Abstract: An apparatus (2) for inspecting the airtightness of a gas sensor includes an atmosphere-side jig (22) located at a base end side of a sub assembly (1) of the gas sensor, and a measurement-gas-side jig (21) located at a distal end side of the sub assembly (1). The measurement-gas-side jig (21) includes an air chamber (211), a socket (215) receiving the sub assembly (1), and a high-pressure air source (219) supplying a high-pressure air to the air chamber (211). The atmosphere-side jig (22) includes a sealed chamber (221), a socket (225) receiving the sub assembly (1), an airtightly sealing portion (220), a low-pressure air source (229) supplying the sealed chamber (221) with a pressure lower than a pressure of the high-pressure air supplied to the air chamber (211), and a sensor portion (23) leading to the sealed chamber (221).

Abstract: An inspection machine by compression for inspecting a ceramic sample (1), in which the ceramic sample (1) is disposed in a cylindrical container (8) via an elastic sheet (9), and the ceramic sample (1) is compressed by a hydrostatic-pressure-applying medium injected between the cylindrical container (8) and the elastic sheet (9). A rubber material having a thickness of 5 mm or less and a hardness of 30-50° is employed as the elastic sheet (9). Since the elastic sheet interposed was made thin and given a predetermined hardness to eliminate pressure decrease almost completely, pressurization can be conducted with high accuracy even under low pressure.

Abstract: A system for aerodynamically testing a vehicle having a front pair of wheels and a rear pair of wheels includes a surface for statically supporting the vehicle. The system additionally includes a primary source of air directed towards the vehicle. The primary source of air aerodynamically simulates conditions for the vehicle at a predetermined speed. The system further includes a first supplemental source of air directed into a flow of air generated by the primary source of air immediately behind the first pair of wheels.

Abstract: A device for the pneumatic inspection of cigarettes comprises a roller which turns about an axis of rotation and has a plurality of seats, each designed to receive a cigarette. For each seat the device has a pair of caps made of strong material, designed to connect with the ends of the cigarette in such a way that, at an inspection station, each cigarette is connected to a source of a fluid which can subject the cigarette to the action of the fluid. A pneumatic-electric pressure transducer is connected to each seat. The transducer issues a signal which depends on the action of the fluid and which indicates the state of the cigarette.

Abstract: An atomizing nozzle for use with a rewet shower or a steam box. The nozzle has first and second orifices and a pressure port which allows the pressure between the orifices to be measured. The nozzle also has a pressure port upstream of the two orifices that allows for the measuring of the regulated water pressure from an actuator attached to the atomizing unit. The measured pressures can be used to determine if either orifice is completely blocked or if one orifice is partially blocked or the other orifice is worn.

Abstract: A device which may be carried by and part of an unmanned vehicle which measures characteristics of manure of animals such as dairy cows that are milked and fed in a stable provided for them. The vehicle is supported by three driven wheels and carries a mechanism for analyzing manure which comprises a compression chamber for receiving a manure sample. A sieve is provided on one side of the chamber and a piston forces the manure sample through the sieve. By measuring the pressure required to squeeze the manure sample through the sieve, characteristics such as the fibrousness and the viscosity of the manure sample can be determined. The vehicle also carries an identification instrumentality for identifying the animal that provided the manure sample and may carry a temperature sensor and an inertia meter. It is operatively associated with a computer which registers data provided from analysis of each animal's manure sample and provides same as displayable data.

Abstract: A device which may be carried by and part of an unmanned vehicle which measures characteristics of manure of animals such as dairy cows that are milked and fed in a stable provided for them. The vehicle is supported by three driven wheels and carries a mechanism for analyzing manure which comprises a compression chamber for receiving a manure sample. A sieve is provided on one side of the chamber and a piston forces the manure sample through the sieve. By measuring the pressure required to squeeze the manure sample through the sieve, characteristics such as the fibrousness and the viscosity of the manure sample can be determined. The vehicle also carries an identification instrumentality for identifying the animal that provided the manure sample and may carry a temperature sensor and an inertia meter. It is operatively associated with a computer which registers data provided from analysis of each animal's manure sample and provides same as displayable data.

Abstract: A static pressure test fixture for use with centrifugal compressor non-contacting seals, also called dry gas seals, typically assembled and applied in cartridge form. Subject fixture consists of only three major components of simple shape for easy fabrication and easy assembly with the dry gas seal cartridge. This is done on site near the centrifugal compressor so that dry gas seal cartridges can be pressure-tested just prior to installation in the compressor or on removal from the compressor to verify their static sealing function as well as measure static leakage at different pressures. Subject fixture is also designed to rectify some high leakage conditions.

Abstract: An inspection and recording system for fluid flow testing of cooling passageways in gas turbine buckets provides readily observable visual determination of whether any blockages were formed during the manufacturing or refurbishing processes. The inspection apparatus includes a manifold block and manifold control valve mounted on a platform and adapted to engage the root end of a turbine bucket and supply liquid therethrough. The liquid exiting at the tip of the turbine bucket is visible and any blockages in the passageways will be easily discerned by the absence or paucity of liquid flow at the tip. The fluid flow test is recorded with at least one video camera to display both locally and possibly remotely the fluid flow through the article. The video images can be displayed remotely in real time over a computer network or can be stored on a suitable medium for time delayed display.

Abstract: A water-testing apparatus tests an article such as a turbine airfoil component having at least two water flow passage article inlets. The apparatus includes an apparatus body having a water inlet, and an attachment head integral with the apparatus body. The attachment head includes a holder that receives the article therein in sealing contact with an article seal, and at least two ports, each port being in registry with at least one of the at least two water flow passage article inlets. A water flow controller within the apparatus body has a controller inlet in water-flow communication with the water inlet, at least two controller outlets, each controller outlet being in water-flow communication with one of the ports of the attachment head, and a flow-control valve disposed in a water flow path between the controller inlet and the controller outlets. The flow-control valve is controllable to controllably connect a single one of the controller outlets at a time to the controller inlet.

Abstract: An air flow measurement apparatus for verifying one or more apertures in a test piece 126 by mounting the test piece in an air flow such that air flows through the aperture(s) therein. The apparatus comprises a servo pilot valve 114 for adjusting the air flow from the source 104, a pressure sensor P3A for measuring the flow and a computer for determining the effective area of the test piece 126 at a range of different pressures across the test piece, the range including a desired pressure differential. The computer continuously tracks the readings and, when sufficient data has been obtained, computes a curve fit to calculate the effective area of the test piece 126 at the exact specified pressure differential.

Abstract: For acquiring characteristic data of a pack (10), in particular of a cigarette pack, the latter is compressed between a pressure plate (26) and a bearing plate (27). The latter is connected to a load cell (28) in order to determine the applied force as a function of the distance traveled. The characteristic deformation data or change in force at a precise, constant downward movement of the pressure plate (26) yield a reproducible, characteristic image of the pack (10) in question.

Abstract: Device for studying physical properties of a solid sample (S) in the presence of fluids, at relatively high temperature and pressure. The device comprises an elongate rigid body (1) closed at the opposite ends thereof by two covers (2, 3), a flexible sheath (9) around the sample, cooperating with two end pieces (7, 8) so as to delimit, inside the rigid body, a containment vessel, injection means for displacing fluids under pressure through the sample in its sheath, measuring means for measuring various parameters of the sample and means (P) for injecting a fluid under pressure around flexible sheath (9) so as to exert a radial pressure and possibly an axial pressure around the sample, means for heating the fluid under pressure associated with at least one of the two covers (3, 4) and means including a turbine (12) for example, for homogenizing the temperature around the sheath by circulation of the fluid heated on contact with the heating means. The body is preferably made of a composite material.

Abstract: Chemical sensors for detecting the activity of a molecule or analyte of interest is provided. The chemical sensors comprise and array or plurality of sensors that are capable of interacting with a molecule of interest, wherein the interaction provides a response fingerprint. The fingerprint can be associated with a library of similar molecules of interest to determine the molecule's activity and diffusion coefficient.

Abstract: An inspection device is provided for inspecting whether the gap between the front and rear sides of a grommet is watertightly sealed. The inspection device includes a cylindrical member (10) into which electric wires (4) projected from a front end of a grommet (3) are inserted and a sealing means (11) for sealing the cylindrical member. Air is supplied into the cylindrical member (10). When the air flow stops due to pressurization of the cylindrical member (10), it is determined that the grommet (3) has passed an examination. Thus, it is possible to detect the gap between the electric wires (4) with high accuracy.

Abstract: The present invention provides a single compact fitting for air, CO2, or nitrogen pressure testing either gas piping or waste piping. Each fitting is used for gas pipes of a particular outside diameter and waste pipes of a single larger diameter. The typical plumber would have a set, for example four, of the inventive fittings available, one for each size waste pipe that is be tested. The inventive fitting couples easily to either gas fuel piping or waste piping. A single air-pressure gauge is used to test either type of piping system. The inventive fitting is not limited to waste, vent, or gas piping systems; it can also be used to couple to other piping systems. The inventive fitting, in addition to being more versatile than conventional air-pressure test fittings, is also smaller and more compact. The inventive fitting can be made from a one-piece core body or from several conventional component pieces.

Abstract: In a method for monitoring the functioning of a compressor, which charges a gas-filled accumulator chamber with a working pressure, the actual pressure prevailing in the accumulator chamber is measured and compared to a setpoint pressure. In response to a deviation in the actual pressure from the setpoint pressure, an error signal is produced. The comparison of the actual pressure and the setpoint pressure is carried out during the charging operation when the accumulator chamber is charged.

Abstract: A liquid aspiration method which includes a method for determining the quality of the aspirated sample through mathematical analysis of the pressure profile generated before, during, and after the aspiration process and comparison of the results with predetermined known values.

Abstract: A corrosion sensor for sensing corrosion in a pipeline. The sensor includes a housing and a device for joining the housing to a wall of an enclosure that receives a fluid. The sensor also includes a rupture member which extends across a portion of the housing to define a sealed chamber in the housing. The rupture member, upon rupture, provides an opening to the sealed chamber. The rupture member is formed of a material and thickness such that the rupture member will fail from corrosion before the enclosure wall will fail from corrosion. The rupture member is arranged such that fluid received in the enclosure can contact the rupture member. The sensor also includes a sensory device which is connected to the housing at the sealed chamber to signal a rupture condition of the rupture member when the sealed chamber opens.

Abstract: A method and apparatus provided for monitoring the integrity of a structure 10 disposed in an environment containing a fluid F at an ambient pressure. The structure 10 includes a skin 12 and a plurality of internal cavities 14. The method involves applying a further fluid to the cavities 14, the applied fluid being at a pressure which is marginally greater than the atmospheric ambient pressure F. The flow rate of the applied fluid is monitored for detection in a change in the flow rate. The change in flow rate is indicative of additional fluid seepage through the structure 10 providing advance warning of a failure in the integrity of the structure 10. Monitoring is achieved by passing the applied fluid through a high fluid flow impedance 28 and monitoring for a change in pressure across the impedance 28 using a transducer 30.

Abstract: A system and corresponding method for bulge testing films (e.g. thin films, coatings, layers, etc.) is provided, as well as membrane structures for use in bulge testing and improved methods of manufacturing same so that resulting membrane structures have substantially identical known geometric and responsive characteristics. Arrayed membrane structures, and corresponding methods, are provided in certain embodiments which enable bulge testing of a film(s) over a relatively large surface area via a plurality of different freestanding membrane portions. Improved measurements of film bulging or deflection are obtained by measuring deflection of a center point of a film, relative to non-deflected peripheral points on the film being tested. Furthermore, membrane structures are adhered to mounting structure in an improved manner, and opaque coatings may be applied over top of film(s) to be bulge tested so that a corresponding optical transducer can more easily detect film deflection/bulging.

Abstract: An apparatus for automatically electronically testing condoms includes an inflation tub that has an internal chamber for housing a plurality of condoms. A jug assembly has a plurality of jugs. Each of the jugs receives a condom from the inflation tub. A mandrel assembly has a plurality of mandrels. Each of the mandrels receives a condom from one of the jugs to electronically test the condom.

Abstract: A deflection compensated roll has a stationary support structure and a shell rotatably arranged around it by means of slide bearings. The shell is additionally supported on the support structure with hydraulic loading devices by which the axial profile of the shell can be controlled. In the procedure, at least the pressure acting in the main bearing elements of the slide bearings effective in oppsite directions in the nip plane is measured by conducting pressure data from a pressure space between a control valve associated with the main bearing elements and each main bearing element by means of measurement ducts outside the roll where the pressure data is passed to a pressure sensor.

Abstract: Monitoring equipment comprising a part which defines a cavity, and input means to input fluid under pressure into the cavity. Mounting means are provided on the said part to enable an engine fuel injector valve or other fluid release device to be connected to the said part and to release fluid from the cavity intermittently when the system is in use. Control means are connected to issue a triggering signal to the fluid release device to cause the latter to release fluid from the cavity. A pressure sensor is coupled to the cavity to provide a measure of the pressure within the cavity.

Abstract: A hot fill apparatus for use in the testing of hollow thermoplastic containers, the apparatus having a reverse osmosis filter system, a heater system and a fill head system. The reverse osmosis filter system removes chlorine and other particulates and contaminants from the water prior to the water entering the heater system. The heater system is designed to maintain strict temperature control of the water while maintaining a steady flow rate and pressure. The fill head system includes a manually operated spigot and an automatically operated fill head, the operations of which are mutually exclusive.

Abstract: A system 10 for continuously monitoring the integrity of a structure 14 includes a sensor pad 16 having a surface 18. The surface 18 is provided with a set of first channels 22 and interspersed second channels 24. Surface 18 is sealed onto the surface 12 of structure 14 so that the channels 22, 24 together with surface 12 form respective sets of first and second cavities 26 and 28. The first cavities 26 are placed in fluid communication with a vacuum source 101 via a third channel 30. The second cavities 28 are vented to the atmosphere via a fourth channel 34, through hole 35, and conduit 36. A high impedance 102 is placed in series between the vacuum source 101 and the first cavities 26. A differential pressure transducer 103 is connected across the high impedance 102 and monitors for change in vacuum condition between the vacuum source 101 and the vacuum in the cavities 26.

Abstract: A method of substrate temperature control for plasma processing apparatus in which a substrate which is being held on a substrate holder in a process chamber is being processed, and He gas is passed through the gap between the substrate and the substrate mounting surface during the processing of the substrate, the substrate temperature is controlled by the thermal transfer characteristics of the gas and the substrate is cooled to the prescribed temperature, and the pressure of the He gas is preset by a pressure setting part 50a, the actual pressure is measured with a pressure gauge 49, and the gas flow rate is controlled in such a way that the measured pressure becomes equal to the set pressure by a pressure control valve 46. Furthermore, the substrate temperature controllability is assessed by monitoring the gas flow rate with a substrate temperature controllability assessment part 50b.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus are disclosed for testing the integrity of a tube set used in a cycler for peritoneal dialysis comprising a closable housing for at least a portion of the tube set and an air pump for subjecting the housing to an underpressure or an overpressure, and clamps for clamping portions of the tube set passing into the housing. The method includes subjecting the housing to a first overpressure with the clamps closed whereby a first pressure leakage is observed, subjecting the housing to a second overpressure with the clamps open whereby a second pressure leakage is observed, and comparing the first and second pressure leakages so that action can be taken based upon that comparison.

Abstract: A test device and a process for determining the accuracy of positive displacement gear pumps includes hydraulic cylinders which are fluidly connected to the output fluid flow(s) from a test pump. Each outlet flow is directed to a separate hydraulic cylinder. The test pump is driven by a motor for a preset number of revolutions. The length of stroke of the piston in each hydraulic cylinder is then determined, which corresponds to the volume of fluid provided from each pump outlet during the revolution of the gears in the pump. It can then be determined if the volumetric accuracy and efficiency of the pump is within acceptable limits.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for testing a component in a fluid system in which the component operates in response to flow of fluid in the system in the vicinity of the component. A closed loop is established for the flow of fluid in the part of the system including the component. The correct operation of the component in response to the flow of fluid is checked.

Abstract: A biofouling monitor is described which has a column having an inlet and an outlet; a microorganism nutrient feed line located upstream of the inlet; and a first pressure sensor located upstream of the inlet for measuring flow pressure and a second pressure system located downstream of the outlet for measuring flow pressure. Also described is a biofouling monitor which further has a recirculation system and optionally inert packing material located in the column. A method to monitor or detect biofouling ahead of time in an aqueous system is further described.

Abstract: An automatic keyboard testing apparatus includes a pair of support arms fixed to a machine frame for supporting a keyboard to be tested therebetween. A clamping device secures the keyboard between the support arms. A test module has testing units for operating/testing pushbuttons, a knob and indictors of the keyboard. A key actuating device comprises a plurality of key depressing elements movably mounted thereto. Each key depressing element forms a pressurized air stream outlet for applying a pressurized air stream to a corresponding key of the keyboard for actuating the key. A conveyor mechanism moves the key actuating device across the keyboard for sequentially actuating the keys of the keyboard. A keyboard coupling device electrically couples the keyboard to a processor-based determination device to receive signals therefrom for determining if the tested keyboard is properly functioning.

Abstract: Device and method to measure the gap between substantially static elements with a variable reciprocal position, used to adjust the reciprocal position of said elements to obtain a desired transit gap, comprising visual recording means connected to a processor equipped with at least display means, said processor being suitable to receive the images filmed by said visual recording means and to automatically compare said images with at least a pre-selected sample mask substantially reproducing the desired gap to be obtained, said processor being suitable to display, in numerical form on appropriate interface windows, the dimensional discrepancies between the image relating to the actual transit gap defined by said elements as filmed by said means, and said pre-selected sample mask.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a sealed vessel and a method of testing air tightness of the vessel. In the sealed vessel, the vessel body and a lid are sealed with two O-rings. The sealed vessel has a hole communicating the space sandwiched by the O-rings and the outside of the sealed vessel and a hole communicating the inside and outside of the sealed vessel. In case of testing the air tightness of the inner O-ring, gaseous helium is injected into the space sandwiched by the O-rings and the gaseous helium spread into the vessel is measured. In case of testing the air tightness of the outer O-ring, the vessel is pressurized by the gaseous helium from the outside and the gaseous helium spread in the space sandwiched by the O-rings is measured.

Abstract: The impermeability of a test piece, e.g., a pipe made of concrete, clay, stoneware, etc., is tested using negative pressure air. Air in a compensation tank is maintained at negative pressure and also at a temperature that correspond to the temperature of the inside wall of the test piece. Then, the test piece, sealed on both ends, has a negative pressure is generated therein that corresponds to the negative pressure inside the compensation tank. Subsequently, the air inside the test piece is replaced with the temperature-controlled air from inside the compensation tank, and then the negative pressure inside the test piece is adjusted to a predetermined testing level. The progression of the negative pressure over a time period in the test piece is monitored. If the measured negative pressure drops below a prescribed tolerance limit, the pipe is considered too leaky.

Abstract: A method for off-line testing a polishing head used in a CMP polishing apparatus is disclosed. The method utilizes at least two sets of pressurizing/vacuuming/venting devices for the independent testing of at least two fluid chambers which may include a membrane chamber, a retaining ring chamber and an innertube chamber normally found in a CMP polishing head. The present invention further discloses an off-line testing apparatus for a chemical mechanical polishing head which includes at least two independent sets of pressurizing/vacuuming/venting devices for testing a CMP head that is equipped with at least two fluid chambers such as a membrane chamber, a retaining ring chamber and an innertube chamber. The method and apparatus can be used advantageously for testing a variety of defects in a CMP polishing head prior to the installation of the head into a CMP apparatus. The defects include leakage between the fluid chambers, loss of vacuum seal in the fluid chambers, and binding between the fluid chambers.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for determining the stretching characteristics of a polymer composition suitable for use in manufacturing a thermoplastic article, such as a bottle and preferably a bottle having PET, PEN and mixtures thereof, are provided. The method includes the steps of heating a bottle preform of the polymer composition to at least its glass transition temperature then free-blowing the preform in a manner so that the inflation pressure is varied inversely relative to the expansion of the article during at least a portion of the inflation step. An apparatus for free-blowing the thermoplastic articles in accordance with the method is also disclosed.

Abstract: A lined tubular system and method provides for the manipulation and control of annular fluids tubular and the liner. This structure allows for profiling of the exterior wall of a liner such that one or more continuous channels are provided along the length of the lined tubular system. The system may also include one or more non-crushable members or tubes between the liner's exterior surface and host tubular's interior surface. Rounded, granular particles in the annulus between liner and host may provide an alternative path for fluid flow. The particles may be uniformly or randomly distributed in the annulus.

Abstract: The permeameter embodying the invention comprises, on the one hand, a measuring head comprising two chambers opening onto two sides of the test piece, one of these chambers being connected to a measuring circuit successively comprising at least one flow meter and a pumping means capable of generating pressure or a partial vacuum in the circuit, an adjusting means being provided to maintain the circuit at a given pressure, and, on the other hand, an electronic circuit comprising plural calibrated amplifiers of which the inputs are connected to the output of the flow meter and of which the outputs are connected to the inputs of a multiplexer whose output is connected to a processor via an analog-to-digital converter. The invention applies notably to the measurement of air permeability of cigarette paper.

Abstract: A system for collecting outgassed compounds from a disc drive includes the following structure into which the disc drive fits during such an outgassing test a base portion and a top plate connected to the base portion to move between a first and second positions to clamp a pair of valves to an outer cover of the disc drive. The two valves each include a needle plunger that may be extended from the valve to penetrate the outer cover of the disc drive and create a flow path for on inert gas sweeping between the two valves through the interior of the disc drive. An inflow line connects a source of inert gas to one valve to mix the inert gas with the outgassed compounds within the interior of the disc drive. An outflow line connects the second valve to a trap containing absorbents to separate substantially all of the outgassed compounds from the inert gas. A power supply and a disc controller operate the disc drive in a realistic manner during the course of the test.

Abstract: A system is provided for detecting the presence of and confirming the correct orientation of an oil seal. The system comprises a sensor orifice, a flow regulator for regulating flow of air to the sensor orifice, a pressure regulator for regulating air pressure to the flow regulator, and an air supply means for supplying air to the pressure regulator. A vent orifice is also provided for allowing air flow to exit from the sensor orifice when the oil seal is incorrectly oriented. The system further comprises an air pressure sensor, whereby when the oil seal is correctly oriented, with its flat side blocking the sensor orifice, a back pressure of air is created in the sensor orifice and the air supply means, the back pressure detectable by the air pressure sensor to confirm presence and correct orientation of the oil seal.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for aspirating and dispensing a sample fluid. The apparatus includes a dilutor having a port coupled to a first port of a flow through pressure transducer and to a bleed valve. A second port of the flow through pressure transducer is coupled to a first port of a sample probe. The flow through pressure transducer provides transducer signals to a detector circuit. In response to the transducer signals provided thereto, the detector detects the occurrence or non-occurrence of a plurality of different events. The dilutor is operational to aspirate and dispense fluids such as air or liquid samples in order to provide accurate aspiration and dispensation of a sample fluid.

Abstract: The invention provides a method for determining the degree of partial occlusion of a conduit, comprising the steps of:a) producing a graphical plot of fluid pressure versus fluid flow rate through said conduit;b) determining the value of one or more of the following variables:(iv) the PFLA variable consisting of the area enclosed by said graphical plot;(v) the slope of the line joining the two inflection points situated at the extremities of the major axis of said graphical plot;(vi) the y-axis intercept of the line joining the two inflection points situated at the extremities of the major axis of said graphical plot;c) determining the degree of partial occlusion of said conduit by comparing one or more of the above variables, with an appropriate calibration curve, said calibration curve comprising values of the chosen variable for a conduit of the same type as the tested conduit, at predetermined known degrees of occlusion.

Abstract: A method of verifying sample volume quantifies the fluid volume aspirated and verifies sample uniformity by detecting the presence of foam or clots in the sample. After aspiration, a pressure sensor is used to measure the vacuum needed to hold up the column of fluid in the probe tip. By knowing the geometry of the probe tip, the vacuum can be converted to a sample weight and volume, based on sample densities. Non-ideal conditions, such as foam on the surface of the fluid or a clot in the fluid, result in a sample volume much lighter, in the case of foam, or much greater, in the case of a clot, than anticipated. The method also determines the elapsed time of the aspiration. Foamy samples result in aspiration times shorter than normal. Clotted samples result in aspiration times longer than normal. Additionally, a determination can be made as to whether an error condition occurred.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for measuring the mass transport properties of pos materials. The apparatus is a permeation or diffusion cell that comprises two outer portions with longitudinal channels therein, two clamping plates with openings therein, two flow inlets and two flow outlets in fluid communication with such outer portion channels, which cell retains a sample of porous material during measurement procedures. In one embodiment, the apparatus is configured for measuring pure diffusion transport properties of the sample of porous material. In another embodiment, the apparatus is configured for measuring the diffusion and convection transport properties of the sample of porous material. In a further embodiment, the apparatus is configured for measuring the pure convection transport properties of the sample of porous material.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for leak testing a first and a second cavity of a part. A fixture is provided for engaging and individually sealing the cavities of the part. Pressurized fluid from a pressure source is introduced into each of the cavities. The first cavity is allowed to stabilize and its leak rate is measured using a pressure-measuring device. The first cavity is then vented. Upon stabilization of the second cavity, the leak rate thereof is similarly measured. The second cavity is then also vented. The leak rates are then evaluated to determine if a leak is present in either of the cavities.

Abstract: A feeding monitor system provides data responsive to a human or animal subject sucking on a nipple or other outlet connected to a supply of feeding fluid stored in a reservoir. A hollow chamber provided in between the reservoir and the outlet includes a pressure sensor and/or a fluid flow meter to provide electronic monitoring signals. These signals can be amplified or otherwise conditioned for display, transmission or storage, e.g. in digital form. The invention has wide application, including without limitation use in a neo-natal intensive care environment for diagnosis and screening of disease and disability, assessment of different feeding systems including nipple characteristics, gauging strength and oropharyngeal function, and evaluating response to therapy for feeding difficulties of infants.

Abstract: An improved door closure indicator is provided. The indicator operates on pressure levels read within a pressurized chamber rather than from proximity switches coupled between the chamber and the door. If the door seals to the chamber, pressure within the chamber will quickly change, and the change will be read on a pressure sensor indicative of the door closure. According to one example, the chamber can comprise a vacuum chamber and the pressure sensor can be a vacuum monitor. Once vacuum is detected, it is determined with more absolutism that the door is actually closed rather than having to rely upon switch operation and/or alignment of the door activation mechanism to proximity switches arranged on the chamber housing.

Abstract: The invention relates to a device for checking for tightness a closure or a connecting weld provided in a flexible fluid-filled hose, which device comprises two clamping members slidable relative to each other, forming in an inserted position a profile with at least one clamping space and an expansion space, as well as folding means, the arrangement being such that at least one hose portion can be folded and clamped in the at least one clamping space, so that the fluid present in the at least one hose portion is pressed to another hose portion including the closure or connecting weld to be checked, which other hose portion can expand in the expansion space.

Abstract: A sewage structure in the form of a drain, inspection shaft or the like, consists particularly of one or several hollow concrete with at least one connection for a sewage pipe. The inventive sewage structure is provided at its inner wall with a contacting form region for supporting a test seal in a fluid-tight test position.