Abstract: A method system and controller for controlling fluid flow in a rotational atherectomy device. A source of fluid is provided through a pump to the rotational atherectomy device, wherein the pump maintains the fluid flow at a minimal rate during a time period when a drive shaft of the device is not rotating. A first control is activated to increase a rate of the fluid flow and second control is activate to initiate a rotation of the drive shaft during another time period when the fluid flow is at the increased rate.

Abstract: A self-adjusting irrigation controller takes a pre-irrigation soil moisture reading prior to irrigation, chooses an amount of water to be dispensed corresponding to that reading from a table, and dispenses that amount of water. A predetermined length of time after the end of irrigation, the controller takes a post-irrigation soil moisture reading and compares the value of that reading to a predetermined target value. If the post-irrigation value differs substantially from the target value, the water amount corresponding to the pre-irrigation value in the table is adjusted to reduce that difference on the next scheduled irrigation cycle having that same pre-irrigation soil moisture reading. The target value is determined by watering the soil to field capacity, then computing the target value as a function of the reading of the sensor at field capacity. The controller thus converges toward an ideal runtime and follows changes in the environment.

Abstract: An extracorporeal blood processing system having a centrifugal rotor, a control system, a plurality of peristaltic pumps, and a removable tubing circuit wherein blood components can be processed. A pump-balancing process, implemented by the control system, causes selected pumps to fill and empty a reservoir in the tubing circuit. Ratios of displaced volume per pump revolution or other pumping action can be used by the control system to increase the effectiveness and efficiency of the donation process. The pump-balancing process may be performed during priming or set-up of the blood processing system or during an actual donation.

Abstract: A plating system comprises a plating solution and an apparatus for control of the plating solution, the apparatus including a Raman spectrometer for measurement of organic components, a visible light spectrometer for measurement of metallic components, and a pH probe. The plating solution can be sampled continuously or at intervals. Dosing of the plating solution adjusts for components consumed or lost in the plating process. The method of dosing is based on maintaining a desired composition of the plating solution.

Abstract: A process for simulating the motion of a first fluid, a second fluid and an interface between the first fluid and the second fluid. The fluid velocities and pressures of the first and second fluids are calculated at a first set of nodes on a first mesh at a first time step, representative of movement of the first and second fluids at the first time step. The level set, which is representative of a position of the interface, is calculated at the first time step, at a second set of nodes on a second mesh. The second mesh is odd times finer than the first mesh. The new fluid velocities and pressures of the first and second fluids are calculated at the first set of nodes at a second time step, representative of new movement of the first and second fluids at a second time step. The new level set is calculated at the second set of nodes, representative of a new position of the interface at the second time step.

Abstract: Disclosed are methods, systems, and computer program products for balancing net inventory using a dynamic expansion coefficient of liquid product relative to the temperature changes with density. The method can include receiving an API gravity report that includes a measurement of a specific gravity and a temperature of the product reported at a rack. Utilizing the API gravity report, the method can include maintaining correct densities of the liquid product by utilizing a plurality of expansion coefficients to dynamically convert a gross volume measurement to a net volume measurement for transactions of liquid product in a tank and at a dispenser in order to maintain a net perpetual book balance.

Abstract: A method of measurement, control, and regulation for a solar integrated Rankine cycle power generation system can include a central processing unit (CPU) which receives input from an operator and/or sensors regarding load forecast, weather forecast, system cost, and capacity or efficiency needs. The method can include activation, in various sequencing, of heat transfer fluid control valves, storage control valves, and at least one turbine control valve.

Abstract: A laundry machine having a steam generator is disclosed. A heater is controlled, such that steam generation coincides with a predetermined time period, whereby the steam supply time is enabled to be controlled with relative accuracy. If an error occurs when water is being supplied to the steam generator, then an error message is displayed such that a user may be informed of the error. If a predetermined time period has elapsed, then a pump is stopped to prevent an excessive amount of water from being supplied to the steam generator.

Abstract: What is disclosed is a plurality of prepaints which are used in any combination to produce base paints and/or colored paints of varying end-use application characteristics. Additionally, a mobile paint factory for producing a plurality of lines of architectural coatings from a plurality of prepaints en route to and/or at various locations is disclosed. The mobile paint factory may include a vehicle having a paint production system and a paint mixer located thereon. Furthermore, a method of producing a plurality of lines of user-selected architectural coatings from a plurality of prepaints en route to and/or at various locations is disclosed. The method may include: providing a mobile paint factory; prompting a user to select through the paint production system an interior or exterior application environment, a paint sheen, and a paint quality; automatically dispensing predetermined amounts of appropriate prepaints; and agitating the dispensed prepaints.

Abstract: A pneumatic automation system (1) is disclosed for mobile screens (2) comprising at least one of said mobile screens (2), means for compressing a control fluid, means for channelling and checking the control fluid, means for pneumatically actuating a movement of the mobile screen (2) equipped with at least one sliding cursor (4) controlled by said control fluid and supplied by said compressing means through said channelling and checking means, and means for connecting the cursor (4) with the mobile screen (2).

Abstract: An apparatus for determining an operation mode of a device, wherein the device is capable of adjusting a physical condition at a source position to correspondingly influence a physical condition at a destination position, the apparatus comprising a determining unit adapted for determining the operation mode by defining a time dependency of the physical condition at the source position so that a target time-dependency of the physical condition is obtained for the destination position, the target time-dependency representing a resultant variation of the physical condition over time.

Abstract: Disclosed are systems and methods for configuring portion control for a dispenser apparatus. A plurality of beverage ingredients may be associated with the dispenser apparatus, and a plurality of selectable beverages may be formed from the plurality of beverage ingredients. Input for one or more preferences associated with portion control may be received. Stored information associated with at least one of the plurality of selectable beverages may be accessed. At least one portion control for at least one of the plurality of selectable beverages may be determined based at least in part on at least a portion of the received input and at least a portion of the accessed information.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a method and arrangement of optimizing the level of anti freeze agent in a heat transfer fluid in a heat exchange system The method comprises determining (305) a wanted level of anti freeze agent at least partly based on the temperature of the media to which the heat exchange system will deliver heat, controlling (310) the current level of the anti freezing agent in the heat transfer fluid. Anti freezing agent is added 315:1 to the heat transfer fluid if the current level is a predetermined amount lower than the wanted Level, and removed 315:2 from the heat transfer fluid if the current level is a predetermined amount higher than the wanted level.

Abstract: A dispensing measuring system for dispensing a measure of fluid for use with a system to treat semiconductor workpieces is disclosed. The dispensing measuring system includes at least one feedline having a receiving tank having a volumetric capacity for receiving a measure of fluid. A sensor senses when the receiving tank has received the measure of fluid. A mix tank is attached to the at least one feedline for receiving the measure of fluid from the receiving tank to create a batch of fluid. A controller is electrically connected to the at least one feedline to control the flow of fluid through the at least one feedline. The controller is electrically connected to the mix tank. A connecting line is attached to the mix tank.

Abstract: A method and related non-linear level controller (NLLC) for controlling surge capacity in a processing system including at least one vessel receiving an inlet flow of a fluid including a liquid subject to variation and supplying an outlet flow to at least one downstream unit includes the step of computing a first parameter relating to a difference between a current inventory in the vessel and a prevailing inventory limit for the vessel and a second parameter relating to a difference between the current inventory and an inventory set point. An unforced time to reduce the first parameter by a first percentage (T*) is compared to a first time T1. The inlet flow or outlet flow is then controlled based on the first parameter if T*?T1 and based on the second parameter if T*>T1.

Abstract: In a refrigerating air conditioning system using refrigerant such as CO2 used in a supercritical area, a highly efficient refrigerating air conditioning system is provided by adjusting the amount of refrigerant in a radiator which contributes to the efficiency of the system stably and quickly. During heat utilizing operation, the superheat at the exit of an evaporator is controlled to a predetermined value by controlling the opening of an expansion valve provided on the upstream side of the evaporator, and an expansion valve is controlled so that the state of refrigerant in a connection pipe on the high-pressure side becomes a supercritical state. In this state, a flow rate control valve is controlled to change the density of the refrigerant stored in a refrigerant storage container and the amount of refrigerant existing in the radiator is adjusted.

Abstract: A system for managing liquid supply suitable for a process equipment with a liquid tank is disclosed. The system includes a host, a data-reading tool, a system controller and a tank-locking device. The host stores a built-in liquid database. The data-reading tool used for reading data related to the liquid tank is electrically connected to the host. The host receives the data related to the liquid tank from the data-reading tool, and the received data mapped with the liquid database. The system controller drives the tank-locking device according to the signal from the host to whether or not allow replacement of the liquid tank.

Abstract: A method of programming a microcomputer based controller system for a bathing installation. The microcomputer is configured to receive input command and sensor information from a plurality of input devices including a control panel and a bathing installation sensor, and acts on the input information operating according to a program running on the microcomputer which performs control functions for a plurality of bathing installation functions, including operating a water heater and a water pump of the bathing installation.

Abstract: An inventory management system automatic monitors and control of fill levels or pressure states. The inventory management system supports bidirectional communication between the individual field devices and a central system. The bidirectional communication takes place using a web client by way of a communications network (e.g., the Internet) so that broadband data exchange becomes possible. Administration of the measured data takes place centrally and automatically.

Abstract: Systems for controlling the in-feed and discharge rates of materials flowing into and out of a mixing process where one priority is to achieve a target mixture flow rate from the mixing process and another priority can be to achieve a target value for a mixture property. Actuators can be operated to control material in-feed rates, the mixture composition, and discharge rate, and can maintain a hold-up of the mixture in the mixing process. A total flow rate controller provides a control signal to a controller acting on the discharge rate and a controller acting on the in-feed rates. The mixture discharge flow rate can be automatically reduced from its desired target when the commanded rate of at least one of the materials exceeds its available supply rate as inferred from an inability to maintain the targeted value for the mixture property.

Abstract: Disclosed is a bathtub remote control system for automatically controlling the water level, water temperature and the water discharge from remote distance. The bathtub remote control system includes a bathtub driving portion, a bathtub control portion and a remote control portion. The bathtub driving portion is provided with the supply valve, the discharging valve, the water level sensor and the water temperature regulator. The bathtub control portion produces the bathtub control signals on the basis of the setting signals inputted from the key input portion. The remote control portion, which is connected to the bathtub control portion but independently from the bathtub control portion, can input the setting signals by using the wireless remote controller, the internet and the wire or wireless telephone from the remote distance and receive the detection signals.

Abstract: Systems, apparatus and methods are provided for real-time control of inventory and environmental impacting events. The invention implements statistical analysis of the inventory and environment data at a remote site, typically the site at which the inventory is located or where the environmental impacting event may occur. Once the statistical analysis determines that a significant inventory change has occurred or a significant environmental impacting event has occurred, the inventory data or environmental data is immediately communicated, in real-time, to a central location for monitoring and control, typically a regional or corporate office. The invention has specific relevance and embodiments directed at monitoring and controlling the inventory and environmental events at fuel service stations.

Abstract: A lock includes two independently operating locking mechanism, one locking mechanism operating electronically and one locking mechanism operating mechanically. The lock may include a device for receiving and decoding an electronic unlock signal and a memory source for storing multiple unique unlock signals. The electronic signal may be generated from a remote source or on the lock itself. The lock also may include a button that allows unique unlock signals to be added or deleted from the lock memory.

Abstract: A system and method for controlling an electrically controlled pressure relief valve may use a soft position control loop to control the position of the valve. A pressure relief valve may also include a modified orifice shape to improve stability, to uniformly distribute the effective bandwidth over the valve operating range, and to provide a tunable default mode.

Abstract: A pressure control system for controlling pressure of a fluid in a chamber includes a pressure sensor configured to measure the pressure of the fluid in the chamber, and a valve configured to control the pressure of the fluid in the chamber by regulating flow of the fluid from the chamber. The pressure control system further includes a controller. The controller is configured to estimate the volume of the chamber, and to generate a pump speed curve of the valve. The controller is further configured to monitor and modify the pump speed curve so as to maintain a slope of the pump speed curve to at least a minimum value, and to use the modified pump speed curve to adjust the position of the valve in response to pressure measurements by the pressure sensor, so as to maintain the pressure in the chamber at a desired pressure setpoint.

Abstract: A system and method for verifying that a particular fluid supply is connected to an infusion pump or pump channel. An upstream pressure sensor coupled to a fluid conduit associated with the fluid supply is used to provide pressure signals in response to pressure sensed in the conduit to a processor. In a connection verification mode, the processor is configured to receive the pressure signals and delay the flow control device of the infusion pump from moving fluid through the conduit until the processor detects a pressure change in the conduit indicated by the pressure signals to thereby verify that the particular fluid supply is connected to the infusion pump.

Abstract: Systems and methods are provided for estimating the height of a fluid contained in a mixing tank. A dynamic control device which operates as an external observer is used for controlling and monitoring the estimation. This estimate of the height is then compared to the measured fluid height in the mixing tank to obtain an estimation of the height error. The mixing tank has one or more input volumetric rates which are known along with the output volumetric rates. This height error is used to drive the estimation to the nominal height of the mixing tank through the use of a Proportional Integral PI type controller. By setting the PI gains, the noise and oscillations of the mixing tank can be removed from the height estimation while tracking the nominal value of the height. The methods and the systems can also be implemented for estimating the volume or quantity of fluid contained in a mixing tank.

Abstract: A system and method for controlling an electrically controlled pressure relief valve may use a soft position control loop to control the position of the valve. A pressure relief valve may also include a modified orifice shape to improve stability, to uniformly distribute the effective bandwidth over the valve operating range, and to provide a tunable default mode.

Abstract: In household appliances with a safety hose, the stop valve and the control valve are hydraulically connected in series. It is thus impossible, or very difficult, for the user to detect when one of the valves is operating erroneously and not closing completely. The functioning of the control valve and of the stop valve is checked each time the household appliance is used. For this purpose, the valves and are alternately opened and closed in a selected phase during operation, or are opened and closed one after the other. The change over time in the measured values is recorded and evaluated in a suitable manner at a pressure sensor and/or at a throughflow meter. On account of the multiple use of the measuring sensors that are present, the cost of implementing the method is restricted to expanding the control system software.

Abstract: A method for operating a converter for the energy conversion of fuel from at least one main fuel supply, and from at least one auxiliary fuel supply for operating the converter directly and/or by operating an auxiliary unit, comprises: detecting the amount of fuel in the main fuel supply; detecting the amount of fuel in the auxiliary fuel supply, at least with respect to a predetermined minimum amount; in response to the minimum amount being reached, generating a signal that blocks at least one of a) filling of the main fuel supply, and b) startup of the converter via a control unit; and deactivating the blocking in response to the auxiliary fuel supply being replenished.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to a rest room control system including one or more sensors configured to monitor or control a function associated with the rest room. The system also includes a controller operably coupled to the one or more sensors, and configured to receive data therefrom associated with the function, and communicate a status condition associated with the function in response thereto.

Abstract: A method for controlling fluid flow in a rotational atherectomy device. A source of fluid is provided through a pump to the rotational atherectomy device, wherein the pump maintains the fluid flow at a minimal rate during a time period when a drive shaft of the device is not rotating. A first control is activated to increase a rate of the fluid flow and second control is activated to initiate a rotation of the drive shaft during another time period when the fluid flow is at the increased rate.

Abstract: A method for controlling liquid delivery in a processing chamber. The method includes generating an analog input (AI) signal proportional to a process variable and calculating an analog output (AO) signal based on a setpoint and a deadband. The setpoint is a target value of the process variable and the deadband is an allowable tolerance around the setpoint that determines when the control logic is activated to control the process variable. The method further includes transmitting the AO signal to a control device and adjusting the process variable proportional to the value of the AO signal.

Abstract: A method of managing oil fields include installing oil field sensors, coupling them to a local CPU having memory, programming the CPU for data collection and data analysis, and coupling local oil field CPUs to a web server. Human experts are granted access to oil field data in real time via the Internet. The local CPUs provide different levels of data to the web server. The web server provides the option to view raw data, partially analyzed data, or fully analyzed data. The local CPUs are programmed with parameters for analyzing the data and automatically determining the presence of anomalies. Upon detecting the occurrence of an anomaly, the local CPUs are programmed to notify one or more human experts by email, pager, telephone, etc. If no human expert responds to the notification within a programmed period of time, the local CPU automatically takes a programmed corrective action.

Abstract: A system and method for verifying that a particular fluid supply is connected to an infusion pump or pump channel. An upstream pressure sensor coupled to a fluid conduit associated with the fluid supply is used to provide pressure signals in response to pressure sensed in the conduit to a processor. In a connection verification mode, the processor is configured to receive the pressure signals and delay the flow control device of the infusion pump from moving fluid through the conduit until the processor detects a pressure change in the conduit indicated by the pressure signals to thereby verify that the particular fluid supply is connected to the infusion pump.

Abstract: The present invention provides for a software-based computing environment that uses data communication systems or networks, including the Internet and World Wide Web technologies, to implement a dosage calculator, which assists the clinician in managing patients receiving intrathecal therapy. The invention provides for a communications environment for clinicians, pharmacists, drug pump manufactures, and patients to assess the information supplied by an implantable drug pump, and to integrate data from other data sources in order to provide optimization of the life of the drug pump and the therapeutic substance formulations for the patient.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for operating a production system that includes a plurality of production facilities is provided. The method includes receiving, in real-time, for each facility, cost data for a first resource used by each respective facility to produce an output, receiving, in real-time, for each facility, cost data for a second resource used by each respective facility to produce the output, determining, in real-time; an automated incremental cost curve for the system based on a level of production of each facility and the received resource cost data, and determining a production output target for each production facility to achieve an optimum production system output based on the real-time incremental cost curves. The system includes at least one production facility that includes a software code segment programmed to determine, in real-time, an incremental cost of a first resource based on a level of production of each respective facility.

Abstract: A computer controlled pumping and measuring system is used to dispense chemicals into a concrete mix. The redundant use of positive displacement pumps and flow meters ensure that any problems with the chemical dispensing are immediately caught. The computerized control system may be operable to control exact batch configurations of concrete and aggregate in conjunction with the chemical dispensing, as well as provide precise mixture control and recording of the various components.

Abstract: A method for resupplying reagents inventoried on-board an automatic clinical analyzer by: comparing an averaged assay demand pattern on the analyzer for assays over a sequence of specifically defined time periods with the reagents inventoried on-board the analyzer to determine which reagents will be exhausted before the next following the sequence of specifically defined time periods, and, resupplying reagents appropriately.

Abstract: A method and apparatus of diagnosing leakage in a fluid power system including a fluid supply line operatively connected to a plurality of valves which are connected to a plurality of actuators. Flow signals generated by a flow sensor disposed in the supply line are processed to obtain fluid consumption over time values and signals used to change the state of the plurality of valves are processes to determine a plurality of episodes. Each of the plurality of episodes corresponds to a pressurization of a particular branch of a particular actuator. The flow signals and the signals used to change the state of the valves are combined to calculate a change in air consumption value for each valve change of state. The change in air consumption values for each episode are compared to a predetermined reference value to determine any deviation corresponding to a particular one of the plurality of episode.

Abstract: A control loop of a control valve is operated using outlet pressure from a pneumatic amplifier as the control parameter. The control loop may be operated continuously in pressure control mode, or may be switched from another mode, such as travel control mode, to pressure control mode in response to certain operating conditions such as operation in the cutoff range, operation with the throttling element engaging a travel stop, or as a backup in the event of primary control parameter sensor failure. Operating the control loop in pressure control mode further allows diagnostics to be performed on the control loop components, even when the system is operating in cutoff range or has engaged a travel stop. The diagnostics may be performed using pressure and displacement sensors normally provided with a positioner. A processor may be programmed to receive data from the sensors and generate fault signals according to a logic sub-routine.

Abstract: A control device and a drug delivery system containing such a control device are disclosed for delivery to a patient of a drug or a placebo (or ineffective dose of the drug) according to a partial reinforcement schedule, whereby the placebo (or ineffective dose of the drug) is delivered in whole or in part during one or more delivery events. Methods of modulating the drug/placebo delivery to a patient are also provided, whereby the delivery event is initiated either according to a patient-initiated signaling event (i.e., a self-medication mode) or an automated signaling event (i.e., automated mode).

Abstract: One embodiment of the present invention can include a flow control device comprising an inlet, an outlet, a pressure loss element between the inlet and outlet, a pressure sensor located upstream from the constriction configured to measure a first pressure of a fluid flowing through the flow control device, a pressure sensor located downstream from the constriction, configured to measure a second pressure of the fluid flowing through the flow control device; and a controller coupled to the first pressure sensor and the second pressure sensor to generate a valve drive signal. The controller can generate a valve control signal based on a differential between the first pressure and the second pressure during a first mode of operation. The controller can also generate a valve control signal based on a measured pressure at a particular pressure sensor during a second mode of operation. The mode of operation can automatically switch.

Abstract: The present invention comprises a novel level switch which may be employed to detect liquid levels within a process vessel. The level switch of the present invention is self validating so that manual testing is not required in order to ensure proper operation and switch calibration. The switch of the present invention may be easily introduced into existing process vessel designs as a replacement for prior art level detection switches with minimal or no retrofitting effort being required. The self validating level switch of the present invention may be connected to a Safety Instrumented System (SIS) such that process control including process shutdowns to avoid overfilling and low-fluid conditions may be accomplished.

Abstract: Decision information systems, methods, and computer programs for better informing decisions to use multiple drugs in drug delivery devices, including implantable devices, for drug administration. Executable computer programs and logic embodying methods of the invention can calculate consistent multiple drug mixture amounts and drug delivery flow rates. One program accepts user input indicating a desired first drug dose rate, an initial first drug concentration, a desired second drug dose rate, an initial second drug concentration, and the reservoir size of the drug delivery device. The program method calculates a first drug amount and a second drug amount to combine in a mixture as well as a first drug true concentration in the mixture. The drugs can be mixed consistent with the physician's instructions using the program output. The first drug true concentration can be entered into a programmer device as the only drug concentration entered.

Abstract: System, method, and computer program product for synchronizing a system for aspirating and/or dispensing of liquid samples that includes a microejection device and a pump, which are connected with one another via tubing, wherein a computer is capable of being loaded with an activatable computer program product for synchronizing operation of the microejection device and the pump. Embodiments are characterized in that the loaded and activated computer program product, directs the computer to control and synchronize the system: (a) to actively define a sample volume and dispense the defined sample volume using the microejection device, which is filled with sample liquid; and (b) to track a part of the pump that conveys liquid around a value, dependent on the sample volume, which is defined and is actively dispensed only by the microejection device, to prevent excessive pressure differences in the microejection device, tubing, and pump.

Abstract: The present invention is a system for handling liquid and a method for the same. The system has a container capable of holding a liquid. An electronic storage device is coupled with the container for electronically storing information relating to the liquid stored in the container. The system also has an antenna, for storing information to and reading information from the electronic storage device. Finally, the system has a microprocessor-based controller, coupled with the antenna, for controlling processing of the liquid based on information read from the electronic storage device by the antenna.

Abstract: An outfit for the construction of several complex industrial installations for the treatment of industrial fluids includes several assemblies of several functional modules, each adapted to perform an elementary operation. Each functional module includes at least one input and at least one output, as well as a local guide unit of the functional module provided with a communication interface. All the functional modules have the same assembly to carry out the same elementary operation and are standard. The functional modules are adapted to be associated functionally with each other in installations. The outfit moreover includes, for each industrial installation, a single central guide unit, adapted to guide the functional modules of the associated industrial installation.

Abstract: A mass flow controller includes a network interface port and interface software that provide direct access to the mass flow controller. The mass flow controller also includes diagnostic software that permits a technician to execute diagnostics through the network interface port.

Abstract: In improvements to the Fluid Energy Pulse Test System, apparatus and methods regulate high-pressure, high-fluid-flow-rate energy pulses to generate temperature-controlled transient, ramp, constant-steady-state, and periodic-steady-state fluid-pressure and fluid-flow-rate test data and sound data for evaluating fluid control devices. Transient, ramp, and constant-steady-state performance curves describe dynamic operating characteristics of tested devices. Transient and constant-steady-state pressures and flow rates are precisely defined and compared. Constant fluid conductance is represented by transverse lines on performance graphs. Constant- and periodic-steady-state pressures and flow rates are achieved in less than two seconds. Temperature sensitivity of fluid control devices is determined. Fluid-pressure and fluid-flow-rate data correlated with sound data create audio-visual representations. Three-dimensional amplitude-frequency-time sound signatures are displayed graphically.