ping Wu, Christine D. Nelson
  • Patent number: 7759125
    Abstract: A photoelectrochemical assay apparatus and method for determining chemical oxygen demand (COD) of a water sample is described. The photoelectrochemical assay comprises: a) a measuring cell for holding a sample to be analysed b) a titanium dioxide nanoparticle photoelectric working electrode and a counter electrode disposed in said cell, c) a UV light source adapted to illuminate the photoelectric working electrode d) control means to control the illumination of the working electrode e) potential measuring means to measure the electrical potential at the working and counter electrodes f) analysis means to derive a measure of oxygen demand from the measurements made by the potential measuring means.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 11, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 20, 2010
    Assignee: Aqua Diagnostic Pty Ltd
    Inventor: Huijun Zhao
  • Patent number: 7727766
    Abstract: There is disclosed a method of testing oil extraction processes including the steps of: 1) placing a sample to be tested in a sample holder which has a configurable temperature profile; 2) placing the sample holder in a pressure vessel; 3) increasing the pressure in the pressure vessel to simulate an over burden pressure; 4) configuring the temperature profile of the sample holder to match a desired temperature profile; 5) applying an oil extraction process to the sample; 6) measuring one or more parameters of the oil extraction process; 7) measuring the temperature of the sample to which the process is being applied; 8) configuring the sample holder to match the measured temperature profile. A device to test oil extraction processes on samples is disclosed. The device has a temperature configurable sample holder having sufficient temperature control to provide a desired heat profile to the sample.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 19, 2009
    Date of Patent: June 1, 2010
    Assignee: N-Solv Corporation
    Inventors: John Nenniger, Steve Conzuorgood, Lowy Gunnewiek, Bob Reid, Emil Nenniger
  • Publication number: 20100112707
    Abstract: The invention relates to a biosensor solution in which the biosensor comprises at least one sol-gel response region pattern doped with a biological signature molecule and printed on the biosensor, and at least one micro-channel for transporting material to said at least one sol-gel response region pattern.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 4, 2007
    Publication date: May 6, 2010
    Inventors: Markku Känsäkoski, Liisa Kivimäki, Arto Maaninen, Marika Kurkinen, Kristiina Takkinen, Timo Pulli, Sanna Uusitalo, Sanna Aikio, Harri Siitari
  • Publication number: 20100098612
    Abstract: An exemplary method and associated architecture for reducing NOx and particulate matter emissions in an exhaust stream may include passing the exhaust stream through a catalytic oxidation reactor; passing the exhaust stream through a two-way selective reduction catalyst particulate filter located downstream of the catalytic oxidation reactor, wherein the two-way selective reduction catalyst particulate filter may include a wall flow filter substrate having internal walls coated with a first selective catalytic reduction catalyst; and passing the exhaust stream through a catalytic reduction reactor located downstream of the two-way selective reduction catalyst particulate filter, wherein the catalytic reduction reactor may include a second selective catalytic reduction catalyst.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 21, 2008
    Publication date: April 22, 2010
    Applicant: GM GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS, INC.
    Inventors: JONG H. LEE, DAVID B. BROWN, MICHAEL J. PARATORE, JR., YONGSHENG HE
  • Publication number: 20090317913
    Abstract: Sensors including a functional component, methods for making such sensors and methods for using sensors including a functional component for the detection of free radical forming compounds including peroxides and devices incorporating such sensors are provided herein.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 21, 2009
    Publication date: December 24, 2009
    Applicant: TRITON SYSTEMS, INC.
    Inventors: John Lock, Edward Geraghty, Lawino Kagumba, Norm Rice, Keith Higginson, Ken Mahmud, Arthur Gavrin
  • Publication number: 20090305425
    Abstract: Localized catalyst activity in an SCR unit for controlling emissions from a boiler, power plant, or any facility that generates NOx-containing flue gases is monitored by one or more modules that operate on-line without disrupting the normal operation of the facility. Each module is positioned over a designated lateral area of one of the catalyst beds in the SCR unit, and supplies ammonia, urea, or other suitable reductant to the catalyst in the designated area at a rate that produces an excess of the reductant over NOx on a molar basis through the designated area. Sampling probes upstream and downstream of the designated area draw samples of the gas stream for NOx analysis, and the catalyst activity is determined from the difference in NOx levels between the two probes.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 10, 2009
    Publication date: December 10, 2009
    Applicant: FOSSIL ENERGY RESEARCH CORP.
    Inventors: Lawrence J. Muzio, Randall A. Smith
  • Patent number: 7598086
    Abstract: A photoelectrochemical assay apparatus for determining chemical oxygen demand (COD) of a water sample which consists of a) a measuring cell for holding a sample to be analysed b) a titanium dioxide nanoparticle photoelectric working electrode and a counter electrode disposed in said cell, c) a UV light source adapted to illuminate the photoelectric working electrode d) control means to control the illumination of the working electrode e) potential measuring means to measure the electrical potential at the working and counter electrodes f) analysis means to derive a measure of oxygen demand from the measurements made by the potential measuring means.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 10, 2005
    Date of Patent: October 6, 2009
    Assignee: Aqua Diagnostic Pty Ltd
    Inventor: Huijun Zhao
  • Publication number: 20090240640
    Abstract: An apparatus for evaluating deposit formation characteristics of lubricant samples. The apparatus includes a reactor chamber having a closed first end and a second end, said closed first end of said reactor chamber forming a lubricant sump and said second end open to the atmosphere, an electric heater for heating a test coupon positioned thereon, said electric heater positioned within said reactor chamber, above said lubricant sump, an air supply tube, said air supply tube having a first end in fluid communication with a source of air and a second end, said second end positioned adjacent the test coupon, said air supply tube having a sample orifice located between said first end and said second end of said air supply tube and a lubricant supply tube, said lubricant supply tube having a first end positioned within said lubricant sump and in fluid communication with a source of lubricant and a second end, said second end positioned within said sample orifice of said air supply tube.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 17, 2009
    Publication date: September 24, 2009
    Inventors: David Alan Blain, Liepao Oscar Farng, Manuel A. Francisco, Glenn A. Murgacz, Peter A. Gordon, Eugenio Sanchez
  • Patent number: 7588727
    Abstract: A microfluidic chip on a transparent substrate includes microchannels, and an electric layer having a heater and a sensor layout on the microchannel nearby and aside for supplying heat source and sensing the temperature individually. The sensor is close to the microchannel for controlling the temperature accurately. Hence, the microfluidic chip can measure the temperature precisely without using an isolation layer and lower energy consumptions and reduce production costs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 14, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 15, 2009
    Assignee: Industrial Technology Research Institute
    Inventors: Shaw-Hwa Parng, Tung-Ming Yu
  • Publication number: 20090215190
    Abstract: The present invention generally relates to an apparatus and method for running a plurality of essentially simultaneous exothermic reactions, endothermic reactions, or a combination thereof in sealed reactors and obtaining physico-chemical data, preferably temperature data, and, optionally, time data, for the reactions, wherein reaction mixtures in the sealed reactors are adiabatically thermally insulated from one another so that temperature in one sealed reactor does not materially affect temperature in any other, including an adjacent, sealed reactor.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 20, 2009
    Publication date: August 27, 2009
    Inventors: Pamela J. Stirn, Charles A. Nielsen, Sylvie Desjardins, David R. Neithamer, Paul L. Morabito, Marc A. Springs
  • Publication number: 20090215180
    Abstract: A hotplate chemical trace detector comprising a heatable conducting plate with a heater element having a predetermined temperature-power characteristic. A balancing circuit comprises an adjustable resistor for tuning the heater element to a predefined resistor value. A processor is provided for adjusting the adjustable resistor so as to provide a stabilized temperature in said heatable conducting plate and a detection circuit is provided for detecting a change of resistance in the heatable conducting plate in accordance with the presence of a chemical trace reacting in the presence of the conducting plate. According to the invention a test circuit is provided for measuring a dissipated power in the heater element and for calculating a real temperature from the dissipated power in the heater element based on the predetermined temperature-power characteristic.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 24, 2006
    Publication date: August 27, 2009
    Applicant: Consultatie Implementatie Technisch Beheer B.V.
    Inventor: Albert Bos
  • Publication number: 20090196795
    Abstract: A microchip inspecting device with a temperature control function capable of performing accurate inspection. The inspection device comprises a microchip containing part in which microchips having a part to be detected and a part to be temperature-adjusted is contained, a detection section disposed corresponding to the part to be detected of the microchip contained in the microchip containing part, a temperature adjusting section disposed corresponding to the part to be temperature-adjusted of the microchip contained in the microchip containing part, and a control section for reducing the power of the temperature adjusting section when the part to be detected the microchip contained in the microchip containing part is detected by the detection section.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 28, 2007
    Publication date: August 6, 2009
    Applicant: KONICA MINOLTA MEDICAL & GRAPHIC, INC.
    Inventors: Tsuneo Sawazumi, Mitsuharu Kitamura
  • Publication number: 20090196794
    Abstract: A device and method is disclosed for sterilizing objects, commonly dental, medical, or veterinary instruments. By subjecting the objects to heat, the objects are sterilized quickly and more conveniently. The invention allows for user controls and treatment cycles to suit the needs of the sterilizing industry.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 1, 2008
    Publication date: August 6, 2009
    Inventors: William Smith, Nelson Slavik
  • Patent number: 7566569
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a method for measuring a surface temperature using is a fluorescent temperature sensor or optical thermometer. The sensor includes a solution of 1,3-bis(1-pyrenyl)propane within a 1-butyl-1-1-methyl pyrrolidinium bis(trifluoromethylsulfonyl)imide ionic liquid solvent. The 1,3-bis(1-pyrenyl)propane remains unassociated when in the ground state while in solution. When subjected to UV light, an excited state is produced that exists in equilibrium with an excimer. The position of the equilibrium between the two excited states is temperature dependent.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 23, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 28, 2009
    Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the United States Department of Energy
    Inventors: Gary A. Baker, Sheila N. Baker, T. Mark McCleskey
  • Publication number: 20090181463
    Abstract: The invention is directed to a device and a method for carrying out experiments of chemical, biochemical, biological and physical analysis, reaction and assay employing a reaction unit, in a preferred embodiment comprising: a capillarity reaction chamber, non-capillarity zone and bottom structure, which can use capillary action to quantitatively take up by itself and hold liquid in the reaction chamber. A multi-unit plate, which contains a number of reaction units on a plate frame, can be used for parallel experiments in conjunction with reservoir plate, waster pad, and liquid transfer guider.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 2, 2007
    Publication date: July 16, 2009
    Applicant: NCL NEW CONCEPT LAB GMBH
    Inventor: Guo Jun Chen
  • Patent number: 7521246
    Abstract: Provided is a cell lysis method including: preparing a cell sample to be lysed; heating the cell sample; and cooling the cell sample by causing an endothermic reaction near the cell sample. According to the method, cell lysis can be simply and conveniently performed without regard to location and without additional devices since a separate energy source is not required and the apparatus is portable. In particular, when cell lysis is performed in a biochip using a small amount of sample, a greater cell lysis effect can be obtained. In addition, cell lysis efficiency is significantly improved, compared to when only heating is performed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 19, 2006
    Date of Patent: April 21, 2009
    Assignee: Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Ji-yeon Yang, Yoon-kyoung Cho, Jin-tae Kim, Sook-young Kim, Young-sun Lee
  • Publication number: 20090098657
    Abstract: An assembly determines an analyte concentration in a sample of body fluid. The assembly includes a test sensor having a fluid-receiving area for receiving a sample of body fluid, where the fluid-receiving area contains a reagent that produces a measurable reaction with an analyte in the sample. The assembly also includes a meter having a port or opening configured to receive the test sensor; a measurement system configured to determine a measurement of the reaction between the reagent and the analyte; and a temperature-measuring system configured to determine a measurement of the test-sensor temperature when the test sensor is received into the opening. The meter determines a concentration of the analyte in the sample according to the measurement of the reaction and the measurement of the test-sensor temperature.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 15, 2008
    Publication date: April 16, 2009
    Inventors: Jeffrey D. Blais, Steve Sun, Bern Harrison, Narasinha C. Parasnis, Serban F. Peteu, Tony Nguyen, Paul Ripley, Xin Wang, Igor Gofman
  • Patent number: 7517692
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a technique for causing the temperature of a liquid component retained in an analytical tool (1) to be adjusted to a target temperature, wherein the analytical tool (1) is used for analyzing the sample. According to the present invention, the temperature of the liquid component (10) is raised by heating the liquid component utilizing light energy from a light source (23). The temperature raising of the liquid component may be performed by supplying the light energy directly to the liquid component. Alternatively, the temperature raising of the liquid component may be performed by thermal energy transferred from a temperature raise region adjacent to the liquid component to which the light energy supplied. Preferably, as the light source (23) for raising temperature, use may be made of a laser diode or a light-emitting diode.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 28, 2003
    Date of Patent: April 14, 2009
    Assignee: Arkray, Inc.
    Inventors: Takayuki Taguchi, Shigeru Kitamura
  • Publication number: 20090092519
    Abstract: The subject matter described herein relates to thermoresponsive switching materials that undergo a thermal transition over a narrow temperature range and to devices, such as actuators, indicators, and sensors, prepared from such compositions
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 1, 2008
    Publication date: April 9, 2009
    Applicant: Bay Materials, LLC
    Inventors: Ray F. Stewart, Debra L. Dunson
  • Patent number: 7514041
    Abstract: There is disclosed a method of testing oil extraction processes including the steps of: 1) placing a sample to be tested in a sample holder which has a configurable temperature profile; 2) placing the sample holder in a pressure vessel; 3) increasing the pressure in the pressure vessel to simulate an over burden pressure; 4) configuring the temperature profile of the sample holder to match a desired temperature profile; 5) applying an oil extraction process to the sample; 6) measuring one or more parameters of the oil extraction process; 7) measuring the temperature of the sample to which the process is being applied; and 8) configuring the sample holder to match the measured temperature profile. A device to test oil extraction processes on samples is also disclosed. The device has a temperature configurable sample holder having sufficient temperature control to provide a desired heat profile to the sample.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 28, 2004
    Date of Patent: April 7, 2009
    Assignee: N-SOLV Corporation
    Inventors: Steve Conquorgood, Lowy Gunnewiek, Bob Reid, Emil Nenniger, John Nenniger
  • Publication number: 20090087915
    Abstract: An analyzer for analyzing a specimen includes a central control unit that instructs systems of the analyzer of a process operation; and a primary control unit that time-divisionally outputs an instruction by the central control unit. The analyzer also includes a plurality of secondary control units; a communication connection unit; and a plurality of connecting units. The secondary control units are connected to the systems, respectively, and control an operation of the systems according to the instruction by the central control unit. Each of the secondary control units has positional information set in advance. The communication connection unit connects the primary control unit and the secondary control units. The connecting units are provided on a fixed arrangement position, have arrangement positional information indicating the arrangement position, and are connected to the secondary control units, respectively.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 1, 2008
    Publication date: April 2, 2009
    Applicant: OLYMPUS CORPORATION
    Inventor: Atsushi MATSUSHITA
  • Publication number: 20090087348
    Abstract: A sensor that includes an assembly having a flexible base material and a flexible material layer formed on the flexible base material. Both the flexible base material and the flexible material layer have shrinkable and/or stretchable properties. The flexible base material may include a shrinkable polymer (e.g. PVC/PET or “shrink wrap”), which may shrink up to 500%. The flexible base material may include a stretchable polymer (e.g. Mylar), which may be stretched by at least 1000%. These stretchable and shrinkable properties may be exhibited without substantial functional degradation of either the flexible base material and/or the flexible material layer.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 17, 2008
    Publication date: April 2, 2009
    Inventors: Richard Otto Claus, Jennifer Hoyt Lalli
  • Patent number: 7497993
    Abstract: The present invention is a fluorescent temperature sensor or optical thermometer. The sensor includes a solution of 1,3-bis(1-pyrenyl)propane within a 1-butyl-1-1-methylpyrrolidinium bis(trifluoromethylsulfonyl)imide ionic liquid solvent. The 1,3-bis(1-pyrenyl)propane remains unassociated when in the ground state while in solution. When subjected to UV light, an excited state is produced that exists in equilibrium with an excimer. The position of the equilibrium between the two excited states is temperature dependent.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 7, 2004
    Date of Patent: March 3, 2009
    Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the United States Department of Energy
    Inventors: Gary A. Baker, Sheila N. Baker, T. Mark McCleskey
  • Publication number: 20090041623
    Abstract: A fluid analyzing apparatus. The fluid analyzing apparatus sequentially or simultaneously detects and analyzes a multiplex fluid sample with suitable analyzing elements. Meanwhile, the fluid analyzing apparatus may be disassembled to a first unit, a second unit and a third unit, such that the analyzing elements therein are easily disposed and replaced. The fluid analyzing apparatus analyzes and detects the multiplex fluid sample by allowing the multiplex fluid sample to sequentially or simultaneously flow through a plurality of target chambers. The fluid analyzing apparatus sequentially or simultaneously transports the multiplex fluid sample to the target chambers, thereby enhancing the speed and analysis thereof.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 14, 2008
    Publication date: February 12, 2009
    Applicant: Industrial Technology Research Institute
    Inventors: Kun Feng LEE, Pei-Shin Jiang, Yuh-Jiuan Lin