Hydrostatic Pressure Type Patents (Class 73/299)
  • Patent number: 11946792
    Abstract: There is disclosed a sensor system for determining a fluid level comprising a first sensor comprising a contact sensor a second sensor comprising a conductive sensor and a transducer configured to determine a water level based upon pressure placed on the transducer. There is also a microprocessor in communication with the first sensor, the second sensor and the transducer, the microprocessor configured to determine from at least one of the first sensor, the second sensor and the transducer, a fluid level in a container. In one embodiment the system further comprises a memory configured to feed values to the microprocessor, wherein the values comprise at least one of a high level fluid value and a low level fluid value. In one embodiment the microprocessor is configured to read pressure levels from the transducer wherein the pressure level of the transducer is configured to estimate a fluid level in a container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 28, 2022
    Date of Patent: April 2, 2024
    Assignee: CLEAN AIR ZONE INC.
    Inventors: Serge B. Hoyda, Gregg Russell Dickinson
  • Patent number: 11935389
    Abstract: Systems and methods for monitoring intravenous (IV) fluid bags are provided. The system includes a replaceable unit comprising a sensor comprising a pressure sensor configured to measure hydrostatic pressure, an electrical connector coupling the sensor to a controller component, a cannula configurable for insertion into a fluid port of an IV fluid bag, and an IV tube coupling the sensor to an IV fluid bag via the cannula. The system further includes the controller component configured to retrieve data representative of hydrostatic pressure from the sensor and calculate remaining fluid volume, discharge rate, and flow occlusion based on the retrieved data.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 10, 2022
    Date of Patent: March 19, 2024
    Assignee: Honeywell International Inc.
    Inventors: Kuna Venkat Satya Rama Kishore, Gurudutt K K, Praneesh Kumar Yadav Kataru
  • Patent number: 11911594
    Abstract: A system for measuring drip rate may include a drip chamber device comprising an elongated body including an inner surface defining a chamber, and a drip rate measurement device. The drip chamber may be fluidly coupled to a container containing an IV fluid configured to drip droplets of the IV fluid into the chamber. The drip rate measurement device may include a housing configured to be mounted to the elongated body of the drip chamber, and a load cell transducer mounted in the elongated body and extending into the chamber. The load cell transducer may be configured to measure a weight of the droplets of the IV fluid and convert the weight into an electrical signal. The drip rate measurement device may further include a controller electrically coupled to the load cell transducer to process the electrical signal and output at least one parameter associated with the IV fluid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 30, 2020
    Date of Patent: February 27, 2024
    Assignee: CareFusion 303, Inc.
    Inventors: Niranjan Lekkala, Kanjimpuredathil Muralikrishna Menon, Thotapalli Suryakiran
  • Patent number: 11887052
    Abstract: Volume of a fluid, such as gasoline or diesel fuel, in a tank is determined by measuring the pressure of the fluid using a pressure sensor positioned proximate the bottom of the tank. The depth of the fluid in the tank is then calculated by dividing the pressure by the density of the fluid. Fluid volume is then determined mathematically or from charts given the depth as well as the size and shape of the tank. Multiple pressure readings may be taken along or near the bottom of a tank, and an average pressure determined that may be used to calculate measured volume. To maintain accuracy at different altitudes, pressure readings are preferably adjusted for atmospheric pressure using differential pressure sensors or a processor using data indicative of both pressures. Volume changes exceeding a predetermined threshold, or which are not comparable to dispensed fuel, may be flagged and alerts generated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 24, 2021
    Date of Patent: January 30, 2024
    Assignee: S1 Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: David L. Stevenson, Sarah Bones
  • Patent number: 11820221
    Abstract: Estimating a fuel consumption includes receiving a request for estimating the fuel consumption between a first time and a second time; estimating a first fuel consumption value in a first time interval using fuel-sender resistance data; estimating a second fuel consumption value in a second time interval using fuel-injected mass data, where the first time interval and the second time interval are consecutive, non-overlapping intervals; and combining at least the first fuel consumption value and the second fuel consumption value to obtain a fuel consumption value.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 29, 2021
    Date of Patent: November 21, 2023
    Assignee: Nissan North America, Inc.
    Inventors: Vikram Krishnamurthy, Timothy O'Donnell, Lawrence Rosinski
  • Patent number: 11709222
    Abstract: A method and device for controlling EM radiation from an exposed manhole around roadways. A remote field unit controller is disposed under a manhole cover proximal to a roadway, with a sensor attached to either the manhole cover, a manhole, or the remote field unit controller, providing information of at least one of a position, acceleration, direction of the manhole cover. An EM transmitter/receiver and EM emitter/absorber are disposed under the manhole cover and an EM controller communicates to the EM transmitter. When the sensor detects sufficient movement of the manhole cover, a signal is sent to the remote field unit controller to at least one of suppress, alter, and turn off EM emissions from the EM transmitter so as to prevent EM radiation from entering the roadway. The EM transmitter is at least one of a lidar, infrared, EM, and time-of-flight emitter or sensor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 22, 2021
    Date of Patent: July 25, 2023
    Assignee: HADRONEX, INC.
    Inventors: Gregory M Quist, David A Drake
  • Patent number: 11694537
    Abstract: A warning device for detecting water level in drainage well includes at least one level sensor and a transceiver. The level sensor includes an antenna and a first processing unit connected to the antenna. The first processing unit controls the antenna to transmit a signal to the transceiver as to increased fluid levels. The transceiver includes a first communication module and a second processing unit, the first communication module receives the signal and the second processing unit obtains the signal from the first communication module and determines the location of the level sensor and its urgency according to whether the signal decays or disappears because of inundation by drainage fluid. The second processing unit further sends information of the target level sensor to a terminal device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 20, 2021
    Date of Patent: July 4, 2023
    Assignees: HONGFUJIN PRECISION ELECTRONICS (ZHENGZHOU) CO., LTD., HON HAI PRECISION INDUSTRY CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Hui-Sheng Liu, Hai-Tao Xu
  • Patent number: 11629989
    Abstract: One or more techniques and/or systems are disclosed for providing level sensing of a fluid in a dispenser canister. The sensor includes a housing having a fluid cavity configured to receive a fluid therein, with the housing having an open end and an opening in a wall opposite the open end. The sensor has a diaphragm coupled to and closing the open end of the housing and a sensing device having a sensing end. The sensing device is coupled to the housing with the sensing end extending into the opening of the wall of the housing, thereby not making direct contact with the fluid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 18, 2021
    Date of Patent: April 18, 2023
    Assignee: Fluid Management, Inc.
    Inventor: Tim Patrick Hogan
  • Patent number: 11598178
    Abstract: A fluid pit safety system is disclosed to prevent drowning incidents in a fluid pit filled with a fluid. The system comprises a plurality of sensors spatially disposed adjacent the fluid pit, a perimeter detection sub-system defining a perimeter arranged around an edge of the fluid pit, and a rescue device arranged in the fluid pit. The plurality of sensors are configured to detect a change in fluid height in the fluid pit. The perimeter detection sub-system is configured to detect a disruption in the perimeter. The rescue device is configured to move towards a surface of the fluid in the fluid pit in response to the plurality of sensors detecting the change in the fluid height in the fluid pit and the perimeter detection sub-system detecting the disruption in the perimeter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 8, 2021
    Date of Patent: March 7, 2023
    Assignee: Saudi Arabian Oil Company
    Inventors: Ahmed Al-Mousa, Omar M Alhamid, Marius Neacsu
  • Patent number: 11518668
    Abstract: Keg sensors and keg sensor assemblies are disclosed. In some embodiments, the keg sensor may include a main body and a first connector attached to the main body and configured to be connected to a keg dispensing coupler. The keg dispensing coupler may be configured to be moved between a closed position and an open position; The keg sensor may additionally include a second connector attached to the main body and configured to be connected to a valve of a keg. The keg sensor may further include a sensor assembly attached to the main body and configured to detect one or more operating parameters of liquid dispensed, via the keg dispensing coupler, from the keg through the keg sensor. In some embodiments, the keg sensor assembly may include a keg sensor and a stack cage assembly. The stack cage assembly may include a cage sized to surround the keg sensor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 27, 2021
    Date of Patent: December 6, 2022
    Inventor: Hunter Caputo
  • Patent number: 11493062
    Abstract: An actuator configured to be submerged into a body of water and to activate upon achieving a particular depth. The actuator includes a housing that defines a chamber. The housing has an open end portion in which is located a piston, the piston closing the open end portion to cause the chamber to be watertight. The piston has a first side facing an inner wall of the chamber and a second side opposite the first side that is configured to face the body of water, the piston being translatable in the chamber. A column located inside the chamber has a first end coupled to the first side of the piston and a second end coupled the inner wall of the chamber, the column being configured to buckle upon a predetermined amount of force being applied to the second side of the piston to cause the piston to translate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 8, 2021
    Date of Patent: November 8, 2022
    Assignee: L3Harris Technologies, Inc.
    Inventor: Jesper Andersen
  • Patent number: 11274635
    Abstract: A system and method for monitoring liquid tanks that includes a submersible sensor within the tank below liquid surface. The system may also include a secondary sensor to determine ambient conditions, and a controller to determine when changes in liquid level are due to ambient events, or potential breach of system. A calibration rod may be used to monitor displacement of liquid in the tank and calibrate system to determine changes in height of liquid level.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 28, 2019
    Date of Patent: March 15, 2022
    Inventor: Gregory E. Young
  • Patent number: 11187568
    Abstract: The present invention provides a curb for measuring the flood depth in an urban area, more particularly, to a curb for measuring the flood depth in an urban area, which is configured to demarcate the boundary between a vehicular roadway and a pedestrian sidewalk to measure the flood depth so that the flood depth in the urban area can be measured without the necessity for additional installation of a separate structure. In particular, the present invention has an effect in that an air contact type water level gauge is installed in a first space of a main body to measure the flood depth, i.e., the level of flooding water based on the internal air pressure of a cylindrical tube so that a pressure sensor is not brought into close contact with the flooding water to prevent corrosion of the pressure sensor, thereby reducing the maintenance and repair costs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 7, 2018
    Date of Patent: November 30, 2021
    Assignee: THE REPUBLIC OF KOREA (NATIONAL DISASTER MANAGEMENT RESEARCH INSTITUTE)
    Inventors: Han Seung Lee, Jae Seung Joo, Jae Woong Cho, Chang Won Choi, Ho Seon Kang, Chang Yeon Bae, Jeong Geun Hwang
  • Patent number: 11100456
    Abstract: Volume of a fluid, such as gasoline or diesel fuel, in a tank is determined by measuring the pressure of the fluid using a pressure sensor positioned proximate the bottom of the tank. The depth of the fluid in the tank is then calculated by dividing the pressure by the density of the fluid. Fluid volume is then determined mathematically or from charts given the depth as well as the size and shape of the tank. Multiple pressure readings may be taken along or near the bottom of a tank, and an average pressure determined that may be used to calculate measured volume. To maintain accuracy at different altitudes, pressure readings are preferably adjusted for atmospheric pressure using differential pressure sensors or a processor using data indicative of both pressures. Volume changes exceeding a predetermined threshold, or which are not comparable to dispensed fuel, may be flagged and alerts generated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 31, 2017
    Date of Patent: August 24, 2021
    Assignee: S1 Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: David L. Stevenson, Sarah Bones
  • Patent number: 10901068
    Abstract: A method and device for controlling EM radiation from an exposed manhole around roadways. A remote field unit controller is disposed under a manhole cover proximal to a roadway, with a sensor attached to either the manhole cover, a manhole, or the remote field unit controller, providing information of at least one of a position, acceleration, direction of the manhole cover. An EM transmitter/receiver and EM emitter/absorber are disposed under the manhole cover and an EM controller communicates to the EM transmitter. When the sensor detects sufficient movement of the manhole cover, a signals is sent to the remote field unit controller to at least one of suppress, alter, and turn off EM emissions from the EM transmitter so as to prevent EM radiation from entering the roadway.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 14, 2018
    Date of Patent: January 26, 2021
    Assignee: SMARTCOVER SYSTEMS
    Inventors: David Drake, Gregory M. Quist
  • Patent number: 10876879
    Abstract: A aerosol-generating system includes a liquid storage portion, a liquid pressure sensor within the liquid storage portion, and a control unit that is in communication with the pressure sensor. The aerosol-generating system further includes an atmospheric pressure sensor in communication with the control unit. The atmospheric pressure sensor is configured to sense the atmospheric pressure of the environment. The control unit is configured to receive the pressure signals from the liquid pressure sensor and the atmospheric pressure sensor. The control unit is further configured to determine the fill level of the liquid aerosol-forming substrate based on a comparison of the pressure signals from the liquid pressure sensor and the atmospheric pressure sensor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 6, 2018
    Date of Patent: December 29, 2020
    Assignee: Altria Client Services LLC
    Inventors: Guillaume Colotte, Stephane Bilat
  • Patent number: 10876878
    Abstract: A liquid level monitoring system for monitoring the level of liquid in a tiltable tank, which may tilt or rotate in a tilt or rotation plane about a tilt axis. The system comprises a pair of pressure sensors comprising a first pressure sensor for sensing the pressure of the liquid in the tank at a first position located towards the bottom of a tank and a second pressure sensor for sensing the pressure of the liquid in the tank at a second position located a known pre-defined distance above the first sensing wherein the two sensing positions are located on a sensing line substantially orthogonal to and passing through a liquid surface dividing line, said liquid surface dividing line being the line along and extending past the surface of liquid in the tank whose position relative to the tank walls remains the same as the tank tilts about the tilt axis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 28, 2018
    Date of Patent: December 29, 2020
    Assignee: WESTON AEROSPACE LIMITED
    Inventor: Wojciech Konrad Kulczyk
  • Patent number: 10816424
    Abstract: A transmitter for measuring a process pressure includes a pressure sensor and a temperature sensor providing an input temperature signal. A first remote pressure sensitive diaphragm couples to the transmitter by a first capillary tube filled with a fill fluid having a density as a function of fill fluid temperature. An input circuit is operably connected to at least the pressure sensor and provides an intermediate pressure signal at least roughly representative of the process pressure. A correcting circuit is coupled to the temperature sensor and to the input circuit. The correcting circuit processes the intermediate pressure signal by compensating for the fill fluid density as a function of the temperature and provides a compensated output more closely representative of the process pressure. The correction circuit further performs an initial height determination based upon a pressure measurement made while no pressure is applied to the first diaphragm.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 21, 2018
    Date of Patent: October 27, 2020
    Assignee: ROSEMOUNT INC.
    Inventors: Paul Ryan Fadell, Scott Robert Thompson, Nathan Darrel Stokes
  • Patent number: 10564024
    Abstract: A pneumatic depth sensor system for remotely reporting on a depth of a body of fluid is provided. The system comprises a regulated source of compressed gas, a first pressure sensor upstream from a normally-closed electronic solenoid valve, a second pressure sensor downstream from the electronic solenoid valve and a bubbler outlet downstream from the second pressure sensor, the bubbler outlet for locating at a bottom of the body of fluid, the depth sensor system under control of a microprocessor, the microprocessor in electronic communication with the first and second pressure sensors and the normally-closed electronic solenoid valve, and configured to instruct the normally-closed electronic solenoid valve to be in a fully open position or a fully closed position and to rapidly change position in response to a pressure reading from the second pressure sensor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 17, 2016
    Date of Patent: February 18, 2020
    Assignee: FTS FOREST TECHNOLOGY SYSTEMS LTD
    Inventors: Philip Bartlett, Mike Argyle, Levente Busas, Roger Williams
  • Patent number: 10473508
    Abstract: A device that measures fluid level in fuel storage tanks of mining trucks resistant to rapid filling includes an externally mounted sensor, a protective metallic tube, an anchorage system, and a pressure dissipator; and a remote monitor system that controls fluid level in fuel storage tanks of mining trucks includes a device that measures fluid level in fuel storage tanks of mining trucks including an externally mounted sensor, a protective metallic tube, an anchorage system and pressure dissipator, antennas, a Web server, remote means, and a power source.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 2, 2014
    Date of Patent: November 12, 2019
    Assignee: Tarco Trazabilidad SPA
    Inventor: Pablo Andrés Gaete Maureira
  • Patent number: 10259597
    Abstract: This aircraft maintenance equipment is a fuel system leak test unit, designed to insure installation integrity of fuel system lines and hoses and to ensure that the system is free from any debris generated during the assembly and maintenance process for an aircraft. The unit is designed to check for leaks using vacuum or pressure while monitoring for fuel leaks or bubbles through a clear tube section.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 17, 2017
    Date of Patent: April 16, 2019
    Assignee: Tronair, Inc.
    Inventors: Paul Spinazze, Sherry Drake
  • Patent number: 10093103
    Abstract: A liquid discharge apparatus includes: a container divided into a first chamber and a second chamber by a dividing member, the first chamber including a discharge outlet that discharges a liquid and configured to contain the liquid, the second chamber configured to contain a fluid; a tank configured to store the fluid; a connecting portion that provides fluid communication between the tank and the second chamber; a measurement unit configured to measure an amount of the fluid supplied from the tank to the second chamber; and a controller configured to obtain an amount of the liquid contained in the first chamber based on a measurement result from the measurement unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 8, 2015
    Date of Patent: October 9, 2018
    Assignee: CANON KABUSHIKI KAISHA
    Inventors: Yoshimasa Araki, Koichi Kitakami, Tsuyoshi Arai, Yutaka Mita
  • Patent number: 9885447
    Abstract: A system for dispensing a cryogenic liquid includes a storage tank containing a supply of the cryogenic liquid and a metering chamber. A liquid inlet line is in communication with the storage tank and the metering chamber so that the metering chamber receives cryogenic liquid from the storage tank. A meter run is in communication with the metering chamber and includes a metering element, a dispensing line and a dispensing valve. A stabilizing column is positioned within the metering chamber and includes vertically spaced openings. Vertically spaced first and second pressure sensors are in communication with the interior of the stabilizing column. A controller is in communication with the metering element, the first and second pressure sensors and the dispensing valve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 25, 2013
    Date of Patent: February 6, 2018
    Assignee: Chart Inc.
    Inventors: Paul Drube, Thomas Drube
  • Patent number: 9873491
    Abstract: Wakeboat hull control systems and methods are provided to permit the accurate reproduction of a wake behind a wakeboat. The onboard wake control system receives data from a draft measuring system. Incorporation of the data from the draft measuring system permits accurate reproduction of a wake behind the wakeboat after a change in an onboard variable such as the number, weight or position of passengers, the weight or position of cargo and the position of trim tabs or amount/location of ballast.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 26, 2016
    Date of Patent: January 23, 2018
    Assignee: Skier's Choice, Inc.
    Inventor: Richard L. Hartman
  • Patent number: 9797761
    Abstract: A liquid level measurement device and method for a wastewater tank or tanks in a recreational vehicle may be implemented by attaching a visual liquid level measuring module (such as a liquid level sight or a mechanical pressure gage) to the inlet of a gate valve that is configured for attachment to the outlet of a recreational vehicle wastewater dump system. The visual liquid level measuring module is configured to entirely fit inboard of the sidewalls of the recreational vehicle and underneath the floor of the recreational vehicle. The liquid level of the wastewater tank may be measured by (a) closing the gate valve, (b) opening a shutoff valve upstream of the gate valve but downstream of the wastewater tank, and (c) reading the level of the liquid indicated by the visual liquid level indicating device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 24, 2015
    Date of Patent: October 24, 2017
    Inventor: John Vander Horst
  • Patent number: 9604237
    Abstract: A computer-implemented method and a control system are described for controlling one or more operations of a sprayer vehicle with a tilt-detection mechanism, a tank, and a tank fill-volume sensor. The tilt-detection mechanism is utilized to determine a tilt indicator. A tilt value is determined based upon the tilt indicator. A tank fill-volume indicator is determined based upon information from the tank fill-volume sensor. A tilt-corrected fill-volume of the tank is determined based upon the tilt value and the tank fill-volume indicator.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 12, 2014
    Date of Patent: March 28, 2017
    Assignee: DEERE & COMPANY
    Inventors: David A. Hanson, Richard A. Humpal, Bradley J. Hitchler, Matthew T. Martin
  • Patent number: 9488542
    Abstract: A pressure sensor (20) includes a test cell (32) and sense cell (34). The sense cell (34) includes an electrode (42) formed on a substrate (30) and a sense diaphragm (68) spaced apart from the electrode (42) to produce a sense cavity (64). The test cell (32) includes an electrode (40) formed on the substrate (30) and a test diaphragm (70) spaced apart from the electrode (40) to produce a test cavity (66). Both of the cells (32, 34) are sensitive to pressure (36). However, a critical dimension (76) of the sense diaphragm (68) is less than a critical dimension (80) of the test diaphragm (70) so that the test cell (32) has greater sensitivity (142) to pressure (36) than the sense cell (34). Parameters (100) measured at the test cell (32) are utilized to estimate a sensitivity (138) of the sense cell (34).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 11, 2015
    Date of Patent: November 8, 2016
    Assignee: Freescale Semiconductor, Inc.
    Inventors: Chad S. Dawson, Peter T. Jones
  • Patent number: 9383236
    Abstract: Systems and methods are disclosed for indicating bottoming contact between an inner wall of a fluid carrying conduit and a distal tip process measurement probe. A process device, such as a fluid flow meter, has a process measurement probe configured for insertion into the fluid carrying conduit. An insertion mechanism is coupled to the process measurement probe and configured to apply force to insert the process measurement probe into the fluid carrying conduit. A bottoming indicator is configured to provide an indication of proper bottoming of the distal tip of the process measurement probe against the inner wall of the fluid carrying conduit as a function of an insertion related force or pressure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 18, 2014
    Date of Patent: July 5, 2016
    Assignee: Dieterich Standard, Inc.
    Inventors: Alan Blaine Kempner, Nathaniel Kirk Kenyon, Darrel Francis Coleman
  • Patent number: 9366386
    Abstract: A vertically-oriented cryogenic fluid cylinder includes an inner vessel for holding cryogenic fluid, an outer vessel surrounding the inner vessel, and a liquid level gauge for indicating a liquid level within the inner vessel. The liquid level gage includes a level indicator located outside of the outer vessel, a support arm extending down into the inner vessel, a swing arm pivotably secured to the support arm and connected to the level indicator so that angular position of the swing arm provides an indication of liquid level within the inner vessel on the level indicator, and a float on the swing arm that pivots the swing arm as the liquid level rises and lowers. The support arm forms an acute angle with the central longitudinal axis of the inner vessel so that the swing arm can be longer to move over a larger portion of the length of the inner vessel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 28, 2014
    Date of Patent: June 14, 2016
    Assignee: Worthington Cylinders Corporation
    Inventors: James M. Getter, Robert E. Hrncir
  • Patent number: 9360353
    Abstract: The invention relates to a measurement device (12) for determining a fluid fill level (14) in a fuel tank (10) for a vehicle. The position of a float (18) in relation to a signal generating unit (22) which can be attached on the fuel tank (10) can hereby be converted into a signal that is correlated with the fill level (14) of the undeformed fuel tank (10). A correction device (48, 54, 56) is designed for measuring a deformation of the fuel tank (10) and is used for correcting the signal. The invention also relates to a method for determining a fluid fill level (14) in a fuel tank (10) for a vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 12, 2011
    Date of Patent: June 7, 2016
    Assignee: AUDI AG
    Inventor: Harald Hagen
  • Publication number: 20150143898
    Abstract: A pressure sensor system for determining fluid level in a tank, includes a pressure sensor constructed to exhibit a force value corresponding to a sensed force, and a computer operatively coupled to the pressure sensor. A tank containing fluid is also includes and there is a communication link between the pressure sensor and the tank, thereby allowing determination of the level of fluid in the tank by calibration and interpretation of the force value exhibited by the pressure sensor.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 26, 2014
    Publication date: May 28, 2015
    Inventor: James P. Wiebe
  • Publication number: 20150120515
    Abstract: Volume of a fluid in a tank is determined by measuring the pressure of fluid proximate to the bottom of the tank. The depth of the fluid is then determined from the pressure and density of the fluid. Fluid volume is then determined mathematically or from charts given the depth as well as the size and shape of a tank. Multiple pressure readings may be taken along the bottom of a tank, and an average pressure determined that may be used to calculate volume. Pressure readings may be taken at different heights to determine fluid density used to calculate volume. Pressure readings may be adjusted for atmospheric pressure. Volume increases or decreases exceeding a respective predetermined threshold may be flagged and alerts generated. Volume calculations may be recorded for comparing against a volume of fluid recorded as being purchased.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 30, 2014
    Publication date: April 30, 2015
    Applicant: S1 TECHNOLOGIES, INC.
    Inventors: David L. Stevenson, Sarah Bones
  • Publication number: 20150052997
    Abstract: An interface measuring device for ascertaining the height of an interface between a first phase (2; 102) of a medium with a first density and a second phase (4; 104) of a medium with a second density, comprising: a first pressure registering point (12; 112) for registering a first pressure of a medium at a first height (H1); a second pressure registering point (14; 114) for registering a second pressure of the medium at a second height (H2), an evaluation apparatus (30; 130), wherein a height separation (?H) between the first pressure registering point and the second pressure registering point is known, wherein the second height (H2) lies above a height range, in which the interface is expected, and wherein the evaluation apparatus is adapted, based on the registered pressures (p1, p2), respectively a pressure difference (?p) between the registered pressures, as well as based on a first density value and a second density value, respectively a density difference between the density values, to determine a heigh
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 19, 2014
    Publication date: February 26, 2015
    Inventor: Marc Andreas Schlachter
  • Patent number: 8925382
    Abstract: A system for measuring a volume of a liquid has a keg with a nozzle and a dip tube extending into the keg, a coupler having a gas flow path and a liquid flow path, a transducer cooperative with the gas flow path so as to measure a pressure of gas in the keg and cooperative with the liquid flow path so as to measure a pressure of the liquid at a location above the nozzle of the keg, and a controller connected to the transducer so as to measure a difference between the measured pressure of the gas and the measured pressure of the liquid. The controller converts the measured difference into a value corresponding to a volume of the liquid in the keg. The system can also be used to monitor the temperature of the liquid within the keg.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 9, 2012
    Date of Patent: January 6, 2015
    Inventors: Kevin Beal, Louis W. Apostolakis
  • Patent number: 8919195
    Abstract: An environment providing device having a test chamber; a spraying device for receiving the supply of a gas flow to spray, into the test chamber, a fluid that contains particles; a flow meter for measuring a measured value for the flow rate of the gas flow that is supplied to the spraying device; a flow rate controlling device for controlling to a prescribed value, based on the measured value, the flow rate of the gas flow that is supplied to the spraying device; a timer for measuring a time interval over which the fluid that includes the particles has been sprayed into the test chamber; and a spraying-device-controlling device for stopping the spraying of the fluid that contains the particles after spraying a prescribed quantity of particles into the test chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 4, 2012
    Date of Patent: December 30, 2014
    Assignee: AZBIL Corporation
    Inventor: Shinsuke Yamasaki
  • Publication number: 20140331990
    Abstract: The invention relates to a measuring device for measuring a level of a fluid in a container for holding a fluid, specifically a level sensor. The container is provided with a conduit for at least one of the supply and the removal of the fluid. A dynamic pressure probe, such as a pitot tube, is arranged in the conduit. The dynamic pressure probe is connected to a pressure sensor for measuring the pressure in the dynamic pressure probe. The fluid level in the container can be determined by using the measured pressure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 17, 2014
    Publication date: November 13, 2014
    Applicant: MARQUARDT MECHATRONIK GMBH
    Inventors: Andreas ZIMMER, Tobias JAUCH
  • Publication number: 20140331762
    Abstract: The sensor device serves for detecting the absence or presence of a liquid (1) at the outlet (10a) of a feed line (10) through which there can be fed a feed substance which, when exiting from the outlet, has a pressure (p) in the feed line which has a course over time with a first characteristic in the absence of the liquid and has a course over time with a second characteristic in the presence of the liquid. The sensor device includes a sensing instrument (20-23) for sensing the pressure fluctuations in the feed line (10) and evaluator (30) which is designed to assign the sensed pressure fluctuations to the first or second characteristic and to generate a corresponding signal which indicates whether the liquid (1) is absent or present at the feed line outlet (10a).
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 1, 2014
    Publication date: November 13, 2014
    Applicant: RHYTON GmbH
    Inventor: Hans Ulrich AMMANN
  • Patent number: 8800365
    Abstract: Method for registering filling potential of a waste container of a microplate washing device has a needle for aspirating liquids, a waste container, a pump for generating a partial vacuum and a pressure sensor for determining air pressure in the container, a sensor controller, and a first valve for blocking the line between the needle and the waste container. The pump and needle are connected to the container and the method includes closing the first valve, generating a partial vacuum in a test range, closing a further valve between the container and the pump, opening the first valve, triggering a partial vacuum dissipation in the container, measuring a test time for the partial vacuum dissipation in the test range, comparing the test time to a known threshold time, and deciding that the waste container is fillable or not.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 25, 2012
    Date of Patent: August 12, 2014
    Assignee: Tecan Trading AG
    Inventors: Wolfgang Streit, Juha Koota, Wolfgang Fuchs
  • Publication number: 20140196538
    Abstract: A liquid level meter includes: an exterior portion having an internal space which a liquid to be measured flows in; and a pressure sensitive portion provided inside the exterior portion and having a pressure sensitive surface; wherein the exterior has holes that it is arranged on each of a vertically lower side and a vertically upper side relative to the pressure sensitive surface, and the holes connect an inside and outside of the internal space.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 14, 2014
    Publication date: July 17, 2014
    Applicant: Seiko Epson Corporation
    Inventors: Kenta Sato, Kentaro Yoda, Hisao Motoyama
  • Publication number: 20140196537
    Abstract: A technique for measuring vapor pressure and liquid level of a volatile liquid contained in a tank. An integrated measuring apparatus sequentially measures vapor pressure and differential pressure by use of a single pressure sensor and a switching valve which switches between paths for measurement of the vapor pressure and the differential pressure. In addition, the integrated measuring apparatus includes a pressure sensor configured to sequentially measure vapor pressure and total pressure or the combination of the vapor pressure and liquid pressure; and a switching valve configured to be connected to a vapor pressure tube and a liquid pressure tube and switch between connection paths with at least one input port of the pressure sensor, wherein the vapor pressure tube is connected to an upper part of the tank and the liquid pressure tube is connected to a lower part of the tank.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 14, 2013
    Publication date: July 17, 2014
    Applicant: Auto Industrial Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Kyong M. Park
  • Publication number: 20140157890
    Abstract: Method for monitoring the amount of liquid of an extinguishing liquid container (1) of a fire-fighting apparatus. The extinguishing liquid container (1) is filled with extinguishing liquid such that a predefined volume (6) remains unfilled, the extinguishing liquid container is pressurized with a gas, e.g.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 25, 2012
    Publication date: June 12, 2014
    Applicant: Marioff Corporation OY
    Inventors: Jarkko Malinen, Klaus Gentz
  • Publication number: 20140096567
    Abstract: The device (1) comprises: a casing (2-4) in which there is clamped a diaphragm (5) which, together with a portion of the casing (2-4), defines at least one chamber (6, 7) having a variable volume; a winding (14); an interaction member (13), adapted to magnetically interact with the winding (14) as a consequence of a displacement of the diaphragm (5), in such a way that the inductance of the winding (14) varies as a function of the relative position of the interaction member (13) with respect to the winding (14), and a processing unit (17) coupled to the winding (14), in order to supply electric signals having a parameter which is variable as a function of the inductance of the winding (14) and thus as a function of the relative position of the interaction member (13).
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 11, 2012
    Publication date: April 10, 2014
    Applicant: ELBI INTERNATIONAL S.p.A.
    Inventors: Paolo Da Pont, Paolo Ravedati, Massimo Davi, Giorgio Carrer, Nicola Grieco, Francesco Palmisano, Giuseppe Tarantino
  • Patent number: 8689626
    Abstract: A pressure sensor including a body, device for receiving pressure associable with a tube connected to a fluid-filled tank of an electric household appliance, wherein the level of the fluid is to be measured. It further includes a device for emitting electric frequency signal proportional to the pressure received; a device carried aboard the body, on which a plurality of response frequency values emitted by the emitting means associated with corresponding pressure values at the pressure receiving means, were recorded. The pressure sensor is used with a pressure reading system carried by the device for receiving pressure. The pressure reading system includes two devices for reading values recorded on the pressure sensor, i.e. pressure and frequency values; and electric frequency signals. The pressure reading system further includes a processing device for interpolating the pressure value associated with every signal on the basis of the values read by the reading device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 6, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 8, 2014
    Assignee: ITW Metalflex
    Inventor: Sergio Giordano
  • Publication number: 20140033817
    Abstract: An apparatus is provided for measuring level of a process fluid in a container opening. The apparatus includes a remote seal configured to be inserted into the container through an opening and configured to receive a pressure related to the level of process fluid in the container. A capillary tube filled with a fill fluid extends from the remote seal to the opening and is configured to convey the pressure therebetween. A pressure sensor coupled to the capillary tube senses the pressure from the capillary tube and responsively determines the level of the process fluid in the container. The remote seal includes a bellows portion arranged to isolate the process fluid from the fill fluid in the capillary tube and convey the pressure therebetween.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 2, 2012
    Publication date: February 6, 2014
    Inventors: Jay Scheldorf, Gokhan Aydar, Blake Becker, Derek Poehlmann, Bruce Muske
  • Patent number: 8594954
    Abstract: Method of estimating the volume (Vtk) of a tank (1), comprising: a step of calculating the volume (Vtk) of the tank (1) by applying the law of conservation of enthalpy (H) of the gas, considering that the transfer of the checking stream of gas is adiabatic (Ttk(t1)=Ttk(t2) and Tsi(t1)=Tsi(t2)), expressing the enthalpy of the gas in the tank as a function only of the temperature Ttk(ti) of the gas and the pressure Ptk(ti) of the gas (Htk=function of (Ttk(ti); Ptk(ti)), using the perfect gas law or a Van der Waals equation of state expressing the volume of the tank Vtk(ti) (in cubic meters) only as a function of the known or previously estimated variables.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 27, 2010
    Date of Patent: November 26, 2013
    Assignee: L'Air Liquide, Societe Anonyme pour l'Etude et l'Exploitation des Procedes Georges Claude
    Inventors: Jonathan Macron, Loïc Damongeot
  • Publication number: 20130307679
    Abstract: A wading vehicle (100) having a water level sensor (114) comprising a hydrostatic pressure sensor.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 15, 2011
    Publication date: November 21, 2013
    Applicant: JAGUAR LAND ROVER LIMITED
    Inventors: Thuy-Yung Tran, Edward Hoare, Nigel Clarke
  • Patent number: 8567242
    Abstract: A pressure sensor venting system for efficiently and accurately measuring a liquid level. The pressure sensor venting system generally includes a housing, a pressure transducer within the housing, a diaphragm, a pressure passage fluidly connecting the pressure transducer and a pressurized liquid from the diaphragm, and a first vent tube that is fluidly connected to the pressure transducer opposite of the pressure passage. The distal end of the first vent tube extends outwardly from the housing and extends a distance into a second vent tube. The second vent tube is fluidly connected to liquid resistant vent that is positioned within the interior space of the liquid container and above the liquid level.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 9, 2011
    Date of Patent: October 29, 2013
    Assignee: S.J. Electro Systems, Inc.
    Inventor: Alan J. Bergum
  • Patent number: 8479572
    Abstract: There is provided a bubble column type hydrocarbon synthesis reactor which synthesizes a hydrocarbon compound by a chemical reaction of a synthesis gas including hydrogen and carbon monoxide as main components, and a slurry having solid catalyst particles suspended in liquid. The hydrocarbon synthesis reactor includes a reactor main body which accommodates the slurry, a synthesis gas supplying section which supplies the synthesis gas to the slurry; one pressure sensor which is arranged higher than the liquid level of the slurry to measure the pressure of the synthesis gas above the liquid level, another pressure sensor which is arranged lower than the liquid level of the slurry to measure the pressure of the slurry, and a liquid level detecting device which detects a liquid level position of the slurry on the basis of measurement results of the pressure sensors. A plurality of the other pressure sensors are provided at arbitrary intervals in an axial direction of the reactor main body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 26, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 9, 2013
    Assignees: Nippon Steel Engineering Co. Ltd., Japan Oil, Gas and Metals National Corporation, Inpex Corporation, Nippon Oil Corporation, Japan Petroleum Exploration Co., Ltd., Cosmo Oil Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Yasuhiro Onishi, Yuzuru Kato, Eiichi Yamada
  • Publication number: 20130145756
    Abstract: A method for determining whether an accumulator is filled to a predetermined level with a hydraulic fluid includes commanding a current to a solenoid, providing pressurized hydraulic fluid to the accumulator, setting a timer to an initial value, incrementing the timer, determining if the timer is greater than a timer threshold value, measuring a current to the solenoid if the timer is greater than the timer threshold value, calculating a modified current as a function of the measured current, the timer value, and the commanded current, comparing the modified current to a threshold, and determining that the accumulator is filled to the predetermined level if the modified current is greater than the threshold.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 8, 2011
    Publication date: June 13, 2013
    Applicant: GM GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS LLC
    Inventors: Paul G. Otanez, Shushan Bai, Vijay A. Neelakantan
  • Patent number: 8448750
    Abstract: A machine lubrication system that includes an assembly for sensing the level of lubricant in the reservoir, the reservoir including a follower that travels axially within the reservoir and substantially conforms to an inner cross-sectional dimension thereof, a magnet being attached to the follower for actuation of a plurality of magnetically actuated switches. The system may include a first and second level sensor, which may be independently connected to one or more power sources, where the first level sensor may be associated with an operator station, and the second level sensor may be associated with a remote indicator.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 26, 2007
    Date of Patent: May 28, 2013
    Assignee: Caterpillar Inc.
    Inventors: Susan J. Gaugush, Ted J. Loeffelholz, James Frances Blubaugh, Douglas D. Long