Casing Patents (Class 73/273)
  • Patent number: 11913926
    Abstract: Various example embodiments described herein relate to a sensor assembly. The sensor assembly includes a substrate and a disk for providing parallel gas flow to a plurality of sensing dies. The substrate defines a plurality of openings and an inlet conduit. The plurality of openings is adapted to receive at least one sensing die of the plurality of sensing dies. The inlet conduit is defined between a first end of the substrate and a second end of the substrate. The first end of the substrate is adapted to receive an inflow of a gas. The disk is adapted to be positioned below the substrate so that a top portion of the disk is exposed to the second end of the inlet conduit and the disk defines a passage for the gas to uniformly flow from the second end to a sensor head of the at least one sensing die.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 4, 2019
    Date of Patent: February 27, 2024
    Assignee: HONEYWELL ANALYTICS INC.
    Inventors: Changyoung Jung, Jinkwang Cho, Sang Hoon Hur, Jae Hwan Lee
  • Patent number: 11896808
    Abstract: A smart vial adapter is capable of measuring the dose of a drug that is withdrawn from a vial, measuring the time of a dose capture event, monitoring the vial temperature, measuring the amount of motion or perturbation the vial is subjected to, capturing various other parameters that can provide additional insights associated with the drug or the amount of the dose being drawn from the vial, and communicating the recorded information to a companion application on a computer, smartphone or other device. Related methods are also disclosed and claimed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 16, 2022
    Date of Patent: February 13, 2024
    Assignee: Becton, Dickinson and Company
    Inventors: Tianqi Hang, Uzair Siddiqui
  • Patent number: 11656111
    Abstract: A flowmeter is configured to measure a flow rate of a gas flowing through a main passage. The flowmeter includes a housing and a flow rate detector. The housing is made of a resin and includes a bypass passage branched off from the main passage. The flow rate detector is disposed in the bypass passage and transmits detection signals in accordance with the flow rate of the gas flowing through the main passage. The housing includes a non-insulation portion including graphite.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 15, 2021
    Date of Patent: May 23, 2023
    Assignee: DENSO CORPORATION
    Inventors: Hajime Mashita, Junzo Yamaguchi, Shinichi Kamiya, Akihumi Kurita
  • Patent number: 11512987
    Abstract: A fluid monitoring assembly includes a conduit having a wall defining a lumen for carrying fluid. A sensor mount is integrally formed with the wall of the conduit and extends generally transverse with respect to a longitudinal axis of the conduit, the sensor mount including an aperture defining an inner surface extending to the lumen. The assembly includes a sensor configured to be removably secured within the sensor mount, the sensor having an elongate body terminating at one end thereof in a sensing portion, the elongate body having a male projection on a portion thereof and configured to rest within the inner surface of the sensor mount. The assembly further includes a housing having first and second portions connected to one another, the housing defining an interior portion configured to encapsulate the conduit, at least a portion of the elongate body of the sensor, and the sensor mount.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 13, 2021
    Date of Patent: November 29, 2022
    Assignee: Repligen Corporation
    Inventors: Michael C. Gagne, Steven V. Cates, Dean C. Richards, Scott Bendon
  • Patent number: 11389596
    Abstract: A smart vial adapter is capable of measuring the dose of a drug that is withdrawn from a vial, measuring the time of a dose capture event, monitoring the vial temperature, measuring the amount of motion or perturbation the vial is subjected to, capturing various other parameters that can provide additional insights associated with the drug or the amount of the dose being drawn from the vial, and communicating the recorded information to a companion application on a computer, smartphone or other device. Related methods are also disclosed and claimed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 31, 2018
    Date of Patent: July 19, 2022
    Assignee: Becton, Dickinson and Company
    Inventors: Tianqi Hang, Uzair Siddiqui
  • Patent number: 11215488
    Abstract: An enclosure for an ultrasonic transducer is configured for variable moisture protection. During storage and transport, the enclosure may be kept in a sealed state, which prevents entry of humidity. During operation in a wet environment (e.g., in a water meter attached to a pipe) water leaks into the enclosure very slowly, even when sealed. Accordingly, a tube is opened, allowing water molecules to be exhausted from the enclosure and absorbed by a desiccant within the water meter. In an example, a tube passes from an interior of the enclosure to an exterior of the enclosure. An end cap on the tube prevents humid air from entering the enclosure during storage and transport of the ultrasonic transducer. During operation in a humid environment, removal of the end cap allows air exchange to ventilate the enclosure and allows a desiccant outside the enclosure to absorb humidity exhausted from the enclosure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 2019
    Date of Patent: January 4, 2022
    Assignee: Itron Global SARL
    Inventors: Abbas Sabraoui, Michel Bottner, Daniel Catherin
  • Patent number: 11156489
    Abstract: A volume meter auxiliary module is configured to be assembled on a fluid volume meter. The volume meter auxiliary module includes a first assembly member and a second assembly member. The first assembly member includes a clamping structure configured to fix the first assembly member on the fluid volume meter. The second assembly member is configured to connect with the first assembly member. The second assembly member includes a casing body, a light emitter, an image-capturing piece and a cover. The casing body has a first opening and a second opening. The first opening is located at a bottom of the casing body. The light emitter is disposed inside the casing body. The image-capturing piece is disposed inside the casing body. The cover connects with the casing body and covers the second opening. The cover is rotatable relative to the casing body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 18, 2019
    Date of Patent: October 26, 2021
    Assignee: Chicony Electronics Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Ching-Chung Chen
  • Patent number: 11015962
    Abstract: A fluid monitoring assembly includes a conduit having a wall defining a lumen for carrying fluid. A sensor mount is integrally formed with the wall of the conduit and extends generally transverse with respect to a longitudinal axis of the conduit, the sensor mount including an aperture defining an inner surface extending to the lumen. The assembly includes a sensor configured to be removably secured within the sensor mount, the sensor having an elongate body terminating at one end thereof in a sensing portion, the elongate body having a male projection on a portion thereof and configured to rest within the inner surface of the sensor mount. The assembly further includes a housing having first and second portions connected to one another, the housing defining an interior portion configured to encapsulate the conduit, at least a portion of the elongate body of the sensor, and the sensor mount.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 13, 2019
    Date of Patent: May 25, 2021
    Assignee: Repligen Corporation
    Inventors: Michael C. Gagne, Steven V. Cates, Dean Richards, Scott Bendon
  • Patent number: 10712181
    Abstract: An instrument enclosure includes top and bottom sections, the bottom section having a first part fastened to a second part, and hinges hinging the top and bottom sections to enable the top section to rotate between a close positioned and an open position. When closed, the instrument enclosure defines an enclosed space suitable for receiving a field instrument. The bottom section may be fastened to a standpipe or to a bracket fastened to the standpipe. The bottom section may define an opening configured to receive the standpipe and/or an opening to receive process line tubing carrying process line signals to the field instrument. The field instrument may be affixed to an end portion of the standpipe received in the enclosed space, removably attached to an interior of the instrument enclosure, or affixed to a mounting plate attached to the standing pipe.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 13, 2018
    Date of Patent: July 14, 2020
    Inventor: Brad Faseler
  • Patent number: 10527464
    Abstract: An assembly for a vehicle includes: a top housing rotatable about a bottom housing via a hinge; a sensor positioned between the top and bottom housings; the top and bottom housings each including a triangular portion that narrows into a rectangular extension portion; the bottom housing including raised bosses defining bolt apertures; the housings including outward indentations and corresponding inward indentations.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 18, 2016
    Date of Patent: January 7, 2020
    Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: Mahmoud Yousef Ghannam, Saied Nusier, Swadad A. Carremm
  • Patent number: 10281306
    Abstract: A flow meter system is disclosed that includes a first flow sensor and first and second fluid flow conduits extending from the first flow sensor. The second fluid flow conduit may be disposed inside the first fluid flow conduit thereby forming a fluid annulus between the first and second fluid flow conduits. The first fluid flow conduit may be metal to resist a fluid pressure differential and the second fluid flow conduit may be non-metal to balance a fluid pressure across the second fluid flow conduit and attenuate noise therein. The fluid annulus may be configured to receive a fluid to balance the fluid pressure across the second fluid flow conduit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 14, 2016
    Date of Patent: May 7, 2019
    Assignee: Cameron International Corporation
    Inventors: Michael Mullin, Eddie McHugh, Don Augenstein
  • Patent number: 10018309
    Abstract: A fluid control head of a fluid controlling or fluid measuring device has a onepiece outer housing which includes a surrounding shell surface, an open face side formed by a first opening and facing the device, and a lateral bulge having a lateral, more particularly radial opening in the shell surface. The outer housing is a one-piece housing shaped by hydroforming.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 8, 2014
    Date of Patent: July 10, 2018
    Assignee: Buerkert Werke GmbH
    Inventors: Christopher Christie, Yannick Fuchs, Volker Haaf, Bertrand Koenig
  • Patent number: 9625297
    Abstract: A flow meter includes: a measuring portion having rotors and provided on a pair of shafts positioned horizontally; a sensor that measures a pressure and a temperature within a flow path of the measuring portion; a front side panel that supports front side components of the measuring portion; a front cover that covers the front side components of the measuring portion; a main substrate that is installed in the front cover and collects a signal from the sensor; and a counter displaying portion that displays the signal from the sensor outputted from the main substrate. The sensor is assembled in the tip end of a cylindrical sensor case, the sensor case is inserted into the front side panel through an insertion opening formed in the front cover, the sensor is installed within the front cover, and the sensor and the main substrate are connected to each other.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 8, 2015
    Date of Patent: April 18, 2017
    Assignee: AZBIL KIMMON CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Tomoyuki Nakayama, Jun Ishizeki
  • Patent number: 9116027
    Abstract: A flow meter comprises a flow tube, a magnetic switch and an adjustment assembly. The flow tube has two ends screwed respectively with a first fastening member and a second fastening member, and includes a jutting seat, a sleeve, a magnetic element and an elastic element inside. The magnetic switch is located on a lateral surface of the flow tube, and includes a magnetic induction member disposed inside to form magnetic induction with the magnetic element and a first gear rack. The adjustment assembly engages with the first gear rack for control. When the sleeve is pushed by liquid to generate displacement alteration, distance between the magnetic induction member and sleeve can be quickly adjusted by the adjustment assembly. In the event that the magnetic element in the sleeve exceeds the limit range of the magnetic induction member, a notice is sent to shut down electric power.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 16, 2014
    Date of Patent: August 25, 2015
    Inventor: Yao-Sung Hou
  • Publication number: 20150082880
    Abstract: A cable assembly for coupling a transducer includes a plug body having a nose section with a nose end, a tail section with a tail end opposite the nose end; and a cable restraining feature disposed proximal the tail end. In addition, the cable assembly includes a cable having a first end, a second end, a signal conductor, and a pliable fixing member. A portion of the pliable fixing member is disposed in the cable restraining feature and extends at least partially around the plug body to limit the movement of the first end of the cable relative to the plug body.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 25, 2013
    Publication date: March 26, 2015
    Inventor: Charles Robert Allen
  • Patent number: 8959996
    Abstract: A water meter casing and manufacturing process thereof are provided. The water meter casing comprises a middle casing (1), a water inlet port (2) and a water outlet port (3), which are separate parts, wherein a water inlet (4) and a water outlet (5) where the water inlet and outlet ports (2, 3) are arranged are respectively provided at the two sides of the middle casing (1), and a support ring (6) is also provided in the inner cavity of the middle casing (1). The manufacturing process of the water meter casing relates to a method of forming the water meter casing by high pressure hydraulic bulging. The manufacturing process is simple and easy to carry out, and it presents the advantage of low cost.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 16, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 24, 2015
    Assignee: Jiangxi Sanchuan Water Meter Co., Ltd
    Inventors: Caihua Song, Ming Luo, Guomin Xu
  • Patent number: 8931337
    Abstract: A fluid meter includes a totaliser having an electronic card that communicates with a remote meter reading system. The electronic card may be contained in a metal housing covered in a leakproof manner by an upper transparent panel. The totaliser may be covered by a cover which retains the upper transparent panel in a leakproof manner. The cover may be covered by a cap made from plastic material. The upper transparent panel may be made from glass and the upper transparent panel and the cover may each include an orifice to allow communication between the electronic card and antenna disposed between the cover and the cap.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 5, 2012
    Date of Patent: January 13, 2015
    Assignee: Itron France
    Inventors: Anthony Renoud, Sebastien Schwenter
  • Publication number: 20140298901
    Abstract: A tool and a retractable assembly for measuring at least one measured variable of a medium in a containment, comprising: an essentially cylindrical housing; an immersion tube, which is movable axially in the housing between a service position run out from the medium and a process position run into the medium; and an engagement apparatus secured on the housing; wherein a movable piston is provided in the engagement apparatus and at least a first position and a second position of the piston are provided. The engagement apparatus holds the immersion tube in the service position when the piston is located in the first position, especially when no energy supply is present, and the engagement apparatus holds the immersion tube in an intermediate position between the service position and the process position and prevents further movement of the immersion tube in the direction of the medium when the piston is located in the second position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 7, 2014
    Publication date: October 9, 2014
    Applicant: Endress + Hauser Conducta Gesellschaft für Mess- und Regeltechnik mbH + Co. KG
    Inventors: Ingrid Wunderlich, Thomas Pfauch, Felix Schneider
  • Publication number: 20140230540
    Abstract: The flow meter for one of a liquid and a gaseous medium comprises a casing and a measuring insert which is insertable into said casing. The measuring insert as a structural unit includes at least one first sound transducer for emitting a first sound signal into a measuring path through which the medium flows during operation and a second sound transducer for receiving the first sound signal after passing through the measuring path, the measuring path through which the medium flows during operation when the measuring insert is inserted, at least one end plate which seals a casing opening of the casing into which the measuring insert is insertable in such a way as to prevent an escape of the medium and which is provided with at least one of the two sound transducers, and at least one outer transducer cover which covers at least one of the two sound transducers on an outside of the end plate remote from the medium. A seal is arranged between the transducer cover and the end plate.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 20, 2014
    Publication date: August 21, 2014
    Applicant: Landis+Gyr GmbH
    Inventors: Thomas GÖLZHÄUSER, Peter HEROLD, Thomas ADLER, Stefan FISCHER
  • Publication number: 20140230541
    Abstract: The flow meter for one of a liquid and a gaseous medium comprises a casing and a measuring insert which is insertable into said casing. The measuring insert as a structural unit includes at least one first sound transducer for emitting a first sound signal into a measuring path through which the medium flows during operation and a second sound transducer for receiving the first sound signal after passing through the measuring path, and the measuring path through which the medium flows during operation when the measuring insert is inserted. The measuring path has an actual measuring channel comprising a measuring channel inlet opening for the medium, a measuring channel outlet opening for the medium and at least one measuring channel wall, wherein the measuring channel wall at least partly surrounds the measuring path in the direction of flow, and the casing has a casing wall, and a constriction is provided in an intermediate region between the measuring channel wall and the casing wall.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 20, 2014
    Publication date: August 21, 2014
    Applicant: Landis+Gyr GmbH
    Inventors: Peter HEROLD, Thomas GÖLZHÄUSER, Thomas ADLER, Stefan FISCHER
  • Patent number: 8756990
    Abstract: The present disclosure relates generally to flow sensors, and more particularly, to devices and methods for providing a pressure drop through a flow sensor at a given flow rate. In one illustrative embodiment, a sensor assembly includes a housing with a first flow port and a second flow port. The housing may define a fluid channel extending between the first flow port and the second flow port, with a sensor positioned in the housing and exposed to the fluid channel. The illustrative sensor may be configured to sense a measure related to the flow rate of a fluid flowing through the fluid channel. A flow restrictor may be situated in and integrally molded with at least one of the first flow port and the second flow port. The flow restrictor may be configured to accurately provide a pressure drop through the flow sensor at a given flow rate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 29, 2011
    Date of Patent: June 24, 2014
    Assignee: Honeywell International Inc.
    Inventor: Jamie Speldrich
  • Publication number: 20140109665
    Abstract: A housing arrangement for a flow meter that has at least one housing (2) and at least one display device (3) which is located on the housing (2). The maintenance effort for the flow meter is reduced by there being at least one photovoltaic cell on the housing in a manner configured and arranged surrounding the at least one display device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 28, 2013
    Publication date: April 24, 2014
    Applicant: KROHNE MESSTECHNIK GMBH
    Inventor: Holger Hollenberg
  • Publication number: 20140090464
    Abstract: The present disclosure relates to modular flow sensor assemblies and methods. The modular flow sensor assembly may include a main sensor body, a first end adapter having a first connection port configuration, and a second end adapter having a second connection port configuration. The main sensor body may include a main housing and a sensor, where the first end adapter is configured to engage the main housing and the second end adapter is configured to engage the main housing. The first end adapter and the second end adapter may be selected from a group of end adapters, wherein at least two of the end adapters has a different connection port configuration. The selected first end adapter and the selected second end adapters may have the same or different connection port configurations. The first end adapter and the second end adapter are configured to be interchangeable end adapters.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 2, 2012
    Publication date: April 3, 2014
    Applicant: HONEYWELL INTERNATIONAL INC.
    Inventors: Richard C. Sorenson, Andrew J. Milley, William Hoover, Jamie Speldrich
  • Publication number: 20140083181
    Abstract: An apparatus configured for insertion into a sensor port of a flow cell is disclosed. The apparatus includes an insert body, a sensor located in the cavity of the insert body, and an insert body holding nut and a sensor holding nut threaded to the interior surface of the sensor port.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 25, 2012
    Publication date: March 27, 2014
    Applicant: General Electric Company
    Inventors: Benjamin Edward McDonald, Toan Huu Nguyen, Mykhaylo Barsukov
  • Publication number: 20140076045
    Abstract: A frame for supporting installation of an air measurement device over the opening of a duct or vent opening in the air circulation system of a building.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 19, 2012
    Publication date: March 20, 2014
    Inventor: PIUS O. ILEOGBEN
  • Publication number: 20140060176
    Abstract: A device for detecting at least one property of a fluid medium has at least one sensor housing introducible into the fluid medium, which sensor housing has at least one channel through which the fluid medium flows and which has at least one outlet opening. The fluid medium flows out through the outlet opening after flowing through the channel. The sensor housing has at least one housing body and at least one cover. The outlet opening is situated in the cover. The housing body has at least one collar section, which engages with the outlet opening and which forms at least one part of an edge of the outlet opening.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 16, 2012
    Publication date: March 6, 2014
    Inventors: Torsten Mais, Ulrich Wagner
  • Patent number: 8613220
    Abstract: A water meter enclosure includes a non-metallic cover defining an interior cavity shaped to accept a metering device; a metal ring including threads for connection to a piping system; and an annular lip contacting a distal end of the metal ring to retain the metal ring in spatial relationship between the non-metallic cover and the annular lip.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 8, 2012
    Date of Patent: December 24, 2013
    Assignee: Mueller International, LLC
    Inventors: Marty Scott Ball, Jeremy Alan McCraven
  • Publication number: 20130319107
    Abstract: A flow meter (1) having a housing (2) and at least one measuring tube (3), the housing (2) having an internal volume and at least one pressure compensation opening (4), the internal volume surrounding the measuring tube (3), at least in part, and the pressure compensation opening (4) being closed by a closure arrangement (5) is more simply assembled and requires less maintenance due to a connection being formed between the closure arrangement (5) and the housing (2), the connection being separable by the action of an internal pressure in the internal volume on the closure arrangement (5) when a predetermined internal pressure threshold value is reached so that the closure arrangement (5) is released from the housing (2).
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 8, 2012
    Publication date: December 5, 2013
    Applicant: KROHNE AG
    Inventors: Yousif HUSSAIN, Christopher ROLPH
  • Publication number: 20130305820
    Abstract: A low-cost fluid flow meter to conveniently measure the volume of a fluid, for example water, when expelled from a faucet is disclosed. The device is simple to install and requires no user interaction or electric power to operate. The device includes a scale with markings for predetermined volumes of a fluid. A flow divider is used to redirect a small portion of the fluid flow into a separate measurement compartment. The fluid level is then registered optically and presented through light-guiding optics to the user. The measurement compartment is automatically emptied through a pressure activated reset mechanism, so that when fluid flow is turned off the meter is nulled. The device can serve as a direct replacement for many of the common measurement sets and containers used in a household for water dosage. In this setting water spoilage is reduced and water consumption awareness is increased.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 19, 2012
    Publication date: November 21, 2013
    Inventor: Oskar Lo Granstrand
  • Patent number: 8578769
    Abstract: A flow sensor and fastener assembly, is disclosed which includes at least the following modules: a sensor housing and a fastener element; wherein: the sensor housing is adapted to receive a flow-based sensor, e.g. a MEMS airflow sensor; the sensor housing includes a connection for transmitting sensing signals from a fitted flow-based sensor; the fastener element includes a head and a shank, at least part of the shank being externally threaded; the fastener element includes a bore extending through the whole length of the fastener element; and the bore is shaped at the head end of the fastener element to provide a sensor housing receiving part.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 12, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 12, 2013
    Assignee: Bae Systems PLC.
    Inventors: Martyn John Hucker, Graham Andrew Johnson, David Baker, Amir Rezai
  • Publication number: 20130291633
    Abstract: A retractable assembly, comprising: a housing; an immersion tube, which is axially movable between a service position and a process position. A first inlet facing away from the medium and a second inlet facing the medium. The immersion tube is moved from the service position to the process position by supplying the first inlet with energy, and the immersion tube is moved from the process position to the service position by supplying the second inlet with energy. A first mechanical blocking member shifts against a spring bias, and the blocking member engages in a first groove on the immersion tube. The first groove is located in the movement direction. The spring bias is so embodied that supplying the second inlet with energy releases the blocking member from the groove, whereby movement of the immersion tube from process position to service position becomes possible.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 2, 2013
    Publication date: November 7, 2013
    Applicant: Endress + Hauser Conducta Gesellschaft für Mess- und Regeltechnik mbH + Co. KG
    Inventor: Endress + Hauser Conducta Gesellschaft für Mess- und Regeltechnik mbH + Co. KG
  • Patent number: 8418567
    Abstract: A fluid visual inspection device includes a fluid visual inspection portion and one set of fastening caps. The fluid visual inspection portion includes a vane holder which has a first flange and second flange, and is coupled with a transparent duct to allow users to see vane conditions and judge whether fluid is flowing. The vane holder further has a third flange and fourth flange that have respectively an external threaded portion formed thereon screwing with the fastening caps. One end of the vane holder holds a partition to form a passage opening. Each fastening cap has one end fastened to the third or fourth flange and another end screwed with a fluid pipe. The fastening caps and the duct are not integrally formed, hence fabrication is simpler and the cost is lower and production time is shorter, and coupling of the device and fluid pipe also is easier.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 25, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 16, 2013
    Inventor: Yao-Sung Hou
  • Patent number: 8387454
    Abstract: The present invention provides a hybrid fluid flow meter pressure vessel assembly (1) that includes an interior housing (11) fabricated from plastic, and an exterior ring structure (26) fabricated from metal. Interior housing (11) has sidewalls (14) and an internal chamber (17). The sidewalls (14) of the interior housing (11) have first and second apertures (20, 23) that are each in fluid communication with the internal chamber (17). The exterior ring structure (26) encompasses at least a portion of an exterior (29) of the sidewalls (14) of the interior housing (11), and includes outwardly extending first and second conduits (38, 41) that are in respective fluid communication with the first and second apertures (20, 23) of the interior housing (11).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 9, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 5, 2013
    Assignee: Arad Ltd.
    Inventors: Shaul Margalit, Nitzan Cohen, Yoel Ben Moshe, Jerry Potter
  • Publication number: 20130031974
    Abstract: A water meter enclosure includes a non-metallic cover defining an interior cavity shaped to accept a metering device; a metal ring including threads for connection to a piping system; and an annular lip contacting a distal end of the metal ring to retain the metal ring in spatial relationship between the non-metallic cover and the annular lip.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 8, 2012
    Publication date: February 7, 2013
    Applicant: MUELLER INTERNATIONAL, LLC
    Inventor: MUELLER INTERNATIONAL, LLC
  • Patent number: 8353208
    Abstract: Plastic housings that are subjected to internal pressure and comprise a housing upper part, a housing lower part and a closure which connects both parts to one another. At the connecting point, the housing upper and lower part have a plurality of comb-like retaining columns shaped in a complementary manner with respect to one another such that the housing parts can be plugged together. The retaining columns are oriented in a direction in which tensile force between the housing upper part and the housing lower part is oriented when the housing is subjected to internal pressure. Retaining grooves which are oriented transversely to the effective direction of the tensile force are formed in two opposite surfaces of the retaining columns in each case. Retaining bodies which at least partially touch the areas formed by the retaining grooves and thus establish the connection can be introduced into the retaining grooves.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 19, 2011
    Date of Patent: January 15, 2013
    Assignee: Sensus Spectrum LLC
    Inventors: Anh Tuan Chu, Ralf Fesser
  • Publication number: 20120325016
    Abstract: A Flow Meter that can be installed on an existing pair of wires that connect an existing electric valve and its controller without the need to lay out additional electrical wiring, which comprises a hollow main body designed to house the internal components of the Flow Meter; one or more pipe clamps used to attach the main body to the existing pipe; an impeller that revolves when water flows through the pipe; an electric circuit; a circuit housing; a sensor; a sensor housing; and a cover.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 22, 2011
    Publication date: December 27, 2012
    Inventor: Ori Peled
  • Patent number: 8325050
    Abstract: A non-intrusive flow detector consists of an easily adjustable visible light optical sensor assembly, producing a spot of light, which attaches non-obstructively and non-invasively to a fluid flow meter. The spot of visible focused light requires less than one milli-amp. The sensor monitors dial movement of a least flow dial or wheel and generates an electrical signal representative of a flow through the meter. The signal is then transformed by a 10-bit A/D converter and further processed. The flow rate and consumption is displayed in suitable units on a LCD. The microprocessor can be programmed to detect extremely small flow rates. With an appropriate sample time programmed, a flow of a few drops per minute would be detected. This embodiment aims to provide an improved method and means for enabling a consumer to monitor consumption of a metered source. This embodiment can be utilized as a sprinkler alarm.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 16, 2012
    Date of Patent: December 4, 2012
    Inventor: Raymond W. Schlachter
  • Patent number: 8286481
    Abstract: A mount and housing for fluid meter components, including transducers, is directly coupled to fixation points on a pipe exterior circumference without external straps. The mount may be selectively coupled and decoupled from the pipe fixation points. One or more mounts and housings may be arrayed on a pipe exterior in modular fashion, for different metering applications. Similarly, the mount and housing interior optionally may be reconfigurable in modular fashion for orientation and alignment of one or a plurality of transducers or other components for different user applications, without the need for auxiliary alignment tools, templates, measuring instruments or other devices.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 7, 2010
    Date of Patent: October 16, 2012
    Assignee: Siemens Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventors: Daniel Roehrig, Joseph J. Wuthijaroen
  • Patent number: 8281654
    Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention generally relate to flow meters and more particularly to improved plastic water flow meters for commercial or residential use. In various embodiments, a plastic water meter is provided that may include metal threads for connecting the water meter to a water system. In particular, the plastic water meter may include at least one spud that is shaped to receive and engage a plastic spud insert, in which the plastic spud insert may include a metal ring with a threaded outer surface. The plastic spud insert may include an annular lip portion extending outwardly to discourage removal of the metal ring when the spud insert is engaged with the water meter. Furthermore, the plastic spud insert and the inner surface of the metal ring may have complementary circumferential profiles to discourage relative rotation between the metal ring and the spud insert.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 30, 2011
    Date of Patent: October 9, 2012
    Assignee: Mueller International, LLC
    Inventors: Marty Scott Ball, Jeremy Alan McCraven
  • Publication number: 20120234090
    Abstract: A flowmeter (1) comprises a housing (2, 4) delimiting a measuring chamber (10). The housing is formed of a first body (4) and second body (2) that are assembled together by a bayonet connector having a number of pairs of interconnecting securing parts (25, 25?, 25a, 26, 26?, 26a, 45, 4?, 45a). The pairs of securing parts are arranged so that the first and second bodies (2, 4) are assemblable in only one position or in a number of different positions that is smaller than the number of pairs of interconnecting securing parts.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 26, 2010
    Publication date: September 20, 2012
    Applicant: NESTEC S.A.
    Inventors: Stefan Etter, Martin Ziegler
  • Publication number: 20120234181
    Abstract: A flowmeter (1) comprises: an outermost casing (2,4) containing a measuring chamber (10); an outermost face (20) on the casing; a generator (3,36) for generating at the outermost face a signal representative of a flow through the measuring chamber; and a connection arrangement (28) for fastening the outermost casing against a PCB (50) which extends over and beyond the outermost casing and contains a sensor (51) that is located at the outermost face and that is configured to sense the signal from the generator upon connection. The connection arrangement is configured for connection against the PCB, which connection between the PCB and the casing is distinct from the sensor.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 26, 2010
    Publication date: September 20, 2012
    Applicant: NESTEC S.A.
    Inventors: Stefan Etter, Martin Ziegler
  • Patent number: 8256703
    Abstract: A highly visible tether assembly for use on parked aircraft that interconnects the pitot tube covers with the landing gear lock pin thereby assuring removal of both the covers and the lock pin as part of the aircraft preflight check list. The assembly is made of heat and environment resistant materials that avoid instrument and air craft damage during installation and residence.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 21, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 4, 2012
    Inventors: Ernest T. Jefferson, James H. Van Dis
  • Patent number: 8256076
    Abstract: A leaded piezoelectric transducer element is attached to the inside of the end surface of a closed-end cylindrical container such as a plastic cup. The outside end surface of the cup is intended for exposure to a fluid. The required components to isolate and/or resonate with the piezoelectric element are added, after which a rigid encapsulant is formed in the cup to make a single solid assembly strong enough to be clamped. The end of the cup is then thinned to yield a thin, compliant, and environmentally protecting acoustic window.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 19, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 4, 2012
    Inventor: Murray F Feller
  • Publication number: 20120192643
    Abstract: Flow sensor assemblies having increased flow range capabilities are disclosed. In one illustrative embodiment, a flow sensor assembly includes a housing with an inlet flow port, an outlet flow port, and a fluid channel extending between the inlet flow port and the outlet flow port. One or more partitions are provided in the fluid channel of the housing to define two or more fluid sub-passages. A flow sensor, for sensing a measure related to a flow rate of a fluid flowing through the fluid channel, is positioned in one of the two or more fluid sub-passages. In some cases, the cross-sectional area of each of the two or more fluid sub-passages may be substantially the same, but this is not required. The housing may be formed from a single molded part defining the inlet and outlet flow ports, at least a portion of the fluid channel, and one or more of the partitions. In this case, a top cover may be provided and mounted to the housing to define the remaining portion of the fluid channel, if desired.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 31, 2011
    Publication date: August 2, 2012
    Applicant: HONEYWELL INTERNATIONAL INC.
    Inventors: Jamie Speldrich, Lamar Floyd Ricks
  • Publication number: 20120156409
    Abstract: Plastic housings that are subjected to internal pressure and comprise a housing upper part, a housing lower part and a closure which connects both parts to one another. At the connecting point, the housing upper and lower part have a plurality of comb-like retaining columns shaped in a complementary manner with respect to one another such that the housing parts can be plugged together. The retaining columns are oriented in a direction in which tensile force between the housing upper part and the housing lower part is oriented when the housing is subjected to internal pressure. Retaining grooves which are oriented transversely to the effective direction of the tensile force are formed in two opposite surfaces of the retaining columns in each case. Retaining bodies which at least partially touch the areas formed by the retaining grooves and thus establish the connection can be introduced into the retaining grooves.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 19, 2011
    Publication date: June 21, 2012
    Inventors: Anh Tuan CHU, Ralf Fesser
  • Publication number: 20120137766
    Abstract: A water meter casing and manufacturing process thereof are provided. The water meter casing comprises a middle casing (1), a water inlet port (2) and a water outlet port (3), which are separate parts, wherein a water inlet (4) and a water outlet (5) where the water inlet and outlet ports (2, 3) are arranged are respectively provided at the two sides of the middle casing (1), and a support ring (6) is also provided in the inner cavity of the middle casing (1). The manufacturing process of the water meter casing relates to a method of forming the water meter casing by high pressure hydraulic bulging. The manufacturing process is simple and easy to carry out, and it presents the advantage of low cost.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 16, 2010
    Publication date: June 7, 2012
    Applicant: JIANGXI SANCHUAN WATER METER CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Caihua Song, Ming Luo, Guomin Xu
  • Publication number: 20120125122
    Abstract: A flowmeter for detecting gas flow rates in a pipe includes a container configured to be attached to the pipe having a channel through which the gas flows, and a plurality of recesses that extend through the container and a plurality of housings. Each recess has a housing which contains pressure in the channel. Each housing has a window that is in acoustic communication with the channel. The flowmeter includes a plurality of transducers, with one transducer of the plurality of transducers disposed in each recess. The transducers transmit ultrasonic signals into and receive ultrasonic signals from the channel through the window in the housing in which a transducer is disposed. The flowmeter includes a controller in electrical communication with the plurality of transducers which determines the gas flow rate through the channel by measuring transit times of signals transmitted by and received by the transducers.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 19, 2011
    Publication date: May 24, 2012
    Inventors: Emanuel J. Gottlieb, Donald R. Augenstein, William R. Freund, JR., Richard A. Zuckerman, Herbert Estrada, Calvin R. Hastings
  • Publication number: 20120125121
    Abstract: A flowmeter for detecting gas flow rates in a pipe. The flowmeter includes a container configured to be attached to the pipe having a channel through which the gas flows, and a plurality of recesses. Each recess has a window made of metal that is in acoustic communication with the channel. The flowmeter includes a plurality of transducers, with one transducer of the plurality of transducers disposed in each recess. The transducers transmit ultrasonic signals into and receive ultrasonic signals from the channel through the window in the housing recess in which a transducer is disposed. The flowmeter includes a controller in electrical communication with the plurality of transducers which determines the gas flow rate through the channel from signals received from the transducers. A housing for an ultrasonic transducer for a flowmeter which is inserted into a recess of a container. A method for detecting gas flow rates in a pipe. A transducer for an ultrasonic flowmeter.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 19, 2010
    Publication date: May 24, 2012
    Inventors: Emanuel J. Gottlieb, Donald R. Augenstein, William R. Freund, JR., Richard A. Zuckerman, Herbert Estrada, Calvin R. Hastings
  • Publication number: 20120125094
    Abstract: A flow sensor for measuring the flow of a gaseous or liquid medium with a sensor housing in which, between an inlet channel and an outlet channel, a flow channel extends that comprises a main channel and a measuring channel that is arranged parallel to the main channel. At least one main channel choke point is arranged in the main channel, and the measuring channel comprises a sensor element for measuring the flow. A measuring channel choke point in the measuring channel on the inlet and/or the outlet side, is arranged with the main channel choke point having at least one passage and the measuring channel choke point having a passage, both passages being of identical shape and extending parallel to each other in the flow direction.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 19, 2011
    Publication date: May 24, 2012
    Applicant: LEISTER PROCESS TECHNOLOGIES
    Inventors: Thomas WIELATH, Stefan BÜRGI
  • Publication number: 20120103084
    Abstract: An air flow measuring device includes a passage forming housing, a sensor housing, and a sensor part. An inner wall surface of the passage forming housing defines a measured passage. The passage forming housing includes a sensor attaching part. Measured air flows through the measured passage. The sensor housing is attached to the sensor attaching part. The sensor part is disposed on the sensor housing and measures a flow rate of the measured air flowing through the passage. The passage forming housing includes a guiding device for guiding the measured air, which flows along the inner wall surface of the passage forming housing on an upstream side of the sensor attaching part in a measured air flow direction, further toward a center of the passage than the inner wall surface of the passage forming housing on a downstream side of the sensor attaching part in the flow direction.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 22, 2011
    Publication date: May 3, 2012
    Applicant: DENSO CORPORATION
    Inventors: Takashi OOGA, Takashi Enomoto