With Fluid Pressure Patents (Class 73/37)
  • Patent number: 9243829
    Abstract: Air conditioning charging hose assembly and method allows for quick, safe and reliable air conditioning system testing and charging. The assembly includes a shut-off valve positioned proximate the supply fitting to allow a technician to quickly shut-off the refrigerant gas supply. The method also allows the technician to test the vehicle air conditioning system pressure when charging as the hose assembly is connected to the air conditioning system and when disconnected from the air conditioning system, allows the technician to determine the refrigerant gas canister pressure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 3, 2014
    Date of Patent: January 26, 2016
    Inventor: E. Lynn Parnell
  • Patent number: 9186224
    Abstract: A fatigue testing system provides simultaneous cycle testing for a plurality of prosthetic devices under simulated physiological loading conditions. A plurality of sample holders containing test samples of prosthetic devices is positioned between a distribution chamber and a return fluid chamber to form an integrated test chamber. A reciprocating linear drive motor operates a rolling bellows diaphragm to cyclically pressurize fluid within the test chamber and drive the pressurized fluid through the prosthetic devices being tested. The test chamber defines a return flow conduit in fluid communication with each of the sample holders, the return fluid chamber, and the distribution chamber. Compliance chambers and throttle valves associated with each of the sample holders regulate the pressure gradient and back pressure across the prosthetic devices being tested.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 24, 2014
    Date of Patent: November 17, 2015
    Assignee: BIOMEDICAL DEVICE CONSULTANTS & LABORATORIES LLC
    Inventors: Benjamin McCloskey, Craig Weinberg, Steven Weinberg
  • Patent number: 9145754
    Abstract: A tubing hanger (1) landing in a tubular element (101), having a coupling assembly (11) for hydraulic coupling between the tubing hanger (1) and the element. A coupling element (17) moves radially between an outer coupled position and an inner non-coupled position. An actuation element (25) with a contact surface (25f) exerts an outward actuation force onto an inner actuation surface (17a) of the coupling element. The actuation element comprises two actuation sections (25x, 25y) exposed to a outward force from an actuation arrangement (27). The contact surface (25f) has a distance the actuation sections. The actuation element moves in the radial outward direction so that the movement of at least one of the two actuation sections (25x, 25y) stops after the radial movement of the contact surface (25f) stops. The contact surface (25f) movement halts as the coupling element (17) reaches the coupled position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 22, 2012
    Date of Patent: September 29, 2015
    Assignee: Aker Subsea AS
    Inventor: Robert Johansson
  • Patent number: 9128020
    Abstract: The present invention relates to devices and methods for measuring the permeability of dentin. More particularly, the invention relates to devices and methods of quickly and accurately measuring the permeability of dentin using a flow cell.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 31, 2012
    Date of Patent: September 8, 2015
    Assignee: Johnson & Johnson Comsumer Inc.
    Inventors: Paul S. Heipp, Deepak Sharma
  • Patent number: 9127550
    Abstract: Voids, cracks or other similar defects in substrates of thermal barrier coated superalloy components, such as turbine blades or vanes, are filled with resin, without need to remove substrate material surrounding the void by grinding or other processes. The resin is cured at a temperature under 200° C., eliminating the need for post void-filling heat treatment. The void-filled substrate and resin are then coated with a thermal barrier coating.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 10, 2012
    Date of Patent: September 8, 2015
    Assignee: Siemens Energy, Inc.
    Inventors: David W. Hunt, David B. Allen
  • Patent number: 9120386
    Abstract: A sensor element for a sensor device and a carbon collector includes a sensor element, in particular for energy transfer from a contact wire to a vehicle. The sensor element is formed from a fluid-sealed tube profile which can be arranged in a longitudinal recess of a carbon collector, wherein there is at least one predetermined breaking point designed on the tube profile.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 12, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 1, 2015
    Assignee: HOFFMANN & CO., ELEKTROKOHLE AG
    Inventor: Hans Rastl
  • Patent number: 9074961
    Abstract: A method for leak-testing a fuel supply system has been provided, wherein the fuel supply system comprises a fuel tank, a fuel injection valve, fuel lines between the fuel tank and the fuel valve, and a control valve controlled by a diaphragm, and wherein the diaphragm bounds a control chamber on one side, the method comprising: acting upon the portion of the fuel supply system upstream of the control valve with a predetermined pressure level, acting upon the side of the diaphragm facing away from the control chamber with a counterforce, wherein the counterforce is equal or greater to the predetermined pressure level. A device for leak-testing a fuel system according to the above method, wherein the device comprises a test pressure unit with at least one test pressure line, wherein said test pressure line is connectable to the fuel supply system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 4, 2012
    Date of Patent: July 7, 2015
    Assignee: ANDREAS STIHL AG & CO. KG
    Inventor: Arno Kinnen
  • Publication number: 20150128684
    Abstract: Methods and apparatus for accelerated wear testing of prosthetic heart valves apply non-sinusoidal pressure waveforms. The waveforms may maintain a threshold reverse pressure for a desired duration while limiting a peak reverse pressure. Apparatus may include a fluid impeller such as a bellows or a piston driven by an actuator having a position controlled by a motion control system. The apparatus may include a pressure control system comprising one or more bypass channels and bypass valves controlling a resistance of the bypass channels to fluid flow. The bypass valves may be controlled in real time.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 25, 2013
    Publication date: May 14, 2015
    Applicant: VIVITRO LABS INC.
    Inventors: Ted Hodson, Satyaprakash Karri, Scott Phillips
  • Patent number: 9021863
    Abstract: A system for measuring back pressure in open ended chemical reactor tubes is provided. The system can include automatic test heads or manual test head connected to a continuous real-time monitor and display device, a controller, a multiport manifold, and a plurality of umbilicals. Each umbilical can carry compressed air, sensor signals, and power to the test heads.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 10, 2011
    Date of Patent: May 5, 2015
    Assignee: Turnkey Automation, Ltd.
    Inventor: Shannon Jones
  • Patent number: 9021864
    Abstract: A mechanism is provided for sensing molecules. A twin-nanopore probe includes a first channel and a second channel. A first pressure-controlled reservoir is connected to the first channel to generate a positive pressure. A second pressure-controlled reservoir is connected to the second channel to generate a negative pressure. A container includes ionic solvent with molecules, and a tip of the twin-nanopore probe is submerged in the container of the ionic fluid with the molecules. The first channel, the second channel, the first pressure-controlled reservoir, and the second pressure-controlled reservoir are filled with the ionic fluid. The first pressure-controlled reservoir drives the ionic fluid out of the first channel and the second pressure-controlled reservoir draws in the ionic fluid with the molecules and solvent through the second channel. A change in magnitude of ionic current through the second nanopore of twin-nanopore probe is detected when molecules pass through the second nanopore.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 21, 2012
    Date of Patent: May 5, 2015
    Assignee: International Business Machines Corporation
    Inventor: Hongbo Peng
  • Patent number: 9021865
    Abstract: A testing apparatus and method includes a PTFE layer; placing a sorbent pad on the PTFE layer; applying contaminants to a protective material; placing the protective material adjacent to the sorbent pad with the side having contaminants opposite the sorbent pad; applying a weight to the protective material causing the protective material to contact the sorbent pad, and determining any permeation of contaminants through said protective material causing exposure on the sorbent pad to the contaminants; and measuring a level of contamination of the sorbent pad upon exposure to any contaminants which permeated the protective material. A second PTFE layer may be placed in between the weight and the protective material. Additionally, another PTFE layer may be placed in between the protective material and the sorbent pad. The protective material may include any of air impermeable materials, air permeable materials, and semi-permeable materials.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 24, 2012
    Date of Patent: May 5, 2015
    Assignee: The United States of America as Represented by the Secretary of the Army
    Inventor: Terrence G. D'Onofrio
  • Publication number: 20150090004
    Abstract: An electrical conductor includes an electrically non-conductive plate, an electrically conductive pin extending through the plate, and a frame member fitted around an outer edge of the plate. The frame member is configured to pre-load the plate with a compressive stress. In particular, the frame member may pre-load the plate with the compressive stress that is sufficiently high enough such that a sum of the compressive stress, tensile stress, and shear stress components generated in the plate under high-pressure conditions is compressive overall.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 1, 2014
    Publication date: April 2, 2015
    Applicant: OneSubsea IP UK Limited
    Inventor: Jean-Francois Noel
  • Publication number: 20150090003
    Abstract: Disclosed are a pilot operated safety and relief valve (POSRV) performance evaluation test apparatus, which can test performance evaluation of a POSRV in a structurally stable state, and cope with various sizes of a lift cylinder or a spring-loaded pilot valve, and a control system of the POSRV performance evaluation test apparatus, which can prevent an inside of the lift cylinder from being suddenly pressed and thus damaged and at the same time more precisely evaluate the performance of the POSRV.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 17, 2013
    Publication date: April 2, 2015
    Applicant: M&D CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Myeong Jin LEE, Jang Bom Chai, Ho Geun Ryu, Hoon Jang, Dong Soo Kim
  • Publication number: 20150068284
    Abstract: The present invention is aimed to improve the conventional plane-opened hydrodynamic testing device, one or more than one reverse pumping return units (201) are installed with a parallel or substantially parallel manner at the periphery of an active fluid pumping unit (101), so a part of the fluid discharged from the outlet port of the active fluid pumping unit (101) is enabled to be sucked and reversely pumped for being returned to an adjacent space defined at the fluid inlet port of the active fluid pumping unit (101), thereby structuring a semi-opened hydrodynamic testing device having reverse pumping return unit.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 6, 2013
    Publication date: March 12, 2015
    Inventor: Tai-Her YANG
  • Publication number: 20150064515
    Abstract: Pressure response devices, systems, and associated methods. The pressure response device includes a flange portion, a central portion, and an angled frustum portion provided between the flange portion and the central portion, with the angled frustum potion configured to activate upon experiencing a predetermined pressure differential. Pressure response systems may include a projection, a conductive arch, or a photo emitter configured to indicate a response to the predetermined pressure differential. Pressure response device may be a battery device, with the pressure response member configured to form part of an electrical conducting path until a predetermined pressure condition is reached.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 30, 2013
    Publication date: March 5, 2015
    Applicant: BS&B SAFETY SYSTEMS LIMITED
    Inventors: Geof Brazier, Arnold Mundt
  • Publication number: 20150052977
    Abstract: An apparatus, a closed-loop system and method for measuring the resistance of inhalation systems and/or devices are disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 5, 2014
    Publication date: February 26, 2015
    Inventors: Benoit Adamo, Scott McLean, Chad C. Smutney, John M. Polidoro, Carl R. Sahi
  • Publication number: 20150040644
    Abstract: A fatigue testing system provides simultaneous cycle testing for a plurality of prosthetic devices under simulated physiological loading conditions. A plurality of sample holders containing test samples of prosthetic devices is positioned between a distribution chamber and a return fluid chamber to form an integrated test chamber. A reciprocating linear drive motor operates a rolling bellows diaphragm to cyclically pressurize fluid within the test chamber and drive the pressurized fluid through the prosthetic devices being tested. The test chamber defines a return flow conduit in fluid communication with each of the sample holders, the return fluid chamber, and the distribution chamber. Compliance chambers and throttle valves associated with each of the sample holders regulate the pressure gradient and back pressure across the prosthetic devices being tested.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 24, 2014
    Publication date: February 12, 2015
    Inventors: Benjamin McCloskey, Craig Weinberg, Steven Weinberg
  • Publication number: 20150040643
    Abstract: A climate controlled seat test apparatus is provided. The test apparatus may have a pump arrangement configured to alter a pressure within a vicinity of a climate controlled portion of a vehicle seat. A controller may be programmed to detect airflow obstructions or losses within the climate controlled portion of the seat. The climate controlled portion may include a blower motor. The controller may detect airflow obstructions and/or losses based on a change in current consumed by the blower motor caused by the pump arrangement altering the pressure within the vicinity of the climate controlled portion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 7, 2013
    Publication date: February 12, 2015
    Applicant: Ford Global Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: David William Gaines, Anton Crainic
  • Patent number: 8950249
    Abstract: Fault detection and response systems and processes can be used for pumps, e.g., pump/motors used in hybrid vehicles. The fault detection systems determine when certain operating conditions, which may affect the proper operation of the system, occur. The response systems take appropriate action based on which fault conditions are triggered. Example fault detection systems and processes include detection systems for different types of leaks, sensor malfunctions, or operation errors.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 5, 2013
    Date of Patent: February 10, 2015
    Assignee: Eaton Corporation
    Inventors: Michael Anthony Stoner, Thomas D. Hawkins, Douglas D. Simpson
  • Publication number: 20150013432
    Abstract: A system for detecting wear in a flush valve includes at least one pressure sensor adapted to measure a water pressure within the flush valve and at least one microprocessor in communication with the at least one pressure sensor. The at least one microprocessor is configured to determine the water pressure within the flush valve measured by the at least one pressure sensor at or after a predetermined time following operation of the flush valve that is equal to or exceeding a known time required to reseal the flush valve during normal operation, compare the determined water pressure with a pressure value sufficient to reseal the flush valve during normal operation, and determine if the flush valve is worn based at least partially on the comparison. A method and apparatus is also disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 11, 2014
    Publication date: January 15, 2015
    Inventor: Shawn D. Bush
  • Publication number: 20150007637
    Abstract: In an embodiment, a hydraulic jack is provided having a first portion and a second portion. The first portion attached to a first section of a structure and the second portion attached to a second section of the structure. When a pressurized fluid is forced between the first portion and the second portion, a load is transferred to the first section and the second section by the pressure of the fluid on the first portion and the second portion. The first section and the second section are forced apart by the load, thus creating or enlarging at least one void in the structure. The pressurized fluid fills or partially fills one or more of the at least one void, thereby increasing the surface area effectively normal to the direction of the load in contact with the pressurized fluid.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 29, 2014
    Publication date: January 8, 2015
    Inventors: JOHN A. HAYES, William G. Ryan, Nicholas K. Yankopolus
  • Publication number: 20140353995
    Abstract: An abnormality detection device including an air flow path that is opened and closed by a vertical movement of a nozzle piston in a nozzle holder of a suction nozzle, an air supply path that supplies air to the air flow path, and a flow sensor that detects an amount of air flow in the air supply path. The amount of air flow in the air flow path of the nozzle holder is monitored and based on an output signal from the flow sensor a defect the vertical movement of the nozzle piston is detected.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 19, 2012
    Publication date: December 4, 2014
    Applicant: FUJI MACHINE MFG, CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Satoru Nishiyama
  • Publication number: 20140332240
    Abstract: A fire sprinkler system according to one aspect of the present disclosure includes a pipe having a first pipe portion and a second pipe portion. The first pipe portion includes a wall having a first wall thickness, and the second pipe portion includes a wall having a second wall thickness that is greater than the first wall thickness. The fire sprinkler system further includes structure coupled to the pipe and defining a sealed chamber between the structure and at least the first pipe portion, and a sensor for sensing a pressure in the sealed chamber. Example corrosion monitoring devices and methods for monitoring corrosion in pipe systems, including fire sprinkler systems, are also disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 13, 2014
    Publication date: November 13, 2014
    Inventors: Jeffrey T. Kochelek, Adam H. Hilton, Lucas E. Kirn
  • Publication number: 20140326050
    Abstract: A portable containment vessel to perform a pressure test to a test specimen includes a base skid, a ballistic outer enclosure connected to the base skid and comprising a plurality of walls, a door, and a lock to maintain the door in a closed position, a sample tray configured to support the test specimen, wherein the sample tray is operable through a doorway of the ballistic outer enclosure between a retracted position and an extended position, a containment fluid to surround the test specimen while a pressurized test fluid is applied to the test specimen, and a sensor to indicate a failure of the pressure test.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 3, 2013
    Publication date: November 6, 2014
    Applicant: FMC TECHNOLOGIES, INC.
    Inventors: Michael L. Mann, Robert P. Matson
  • Publication number: 20140309589
    Abstract: A fluid injection device includes a pump which causes fluid to fluctuate, a fluid receiving member which includes a space for receiving at least a part of the fluctuated fluid, and a penetration hole which penetrates to the space, a film-like member which is provided on the penetration hole, and a sensor which detects a change of the film-like member. Rigidity of the fluid receiving member is higher than rigidity of the film-like member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 8, 2014
    Publication date: October 16, 2014
    Applicant: SEIKO EPSON CORPORATION
    Inventors: Yoshihiko MOMOSE, Tsutomu MIYAMOTO
  • Publication number: 20140298891
    Abstract: A device monitors a blood path from a blood vessel access of a human subject through an extracorporeal blood processing apparatus and back to the blood vessel access. A pumping device in the blood path is operable to pump blood through the blood path from the blood withdrawal device to the blood return device. The monitoring device obtains pressure data from a pressure sensor arranged upstream of the pumping device in the blood path, and processes the pressure data for detection of a disruption of the blood path downstream of the pumping device, e.g. caused by VND (Venous Needle Dislodgement).
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 23, 2012
    Publication date: October 9, 2014
    Applicant: Gambro Lundia AB
    Inventors: Mattias Holmer, Bo Olde, Kristian Solem
  • Patent number: 8850870
    Abstract: A pressure transmitting device detects, through a pressure guiding tube, a pressure of a liquid, slurry, gas, or the like to be measured, wherein there are fluctuations in the pressure; where the pressure guiding tube blockage diagnosing device comprises: a rising/falling frequency detecting portion for segmenting into a plurality of continuous intervals a time series of pressure values detected by the pressure transmitting device, and for detecting, in each time interval, the rising/falling frequency of the fluctuations; and an evaluating portion for evaluating the state of blockage of the pressure guiding tube through comparing, to a specific threshold value, the rising/falling frequency of the fluctuations.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 1, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 7, 2014
    Assignee: Azbil Corporation
    Inventors: Tetsuya Tabaru, Masato Tanaka
  • Publication number: 20140294606
    Abstract: An Automatic Fuel Additive Controller and Dispenser has been disclosed. In one implementation a pump is used to purge a hydrostatic sensing tube of liquid prior to measurement.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 27, 2014
    Publication date: October 2, 2014
    Inventor: Perry Anderson
  • Publication number: 20140290341
    Abstract: Provided herein are systems and methods for detecting a compromised flow line in a laboratory instrument. In one embodiment, for example, the system includes: (1) a wash station in fluid communication with a sample probe; (2) a fluid line coupled to the wash station to withdraw fluid from the wash station and deliver the fluid to a waste tank; and (3) a vacuum transducer, coupled to the fluid line, to measure vacuum pressure per unit time within the fluid line. The vacuum pressure per unit time is then used to detect a compromised flow line (e.g., a clog, occlusion, opening, etc. in the flow line).
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 20, 2012
    Publication date: October 2, 2014
    Applicant: BECTON, DICKINSON AND COMPANY
    Inventors: Amirthaganesh Subramanian, Jeffrey Sugarman, Chiming Frank Huang
  • Publication number: 20140261172
    Abstract: A substrate liquid processing apparatus includes a substrate holding unit configured to hold and rotate a substrate; a processing liquid nozzle configured to supply a processing liquid to the substrate; a cylindrical liquid receiving cup configured to receive and recover the processing liquid scattered from the substrate; a housing configured to accommodate the substrate holding unit and the liquid receiving cup; a cup exhaust path connected to the liquid receiving cup to exhaust atmosphere inside the liquid receiving cup; a cup exhaust path pressure sensor configured to detect pressure in the cup exhaust path; a housing pressure sensor configured to detect pressure in the housing outside the liquid receiving cup; and a control unit configured to alert when a difference between a value detected by the housing pressure sensor and a value detected by the cup exhaust path pressure sensor is a predetermined determination reference value or less.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 7, 2014
    Publication date: September 18, 2014
    Applicant: Tokyo Electron Limited
    Inventor: Norihiro Ito
  • Patent number: 8833144
    Abstract: A system is provided for collecting data during vacuum molding of a composite part using a mold including an air tight, flexible membrane sealed to a tool. The system comprises a plurality of MEMS sensors coupled with the interior of the mold at different locations over the part. Each of the sensors produces signals related to a process parameter, such as pressure within the bag, that is sensed at the location of the sensor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 11, 2012
    Date of Patent: September 16, 2014
    Assignee: The Boeing Company
    Inventors: Karl M. Nelson, Kurtis S. Willden, Anoshiravan Poursartip, Malcolm D. Lane
  • Patent number: 8833143
    Abstract: A system including a hydraulic accumulator, a pressure sensor, a fluid source and a data processor to detect a pre-charge pressure is provided. The hydraulic accumulator includes first and second fluid chambers and a separator therebetween. The hydraulic accumulator has an associated pre-charge pressure. The pressure sensor is connected to the first fluid chamber. The data processor is connected to the pressure sensor. The data processor is configured to determine a first and second rate of pressure changes, and a transition pressure between the first and second rates. The approximate pre-charge pressure is determined based on the transition pressure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 22, 2012
    Date of Patent: September 16, 2014
    Assignee: Caterpillar Inc.
    Inventors: Dayao Chen, Pengfei Ma, Tonglin Shang, Bryan J. Hillman
  • Patent number: 8821614
    Abstract: The disclosure relates to a membrane testing system for individual evaluation of a plurality of planar membranes subjected to a feed gas on one side and a sweep gas on a second side. The membrane testing system provides a pressurized flow of a feed and sweep gas to each membrane testing cell in a plurality of membrane testing cells while a stream of retentate gas from each membrane testing cell is ported by a retentate multiport valve for sampling or venting, and a stream of permeate gas from each membrane testing cell is ported by a permeate multiport valve for sampling or venting. Back pressure regulators and mass flow controllers act to maintain substantially equivalent gas pressures and flow rates on each side of the planar membrane throughout a sampling cycle. A digital controller may be utilized to position the retentate and permeate multiport valves cyclically, allowing for gas sampling of different membrane cells over an extended period of time.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 28, 2012
    Date of Patent: September 2, 2014
    Assignee: U.S. Department of Energy
    Inventors: Erik J. Albenze, David P. Hopkinson, David R. Luebke
  • Publication number: 20140238109
    Abstract: An integrated hose assembly, as well as a monitoring assembly and method of its use are disclosed. The integrated hose assembly includes a hose assembly with a hose having a first conductive layer electrically connected to a nipple and a second conductive layer electrically connected to a socket. The first and second conductive layers are separated by an insulating layer. The integrated hose assembly further includes a monitoring assembly that includes a housing rotatably mounted around at least a portion of the hose assembly, a first flexibly resilient conductive lead seated within the housing and electrically contacting a first outer surface of the hose assembly such that the first flexibly resilient conductive lead is electrically connected to a nipple, and a second flexibly resilient conductive lead seated within the housing and electrically contacting a second outer surface of the hose assembly such that the second flexibly resilient conductive lead is electrically connected to a socket.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 21, 2014
    Publication date: August 28, 2014
    Applicant: Eaton Corporation
    Inventors: MICHAEL PAUL WELLS, JAMES DEAN BETSINGER
  • Patent number: 8800347
    Abstract: A tool for calibrating a non-contact tonometer (NCT) comprises a body having a mating feature configured for removably mounting the body on the nosepiece or on the measurement head of the NCT, a pressure sensor carried by the body and arranged to receive an air pulse discharged by the NCT to provide a pressure signal in response to the air pulse, and a radiation emitter carried by the body, wherein the radiation emitter provides a pseudo-applanation event when the pressure signal reaches a predetermined level that is detectable by the NCT as though an actual corneal applanation had taken place. In one embodiment, the mating feature includes a mounting orifice for receiving a portion of the nosepiece. In another embodiment, the mating feature includes a pair of mounting pins sized for receipt by a corresponding pair of mounting holes in the measurement head of the NCT.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 21, 2011
    Date of Patent: August 12, 2014
    Assignee: Reichert, Inc.
    Inventors: Russell Bonaventura, David G. Kelkenberg, David L. Beverly, Donald E. Miller, David A. Luce
  • Patent number: 8794049
    Abstract: A system is provided for real-time, continuous, and accurate monitoring of the various states of the fermentation process in a closed fermentation vessel by monitoring the pressure created by the flow of carbon dioxide that is evolved as a consequence of the fermentation activity. The carbon dioxide transits through an orifice that has a flow area sufficient to maintain pressure in a range suitable for a pressure sensor with the electrical output thereof transmitted to an instrument that records and displays the pressure data to provide state information for use in algorithms to establish pre-alert warnings or alarms and provide correction control signals to ameliorate any anomalous condition detected.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 25, 2012
    Date of Patent: August 5, 2014
    Inventors: Marci Norkin, Steven D. Colome
  • Patent number: 8791406
    Abstract: The invention provides an apparatus and method for measuring a property of a gas, such as the amount of liquid in a stream of the gas. The apparatus comprises a source of beta particles (20), a detector (23) capable of detecting beta particles, means (18) to support said source and said detector spaced apart from each other such that gas may enter the space between the source and detector and that the source is positioned to emit beta particles towards said detector; wherein said detector comprises a scintillation material in optical communication with a photodetector (26), and means (24) to physically isolate said photodetector from said gas.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 28, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 29, 2014
    Assignee: Johnson Matthey, PLC
    Inventors: Magne Kjetil Husebo, Tor Magnus Saevareide
  • Patent number: 8783091
    Abstract: Devices and methods for testing cement include: a pressure vessel with a sample container inside an interior working volume of the pressure vessel, the pressure vessel configured to supply a first pressurized fluid to control a pore pressure of a cement sample and to supply a second pressurized fluid to lateral exterior surfaces of the sample container to provide a confining pressure that can be different than the pore pressure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 28, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 22, 2014
    Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventors: David L. Meadows, Robert P. Darbe, Keith D. Pewitt
  • Patent number: 8776583
    Abstract: An in situ device for soil investigation including a probe for inserting into and advancing into the ground, the probe including: at least one dilatometer presenting at least one expandable membrane, a chamber for fluid to be fed to the dilatometer and expand the membrane, a compression/pressure regulator unit connected to the chamber and dilatometer, to generate and/or regulate the fluid pressure, a control unit for the connector and the dilatometer, electrical powering unit to power the dilatometer, compression/pressure regulator unit, control unit, and a pressure measurement unit, unit for storing pressure values, measured by the measurement unit, for the fluid fed to said dilatometer. These components all housed within the probe. The probe being a closed body without connections to the outside for feeding pressurized fluid to the dilatometer and/or for feeding control signals for the device. The chamber being the only fluid feed source for the dilatometer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 29, 2011
    Date of Patent: July 15, 2014
    Inventor: Diego Marchetti
  • Publication number: 20140190573
    Abstract: This disclosure relates to a system and method for generating a change in pressure proportional to fluid viscosity. In particular, the disclosure discusses a viscosity dependent pressure differential system. The system can comprise a first pilot stream, a second pilot stream, and a pressure sensing device that reads a differential pressure across a first junction on the first pilot stream and a second junction on the second pilot stream. The first junction is between a first section having a first predominant pressure loss characteristic, and a second section having a second predominant pressure loss characteristic. Similarly, the second junction can be between a third section having a third predominant pressure loss characteristic and a fourth section having a fourth pressure loss characteristic.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 7, 2013
    Publication date: July 10, 2014
    Inventor: Kristian Brekke
  • Patent number: 8770010
    Abstract: An integrated fluid sensor combining bubble and occlusion detection. A housing having a channel with three sides holds a tube containing a fluid flow. An ultrasonic transmitter and ultrasonic receiver retain the tube on two opposing sides. Placed between the two opposing sides is a third side containing a pressure sensor. The pressure sensor contacting the surface of the tube detects changes of pressure within the tube due to changes in fluid flow so as to detect occlusions. The restraining of the tube between the opposing ultrasonic transmitter and ultrasonic receiver confine the tube so that a resulting increase in pressure is detected by the pressure sensor. A reduction in the size of devices for detecting fluid flow or bubbles is made possible.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 29, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 8, 2014
    Assignee: Strain Measurement Devices, Inc.
    Inventor: Daniel Shapiro
  • Publication number: 20140174550
    Abstract: A method for isolating a fault or blocked work port in an electro-hydraulic system is disclosed. In one step, a system pump is set to a first predetermined pressure and a valve assembly is commanded to a center position. In another step, the center position of the valve is recorded. In one step, the valve assembly is opened to place a work port associated with the valve in fluid communication with the pump, after which a first end position of the valve, a first work port pressure, and a first pump supply pressure are recorded. In another step, the valve assembly is opened to place the work port to a tank reservoir, after which a second end position of the valve and a fluid pressure associated with the work port are recorded. The recorded and measured data can then be analyzed to identify the fault condition or blocked work port.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 23, 2013
    Publication date: June 26, 2014
    Applicant: Eaton Corporation
    Inventors: Michael Berne Rannow, Vishal Vijay Mahulkar
  • Publication number: 20140157873
    Abstract: Disclosed is a testing apparatus for an outer housing of a pump, wherein the testing apparatus includes a separation element; a first and a second closure element, wherein the first and second closure element respectively close an axial end of the outer housing in a sealing manner; a middle pressure line which is arranged in the first or the second closure element; and a bounding element, wherein the bounding element closes the outlet outside of the outer housing, and wherein a high pressure line is arranged in the bounding element. The separation element is configured and arranged in the outer housing such that the separation element bounds the outlet of the outer housing and the outer housing is divided into a first pressure region and a second pressure region, wherein the first pressure region and the second pressure region are configured as pressure regions independent from one another.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 5, 2013
    Publication date: June 12, 2014
    Applicant: Sulzer Pumpen AG
    Inventors: Paul MEUTER, Thomas WELSCHINGER, Marcelo INFORSATI
  • Patent number: 8746971
    Abstract: In a device and method for taking temperature readings on an HVAC system, a first probe is connectable in thermal communication with the HVAC system for taking a first temperature reading thereof. A second probe is connectable in thermal communication with the HVAC system for taking a second temperature reading thereof that is independent of the first temperature reading. A digital display is connectable to the first and second probes for displaying the first and second temperature readings.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 21, 2012
    Date of Patent: June 10, 2014
    Assignee: Irwin Industrial Tool Company
    Inventors: Bryan Alfano, Joseph J. Houle
  • Patent number: 8746043
    Abstract: A method for permanently monitoring pressurized pipelines and line systems, including connected loads, which carry fluid media, includes carrying out pressure measurements in different modes downstream of the transfer point between the supply device and the load connection in order to determine consumption values over predeterminable periods of time and to infer the system state. An electronically controllable shut-off valve is arranged downstream of the transfer point and a pressure sensor is arranged downstream of the valve in the direction of flow. All of the removal locations are closed and pressure is built up in the system. The shut-off valve is closed and an outlet pressure drop, which may be present, is determined over a first period of time and the initial and final pressure values are stored. The valve is opened and the consumption of water with the longest equal flow rate is set and stored as the end of commissioning.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 23, 2006
    Date of Patent: June 10, 2014
    Inventors: Stefan Windisch, Alexander Heinl
  • Publication number: 20140154097
    Abstract: In hybrid electric vehicles having increased battery storage capacity and plug-in capability, electric-only operation of significant duration is available. To supplement lubrication for the electric and mechanical components provided in a fluid circuit by an engine-driven mechanical pump, an electric pump is provided in parallel to the mechanical pump. When the electric pump is operating, a diagnostic can be performed to determine system integrity. According to one embodiment, an actual quantity provide to the circuit is determined; an expected quantity is estimated; and a fault is determined when the actual and expected quantities differ by more than a predetermined amount. The fault may indicate a leak or plug in the fluid circuit or a failure of a component in the fluid circuit.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 11, 2014
    Publication date: June 5, 2014
    Applicant: FORD GLOBAL TECHNOLOGIES, LLC
    Inventors: Allan Roy GALE, Michael W. Degner, Paul Theodore Momcilovich
  • Publication number: 20140150530
    Abstract: A sensor unit (2) comprising a pressure sensor (9) is worn by a person. A fall of the person causes a height change as well an orientation change of the pressure sensor. To enlarge the detectability of the fall the air pressure is positioned such that in a pre-fall condition the contribution of an error to the sensor's measurement is maximal. This error is caused by gravity acting on the membrane of the sensor.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 28, 2012
    Publication date: June 5, 2014
    Applicant: KONINKLIJKE PHILIPS N.V.
    Inventor: Warner Rudolph Theophile Ten Kate
  • Patent number: 8739605
    Abstract: A control system includes a switching valve control module, a pressure determination module, and a fuel system diagnostic module. The switching valve control module actuates a switching valve in a fuel system of a vehicle between a first position and a second position, the first position venting a suction side of a vacuum pump in the fuel system to an atmosphere, the second position sealing the suction side of the vacuum pump from the atmosphere. The pressure determination module determines a first pressure on the suction side of the vacuum pump when the switching valve is in the first position, and determines a second pressure on the suction side of the vacuum pump when the switching valve is in the second position. The fuel system diagnostic module selectively diagnoses a fault in the vacuum pump based on the first pressure and the second pressure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 23, 2010
    Date of Patent: June 3, 2014
    Inventors: Kurt D. McLain, William R. Cadman
  • Publication number: 20140144210
    Abstract: A pneumatic tire includes: one fastener among a pair of mechanical fasteners that are separated into two in a region of a range from a bead tip to the maximum width position of a tire at a tire inner surface; and an electronic circuit device with another fastener that is to be engaged with the one fastener, the electronic circuit device being secured to the tire inner surface by fitting the two fasteners. In the pneumatic tire with such a configuration, even in the case where the electronic circuit device is mounted on the tire inner surface and liquid such as puncture repair liquid is injected in the tire at puncture, there is no possibility of damaging the electronic circuit device due to adhesion of the liquid to the electronic circuit device such as an air pressure sensor.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 11, 2012
    Publication date: May 29, 2014
    Applicant: THE YOKOHAMA RUBBER CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Ayako Jyouza, Atsushi Tanno
  • Patent number: 8731849
    Abstract: A hydrostatic pressure testing system for hydrostatic pressure testing of pipe or other vessels. A control center may include a computer program that monitors, records, and controls the system during testing. A test fluid assembly may include a fill conduit capable of providing a test fluid to an inlet section of a vessel to be tested in response to a command from the computer program. A pressure-release safety assembly may have a vent conduit in fluid communication between an outlet section of the vessel and a safety valve. The safety valve may be in fluid communication with a bleed tank for storing an outlet flow of test fluid from the vessel. The safety valve is actuated to relieve fluid pressure in the vessel in response to a selective condition. A method of using the system to conduct hydrostatic pressure testing is also described.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 18, 2011
    Date of Patent: May 20, 2014
    Assignee: Greene's Energy Group, LLC
    Inventors: Lubbert Westra, Michael W. Breaux, Russell Richard, Jr., Christopher D. Wilson