Metering Dispenser Patents (Class 73/1.36)
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Patent number: 10504743Abstract: A method of etching a film of a workpiece, which includes: measuring a second flow rate of a first gas based on an increase rate of an internal pressure of a first chamber in a state in which a valve is closed and the first gas is supplied into the first chamber at a first flow rate adjusted by a flow rate controller, and calibrating the flow rate controller using the measured second flow rate; supplying a second gas into the first chamber; exhausting the first chamber; supplying a mixed gas of the first and second gases into the first chamber with the workpiece not mounted on a stage; forming a reaction product from the film by supplying the mixed gas into the first chamber with the workpiece mounted on the stage; and removing the reaction product by heating the workpiece with the workpiece accommodated in a second chamber.Type: GrantFiled: June 6, 2018Date of Patent: December 10, 2019Assignee: TOKYO ELECTRON LIMITEDInventors: Motoko Nakagomi, Kohichi Satoh
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Patent number: 9027381Abstract: A system for calibrating a fluid additive dispensing system of an appliance such as e.g., a washing machine is provided. For example, the system can calibrate for significant differences in the pressure of the water supply provided to the appliance during operation. Calibrations can also be implemented for significant differences in viscosity and/or density of the fluid additives.Type: GrantFiled: March 27, 2012Date of Patent: May 12, 2015Assignee: General Electric CompanyInventors: Alexander Boris Leibman, Jerrod Aaron Kappler, Lois Haeun Kwon
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Publication number: 20140260514Abstract: A fuel flow meter assembly for detecting fraud caused by tampering. The fuel flow meter assembly comprises a fuel flow meter comprising a shaft and a fiber optic displacement sensor operatively connected to the fuel flow meter shaft for generating information representative of an amount of fuel delivered through the fuel flow meter. The fuel flow meter assembly also comprises at least one transponder coupled with one of the fuel flow meter shaft and the displacement sensor. Further, the fuel flow meter assembly comprises at least one interrogator electronics coupled with the other of the fuel flow meter shaft and the displacement sensor. The at least one interrogator electronics is configured for remote electronic communication with the at least one transponder.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 17, 2014Publication date: September 18, 2014Applicant: Gilbarco Inc.Inventors: Rodger K. Williams, Edward A. Payne, John A. Lofgren, Mark B. Monson
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Patent number: 8756972Abstract: Volatile liquid vapors formed during the pour of the volatile liquid from a volumetric test measure apparatus are contained in a pour vapor-containment apparatus that enhances the rate of vapor formation inside the pour vapor-containment apparatus. The interface between a flow control component on the test measure apparatus and a pour inlet on the pour vapor-containment apparatus creates a positive pressure, vapor-saturated environment so that a sufficient positive vapor pressure is maintained between the interior of the test measure apparatus and the pour vapor-containment apparatus when the flow control component is inserted in the pour inlet and the test measure apparatus is rotated about vertical during the pour and drain processes so that the vapor-saturated air formed in the pour vapor-containment vessel transfers during the pour into the interior of the test measure apparatus to replace the liquid that is poured out of the test measure apparatus.Type: GrantFiled: December 7, 2010Date of Patent: June 24, 2014Assignee: Pemberton Fabricators, Inc.Inventors: Robert M. Murnane, Jr., Christopher Lewis Bradley, Henry Vernon Oppermann
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Patent number: 8747747Abstract: A reader for mechanical actuation of fluids within a test cartridge. The instrument interface including multiple independently-controlled plungers aligned to respective fluidic pouches on a test cartridge that is inserted into a testing apparatus embodying the instrument interface. The plungers include tips for applying mechanical force to the respective fluidic pouches.Type: GrantFiled: December 20, 2011Date of Patent: June 10, 2014Assignee: Abbott Point of Care Inc.Inventor: Seth Hunter
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Patent number: 8738187Abstract: A mass flow controller includes a thermal mass flow sensor in combination with a pressure sensor to provide a mass flow controller that is relatively insensitive to fluctuations in input pressure. The pressure sensor and thermal sensor respectively provide signals to an electronic controller indicating the measured inlet flow rate and the pressure within the dead volume. The electronic controller employs the measured pressure to compensate the measured inlet flow rate and to thereby produce a compensated measure of the outlet flow rate, which may be used to operate a mass flow controller control valve.Type: GrantFiled: March 21, 2012Date of Patent: May 27, 2014Assignee: MKS Instruments, Inc.Inventors: Ali Shajii, Nicholas Kottenstette, Jesse Ambrosina
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Patent number: 8671733Abstract: A method of calibrating a flow meter is provided. The method initiates with identifying a calibration fluid for a processing fluid. The calibration fluid has physical properties in common with the processing fluid with the exception of an outgassing characteristic. The method includes adding the calibration fluid to a vessel, where the vessel is in fluid communication with the flow meter and a withdrawal unit. The vessel is pressurized and the calibration fluid is withdrawn from the vessel through the flow meter and into the withdrawal unit, where the withdrawing performed by the withdrawal unit. A withdrawal volume per unit time measured by the flow meter is compared to a withdrawal volume per unit time controlled and set through the withdrawal unit.Type: GrantFiled: December 13, 2011Date of Patent: March 18, 2014Assignee: Intermolecular, Inc.Inventor: Jeffrey Chih-Hou Lowe
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Publication number: 20140034668Abstract: An apparatus, method and system providing for calibration and/or control of a liquid dispensing system is disclosed. The hand-held calibration auditing tool includes a flow meter (36-37) with inlets adapted for quick connection to one or more liquid inputs to a liquid dispensing system (10). A sensor (94-95) having a data output of liquid flow information for a liquid input to the dispensing system (10) is operably connected to a controller (12) to receive the liquid flow information for the liquid input. The controller (12) provides a dilution rate and other liquid flow information for a liquid product input to a dispenser.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 15, 2013Publication date: February 6, 2014Applicant: ECOLAB USA INC.Inventors: Henry L. Carbone, II, Richard J. Mehus, Kevin C. Tauer, Anatoly Skirda, Eugene Tokhtuev, William M. Christensen
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Patent number: 8616042Abstract: A method of calibrating a dispenser of the type having an actuator that is movable over a variable stroke distance includes dispensing a quantity of viscous material from the dispenser by moving the actuator over one of a plurality of stroke distances, weighing the quantity of viscous material, repeating the acts of dispensing and weighing for each of the plurality of stroke distances, and displaying the weight of each of the dispensed quantities to a user using a user interface device.Type: GrantFiled: March 25, 2011Date of Patent: December 31, 2013Assignee: Illinois Tool Works Inc.Inventor: Robert W. Tracy
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Patent number: 8590362Abstract: An apparatus, method and system providing for calibration and/or control of a liquid dispensing system is disclosed. The hand-held calibration auditing tool includes a flow meter (36-37) with inlets adapted for quick connection to one or more liquid inputs to a liquid dispensing system (10). A sensor (94-95) having a data output of liquid flow information for a liquid input to the dispensing system (10) is operably connected to a controller (12) to receive the liquid flow information for the liquid input. The controller (12) provides a dilution rate and other liquid flow information for a liquid product input to a dispenser.Type: GrantFiled: July 29, 2011Date of Patent: November 26, 2013Assignee: Ecolab USA Inc.Inventors: Henry L. Carbone, II, Richard J. Mehus, Kevin C. Tauer, Anatoly Skirda, Eugene Tokhtuev, William M. Christensen
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Patent number: 8573027Abstract: A novel enhanced flow metering device is adapted for disposing into a flow material reservoir a known volume of flow material whereby software used in conjunction with a pressure sensor may be calibrated. Additionally, by measuring the known amount of flow material returning to the flow material reservoir, checks are quickly made to ensure the pressure sensor is behaving as expected.Type: GrantFiled: February 26, 2010Date of Patent: November 5, 2013Assignee: Tandem Diabetes Care, Inc.Inventors: Michael J. Rosinko, Paul M. DiPerna
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Patent number: 8551573Abstract: A method for determining spraying parameters for controlling a paint-spraying apparatus using a spraying agent is disclosed. A known spray pattern is provided which has been determined by means of known spraying parameters for the use of a first spraying agent. A provisional spray pattern is calculated using the known spraying parameters and the characteristics of a second spraying agent. The known spraying parameters are altered in order to acquire changed spraying parameters which yield a further spray pattern. The changed spraying parameters are altered to the point where the further spray pattern is similar to the known spray pattern within a similarity criterion. The changed spraying parameters corresponding to the further spray pattern are intended as spraying parameters for the second spraying agent and are provided to the paint-spraying apparatus whenever the second spraying agent is used.Type: GrantFiled: June 19, 2007Date of Patent: October 8, 2013Assignee: ABB Patent GmbHInventors: Dietmar Eickmeyer, Gunter Boerner
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Patent number: 8444014Abstract: A system and method of detecting fuel theft at a fuel dispenser. The system has a fluid flow meter, a pulser operatively coupled to said fluid flow meter, and a control system in electrical communication with the pulser. The control system is configured to calculate a flow rate of fuel being dispensed from a gasoline dispenser during a single dispensing transaction. The flow rate is sampled at predetermined time intervals during the single dispensing transaction. The system then compares the sampled flow rates to a predetermined flow rate pattern indicative of potential fraud. A shutoff signal is then provided to the dispenser to stop fuel flow through the dispenser if the sampled flow rates are substantially similar to the predetermined pattern.Type: GrantFiled: October 16, 2009Date of Patent: May 21, 2013Assignee: Gilbarco Inc.Inventors: John Steven McSpadden, Benjamin T. Siler
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Patent number: 8434345Abstract: An apparatus for improving the procedure for quantifying the volume of liquid dispensed by a liquid-dispensing mechanism of an analytical instrument. The apparatus of this invention comprises (a) at least one weigh cup; (b) at least one standard mass; (c) at least one transducer assembly to convert a value of weight to an electrical response; and (d) at least one electronic circuit for converting the electrical response to a measurement of volume. This invention provides a method for calibrating readings of the volume of liquid dispensed by a liquid-dispensing mechanism of an analytical instruments so that absolute measurements of the volume of liquid dispensed can be obtained.Type: GrantFiled: August 11, 2006Date of Patent: May 7, 2013Assignee: Abbott LaboratoriesInventors: Kurt M. Klosterman, Ganesh Rajagopal, Larry R. Jibson, James L. Dempski, Paul A. Matuszewski, Jeffrey W. Stewart, Jeffrey R. Swanson, David M. Tipotsch, Randall E. Youngs, Noman A. Abunimeh
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Publication number: 20120240658Abstract: A method of calibrating a dispenser of the type having an actuator that is movable over a variable stroke distance includes dispensing a quantity of viscous material from the dispenser by moving the actuator over one of a plurality of stroke distances, weighing the quantity of viscous material, repeating the acts of dispensing and weighing for each of the plurality of stroke distances, and displaying the weight of each of the dispensed quantities to a user using a user interface device.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 25, 2011Publication date: September 27, 2012Applicant: Illinois Tool Works Inc.Inventor: Robert W. Tracy
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Patent number: 8251081Abstract: A device for metering fluids includes a block provided with a channel connecting a fluid inlet in fluid communication with a fluid outlet. The device also includes a filter assembly within the channel and a fluid meter within the channel at a position downstream from the filter assembly. The device further includes a check valve assembly within the channel at a position downstream from the fluid meter. In addition, the device includes a calibration valve assembly within a channel section of the channel between the fluid outlet and the fluid meter. The calibration valve assembly is operable to move between a first position allowing passage of fluid from the fluid meter towards the fluid outlet and a second position blocking the passage of fluid from the fluid meter towards the fluid outlet.Type: GrantFiled: February 19, 2007Date of Patent: August 28, 2012Assignee: Enraf B.VInventors: Dale Hicks, John H. Matthews
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Patent number: 8227258Abstract: A liquid delivery apparatus is provided for depositing liquid materials onto prescribed areas. The apparatus includes a sensing and delivery pin and a photo sensor. The apparatus is sized to deliver a droplet of liquid material to the surface of a target area without coming into contact with the target surface. The apparatus is also capable of drawing geometric features, such as lines and grids of liquid material. The photo sensor measures the intensity of light during a processing cycle. Measured reflected-light intensity can be compared in real-time to a reference curve which is based on test process cycles representing the light intensity expected when the process proceeds in the preferred fashion to produce a normal spot having an expected droplet size. The light intensity measurements can also be fitted with a mathematical function such as an asymmetric double sigmoidal curve.Type: GrantFiled: February 11, 2009Date of Patent: July 24, 2012Assignee: New Jersey Institute of TechnologyInventors: Timothy N. Chang, Qiong Shen
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Publication number: 20120137750Abstract: Volatile liquid vapors formed during the pour of the volatile liquid from a volumetric test measure apparatus are contained in a pour containment apparatus that enhances the rate of vapor formation inside the pour containment apparatus. The interface between a flow control component on the test measure apparatus and a pour inlet on the pour vapor-containment apparatus creates a positive pressure, vapor-saturated environment so that a sufficient positive vapor pressure is maintained between the interior of the test measure apparatus and the pour vapor-containment apparatus when the flow control component is inserted in the pour inlet and the test measure apparatus is rotated about vertical during the pour and drain processes so that the vapor-saturated air formed in the pour vapor-containment vessel transfers during the pour into the interior of the test measure apparatus to replace the liquid that is poured out of the test measure apparatus.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 7, 2010Publication date: June 7, 2012Inventors: Robert M. MURNANE, JR., Christopher Lewis BRADLEY, Henry Vernon OPPERMANN
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Patent number: 8150553Abstract: A mass flow controller includes a thermal mass flow sensor in combination with a pressure sensor to provide a mass flow controller that is relatively insensitive to fluctuations in input pressure. The pressure sensor and thermal sensor respectively provide signals to an electronic controller indicating the measured inlet flow rate and the pressure within the dead volume. The electronic controller employs the measured pressure to compensate the measured inlet flow rate and to thereby produce a compensated measure of the outlet flow rate, which may be used to operate a mass flow controller control valve.Type: GrantFiled: August 31, 2010Date of Patent: April 3, 2012Assignee: MKS Instruments, Inc.Inventors: Ali Shajii, Nicholas Kottenstette, Jesse Ambrosina
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Publication number: 20120047988Abstract: A method, apparatus and system provides for accurately measuring and calibrating liquid products dispensed from a dispenser. A liquid diluent enters an aspirator assembly (12). A liquid product is drawn from a product container through a flow meter (36) into the aspirator assembly (12), wherein liquid product and diluent are mixed to dispense at the outlet of the aspirator (14). The flow meter (36) monitors the amount of liquid product drawn into and dispensed from the aspirator (14).Type: ApplicationFiled: August 25, 2010Publication date: March 1, 2012Applicant: ECOLAB USA INCInventors: RICHARD JONDALL MEHUS, JOHN THOMAS PELKEY, RYAN JACOB URBAN, QUANG VAN DAO, SCOTT RUSSELL LIMBACK
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Patent number: 7974741Abstract: An electronics module for an industrial device is associated with an individual industrial device. Audit data for the industrial device is stored in a memory of the electronics module. The audit data includes information related to one or more steps that have been performed while making the individual industrial device. Operating instructions for the industrial device are stored in the memory of the electronics module. The operating instructions are operable to enable the electronics module to control and/or monitor one or more aspects of the flow control device operation.Type: GrantFiled: April 10, 2008Date of Patent: July 5, 2011Assignee: Dresser, Inc.Inventor: David B. Watson
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Patent number: 7950265Abstract: A system for preventing overflow of a toilet includes a sensor, a processor and an actuator. The sensor senses a parameter caused by fluid dynamics within the toilet during a flush cycle. The parameter may involve vibration, sound, pressure, fluid flow rate or other detectible characteristics of the toilet. The processor uses information regarding the parameter that is gathered by the sensor to evaluate the condition of the flush cycle to determine if an impeded flush condition exists. In the event of an impeded flush condition, the processor directs the actuator to close a valve, which may be the toilet flapper valve in some embodiments. Also disclosed are methods for preventing toilet overflow, detecting an impeded flush condition and calibrating the system.Type: GrantFiled: December 17, 2009Date of Patent: May 31, 2011Assignee: Limit, Inc.Inventors: Kevin Bowcutt, Ahmed Shishegar, Matthew Ibarra, Daniel L. Corbin, Dennis Repp, Robert M. Connell, Oscar Dufau, Gregory Blake, Sam Iravantchi
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Patent number: 7950267Abstract: Methods and systems for determining an LPG fuel output characteristic of an LPG injector. The output characteristic of the LPG can be determined by calculating a total mass of LPG injected into a canister of known volume by the injector during a plurality of open/closed cycles of the injector. The pressure differential and temperature in the canister can be used in the calculation of total LPG mass along with a gas constant of the LPG and the volume of the canister. The total LPG mass can then be used to determine the mass of LPG injected by the injector during each open/closed cycle.Type: GrantFiled: July 30, 2008Date of Patent: May 31, 2011Assignee: Bi-Phase Technologies, LLCInventors: Victor Vandyke, Kevin Michael Wolter, Thomas Arnold Kulenkamp
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Publication number: 20110094287Abstract: Methods, systems, and computer program products for using a reference meter to provide automated calibration for a fuel dispenser are disclosed. According to one method, first historical metering data associated with a fuel flow meter and second historical metering data associated with a reference meter are maintained within a memory. The first historical metering data is compared with the second historical metering data. It is determined whether a difference exists between the first historical metering data and the second historical metering data that can be corrected by calibration of the fuel flow meter. In response to determining that a difference exists between the first historical metering data and the second historical metering data that can be corrected by calibration of the fuel flow meter, an automated calibration of the fuel flow meter is performed.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 3, 2011Publication date: April 28, 2011Applicant: Gilbarco Inc.Inventors: Seifollah S. Nanaji, John Steve McSpadden, Gordon Wayne Johnson
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Publication number: 20110031272Abstract: A volume-based, rather than time-based, system for dispensing fluid incorporates a microprocessor-based controller, software, pump, and positive displacement flow meter. The volume being pumped and the time it takes to pump that volume is calculated and tracked by the software, giving a flow rate. This rate is then tracked by the software for any changes. Any conditional changes that occur, affecting this rate, are tracked, and if the rate becomes too excessive outside of the normal rate established at initial calibration, then an alarm or other indication is provided to the operator.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 5, 2010Publication date: February 10, 2011Applicant: KNIGHT, LLCInventors: Brian D. Comiskey, Rocklin Verespej, Sven Schmode
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Patent number: 7809473Abstract: A mass flow controller includes a thermal mass flow sensor in combination with a pressure sensor to provide a mass flow controller that is relatively insensitive to fluctuations in input pressure. The pressure sensor and thermal sensor respectively provide signals to an electronic controller indicating the measured inlet flow rate and the pressure within the dead volume. The electronic controller employs the measured pressure to compensate the measured inlet flow rate and to thereby produce a compensated measure of the outlet flow rate, which may be used to operate a mass flow controller control valve.Type: GrantFiled: December 5, 2007Date of Patent: October 5, 2010Assignee: MKS Instruments, Inc.Inventors: Ali Shajii, Nicholas Kottenstette, Jesse Ambrosnia
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Patent number: 7634378Abstract: Analyzing the pressure profile generated during a limited period of time immediately prior to the end of a liquid aspiration process and comparing the standard deviation of the residuals to a critical value to determine if the liquid was of a desired sufficient volume.Type: GrantFiled: November 30, 2007Date of Patent: December 15, 2009Assignee: Siemens Healthcare Diagnostics Inc.Inventor: Michael Kaplit
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Patent number: 7628956Abstract: The sheath flow forming device includes: a container for storing sample fluid and having a supply port for supplying the sample fluid; a second container for storing sheath fluid and having a supply port for supplying the sheath fluid; a flow cell having a sample fluid inlet for receiving sample fluid supplied from the supply port of the first container, a sheath fluid inlet for receiving the sheath fluid from the supply port of the second container, and an outlet for discharging the mixture of the sheath fluid and the sample fluid; a first pump for supplying a sheath fluid to the sheath fluid inlet; a second pump for suctioning fluid within the flow cell through the outlet of the flow cell; and a first drive source for driving the first pump and second pump.Type: GrantFiled: September 22, 2004Date of Patent: December 8, 2009Assignee: Sysmex CorporationInventor: Katsuhiko Jindo
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Patent number: 7605333Abstract: A method for adding material to an FCC unit is provided. In one embodiment, a method for adding material to an FCC unit includes providing a first vessel under low pressure containing a first material, moving the material through a first eductor to the FCC unit, and determining an amount of material moved dispensed from the vessel through the eductor.Type: GrantFiled: August 7, 2006Date of Patent: October 20, 2009Assignee: Intercat Equipment, Inc.Inventors: Eric Elliott, Martin Evans
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Publication number: 20090165529Abstract: A tool is provided that is adapted to calibrate a dispenser operative to dispense a selected granular material received from the interior of a receptacle. The tool may include a handle extending longitudinally from a first handle end to a second handle end along a longitudinal axis and a positioning element located proximately to the second handle end. The positioning element is adapted to locate the flow control member associated with the dispenser at a selected position thereby to set a desired delivery rate of the granular material. The positioning element may be formed as an elongate projection extending upwardly from a location proximate to the second handle end or as a flat blade. A set of tools is also provided such that the dispenser can be set at alternative desired delivery rates. A method of calibrating the delivery rate of a dispenser is also provided.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 9, 2009Publication date: July 2, 2009Applicant: SYNGENTA CROP PROTECTION, INC.Inventors: Douglas Arthur Sutton, Daniel Kidder
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Patent number: 7547852Abstract: A hydraulic scale for planter calibration is disclosed. The hydraulic scale includes a tube having indicia disposed thereon. The tube has a substantially closed bottom and a substantially open top. The indicia disposed on the tube include at least one scale having a zero line. The tube is configured to float substantially upright when positioned in a liquid, such that the zero line is substantially aligned with the surface of the liquid. A non-zero line portion of the scale is configured to align with the surface of the liquid when at least one of seeds and feed are placed within the tube.Type: GrantFiled: July 31, 2007Date of Patent: June 16, 2009Inventor: Maximo Sallovitz
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Publication number: 20090139300Abstract: A method of auto-calibrating a meter is provided herein. The method can include disposing a sensor within a sensor dispenser associated with a tag element wherein the tag element is configured to store a plurality of sensor-specific information as well as communicate the information to a meter. Next, the method can include placing the sensor dispenser into communication with a meter which is configured to receive and retain a sensor from the sensor dispenser, and also configured to receive the sensor-specific information from the tag element thereby allowing the meter to perform an auto-calibration procedure which is at least partially dependent upon the sensor-specific information. Similarly, a system for auto-calibrating a meter is also provided herein. Additionally, various embodiments of a meter and various embodiments a sensor dispenser are also provided herein.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 30, 2007Publication date: June 4, 2009Applicant: LIFESCAN, INC.Inventors: Jerry T. Pugh, Koon-wah Leong, Arjuna Karunaratne
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Patent number: 7533682Abstract: A system and method of flow rate compensation is provided to allow precise volume dispensing over widely varied and varying input process media pressure and flow conditions. This system utilizes empirical data of actual flow rate versus flow rate measured by a flow meter to characterize flow meter non-linearities. This data is used to generate a compensation control curve. The system controller receives flow data from a flow meter in the field and calculates pulse duration of the output of the flow meter. The compensation control curve is then used to determine the volume of process media flowing at any given time. This instantaneous volume information is added to an accumulator to determine the volume of process media dispensed. This volume is compared to a target volume. Once this target volume is reached, the flow of process media is stopped.Type: GrantFiled: February 17, 2005Date of Patent: May 19, 2009Assignee: Robertshaw Controls CompanyInventors: Bogdan Gheorghe, Philip C. Hawken
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Patent number: 7474968Abstract: A flow verifier for verifying measurement by a fluid delivery device under test (DUT) includes a chamber configured to receive a flow of the fluid from the DUT, at least one temperature sensor to provide gas temperature in the chamber, at least one pressure transducer to provide gas pressure in the chamber, and a critical flow nozzle located upstream of the chamber along a flow path of the fluid from the DUT to the chamber. The critical flow nozzle and the flow verification process are configured to maintain the flow rate of the fluid through the nozzle at the critical flow condition such that the flow rate through the nozzle is substantially constant and substantially insensitive to any variation in pressure within the chamber downstream of the nozzle.Type: GrantFiled: June 30, 2006Date of Patent: January 6, 2009Assignee: MKS Instruments, Inc.Inventors: Junhua Ding, Kaveh Zarkar, Ali Shajii, Daniel Smith
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Publication number: 20080295568Abstract: Methods, systems, and computer program products for using a reference meter to provide automated calibration for a fuel dispenser are disclosed. According to one method, first historical metering data associated with a fuel flow meter and second historical metering data associated with a reference meter are maintained within a memory. The first historical metering data is compared with the second historical metering data. It is determined whether a difference exists between the first historical metering data and the second historical metering data that can be corrected by calibration of the fuel flow meter. In response to determining that a difference exists between the first historical metering data and the second historical metering data that can be corrected by calibration of the fuel flow meter, an automated calibration of the fuel flow meter is performed.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 1, 2007Publication date: December 4, 2008Applicant: GILBARCO INC.Inventors: Seifollah S. Nanaji, John Steve McSpadden
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Publication number: 20080251137Abstract: The present invention generally provides methods and apparatus for monitoring performance of an injection valve. In one embodiment, a control signal relates to an actuator movement is monitored and correlated to performance of the injection valve.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 16, 2007Publication date: October 16, 2008Inventors: Khai Ngo, Son Nguyen, Ernesto Ulloa
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Patent number: 7401972Abstract: An on-chip chemical compound dilution system for providing dilution of a chemical compound in a microfluidic application includes at least one sample well for providing a selected chemical compound to be diluted, a dilution well for providing a diluent for diluting the chemical compound, a network of channels for carrying the chemical compound and diluent, a first syringe pump for effecting dilution, a second syringe pump, a detector and a plurality of valves for selectively controlling the flow of liquid through the channels. The dilution system may be a multiple-stage dilution system for precisely mixing a plurality of chemical compounds in a diluent. The dilution system allows for accurate calibration to compensate for variations due to manufacturing, thereby providing precise dilution ratios. The dilution system further enables flushing to allow re-use of the system with another chemical compound.Type: GrantFiled: February 15, 2005Date of Patent: July 22, 2008Assignee: Cytonome, Inc.Inventors: John R. Gilbert, Manish Deshpande
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Patent number: 7349760Abstract: A system for measuring and controlling the concentration of a chemical agent in a solution has a reaction cell for receiving a sample, a titrant dropper for releasing one or more drops of titrant into the sample, a first photosensor for sensing disruptions of light for every drop of titrant released, and a controller that communicates with the photosensor and computes the concentration of the chemical agent based on the number of disruptions of light at the photosensor. The present invention also includes a method for sensing and controlling the concentration of a chemical agent in a solution. The method includes having a sample containing the chemical agent, triggering the release of a number of drops of titrant into the sample, detecting the number of drops released into the sample, and computing the concentration of the chemical agent in the sample based on the number of drops of titrant released into the sample.Type: GrantFiled: March 13, 2002Date of Patent: March 25, 2008Assignee: Ecolab Inc.Inventors: Guang-jong Jason Wei, Tim Gutzmann, Paul Schacht, Tom Batcher
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Patent number: 7325440Abstract: A hole inspection system for a pierced container 1 for inspecting an outwardly opened hole 1a formed in a flexible container 1 for performing a proper inspection for the size of the hole 1a of the flexible pierced container 1. The flexible container 1 is pressed from outside to blow out the gas A present within the container through the hole 1a thereby to detect a jet pressure of the gas blown out through the hole 1a by the pressing operation and to determine the size of the hole 1a by comparing a detected value of the jet pressure in a predefined period while the jet pressure is rising with an upper limit pressure value corresponding to a maximum size of the hole 1a and a lower limit pressure value corresponding to a minimum size of the hole 1a.Type: GrantFiled: July 16, 2004Date of Patent: February 5, 2008Assignee: Santen Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd.Inventors: Kozo Minamitani, Hitoshi Okino
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Publication number: 20070220948Abstract: A tool is provided that is adapted to calibrate a dispenser operative to dispense a selected granular material received from the interior of a receptacle. The tool may include a handle extending longitudinally from a first handle end to a second handle end along a longitudinal axis and a positioning element located proximately to the second handle end. The positioning element is adapted to locate the flow control member associated with the dispenser at a selected position thereby to set a desired delivery rate of the granular material. The positioning element may be formed as an elongate projection extending upwardly from a location proximate to the second handle end or as a flat blade. A set of tools is also provided such that the dispenser can be set at alternative desired delivery rates. A method of calibrating the delivery rate of a dispenser is also provided.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 21, 2007Publication date: September 27, 2007Applicant: Syngenta Crop Protection, Inc.Inventors: Douglas Arthur Sutton, Daniel Kidder
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Patent number: 7266467Abstract: A method for performing system characterization in situ for a system comprising a actuator controlled by a proportional controller. The system includes a quasi-linear region characterized by a slope of the system response and by a delay in the quasi-linear region of the system. The system includes at least one dead zone (DZ).Type: GrantFiled: February 25, 2006Date of Patent: September 4, 2007Assignee: Trimble Navigation, LimitedInventor: John William Peake
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Patent number: 7177725Abstract: 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.Type: GrantFiled: February 2, 2005Date of Patent: February 13, 2007Inventors: Richard A. Nortier, Edward J. Yenni, William O. Limkemann
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Patent number: 7155319Abstract: 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.Type: GrantFiled: February 23, 2005Date of Patent: December 26, 2006Assignee: Applied Materials, Inc.Inventors: Roy C. Nangoy, Allen L. D'Ambra, Yevgeniy Rabinovich, David Z. Chen, Tao Li
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Patent number: 7114368Abstract: An apparatus for improving the procedure for quantifying the volume of liquid dispensed by a liquid-dispensing mechanism of an analytical instrument. The apparatus of this invention comprises (a) at least one weigh cup; (b) at least one standard mass; (c) at least one transducer assembly to convert a value of weight to an electrical response; and (d) at least one electronic circuit for converting the electrical response to a measurement of volume. This invention provides a method for calibrating readings of the volume of liquid dispensed by a liquid-dispensing mechanism of an analytical instruments so that absolute measurements of the volume of liquid dispensed can be obtained.Type: GrantFiled: April 8, 2003Date of Patent: October 3, 2006Assignee: Abbott LaboratoriesInventors: Kurt M. Klosterman, Ganesh Rajagopal, Larry R. Jibson, James L. Dempski, Paul A. Matuszewski, Jeffrey W. Stewart, Jeffrey R. Swanson, David M. Tipotsch, Randall E. Youngs, Noman A. Abunimeh
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Patent number: 7076330Abstract: A fraud detection system within a fuel dispenser includes the ability to measure the amount of fuel dispensed through the fuel dispenser. The measurement is compared to a value independently created representing what the amount of fuel dispensed should approximate. If the values are not comparable, an alarm may be generated to indicate that the fuel dispenser has been modified to perpetrate fraud upon the customers. In particular, a reference used in the comparison is created bearing on a flow rate of the fuel being dispensed through the fuel dispenser. The flow rate is derived from a source independent of a pulser within the fuel dispenser providing the needed authenticity.Type: GrantFiled: January 31, 2000Date of Patent: July 11, 2006Assignee: Gilbarco Inc.Inventor: Timothy E. Dickson
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Patent number: 7029928Abstract: A method of preventing the scrapping of semiconductor substrates due to improper deposition of thin films in a thin film vaporization system is disclosed. This is accomplished by providing a method of self-calibrating and testing the flow of liquid precursors in the vaporization system prior to the start of the deposition process. The vaporization of the liquid precursor in the deposition chamber and the concomitant pressure change in the chamber are correlated. This correlation is then used as a real time monitoring mechanism for self-calibrating and testing the flow of liquid precursors through the vaporization system. That the pressure change due to vaporization in the chamber is used as the key parameter, the thin film deposition is hence monitored by that parameter which directly predicts the film deposition characteristics. Consequently, each thin film run is assured of a successful run.Type: GrantFiled: November 17, 2004Date of Patent: April 18, 2006Assignee: Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing CompanyInventors: Chung-Ju Hsieh, Hsi-Wen Liao, Kai-Hsin Liu, Tsu-Kuang Hou
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Patent number: 7000450Abstract: In a method for measuring the injection quantity of injection systems, in particular for motor vehicles and in particular in production testing, an injection system injects a testing fluid into a measuring chamber. A detection device detects a movement of a piston, which at least partially defines the measuring chamber. This detection device generates a corresponding measurement signal. In order to increase the precision of the calculation of the injected testing fluid mass, the invention proposes that the pressure of the testing fluid in the measuring chamber be detected and that the measurement signal be processed taking into account the detected pressure.Type: GrantFiled: February 1, 2002Date of Patent: February 21, 2006Assignee: Robert Bosch GmbHInventors: Joachim Unger, Wolfram Von Huelsen, Hermann Bolle, Ralf Bindel, Ralf Haas, Dirk Wolf
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Patent number: 6983636Abstract: A universal calibration apparatus and method to estimate the dispense output from a low volume, non-contact, liquid dispensing systems that may be applied for every hardware configuration (e.g., tube length, orifice diameter, tip design, etc), reagent solution property and environmental condition. This same calibration technique is applied to calibrate or tune these non-contact liquid dispensing systems to dispense desired volumes (in the range of about 0.050 ?L to 50 ?L), irrespective of the hardware configuration or the solution properties. That is, the calibration technique is not dependent on any variables, but the result (the actual dispense volume) is dependant on the variable mentioned. By actuating selected pulse widths, and measuring the resulting volume, a Calibration Profile can be generated correlating the liquid volume dispensed from the orifice to the respective pulse width of the dispensing valve thereof through calibration points.Type: GrantFiled: January 27, 2003Date of Patent: January 10, 2006Assignee: Innovadyne Technologies, Inc.Inventors: James E. Johnson, Neil R. Picha, Craig M. Storms, David A. Martin
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Patent number: 6955072Abstract: A system and method for in-situ verification and calibration of flow control devices includes a first network physical layer connecting the flow control devices to a flow verification device. A controller of the flow verification device is programmed to communicate with each of the flow control devices through the first network physical layer, receive gas specific information and a transfer function from each of the flow control devices, and verify the flow of each flow control device. The controller of the flow verification device is further programmed to communicate with each of the flow control devices through the first network physical layer and, if necessary, calibrate the flow control devices. The verification and calibration of the flow control devices is preferably carried out based upon a single command provided through a tool controller connected to a second network physical layer connected to the flow control devices.Type: GrantFiled: June 25, 2003Date of Patent: October 18, 2005Assignee: MKS Instruments, Inc.Inventors: Kaveh Zarkar, Michael Frank L'Bassi, Mark James Quaratiello
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Patent number: 6938455Abstract: A grease supply confirming device confirming the supply of a grease into a bearing, according to the present invention includes a detecting member an elastic supporting member and a movable body. The movable body such as a metal spherical body is movably provided in a piping through which a grease to be supplied flows. The elastic supporting member is provided in the piping for supporting the movable body. The detecting member such as an eddy current type displacement sensor detects to see whether or not the grease is supplied in accordance with the displacement of the movable body. The grease supply confirming device further includes an abnormality judging circuit connected to the detecting member for judging the abnormality in grease supply, and an outputting portion for outputting an alarm according to the instruction from the abnormality judging circuit.Type: GrantFiled: August 26, 2002Date of Patent: September 6, 2005Assignee: NSK Ltd.Inventor: Kenji Yakura